PROGRAM ASTEC (ADVANCED SOLAR TURBO ELECTRIC CONCEPT). PART 4. SOLAR COLLECTOR DEVELOPMENT SUPPORT TASKS. VOL. 1. OPTICAL PARAMETERS AFFECTING PETAL-TYPE SOLAR ENERGY CONCENTRATORS
Abstract
A preliminary study has been performed of the optical qualities and the behavior of large solar concentrators in terrestrial and space environments. The reflector is characterized by relatively large surface inaccuracies that cause unusual optical problems. The meaning of solar concentrator efficiency is discussed. The effects of geometric-optical aberrations and of surface reflectance upon efficiency are investigated. Concepts and implementations of methods for testing the geometric-optical surface quality are described, and a short commentary is devoted to surface reflectance tests. The mathematical bases for analyzing paraboloidal reflectors are developed and, to some extent, evaluated in appendixes. From the work completed, in general, it is concluded that geometric-optical analysis is needed to determine the effects of vignetting in the focal region by the heat-receiver aperture. Digital computer programs are to be developed for this analysis, employing good criteria for data acceptance/rejection or grouping. The important mathematical functions that describe primary geometrical contour errors and that have been derived as part of this study can serve as the basis for a number of criteria in subsequent studies. The geometric-optical and geometrical contour descriptions permit the correlation of environmental effects and specific concentrator and heat-receiver designs, in terms of achievable input temperatures.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Nov 01, 1965
- Accession Number
- AD0480100
Entities
People
- H. P. Greinel
- R. C. Redden
Organizations
- Lockheed Martin Missiles and Space