Solar power generation equipment

Abstract

The problem that the technology disclosed in this specification aims to solve is to improve power generation efficiency in a solar power generation device that oscillates solar panels according to the direction of sunlight, by detecting whether or not there is a malfunction in the solar panels, for example, whether or not there is a malfunction related to the oscillation of the solar panels. [Solution] The solar power generation device 1 has a solar panel 9, a swinging mechanism 10, a power generation amount detection unit 25, and a fault determination unit 21. The swinging mechanism 10 swings the solar panel 9. The power generation amount detection unit 25 detects the amount of power generated by the solar panel 9. The fault determination unit 21 determines whether there is a fault in the swinging mechanism 10. The fault determination unit 21 swings the solar panel 9 when it determines that the solar panel 9 is in a state where it can generate power. The presence or absence of a fault in the swinging mechanism 10 is determined based on the amount of change in the amount of power generated by the solar panel 9 depending on the swing angle of the solar panel 9.

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] The present invention relates to a photovoltaic power generation device equipped with a solar panel that generates electricity by receiving sunlight directly or reflected sunlight. [Background technology]

[0002] Photovoltaic power generation devices equipped with solar panels have been provided in the past. Patent Document 1 describes a photovoltaic power generation device equipped with two solar panels, an upper one and a lower one. The upper solar panel receives sunlight directly and generates electricity on its upper surface. The lower solar panel receives sunlight reflected from a reflector or the like installed below and generates electricity on its lower surface. Both the upper and lower solar panels are integrally mounted on a single support member. Power generation efficiency can be improved by generating electricity on both the upper surface of the upper solar panel and the lower surface of the lower solar panel. To further improve power generation efficiency, it has been proposed to make the upper solar panel movable depending on the direction of sunlight, for example.

[0003] To further increase the amount of power generated, it is desirable to be able to determine whether a solar panel is generating the target amount of power. For example, in a solar power generation device that swings a solar panel according to the direction of sunlight, it is desirable to be able to determine whether the solar panel is swinging as targeted and to detect whether there is a malfunction in the swing mechanism. [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0004] [Patent Document 1] Japanese Patent Publication No. 2020-96494 Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0005] The problem that the technology disclosed in this specification aims to solve is to improve power generation efficiency in a solar power generation device that oscillates solar panels according to the direction of sunlight, by detecting whether or not there is a malfunction in the solar panels, for example, whether or not there is a malfunction related to the oscillation of the solar panels. [Means for solving the problem]

[0006] According to one aspect of the present disclosure, a solar power generation device includes a solar panel, a swing mechanism, a power generation amount detection unit, and a fault determination unit. The swing mechanism swings the solar panel. The power generation amount detection unit detects the amount of power generated by the solar panel. The fault determination unit determines a fault in the swing mechanism. The fault determination unit swings the solar panel when it determines that the solar panel is in a state where it can generate power. The presence or absence of a fault in the swing mechanism is determined based on the amount of change in the amount of power generated by the solar panel depending on the swing angle of the solar panel.

[0007] Therefore, when the solar panel is in a state where it is capable of generating power, the presence or absence of a malfunction in the swing mechanism is determined by comparing the swing angle of the solar panel with the amount of change in the amount of power generated by the solar panel. This makes it possible to easily and accurately determine whether or not there is a malfunction in the swing mechanism. By easily detecting whether or not there is a malfunction in the swing mechanism and being able to take prompt action, the power generation efficiency of the solar power generation device can be improved.

[0008] According to another aspect of the present disclosure, a solar power generation device includes a panel temperature detection unit and an outside air temperature detection unit. The panel temperature detection unit detects the panel temperature of the solar panel. The outside air temperature detection unit detects the outside air temperature. The failure determination unit determines whether the solar panel is in a state where it can generate electricity based on the panel temperature and the outside air temperature. Therefore, the panel temperature and the outside air temperature when the solar panel is capable of generating electricity, and their relationship to each other, are stored in advance. In this way, by detecting the panel temperature and the outside air temperature, it is possible to easily determine whether the solar panel is in a state where it can generate electricity at or above a predetermined amount.

[0009] According to another aspect of the present disclosure, the failure determination unit determines that the solar panel is capable of generating power when the panel temperature is higher than the outside air temperature by a predetermined temperature or more. Therefore, when the panel temperature is higher than the outside air temperature by a predetermined temperature or more, the solar panel is capable of generating a predetermined amount of power or more under conditions such as daytime, good weather, or a warm season with long hours of sunshine. Therefore, by detecting a small number of parameters, such as the panel temperature and the outside air temperature, it is possible to easily determine whether the solar panel is capable of generating a predetermined amount of power or more.

[0010] According to another aspect of the present disclosure, the solar panel includes an upper panel that faces upward and receives direct sunlight, and a lower panel that faces downward and receives reflected sunlight. The swing mechanism swings the upper panel and the lower panel in unison. The failure determination unit determines whether or not there is a failure in the swing mechanism based on the relationship between the amount of power generated by the upper panel and the amount of power generated by the lower panel due to changes in the swing angle of the upper panel and the lower panel. Therefore, by detecting the amount of power generated by each of the upper panel and the lower panel, it is possible to easily determine whether or not the upper panel and the lower panel are swinging at a normal swing angle. This makes it easy to determine whether or not there is a failure in the swing mechanism.

[0011] According to another aspect of the present disclosure, the solar panel includes an upper panel that faces upward and receives direct sunlight, and a lower panel that faces downward and receives reflected sunlight. The rocking mechanisms include an upper rocking mechanism that rocks the upper panel, and a lower rocking mechanism that rocks the lower panel. The failure determination unit includes an upper determination unit that determines whether or not there is a failure in the upper rocking mechanism based on the amount of power generation of the upper panel caused by a change in the rocking angle of the upper panel. The failure determination unit includes a lower determination unit that determines whether or not there is a failure in the lower rocking mechanism based on the amount of power generation of the lower panel caused by a change in the rocking angle of the lower panel.

