CPV Lens Plate Alignment Device and Method
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current concentrating photovoltaic (CPV) systems face challenges in manufacturing efficiency, durability, and integration of additional components, with existing methods lacking cost-effectiveness and reliability in production and quality assurance processes.
Innovation Solution
A test device and method utilizing a first light source with an optical system to simulate solar radiation and a measuring device for output signal measurement, along with adjustable lens plates and quadrant sensors, enable precise alignment and testing of CPV modules for optimal performance and long-term stability.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of manufacture
If a single sealing compound is used in the frame, then the manufacturing process is simple, but the integration of additional components is difficult and the durability is compromised
Solution Approach 1:
The sealing compound is divided into two distinct segments: a first sealing compound and a second sealing compound. Each segment serves specific functions - the first provides structural sealing while the second accommodates additional components and provides environmental sealing. This segmentation allows the frame to integrate multiple components without compromising manufacturing simplicity.
Solution Approach 2:
The frame structure with dual sealing compounds achieves multi-functionality by simultaneously providing structural support, environmental sealing, and component integration capabilities. The first sealing compound ensures basic sealing while the second sealing compound enables flexible integration of additional components such as sensors or electronics, making the frame universally adaptable to various CPV module configurations.
2Productivity
If conventional testing methods are used, then the testing process is simple, but the alignment precision and performance optimization are insufficient
Solution Approach 1:
The testing device incorporates a feedback mechanism where the measured output signal from the CPV module is used to adjust and optimize the lens plate alignment. The system continuously monitors the electrical output and provides feedback to the adjustment mechanism, enabling iterative optimization of the alignment precision until maximum performance is achieved.
Solution Approach 2:
The invention replaces simple mechanical alignment methods with an integrated testing and adjustment system that combines optical simulation, electrical measurement, and automated adjustment. This substitution of mechanical systems with a more sophisticated measurement and control system enables precise alignment optimization while maintaining testing efficiency.
3Device complexity
If manual adjustment methods are used, then the equipment complexity is low, but the alignment accuracy and long-term stability are insufficient
Solution Approach 1:
The adjustment device performs preliminary alignment actions during the manufacturing process, establishing precise lens plate positioning before the module enters service. By performing the alignment adjustment in advance during production rather than requiring manual field adjustment, the system ensures optimal alignment is achieved initially, contributing to long-term stability and reliability.
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 approach allows for the cost-effective, reliable, and precise manufacturing of CPV modules with enhanced long-term stability by ensuring accurate alignment and efficient testing, improving the overall performance and reliability of concentrator modules.
Implementation Method 1
a first light source (4) for generating a light beam (6) simulating solar radiation
Implementation Method 2
an optical system (8) for projecting the light beams (6) emanating from the first light source (4) with a divergence of the individual light beams of below 2° and for directing this light beam (6) onto a light entry surface of the PV concentrator module
Implementation Method 3
PV stands for Photovoltaic
Implementation Method 4
The heart of such systems are the high-performance solar cells
Data Source
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AI summary
The invention relates to a device and a method for optimally adjusting the lens plate in a CPV module which consists of a plurality of CPV sensors and a plurality of lenses mounted over the sensors at a distance from the focal length of said sensors in a container, having the following features: a) a sensor support plate (1) with a plurality of CPV sensors (5), b) a lens plate (2) with a number of lenses, said number corresponding to the number of CPV sensors, c) a fixed lens plate (3) mounted parallel to the position of the lens plate (2), d) a number of sensors which are oriented parallel to the lens plate (3), said number corresponding to the number of CPV sensors, e) two devices (12, 13) for adjusting the lens plate (2) in two horizontal directions, and f) a control device (9) for evaluating output signals, said control device (9) controlling the two devices (12, 13) dependent on characteristics of the output signals.