Method for positioning PV surfaces for optimized solar irradiance

Abstract

Disclosed is a method for positioning a PV surface (10), in which location data and the initial position of the PV surface (10) are provided. Then, radiation data corresponding to the location of the PV surface (10) are also provided. The method involves the maximum radiation vector (V) of the sun. Rmax ) In the step of determining the normal radiation vector (N) of the PV surface (10) Rmax ) In the step of determining the normal radiation vector (N) of the PV surface (10) Rmax ) is the sun's maximum radiation vector (V Rmax The present invention is characterized by including the steps of determining the adjustment position of the PV surface (10) so as to be aligned with the PV surface (10), and changing the position of the PV surface (10) to the adjustment position. Another object of the present invention is a computer program that performs all steps in accordance with the present disclosure.

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] This disclosure relates to the field of photovoltaic power generation, and more specifically to systems including solar radiation receiving surfaces. The present invention describes a method for increasing the solar energy potential of a photovoltaic surface by defining its optimal spatial orientation with respect to the direction of solar radiation, taking into account different shapes and shading conditions of the structure. [Background technology]

[0002] Global energy consumption has been steadily increasing over the past few years. Forecasts of even greater energy demand in the coming decades are driving industries to seek alternative energy sources and improve the efficiency of existing ones.

[0003] Solar energy is a powerful renewable energy source. Photovoltaic systems can be applied to a variety of locations, such as rooftops, building-integrated systems, solar power plants, and agrivoltaics. Several attempts have been made to increase the energy yield from such photovoltaic systems.

[0004] For example, Polish patent application PL435069 describes a method for increasing the energy yield of solar modules installed on the roof of a building by planning the arrangement and orientation of those modules. However, it focuses on flat surfaces, is limited to rigid PV modules, and the orientation is partially restricted due to the geometry and orientation of the roof itself, meaning the optimal installation angle depends on the location of the roof and the surrounding area.

[0005] The rapid development of flexible and lightweight photovoltaic technologies, such as perovskite solar cells, makes it possible to introduce a variety of new functionalities compared to what existing photovoltaic systems must provide. The characteristics of these emerging PV technologies offer the feasibility of a wider range of applications, including installation on diverse and different shapes of elements in constructed or natural environments, as well as their integration or integration into them. Furthermore, lightweight and thin-film solar modules can be used in space applications where the weight and volume of devices placed inside a spacecraft play a critical role due to the limited space within the spacecraft and have a significant impact in terms of total launch costs.

[0006] Furthermore, photovoltaic equipment is showing increasing demand because it can help diversify energy sources and provide green, renewable energy that can at least partially meet increased energy consumption. It is desirable to utilize such functionality to find ways to maximize the energy potential of solar-receiving surfaces in various shapes and under different shading conditions. [Overview of the project]

[0007] To overcome at least some of the problems discussed above, to make the most beneficial use of the solar energy potential according to the requirements of a given PV system, to improve the performance of the PV system, and to meet increasing energy demands, there is a need to provide a method for optimizing the spatial orientation of a solar radiation receiving surface, referred to in this disclosure as a PV surface, with respect to the direction of solar radiation. Furthermore, there is a need to provide a method that may be applicable to both planar and non-planar surfaces and that takes into account different shading conditions.

[0008] In one aspect of the present invention, a method is provided that includes steps necessary to obtain a spatial orientation of a PV surface that provides the optimized solar potential of the PV surface described above. The optimized solar potential of a PV surface is achieved when the surface receives either the maximum irradiance or another specific irradiance value. For example, the optimized potential can be considered achieved when a specific irradiance value other than the maximum value, e.g., a predetermined value, or a value that is greater than or equal to a predetermined threshold (given as a value or percentage) compared to the maximum irradiance, or a value higher than a predetermined threshold (given as a value or percentage) is obtained from the currently received irradiance.

[0009] The method includes a step of finding the maximum radiation vector for a specific location (e.g., the installation location of the PV surface) and for a specific time frame. The maximum radiation vector according to this disclosure is a vector that identifies the direction of the maximum solar radiation, and it takes into account direct and diffuse radiation. Direct radiation defines the radiation coming directly from the sun, and it is calculated based on the generally known orbit of the sun at a specific geographical location and time. Diffuse radiation is the portion of the total radiation that reaches the Earth's surface after changes in its direction due to scattering by the atmosphere. Although diffuse radiation is often omitted in commonly used solar tracking methods, it has a significant impact on obtaining a good estimate of the optimal energy potential. For the purposes of this disclosure, it should be understood that the maximum radiation vector defines the maximum radiation coming from direct and diffuse radiation.

[0010] Next, the method includes finding a vector normal to the PV surface being analyzed and aligning it with a previously found maximum radiation vector. The normal vector can be defined for both flat and non-flat surfaces. The step of aligning the normal vector and the maximum radiation vector allows for reaching an optimized solar potential for the surface being analyzed. In addition, the amount of irradiance received by the surface can be controlled by adjusting the angle between the normal vector and the maximum radiation vector.

[0011] Furthermore, the method includes an additional step of optimizing the spatial orientation of the PV surface being analyzed, which is particularly useful when the surface is exposed to external factors such as trees or buildings (external shading), as well as shading caused by parts of the same photovoltaic system. External shading is understood as all objects in the vicinity of the PV system that can cast a shadow on the system, excluding elements of the system itself.

[0012] In addition, the presented disclosure describes a method for optimizing the spatial orientation of PV surfaces, which are part of a larger photovoltaic system. In such applications, self-shielding occurs when certain PV surfaces or parts thereof cast shadows on each other and must be considered in evaluating the overall performance of the PV system.

