Stretched-Membrane Heliostat Technology

Abstract

The stretched-membrane concept is a potentially low-cost and structurally efficient method of attaining and supporting a large, optically accurate surface for heliostat applications. In this concept, a high-strength structural film coated with a highly reflective surface is stretched uniformly on a torroidal frame. Prior and current research, directed at allowing the full potential of this novel concept to be realized, is described. Technical issues and results described include membrane attachment approaches, focusing, and the numerous structural response mechanisms specific to this concept.