[0012] Therefore, by detecting the amount of power generated by the upper panel, it is possible to easily determine whether the upper panel is swinging at a normal swing angle. This makes it easy to determine whether there is a malfunction in the upper swing mechanism. By detecting the amount of power generated by the lower panel, it is possible to easily determine whether the lower panel is swinging at a normal swing angle. This makes it easy to determine whether there is a malfunction in the lower swing mechanism. [Effects of the Invention]

[0013] According to the technology disclosed in this specification, in a solar power generation device that swings a solar panel in response to the direction of sunlight, it is possible to detect whether or not there is a failure in the solar panel, for example, whether or not there is a failure related to the swinging of the solar panel, thereby improving power generation efficiency. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0014] [Figure 1] 1 is a diagram schematically illustrating a solar power generation device according to a first embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 2] FIG. 2 is a cross-sectional view schematically showing a solar altitude detection unit. [Figure 3] 10 is a perspective view of an example in which a light receiving unit is provided on the lower surface of a lower panel, as viewed from below. FIG. [Figure 4] FIG. 2 is a block diagram showing a control structure of the solar power generation device. [Figure 5] 10 is a flowchart relating to a temperature determination unit. [Figure 6] 10 is a flowchart relating to a power generation capacity determination unit. [Figure 7] 5 is a flowchart relating to an angle adjustment determination unit of the first embodiment. [Figure 8] 4 is a flowchart relating to a power generation capacity determination unit and an angle adjustment determination unit of the first embodiment. [Figure 9] 10 is a flowchart relating to an angle adjustment determination unit of the second embodiment. [Figure 10] 10 is a flowchart relating to a power generation capacity determination unit and an angle adjustment determination unit of the second embodiment. [Figure 11] FIG. 10 is a diagram schematically showing changes in the amount of power generation in the second embodiment. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0015] A first embodiment of a solar power generation device according to the present disclosure will be described below with reference to FIGS. 1 to 8. The same reference numbers in the description refer to the same elements having the same functions, although duplicate explanations will not be given. The solar power generation device exemplified in the present disclosure is installed on an artificial tidal flat and receives sunlight to generate electricity. In the following description, the up-down direction is defined with the direction in which sunlight is incident as upward. The front-rear and left-right directions refer to the directions in the drawings, and do not indicate the actual installation direction, etc.

[0016] As shown in FIG. 1 , the solar power generation system 1 is installed above the water surface 35 of an artificial tidal flat 30. The artificial tidal flat 30 is installed in a floating tank 31 that floats on the sea surface S. The tank 31 is positioned relative to the seabed by moorings 32 such as chains. The lower part of the tank 31 is a wet mud layer 33. The upper part of the tank 31 is a retention layer of water 34. The upper surface of the water 34 is the water surface 35, which forms a so-called gas phase 36. The wet mud layer 33 is agitated by an air lift pump (not shown) or the like to maintain a good wet mud layer state. The solar power generation system 1 supplies power for driving the air lift pump and for managing the water quality in the tank 31.

[0017] As shown in FIG. 1, a roof 2 covering the gas phase 36 is disposed above the water surface 35. The roof 2 extends in a generally horizontal, flat shape. The roof 2 protects the gas phase 36 from external threats, wind, rain, and the like, maintaining its state. The roof 2 is supported by columns 3 rising from the tank 31. The roof 2 is disposed in the right-hand region of the tank 31 in the drawing. The solar panels 9 of the solar power generation device 1 are supported so as to be swingable around an axis 6 at the left end of the roof 2. The solar panels 9 include an upper panel 7 facing upward and a lower panel 8 facing downward. The upper panel 7 generates electricity by directly receiving sunlight indicated by arrow T1. The lower panel 8 generates electricity by receiving reflected light T3 indicated by arrow T2, which is sunlight reflected by the water surface (reflecting surface) 35. The intensity (energy) of the reflected light T3 is, for example, approximately 10 to 20% of that of sunlight T2.

[0018] As shown in Figure 1, the upper panel 7 is mounted on the upper surface of a flat upper panel member 4. The upper panel member 4 can swing upward around an axis 6 from a position parallel to the roof 2. The upper swing angle (pitch angle) θ2 of the upper panel 7 around the axis 6 is the angle between the roof 2 and the upper panel member 4, with the extension direction of the roof 2 being 0°. The amount of power generated by the upper panel 7 varies depending on the upper angle θ4 formed between the upper panel 7 and the incident direction of sunlight T1. For example, when the upper angle θ4 is 90°, the power generation efficiency of the upper panel 7 is maximized.

[0019] As shown in FIG. 1, the lower panel 8 is provided on the underside of a flat lower panel member 5. The lower panel member 5 can swing downward around an axis 6 from a position parallel to the roof 2. The lower swing angle (pitch angle) θ3 of the lower panel 8 centered on the axis 6 is the angle between the roof 2 and the lower panel member 5, with the extension direction of the roof 2 being 0°. The amount of power generated by the lower panel 8 varies depending on the lower angle θ5 formed between the lower panel 8 and the irradiation direction of the reflected light T3. For example, when the lower angle θ5 is 90°, the power generation efficiency of the lower panel 8 is maximized.

