A spatially distributed concentrating energy system

Abstract

This invention relates to a space-distributed concentrated solar energy system, comprising: a power generation unit, an energy storage unit, a power management unit, and a space-based intelligent solar tracking mechanism. The power generation unit converts solar energy into electrical energy using concentrated solar power technology; the energy storage unit stores the electrical energy; the power generation unit is connected to the power management unit; the power management unit is connected to the energy storage unit and manages the electrical energy output by the power generation unit for collaborative storage in the energy storage unit; the power management unit is also connected to the space-based intelligent solar tracking mechanism and an external load system for power supply; wherein, the power generation unit includes: multiple sets of power generation modules and a support structure; the multiple sets of power generation modules are mounted on the support structure and connected to the power management unit. The energy system provided by this invention can improve the photoelectric conversion efficiency of solar cells and reduce equipment costs.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention belongs to the field of space energy technology, and in particular relates to a space-distributed concentrated light energy system. Background Technology

[0002] In today's aerospace field, space energy systems are crucial for the normal operation of spacecraft. Rigid solar arrays and flexible solar arrays are two of the most common space energy harvesting devices, playing important roles in various space missions. Rigid solar arrays typically use high-strength materials such as aluminum plates and carbon fiber as substrates, on which solar cells are securely mounted. Flexible solar arrays are characterized by their excellent flexibility and foldability. They utilize thin, flexible substrate materials, such as fiberglass boards and polyimide films, on which solar cells are integrated. Both rigid and flexible solar cells primarily employ triple-junction gallium arsenide (GaAs) solar cells. With the widespread application of high-power communication and computing satellites, the demand for large-area solar arrays has surged. However, the high cost per unit area of ​​triple-junction GaAs solar cells severely limits their large-scale application.

[0003] Traditional solar panels all use non-concentrating solar cells, whose main drawbacks are relatively low photoelectric conversion efficiency and high cost, severely limiting their large-scale application. Taking the most mature gallium arsenide (GaAs) solar cell as an example, the conversion efficiency of a traditional triple-junction GaAs cell is about 30%, while concentrating solar cells, through multi-junction structures and concentrating technology, can achieve efficiencies of 31% to 41%, with an even higher theoretical limit. The price of a traditional triple-junction GaAs cell is 150,000 to 300,000 yuan per square meter. Summary of the Invention

[0004] (a) Technical problems to be solved

[0005] To address the existing technical problems, this invention provides a spatially distributed concentrated solar energy system.

[0006] (II) Technical Solution

[0007] To achieve the above objectives, the main technical solutions adopted by the present invention include:

[0008] A space-distributed concentrated solar energy system includes: a power generation unit, an energy storage unit, a power management unit, and a space-based intelligent solar tracking mechanism.

[0009] The power generation unit can convert solar energy into electrical energy by combining concentrated solar power technology;

[0010] The energy storage unit is capable of storing electrical energy;

[0011] The power generation unit is connected to the power management unit;

[0012] The power management unit is connected to the energy storage unit and manages the electrical energy output by the power generation unit to be stored in the energy storage unit.

[0013] The power management unit is also connected to the space intelligent solar tracking mechanism and the external load system for power supply.

[0014] The power generation unit includes: multiple power generation modules and a support structure;

[0015] Multiple sets of the power generation modules are mounted on the support structure and connected to the power management unit;

[0016] The support structure is mounted on the space intelligent solar tracking mechanism and, under the control of the space intelligent solar tracking mechanism, enables the multiple sets of power generation modules to be aligned with sunlight in real time for high-efficiency power generation.

[0017] Preferably, the power management unit dynamically adjusts the total energy output of each power generation module using the following model function:

[0018]

[0019] E total E represents the total energy output of the system, where n is the number of power generation modules. i P is the energy output of the i-th module. i Let represent the set of operation parameters for the i-th module, t represent time, and W represent external factors such as space conditions.

