Combined solar energy conversion and structural and mechanical beam and structures built therefrom

Abstract From the Canadian patent

Abstract Of The Disclosure Disclosed is a combined solar energy conversion and structural and mechanical beam. The beam comprises a pre-engineered structural and mechanical component which includes a solar energy collector or distributor and can be used to erect a complete structure or as retrofite hardware for existing buildings or structures. In one embodiment the solar collector portion of the beam consists of a highly polished parabolic concentrator within a channelshaped portion of the beam, an absorber tube disposed within the concentrator for retaining the fluid to be heated and an optical or fresnel lens positioned over the open side of the beam to further concentrate the sun and …