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On 4 November 2024, three heliostat prototypes have been successfully assembled and installed at the Proteas research facility, marking a significant step forward in SmartHelio project. Over the next three months, these advanced systems will undergo rigorous testing to evaluate their performance and ability to meet the project’s ambitious objectives. Conducted by the skilled Proteas research team, this installation represents a leap toward smarter, more efficient solar energy solutions.
On Wednesday, October 16, 2024, a manufacturing follow-up meeting was held at NKFC, bringing together researchers from The Cyprus Institute and NKFC representatives. During the meeting, the design team engaged in close collaboration with the manufacturer to review the progress of the metallic structure's fabrication and ensure alignment with project objectives.
Key Meeting Highlights
- Progress Updates: Review the current status of the metallic structure and ensure it aligns with the project timeline.
- Design Alignment: Confirm that the fabrication matches the approved design, focusing on key details like dimensions, materials, and assembly techniques.
- Problem-Solving: Address any challenges or modifications needed to adapt the design to real-world conditions without compromising quality.
- Quality Assurance: Assess welds, finishes, and overall workmanship to ensure durability and compliance with standards.
- Collaboration & Feedback: Exchange ideas between the design team and manufacturer to optimize the process and achieve the best results.
On Friday, November 1st 2024, researchers from The Cyprus Institute, representatives from NKFC, and Novatex convened to address the integration of three heliostat prototypes at the PROTEAS facility. The meeting provided a platform to evaluate progress, discuss challenges, and propose actionable solutions to optimize performance and streamline deployment.
Key Meeting Highlights
The consortium reviewed the design, manufacturing, and testing phases of the heliostat pilot. Detailed assessments of the pilot installation at The Cyprus Institute revealed some operational anomalies. Discussions focused on:
- Addressing Observed Issues: Participants identified root causes of detected anomalies, including minor alignment inconsistencies and mechanical adjustments, and proposed corrective measures.
- Simplifying System Design: Strategies to refine the structural and mechanical components for easier assembly and maintenance were outlined.
- Improving System Efficiency: Enhancements to the reflective surface quality and tracking accuracy were discussed to boost energy capture.
- Ensuring Compatibility and Consistency: The team emphasizestandardizing components to facilitate seamless integration and maintain uniform performance across installations.
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Practical Outcomes and Next Steps
The meeting concluded with an actionable plan to integrate the heliostat prototypes at the PROTEAS facility. Participants outlined steps for:
- Refining the prototypes based on feedback from testing.
- Coordinating installation timelines and on-site evaluations.
- Developing protocols for long-term monitoring and performance validation.
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Meeting and discussion at The Cyprus Institute meeting room 
Meeting and discussion
On July 5, 2024, another consortium meeting took place at The Cyprus Institute. The main effort of this meeting was the evaluation of the first pilot heliostat which is under testing at the CYI Athalassas' Heliostat Testing Facility. This collaborative effort delved into crucial aspects of the heliostat's design structure, mirror manipulation mechanism, and mechanical control system and strategy.
The discussions were marked by a comprehensive analysis of the testing results, revealing significant insights into the heliostat's performance under various conditions, which led to signinfigant decision on the optimization of the heliostat's design and operational characteristics.
20th June 2024
Within the framework of a summer school organised by the TREATY project (Nurturing Deep Tech Talents for Clean & Sustainable Energy Transition / https://www.linkedin.com/company/treaty-project/), the Principal Investigator and Coordinator of the SmartHelio project delivered a lecture on ''Heliostat Field Innovation'', highlighting the key enabling technologies being developed within the SmartHelio project.
18th June 2024
On June18th, 2024, we were privileged to host members of the Cyprus Union of Solar Thermal Industrialists (EBHEK) and the Cyprus Employers & Industrialists Federation (OEB) - Ομοσπονδία Εργοδοτών & Βιομηχάνων (ΟΕΒ) at our PROTEAS facility
The visit's primary goal was to provide an in-depth overview of our pioneering work and research in renewable energy, particularly in Concentrated Solar Thermal technologies.