[0013] Details and specific aspects of the method according to the present invention are specified in detail in the attached set of claims. [Brief explanation of the drawing]

[0014] The present invention is illustrated by exemplary embodiments shown in the drawings.

[0015] [Figure 1a] A block diagram of a method for positioning a light-shielded PV surface for optimized solar irradiance is presented. [Figure 1b] A block diagram of a method for positioning a PV surface for optimized solar irradiance for an unshielded PV surface is presented. [Figure 2] The steps for calculating the maximum radiation vector according to the first embodiment of this disclosure are presented. [Figure 3] The steps for calculating the maximum radiation vector according to a second embodiment of this disclosure are presented. [Figure 4] The steps for calculating the maximum radiation vector according to a second embodiment of this disclosure are presented. [Figure 5] The steps for calculating the maximum radiation vector according to a second embodiment of this disclosure are presented. [Figure 6] The steps for calculating the maximum radiation vector according to the third embodiment of this disclosure are presented. [Figure 7] This invention presents a step for calculating the normal vectors of flat and non-flat PV surfaces according to embodiments of this disclosure. [Figure 8] This invention presents a step in determining the adjustment position of the PV surface according to the embodiments of this disclosure. [Figure 9] The PV surface at the adjustment position according to the embodiments of this disclosure is presented. [Figure 10a] The initial position, adjusted position, and optimal position of the PV surface according to the embodiments of this disclosure are presented, respectively. [Figure 10b] The initial position, adjusted position, and optimal position of the PV surface according to the embodiments of this disclosure are presented, respectively. [Figure 10c] The initial position, adjusted position, and optimal position of the PV surface according to the embodiments of this disclosure are presented, respectively. [Figure 11] A PV system including a PV surface in an initial position according to embodiments of this disclosure is presented. [Figure 12] A PV system including a PV surface at an adjustment position according to an embodiment of this disclosure is presented. [Figure 13] A PV system including a PV surface at an optimal position according to embodiments of this disclosure is presented. [Figure 14] A PV system including a PV surface in an initial position according to embodiments of this disclosure is presented. [Figure 15] A PV system including a PV surface at an adjustment position according to an embodiment of this disclosure is presented. [Figure 16] A PV system including a PV surface at an optimal position according to embodiments of this disclosure is presented. [Modes for carrying out the invention]

[0016] Herein, references are made to embodiments, examples of which are illustrated in the accompanying drawings. Aspects and features of the present invention are described with reference to the accompanying drawings. In the drawings, similar reference numerals indicate similar elements. However, the present invention can be embodied in a variety of different forms and should not be construed as being limited only to the exemplary embodiments. Rather, the presented embodiments are provided as examples so that this disclosure may be thorough and complete and so as to convey aspects and features of the present invention to those skilled in the art. Not all features shown in the embodiments are essential, and it should be understood that the scope of protection is defined by the features provided in the claims, not by the literally shown embodiments.

[0017] Before a method for positioning the PV surface is performed, location data and initial position data of the PV surface must be provided. Radiation data corresponding to the location of the PV surface must also be provided. Radiation data can be based on historical data, live radiometric data, and / or forecast data. In the context of this invention, the term “initial position” refers to the reference position from which any modifications to the PV surface position are performed. “Initial position data” includes, for example, the orientation and inclination angle of the PV surface relative to an arbitrary reference plane.

[0018] Figures 1a and 1b illustrate a method for positioning a PV surface for optimized solar irradiance according to the present disclosure. The method includes steps as shown in Figures 1a and 1b. Figure 1a illustrates steps of a method according to a first embodiment of the present disclosure, applicable to a PV surface exposed to shading conditions. Figure 1b illustrates steps of a method according to a second embodiment of the present disclosure, applicable to a PV surface not exposed to shading conditions. The method shown in Figure 1a includes the following steps: - Maximum radial vector V Rmax Calculation step 110, - The normal radiation vector N is a vector in the direction normal to the PV surface being analyzed. Rmax Calculation step 120, - Maximum radiation vector V calculated in step 110Rmax and the normal vector N calculated in step 120 Rmax Step 130 to determine the adjustment position in which the two are aligned. -Step 140 changes the position of the PV surface to the adjustment position determined in step 130. -Step 150: Adjusting the position of the PV surface to the optimal location. Includes.

[0019] The method shown in Figure 1b differs from the method shown in Figure 1a in that it does not include step 150.

[0020] The method is applicable to solar radiation-receiving surfaces of various scales and can be used in a variety of applications. For example, it can be applied to large-scale PV applications such as space applications, building-applied photovoltaics, building-attached photovoltaics, and large-scale self-contained photovoltaics including solar power plants, or to small-scale PV applications such as everyday objects including PV modules or IoT devices. The PV surface may be a flat surface, a non-flat surface, or a polysurface.

[0021] The method uses location data of the PV surface being analyzed. This location is used to collect input data, including meteorological data, if meteorological data is available for this location. If meteorological data is not available for this location, it may be collected for another location on the Earth's surface that is near the actual location of the PV surface being analyzed and for which meteorological data is available. The input data may be historical meteorological data, but it should be understood that other input data may be used as an alternative. Other input data may be live radiation data or weather forecast data. For space applications, the input data may be acquired by measuring devices placed on objects located in space, such as on satellites.

[0022] The method also uses time intervals that may be, for example, one year, one day, one hour, one minute, or one second. Note that the adjustment position or optimal position of the PV surface may be constant or variable. The position of the PV surface may be changed in real time according to time intervals ranging from one second to one year. The terms "position" and "orientation" of the surface are used interchangeably. Note that when the position changes, the orientation also changes.

