Concentrated Solar Tracking using In-Line Differential Thermal Measurements

Abstract

This thesis presents the design and analysis of a temperature-driven tracking system for a parabolic dish solar collector, aiming to enhance tracking precision and energy efficiency in concentrated solar power (CSP) applications. The collector’s two-axis tracking is guided by differential temperature measurements from an array of thermocouples surrounding the focal point, providing real-time feedback on solar alignment through temperature gradients. This approach allows for continuous and adaptive tracking, optimizing the dish positioning and thus maximizing solar output as the sun sweeps the sky.This study explores the theoretical principles underpinning CSP and feedback control to make predictions and provide context for experimental system performance. An experimental prototype system was constructed and tested to validate the tracking approach feasibility and assess energy capture potential. The results demonstrate that thermocouple-based tracking achieves high precision and reliability, so it is a viable technology worthy of further consideration for commercial adoption. This novel method could serve as a robust, low-cost fine tracking system to complement or supplant existing CSP tracking systems, enhancing overall system efficiency and operational resilience.