Mathematical Model Of Heliostat Reflective Surface Deformation

Optimum design of isolated units or fields of heliostats is depend upon obtaining realistic design of wind loads, gravity loads and thermal stresses. The stationary and dynamic effects of wind will be an important factor for heliostats. Some experts have conducted a series of field measurements and wind tunnel tests for determining different wind load configurations on heliostats. A monitoring program covered six-year period from 1986 to 1992 which focused on the issues of heliostat beam quality, mirror module performance and durability, tracking accuracy, dynamic wind effects, and overall operational and maintenance characteristics. The present work is a simplified method of estimating the deformation of heliostat due to gravity loads and thermal stresses and static wind loads by establishing a mathematical model of different loads affecting the deformation of heliostat reflective surface modules.