CA2748537A1

CA2748537A1 - High efficiency system for collecting solar energy and for storing collected energy in a reversible way, uses of the system and manufacturing thereof

Info

Publication number: CA2748537A1
Application number: CA2748537A
Authority: CA
Inventors: Jacques-Alexandre FORTIN; Mathieu CHAGNON; Stephane Baribeau
Original assignee: Individual
Current assignee: Individual
Priority date: 2011-08-04
Filing date: 2011-08-04
Publication date: 2013-02-04

Abstract

A high efficiency system for collecting solar energy and for storing said collected energy in a reversible way, said system comprising:
- a concentrating solar dish unit assembly having a rotational axis, which solar dish unit assembly comprises at least one rigid parabolic self-supporting solar collector system;
- a heat storage system configured to receive, store and provide, when required, the heat energy collected through a thermal fluid circulating through said heat transfer collector, and - means for circulating the heat transfer fluid from said at least one heat transfer collector to the said thermal storage unit and/or means for circulating a heat transfer fluid heated in the said heat storage system to an exterior element to be heated.

A high efficiency system for collecting solar energy and for storing said collected energy in a reversible way, said system comprising:
- a concentrating solar dish unit assembly configured to heat a heat transfer fluid circulating in a heat transfer collector positioned close to the focus of said concentrating solar dish unit;
- a heat storage system configured to receive, store and provide when required, heat energy collected through a thermal fluid circulating through said heat storage system, said heat storage system comprising at least one housing wherein an assembly of n (n being superior or equal to 1) one-piece radiator/heat exchanger unit, and - means for circulating the heat transfer fluid from said at least one heat transfer collector to the said thermal storage unit and/or for means for circulating heat transfer fluid heated in the said heat storage system to an element to be heated.

Use of the high efficiency systems for the reversible storage of solar heat energy and process for manufacturing the thermal storage system according to anyone of claims I to 56, by using assembling methods such as extrusion, melding and screwing.

Description

HIGH EFFICIENCY SYSTEM FOR COLLECTING SOLAR ENERGY AND FOR STORING
COLLECTED ENERGY IN A REVERSIBLE WAY, USESD OF SYSTEM AND MANUFACTURING
THEREOF
FIELD OF THE INVENTION

The invention relates to the field of high efficiency solar energy collecting and storing systems.

The invention also relates to use of the high efficiency systems for the collection of solar energy and for the reversible storage of solar heat energy.

Additionally, the invention relates to process for the manufacturing of the high efficiency systems.

The system fits well with both alternative and traditional energies, but also with waste heat (fireplaces, start etc...).
Since there are gaps between demand and production of energy, the systems of the present invention act as a moderator of consumer surplus by absorbing and then returning on demand.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

US Patent Application number 2008 0078380 Al describes a concentrating solar energy collector comprising a) a heat collector; b) first and second identical or substantially identical panels forming at least a portion of a housing;
and a first reflector positioned within said housing to receive solar radiation and concentrate at least portion of said solar radiation on said heat collector.

US Patent Application number 2008 0083405 Al describes a concentrating solar energy collector comprising a) a frame or housing; b) a heat collector; and c) a first electrically deformable reflector ; said first elastically deformable reflector being at least substantially flat absent deforming force; d) wherein said frame or housing id configured to receive said first elastically deformable reflector in a shape that concentrates at least a portion of said solar radiation on said at least heat collector.

US Patent Application number 2011 0067692 Al describes a foam backed solid support structure and trough solar energy collector. A support structure has foam or other polymeric material, a plurality of end arms, and a plurality of end caps secured to the formed foam material. The foam material is cut into a parabolic or semi-parabolic shape, and a reflective element may be placed onto the formed foam material and secured mechanically, with adhesion, and/or integrated with the surface. A solar energy collector formed using a polymeric core may have longitudinally-extending cowling, end caps, and end arms as described.

US Patent Application number 2010 0236600 Al describes a solar energy collector array comprising a plurality of rows of solar energy collectors having a first deflector adjacent to a first row of the solar energy collectors and second deflector adjacent to a second row of the solar energy collectors.

US Patent Application number 2011 0067692 describes a trough solar energy collector having a rotational axis comprising a collector tube, a first reflective panel and a second reflective panel, (i) each of said first and second reflective panels comprising a honeycomb or polymeric core having an arc-shaped surface a reflector on the arc-shaped surface of the polymeric core cowling along a longitudinal edge extending along the polymeric core and extending parallel to the rotational axis of the solar collector (ii) the first reflective panel being positioned to illuminate a first side of the collector tube, (iii) the second reflective panel being positioned to illuminate a second side of the collector tube.
US Patent Application 2011 0073104 describes examples and variations of apparatus and methods for concentrating solar radiations with trough solar energy collectors are disclosed. A support assembly for a trough solar energy collector has a plurality of transverse ribs attached to longitudinal rails and end assemblies secured to the rails. End assemblies may attach to longitudinal rails through transverse ribs, and guy wires may span from one of the end sections to the other. Transverse ribs may be formed of two rib sections with semi-parabolic shape. Solar energy collecting panels may be placed on the ribs and secured with cowlings and transverse panel-retaining strips, for instance.
In one variation, a trough solar energy collector, comprising: a support assembly for supporting one or more solar energy collecting panels, said support assembly further comprising: (a) a plurality of longitudinal rails; (b) a first transverse rib and a second transverse rib both secured to said plurality of longitudinal rails, wherein each of said ribs has a shape approximating an arc of a cylindrical or parabolic surface; and (c) a first end assembly and a second end assembly both secured to said plurality of longitudinal rails; wherein each of said first and second transverse ribs is formed from at least two rib pieces; said rib pieces forming part of said cylindrical or parabolic surface, said first and second rib pieces having portions overlapping one another at an apex, minimum, or vertex of said cylindrical or parabolic surface; at least one solar energy collecting panel; and a collector tube positioned to receive light reflected by said collecting panel.