[0020] As shown in FIG. 1, the solar power generation device 1 has a swing mechanism 10 that swings the upper panel 7 and the lower panel 8 around an axis 6. The swing mechanism 10 includes an upper motor (upper swing mechanism) 11 that swings the upper panel 7 and the upper panel member 4 together, and a lower motor (lower swing mechanism) 12 that swings the lower panel 8 and the lower panel member 5 together. As shown in FIGS. 2 and 4, the swing mechanism 10 is driven and controlled by a control unit 20. The control unit 20 has an angle adjustment unit 26 that links the upper motor 11 and the lower motor 12. The angle adjustment unit 26 controls the drive amount of the upper motor 11 and the lower motor 12 based on an angle (solar altitude) θ1 calculated by a solar altitude detection unit 27 (described later). The angle adjustment unit 26 drives the upper motor 11 and the lower motor 12, for example, so that the upper swing angle θ2 and the lower swing angle θ3 are the same.

[0021] As shown in Figures 1 and 2, a plurality of light receiving units 13 that detect reflected light T3 are provided on the underside 2a of the roof 2. Each light receiving unit 13 is square-shaped with a predetermined grid distance L1 on one side. The multiple light receiving units 13 are arranged adjacent to one another from the edge 2b of the roof 2 toward the right in the figure. The multiple light receiving units 13 are also arranged adjacent to one another in the direction perpendicular to the plane of the page. In other words, the multiple light receiving units 13 are arranged in a grid pattern along the underside 2a of the roof 2. Each light receiving unit 13 detects reflected light T3 when it receives reflected light T3 from sunlight T2 reflected by the water surface 35. Each light receiving unit 13 does not detect reflected light T3 when it does not receive reflected light T3.

[0022] As shown in Fig. 4, the control unit 20 has a solar altitude detection unit 27. The solar altitude detection unit 27 detects the angle (solar altitude) θ1 at which sunlight T2 is tilted with respect to the water surface 35 based on whether or not reflected light T3 is detected by each light receiving unit 13 and the water surface height L3 from the underside 2a of the roof 2 to the water surface 35 (see Fig. 2). The water surface height L3 is detected by a level meter 16, which will be described later.

[0023] As shown in Figure 2, the edge 2b of the roof 2 is located at horizontal position H1. The light receiving unit 13 that detects reflected light T3a of sunlight T2a at the farthest side from the edge 2b (the right side in the figure) is located at horizontal position H2. The linear distance from horizontal position H1 to horizontal position H2 is the light receiving distance L2 at which the multiple light receiving units 13 detect reflected light T3. The angle θ1 is calculated by the control unit 20 based on the following equation (1). θ1=tan^(-1)(2×L3 / L2)···(1)

[0024] As shown in FIG. 3, a modified embodiment may be adopted in which the lower panel 8 also functions as the light receiving unit 13. The light receiving units 13 of the lower panel 8 are partitioned into squares with sides at a predetermined grid distance K1 from the edge of the lower panel 8. The light receiving units 13 of each partition detect the presence or absence of reflected light T3. To detect angle θ1, the lower panel 8 is swung by the lower motor 12 to a position where the lower swing angle θ3 is 0° (see FIG. 1). The angle θ1 can be detected because the lower panel 8 and the water surface 35 are arranged parallel to each other. The linear distance from the edge of the lower panel 8 to the light receiving unit 13 at the farthest end that detects reflected light T3a of sunlight T2a is the light receiving distance K2 at which the multiple light receiving units 13 detect reflected light T3. The angle θ1 is calculated by the control unit 20 based on the following equation (2) (see FIG. 2). θ1=tan^(-1)(2×L3 / K2)···(2)

[0025] As shown in FIG. 2, the solar power generation device 1 has a level meter 16 that detects the water surface height L3 of the water surface 35. The height L4 from the bottom surface 31a of the tank 31 to the top surface 31b of the outer peripheral wall of the tank 31 is a constant value. The height L5 from the bottom surface 31a of the tank 31 to the bottom surface 2a of the roof 2 is also a constant value. The level meter 16 has a float 16a that floats on the water surface 35. The level meter 16 can detect the water surface height L6 from the top surface 31b of the outer peripheral wall to the water surface 35. Therefore, the water surface height L3 is calculated by the control unit 20 based on the following calculation formula (3). L3=L5-L4+L6 (3)

[0026] As shown in Fig. 1, the upper panel 7 is swung by the upper motor 11 to a target upper swing angle θ2 so that the target amount of power can be generated. An example of the target upper swing angle θ2 is the swing angle when the upper angle θ4 is 90°. The target upper swing angle θ2 is calculated by the control unit 20 (see Fig. 4) based on the following calculation formula (4): θ2=+(90°-θ1) (4)

[0027] As shown in Fig. 1, the lower panel 8 is swung by the lower motor 12 to a target lower swing angle θ3 so that the target amount of power can be generated. An example of the target lower swing angle θ3 is the swing angle when the lower angle θ5 is 90°. The target lower swing angle θ3 is calculated by the control unit 20 (see Fig. 4) based on the following calculation formula (5): θ3=-(90°-θ1) (5)

[0028] As shown in FIG. 4, the control unit 20 of the solar power generation device 1 has a power generation amount detection unit 25 that detects the amount of power generated by each of the upper panel 7 and the lower panel 8. The control unit 20 has a fault determination unit 21. The fault determination unit 21 has a power generation capacity determination unit 23 and an angle adjustment determination unit 24. The power generation capacity determination unit 23 determines whether or not there is a fault in the power generation capacity of the solar panel 9 based on the amount of power generated by the upper panel 7 and the lower panel 8 detected by the power generation amount detection unit 25. The angle adjustment determination unit 24 determines whether or not there is a fault in the adjustment of the swing angle of the solar panel 9 based on the relationship between the amount of power generated by the upper panel 7 and the amount of power generated by the lower panel 8 due to changes in the swing angles θ2, θ3 (see FIG. 1) of the upper panel 7 and the lower panel 8. The relationship between the amount of power generated by the upper panel 7 and the amount of power generated by the lower panel 8 is, for example, a positive correlation, for example, a proportional relationship.

