| Abstract: | The geometrical profile of a seasonally adjusted solar concentrator composed of plane mirror elements and employing a tubular absorber has been optimized. The procedure maximizes concentration for any specified number of mirror elements, and for acceptance angle, with the height of the concentrator or the reflector area as a constraint. The geometrical characteristics of the optimal concentrators have been analysed in detail. The results for a tubular absorber are compared with those for a flat horizontal absorber. Detailed results for a wide range of number of mirror elements, reflector heights, and reflector areas are provided as a design aid. Designs using a glazed tubular absorber are also considered. |