[0020] Preferably, the space intelligent solar tracking mechanism includes: a support mechanism, a sensor assembly, a drive mechanism, a control mechanism, and a thermal control mechanism;

[0021] The sensor assembly, the drive mechanism, the control mechanism, and the thermal control mechanism are all mounted on the support mechanism;

[0022] The control mechanism is connected to the sensor assembly, the drive mechanism, and the thermal control mechanism respectively;

[0023] The sensor assembly is capable of accurately measuring the angle of the sun relative to the power generation unit;

[0024] The drive mechanism can adjust the angle of the power generation unit according to the instructions of the control mechanism;

[0025] The thermal control mechanism is able to maintain the various components within the system within a suitable operating temperature range in space.

[0026] Preferably, the power generation module includes: a primary mirror, a secondary mirror, a receiver, and a secondary mirror support;

[0027] The primary mirror is mounted on the support structure;

[0028] The secondary mirror bracket is disposed on the bracket structure or on the frame of the primary mirror;

[0029] The secondary mirror is mounted on the secondary mirror bracket;

[0030] The receiver is located at the bottom of the main mirror;

[0031] The primary mirror is capable of reflecting and converging sunlight for the first time, and its shape is a parabolic sphere or a near-parabolic sphere.

[0032] The secondary mirror can reflect the sunlight gathered by the primary mirror a second time and focus it onto the receiver;

[0033] The receiver can convert the solar energy gathered sequentially by the primary mirror and the secondary mirror into electrical energy;

[0034] The receiver is connected to the power management unit and can store the converted electrical energy into the energy storage unit under the control of the power management unit.

[0035] Preferably, the power generation module further includes: a light guide structure;

[0036] The light guide structure is disposed on the receiver;

[0037] The light guide structure is funnel-shaped and can reflect the incident light rays converged by the secondary mirror multiple times so that all of them eventually reach the receiver.

[0038] Preferably, the structure and material of the primary mirror have excellent planar thermal conductivity;

[0039] The optical characteristics of the sun-facing side of the primary mirror are high solar reflectivity and high infrared emissivity, while the optical characteristics of the shaded side are high infrared emissivity.

[0040] Preferably, the receiver is any one of a concentrating solar cell, a photovoltaic, or a solar thermal power generation device.

[0041] Preferably, the power generation unit has an on-orbit replaceable ultraviolet protection film;

[0042] The ultraviolet protective film can prevent ultraviolet rays from penetrating through reflection, scattering, and absorption, while having high transmittance for sunlight in the visible and infrared bands.

[0043] Preferably, the energy storage unit type includes any one of solid-state battery, lithium battery, and supercapacitor.

[0044] Preferably, the main mirrors of the multiple sets of power generation modules can be arranged in an array and combined into a single integral structure;

[0045] The support structure is a frame structure;

[0046] The integrally formed structure is arranged on the frame structure.

[0047] (III) Beneficial Effects

[0048] The beneficial effects of this invention are:

[0049] The space-distributed concentrating solar energy system combined with power generation concentrating solar technology provided in this application demonstrates significant advantages and effects in improving photoelectric conversion efficiency, reducing solar cell usage, and lowering launch costs. Firstly, by employing optical elements to concentrate sunlight before generating electricity, the system greatly improves the utilization efficiency of solar energy per unit area. Traditional triple-junction gallium arsenide (GaAs) cells have a photoelectric conversion efficiency of approximately 30%, while concentrating technology can significantly increase light intensity, thereby improving the overall photoelectric conversion efficiency. This means that for the same power generation demand, the required cell area using concentrating solar technology is smaller, thus reducing the amount of high-cost triple-junction GaAs material used.

[0050] Secondly, reducing the solar panel area not only lowers the total battery consumption but also effectively reduces the overall weight of the satellite, which is crucial for reducing launch costs. Since launch costs are directly related to the mass of the spacecraft, any weight reduction will result in significant cost savings. Furthermore, lightweight design helps improve the satellite's payload capacity, allowing more resources to be allocated to other critical systems or mission equipment.

[0051] Furthermore, the space-based intelligent solar tracking mechanism in the space-distributed concentrating energy system ensures that the power generation modules can be aligned with sunlight in real time, maximizing the capture of solar energy. This precise tracking capability is particularly crucial for maintaining high-efficiency output, especially in missions requiring long-term stable power supply, such as those in geostationary orbit.