[0029] As shown in FIG. 4, the control unit 20 of the solar power generation device 1 has a temperature determination unit 22. The temperature determination unit 22 determines whether the temperature conditions are such that the solar panel 9 can generate a power amount equal to or greater than a predetermined value. The temperature determination unit 22 determines the temperature conditions by receiving detection values ​​from the panel temperature detection unit 14 and the outside air temperature detection unit 15. The panel temperature detection unit 14 detects the panel temperature on the surface of the solar panel 9. The outside air temperature detection unit 15 detects the outside air temperature around the solar panel 9. As shown in FIG. 1, the panel temperature detection unit 14 is provided on either or both of the surface of the upper panel 7 and the surface of the lower panel 8. The outside air temperature detection unit 15 detects, for example, the temperature of the gas phase 36 as the outside air temperature around the solar panel 9. The outside air temperature detection unit 15 is provided, for example, below the roof 2 where it is not directly exposed to sunlight.

[0030] 1 to 8, the procedure for determining whether or not there is a malfunction in the power generation capacity of the solar panel 9 and whether or not there is a malfunction in the adjustment of the swing angle of the solar panel 9 will be described. First, the upper panel 7 and the lower panel 8 are swung to their initial positions, for example, to positions where the upper swing angle θ2 and the lower swing angle θ3 are both 0°. The panel temperature detection unit 14 detects the panel temperature A of the solar panel 9 (step (hereinafter referred to as S) 01 in FIG. 5). The temperature determination unit 22 compares whether the panel temperature A is equal to or greater than a predetermined value a (S02). If the panel temperature A is equal to or greater than the predetermined value a, it is determined that the solar panel 9 is in a state where it can generate power. If the panel temperature A is less than the predetermined value a, it is determined that the solar panel 9 is in an environment where it cannot generate the supply power and where the panel temperature A does not rise. Therefore, S01 is repeated until the panel temperature A is equal to or greater than the predetermined value a. The predetermined value a is set appropriately depending on conditions such as the time of day, season, and the installation location (latitude) of the solar power generation device 1. The predetermined value a is, for example, 30° C., 25° C., or 20° C., and may be, for example, a value between these values.

[0031] The outdoor air temperature detection unit 15 detects the outdoor air temperature B (S03). The temperature determination unit 22 compares whether the difference between the panel temperature A and the outdoor air temperature B is equal to or greater than a predetermined value b (S04). For example, under conditions suitable for generating electricity from the solar panel 9, such as daytime, sunny weather, and warm seasons with long hours of sunshine, the panel temperature A is sufficiently higher than the outdoor air temperature B. Under conditions unsuitable for generating electricity from the solar panel 9, such as nighttime, bad weather, and cold seasons with long hours of sunshine, the panel temperature A is approximately the same temperature as the outdoor air temperature B. If the difference between the panel temperature A and the outdoor air temperature B is equal to or greater than the predetermined value b, the solar panel 9 is determined to be capable of generating an amount of power equal to or greater than a predetermined value. If S04 is satisfied, the control unit 20 turns on the light intensity confirmation mode (S05). If S04 is not satisfied, the process returns to S01. The predetermined value b is set appropriately depending on conditions such as the time of day, season, and the installation location (latitude) of the solar power generation device 1. The predetermined value a is, for example, 5°C, 10°C, 15°C, or 20°C, and may be, for example, a value between these values.

[0032] After determining the temperature conditions, the control unit 20 checks whether the light intensity confirmation mode is ON (S10 in FIG. 6). The power generation amount detection unit 25 detects the power generation amount C of the upper panel 7 (S11). The power generation amount detection unit 25 detects the power generation amount D of the lower panel 8 (S12). At this time, the upper panel 7 and the lower panel 8 remain in their initial positions, for example, the upper swing angle θ2 and the lower swing angle θ3 are both 0°. The fault determination unit 21 compares whether the power generation amount C of the upper panel 7 is equal to or greater than a predetermined value c (S13). If the condition in S13 is met, the upper panel 7 is considered to be in a normal state where it can currently generate power, and the fault determination unit 21 resets the power generation amount abnormality counter E of the upper panel 7 to 0 (S14). If the condition in S13 is not met, the fault determination unit 21 increments the power generation amount abnormality counter E of the upper panel 7 by +1 (S15).

[0033] The fault determination unit 21 compares whether the power generation amount D of the lower panel 8 is equal to or greater than a predetermined value d (S16). If S16 is satisfied, the lower panel 8 is deemed to be in a normal state where it can currently generate power, and the fault determination unit 21 resets the power generation amount abnormality counter F of the lower panel 8 to 0 (S17). If S16 is not satisfied, the fault determination unit 21 increments the power generation amount abnormality counter F of the lower panel 8 by +1 (S18). When both steps S14 and S17 have been executed, the control unit 20 turns on the angle confirmation mode (S19).

[0034] After processing S19, the control unit 20 checks whether the angle confirmation mode is ON (S20 in FIG. 7). The swing mechanism 10 changes the swing angles θ2 and θ3 of the upper panel 7 and the lower panel 8 (S21). First, the upper swing angle θ2 and the lower swing angle θ3 start from a state where they are both 0°. The swing angles of the upper panel 7 and the lower panel 8 change by the same amount per unit time. That is, while the upper swing angle θ2 changes by +θ, the lower swing angle θ3 changes by the same amount by -θ. The upper panel 7 and the lower panel 8 are swung until the upper swing angle θ2 reaches +90° and the lower swing angle θ3 reaches -90°. Thereafter, the upper panel 7 and the lower panel 8 are swung in opposite directions until both the upper swing angle θ2 and the lower swing angle θ3 return to 0°.