US patent application number 4 080 703 describes a heat exchanger in the form of a heat radiating or absorbing panel is disclosed, which consists of an aluminum panel having a copper tube secured thereto in heat exchange relationship.
The panel has at least one pair of parallel, spaced, retainer legs that have angularly inwardly extending flanges. A
copper tube of circular cross section is laid into the channel formed by said retainer legs, and is then squashed by means of a die into a generally oval cross section which will be confined within the retainer legs. While so confined,

2 fluid under pressure may be introduced into the tube to expand it into intimate contact with the panel, the retainer legs and the flanges. The assembly may then be heated during the expanding step to a temperature somewhat above the expected operating temperature of the assembly, to prevent loosening of the intimate contact between the tube and panel, which have different coefficient of expansion. Provision may be made to cause flow through the tube to be turbulent or swirling. Alternatively, the introduction of fluid under pressure, and the heating of the assembly, may be omitted, and the sum of the inside surface of the back of the panel between the flanges, the inside surfaces of the flanges, and the underside of the die between the flanges, may be made equal to the outside circumference of the tube. The exposed surface of the panel may be configured to increase its area and to provide good exposure over a wide range of angles of incidence. The heat exchange relationship between the tube and panel may be enhanced by interposing a thin layer of a synthetic resin between; and the resin may have powdered metal entrained therein. If dimensional relationships alone are relied upon to provide intimate contact between the tube and panel, a mastic-like material in a thin film may be applied to the interface between the tube and panel to improve heat transfer and seal out moisture.

US patent number 5 048 602 describes a heat exchanger includes a core and a pair of headers, the core including flat tubes and corrugated fins sandwiched between the tubes, the headers having holes in which the end portions of the tubes are inserted, wherein each tube comprises a stop means for ensuring that an adequate length of the tubes become inserted in the headers.

US patent number 6 155 340 describes a heat exchanger comprises a plurality of flat tubes for heat exchange between a first fluid flowing inside the tubes and a second fluid flowing outside the tubes. A pair of hollow headers is connected to the ends of the flat tubes. An inlet and outlet are provided in the headers for introducing the first fluid into the flat tubes and discharging it therefrom. Each header is composed of at least two parallel tubes with substantially circular cross-section, two adjacent tubes having integrated wall portions, thereby providing a substantially flat header.

US patent number 6397931 describes a finned heat exchanger is disclosed. The heat exchanger includes a unitary fin array with a multiplicity of fin banks. Each of the fin banks include a plurality of raised, folded fins for heat transfer.
The fin banks extend in a transverse direction and are spaced apart in a longitudinal direction. The fin banks are retained within the fin array by looped expansion turns. The fin array is mounted on a dielectric substrate base. A
closed flow channel for directing a flow of coolant is created by adding a cap to the substrate base.

US patent application 2011 000657 describes an extruded tube for a heat exchanger is provided that includes two at least approximately parallel outer side walls that extend in a longitudinal direction and a transverse direction of the extruded tube and that are connected by two outer narrow sides in a vertical direction of the extruded tube, wherein at least one continuous web extends between the side walls in the longitudinal direction and in the vertical direction and separates at least two ducts of the extruded tube, and wherein at least one of the outer side walls has embossings that

3 serve to form both bulged portions that project into the ducts of the side walls and also bulged portions that extend substantially in the transverse direction of the web, wherein the bulged portions of the at least one web have a controlled orientation with respect to the transverse direction.

EP 2 273 224 describes the unit (15) has an interior duct (17) i.e. extruded duct, comprising a set of longitudinal internal channels that circulates fluid. A hollow exterior envelope (19) is hosed in the interior duct and manufactured using a strip. Two ribbed walls (19a) are arranged on either side of the interior duct to delimit another set of longitudinal channels (29) for circulating another fluid that is in contact with the interior duct and the exterior envelope. The latter set of channels is extended in parallel to the former set of longitudinal internal channels. An independent claim is also included for a method for manufacturing a heat exchange unit between two fluids The main downside of alternative and/or renewable energies is their spontaneous production. There is no control of production, we basically have to capture it and store it when it is available.
Our design provides a new approach using, for example, the enthalpy of materials combined with an efficient heat exchanger in order to capture the thermal energy, notably the sun's, and store it in dense thermal capacitor in order to restore it within minimum losses at the desired period.

Numerous systems have been proposed for storing thermal energy in a reversible way.

US patent 4 270 523 describes a heat storage apparatus comprising a plurality of heat exchanger elements mounted in a housing. Each element has a central portion containing a storage medium, surrounded by portions through which a first and a second heat transfer fluid can be passed in heat contact with said storage medium. Means are provided for passing the heat transfer fluids from respective supply conduits through the apparatus through the respective portions of the heat exchanger elements to respective discharge conduits.
US patent 6 400 896 B I describes a heat exchanger for a phase change material including a container holding the phase change material, a tube surrounding the container to define an annular space therebetween, and preferably divider walls within that annular space to create a circuitous path for heat exchange fluid to be routed in multiple passes along the length of the container when passing from the top of the annular space to the bottom of the annular space. When the heat exchanger is operated in a melt cycle, multiple heat energy transfer elements positioned within the lower portion of the container and extending through the phase change material are heatable to a sufficiently high temperature to initiate melting of the phase change material. The heat energy transfer elements are preferably electrical resistance heated rods or coils, or tubes through which is routed high temperature fluid. When the heat exchanger is operated in a freeze cycle, heat exchange fluid at a low enough temperature to initiate freezing of the phase change material typically is introduced into the top of the annular space. In an alternate embodiment in which water is employed as a phase change material, the heat energy transfer elements are used in the freezing cycle, and heat exchange fluid flowing through the annular space is used in the melting cycle.

4 US patent 7 441 558 B2 describes an active thermal energy storage system is disclosed which uses an energy storage material that is stable at atmospheric pressure and temperature and has a melting point higher than 32 degrees F. This energy storage material is held within a storage tank and used as an energy storage source, from which a heat transfer system (e.g., a heat pump) can draw to provide heating of residential or commercial buildings and associated hot water. The energy storage material may also accept waste heat from a conventional air conditioning loop, and may store such heat until needed. The system may be supplemented by a solar panel system that can be used to collect energy during daylight hours, storing the collected energy in the energy storage material. The stored energy may then be used during the evening hours to heat recirculation air for a building in which the system is installed.
US patent 7 793 651 B2 describes a heat storage apparatus includes heat storage panels having primary fluid passages formed therein; passage plates having secondary fluid passages formed therein;
and heat reservoirs. The heat storage panels and the passage plates are layered alternately, and the heat reservoirs are interposed between the heat storage panels and the passage plates in such a manner that the heat reservoirs, the heat storage panels and the passage plates are adhered to one another. Protrusions are formed on surfaces of the heat storage panels in such a manner that the heat reservoirs are supported by the protrusions.

