Obstacle Height Estimation from Aerial Shadows
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current tools for estimating solar production from photovoltaic panels do not accurately account for the impact of shading obstacles, often relying on empirical estimates or unavailable information, leading to inaccuracies in evaluating the profitability of installations.
Innovation Solution
A method that uses a computer-based approach to characterize a target zone for photovoltaic panel installation by detecting shadows, determining the height of obstacles, and evaluating their impact on solar energy reception over time, incorporating bird's eye view images, sun position determination, and optimization of photovoltaic module placement.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If conventional tools are used to estimate solar production, then the estimation process is simple and quick, but the accuracy of obstacle shading impact assessment deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent uses aerial images (photographs or videos) to create a visual copy of the target zone and obstacles, allowing accurate measurement of obstacle dimensions and shadow patterns without physical measurement tools. This copying approach enables precise characterization while keeping the method accessible and relatively simple to implement
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces an intermediary characterization tool that processes aerial images to extract obstacle parameters (dimensions, position, orientation) and calculates shadow patterns. This intermediary system bridges the gap between simple image capture and accurate solar production estimation, improving precision without requiring direct complex measurement equipment at the installation site
2Reliability
If empirical estimates of obstacle dimensions are used, then the characterization process is faster, but the reliability of solar production evaluation deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent performs preliminary characterization of obstacles by analyzing aerial images before photovoltaic installation. This advance measurement of obstacle dimensions, position, and shadow patterns provides reliable data for solar production evaluation, eliminating the need for time-consuming on-site measurements later while ensuring accurate reliability
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces physical measurement methods (tape measures, laser rangefinders, on-site surveys) with optical measurement using aerial images. This substitution eliminates the need for manual obstacle characterization in the field, reducing time loss while maintaining or improving reliability through consistent remote measurement
3Productivity
If detailed characterization of the target zone is performed, then the optimization of photovoltaic module placement is improved, but the complexity of the characterization process increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent creates a universal characterization method that works for various obstacle types (trees, buildings, other structures) and different target zone configurations. The same aerial image analysis process extracts all necessary parameters (obstacle dimensions, position, orientation, shadow patterns) applicable to any photovoltaic installation scenario, improving productivity without requiring multiple specialized tools for different situations
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
This method provides a precise characterization of the target zone, improving the accuracy of solar energy estimation and optimizing photovoltaic module placement, thereby enhancing the profitability and performance of photovoltaic panel installations.
Implementation Method 1
the detection, on the image, of a shadow cast on the target zone, the shadow cast coming from an obstacle
Implementation Method 2
the determination of the height of the obstacle on the basis of the main dimension determined for the shadow cast and the determined position of the sun
Data Source
AI summary
The present invention relates to a method for characterizing a zone of land, referred to as the target zone, intended for the installation of photovoltaic panels, the method comprising:receiving a bird's eye image of a target zone,detecting, in the image, a shadow cast over the target zone originating from an obstacle,determining a dimension, referred to as the main dimension, of the detected cast shadow,determining the position of the sun during the acquisition of the image on the basis of characteristics relating to the image,determining the height of the obstacle on the basis of the main dimension and the determined position of the sun, andcharacterizing the target zone on the basis of the height determined for the obstacle.