3D Sky Cloud Mapping via Thermal and Optical Fusion
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current methods for assessing sky cloudiness are empirical and lack the reliability and precision needed for accurate forecasting in fields like aeronautics and solar energy production, leading to inefficiencies and increased costs due to unpredictable electricity generation from photovoltaic plants.
Innovation Solution
A system and method for three-dimensional cloud mapping using panoramic images and thermal radiation measurements to determine cloud cover and altitudes, combined with shape recognition algorithms and triangulation for precise cloud positioning, enabling accurate forecasting of shadow effects on photovoltaic panels.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If traditional human observation methods are used to assess sky cloudiness, then the system is simple and easy to operate, but the measurement precision and reliability are insufficient for accurate forecasting
Solution Approach 1:
The sky observation area is divided into multiple zones (at least four zones) that are imaged separately by multiple sensors. Each sensor captures a specific portion of the sky, and the images are then combined to create a complete panoramic view. This segmentation allows for higher measurement precision across the entire sky while keeping individual sensor requirements manageable.
Solution Approach 2:
The system transitions from two-dimensional image capture to three-dimensional cloud mapping by combining panoramic images from multiple sensors with thermal radiation measurements. The triangulation process using multiple sensor viewpoints adds a depth dimension, enabling precise determination of cloud altitude and spatial position, thus resolving the contradiction between comprehensive measurement and system complexity.
2Measurement precision
If multiple sensors and complex processing are used to achieve precise three-dimensional cloud mapping, then measurement precision improves, but device complexity and operational complexity increase
Solution Approach 1:
The system performs self-calibration and automatic processing of the complex data from multiple sensors. The microprocessor automatically triangulates cloud positions, determines altitudes, and generates the three-dimensional map without requiring manual intervention for calibration or complex operational procedures. This maintains high measurement precision while simplifying operation.
Solution Approach 2:
The system replaces manual observation and mechanical measurement methods with automated optical and thermal sensing systems. The microprocessor-based automatic processing substitutes for complex manual operations, achieving precise three-dimensional cloud mapping while maintaining ease of operation through automation.
3Reliability
If thermal radiation measurements and panoramic imaging are combined for three-dimensional mapping, then reliability and precision of forecasting improve, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The system merges optical panoramic imaging with thermal radiation measurements in a unified measurement approach. By combining these two different sensing modalities, the system achieves more reliable and precise cloud characterization than either method alone could provide, while the integrated design keeps the overall system complexity manageable.
Solution Approach 2:
The sensor system is designed to perform multiple functions: optical imaging for cloud detection, thermal radiation measurement for temperature and altitude determination, and data integration for three-dimensional mapping. This multi-functionality increases reliability and precision while avoiding the need for separate independent systems.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
Provides reliable and precise three-dimensional cloud mapping, allowing for improved short-term forecasting of photovoltaic electricity production and optimized management of network support tools, reducing costs and environmental impact.
Implementation Method 1
measuring thermal radiation emitted from said sky observation area to determine cloud cover and altitudes of the base and the top of the clouds
Data Source
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AI summary
The invention relates to a system and method for the three-dimensional mapping of the cloudiness of the sky. According to the invention, the following steps are carried out: - acquiring at least one panoramic image of an observation area (3) of the sky of at least 4.6 steradians, - measuring the thermal radiation emitted from said observation area (3) of the sky in order to determine the cloud cover and the altitudes of the base and the top of the clouds in said area, - comparing and reconciling at least the data from said panoramic image, from the determination of said cloud cover and from the altitudes of the base and the top of the clouds in order to obtain a three-dimensional mapping of the cloudiness in said observation area (3) of the sky.