JP patent application number 5032963 provides a novel nontoxic heat storage material noncorrosive to heat storage vessels, also capable of storing great quantities of thermal energy in elevated temperature range, consisting mainly of a specific sugar alcohol with high melting point and high latent heat of fusion such as erythritol. The objective heat storage material consisting mainly of a sugar alcohol selected from erythritol, mannitol and galactitol. If such a heat storage material as to be relaxed in supercooling phenomena is desired, a nucleating agent (e.g. pentaerythritol) for said sugar alcohol. is pref.

In JP patent application number 11044494 (A) To prevent the deterioration of heat storage material to improve durability and obtain efficient heat storage function as well as heat exchanging function by a method wherein specified heat storage material is used and a space in a storage tank is kept at a positive pressure under the atmosphere of inert gas. SOLUTION: A heat storage device is constituted of a reserving tank 1, in which a heating source 2 and the flow passage 3 of heat exchanging medium are accommodated, and a heat storage material 4, into the reserving tank. A Sugar alcohol, having the principal constituent of erythritol, mannitol or the like, is used as the heat storage material. An electric heater, such as a pipe type and the like, is used as a heating source 2 and the electric heater having the capacity of the degree of 0.5-20 kW, for example, is used in accordance with the internal volume of the reserving tank 1. A space 5 in the reserving tank 1 is retained at a positive pressure under the atmosphere of an inert gas in order to avoid internal leakage into the reserving tank 1.
Nitrogen gas is used as the inert gas from the view point of cost. The concentration of oxygen in the space 5 is preferably to be not higher than 100 ppm

5 There was a further need for a system that addresses at least one of the problems of the prior art systems, and preferably all of them.

There was a further need for efficient uses of solar energy and for processes for manufacturing the recovering of valuable by-products during recovering, in an environmental and acceptable way, of reusable by-products.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
35 Figure 1: represents a general perspective view of a highly efficient system (S), for recovering solar energy by solar energy concentration, wherein a module consisting of a multiplicity of series of interconnected one-piece radiator/heat exchanger according to a first embodiment of the present application is incorporated therein.

6 Figure 2: represents a perspective side view of the streamlined structure of a solar dish unit of the assembly as represented in Figure 1.
Figure 3: represents a perspective back view of the streamlined structure of the solar dish unit assembly according to the preferred embodiment of the parabolic solar collectors represented in Figure 2.
Figure 4: represents a side view of the streamlined isometric structure of the solar dish unit assembly according to the preferred embodiment of the parabolic solar collectors represented in Figures 1 to 3.
Figure 5: represents an aerial view of the streamlined structure of a solar dish unit assembly according to the preferred embodiment of the invention as represented in Figure 2.
Figure 6: represents a vertical cross view, in a vertical crossing the left wheel, of the streamlined structure of the solar dish unit assembly according to the preferred embodiment of the invention represented in Figures 2 and 3, this view showing 2 supporting elements ant the parabolic solar reflector.
Figure 7: represents a front view a), a side view b) and a perspective view of the structural wheel of the solar dish unit assembly represented in Figure 2.
Figure 8: is a perspective view and a detailed view of the rotating mechanism of the rotating ring inside the internal wheel represented in Figure 7.

Figure 9: is a perspective vertical side view of a Calo-arm that supports the heat transfer tube represented in Figure 2.
Figure 10: represents a horizontal cross view a) and an horizontal perspective side view b) of the calo-arm represented on Figure 9.
Figure 11: represents the detailed of the Calo-clam a front view a), side view b), perspective view c) and linear view d) attaching a Calo-arm and a heat transfer tube according to the preferred embodiment of the invention represented in Figure 2.
Figure 12: represent a perspective view of the solar beam connected to the rotating mechanism in Figure8.
Figure 13: represents a perspective view one joint between heat transfer tubes at focal point.
Figure 14: represents the exploded view and split view of joints between 2 heat transfer tube as use in the a cross section, according Figure 15: represents the general diagram of the highly efficient system (S) represented in Figure 1.
Figure 16: is a perspective view of a line of solar dish unit, with supporting means apparent.
Figure 17: I a perspective view of the system S mounted on the flat roof of a dairy plant.
Figure 18: represents a perspective view a) and an horizontal cross view of a one-piece radiator/heat exchanger unit according to a first preferred embodiment of the present application.
Figure 19: represents a side view of a heat exchanger series of 8 one-piece radiator/heat exchanger units according to a first preferred embodiment of the present application.
Figure 20: represents a detailed perspective vertical side view of a module constituted by 10 series of 8 interconnected one-piece radiator/heat exchanger units according to the first preferred embodiment represented on Figure 19.

7 Figure 21: represents a detailed perspective vertical side view of the superior part of the module represented on Figure 20.
Figure 22: represents a perspective vertical view of a one-piece radiator/heat exchanger unit according to a second preferred embodiment of the present application wherein the cross-section represents 3 circular tubes and 3 flat tubes, each of the circular tube being adjacent to 2 of the circular tubes.
Figure 23: represents the manifold used to connect units in the embodiment represented on Figure 20.
Figure 24: represents the module of Figure 20 mounted with the manifold represented on Figure 23 and positioned in a tank placed inside an assembled tank with inert gas blanket system.
Figure 25: represent an alternative to supporting means as described according to the first embodiment of the invention; is perspective view of the back of supporting structure based on a cylinder (c), with additional supporting and attaching means (al, a2, a' I et a'2) GENERAL DEFINITION OF THE INVENTION

A first object of the present invention is a high efficiency system for collecting solar energy and for storing said collected energy in a reversible way, said system comprising:
- a concentrating solar dish unit assembly having a rotational axis, which solar dish unit assembly comprises at least:
- one rigid parabolic self-supporting solar collector system comprising at least one solar mirror, at least one heat transfer collector positioned above the concave part of said supporting solar collector and to receive light reflected from said parabolic solar collector, said heat transfer collector being connected preferably in a rigid way, to the said parabolic self-supporting solar collector, - one structural rotational system configured for positioning, by rotation around said rotational axis, the rigid parabolic self supporting solar collector system in an optimised positioning relative to the positioning of the solar beam at the place; and preferably one solar beam detection system configured to analyse the specification, such as the positioning and such as the intensity, of the solar beam at the place and to send optimised positioning parameters to said structural rotational system, said solar beam detection system being preferably positioned on a edge of the lateral side solar mirror;

- a heat storage system configured to receive, store and provide, when required, the heat energy collected through a thermal fluid circulating through said heat transfer collector; and - means for circulating the heat transfer fluid from said at least one heat transfer collector to the said thermal storage unit and/or means for circulating a heat transfer fluid heated in the said heat storage system to an exterior element to be heated; the heat transfer fluids being preferably the same .

