Simplified analytical model to describe wind loads and wind-induced tracking deviations of heliostats

Abstract

Wind-induced tracking deviations of heliostats can be analyzed through numerical simulations or experimental studies on a full-scale heliostat. However, these methods are relatively costly and often, simpler estimations are necessary and sufficient. One simpler approach is to use an analytical model that describes the wind-induced tracking deviations and which requires only a few input parameters that can be determined through straightforward measurements at the full-scale heliostat. Therefore, this paper presents the derivation of an analytical model and describes the development process in a detailed way to clarify the necessary assumptions and simplifications. For verification purposes, the developed model is furthermore applied to measurement data of a field study. It is shown that the results of the model application agree well with the expectations and that the measured heliostat response matches the predicted response well, provided the underlying assumptions of the model fully apply to the investigated heliostat. Overall, no unexplainable inconsistencies are identified and the results support the model well. Thus, a method is provided which allows the estimation and prediction of wind-induced tracking deviations with comparatively little effort. In addition, the developed model helps to identify and analyze those parameters that have the greatest impact on the wind-induced tracking deviations of different types of heliostats.