Line-Focus Photovoltaic Module With Solid Secondary Optics

The figure illustrates aspects of a lightweight, relatively inexpensive solar photovoltaic module suitable for use on Earth or in outer space in conjunction with at least a single-axis Sun-tracking apparatus. The module contains line-focus primary Fresnel lenses that act in conjunction with spot-focus, compound parabolic secondary solid optics to concentrate incident sunlight onto tandem, paired GaAs and GaSb photovoltaic cells arrayed along the focal lines. The tandem-photovoltaic-cell design and the optical and electrical configurations are combined to obtain high energy-conversion efficiency. In addition, the incorporation of the secondary solid optics increases resistance to ionizing radiation.