This gathering was a remarkable opportunity to spark collaboration and innovation within the solar energy sector.
The SmartHelio project is committed to advancing concentrated solar thermal technologies and sharing our breakthroughs with industry leaders and stakeholders. The visit provided an excellent platform to showcase our cutting-edge research and discuss future opportunities for collaboration.
One of our core missions is to bridge the gap between academia and industry. By fostering close ties with industry partners, we ensure that our research is not only groundbreaking but also practical and applicable in real-world scenarios. This synergy accelerates the adoption of innovative solutions, driving the future of sustainable energy in Cyprus and beyond.
# Cyprus Union of Solar Thermal Industrialists (EBHEK)
# Cyprus Employers & Industrialists Federation (OEB) - Ομοσπονδία Εργοδοτών & Βιομηχάνων (ΟΕΒ).
# ELCORA LIMITED
# "ΘΗΛΕΝ" Αντωνίου & Χρίστου Ηλιακά Συστήματα Λτδ
# Johnsun Heaters Ltd
# SUNERGY ltd
# Theochalko Solar Ltd
# Thriamvos Solar Heaters Ltd,
# Velpa solar ltd
27th March 2024
The fourth consortium held at the NKMC Metal Manufacturing Facilities, it delved into critical reflections on manufacturing design solutions, reverse engineering, and cost management strategies. This collaborative session aimed to enhance manufacturing efficiency, optimize resource utilization, and drive cost-effective practices, ensuring the success of the SmartHelio project.
Key Reflections and Discussions:
- Manufacturing and design Solutions: Explored innovative design solutions to streamline manufacturing processes, improve product quality, and reduce production time.
- Reverse Engineering: Discussed the implementation of reverse engineering techniques to analyze existing products, identify inefficiencies, and propose optimized solutions.
- Cost Management: Evaluated cost management strategies to control expenses, maximize resource utilization, and enhance overall project profitability.
- Supply Chain Optimization: Analyzed supply chain dynamics to identify opportunities for optimization, including vendor consolidation, inventory management, and logistics enhancements.
- Technology Integration: Explored opportunities to integrate advanced technologies to enhance manufacturing capabilities and efficiency.
- Quality Assurance: Emphasized the importance of robust quality assurance measures to ensure product reliability, and compliance with industry standards.
- Sustainability Initiatives: Considered sustainability initiatives, such as energy-efficient manufacturing processes, waste reduction measures, and eco-friendly materials, to align with environmental objectives.
- Risk Assessment and Mitigation: Conducted an advanced risk assessments to identify potential manufacturing risks and developed proactive mitigation strategies to minimize disruptions and ensure project continuity.
- Collaborative Partnerships: Strengthened collaborative partnerships between research institutions, industrial partners to foster innovation, knowledge sharing, and mutual support.
13th December 2023
This third consortium meeting at the NKMC Metal Manufacturing Facilities focused on the critical aspects of manufacturing execution for the SmartHelio project. It details the manufacturing processes, ensuring alignment with project goals, and setting the stage for successful implementation.
Key Activities and Discussions:
- Manufacturing Workflow Optimization: Discussed strategies for optimizing the manufacturing workflow to enhance efficiency and reduce production time.
- Process Standardization: Established standardized processes and protocols to ensure consistency and quality across all manufacturing activities.
- Quality Control Measures: Implemented rigorous quality control measures to maintain high standards and ensure product reliability.
- Supply Chain Management: Reviewed and optimized the supply chain to ensure timely procurement of materials and components.
- Equipment and Technology Integration: Evaluated the integration of technical equipment and technologies solutions to improve manufacturing capabilities.
- Workforce Training and Development: Planned comprehensive training programs for the workforce to ensure proficiency in new technologies and processes.
- Environmental and Safety Standards: Ensured compliance with environmental regulations and implemented safety protocols to protect workers and the environment.