[0035] The power generation amount detection unit 25 detects the power generation amount C(t) of the upper panel 7 and the power generation amount D(t) of the lower panel 8 for each unit time (S22). The fault determination unit 21 compares the power generation amount C(t+1) of the upper panel 7 to see if it has changed from the power generation amount C(t) for the previous unit time. The fault determination unit 21 compares the power generation amount D(t+1) of the lower panel 8 to see if it has changed from the power generation amount D(t) for the previous unit time (S23). If there is no change per unit time in either or both of the power generation amount C(t) of the upper panel 7 and the power generation amount D(t) of the lower panel 8, the fault determination unit 21 increments the angle adjustment abnormality counter G of the solar panel 9 by +1 (S24). If there is a change per unit time in both the power generation amount C(t) of the upper panel 7 and the power generation amount D(t) of the lower panel 8, the following S25 is executed.

[0036] The fault determination unit 21 determines whether the following relational expression (6) does not hold for a predetermined time or longer regarding the ratio C(t) / D(t) of the power generation amount C(t) of the upper panel 7 to the power generation amount D(t) of the lower panel 8 per unit time (S25). The predetermined time is, for example, 1 second, 3 seconds, or 5 seconds. Note that emin and emax are predetermined values. For example, the intensity of reflected light T3 is approximately 10 to 20% of that of sunlight T1 and T2 even when the angle θ1 changes. Therefore, the ratio of the intensity of sunlight T1 to the intensity of reflected light T3 is approximately 5 to 10 regardless of the angle θ1. For example, the minimum ratio value of 5 is set as emin and the maximum ratio value of 10 is set as emax, and the relational expression (6) is determined for each unit time, in other words, for each swing angle of the solar panel 9. emin <C(t) / D(t)<emax····(6)

[0037] If S25 is satisfied, the failure determination unit 21 increments the angle adjustment abnormality counter G of the solar panel 9 by +1 (S26). If S25 is not satisfied, the angle adjustment of the solar panel 9 is deemed to be normal at the current stage, and the failure determination unit 21 resets the angle adjustment abnormality counter G of the solar panel 9 to 0 (S27). After processing S27, the swing mechanism 10 changes the swing angles θ2 and θ3 of the upper panel 7 and the lower panel 8 to optimal angles (S28). The optimal angle for the upper swing angle θ2 is, for example, the angle given by formula (4). The optimal angle for the lower swing angle θ3 is, for example, the angle given by formula (5). After processing any of S24, S26, and S28, a specified time is allowed to elapse (S29), and the process returns to S01.

[0038] 5 to 7, the power generation capacity determination unit 23 of the fault determination unit 21 compares whether the power generation abnormality counter E of the upper panel 7 is equal to or greater than a predetermined value e (S30 in FIG. 8). If the power generation abnormality counter E is equal to or greater than the predetermined value e, the power generation capacity determination unit 23 of the fault determination unit 21 detects a fault in the power generation capacity of the upper panel 7 (S31). By setting the predetermined value e to a value greater than 1, for example, false detection of the presence or absence of a fault can be prevented. Even if the power generation abnormality counter E is smaller than the predetermined value e, S30 is repeatedly executed at predetermined time intervals to prevent failure to be detected.

[0039] 5 to 7, power generation capacity determination unit 23 of fault determination unit 21 compares whether power generation abnormality counter F of lower panel 8 is equal to or greater than predetermined value f (S32). If power generation abnormality counter F is equal to or greater than predetermined value f, power generation capacity determination unit 23 of fault determination unit 21 detects a fault in the power generation capacity of lower panel 8 (S33). By setting predetermined value f to a value greater than 1, for example, it is possible to prevent erroneous detection of a fault from occurring. Even if power generation abnormality counter F is smaller than predetermined value f, S32 is repeatedly executed at predetermined time intervals.

[0040] 5 to 7, the angle adjustment determination unit 24 of the failure determination unit 21 compares whether the angle adjustment abnormality counter G of the solar panel 9 is equal to or greater than a predetermined value g (S34). If the angle adjustment abnormality counter G is equal to or greater than the predetermined value g, the angle adjustment determination unit 24 of the failure determination unit 21 detects a failure in the angle adjustment of the solar panel 9 (S35). The failure in the angle adjustment of the solar panel 9 may be, for example, one or more of a failure in the upper motor 11, a failure in the lower motor 12, or a failure in the angle adjustment unit 26. By setting the predetermined value g to a value greater than 1, for example, determination of the presence or absence of a failure due to erroneous detection is suppressed. Even if the angle adjustment abnormality counter G is smaller than the predetermined value g, S34 is repeatedly executed at predetermined time intervals.

[0041] As described above, the solar power generation device 1 has a solar panel 9, a swinging mechanism 10, a power generation amount detection unit 25, and a fault determination unit 21, as shown in FIG. 4. The swinging mechanism 10 swings the solar panel 9. The power generation amount detection unit 25 detects the amount of power generated by the solar panel 9. The fault determination unit 21 determines whether there is a fault in the swinging mechanism 10. The fault determination unit 21 swings the solar panel 9 when it determines that the solar panel 9 is in a state where it can generate power. The presence or absence of a fault in the swinging mechanism 10 is determined based on the amount of change in the amount of power generated by the solar panel 9 at the swing angles θ2 and θ3 of the solar panel 9 (see FIG. 1).

[0042] Therefore, when the solar panel 9 is in a state where it is capable of generating power, the swing angles θ2, θ3 of the solar panel 9 are compared with the amount of change in the amount of power generated by the solar panel 9 to determine whether or not there is a malfunction in the swing mechanism 10. This makes it possible to easily and accurately determine whether or not there is a malfunction in the swing mechanism 10. By being able to easily detect whether or not there is a malfunction in the swing mechanism 10 and take prompt action, the power generation efficiency of the solar power generation device 1 can be improved.