[0052] Finally, the system integrates energy storage and power management units, enabling efficient energy storage and rational allocation of power resources. This not only ensures the satellite's continuous operation under varying lighting conditions but also improves the overall system's reliability and stability. In conclusion, the space-based distributed energy system combining concentrated solar power technology represents an innovative and efficient solution, providing strong support for the development of high-power communication and computing satellites.

[0053] In summary, the solution proposed in this application can improve the photoelectric conversion efficiency of triple-junction gallium arsenide solar cells and reduce the cost of equipment. Attached Figure Description

[0054] Figure 1 A schematic diagram of a space-distributed concentrated solar energy system provided by the present invention;

[0055] Figure 2 A schematic diagram of the structure of a power generation unit in a space-distributed concentrated solar power system provided by the present invention;

[0056] Figure 3 This is a schematic diagram of the power generation module of a space-distributed concentrated solar energy system provided by the present invention.

[0057] [Explanation of Labels in the Attached Image]

[0058] 1: Support structure; 2: Primary mirror; 3: Secondary mirror; 4: Secondary mirror support; 5: Receiver; 6: Light guide structure. Detailed Implementation

[0059] To better explain and facilitate understanding of the present invention, the present invention will be described in detail below with reference to the accompanying drawings and specific embodiments.

[0060] like Figures 1-3 As shown: This embodiment discloses a space-distributed concentrated solar energy system, including: a power generation unit, an energy storage unit, a power management unit, and a space-based intelligent solar tracking mechanism.

[0061] The power generation unit can convert solar energy into electrical energy using concentrated solar power technology; the energy storage unit can store electrical energy; the power generation unit is connected to the power management unit; the power management unit is connected to the energy storage unit and manages the electrical energy output by the power generation unit to be stored in the energy storage unit.

[0062] In detail, the power management unit is also connected to the space intelligent solar tracking mechanism and the external load system for power supply; wherein, the power generation unit includes: multiple sets of power generation modules and a support structure 1. The multiple sets of power generation modules are mounted on the support structure 1 and connected to the power management unit; the support structure 1 is mounted on the space intelligent solar tracking mechanism and can, under the control of the space intelligent solar tracking mechanism, align the multiple sets of power generation modules with sunlight in real time for high-efficiency power generation.

[0063] This space-distributed concentrated solar power system, combining concentrated solar power technology, demonstrates significant advantages and effects in improving photoelectric conversion efficiency, reducing solar cell usage, and lowering launch costs. Firstly, by using optical elements to concentrate sunlight before generating electricity, the system greatly improves the utilization efficiency of solar energy per unit area. Traditional triple-junction gallium arsenide (GaAs) cells have a photoelectric conversion efficiency of approximately 30%, while concentrated solar power technology significantly increases light intensity, thereby improving the overall photoelectric conversion efficiency. This means that for the same power generation demand, concentrated solar power technology requires a smaller cell area, thus reducing the amount of high-cost triple-junction GaAs material used.

[0064] Secondly, reducing the solar panel area not only lowers the total battery consumption but also effectively reduces the overall weight of the satellite, which is crucial for reducing launch costs. Since launch costs are directly related to the mass of the spacecraft, any weight reduction will result in significant cost savings. Furthermore, lightweight design helps improve the satellite's payload capacity, allowing more resources to be allocated to other critical systems or mission equipment.

[0065] Furthermore, the space-based intelligent solar tracking mechanism in the space-distributed concentrating energy system ensures that the power generation modules can be aligned with sunlight in real time, maximizing the capture of solar energy. This precise tracking capability is particularly crucial for maintaining high-efficiency output, especially in missions requiring long-term stable power supply, such as those in geostationary orbit.

[0066] Finally, the system integrates energy storage and power management units, enabling efficient energy storage and rational allocation of power resources. This not only ensures the satellite's continuous operation under varying lighting conditions but also improves the overall system's reliability and stability. In conclusion, the space-based distributed energy system combining concentrated solar power technology represents an innovative and efficient solution, providing strong support for the development of high-power communication and computing satellites.

