Solar Energy Collection Devices

Abstract

Devices and methods for collecting solar energy using photovoltaic material are disclosed.

1 . A solar collection device, comprising a concentrator having an exposure area; and PV material having a collection area; wherein the collection area is greater than the exposure area. 
     
     
         2 . The solar collection device of claim  111 , wherein the concentrator is a rod lens. 
     
     
         3 . The solar collection device of claim  111 , wherein the exposure area receives refracted light. 
     
     
         4 . A non-tracking solar collection system, comprising: concentrators positioned relative to PV material such that at least a portion of the light collected by the concentrators is directed at PV material, wherein the acceptance angle for the solar collection device is such that the at least a portion of the collected light directed at PV material is approximately constant as the sun's apparent position changes. 
     
     
         5 . The non-tracking solar collection device of claim  114 , further including a means for increasing the acceptance angle including configuring the concentrators for rotational displacement as the sun's position changes. 
     
     
         6 . The non-tracking solar collection device of claim  115 , wherein the PV material rotates with the concentrator. 
     
     
         7 . The non-tracking solar collection device of claim  116 , wherein the concentrator approximates a cylindrical lens formed as a rod.