Method for controlling the orientation of a solar module with two photoactive faces
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing solar tracker systems using direct orientation methods suffer yield deficits under cloudy conditions due to the dispersion of direct solar radiation and do not optimize energy production from albedo radiation on dual-face photovoltaic devices.
Innovation Solution
A method for controlling the orientation of solar modules that accounts for both direct and diffuse solar radiation, as well as albedo radiation, by measuring and forecasting luminance distributions to determine an optimum orientation, incorporating energy production considerations and mechanical constraints.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If direct orientation control is used based on astronomical calculation, then the solar tracker can follow the Sun's position, but energy yield decreases under cloudy conditions due to diffuse radiation dispersion
Solution Approach 1:
The system uses luminance sensors to continuously measure the actual distribution of incident and reflected luminance, providing feedback to the control unit. This feedback loop allows the system to detect changes in radiation patterns and adjust the solar module orientation accordingly, resolving the contradiction between maintaining direct Sun-tracking and adapting to cloudy conditions with diffuse radiation
Solution Approach 2:
The system autonomously determines the optimum orientation by processing luminance distribution data itself, without requiring external intervention or complex astronomical calculations. The control unit automatically identifies the orientation that maximizes energy production from both direct and diffuse radiation, as well as albedo radiation on the rear face
2Use of energy by moving object
If the solar tracker is oriented for direct Sun following, then the upper face receives maximum direct radiation, but the lower face does not optimize albedo radiation capture
Solution Approach 1:
The solar tracker system serves multiple functions simultaneously: it optimizes for direct radiation on the front face, diffuse radiation from the sky, and albedo radiation on the rear face. The control unit integrates luminance measurements from both upper and lower sensors to determine a single optimum orientation that maximizes total energy production across all radiation types, making the system universally adaptive to different radiation conditions
3Productivity
If frequent orientation adjustments are made to follow Sun position in real-time, then direct radiation tracking is optimized, but mechanical wear and energy consumption increase
Solution Approach 1:
The system performs preliminary measurements of luminance distribution at multiple elevation angles before determining the optimum orientation. By anticipating the optimal position through advance measurement and calculation, the system avoids continuous small adjustments and only moves to orientations that provide genuine energy benefits, reducing mechanical wear and energy consumption
Solution Approach 2:
The system dynamically adapts its adjustment frequency and magnitude based on actual luminance distribution measurements rather than following a fixed real-time tracking schedule. The control unit determines when orientation changes are truly beneficial, making the adjustment behavior dynamic and condition-dependent rather than rigid and continuous
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 enhances energy production by optimizing the orientation of solar modules under varying weather conditions, reducing energy losses and mechanical strain, while anticipating changes in cloud coverage for proactive adjustments.
Implementation Method 1
a photovoltaic device supported by the solar tracker and having a photoactive upper face facing the sky and provided with photovoltaic cells
Implementation Method 2
the lower face benefits from the solar radiation reflected by the ground, generally called albedo radiation
Data Source
AI summary
A method for controlling the orientation of a solar module including a single-axis solar tracker orientable about an axis of rotation, and a photovoltaic device supported by said tracker and having upper and lower photoactive faces, including: measurement of a distribution of the solar luminance called incident luminance originating from the incident solar radiation coming from the sky to reach the upper face, said distribution being established according to several elevation angles; measurement of a distribution of the solar luminance called reflected luminance originating from the albedo solar radiation corresponding to the reflection of the solar radiation on the ground to reach the lower face, said distribution being established according to several elevation angles; determination of an optimum orientation considering the measurements of said distributions of the incident and reflected solar luminance; servo-control of the orientation of the module on said optimum orientation.