[0067] It should be noted that the power management unit dynamically adjusts the total energy output of each power generation module using the following model function:

[0068]

[0069] E total E represents the total energy output of the system, where n is the number of power generation modules. i P is the energy output of the i-th module. i Let represent the set of operation parameters for the i-th module, t represent time, and W represent external factors such as space conditions.

[0070] The power management unit using the above model has the following advantages:

[0071] Dynamic optimization scheduling: By monitoring environmental conditions and system load requirements in real time, the working status of each power generation module is dynamically adjusted to ensure that each module always operates at the optimal efficiency point.

[0072] Multi-module collaborative operation: avoids overloading or inefficient operation of individual modules and maximizes the energy output of the overall system.

[0073] Improved power generation efficiency: Compared to the independent operation of a single module, the overall power generation efficiency can be increased by 10%-30% (the specific figure depends on the number of modules and coordination capabilities).

[0074] Reduce energy waste: By rationally allocating excess energy through energy storage units, energy loss caused by over-generation can be avoided.

[0075] The space intelligent solar tracking mechanism described in this embodiment includes: a support mechanism, a sensor assembly, a drive mechanism, a control mechanism, and a thermal control mechanism.

[0076] The sensor assembly, the drive mechanism, the control mechanism, and the thermal control mechanism are all mounted on the support structure; the control mechanism is connected to the sensor assembly, the drive mechanism, and the thermal control mechanism respectively. The sensor assembly can accurately measure the angle of the sun relative to the power generation unit; the drive mechanism can adjust the angle of the power generation unit according to the instructions of the control mechanism; the thermal control mechanism can maintain the various components within the system within a suitable operating temperature range in space.

[0077] The power control unit provided in this embodiment employs the following control strategy for the external load system:

[0078] 1. Forecasting and Scheduling: Forecasting load demand: Predicting load demand for a future period using historical data and machine learning algorithms. Dynamic Scheduling: Dynamically adjusting the charging and discharging power of energy storage devices and the grid interaction power of space devices based on forecast results and current power generation capacity.

[0079] 2. Priority Management and Critical Load Guarantee: Always prioritize meeting the needs of critical loads, even if it is necessary to reduce non-critical loads. Non-critical load adjustment: When power is insufficient, gradually reduce the power of non-critical loads until supply and demand are balanced.

[0080] In this embodiment, the space-based intelligent solar tracking mechanism plays a crucial role in the space-distributed concentrated solar energy system, bringing numerous advantages and benefits to space applications:

[0081] Improving energy harvesting efficiency: Space-based intelligent solar tracking systems can precisely adjust the angle of solar panels in real time to ensure they are always facing the sun. This precise tracking capability maximizes solar energy harvesting efficiency, which is especially important when using concentrated solar power (CSP) technology, as any angular deviation can significantly reduce the concentration effect.

[0082] Adapting to complex space environments: In space, satellites experience varying lighting conditions and orbital position changes. The intelligent solar tracking mechanism, through its high-precision sensor components and responsive drive mechanism, can quickly adapt to these changes, ensuring efficient operation even at the edge of Earth's shadow or in low-light conditions.

[0083] Reduced battery area and weight: The total area of ​​solar cells required can be reduced due to more efficient energy harvesting. This not only lowers costs but also reduces the overall weight of the spacecraft, which is crucial for saving launch expenses. Furthermore, the lighter weight frees up more payload capacity for other mission requirements.

[0084] Enhancing system stability and reliability: The intelligent tracking mechanism is equipped with an advanced control system that processes data from sensors and makes corresponding adjustments to maintain the optimal angle for sunlight reception. Simultaneously, combined with energy storage units, it can provide continuous power supply even without sunlight, thereby improving the stability and reliability of the entire energy system.

[0085] Optimized power management: Through close collaboration with the power management unit, the space-based intelligent solar tracking system helps optimize the generation, storage, and distribution of electrical energy. For example, it prioritizes charging the energy storage unit when sunlight is abundant, while making full use of the stored energy during periods of insufficient sunlight to ensure continuous system operation.

