Japan’s physics and chemistry research institute designs a cogeneration system using solar Fresnel lenses
Working in partnership with Davinci, a company based in Yamatotakada City, Nara Prefecture, the Japan Institute of Physical Chemistry has developed an innovative system that utilizes Fresnel lenses to capture and convert solar thermal energy throughout the day. This system not only heats water stored in a hot tank but also provides a combined heat and power (CHP) solution, generating both electricity and hot water efficiently. The core of this system lies in its use of Fresnel lenses, which are engraved with concentric circular grooves and shaped into a cube. These lenses are capable of capturing sunlight from sunrise to sunset, regardless of the angle of incidence. This design eliminates the need for complex solar tracking systems, making the technology more cost-effective and versatile. The lenses are highly efficient, thin, and feature a surface roughness of just 20 nanometers—produced using advanced precision techniques originally designed for high-energy cosmic ray observation. The structure, known as the "Fresnel Sun House," incorporates these lenses on both the top and sides of the cube. Inside the cube, an inverted T-shaped heat exchanger made of aluminum alloy is positioned to receive the concentrated light. This setup ensures that heat can be effectively captured whether the sunlight comes from above or the side. Below the heat exchanger, a thermal storage tank filled with water stores the heated liquid, ready to be used when needed. This stored hot water is then directed to a rotary heat engine developed by Da Vinci. The engine uses a Freon-based medium that vaporizes under heat, driving the engine through changes in cylinder volume. This process allows for efficient electricity generation even at low temperatures—down to around 40°C. As a result, the system achieves high thermal efficiency without relying on high-pressure or high-temperature sources. One of the key advantages of this cogeneration system is its ability to harness solar energy without the need for expensive tracking mechanisms. It also offers stable energy storage through the thermal tank, allowing for on-demand usage. Looking ahead, Riken plans to deploy this system as a decentralized power source, especially in areas with unused land. In 2013, they aim to introduce a 1 kW trial unit, followed by a 10 kW demonstration model in 2014, marking a significant step toward sustainable and accessible solar energy solutions. 2 Flutes Spot Drills for Aluminum,HRC58 Spot Drills for Aluminum,Tungsten Carbide Spot Drills for Aluminum Suzhou Meiwei Cutting Tools LTD , https://www.meiweitools.com