A second object of the present invention is a high efficiency system for collecting solar energy and for storing said

8 collected energy in a reversible way, said system comprising:
- a concentrating solar dish unit assembly configured to heat a heat transfer fluid circulating in a heat transfer collector positioned close to the focus of said concentrating solar dish unit;
- a heat storage system configured to receive, store and provide when required, heat energy collected through a thermal fluid circulating through said heat storage system, said heat storage system comprising at least one housing wherein an assembly of n (n being superior or equal to I )one-piece radiator/heat exchanger unit comprising of lateral tubes and central tubes for heat exchange between a first fluid, flowing or not flowing, inside one of said tubes and a second fluid, flowing or not flowing, outside one of said tubes, each of the tubes having a cross-section, walls and a pair of ends, the said lateral tubes being symmetrically positioned adjacent to the said central tubes, the axis of each said tubes being about parallel and positioned about the same plan or positioned in parallel plans, each of the lateral tubes sharing a common wall with at least one of the central tubes and the lateral tubes being, at least two by two, connected by the walls of the central tubes that are not shared with the said lateral tubes, and - means for circulating the heat transfer fluid from said at least one heat transfer collector to the said thermal storage unit and/or for means for circulating heat transfer fluid heated in the said heat storage system to an element to be heated.

A third object of the present invention is the use of a system, as defined in the first object of the present invention, for the reversible storage of solar heat energy.
A fourth object of the present invention is a process for manufacturing the thermal storage system according to anyone of claims 1 to 56, by using assembling methods such as extrusion, melding and screwing.

PREFERED EMBODIMENT

The invention is a thermal storage unit to receive, store and provide heat through thermal fluids (coolants, for example), it includes:

= at least one housing (such as a metal tank) for containing at least one heat exchanger and at least one thermal absorbing material which is preferably an phase change material (solid-liquid) organic or inorganic with a stable life time resistance (number of cycles 4 000), with a phase transition temperature ranging from 100 -250, preference 150-190, preferably about 170 Celsius in the case of mannitol such as temperature de mannitol, with a volumetric thermal capacity in solid phase ranging from 1893 kJoule par m3 .K, at solid phase being about 3972 at liquid state, preferably which can be isolated used as a container for the entire system.

9 = An assembly of radiator / heat exchanger (for example ref: patent radiator /
heat exchanger) to transfer heat between the storage device and the thermal fluid(s).

= A suitable amount of said thermal absorbing material immersing material to store heat and heat transfer fluid through the assembly of radiator / heat exchanger.

= A manifold to distribute fluids in the assembly of radiator / heat exchanger.
EXAMPLE:
The following example is given as a matter of illustration only and should not be interpreted as constituting any limitation of the scope of the invention.

Example 1- Dairy plant:
The installation partially represented in Figure 1 comprises a highly efficient system (S) for recovering solar energy by solar energy concentration by using a battery (1) of parabolic solar collectors (7) according to the present invention. The system (S) was implemented as a complementary energy system for the industrial dairy plant (P) and installed on the roof of the dairy plant as apparent on Figure 17.
The battery (1) is connected to the heat storage system (2) by means of the tubular connection (alternatively replaced industrial piping) (3).The tubular connection (4) feed the battery (1) of parabolic solar connectors with the cold fluid coming from the dairy plant (P). The tubular connection (5) connects the heat storage system (2) with the plant and feed the plant (P) with heated fluid.

In the case of the present example, the battery (1) comprises 6 rows of 120 feet of parabolic solar collectors (7) of the said elements covering 252 square meters, the parabolic solar connectors are connected in series, in 6 parallel lines, of solar collectors units.

The pump and expansion tank system (6) assures the circulation of the fluids in tubular connections (4) and (5) and absorbs the volumetric differences due to thermal expansion and contaction of the fluid circulating in tubular connections (4) and (5). The thermal storage system (2) comprises a radiator /
heat exchanger assembly (8) positioned inside the walls of the heat storage system (2).

The parabolic solar collectors (7) are installed on the roof (9) of the dairy plant and cover a surface of 252 square meters. The collectors have an approximate efficiency of 70% on an average sunny day, they can absorb 700 Watts of the 1 000 watts received per square meters of ground covered by the parabolic collectors. The solar energy thereby captured is then converted to thermal energy as a heat transfer fluid is circulated at the apex of the parabolic solar collectors (7) on the heat transfer tube (10).

The solar collectors (7) of the invention are mechanised in order to be able to follow the sun path as the day advances.
This solar path tracking is obtained by the solar beam apparatus (100) mounted on the solar concentrators in junction with a mechanical motor and drive (M) to adjust accordingly the collector's position relative to the sun.

The solar collector (7), represented on Figure 2, is 1,25 meter broad and the parallel side wheels (20) and (21) have a diameter of 1,20 meter.
The rigidity of the self-supporting structure solar collector (7) is assures by 2 rails (27) and (28), each end of a rail being connected to the internal surface on one of the two parallel side wheels (20) and (21) and by the spinal rail (26) also connecting the two side wheels.

The parabolic surface (31) is constituted by the two adjacent parabolic mirrors (21) and (22). In the present example the parabolic mirrors are made of laminated aluminum with a reflective film.

The two lateral edges of the two adjacent parabolic mirrors (21) and (22) are fixed respectively to the rails (27) and (28) of the self-supporting structure.
The rigidity of the self-supporting structure is also created by 6 diagonal supporting elements (25) (only 3 of them are apparent on Figure 2) and by 4 vertical supporting elements (34).

Each of the supporting elements (25) connecting 2 adjacent parallel vertical supporting elements (34).
Each vertical supporting element (34) connecting the spinal rail (26) with one of 2 lateral rails (27) and (28).

The heat transfer tube (29) is maintained in a predetermined fixed position above the concave part of the mirror and relative to the focus of the mirrors (22) and (23), by means of the 2 so called Calo-arms (47) and (48) perpendicularly attached respectively to the extremity (49) and to the center (50) of the heat transfer tube (29). The Calo-arms (47) and (48) being also attached, respectively to the left extremity and to the center of to the spinal rail (26).

The Cabo-arms (47) and (48) are identical and represented in a more detail way in Figures 9, 10 and 11. The Calo-arms (47) and (48) is constituted by a shaft (200) with parallel guides (201) in form of structural grooves (70) and by arise (?) (71). The connecting element (73) is made of an annular part (203) positioned around the circular section of the heat transfer heating tube (29) and ends by two flat parts (204) and (205) represented in Figures l la, I lb, I Ic and lid.