[0023] Figure 2 shows the maximum radiation vector V. Rmax Details of a first embodiment for performing step 110 of calculating the radiation value are presented. It can be performed for a specific location and a specific time frame. The radiation dome 21 is spread around a reference point 22 where the PV surface to be analyzed is located. The radiation dome 21 has a hemispherical shape. The center of the hemisphere is positioned at the center of the PV surface at the reference point 22. The radiation dome 21 is divided into a mesh containing a plurality of dome mesh faces 23, each of which is a separate measurement point. The radiation value is calculated for each measurement point based on selected meteorological data for a specific location and time interval. The minimum time interval in which the calculation is performed depends on the data provided by the meteorological data source. Each measurement point receives a given radiation represented by the radiation value. The radiation value is described by the length of a vector in the direction normal to the surface of a given measurement point. This vector can be called the normal radiation vector. The radiation dome 21 is associated with a number of measurement points, where the number of measurement points corresponds to the number of normal radiation vectors. Each measurement point can receive a different amount of radiation depending on the orientation of the dome mesh surface 23 to the radiation. The more radiation a measurement point receives, the longer the normal radiation vector becomes. The maximum radiation vector V according to the first embodiment presented herein. Rmax The method for calculating this is to find a single vector that is the average of all normal radiation vectors (for all measurement points), for example, a weighted average. When calculating the weighted average, the weights are the radiation values. Maximum radiation vector V Rmaxis a single vector calculated for a specific location and a specific time frame, taking into account the radiation value at each measurement point. The number of measurement points can also be referred to as the density of the radiation dome 21 mesh. The higher the density, the more accurate the results obtained. Maximum radiation vector V Rmax corresponds to a single vector that is the average of the normal radiation vectors. The diameter of the hemisphere forming the radiation dome 21 is selected such that separate measurement points can be determined. The diameter of the hemisphere may be any value.

[0024] Figures 3 to 5 illustrate the maximum radiation vector V according to the second embodiment Rmax present the details of implementing step 110 for calculating. Step 110 according to the present embodiment includes an optimization process. A sample PV surface 11 is introduced, and the sample PV surface 11 is a flat surface. The sample PV surface 11 may have any area. Preferably, the area of the sample PV surface 11 is 1 cm 2 and 100 m 2 varies between. Preferably, the area of the sample PV surface 11 is 10 cm 2 and 10 m 2 varies between. Preferably, the area of the sample PV 11 is 1 m 2 . The shape and type of the sample PV surface 11 are independent of the shape and type of the PV surface 10 for which the method for positioning for optimized solar irradiance is performed in accordance with the present disclosure. The sample PV surface 11 is arranged at the center of the Cartesian coordinate system XYZ. It should be noted that the sub-steps of step 110 described below may alternatively be performed in a different coordinate system capable of describing the sample PV surface 11. Maximum radiation vector V Rmax corresponds to the projections of the maximum radiation vector V onto the horizontal (xy) plane 14 and the vertical (yz) plane 15 of the Cartesian coordinate system, as shown in Figures 3 to 5 Rmax corresponding to two component vectors V Rmax1 (in the present embodiment, V shown in Figure 3 Rmax xy ) and V Rmax2 (in the present embodiment, V shown in Figure 4 Rmax yz) consists of the following. Step 110 according to this embodiment includes calculating the optimal rotation angle of the sample PV surface 11 corresponding to the maximum solar energy potential at which the sample PV surface 11 receives maximum solar radiation. The rotation angle of the sample PV surface 11 is the azimuth angle β and the tilt angle α, where the azimuth angle β is the angle around the Z axis (as shown in Figure 3) and the tilt angle α is the angle around the X axis (as shown in Figure 4). The analysis is started when the sample PV surface 11 is in its initial position. The optimal rotation angle, including the azimuth angle β and the tilt angle α, is found by measuring the energy potential of the sample PV surface 11 for the current angle, iteratively increasing the rotation angle, which can be the azimuth angle β and the tilt angle α, by an incremental step, and then measuring the energy potential for the next obtained angle. The incremental step is 0.1 o and 10 o It can vary between 1. Preferably, the increment step is 1 o The optimal rotation angle (optimal azimuth angle β and optimal tilt angle α) is the angle at which the maximum energy potential is obtained by the sample PV surface 11. The optimal azimuth angle β and optimal tilt angle α are determined separately and independently. The initial position is determined by the maximum radiation vector V obtained. Rmax It should be noted that this does not affect the maximum radiation vector V. Starting from different initial positions may result in different values ​​of the optimal azimuth angle β and / or optimal tilt angle α at which the sample PV surface 11 is rotated to be positioned to produce maximum solar radiation. Rmax This is the same regardless of the initial position of the sample PV surface 11.

[0025] Preferably, the optimal azimuth angle β is calculated first, and the optimal tilt angle α is calculated second. However, the optimal tilt angle α may be defined first, and the optimal azimuth angle β may be calculated second. After the optimal azimuth angle β is determined, the sample PV surface 11 is set to the position defined by this optimal azimuth angle β, as shown in Figure 3. A normal vector is determined for the sample PV surface 11 placed at this position. Then, the maximum radiation vector V is determined. Rmax Component vector V Rmax1 (In this embodiment, V Rmax xyThe component vector V is determined. Rmax xy This is a vector in the opposite direction to the normal vector for the sample PV surface 11 positioned at the optimal azimuth angle β. Correspondingly, after the optimal tilt angle α of the sample PV surface 11 is determined, the sample PV surface 11 is set to the position defined by the optimal tilt angle. The normal vector for the sample PV surface 11 positioned at this location is also determined. Next, the maximum radiation vector V Rmax Component vector V Rmax2 (In this embodiment, V Rmax yz The component vector V is determined. Rmax yz This is a vector in the opposite direction to the normal vector to the sample PV surface 11 positioned at the optimal tilt angle α. Maximum radiation vector V Rmax These are two component vectors V corresponding to the optimal rotation angle of the sample PV surface 11. Rmax xy and V Rmax yz This is the total.