[0043] As shown in FIGS. 1 and 4, the solar power generation device 1 has a panel temperature detection unit 14 and an outside air temperature detection unit 15. The panel temperature detection unit 14 detects the panel temperature of the solar panel 9. The outside air temperature detection unit 15 detects the outside air temperature. The failure determination unit 21 determines whether the solar panel 9 is in a state where it can generate electricity based on the panel temperature and the outside air temperature. Therefore, the panel temperature and the outside air temperature when the solar panel 9 is capable of generating electricity, as well as their relationship to each other, are stored in advance. In this way, by detecting the panel temperature and the outside air temperature, it can be easily determined whether the solar panel 9 is in a state where it can generate more than a predetermined amount of power.

[0044] As shown in Figure 4, the failure determination unit 21 determines that the solar panel 9 is in a state where it can generate electricity when the panel temperature is higher than the outside air temperature by a predetermined temperature or more. Therefore, when the panel temperature is higher than the outside air temperature by a predetermined temperature or more, it is under conditions such as daytime, good weather, or a warm season with long hours of sunshine, where the solar panel 9 can generate more than a predetermined amount of power. Therefore, by detecting a few parameters such as the panel temperature and the outside air temperature, it can be easily determined whether the solar panel 9 is in a state where it can generate more than a predetermined amount of power.

[0045] As shown in Figures 1 and 4, the solar panel 9 includes an upper panel 7 that faces upward and receives direct sunlight, and a lower panel 8 that faces downward and receives reflected sunlight. A swing mechanism 10 swings the upper panel 7 and the lower panel 8 in unison. A fault determination unit 21 determines whether or not there is a fault in the swing mechanism 10 based on the relationship between the amount of power generated by the upper panel 7 and the amount of power generated by the lower panel 8 due to changes in the swing angles of the upper panel 7 and the lower panel 8. Therefore, by detecting the amount of power generated by each of the upper panel 7 and the lower panel 8, it can be easily determined whether or not the upper panel 7 and the lower panel 8 are swinging at the normal swing angles θ2 and θ3. This makes it easy to determine whether or not there is a fault in the swing mechanism 10.

[0046] A second embodiment of the solar power generation device of the present disclosure will be described below with reference to FIGS. 1, 4, and 9-11. As shown in FIG. 4, the angle adjustment determination unit 24 of the failure determination unit 21 of the second embodiment includes an upper determination unit 24a and a lower determination unit 24b. In the following description, only differences from the first embodiment will be described in detail. The upper determination unit 24a determines whether or not the upper motor 11 has a failure. The upper determination unit 24a can determine whether or not the upper motor 11 has a failure by detecting a change in the amount of power generated by the upper panel 7 due to a change in the upper swing angle θ2 of the upper panel 7 using the power generation amount detection unit 25. The lower determination unit 24b determines whether or not the lower motor 12 has a failure. The lower determination unit 24b can determine whether or not the lower motor 12 has a failure by detecting a change in the amount of power generated by the lower panel 8 due to a change in the lower swing angle θ3 of the lower panel 8 using the power generation amount detection unit 25.

[0047] In the second embodiment, the procedure for determining whether or not there is a failure in the power generation capacity of the solar panel 9 and whether or not there is a failure in the adjustment of the swing angle of the solar panel 9 will be described. First, the process up to S19 in FIG. 6 is the same as in the first embodiment. After processing S19, the control unit 20 checks whether the angle confirmation mode is ON (S40 in FIG. 9). The upper motor 11 of the swing mechanism 10 changes the upper swing angle θ2 of the upper panel 7 (S41). First, the upper swing angle θ2 is changed by +θ per unit time from a state in which the upper swing angle θ2 is 0°. The upper panel 7 is swung until the upper swing angle θ2 reaches +90°. Thereafter, the upper panel 7 is swung until both the upper swing angles θ2 return to 0°.

[0048] The lower motor 12 of the swing mechanism 10 changes the lower swing angle θ3 of the lower panel 8 (S42). First, the lower swing angle θ3 is changed by -θ per unit time from a state in which the lower swing angle θ3 is 0°. The lower panel 8 is swung until the lower swing angle θ3 becomes -90°. Thereafter, the lower panel 8 is swung until the lower swing angle θ3 returns to 0°. The power generation amount detection unit 25 detects the power generation amount C(t) of the upper panel 7 per unit time (S43). The power generation amount detection unit 25 detects the power generation amount D(t) of the lower panel 8 per unit time (S44).

[0049] After the process of S43, the fault determination unit 21 determines whether the following relational expression (7) is not satisfied for a predetermined time or longer for the power generation amount C(t) of the upper panel 7 per unit time (S45). The predetermined time is, for example, 1 second, 3 seconds, 5 seconds, etc. Note that Cmin(t) and Cmax(t) are the minimum and maximum values ​​of the power generation amount C(t) per unit time that changes with changes in the upper swing angle θ2, as shown in FIG. 11. If relational expression (7) is not satisfied, the power generation amount C(t) falls outside the area surrounded by the dashed line in FIG. 11. Cmin(t) <C(t)<Cmax(t)····(7)

[0050] If S45 is satisfied, the failure determination unit 21 increments the angle adjustment abnormality counter E2 of the upper panel 7 by +1 (S47). If S45 is not satisfied, the angle adjustment of the upper panel 7 is deemed to be normal at the current stage, and the failure determination unit 21 resets the angle adjustment abnormality counter E2 of the upper panel 7 to 0 (S48). After processing S48, the swing mechanism 10 changes the upper swing angle θ2 of the upper panel 7 to the optimal angle (S49). The optimal angle of the upper swing angle θ2 is, for example, the angle given by equation (4).