The Solar beam sensing system (d) is of the Analogue Guy type is generally represented on Figure 2 and in details on Figure 12. The Solar beam sensing system (d) comprises a cylinder (80), 2 photovoltaic cells (82) and (83) measuring the positioning (by means of 2 reference angles), an half disc (100) assuring the presence of a shaded zone for one of the photovoltaic cells, 2 photovoltaic cells measuring the positioning (by means of 3 reference angles) of the mirror in respect of the solar beam, and a supporting plate (81) that support the half-disc and the photo-sensors (82) et (83).
Globally the Solar beam sensing system (d) identifies the optimal positioning of the solar beams relative to the position of the soar dish and comprise a calculating module configured to send positioning instructions to the motor (M).

The solar beam sensing system detects solar potential and steer precisely the structure (via the mechanical system) towards optimal solar collection. In order to place the pair of mirrors (22) and (23) in the appropriate position respective the solar beam and for a maximum recovering efficiency during the complete period of the day wherein the system (S) is in function.

During the night, or when the intensity of the solar beam is too weak, the assembly of mirrors rotates in a protective mode wherein the heat transfer tube (29) is in under the convex part of the mirrors (22) and (23).
Then, the back parts of the mirrors (22) and (23) act as protectors against rain, hail, ice or any other environmental aggressive natural element. The assembly of mirrors will return in operational mode as soon as the operational conditions are present.

The assembly of mirrors of supporting elements, of rails of heat transfer tube and of Calo-arm are connected in a solider(?) way rotates by means of the structural wheels (20) and (21) and on the 3 contact points (61), (62) and (63) apparent on Figure 7c.

Once the heat is transferred thought the walls of the heat transfer tube (29) from the solar beam to the heat transfer fluid that in the present case is XCELTHERM Grade 500, then the heat transfer fluid is pumped by means of pump system (6) through the thermal storage system which comprises a heat exchanger (8) of the types plates heat exchanger, or shell heat exchanger, with a maximum heat storage capacity of 209 kWh.

The heat transfer fluid in the system (S) is pumped and controlled by a control system, the circulatory pump, an expansion tank positioned in pump and extension tank (6) and various types of valves and plumbing fittings.

The control system measures the thermal storage system's temperature and evaluates if the need of heat is required, if so, it sends a signal to the solar collectors (7) to verify if there is sufficient solar potential to heat and if so, it starts the pump and begin to ramp up the heat transfer fluid through the solar collectors (7) and then through the storage system (2).

In the storage system is, in the case of the present example, a phase-change material (in this case mannitol which is at least 99 % pure) which undergoes a phase change at temperatures around 170 C.

The metal tank of the heat storage system (s) has approximate exterior measurements as follows: 96" x 37" x 37"
without insulation (add 11 " thickness all around if you use mineral mats).
In this tank made of metal lays the heat exchanger/radiator which is submerged in the phase-change material. So the heat storage tank allows heat exchange between 3 fluids:
- hot heat transfer fluid;
- cold heat transfer fluid; and - phase-change material.

In summary the advantages of the new thermal processing apparatus include:

= The invention is distinguished by its versatility, its manufacturing cost that can be very low, and its robustness. Indeed it is possible to give the tank any dimensions and proportions necessary depending on the intended use, its simplicity and its shape also provide very good strength.
= You may use any type of material, fluid or solid phase to store thermal energy when they are compatible with the surrounding environment.

= The circulation of the heat transfer fluid occurs through the thermal storage material which is relatively static (depending on the physical properties of the chosen thermal storage material).

= The surface to volume ratio of thermal exchange between the storage material and the heat exchanger /
radiator is high.

= The tank has been designed to allow an inert blanket system in order to protect the internal heat storage material from oxidation and degradation. Indeed an airtight lid allows the introduction of an inert gas.
Description of the potential:

= Radiator mode: Direct Exchange from two similar fluids circulating in the circular cavity to the surrounding medium. This mode can be regarded as 100% thermal dumping or 100% thermal extraction by the same module.

= Hybrid mode: staged heat transfer between the 3 fluids within one module.

1. Between the primary fluid flowing in one of the two circular cavities and the secondary fluid flowing in the other circular cavity.
2. Between primary and secondary fluids and the external medium.
= Direct heat exchanger:
Direct thermal exchange between two fluids through walls connecting the two circular cavities (or tubes) = Various possibilities of fluids internal oil, water, glycol, etc..
= The manufacturing process allows for a variety of materials to be used for the profile (metal, plastic, composite).

= Various immersing material, gas, solid phase change material etc ....

= Assembly in series or parallel by U-bends in order to have a multiplication of infinite possibilities (number and arrangement) = Variety of materials for the tank manufacturing = Immersion of said tank in the ground.
Although the present invention has been described with the aid of specific embodiments, it should be understood that several variations and modifications may be grafted onto said embodiments and that the present invention encompasses such modifications, usages or adaptations of the present invention that will become known or conventional within the field of activity to which the present invention pertains, and which may be applied to the essential elements mentioned above.

Claims

1. A high efficiency system for collecting solar energy and for storing said collected energy in a reversible way, said system comprising:
- a concentrating solar dish unit assembly having a rotational axis, which solar dish unit assembly comprises at least:
- one rigid parabolic self-supporting solar collector system comprising at least one solar mirror, at least one heat transfer collector positioned above the concave part of said supporting solar collector and to receive light reflected from said parabolic solar collector, said heat transfer collector being connected, preferably in a rigid way, to the said parabolic self-supporting solar collector, - one structural rotational system configured for positioning, by rotation around said rotational axis, the rigid parabolic self supporting solar collector system in an optimised positioning relative to the positioning of the solar beam at the place; and - preferably one solar beam detection system configured to analyse the specification, such as the positioning and such as the intensity, of the solar beam at the place and to send optimised positioning parameters to said structural rotational system, said solar beam detection system being preferably positioned on a edge of the lateral side solar mirror;

- a heat storage system configured to receive, store and provide, when required, the heat energy collected through a thermal fluid circulating through said heat transfer collector; and - means for circulating the heat transfer fluid from said at least one heat transfer collector to the said thermal storage unit and/or means for circulating a heat transfer fluid heated in the said heat storage system to an exterior element to be heated; the heat transfer fluids being preferably the same .

