Progress in the development of a laser and camera system for the calibration of heliostat fields of central receiver systems: Part 2

This work presents an update on the progress of a heliostat field calibration system based on a central laser and camera method (CLCS). Results from indoor laboratory tests as well as an outdoor test are shown and discussed. The potential of the accuracy of the calibration method was assessed using an extended version of the Radon line detection algorithm which led to promising results. Moreover, current opinions are presented regarding ways to realise a potential deployment of a laser and camera system in a heliostat field in the future, but more work is required, especially with respect to laser safety, which is of utmost importance and by far the biggest challenge. Regarding the camera type, an image intensifier camera has the highest potential to be deployed in a future CLCS due to various advantages compared to non-intensified scientific cameras. A follow-on R&D project will be necessary to further investigate and optimise the CLCS.