PV Module Orientation Control for Output Variability Management

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Solution Overview

Problem

Large photovoltaic systems face challenges in managing short-term variability of solar energy output due to factors like cloud cover and technological limitations, leading to a lack of control over electrical output, which can strain the electrical grid and require costly energy storage solutions.

Innovation Solution

Implementing a system with sensors and orientation control mechanisms to adjust the angle of photovoltaic modules, reducing their solar energy collection capability to match the power conditioner's capacity, and using advanced tracking systems with weather monitoring and prediction centers to optimize output and reduce variability.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Productivity

If the size of photovoltaic systems is increased to meet growing energy demands, then energy production capacity is improved, but control over short-term output variability deteriorates

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveenergy production capacityVSAvoidcontrol over output variability

Core Design Contradiction:

ProductivityVSReliability

Solution Approach 1:

The patent implements dynamic control of photovoltaic module orientation using tracking systems that can adjust angles in real-time. This allows the system to adapt its solar energy collection capability dynamically, reducing output variability while maintaining high production capacity. The dynamic adjustment of module orientation enables the system to respond to changing weather conditions and grid requirements.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #15Dynamics

2Reliability

If energy storage components are added to manage peak output, then output control is improved, but system cost and complexity increase

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveoutput controlVSAvoidsystem complexity

Core Design Contradiction:

ReliabilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent applies preliminary action by adjusting the orientation of photovoltaic modules in advance to anticipate and prevent peak output conditions. The system uses weather monitoring and prediction to proactively modify module orientation before peak production occurs, thereby controlling output variability without requiring energy storage components or complex power management systems.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #10Preliminary action

3Productivity

If photovoltaic modules are oriented for maximum output, then energy production is improved, but the ability to manage output variability deteriorates

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveenergy productionVSAvoidoutput management flexibility

Core Design Contradiction:

ProductivityVSAdaptability or versatility

Solution Approach 1:

Inventive Principle:

Principle #15Dynamics

Solution Approach 2:

The patent changes the orientation parameter of photovoltaic modules from fixed maximum-output positioning to variable positioning based on weather conditions and grid needs. By modifying the orientation angle parameter dynamically, the system achieves both high energy production and effective output variability management, demonstrating adaptability without sacrificing productivity.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #35Parameter changes

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 provides granular control over photovoltaic system output, reduces the strain on the electrical grid, and is cost-effective by allowing for precise management of energy production, minimizing the need for expensive storage solutions and enhancing reliability.

Implementation Method 1

a plurality of photovoltaic modules configured to receive and convert solar energy

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectPhotovoltaic effect: Photovoltaic Effect

Data Source

PatentUS8334489B2Photovoltaic system with managed output and method of managing variability of output from a photovoltaic system

Publication Date: 2012.12.18 NEXTPOWER LLC

AI summary

Photovoltaic systems with managed output and methods for managing variability of output from photovoltaic systems are described. A system includes a plurality of photovoltaic modules configured to receive and convert solar energy. The system also includes a sensor configured to determine an orientation for each of the plurality of photovoltaic modules, the orientations based on a maximum output from the photovoltaic system. The system also includes an orientation system configured to alter the orientation of one or more of the plurality of photovoltaic modules to provide a reduced output from the photovoltaic system, the reduced output less than the maximum output.