[0026] Figure 6 shows the maximum radiation vector V according to the third embodiment. Rmax Details of performing step 110 for calculating the maximum radiation vector V are presented. Step 110 according to this embodiment uses an optimization model. The sample PV surface 11 is placed in the XYZ coordinate system and oriented toward radiation. The sample PV surface 11 is rotated within the coordinate system until it reaches a position where it receives maximum radiation. Once this position is reached, a vector in the direction of the normal to the sample PV surface 11 is determined. The maximum radiation vector V is then calculated. Rmax The maximum radiation vector V is determined. Rmax This vector is in the opposite direction to the normal vector to the sample PV surface 11 positioned at the location where the PV surface 11 receives the maximum radiation.

[0027] In step 110, the maximum radiation vector V is calculated, including, for example, a matrix-based transformation operation, or an operation using experimental data, empirical data, and other statistical data, using methods known in the art. Rmax Please note that other alternative methods for calculating this can be used.

[0028] Figure 7 shows the normal radiation vector N of the PV surface 10 according to this disclosure. Rmax We present step 120 for calculating the normal radiation vector N. Rmax This can be determined for flat and non-flat PV surfaces. The PV surface 10 is discretized into a PV mesh containing multiple PV mesh faces 13. Each PV mesh face 13 has a normal vector N n Includes the parameter area n It has a surface area described by N. Rmax is a scalar value area n The normal vector N of the PV mesh surface 13 multiplied by n This is a vector calculated as a weighted average of the normal radiation vectors N of the PV surface 10. Rmax Equation I:

number

[0029] The total number of PV mesh faces 13 affects the calculation time and accuracy. The more PV mesh faces 13 considered, the denser the mesh becomes, and the more accurate the results. Normal radiation vector N calculated according to step 120. Rmax This is used in the next step of the method relating to this disclosure.

[0030] Figure 8 presents, according to an embodiment of the present disclosure, a step 130 for determining the adjustment position of the PV surface 10 and a step 140 for changing the position of the PV surface 10 to the adjustment position. The adjustment position of the PV surface 10 corresponds to a position where increased solar radiation is received and the energy potential of the PV surface 10 is enhanced. The PV surface 10 in the embodiment shown in Figure 8 is a non-planar surface, and it is positioned in its initial position. It should be noted that steps 130 and 140 can be equivalently performed for a planar PV surface. Prior to steps 130 and 140, the maximum radiation vector V Rmax Step 110 calculates the normal radiation vector N Rmax A calculation step 120 is performed.

[0031] The maximum radiation vector V calculated in step 110 according to the embodiments of this disclosure Rmax It is described in a three-dimensional Cartesian coordinate system XYZ that includes three orthogonal planes, namely planes XY, XZ, and YZ, and three orthogonal axes of rotation, namely axes X, Y, and Z. Maximum radiation vector V Rmax This is a three-component vector V Rmax xy , V Rmax xz , V Rmax yz This includes, where each component vector corresponds to the projection of that vector onto the corresponding plane.

[0032] Normal radiation vector N calculated in step 120 Rmax And the normal radiation vector N Rmax The vector corresponding to the position of the PV surface 10 can be described in the same three-dimensional coordinate system XYZ as described above, and is similarly projected onto the planes XY, XZ, and YZ of that coordinate system. Normal radiation vector N Rmax Its initial point is at the origin of the coordinate system, and the origin is the point where all the rotation axes intersect each other. Normal radiation vector N Rmax It is projected onto each of the three planes of the coordinate system, thereby giving us three component vectors N Rmax xy , N Rmax xz , N Rmax yz This includes, where each of the three component vectors is the projection or normal radiation vector N on the corresponding plane.Rmax It corresponds to.

[0033] Maximum radiating vector V Rmax Each component vector is the normal radiation vector N Rmax An angle is formed between each corresponding component vector of V, that is, as shown in Figure 8, Rmax xy and N Rmax xy The XY angle formed between V Rmax xz and N Rmax xz The XZ angle and V are formed between them. Rmax yz and N Rmax yz It forms a YZ angle between and

[0034] To obtain the adjustment position of the PV surface 10, it is rotated around at least one of the rotation axes present in the three-dimensional coordinate system, i.e., axis X, axis Y, and axis Z, and the maximum radiation vector V Rmax Component vectors and normal radiation vector N Rmax Adjust the angle between the corresponding component vectors and V Rmax and N Rmax Adjust the position. The adjustment position of the PV surface 10 is V Rmax =-N Rmax This is obtained when the PV surface is rotated around at least one axis of rotation. Preferably, the PV surface 10 is rotated around exactly two axes of rotation. The inventors have found that rotation around two axes of rotation is sufficient to position the PV surface 10 in the adjustment position. Preferably, the PV surface 10 has a normal radiation vector N Rmax The components and the maximum radiation vector V Rmax To adjust the angles YZ and XY between the components, it is rotated around axes X and Z. The adjustment position of the PV surface 10 is such that both angles YZ and XY are adjusted, thereby V Rmax yz and N Rmax yz The two are parallel, and V Rmax xz and N Rmax xz This is achieved when the two sides are parallel. The PV surface 10 is V Rmax and N RmaxIt should be understood that the corresponding component vectors can be equally rotated around axis Y and axis Z so as to be parallel. In fact, rotation around any combination of two different rotation axes gives the desired result. It should also be noted that rotations applied in any order give the same result.