[0051] After the process of S44, the fault determination unit 21 determines whether the following relational expression (8) is not satisfied for a predetermined time or longer for the power generation amount D(t) of the lower panel 8 per unit time (S46). The predetermined time is, for example, 1 second, 3 seconds, or 5 seconds. Note that Dmin(t) and Dmax(t) are the minimum and maximum values ​​of the power generation amount D(t) per unit time, which change with the lower swing angle θ3, as shown in FIG. 11. The power generation amounts D(t), Dmin(t), and Dmax(t) change in the same way as the power generation amounts C(t), Cmin(t), and Cmax(t), respectively, shown in FIG. 11. Therefore, if the relational expression (8) is not satisfied, the power generation amount D(t) falls outside the range corresponding to the area surrounded by the dashed line in FIG. 11. Dmin(t) <D(t)<Dmax(t)····(8)

[0052] If S46 is satisfied, the failure determination unit 21 increments the angle adjustment abnormality counter F2 of the lower panel 8 by +1 (S50). If S46 is not satisfied, the angle adjustment of the lower panel 8 is deemed to be normal at the current stage, and the failure determination unit 21 resets the angle adjustment abnormality counter F2 of the lower panel 8 to 0 (S51). After processing S51, the swing mechanism 10 changes the lower swing angle θ3 of the lower panel 8 to an optimal angle (S52). The optimal angle for the lower swing angle θ3 is, for example, the angle given by formula (5). After processing any of S47, S49, S50, and S52, a specified time is allowed to elapse (S53), and the process returns to S01.

[0053] 5, 6 and 9, it is detected whether there is a failure in the power generation capacity of the upper panel 7 and whether there is a failure in the power generation capacity of the lower panel 8. The steps S30, S31, S32 and S33 are the same as those in FIG. 8 of the first embodiment.

[0054] 5, 6, and 9, the angle adjustment determination unit 24 of the failure determination unit 21 compares whether the angle adjustment abnormality counter E2 of the upper panel 7 is equal to or greater than a predetermined value e2 (S36). If the angle adjustment abnormality counter E2 is equal to or greater than the predetermined value e2, the angle adjustment determination unit 24 of the failure determination unit 21 detects a failure in the angle adjustment of the upper panel 7 (S37). By setting the predetermined value e2 to a value greater than 1, for example, it is possible to prevent erroneous detections of the presence or absence of a failure from occurring. Even if the angle adjustment abnormality counter E2 is smaller than the predetermined value e2, S36 is repeatedly executed at predetermined time intervals.

[0055] 5, 6, and 9, angle adjustment determination unit 24 of failure determination unit 21 compares whether angle adjustment abnormality counter F2 of lower panel 8 is equal to or greater than predetermined value f2 (S38). If angle adjustment abnormality counter F2 is equal to or greater than predetermined value f2, angle adjustment determination unit 24 of failure determination unit 21 detects a malfunction in the angle adjustment of lower panel 8 (S39). By setting predetermined value f2 to a value greater than 1, for example, it is possible to prevent erroneous detection of a malfunction from occurring. Even if angle adjustment abnormality counter F2 is smaller than predetermined value f2, S38 is repeatedly executed at predetermined time intervals.

[0056] The solar power generation device 1 of the second embodiment described above achieves the same effects as the first embodiment. Furthermore, as shown in FIGS. 1 and 4 , the solar panels 9 include an upper panel 7 that faces upward and receives direct sunlight, and a lower panel 8 that faces downward and receives reflected sunlight. The rocking mechanism 10 includes an upper motor (upper rocking mechanism) 11 that rocks the upper panel 7, and a lower motor (lower rocking mechanism) 12 that rocks the lower panel 8. The failure determination unit 21 includes an upper determination unit 24a that determines whether or not there is a failure in the upper motor 11 based on the amount of power generation of the upper panel 7 that changes with a change in the upper rocking angle θ2 of the upper panel 7. The failure determination unit 21 also includes a lower determination unit 24b that determines whether or not there is a failure in the lower motor 12 based on the amount of power generation of the lower panel 8 that changes with a change in the lower rocking angle θ3 of the lower panel 8.

[0057] Therefore, by detecting the amount of power generated by the upper panel 7, it is possible to easily determine whether the upper panel 7 is swung at the normal upper swing angle θ2. This makes it easy to determine whether the upper motor 11 is malfunctioning. By detecting the amount of power generated by the lower panel 8, it is easy to determine whether the lower panel 8 is swung at the normal lower swing angle θ3. This makes it easy to determine whether the lower motor 12 is malfunctioning.

[0058] The technology disclosed in this specification is not limited to the above-described embodiment and can be modified in various ways. A solar power generation device 1 installed on an artificial tidal flat 30 has been exemplified. Alternatively, the technology of the present disclosure can be applied to a solar power generation device installed on land or on a water surface other than a tidal flat. A water surface 35 has been exemplified as a reflective surface that reflects sunlight to the lower panel 8. Alternatively, a reflector installed on the ground or on the water can be used as a reflective surface for the lower panel. A solar power generation device 1 equipped with two solar panels 9, an upper panel 7 and a lower panel 8, has been exemplified. Alternatively, the technology of the present disclosure can be applied to a solar power generation device equipped with only either an upper panel or a lower panel.

[0059] For example, the roof may be able to rotate horizontally around the pillars 3 to align with the direction of the sun. This makes it easy to align the orientation of the solar panels 9 and the arrangement of the multiple light receiving units 13 with the direction of sunlight. The example shows the upper panel 7 and the lower panel 8 swinging in the pitch direction around the axis 6. Alternatively, the upper panel 7 and the lower panel 8 may be configured to swing not only in the pitch direction but also in the roll direction. Here, the swing axis in the roll direction is an axis that passes through the axis 6 and extends in the longitudinal direction of each of the upper panel 7 and the lower panel 8. This makes it easier to bring the upper angle θ4 and the lower angle θ5 closer to 90°.

