CSP Mirror Alignment Using Fringe Reflection Slope Measurement
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current Concentrating Solar Power (CSP) systems face performance inefficiencies due to errors in mirror slope and alignment, which affect power generation and require improved characterization and alignment techniques for optimization.
Innovation Solution
A solar optimization system that combines characterization and alignment tools using an electronic boresight approach, capable of real-time data capture and analysis, to accurately determine mirror geometry and slope errors, and adjust mirrors for optimal performance.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If traditional mirror characterization and alignment techniques are used, then system performance can be maintained, but measurement precision and alignment accuracy are insufficient due to slope errors
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a camera as an intermediary device to capture fringe patterns reflected from the mirror surface. This intermediary enables precise measurement of mirror slope and geometry by analyzing the reflected light patterns, thereby improving measurement precision without compromising system reliability
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces traditional mechanical alignment tools and methods with an optical-based fringe analysis system. By using light interference patterns captured by a camera and processed through computational algorithms, the system achieves higher measurement precision while maintaining or improving reliability through non-contact measurement
2Productivity
If real-time data capture and analysis is implemented, then alignment speed and productivity improve, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent creates a multi-functional system where a single integrated apparatus performs both mirror characterization (measuring slope and geometry) and alignment functions. The camera captures fringe patterns that provide multiple measurement dimensions simultaneously, enabling real-time data capture for both characterization and alignment without requiring separate complex systems
Solution Approach 2:
The patent uses optical fringe patterns as information copies of the mirror surface geometry. By capturing and analyzing these light pattern copies, the system can determine mirror slope and alignment parameters without physically touching or displacing the mirror, enabling rapid real-time analysis while keeping the hardware configuration relatively simple
3Manufacturing precision
If accurate mirror characterization is performed, then manufacturing precision improves, but loss of time occurs during measurement and analysis
Solution Approach 1:
The patent performs preliminary characterization of mirror slope and geometry by capturing fringe patterns before final alignment adjustments. This preliminary action provides advance information about mirror deviations, allowing operators to make informed adjustments and achieve precise alignment faster, thereby reducing overall measurement and adjustment time
Solution Approach 2:
The patent enables continuous measurement and analysis by maintaining the fringe pattern capture system in an active state throughout the alignment process. Rather than performing discrete, time-consuming measurements, the system continuously monitors and analyzes mirror parameters, providing real-time feedback that maintains manufacturing precision while minimizing time loss
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
The system enhances CSP system performance by providing rapid, accurate characterization and alignment, reducing errors and improving power generation efficiency through real-time data processing and adjustable configurations.
Implementation Method 1
displaying light patterns for reflection by the mirror and receiving a reflection of the light patterns from the mirror
Data Source
AI summary
A system and method for optimizing at least one mirror of at least one CSP system is provided. The system has a screen for displaying light patterns for reflection by the mirror, a camera for receiving a reflection of the light patterns from the mirror, and a solar characterization tool. The solar characterization tool has a characterizing unit for determining at least one mirror parameter of the mirror based on an initial position of the camera and the screen, and a refinement unit for refining the determined parameter(s) based on an adjusted position of the camera and screen whereby the mirror is characterized. The system may also be provided with a solar alignment tool for comparing at least one mirror parameter of the mirror to a design geometry whereby an alignment error is defined, and at least one alignment unit for adjusting the mirror to reduce the alignment error.