[0035] Figure 9 presents the PV surface 10 in the adjusted position, obtained after performing step 130 of determining the adjusted position and step 140 of changing the position of the PV surface 10 to the adjusted position. For a specific time interval and at a specific location, the maximum radiation vector V Rmax Based on the assumption that there is only one, the PV surface 10, V Rmax =-N Rmax When adjusted to the position that is, receives the maximum energy potential.

[0036] Maximum radiation vector V Rmax and normal radiation vector N Rmax It should be understood that can be calculated in any established coordinate system different from the 3D Cartesian coordinate system XYZ as described above. In such cases, step 130 and step 140 are performed with the maximum radiation vector V Rmax and normal radiation vector N Rmax can be performed in the established coordinate system that was previously calculated. It should be noted that although vectors, positions and angles may be represented differently in other coordinate systems, the geometric relationships between them described in the present disclosure should be applied as appropriate.

[0037] Figures 10a to 10c respectively present the initial position, adjusted position and optimal position of the PV surface 10 according to the embodiments of the present disclosure, where the PV surface 10 is exposed to shadow casting conditions. The optimal position of the PV surface 10 corresponds to a position where the amount of radiation received by the PV surface 10 is optimized. In some applications, it may correspond to a position where the PV surface 10 receives an increased amount of radiation. In other applications, it may correspond to a position where the PV surface 10 receives a different desired amount of radiation. By changing the position of the PV surface 10 to the optimal position, it becomes possible to control the amount of radiation received by the PV surface 10.

[0038] In the example presented in Figures 10a to 10c, a shadow falls on the PV surface 10. Shadow casting arising from structures including parts of the same PV system of which the PV surface 10 may be a part or adjacent infrastructure affects the efficiency of photovoltaic performance. The initial orientation of the PV surface 10, together with the structure that causes the shadow, is presented in Figure 10a. The adjusted position of the PV surface 10 after performing steps 110 to 140 in accordance with the method of the present disclosure as described above is presented in Figure 10b.

[0039] The step 150 of changing the position of the PV surface 10 to the optimal position according to the disclosed method is performed after the position of the PV surface 10 is changed to the adjusted position, and correspondingly, steps 110 to 140 according to the present disclosure are completed. Step 150 includes the normal radiation vector N of the PV surface 10 Rmax and the maximum radiation vector V Rmax are adjusted, followed by the rotation step of the PV surface 10 about the axis corresponding to the normal radiation vector N of the PV surface 10 Rmax . The rotation step addresses the effect of shadow casting on the photovoltaic performance of the PV surface 10 and makes it possible to obtain the optimal position of the PV surface 10. This rotation step additionally makes it possible to control the amount of radiation received by the PV surface 10.

[0040] To define the degree of shading influence on the PV surface 10, a parameter called the goodness-of-fit function is introduced. The value of the goodness-of-fit function allows for the assessment of the current shading influence on the PV surface 10 located at a particular position. The PV surface 10 is divided into a mesh containing multiple PV mesh faces 13, as shown in Figures 10a-c. The division into PV mesh faces 13 may be identical to the division into PV mesh faces 13 for step 120, or it may follow a different division rule (for example, more or fewer PV mesh faces 13 may be created). Each PV mesh face 13 receives a specific amount of radiation. The value of the component goodness-of-fit function is calculated for each PV mesh face 13 of the PV surface 10. The value of the component goodness-of-fit function for a PV mesh face 13 is equal to the maximum radiation vector V on the PV mesh face 13. Rmax It depends on the length of the projection. The component fit function is the projected maximum radiation vector V Rmax The maximum value is reached when the length of is at its minimum. This is the case for vector V. Rmax This occurs when the PV mesh surface 13 reaches the surface of the PV mesh surface 13 at an angle substantially perpendicular to the surface of the PV mesh surface 13, and thereby receives more solar radiation. The goodness-of-fit function is given by Equation II:

number

[0041] The component fitness function value is determined for each PV mesh surface 13. The sum of the component fitness function values ​​calculated for each of the multiple PV mesh surfaces 13 into which the PV surface 10 is divided determines the overall fitness function value. The rotation step according to step 150 of this disclosure is performed on the normal vector N of the PV surface 10. RmaxIt runs around an axis determined by the maximum radiation vector V. Rmax This also corresponds to . This step 150 includes iterative rotation around the axis and determining the value of the fitness function after each step. The value of the fitness function is maximized to minimize the effect of shadow formation and optimize the energy potential of the PV surface 10. The orientation of the PV surface 10 corresponding to the optimized energy potential is defined herein as the optimal position. The optimal position of the PV surface 10 is shown in Figure 10c. Step 150 is 0 o ~360 o and / or -360 o ~0 o Regarding the angle range, 0.1 o ~10 o This is performed in an increment step. More preferably, the increment step is 1 o That is the case.

[0042] The component fitness function value of the mesh surface 13 depends on the area of ​​the mesh surface 13. Thus, mesh surfaces 13 with a larger area have a greater influence on the overall fitness function value.

[0043] The goodness-of-fit function value is equal to 1 when there is no shadow on the PV surface 10, and equal to 0 or a value close to 0 (depending on the indirect radiation received) when the PV surface 10 is completely in shadow. The goodness-of-fit function makes it possible to control the amount of solar radiation received by the PV surface 10. This is particularly useful in applications where a controlled amount of radiation is required. For example, if there is a risk of overloading the grid, a limited amount of energy harvested may be required. In such situations, it is necessary to position the PV surface to capture a fixed, constant energy value, as exceeding this value would have adverse effects. Also, in space applications, the proper positioning of the PV surface is particularly important, where the amount of solar radiation incident on the PV surface can be higher than on Earth due to the absence of a barrier in the form of an atmosphere. Under such conditions, the optimal position of the PV surface can be set to avoid overheating and loss of system efficiency. Furthermore, when PV surfaces are arranged in a larger PV system, it may be necessary to equalize the amount of energy generated by each PV surface that is part of the PV system. The goodness-of-fit function makes it possible to control the amount of radiation received by each PV surface being analyzed. In the aforementioned applications where a controlled amount of solar radiation is required, a threshold for the fitness function is defined. The optimal position of the PV surface corresponds to the orientation at which the fitness function reaches the threshold.