[0086] The power generation module in this embodiment includes: a primary mirror 2, a secondary mirror 3, a receiver 5, and a secondary mirror support 4. The primary mirror 2 is mounted on the support structure 1; the secondary mirror support 4 is mounted on the support structure 1 or on the frame of the primary mirror 2; the secondary mirror 3 is mounted on the secondary mirror support 4; and the receiver 5 is located at the bottom of the primary mirror 2. The primary mirror 2 can reflect and focus sunlight for the first time, and its shape is parabolic or near-parabolic; the secondary mirror 3 can reflect the sunlight focused by the primary mirror 2 a second time and focus it onto the receiver 5; the receiver 5 can convert the sunlight energy focused sequentially by the primary mirror 2 and the secondary mirror 3 into electrical energy; the receiver 5 is connected to the power management unit and can store the converted electrical energy in the energy storage unit under the control of the power management unit.

[0087] It should be noted that the power generation module also includes a light guide structure 6; the light guide structure 6 is disposed on the receiver 5; the light guide structure 6 is funnel-shaped and can reflect the incident light rays converged by the secondary mirror 3 multiple times so that all of them eventually reach the receiver 5.

[0088] The primary mirror 2 has excellent planar thermal conductivity due to its structure and materials. The optical characteristics of its sun-facing surface are high solar reflectivity and high infrared emissivity, while the optical characteristics of its shaded surface are high infrared emissivity. The receiver 5 can be any one of a concentrating solar cell, photovoltaic, or solar thermal power generation device. The power generation unit has an on-orbit replaceable ultraviolet (UV) protective film; this film can prevent UV penetration through reflection, scattering, and absorption, while maintaining high transmittance for visible and infrared sunlight. The energy storage unit type includes any one of solid-state batteries, lithium batteries, or supercapacitors.

[0089] It should be noted that the working principle of the power generation module in this embodiment is as follows: parallel sunlight shines vertically into the main mirror 2, is reflected and converged to the secondary mirror 3, and then reflected by the secondary mirror 3 to the concentrating solar cell. Through the photovoltaic effect, solar energy is converted into electrical energy.

[0090] Primary mirror 2 is responsible for the initial reflection and focusing of sunlight. Its shape is primarily parabolic or near-parabolic, and its structure and materials possess excellent planar thermal conductivity. This allows for the rapid diffusion of the point heat source from the sunlight spot across the entire surface of primary mirror 2. The optical characteristics of the sun-facing side are high solar reflectivity and high infrared emissivity, ensuring that sunlight is reflected and focused onto the solar cells as much as possible. Simultaneously, the sun-facing side also allows for efficient infrared radiation heat dissipation. The optical characteristics of the shaded side are high infrared emissivity, allowing for efficient infrared radiation heat dissipation facing the darker side. Primary mirror 2 achieves effective heat dissipation for the solar cells through a passive method.

[0091] Secondary mirror 3 is responsible for reflecting the sunlight gathered by the primary mirror a second time and focusing it onto receiver 5. Its reflective surface has high solar reflectivity.

[0092] Receiver 5 converts the solar energy gathered by the primary mirror 2 and secondary mirror 3 into electrical energy, which can be either photovoltaic or photothermal. Currently, concentrated solar cells are relatively more mature, and the highest photoelectric conversion efficiency achievable in the laboratory has reached 47%.

[0093] The light guide structure 6 has two main functions. First, when the angle of the sun is accurate, the light guide structure can improve the energy uniformity on the receiver. Second, when the light spot caused by the deflection of the angle of the sun exceeds the range of the receiver 5, the light guide structure 6 can reflect most of the light back to the receiver 5. The current design is in the form of a light funnel, which reflects the incident light multiple times so that all of it eventually reaches the receiver 5.

[0094] The secondary mirror bracket 4 is mainly used for the installation and positioning of the secondary mirror 3, providing sufficient rigidity and strength to ensure the relative positional relationship between the primary mirror 2 and the secondary mirror 3. At the same time, it is necessary to select materials with high transmittance for sunlight and mid-to-far infrared light.

[0095] In this embodiment, the main mirrors 2 of the multiple sets of power generation modules can be arranged in an array and combined into an integral structure; the support structure 1 is a frame structure; the integral structure is arranged on the frame structure.

