To improve photovoltaic system efficiencies, concentrating spectral dividers are used to separate solar light, and to focus each spectral portion onto photovoltaic cells of matching spectral response. In this investigation, an optical analysis is developed to study the feasibility for use of a Fresnel half-lens as a concentrating spectral divider. To facilitate the analysis, an existing curved-base linear Fresnel lens ray-trace model has been modified and expanded. Solar limb-darkening has been incorporated into the theory by means of a digitized sun model. The lens model allows for variation of lens geometrical characteristics. Transmission losses due to Fresnel reflection and bulk absorption are taken into account. The distribution of the concentrated solar flux in the lens image plane is modeled such that spectral regions may be examined separately. Concentration ratio profiles are used to derive and evaluate a quantity of spectral separation.A computer program has been used to generate data, based on the theoretical model, for example lenses. The spectral separation, transmission and concentration properties for each example lens have been systematically studied with respect to lens geometry. The effects of solar limb-darkening are determined by comparison with the data from a model that assumes a uniform solar source. Results of the study are discussed in detail.Ball State UniversityMuncie, IN 47306
| Identifer | oai:union.ndltd.org:BSU/oai:cardinalscholar.bsu.edu:handle/183347 |
| Date | 03 June 2011 |
| Creators | Conte, Jeffrey E. |
| Contributors | Cosby, Ronald M. |
| Source Sets | Ball State University |
| Detected Language | English |
| Format | 212 leaves in various foliations : ill. ; 28 cm. |
| Source | Virtual Press |
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