2. A high efficiency system for collecting solar energy and for storing said collected energy in a reversible way, said system comprising:
- a concentrating solar dish unit assembly configured to heat a heat transfer fluid circulating in a heat transfer collector positioned close to the focus of said concentrating solar dish unit;
- a heat storage system configured to receive, store and provide when required, heat energy collected through a thermal fluid circulating through said heat storage system, said heat storage system comprising at least one housing wherein an assembly of n (n being superior or equal to 1)one-piece radiator/heat exchanger unit comprising of lateral tubes and central tubes for heat exchange between a first fluid, flowing or not flowing, inside one of said tubes and a second fluid, flowing or not flowing, outside one of said tubes, each of the tubes having a cross-section, walls and a pair of ends, the said lateral tubes being symmetrically positioned adjacent to the said central tubes, the axis of each said tubes being about parallel and positioned about the same plan or positioned in parallel plans, each of the lateral tubes sharing a common wall with at least one of the central tubes and the lateral tubes being, at least two by two, connected by the walls of the central tubes that are not shared with the said lateral tubes, and - means for circulating the heat transfer fluid from said at least one heat transfer collector to the said thermal storage unit and/or for means for circulating heat transfer fluid heated in the said heat storage system to an element to be heated.

3. A high efficiency system for collecting solar energy and for storing said collected energy in a reversible way, according to claim 1,wherein the heat storage system configured to receive, store and provide when required, heat energy collected through a thermal fluid circulating through said heat storage system, said heat storage system comprising at least one housing wherein an assembly of n (n being superior or equal to 1) one-piece radiator/heat exchanger unit comprising of lateral tubes and central tubes for heat exchange between a first fluid, flowing or not flowing, inside one of said tubes and a second fluid, flowing or not flowing, outside one of said tubes, each of the tubes having a cross-section, walls and a pair of ends, the said lateral tubes being symmetrically positioned adjacent to the said central tubes, the axis of each said tubes being about parallel and positioned about the same plan or positioned in parallel plans, each of the lateral tubes sharing a common wall with at least one of the central tubes and the lateral tubes being, at least two by two, connected by the walls of the central tubes that are not shared with the said lateral tubes volume defined by the external walls of the at least one-piece radiator/heat exchanger unit and the internal walls of the housing is at least partially filled by at least one thermal absorbing material which is a solid-liquid phase change material.

4. A high efficiency system, according to claim 2, wherein said concentrating solar dish unit assembly has a rotational axis, which solar dish unit assembly comprises at least:
- one rigid parabolic self-supporting solar collector system comprising at least one solar mirror, at least one heat transfer collector positioned above the concave part of said supporting solar collector and to receive light reflected from said parabolic solar collector, said heat transfer collector being connected, preferably in a rigid way, to the said parabolic self-supporting solar collector, - one structural rotational system configured for positioning, by rotation around said rotational axis, the rigid parabolic self supporting solar collector system in an optimised positioning relative to the positioning of the solar beam at the place; and preferably one solar beam detection system configured to analyse the specification, such as the positioning and such as the intensity, of the solar beam at the place and to send optimised positioning parameters to said structural rotational system, said solar beam detection system being preferably positioned on a edge of the lateral side solar mirror.

5. A high efficiency system, according to claims 3 or 4, wherein the rigid parabolic self-supporting collector system comprises one solar beam detection system configured to analyse the specification, such as the positioning and such as the intensity, of the solar beam at the place and to send optimised positioning parameters to said structural rotational system, said solar beam detection system being preferably positioned on a edge of the lateral side solar mirror.

6. A high efficiency system, according to anyone of claims 1 to 5, wherein said heat storage unit being at least partially filled with a suitable amount of a thermal absorbing immersing material to store heat from the heat transfer fluid through the assembly of radiator/heat exchanger units.

7. A high efficiency system according to anyone of claims 1 and 3 to 6, wherein said rigid parabolic self-supporting solar collector system comprises a reinforced structure supporting the at least one solar mirror.

8. A high efficiency system according to anyone of claims 1 and 3 to 7, wherein said rigid parabolic self-supporting solar collector comprises at least:
- a rigid parabolic self-supporting mirror system, which mirror system can be made of various elementary mirrors having preferably the same features, particularly the same curves, to receive solar radiation and to concentrate at least portion of said solar radiation on said heat transfer collector;
- a reinforced structure for supporting said parabolic mirror, which reinforcing structure being positioned under said parabolic mirror;
- a heat transfer collector, preferably a heat transfer tube, positioned to receive light reflected from said parabolic solar collector, said heat transfer tube being positioned at a position that is parallel to the axle of said parabolic mirror and that is sensibly constant relative to the spatial positioning of the parabolic self-supporting mirror;
- a heat transfer tube support positioned under said heat transfer tube for assuring support and rigidity of said heat transfer tube;
- a structural rotational system that is a wheel system comprising at least two parallel external wheels having sensibly the same diameter and positioned at opposite extremities of said solar dish unit;
- a mechanical system connected to the said structural wheel system for positioning said dish unit according to the position of the solar beam comprising a motor that may be positioned in the calo-arm; and - a beam detection system and a conversion unit for providing said mechanical system with instructions foe positioning said structural wheel system.

9. A high efficiency system, according to anyone of claims 1 and 3 to 8, wherein the concentrating solar dish unit assembly, presents at least one of the following specifications:
- said parabolic self-supporting mirror being attached directly or indirectly to the structural wheel system, - said reinforced structure comprising at least 3 rails, a spinal rail and two edge rails connected together by reinforcing elements which are attached directly and/or indirectly to the internal part of the two external wheels, - each of the 2 lateral sides of said parabolic self-supporting mirror being attached and/or supported to/by one of the at least 2 edge rails;

- the spinal rail being connected to the edge rails by the said reinforcing elements;
- said heat transfer tube being inside the cylinder defined by the 2 external parallel wheels, and positioned at the focal of the beam; and - the heat transfer tube support being attached to the spinal tube and to the heat transfer tube and being perpendicular to the spinal rail to the heat transfer tube.

10. A high efficiency according to anyone of claims 1 and 3 to 9, wherein the structural rotational system of the concentrating solar dish unit assembly is configured to be able to position the system from 0 to 360 degrees, an in a non use position wherein the rotational angle of the wheel system may vary from 0 to 180 degrees relative to the use position, preferably the non-use rotational angle is about 200 degrees.

11. A high efficiency system according to anyone of claims 1 and 3 to 10, wherein the heat collector of said solar dish unit assembly has a low to very low emissivity that,as measured according to ASTM E408-71, is preferably between 3 and 10 %, and is more preferably about 5 %.

12. A high efficiency system, according to anyone of claims 1 and 3 to 11, wherein, in the solar unit assembly, the combination of the parabolic solar collector system and of the self-supporting reinforced structure allows the entire system to make up the forces applied (especially shear and torsion) without adding special piece.

