Researches on the development of an optical system for improving the efficiency of photovoltaic panels

Abstract

The paper aims to create a unit using Fresnel lenses. This module consist of an arrangement of planar-convex Fresnel lenses, made of methyl polymethacrylate, mounted in a hexagonal raster and bent to form a dome for collecting and amplifying solar radiation at several focal points and with the possibility of adjusting the focal distance. The module has three aluminum alloy legs that are vertically adjustable. This construction using Fresnel lenses mounted in a hexagonal raster will increase the energy collected by a photovoltaic panel, thus significantly reducing energy losses and long-term costs. Compared to normal lenses, these lenses are considerably lighter because the material in the center of the lens is reduced, and for manufacturing can be used methyl polymethacrylate or polycarbonate, thus greatly reducing manufacturing costs. To show the functioning of the unit the authors presents in the paper a MATLAB simulation of the Fresnel lens model and a ray propagation.