A lightweight, reconfigurable reflector array. Rotating strips with more than one working surface let a single structure be set up for different jobs, and it is designed to be built with workshop tooling.
Fig. 2B — Array of parallel reflector stripsSimple, adjustable and easy to build.
The array is made of long, parallel strips that rotate. Aiming the array is a matter of turning strips, not moving the whole structure.
Each strip has several working faces, so the same hardware can be switched to suit different conditions.
A truss framework keeps the structure stiff and light, and can be fabricated in an ordinary workshop.
Capturing, aiming and focusing energy that travels as light or radio waves.
Arrays can gather sunlight and concentrate it on a heat store, such as salt or rock, for later use.
Two sites in view of each other can pass concentrated energy between them with mirrors instead of cables.
Steerable flat mirrors can be added, on high ground for example, to extend reach and flexibility.
The strip has a triangular cross-section. Turning it presents a different face, so one strip can serve different purposes without being replaced.
Fig. 1: Strip cross-sectionThe strips are carried by a light truss framework. The result is a large, flat, accurate surface without a heavy support structure.
Fig. 2D: Space-frame detailThe drawings show arrays carried on a mast frame over a floating platform. They fit naturally with BioShip's other floating-platform designs.
Fig. 9B: Array on a platformClick any drawing to enlarge.
• Rotating multi-face strips
• Truss-frame support
• Workshop-built
• Platform-mountableTechnical details are shared under discussion. Get in touch to talk about applications, development or licensing.
Contact BioShipDescriptions are conceptual. No performance figures are claimed at this stage.