GrassHopper
26-04-10, 11:05 PM
I've just ordered a parabolic reflector, can't wait for it to arrive. Anyway, as with most things I like to get into how shit works and I'm sure most of you stoners are the same, lol. So I've been trying to find some info on how they work.
Now I remember from school about parabolas and x and y axis and all the rest as in the diagram http://images4.wikia.nocookie.net/__cb20080728030646/solarcooking/images/f/fd/Parabolic_diagram_1.jpg
I've found a very basic little applet (http://www.analyzemath.com/parabola/parabola.html) that demonstrates how it works, it is VERY basic lol.
Thing is, everything I find has to do with Antennas and Solar Cookers which collect rays of sun in the solar cooker and whatever rays from satellaites etc for the antenna - you with me so far? lol.
So am I correct in thinking that the lamp is the focal point and rays from the lamp are bounced off the wall of the parabola? ie. working opposite to the satellite dish and solar cooker?
Also, as the lamp is in a vertical position ie. following the y axis, mean that light is not only coming from the focal point but some inches either side causing light to scatter when reflected off the parabola?
Also, anyone used CFLs in 'em? I was wondering if a 300w or even bigger if they exist, would work as well as a HPS or is that just defeating the object?
Any info/experience on this would be good.
Now I remember from school about parabolas and x and y axis and all the rest as in the diagram http://images4.wikia.nocookie.net/__cb20080728030646/solarcooking/images/f/fd/Parabolic_diagram_1.jpg
I've found a very basic little applet (http://www.analyzemath.com/parabola/parabola.html) that demonstrates how it works, it is VERY basic lol.
Thing is, everything I find has to do with Antennas and Solar Cookers which collect rays of sun in the solar cooker and whatever rays from satellaites etc for the antenna - you with me so far? lol.
So am I correct in thinking that the lamp is the focal point and rays from the lamp are bounced off the wall of the parabola? ie. working opposite to the satellite dish and solar cooker?
Also, as the lamp is in a vertical position ie. following the y axis, mean that light is not only coming from the focal point but some inches either side causing light to scatter when reflected off the parabola?
Also, anyone used CFLs in 'em? I was wondering if a 300w or even bigger if they exist, would work as well as a HPS or is that just defeating the object?
Any info/experience on this would be good.