[0044] Step 150 is presented herein with respect to a non-planar PV surface 10. However, it should be noted that it is equally applicable to a planar PV surface.

[0045] Figures 11-13 show a PV system 12 comprising a plurality of PV surfaces 10a-10i according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. The PV system 12 according to this embodiment comprises a plurality of flat PV surfaces 10a-10i mounted on a vertical structure. The PV system 12 is exposed to external shading. In such applications, in addition to external shading, another factor that may affect the performance of each PV surface and the PV system in general is self-shading, which occurs when some PV surfaces cast a shadow on at least one of the other PV surfaces that are part of the same PV system.

[0046] Figure 11 presents a PV system 12 with PV surfaces 10a-10i in their initial positions. Step 110 is performed to reach the maximum radiation vector V Rmax The normal radiation vector N is calculated and step 120 is performed for each of the PV surfaces 10a to 10i. Rmax The maximum radiation vector V is calculated. Steps 110 and 120 are performed in accordance with this disclosure. Rmax and normal radiation vector N Rmax This can be calculated according to other alternative methods known in the art.

[0047] Figure 12 shows a PV system 12 in which the PV surfaces 10a to 10i are in the adjustment position. These adjustment positions are obtained by performing step 130 to determine the adjustment position of each PV surface 10a to 10i and step 140 to change the position of the PV surfaces 10a to 10i to the adjustment position. Rmax and N Rmax The adjustments are made, and V Rmax =-N Rmax As shown in Figure 12, the PV surface according to this embodiment is exposed to self-shadowing.

[0048] Figure 13 presents a PV system 12 in which the PV surfaces 10a to 10i are in their optimal positions, which are obtained by performing step 150 to change the positions of the PV surfaces 10a to 10i to their optimal positions. In the case of self-shadowing, additional processing is required to optimize the solar potential of the PV system 12. This processing allows control over the effect of self-shadowing on the overall performance of the PV system 12. This processing includes an additional step 150 of rotation performed by the PV surfaces 10a to 10i. The PV surfaces 10a to 10i have a normal vector N Rmax They are rotated around a PV system 12. First, a reference PV surface 10 is determined to receive the most radiation. The amount of radiation for a particular PV surface 10 is described by a goodness-of-fit function value, as previously described in this disclosure. A goodness-of-fit function value is calculated for each PV surface 10a to 10i that is part of the PV system 12. Based on the goodness-of-fit function value for each PV surface 10a to 10i, an order can be established for the PV surfaces 10a to 10i that should be rotated. The PV surfaces are ordered to be rotated from the one with the highest goodness-of-fit function value to the one with the lowest. This means that the first PV surface 10 being rotated is this one, which is exposed to the least amount of shading. PV surfaces 10a to 10i that receive more radiation are rotated first compared to PV surfaces 10a to 10i that receive less radiation. The PV surfaces 10a to 10i are rotated to optimize their orientation with respect to the desired solar radiation they receive. The step of optimizing the orientation of the PV surfaces 10a to 10i ends when an orientation is reached that receives the desired solar radiation. The orientation of each PV surface 10a to 10i is optimized separately. The optimization stage of the PV system 12 is completed when the sum of the solar radiation received by each PV surface 10a to 10i, which is part of the PV system 12, is maximized or when the sum of solar radiation reaches a desired value. This is defined by the sum of the fitness function values ​​of the PV surfaces 10a to 10i, which is also previously defined as the overall fitness function value.

[0049] It should be noted that the method for positioning the PV surface 10, which is part of the larger PV system 12 described above, is equally applicable to systems including non-planar PV surfaces 10, or combinations of planar and non-planar PV surfaces 10, as shown in Figures 14-16. The PV surface 10 of such systems can be mounted vertically, as shown in Figures 11-13, or horizontally, as shown in Figures 14-16, to any structure. The PV surface 10 by the above method can be mounted to planar structures, including those inclined vertically, horizontally, or at any angle, or to curved structures in the form of a dome or funnel, or to any other two- or three-dimensional substructure. The shape of the structure to which the PV surface 10 is mounted can be arbitrary, insofar as it allows for the positioning of the PV surface 10 according to the disclosed method. Maximum radiation vector V Rmax and normal radiation vector N Rmax This can be found by the method described herein or by any other alternative method. Furthermore, the method can be applied to both static and dynamic photovoltaic systems. Various shapes and sizes of PV surfaces 10 (from small IoT devices to large BAPV or BIPV applications) can be targeted by the described method.

[0050] [Example 1] The solar radiation receiving structure is a non-planar PV surface 10. The PV surface 10 is located in the city of Wrocław, Poland, and is not exposed to shadow formation. The PV surface 10 is to be positioned to allow it to receive an increased amount of solar radiation. The method for positioning the PV surface 10 is carried out according to Figure 1b. The selected period is one hour between 11:00 AM and 12:00 PM on May 17, 2022. The average maximum radiation vector V for the selected time frame. Rmax The following is determined: Weather data for the selected location and time frame, including radiation values ​​and direction, is obtained from one of the publicly available sources, including EPW (EnergyPlus Weather Format) weather data.