13. A high efficiency system, according to anyone of claims 3 to 12, wherein, in the solar unit assembly, the freestanding said parabolic mirror is made of a sandwich structure preferably of a "honeycomb" type structure.

14. A high efficiency system according to anyone of claims 1 and 3 to 13, wherein, in the solar unit assembly, at least the concave surface of the self-supporting parabolic solar collective system is reflective.

15. A high efficiency system assembly according to claims 13 and 14, wherein structural strength and sustainability of the curvature of the said mirror is achieved through the sandwich structure which provides the necessary rigidity with low weight, in addition to ensuring high precision optics.

16. A high efficiency system, according to anyone of claims 13 to 15, wherein structural strength and sustainability of the curvature of the mirror is achieved without mechanical maintenance or additional torque.

17. A high efficiency system, according to anyone of claims 14 to 16, wherein said sandwich structure auto carrier can be disassembled from the front of said solar unit assembly and regardless of the complete structure.

18. A high efficiency system according to anyone of claims 1 and 3 to 17, wherein said reinforced structure of the solar unit assembly is composed of three reinforced rails positioned in a triangle.

19. A high efficiency system according to claim 18, wherein in said reinforced structure the 2 edge rails are identical and are preferably tubes and the third rail named spinal rail is preferably a tube.

20. A high efficiency system according to claims 18 or 19, wherein the reinforcing elements are diagonal reinforcement bars.

21. A high efficiency system, according to anyone of claims 18 to 20, wherein the 3 rails are designed, preferably with tracks, to make possible riveting with diagonal reinforcement bars (without adding extra room).

22. A high efficiency system, according to anyone of claims 18 to 21, wherein the positioning of the 3 rails in a triangle made by the diagonal reinforcement bars can give shape to the structure to accommodate the solar collectors or dishes.

23. A high efficiency system, according to anyone of claims 9 to 17, wherein the two side rails allow radial positioning of parabolic solar collector and its holding it in the predetermined position, this result may be achieved, for example, by riveting.

24. A high efficiency system, according to anyone of claim 8 to 18, wherein, in the solar unit assembly, said structural circular wheel, which is fixed, on the structure, allows rotation of the assembly in order to pursue the sun's orientation.

25. A high efficiency system, according to anyone of claims 2 to 24, wherein, in the one-piece radiator/heat exchanger unit, the lateral tubes are configured for the circulation of a liquid and/or for the circulation of a solid and/or for the circulation of a gaseous phase, and the central tube is configured for the circulation of a gaseous and/or for the circulation of a fluid phase.

26. A high efficiency system, according to anyone of claims 2 to 25,wherein, in the one-piece radiator/heat exchanger unit, the parts of the external walls of said tubes that are not common to other of said tubes are equipped with fins, that are preferably symmetrically distributed on the surface of said external wall of said tubes.

27. A high efficiency system, according to anyone of claims 2 to 26, wherein, in the one-piece radiator/heat exchanger unit, the cross-section of the lateral tubes is about circular and the cross-section of the central tube is about rectangular.

28. A high efficiency system, according to anyone of claims 2 to 27, wherein the one-piece radiator/heat exchanger unit comprising 3 tubes for heat exchange between a first fluid flowing inside the tubes and a second fluid flowing outside the tubes, each of the tubes having a cross-section and a pair of ends, 2 of the tubes (the lateral tubes) being symmetrically positioned adjacent to the 3 third tube (the central tube), the 3 tubes having axes that are about parallel and positioned about the same plan, each of the 2 lateral tubes sharing a common wall with the central tube and the 2 opposite lateral tubes being connected by the 2 walls of the central tube that are not shared with the said 2 lateral tubes.

29. A high efficiency system, according to anyone of claims 2 to 28, comprising 6 tubes for heat exchange between a first fluid flowing inside the tubes and a second fluid flowing outside the tubes, each of the tubes having a cross-section and a pair of ends, 3 of the tubes (the lateral tubes) being symmetrically positioned adjacent to 2 of the other 3 tubes (the central tube), the 6 tubes having axes that are about parallel and positioned in parallel plan, each of the 3 lateral tubes sharing a common wall with each of the 2 adjacent central tubes and 2 opposite lateral tubes being connected by the 2 walls of the central tube that are not shared with the said 2 lateral tube, the section of the 3 lateral tubes defining the 3 edges of the triangular cross-section of said one-piece radiator/heat exchanger unit and the section of the central tubes defining the 3 sides of the triangular cross-section of said one-piece radiator/heat exchanger unit.

30. A high efficiency system, according to claims 28 or 29, wherein, in the one-piece radiator/heat exchanger unit, the common shared wall of the one-piece radiator/heat exchanger unit is curved.

31. A high efficiency system, according to anyone of claims 28 to 30, wherein in the one-piece radiator/heat exchanger flat walls, surrounding the at least three cavities, are preferably perpendicular to the external surfaces of each tube to which they are connected with, and act like longitudinal fins thereby promoting direct exchange area between the walls that are preferably metal walls and the fluid circulating outside the walls of said radiator / heat exchanger.

32. A high efficiency system, according to claim 31, wherein said radiator/heat exchanger can be immersed in a third fluid that may be used as a heat buffer, this fluid is preferably a polyol, more preferably mannitol.

33. A high efficiency system, according to anyone of claims 28 to 32, wherein, in the one-piece radiator / heat exchanger, the length (L) of the rectangular section of the central tube represents about 1,5 to 2,5 the diameter (d) of the circular section of each of the at least 2 lateral tubes.

34. A high efficiency system, according to anyone of claims 28 to 33, wherein, in the one-piece radiator / heat exchanger, the width of the rectangular section of the central cavity represents about half the diameter of the circular section of each of the 2 lateral cavities.

35. A high efficiency system, according to anyone of claims 28 to 34, wherein, in the one-piece radiator / heat exchanger, the width of the flat walls surrounding the at least three cavities, are about the diameter of the circular section of each of the at least 2 lateral cavities.

36. A high efficiency system, according to anyone of claims 4 to 35, wherein in the one-piece radiator/heat exchanger the width (w) of the flat walls surrounding the at least three cavities, are about 1 to 1.5 the width of the rectangular section of the central cavity.

37. A high efficiency system, according to anyone of claims 2 to 36, wherein the one-piece radiator / heat exchanger is made of extruded aluminum.

38. A high efficiency system, according to anyone of claims 6 to 37, wherein the thermal absorbing material (solid-liquid) present in the heat storage system is an organic or inorganic or is a mixture of organic and inorganic materials.

