Architectonic Studies with Selected Reflector Concentrating Solar Collectors

Solar concentrating collectors with reflectors are a developing technology for thermal applications that can be useful to avoid fossil fuel greenhouse gas emissions, reduce demand for imported fuels and lessen biomass burning. The selected reflector concentrators for building integration studies are: fixed nonimaging compound parabolic concentrator (CPC) E-W line troughs, (building interior with evacuated tubes [ET] for the Temperate Zone, and exterior for the Tropics) with N-S involutes and adjustable end “wall” reflector options; and two-axis tracking small heliostats central receiver tower systems. When these reflector concentrating collector systems are integrated within building form, structure, and site planning, they are one of the main organizing design influences—an essential aspect of conceptual design. Schematic architectonic design studies are presented for mid temperature process heat applications beyond temperatures delivered with typical flat-plate thermal collectors (>≈80°C/176°F). Relations between: solar collector technologies, CPC optical characterization, daylighting, building structure, construction, site planning, and interior space usage are discussed for selected building types. These include CPC solar community and institutional kitchens for the Tropics, and house-size verification facilities with building interior ET and reflectors for the Temperate Zone.