Need help developing an idea, solar energy heliostats

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SUMMARY

The discussion centers on the feasibility of using multiple heliostats to create two refraction points for solar energy concentration. The proposal suggests that the second heliostat could focus the solar beam downwards, potentially allowing for magnification at a secondary refraction point. Additionally, the idea of projecting the solar beam over long distances using a curved mirror or lens is explored. While the theoretical aspects are intriguing, practical implementation requires further clarification and understanding of optics.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of heliostat design and functionality
  • Basic principles of optics, including refraction and beam focusing
  • Knowledge of solar energy concentration techniques
  • Familiarity with curved mirrors and lenses in solar applications
NEXT STEPS
  • Research the design and operation of heliostats in solar energy systems
  • Study optical principles related to refraction and beam manipulation
  • Explore solar energy concentration methods, including parabolic mirrors
  • Investigate the use of lenses for long-distance solar beam projection
USEFUL FOR

Engineers, solar energy researchers, and anyone interested in innovative solar concentration techniques will benefit from this discussion.

dbalexanderr
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So i was wondering could you use two helio stats so there was two refraction points, the second one focusing the beam of solar energy back downwards? If so could you use multiple helio stats to meet at refraction point # 2 magnifying the beam that's pointed downwards? In theory it should work correct? Also, could this beam be projected over long distances from refraction point #1 to #2 if focused correctly by a curved mirror/ helio stat or lens? In theory it should work, correct? I'm no physics major I could use any feedback. Thank you!
 
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dbalexanderr said:
So i was wondering could you use two helio stats so there was two refraction points, the second one focusing the beam of solar energy back downwards? If so could you use multiple helio stats to meet at refraction point # 2 magnifying the beam that's pointed downwards? In theory it should work correct? Also, could this beam be projected over long distances from refraction point #1 to #2 if focused correctly by a curved mirror/ helio stat or lens? In theory it should work, correct? I'm no physics major I could use any feedback. Thank you!
Can you provide a diagram of what you mean? Your description isn't entirely clear, are you changing the direction the beam is propagating in more than once?
 

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