ProjectSunFlower

Project SunFlower

Solar Collector
Any device that focuses the thermal energy from sunlight is a solar collector. The ability to multiply sunlight energy by focusing the rays can be very powerful. In theory, temperatures higher than the surface of the sun can be achieved. Melting metal is not difficult. There are several ways to use solar thermal energy. We are only concerned with heating the hot side of a Stirling Engine.

Stirling Engine
A stirling engine is a type of engine with a hot side and a cold side. It will begin to self pump. The greater the temperature extreme the greater the engine strength. We will use the engine output to create electrical power.

Solar Stirling
A mirrored satellite dish can focus sunshine upon the hot side of a stirling engine. The cool side vents to ambient air. The output can turn a permanent magnetic motor electric generator. The electricity can be used immediately or stored.

Sunflower
The sunflower plant naturally tracks the sun during the day and resets at night so it is again ready and waiting for the morning sun.

Project SunFlower
A world bound by energy crisis longs for true energy freedom. Can 10' of sunlight generate 3 kilowatts of power? Sounds to good to be true! Current theory and data supports that an 8'-10' solar stirling can generate 3-5 kilowatts of power. Cost projections range between $7K - $15K. Sunlight is true energy freedom.

Creating a solar stirling is the single most important thing I can and will accomplish. Progress is slow and steady. Perhaps more will see the light and join efforts to see this to market. Instead of asking the obvious: "When will this be available?" perhaps consider asking: "How can I help this project along?".

Stirling One
D3's initial engine concept, although more efficient, lacked in some areas of design and was to advanced for a first build and prototype proof.

Stirling Two
A rhombic drive stirling design was selected and concepted. The design on paper was finished. Materials have been purchased and machining has begun. We expect 1-2 kilowatts of power. Much of Stirling Two has been disclosed into the public domain. The 6" diameter head contains: a single 3.5" piston with a 3.6" throw. Materials are paid for. I have already afforded $4.5K of the project budget.

Z4 Stirling Engine
Advances in technology prompted us to revisit Stirling One ahead of schedule. The working design is not yet completed on paper, but enough is concepted and is solid. I wish I could share more, man, if you could see this.... It is very exciting. This design will be disclosed in detail when we have substantial supporting evidence. Rough project cost for Stirling One (best guess) is $10K - $30K.

The size of this design is half that of Stirling Two- very compact! It has four 2" pistons, each with upper and lower cylinders. However, Stirling One's output is nearly thrice that of Stirling Two. Our lower gear assembly has been named "LP Drive". There are no lateral forces on the piston seals- NONE! Per my request and R&D design, each LP drive is laterally balanced and capable of extreme RPM. The four drives are 90* out of phase and thus, by design, this engine is perfectly balanced. Harmonic vibrations are minimal and can be quieted if warrented. Nominal RPM will suffice for the upper pressure limitations and efficiency targets. The 8" diameter head contains: Four 2" pistons (8 cylinders) with 2" throws, in our "Z4" pattern.

The Z4 Engine is strong. It will likely find applications outside of solar.