[0051] Once all the necessary meteorological data is acquired, the maximum radiation vector V for location 10 on the PV surface will be determined. Rmax However, this is calculated in accordance with Step 110 of this disclosure. Rmax This is the two component vectors V Rmax xy and V Rmax yz It consists of, where, V Rmax xy V is on the plane XY(14) Rmax Corresponding to the projection of V Rmax yz V is on the plane YZ(15) of the Cartesian coordinate system XYZ. Rmax This corresponds to the projection, as shown in Figures 3-5. First, the component vector V Rmax yz The following is calculated. The sample PV surface 11 is placed at a first initial position in the same Cartesian coordinate system XYZ. The sample PV surface 11 is rotated incrementally around a first rotation axis until it reaches the optimal tilt angle at which it receives maximum radiation. The optimal tilt angle α is V Rmax yz This corresponds to the direction of V. Next, the component vector V Rmax xy The following is calculated. The sample PV surface 11 is placed back in its initial position in the same coordinate system XYZ. The sample PV surface 11 is rotated incrementally around the second rotation axis until it reaches the optimal azimuth angle β at which it receives maximum radiation. The optimal azimuth angle β is V Rmax xy Corresponds to the direction of the maximum radiation vector V. Rmax This is the two component vectors V Rmax xy and V Rmax yz It is determined by summing them up.

[0052] Normal radiation vector N Rmax This is obtained according to step 120 of the present disclosure. The non-planar PV surface 10 is divided into a mesh containing a plurality of n flat rectangular PV mesh surfaces 13. For each PV mesh surface 13, a vector N in the direction normal to its surface is obtained. n The normal radiation vector N of the non-flat PV surface 10 is determined. Each PV mesh surface 13 has a known surface area. Rmax This is calculated according to formula I.

number

[0053] Normal vector N Rmax This is the maximum radiation vector V Rmax It is described using the same coordinate system XYZ. Normal vector N Rmax is the component vector N Rmax xy , N Rmax yz , N Rmax xz It consists of the normal radiation vector N. Rmax The component vector is the maximum radiation vector V Rmax An angle is formed between the corresponding component vectors of N. Rmax xy and V Rmax xy This forms an angle XY. Correspondingly, N Rmax yz and V Rmax yz This forms the YZ angle.

[0054] In the next step, we will use the previously obtained vector, the maximum radiating vector V. Rmax and the normal radiation vector N of the PV surface 10 Rmax However, V Rmax =-N Rmax The PV surface 10 is adjusted according to steps 130 and 140 of this disclosure to achieve this. This is achieved by two rotational steps of the PV surface 10. Firstly, the PV surface 10 is rotated around a first rotation axis, and secondly, the PV surface 10 is rotated around a second rotation axis. The two rotational steps adjust the vector, N Rmax =-V Rmax This allows the PV surface 10 to be set to an orientation such that the XY angles are aligned, and this is called the adjustment position. First, the XY angles are aligned. Second, the YZ angles are aligned. This orientation allows the PV surface 10 to reach an increased solar energy potential according to the conditions described in this example.

[0055] List of reference symbols: 10:PV surface 11: Sample PV surface 12: PV System 13: PV mesh surface 14: 1st plane 15:Second plane 21: Radiation dome 22:Reference point 23: Dome mesh surface 110: Calculate the maximum radial vector. 120: Calculate the normal radiation vector of the PV surface. 130: Determine the adjustment position of the PV surface. 140: Change the position of the PV surface to the adjustment position. 150: Change the position of the PV surface to the optimal position. V Rmax : Maximum Radiation Vector V Rmax1 : The first component vector of the maximum radiation vector V Rmax2 : The second component vector of the maximum radiation vector N Rmax : Normal vector N n : Normal vector of each PV mesh surface α: Tilt angle β:Azimuth γ: Reference angle

Claims

1. A method for positioning a PV surface (10), wherein the method comprises the following steps, namely, (a) A step of providing location data corresponding to the location of the PV surface (10), (b) Providing radiation data corresponding to the radiation at the location on the PV surface (10), (c) Maximum radiation vector of the sun (V Ｒｍａｘ The stage of deciding (110) (d) The normal radiation vector (N) of the PV surface (10) Ｒｍａｘ The stage of deciding (120) (e) The normal radiation vector (N) of the PV surface (10) Ｒｍａｘ ) is the maximum radiation vector (V Ｒｍａｘ The step of determining (130) the adjustment position of the PV surface (10) that aligns with the ) (f) A step of changing the position of the PV surface (10) to the adjustment position (140), A method that includes [a certain feature].

2. After performing step (f), the method further performs the following steps, namely, (g) A step of changing the position of the PV surface (10) to the optimal position (150), Equipped with, Here, stage (g) is the following sub-stage, namely, (g11) A step of dividing the PV surface (10) into a mesh including a plurality of PV mesh surfaces (13), (g12) A step in which the component fitness function value is calculated for each PV mesh surface (13), (g13) A step of calculating the goodness of fit function value by summing the component goodness of fit function values ​​of each of the PV mesh surfaces (13), (g14) The normal radiation vector (N) of the PV surface (10) Ｒｍａｘ The step of rotating the PV surface (10) by an incremental step around an axis determined by ), Steps (g12) to (g14) are repeated until the desired goodness-of-fit function value is reached. (g15) A step of changing the position of the PV surface (10) to the optimal position corresponding to the position obtained after performing steps (g12) to (g14), including, The method according to claim 1.

3. The method according to claim 1, wherein the adjustment position of the PV surface (10) according to step (f) is obtained by rotating the PV surface (10) around two rotation axes.

4. The value of the rotation angle at step (g) is -360 ｏ ~0 and / or 0~360 ｏ The method according to claim 2, which is within the range.

5. The aforementioned maximum radiation vector (V Ｒｍａｘ The method according to claim 1, wherein step (c) of determining the direct radiation, diffuse radiation, and reflected radiation includes at least one of them, or a combination thereof.

