An integral methodology is formulated to analytically derive the exact profile of a solar trough concentrator that delivers a uniform radiative flux distribution over a flat rectangular target area at the focal plane. The Monte Carlo ray-tracing technique is applied to verify the analytical solution and investigate the effect of sun shape and mirror surface imperfections on the radiation uniformity and spillage. This design is pertinent to concentrating photovoltaics at moderate mean solar flux concentration ratios of up to 50 suns.

Issue Section:
Technical Briefs
Keywords:
focal planes, mirrors, Monte Carlo methods, ray tracing, solar absorber-convertors
Topics:
Solar energy, Mirrors, Ray tracing
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 by American Society of Mechanical Engineers
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