The present invention relates to a solar cooking apparatus, comprising: a first solar reflector; a second solar reflector; a solar collection element; and a solar collection element holder, wherein the first solar reflector and the second solar reflector are concave, and symmetrically arranged and aligned with a solar collection element axis, the reflectors having a up to a 360 range of motion around a plane perpendicular to the solar collection element axis, and focusing radiation at the solar collection element, which rapidly heats when the first and/or second solar reflectors are in an opened position, the first and second solar reflectors shield the solar collector when in a closed position. The solar cooking apparatus is adjustable and, in some embodiments, portable.

The present invention relates to a solar cooking apparatus, comprising: a first solar reflector; a second solar reflector; a solar collection element; and a solar collection element holder, wherein the first solar reflector and the second solar reflector are concave, and symmetrically arranged and aligned with a solar collection element axis, the reflectors having a up to a 360 range of motion around a plane perpendicular to the solar collection element axis, and focusing radiation at the solar collection element, which rapidly heats when the first and/or second solar reflectors are in an opened position, the first and second solar reflectors shield the solar collector when in a closed position. The solar cooking apparatus is adjustable and, in some embodiments, portable.

A solar collector housing that is opened and closed without tools includes structure for accommodating temperature-related expansion and contraction of a polymer absorber housed within the collector. The housing includes a transparent cover, a frame for holding the transparent cover, and a base. The cover, frame and base collectively define a hollow interior within which the polymer absorber is positioned. A plurality of latches is secured to an exterior of the frame. The frame and base are pivotally connected to one another when the latches are open so that the collector housing can be opened. The housing cannot be opened when the latches are closed. A pair of variable gate closure components are positioned in slots formed in a second end of the collector and enable the polymer absorber to expand and contract without placing stress on the absorber tubes.

A solar collector housing that is opened and closed without tools includes structure for accommodating temperature-related expansion and contraction of a polymer absorber housed within the collector. The housing includes a transparent cover, a frame for holding the transparent cover, and a base. The cover, frame and base collectively define a hollow interior within which the polymer absorber is positioned. A plurality of latches is secured to an exterior of the frame. The frame and base are pivotally connected to one another when the latches are open so that the collector housing can be opened. The housing cannot be opened when the latches are closed. A pair of variable gate closure components are positioned in slots formed in a second end of the collector and enable the polymer absorber to expand and contract without placing stress on the absorber tubes.

A method for improving the efficiency of a solar heating system based on absorbing heat from solar radiation into the outer surface of a concrete wall. The heat transfer device makes use of a fluid in a tube system to transfer heat from the outside of the wall to the inside of the wall. The inside wall is then used to heat air that is passed over it, and that air is then used to heat up a heat storage system.

Systems and methods for falling particle receivers are disclosed that include shield or deflector structures around the receiver aperture to reduce wind effects and/or heat losses from the falling particles. External and internal structures are disclosed that can be tailored to reduce particle, thermal, and radiative losses from within the cavity receiver due to external wind and the falling particles that are irradiated within the receiver. Structures of varying shapes, sizes, and composition (transparent, reflective) are described.

Systems and methods for falling particle receivers are disclosed that include shield or deflector structures around the receiver aperture to reduce wind effects and/or heat losses from the falling particles. External and internal structures are disclosed that can be tailored to reduce particle, thermal, and radiative losses from within the cavity receiver due to external wind and the falling particles that are irradiated within the receiver. Structures of varying shapes, sizes, and composition (transparent, reflective) are described.

A factory for manufacturing useful products while orbiting is space uses concentrated solar energy, high vacuum, and the low temperatures available in a space environment. Gyroscopic forces from rotating machinery are carefully controlled. Liquids, gases, and solid minerals are separated from asteroid and lunar regolith resources.

The invention relates to enclosed solar parabolic trough reflector systems for thermal heat generation that can ultimately be used in various applications. The system includes a modular dual arch building design with a transparent building envelope and a reflector assembly connected within the building through a bearing assembly. The system is particularly suited for solar heat collection in harsh environment.