6. Stage (c) is divided into the following sub-stages, namely, (c11) A step in which a reference point (22) on the PV surface (10) is determined to be the center of the PV surface (10), (c12) The step of determining the radial dome (21) around the reference point (22), (c13) A step in which the radiation dome (21) is divided into a mesh including a plurality of dome mesh surfaces (23), wherein each of the plurality of dome mesh surfaces (23) is a measurement point, (c14) The step of determining the radiation value for each measurement point, (c15) determining the maximum radiation vector as the weighted average of the radiation values received for each measurement point in step (c14) (V Ｒｍａｘ ), The method according to claim 1, including the method described in claim 1.

7. Stage (c) is divided into the following sub-stages, namely, (c21) A step of determining a coordinate system including a first plane (14) and a second plane (15), wherein the first plane (14) and the second plane (15) are orthogonal to each other and to the first axis of rotation and the second axis of rotation, and the first axis of rotation and the second axis of rotation are orthogonal to each other. (c22) Step of determining the sample PV surface (11), (c23) The step of positioning the sample PV surface (11) at the center of the coordinate system such that the sample PV surface (11) is in the first initial position, (c24) A step of rotating the sample PV surface (11) around the first rotation axis by a first increment angle, measuring the amount of radiation received by the sample PV surface (11) at the current position, and calculating the optimal first increment angle that maximizes the amount of radiation received by the sample PV surface (11). (c25) The maximum radiation vector (V Ｒｍａｘ The first component vector (V) of ) Ｒｍａｘ１ The step of determining the first component vector (V Ｒｍａｘ１ ) is a vector in the opposite direction to the normal vector to the sample PV surface (11) positioned at the position corresponding to the optimal first increment angle determined in step (c24), step (c26) The step of positioning the sample PV surface (11) at the center of the coordinate system such that the sample PV surface (11) is in the second initial position, (c27) A step of rotating the sample PV surface (11) by a second increment angle around the second rotation axis, measuring the amount of radiation received by the sample PV surface (11) at the current position, and calculating the optimal second increment angle that maximizes the amount of radiation received by the sample PV surface (11). (c28) The maximum radiation vector (V Ｒｍａｘ The second component vector (V) of ) Ｒｍａｘ２ The step of determining the second component vector (V Ｒｍａｘ２ ) is a vector in the opposite direction to the normal vector to the sample PV surface (11) positioned at the position corresponding to the optimal second increment angle determined in step (c27), step, (c29) The first component vector (V Ｒｍａｘ１ ) and the aforementioned second component vector (V Ｒｍａｘ２ ) and the sum of the above, the maximum radiation vector (V Ｒｍａｘ The method according to claim 1, comprising the step of determining (c23) to (c25) and (c26) to (c28) independently.

8. Stage (c) is divided into the following sub-stages, namely, (c31) The stage of determining the coordinate system, (c32) Step of determining the sample PV surface (11), (c33) The step of arranging the sample PV surface (11) in the coordinate system, (c34) A step of changing the orientation of the sample PV surface (11) within the coordinate system and measuring the amount of radiation received by the PV surface. (c35) The step of determining the orientation of the sample PV surface (11) that receives the maximum amount of radiation, (c36) The maximum radiation vector (V Ｒｍａｘ The step of determining the maximum radiation vector (V Ｒｍａｘ ) is a vector in the opposite direction to the normal vector to the sample PV surface (11) arranged in the orientation defined in step (c36), The method according to claim 1, including the method described in claim 1.

9. Stage (d) is divided into the following sub-stages, namely, (d11) A step of dividing the PV surface (10) into a mesh including a plurality of PV mesh surfaces (13), (d12) Normal vector (N) for each PV mesh surface (13) ｎ ) at the stage of deciding (d13) Surface area of ​​each PV mesh surface (13) (area ｎ ) at the stage of deciding (d14) Formula: [Math 4] Based on this, the normal vector (N) of the PV surface (10) Ｒｍａｘ This includes the step of calculating ), Here, n is the number of PV mesh surfaces (13) on the PV surface (10); N ｎ This is the normal vector of the nth PV mesh surface (13) of the PV surface (10); area ｎ The method according to claim 1, wherein is the area of ​​the nth PV mesh surface (13) of the PV surface (10).

10. The step (e) of determining the adjustment position of the PV surface (10) is comprised of the following sub-steps, namely, (e11) In the three-dimensional coordinate system, the maximum radiation vector (V) determined in step (c) Ｒｍａｘ The step of determining at least two component vectors of ) (e12) In the same coordinate system, the normal radiation vector (N) determined in step (d) Ｒｍａｘ The step of determining at least two component vectors of ) (e13) A step to determine the angle between the corresponding component vectors determined in steps (e12) and (e13), which is defined as the angle between each pair of corresponding component vectors in steps (e11) and (e12). (e14) A step of adjusting the angle determined in step (e13) so that the PV surface (10) is positioned in the adjustment position. The method according to claim 1, including the method described in claim 1.

11. The method according to claim 1, wherein at least two PV surfaces (10) are arranged adjacent to each other to form a PV system, and each PV surface (10) is positioned independently.

12. The method according to claim 1, wherein the radiation data provided in step (b) is selected from historical data, live radiation measurement data, or forecast data.

13. The method according to claim 1, wherein the adjustment position and / or optimal position of the PV surface (10) is constant or variable with real-time changes or time intervals ranging from one second to one year.

14. The method according to claim 1, wherein the PV surface (10) is a flat surface, a non-flat surface, or a polysurface.

15. A computer program for causing a computer to perform the method described in any one of claims 1 to 14.

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