Analysis of parabolic trough concentrator mirror shape accuracy in laboratory and collector

The present thesis examines the in uence of measurement parameters and boundary conditions on shape accuracy of parabolic trough concentrator mirrors of RP3 geometry by means of optical measurements and nite element analyses. De ectometric measurements of mirror panels are performed in common laboratory setups: in vertical and horizontal measurement position, both with and without tightening the mirrors to a support frame with screws. The results serve for validation of nite element models which are applied to calculate the di erence in shape accuracy between, rstly, the individual setups and secondly, between mirrors horizontally xed to di erently rigid support frames. The e ect of angular deviations of the mounting pads is assessed. Gravity-induced deformation of mirrors mounted to two exemplary collector support structures is determined for the relevant working positions. The transferability of shape accuracy data measured in laboratory to data applying for mirrors mounted to a collector is assessed.