A Parameter Optimization Design and Numerical Calculation Method for Circular Heliostat Field

Abstract

Solar energy is a low-carbon, eco-friendly, clean energy source that is easily converted into heat and electricity, making the study of solar thermal power generation technology of great significance and with broad application prospects. To improve the performance of solar power plants, it is necessary to reasonably arrange the light reflectors. Both denser heliostats are needed to ensure enough light can be concentrated into the solar collector, thereby improving the power of the power station; at the same time, waste of material must be prevented, striving to increase output thermal power per unit mirror area. This paper is based on the background of the 2023 CUMCM Problem A. Firstly, it analyzes parameters such as the optical efficiency of the original heliostat field, the annual average output power, and the annual average thermal power output per unit mirror area. Secondly, based on the data provided in the appendix, it analyzes the distribution pattern of the heliostat field and establishes an optimization design model for the heliostat field. Next, the optimization design model of the heliostat field is solved using discrete numerical calculation methods. Finally, according to the results of the model solution, the placement positions of the heliostats, the size of the mirrors, and the installation height are adjusted to improve the annual average thermal power output per unit mirror area, thereby achieving an optimized design of the heliostat field.