suncatcher

suncatcher


© stirling energy systems, inc.

stirling energy systems (SES) and tessera solar collaborated to design an advanced solar power collection
dish called the suncatcher. the units  use precision mirrors arranged in a parabolic dish to focus the sun’s
rays onto a receiver, which then transmits the heat into an engine enclosed in hydrogen gas. as the gas
heats and cools, it applies pressure to the engine’s pistons to produce mechanical power. the power is
used to drive a generator and can be routed elsewhere. the new units have a higher efficiency than
first-generation models with additional cost reduction. the second generation suncatcher is 5,00 pounds
lighter than the original, has better optics and less parts. the mirrors are each made from steel using
a process similar to making the hood of a car. the new design will be deployed in 2010 for commercial
scale energy collection sites which use a large number of units in a concentrated are.

http://www.stirlingenergy.com


© stirling energy systems, inc.


© stirling energy systems, inc.


© stirling energy systems, inc.


© stirling energy systems, inc.
nate db
08.26.09  
3
Too bad they are not available for the consumer
Chad   08.27.09
Making one wouldn't be too hard. All you need are some mirrors and the ability to cut them, some high-school level maths (a parabola), a sterling engine (very easy to build), and a generator.
anon   08.28.09
Well, technically, a dynamo. The whole assembly would be a generator.
anon   08.28.09

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