[0096] The technical principles of the present invention have been described in conjunction with specific embodiments. These descriptions are merely for explaining the principles of the invention and should not be construed as limiting the scope of protection of the invention in any way. Based on this explanation, those skilled in the art can conceive of other specific embodiments of the invention without inventive effort, and these embodiments will all fall within the scope of protection of the present invention.

Claims

1. A spatially distributed concentrated solar energy system, characterized in that, include: Power generation unit, energy storage unit, power management unit, and space-based intelligent solar tracking mechanism; The power generation unit can convert solar energy into electrical energy by combining concentrated solar power technology; The energy storage unit is capable of storing electrical energy; The power generation unit is connected to the power management unit; The power management unit is connected to the energy storage unit and manages the electrical energy output by the power generation unit to be stored in the energy storage unit. The power management unit is also connected to the space intelligent solar tracking mechanism and the external load system for power supply. The power generation unit includes: multiple power generation modules and a support structure; The support structure is mounted on the space intelligent solar tracking mechanism and can, under the control of the space intelligent solar tracking mechanism, make the multiple sets of power generation modules align with sunlight in real time for high-efficiency power generation. Each power generation module includes a primary mirror, a secondary mirror support, a secondary mirror, a light guide structure, and a receiver; The primary mirror is mounted on the support structure and is responsible for the first reflection and focusing of sunlight. Its shape is a parabolic sphere or near-parabolic sphere. The structure and material have excellent planar thermal conductivity. The optical characteristics of the sun-facing surface are high solar reflectivity and high infrared emissivity, while the optical characteristics of the shaded surface are high infrared emissivity. The secondary mirror bracket is disposed on the bracket structure or on the frame of the primary mirror; The secondary mirror is mounted on the secondary mirror bracket and can reflect the sunlight gathered by the primary mirror a second time and focus it onto the receiver; The light guide structure is disposed on the receiver. It is funnel-shaped and can reflect the incident light rays converged by the secondary mirror multiple times so that all of them eventually reach the receiver. The receiver is located at the bottom of the primary mirror and can convert the solar energy gathered by the primary mirror and the secondary mirror into electrical energy. The receiver is connected to the power management unit and can store the converted electrical energy into the energy storage unit under the control of the power management unit. The main mirrors of multiple sets of power generation modules can be arranged in an array and combined into a single integral structure; the support structure is a frame structure, and the single integral structure is arranged on the frame structure.

2. The space-distributed concentrated solar energy system according to claim 1, characterized in that, The power management unit dynamically adjusts the total energy output of each power generation module using the following model function: ； E total This represents the system's total energy output. n It refers to the number of power generation modules. E i It is the first i Energy output of each module P i Indicates the first i A set of operating parameters for each module t Indicates time, W For space conditions.

3. The space-distributed concentrated solar energy system according to claim 2, characterized in that, The space-based intelligent solar tracking mechanism includes: a support mechanism, a sensor assembly, a drive mechanism, a control mechanism, and a thermal control mechanism; The sensor assembly, the drive mechanism, the control mechanism, and the thermal control mechanism are all mounted on the support mechanism; The control mechanism is connected to the sensor assembly, the drive mechanism, and the thermal control mechanism respectively; The sensor assembly is capable of accurately measuring the angle of the sun relative to the power generation unit; The drive mechanism can adjust the angle of the power generation unit according to the instructions of the control mechanism; The thermal control mechanism is able to maintain the various components within the system within a suitable operating temperature range in space.

4. The space-distributed concentrated solar energy system according to claim 1, characterized in that, The receiver can be either a concentrated solar cell or a solar thermal power generation device.

5. The space-distributed concentrated solar energy system according to claim 1, characterized in that, The power generation unit has an on-orbit replaceable ultraviolet protection film; The ultraviolet protective film can prevent ultraviolet rays from penetrating through reflection, scattering, and absorption, while having high transmittance for sunlight in the visible and infrared bands.

6. The space-distributed concentrated solar energy system according to claim 1, characterized in that, The energy storage unit type includes any one of solid-state batteries, lithium batteries, and supercapacitors.

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