A Technology Development Methodology Developed for Application on the Solar Chimney Structure

Solar chimney power plants require dimensions exceeding current structural design limits for it to be economically feasible, thus calling for the scaling up of known technology and the implementation of newer technologies, pushing forward technological boundaries. This paper proposes a process for the management of the technological development required to move toward realization of the chimney structure of the solar chimney. The technology development methodology (TDM) is developed as such a management process which quantifies high-level system performance while, subsequently, measuring the effect of low-level technological advance on the system. In this way the effect of technological change on the performance of the system is quantified. The system analysis process provides the backbone for the TDM while management of technology extends the process. System analysis, decision making, technology identification, technology assessment and technology strategy methods from literature are reviewed in order to synthesize the TDM and define steps for its application. The implemented TDM should yield to the technology manager quantified insight into the technologies implemented in the system and their performance and level of development, providing a base for sound decision making