Heliostat Design

1
Heliostat Design
Das, Horvat, Martinez, Slingsby
Objectives
System Design
Design a small scale prototype that emulates
elements with the final heliostat design, such as
data acquisition, error calculation, and mirror
movement.
System uses a stepper motor, accelerometer and
MRK board/microcontroller. Accelerometer is used
to calculate angular position, while stepper
motor actuates rotational movement of the mirror.
Results
System works, but with a severely retarded level
of accuracy. Improvements could include better
sensor/signal conditioning, second axis of
rotation, and ballast movement (vs. stepper
motor).