Configuration of a thin circular membrane subject to solar pressure

This paper addresses the preliminary design of a parabolic structure suitable for specific space applications, such as in solar power collector systems, which relies upon the sole use of an initially flat circular membrane rigidly constrained across its perimeter. In particular, the possibility for this concept to make use of solar pressure as a means of obtaining the intended parabolic curvature is explored. Assuming the membrane´s film as an ideally reflecting surface, parametric studies are conducted in order to determine several parameters of interest as functions of its radius and thickness. In order to do so, a set of numerical simulations are carried out using the finite element code ABAQUS®. It is shown that the shape of the deformed membrane is very close to parabolic, therefore being capable of concentrating sunlight power over a focal plane.