Optical concentrator, especially for solar photovoltaics

摘要: In one embodiment of a solar concentrator, tailored aspheric lens augments the solar-concentrator performance concave mirror, widening its acceptance angle for easier tracking, making it more cost-competitive ultra-large arrays. The molded-glass secondary also includes short rod reducing peak concentration on photovoltaic cell that is optically bonded to end rod. Simultaneous Multiple Surface method produces shapes suitable variety medium and high concentrations by mirrored dishes. Besides rotationally symmetric parabolic mirror itself, other deviations therefrom are described, including free-form rectangular has focal region at edge.