Cost estimation relationships of a small scale linear Fresnel reflector

This paper presents a cost estimating relationship (CER) of a novel small scale linear Fresnel reflector (SSLFR). The CER has been developed analyzing in detail the manufacturing processes of the SSLFR, its parameters, and the possible sub-components. As a result of this analysis, the SSLFR has been divided into 8 sub-components: fixed and mobile structures, movement units, mirror units, secondary reflector system, tracking system, assembly, and foundation. These sub-components are described in detail and designed using Autodesk Inventor, specifying manufacturing materials and processes. The study includes a full stress analysis of the sub-components, considering self weight, snow loads, and wind loads. For each sub-component an estimate of the primary costs is presented and also a relationship between the cost and the geometric parameters of the SSLFR. The primary costs considered include material, labor, and tooling costs. A numerical example shows the suitability of the proposed approach. (C) 2018 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.