[0060] In the example shown, the swing mechanism 10 swings the upper panel 7 and the lower panel 8 in a linked manner so that the upper swing angle θ2 and the lower swing angle θ3 are the same in opposite positive and negative directions. Alternatively, if the roof 2 or the reflecting surface is inclined relative to the horizontal direction, for example, the upper panel 7 and the lower panel 8 may be swung in a linked manner so that the upper swing angle θ2 and the lower swing angle θ3 are different in magnitude. The upper panel 7 and the lower panel 8 may swing in a linked manner, or may swing independently.

[0061] When determining whether the solar panel 9 is capable of generating power or whether there is a malfunction in the solar panel 9, an example was given in which the initial position was a position in which the upper panel 7 and the lower panel 8 are both horizontal and the upper swing angle θ2 and the lower swing angle θ3 are 0°. Alternatively, the initial position may be a position in which the upper panel 7 and the lower panel 8 have an upper swing angle θ2 of +45° and a lower swing angle θ3 of -45°. For example, the initial position may be a position in which the upper panel 7 and the lower panel 8 have an upper swing angle θ2 of +90° and a lower swing angle θ3 of -90°. For example, the initial position may be a position in which the upper panel 7 and the lower panel 8 have an upper swing angle θ2 of +(90°-θ1) in equation (4) and a lower swing angle θ3 of -(90°-θ1) in equation (5).

[0062] When determining whether solar panel 9 is capable of generating power, the assumption has been given that the power generation amounts C(t) and D(t) are proportional to each other as an example of the relationship between the power generation amount C(t) of upper panel 7 and the power generation amount D(t) of lower panel 8 due to changes in the swing angle of upper panel 7 and lower panel 8. The technology of the present disclosure can also be applied to cases where the power generation amounts C(t) and D(t) have a relationship other than proportionality, for example, a non-proportional positive correlation.

[0063] The predetermined values ​​a, b, c, d, e, f, g, e2, f2, etc. in each flow illustrated in the embodiment may be changed as appropriate, without being limited to the values ​​illustrated, depending on, for example, the time of day when the solar power generation device generates power, the weather, the season, the installation location (latitude), etc. [Explanation of symbols]

[0064] 1...Solar power generation equipment 2...Roof, 2a...Bottom surface, 2b...Edge 3...pillar 4...Upper panel member 5...Lower panel member 6…Axis center 7...Upper panel 8...Lower panel 9...Solar panels 10...Oscillating mechanism 11...Upper motor (upper swing mechanism) 12...Lower motor (lower swing mechanism) 13...Light receiving section 14...Panel temperature detection section 15...Outside temperature detector 16...Level gauge, 16a...Float 20...Control unit 21...Failure determination section 22...Temperature judgment section 23...Power generation capacity determination section 24... Angle adjustment judgment section, 24a... Upper judgment section, 24b... Lower judgment section 25...Power generation amount detection unit 26…Angle adjustment section 27...Solar altitude detector 30...Artificial tidal flats 31...tank, 31a...bottom surface, 31b...top surface 32...Mooring 33…Wet mud layer 34…Water 35…Water surface (reflective surface) 36...Gas phase S...Sea surface T1,Т2…Solar light T3…Reflected light θ1…Angle (sun altitude) θ2: Upper swing angle θ3: Lower swing angle θ4…Upper angle θ5…lower angle L1, K1...lattice distance L2, K2...Light receiving distance L3: Water level (from the bottom of the roof) L4: Height (of the top of the tank) L5...height (underside of roof) L6: Water level (from the top of the tank) H1,H2…Horizontal position

Claims

1. A solar power generation device, Solar panels and a swing mechanism for swinging the solar panel; a power generation amount detection unit that detects the amount of power generated by the solar panel; a failure determination unit that determines a failure of the rocking mechanism, the failure determination unit swings the solar panel when it determines that the solar panel is in a state where it can generate electricity; A solar power generation device that determines whether or not there is a malfunction in the swing mechanism based on the amount of power generated by the solar panel that changes with the swing angle of the solar panel.

2. The solar power generation device according to claim 1, a panel temperature detection unit that detects the panel temperature of the solar panel; An outside air temperature detection unit is provided to detect the outside air temperature, The failure determination unit determines whether the solar panel is in a state where it can generate electricity based on the panel temperature and the outside air temperature.

3. The solar power generation device according to claim 2, The failure determination unit determines that the solar panel is in a state where it can generate electricity when the panel temperature is higher than the outside air temperature by a predetermined temperature or more.

4. The solar power generation device according to any one of claims 1 to 3, The solar panel has an upper panel that faces upward and directly receives sunlight, and a lower panel that faces downward and receives reflected sunlight, The swing mechanism swings the upper panel and the lower panel in conjunction with each other, The failure determination unit determines whether or not there is a failure in the swing mechanism based on the relationship between the amount of power generated by the upper panel and the amount of power generated by the lower panel due to changes in the swing angle of the upper panel and the lower panel.

5. The solar power generation device according to any one of claims 1 to 3, The solar panel has an upper panel that faces upward and directly receives sunlight, and a lower panel that faces downward and receives reflected sunlight, The swing mechanism includes an upper swing mechanism that swings the upper panel and a lower swing mechanism that swings the lower panel, The solar power generation device has, as the failure determination unit, an upper determination unit that determines whether or not there is a failure in the upper rocking mechanism based on the amount of change in the power generation amount of the upper panel due to a change in the rocking angle of the upper panel, and a lower determination unit that determines whether or not there is a failure in the lower rocking mechanism based on the amount of change in the power generation amount of the lower panel due to a change in the rocking angle of the lower panel.

Images