Inspection of dynamic modelling and control of a parabolic trough solar collector

Solar energy conversion to thermal energy has enormous potential for meeting the need for heat energy in a variety of applications. A parabolic trough solar collector (PTSC) has proven to be effective in solar to thermal conversion. Installing a PTSC to service a specific application necessitates a large setup and significant cost, so it would be beneficial if such system analytically tested and optimized beforehand. As a result, the study relating to finding the options that might assist in improving the PTSC performance becomes critical. Modelling the PTSC is one such useful way that can assess it and suggest possible changes. Thus, surveying the literature in this area becomes equally important. This study attempts to explore the potential of dynamic modelling of PTSC's and its control mechanisms. A summary of the prospects for PTSC dynamic modelling is offered, a simplified basis is given to reader by covering the fundamentals of modelling methodologies, as well as the associated research that go along with them. Further, PTSC control components and improvements are investigated. Relevant discussion about the possibilities and limitations are provided, future scopes are also included.