Cost analysis of a mini-facet heliostat

A significant problem with conventional heliostats is off-axis astigmatism, which increases the spot size at the central receiver, limiting the temperature and efficiency of solar thermal systems. Inspired by low-cost mini-actuators used for car wing mirrors, we examine the economic feasibility of a...

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Bibliographic Details
Main Authors: Hall, Colin, Pratt, Rodney, Farrant, David, Corsi, Clotilde, Pye, John, Coventry, Joe
Format: Conference Proceeding
Language:English
Subjects:
Astigmatism
Cost analysis
Heliostats
Solar heating
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Summary:A significant problem with conventional heliostats is off-axis astigmatism, which increases the spot size at the central receiver, limiting the temperature and efficiency of solar thermal systems. Inspired by low-cost mini-actuators used for car wing mirrors, we examine the economic feasibility of a heliostat with individually adjustable mini-facets to correct astigmatic effects, and we compare three alternative tracking configurations.
ISSN:0094-243X
1551-7616
DOI:10.1063/1.4984479