Parabolic Trough Surface form Mapping Using Photogrammetry and its Validation with a Large Coordinate Measuring Machine

Abstract This paper describes the development of an inexpensive, highly portable photogrammetry technique for measuring the position and form of large mirror segments for solar collectors. The accuracy of the technique has been validated using a large Coordinate Measuring Machine (CMM) with results showing a measurement capability of better than 100 μm. The surface form and resulting slope errors of the parabolic troughs have been measured and the impact of the mirror support system determined. This paper contains the results of photogrammetry and CMM comparison with details of the measurements, their analysis and further related experimental results obtained using both measurement techniques.