Design charts for Scheffler reflector

This paper presents parametric design charts for the Scheffler reflector, which has distinctive advantages such as flexible surface curvature, fixed focal area and shadow less concentration over other solar concentrators. Manufacturers would require design charts for quick estimation of various design parameters like section plane angle, concentration ratio and dimensions of crossbars for the Scheffler reflectors. The input parameters required for the development of design charts are aperture area and focal length, which are dependent on customers' need. The governing equations of the Scheffler reflector have been solved iteratively to obtain the design parameters, which are then used to develop various design charts. Due to design constraints of the Scheffler reflector, inclination angle could not be varied beyond the range of 42° to 44.9°. Error due to circular approximation of crossbars is quantified and is found to be insignificant. A general equation for seasonal change in parabolic profile of the Scheffler reflector has been proposed. Further, a simplified equation for concentration ratio has also been developed to ease the design process.