- Continuous Improvement: Established a framework for continuous improvement, encouraging regular reviews and updates to manufacturing processes.
11th September 2023
The second consortium meeting with industrial partners, held at NKMC Metal Manufacturing Facilities. This meeting was dedicated to reviewing feedback from our previous session, identifying key challenges, and devising effective risk mitigation strategies. The discussions were instrumental in refining our project approach and enhancing collaborative efforts.
Key Activities and Discussions:
- Feedback Session: Conducted comprehensive feedback talks to review insights and outcomes from the previous meeting.
- Challenges Identification: Identified critical challenges impacting the project's progress and success.
- Risk Assessment and Mitigation: Evaluated potential risks and developed robust mitigation strategies to address them.
- Technical Updates: Shared updates on recent technical developments and breakthroughs within the project.
- Resource Allocation: Discussed the allocation of resources to ensure optimal project execution and efficiency.
- Quality Assurance: Established quality assurance protocols to maintain high standards throughout the project phases.
- Stakeholder Engagement: Strengthened engagement with key stakeholders to foster continued support and collaboration.
- Innovation Strategies: Explored innovative strategies to overcome technical hurdles and drive project innovation.
- Future Milestones: Planned and set future milestones, ensuring a clear and achievable project timeline.
- Communication Enhancement: Enhanced communication channels to facilitate seamless information exchange and collaboration.
22nd May 2023
Consortium meeting at partner Nicolaides & Kountouris Metal Company LTD.
Technical meeting held with our esteemed industrial partners at the NKMC Metal Manufacturing Facilities. This crucial gathering facilitated the exchange of innovative ideas and collaborative efforts, aimed at addressing the complex challenges in the SmartHelio project. The meeting focused on practical technical solutions and strategic planning essential for advancing heliostat technology.
Key Activities and Discussions:
- Innovative Ideas and Brainstorming: Engaged in creative brainstorming sessions to generate cutting-edge concepts and strategies.
- Solution Selection: Evaluated and selected the most promising solutions for the project's technical challenges.
- Design Review: Conducted detailed reviews of preliminary designs to ensure alignment with project goals and technical requirements.
- Manufacturing Techniques: Explored advanced manufacturing techniques to enhance the production process and product quality.
- Assembly Processes: Discussed efficient assembly processes to streamline operations and improve efficiency.
- Mechatronics Integration: Deliberated on integrating mechatronic systems for optimal performance and reliability.
- Prototyping and Testing: Planned prototyping phases and testing protocols to validate design and functionality.
- Project Timeline and Milestones: Reviewed the project timeline, established key milestones, and assigned responsibilities to ensure steady progress.
- Collaboration and Communication: Strengthened collaboration mechanisms and communication channels between research and industrial partners.
27th March 2023
The kick-off meeting of the SmartHelio project, took place at 27th of March at The Cyprus Institute’s PROTEAS facility at Pentakomo.
It brought together experts from industry and research institution to discuss innovative strategies and collaboration. The meeting featured dynamic discussions and insightful presentations, laying the groundwork for the project's future endeavors.
Key Topics Covered:
- Project Overview and Objectives: Comprehensive introduction to SmartHelio's goals and expected impact on solar energy technology.
- Innovative Technology Solutions: Exploration of cutting-edge technologies and methodologies to enhance heliostat technology.
- Collaboration Strategies: Discussion on fostering effective partnerships between industrial and research participants to drive project success.
- Data Analytics and Monitoring: Insights into advanced data analytics tools and monitoring systems for real-time performance tracking and optimization.
- Sustainability and Environmental Impact: Examination of the project's contributions to sustainable energy practices and environmental conservation.
- Funding and Resource Allocation: Outline of funding opportunities, resource management, and allocation strategies to support project activities.
- Timeline and Milestones: Detailed project timeline with key milestones and deliverables to ensure systematic progress and achievement of goals.