39. A high efficiency system, according to anyone of claims 38, wherein the organic material is selected in the group of the sugar, thermo oil, indalloy, and paraffin and the inorganic material is for example among the salt sand stin, magnesium nitrate, magnesium sulphate, lead, steel, cupper, and aluminum sulphate and phosphate, granite, concrete.

40. A high efficiency system according to claims 38 or 39, wherein the thermal absorbing material is stable for at least 4 000 cycles, preferably for at least 5000 cycles, or for 5 years.

41. A high efficiency system, according to anyone of claims 38 to 40, wherein the thermal absorbing material has a phase transition temperature ranges from 100 to 250 degrees Celsius, preferably ranges from 150 to190, preferably about 170 degrees Celsius.

42. A high efficiency system, according to anyone of claims 38 to 41, wherein the thermal absorbing material has a thermal capacity in solid phase ranging from 1000 to 3000, preferably ranging from 1500 to 2500, more preferably being about 1893 kJoule par m3 .K in the case of mannitol.

43. A high efficiency system, according to anyone of claims 38 to 42, wherein the thermal material has an absorbing capacity in liquid phase ranges from 3000 to 5000, preferably ranges from 3500 to 4000, more preferably being about 3972 in the case of mannitol.

44. A high efficiency system, according to anyone of claims 38 to 43, wherein the at least one housing is a metal tank, a concrete tank, or a high temperature polymeric material.

45. A high efficiency system, according to anyone of claims 38 to 44, wherein the at least one housing is thermically isolated.

46. A high efficiency system, according to anyone of claims 2 to 45, wherein the heat exchanger is configured to allow heat exchange of the liquid-liquid type and of the liquid-solid type, and optionally of the liquid-vapour type and or additionally of the solid-vapour type.

47. A high efficiency system A thermal storage unit according to 47, wherein the heat exchanger is of the radiator /
heat exchanger (for example ref: patent radiator / heat exchanger) type.

48. A high efficiency system A thermal storage unit according to anyone of claims 2 to 47, wherein the heat exchanger is constituted by a multitude of elementary element that are connected together by a manifold and said manifold being connected to a net wherein the heat transfer fluids circulate.

49. A high efficiency system according to claim 48, wherein the manifold to distribute fluids in the assembly of radiator / heat exchanger.

50. A high efficiency system according to anyone of claims 1 to 49, wherein the thermal storage system comprises a multiplicity of thermal storage units as defined in anyone of claims 4 to 49.

51. A high efficiency system according to claim 49, wherein the units are connected in parallel and or in series.

52. A high efficiency system according to anyone of claims 1 to 51, wherein said thermal storage system comprises at least a thermal storage unit and at least one heat exchanger with a variable heat exchange capacity.

55. A high efficiency system according to anyone of claims 1 to 51, wherein the heat storage system is configured to be submitted to a, preferably slight, overpressure, preferably of an inert gaz, when necessary.

56. A high efficiency system, according to claim 55, wherein the light overpressure is created by an expansible housing which unit or system communicates with said expansible housing.

57. Use of a system, as defined in anyone of claims 1 to 56, for the reversible storage of solar heat energy.

58. Use according to claim 57 for the reversible storage of solar heat energy in the solar industry, food industry.

59. Process for manufacturing the thermal storage system according to anyone of claims 1 to 56, by using assembling methods such as extrusion, melding and screwing.

60.A high efficiency system, according to anyone of 1 to 5 and 7 to 15, wherein:
- the fluid circulating in the first circular tube is the same that the fluid circulating in the second tube ; or - the fluid circulating in the first circular tube is the different of the fluid circulating in the second tube; or - the fluid circulating in the first circular tube is the same that the fluid circulating in the second tube ; or and - the fluid circulating in the first circular tube is the different of the fluid circulating in the second tube.

61.A high efficiency system, according to anyone of 1 to 28 and 30 to 56, wherein, in the one-piece radiator/heat exchanger,:
- the fluid circulating in the first circular tube is the same that the fluid circulating in the second tube ; or - the fluid circulating in the first circular tube is the different of the fluid circulating in the second tube; or - the fluid circulating in the first circular tube is the same that the fluid circulating in the second tube ; or - the fluid circulating in the first circular tube is the different of the fluid circulating in the second tube;
- the fluid circulating in the first circular tube is the same that the fluid circulating in the third tube ; or - the fluid circulating in the first circular tube is the different of the fluid circulating in the third tube; or - the fluid circulating in the first circular tube is the same that the fluid circulating in the third tube; or - the fluid circulating in the first circular tube is the different of the fluid circulating in the third tube.

62.A high efficiency system, according to claim 29 to 56, wherein, in the one-piece radiator/heat exchanger, the fluid and its state, gaseous, liquid or solid, in the central triangular tube defined by the wall of the rectangular tubes, is the same or different from the fluid or from the state of the fluid circulating in the circular or rectangular tubes.

63. A high efficiency system, according to anyone of claims 1 to 7 and 10 to 56, wherein the concentrating solar dish unit assembly comprises at least:
- a rigid parabolic self-supporting mirror system, which mirror system can be made of various elementary mirrors having preferably the same features, particularly the same curves, to receive solar radiation and to concentrate at least portion of said solar radiation on said heat transfer collector;
- a reinforced structure for supporting said parabolic mirror, which reinforcing structure being positioned under said parabolic mirror and supporting part of the back of said rigid parabolic self-supporting mirror system, preferably said reinforced structure is a circular tube or a circular tube longitudinally cut in order to have 2 contact surfaces between said cut tube and the back of the said parabolic mirror, having an axis about parallel to the mirror axis;
- a heat transfer collector, preferably a heat transfer tube, positioned to receive light reflected from said parabolic solar collector, said heat transfer tube being positioned at a position that is about parallel to the axle of said parabolic mirror and that is sensibly constant relative to the spatial positioning of the parabolic self-supporting mirror;
- a heat transfer tube support positioned under said heat transfer tube for assuring support and rigidity of said heat transfer tube, preferably the heat transfer tube support is connected to said reinforced supporting structure;
- a structural rotational system that is a wheel system comprising at least two parallel external wheels having sensibly the same diameter and positioned at opposite extremities of said solar dish unit;
- a mechanical system connected to the said structural wheel system for positioning said dish unit according to the position of the solar beam comprising a motor that may be positioned in the calo-arm; and - a beam detection system and a conversion unit for providing said mechanical system with instructions foe positioning said structural wheel system.