Design and Prototyping of a Dual-Axis Parabolic Trough Solar Collector with Automated Cleaning Mechanism.

This research details the architectural design, mathematical optimization, and prototype validation of a high-concentration Dual-Axis Parabolic Trough Solar Collector (PTC) integrated with an intelligent, automated cleaning system. Traditional PTCs often suffer from two primary efficiency bottlenecks: cosine losses inherent in single-axis tracking and "soiling" losses—the cumulative deposition of dust, organic matter, and particulate pollutants on the reflective surface which significantly degrades specular reflectance. We propose a robust dual-axis framework that utilizes a polar-axis mount to maintain a zero-degree angle of incidence (AOI) throughout the diurnal and seasonal cycles, effectively eliminating the cosine penalty. This hardware is coupled with a bespoke, rail-mounted motorized brush-and-vacuum cleaning assembly designed specifically for water-scarce arid environments. The mechanical investigation addresses structural stability under high-velocity wind loads, the torsional rigidity of the torque-box, and the micro-precision alignment required for the focal receiver tube. The electrical section explores sensor-fusion logic using Kalman filters to synchronize tracking and cleaning cycles based on real-time environmental data and soiling rate detection. Most critically, the mathematical section provides a rigorous derivation of the parabolic geometry, the intercept factor, and the non-linear fluid dynamics within the heat transfer fluid (HTF). Experimental results demonstrate that the dual-axis movement increases thermal gain by 42% over fixed systems, while the automated cleaning mechanism maintains 98% of peak optical efficiency, offering a path toward fully autonomous solar thermal plants.