Metrology-assisted robotic mirror alignment for parabolic trough collectors
- Sunvapor, Inc., Pasadena, CA (United States)
This report describes in detail a project that assesses the potential of a robot guided by metrology to perform the positioning and installation of mirror brackets on a Parabolic Trough Collector. We are proposing a novel method of assembling Parabolic Trough Collectors that has the potential to nearly eliminate labor from the critical mirror alignment process (which determines the optical performance), resulting in significant cost savings, quality improvements, and greater safety. This method takes advantage of modern developments in metrology-guided robot assembly that are making inroads in aerospace assembly, with similar tolerance requirements. It also allows a mobile solution which can be rapidly set up for each additional project site. This is especially important for smaller industrial projects (~ < 50 MWth). The methods developed under this project are expected to have broader applicability in precision automated construction.
- Research Organization:
- Sunvapor, Inc., Pasadena, CA (United States)
- Sponsoring Organization:
- USDOE Office of Science (SC), Engineering & Technology. Office of Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) and Small Business Technology Transfer (STTR) Programs
- DOE Contract Number:
- SC0018762
- OSTI ID:
- 1669213
- Type / Phase:
- SBIR (Phase II)
- Report Number(s):
- DOE-SUNVAPOR-18762
- Country of Publication:
- United States
- Language:
- English
Similar Records
Wind Loading on Parabolic Trough Collectors: Wind and Structural Loads Measurements at an Operational Powerplant
Parabolic trough solar collector