PV Array Image Mapping for Partial Shading Power Loss
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing methods for estimating power loss in photovoltaic (PV) arrays due to partial shading or soiling do not accurately account for the physical distribution of light-blocking materials, leading to inaccurate economic calculations and system optimization.
Innovation Solution
The proposed solution involves creating a time-series of images for each PV module, mapping light-blocking material coverage, modeling power output, quantifying power loss, and using this data to determine influential module or array parameters, thereby providing a more accurate estimation of power loss.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If traditional percent coverage methods are used to estimate power loss, then the estimation process is simple, but the accuracy of power loss estimation deteriorates because physical distribution of light-blocking material is not accounted for
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the PV array into individual modules and further into cell strings, analyzing light-blocking material distribution at each segment level. This segmentation enables accurate power loss estimation by considering the specific physical distribution of LBM on each module rather than using a single percent coverage value for the entire array.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces an image processing system as an intermediary tool that captures images of the PV array, identifies light-blocking material locations, and translates visual information into quantitative power loss estimates. This intermediary system bridges the gap between simple visual inspection and accurate electrical performance prediction.
2Measurement precision
If detailed image processing and mapping of light-blocking material is performed, then power loss estimation accuracy improves, but the complexity of the detection and measurement process increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent creates a visual copy of the PV array surface through imaging, which allows for non-contact, non-invasive detection of light-blocking material. The image processing system generates a digital representation of the array surface, enabling accurate identification and mapping of LBM without physically interacting with the modules.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces manual inspection and physical measurement methods with an automated image processing system. This substitution eliminates the need for complex manual detection procedures while achieving higher measurement precision through algorithmic analysis of captured images.
3Reliability
If system design parameters are considered in power loss estimation, then the comprehensiveness of performance prediction improves, but the complexity of the modeling process increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent creates a multi-functional modeling system that simultaneously considers system design parameters, operational conditions, and light-blocking material distribution to provide comprehensive power loss estimation. This universal approach integrates multiple factors into a single unified model that can predict performance under various conditions.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent incorporates multiple parameters including system design specifications, operational conditions, and LBM distribution characteristics into the power loss model. By considering changes in these parameters and their interactions, the model achieves higher reliability in performance prediction while systematically managing the complexity through structured parameter integration.
Data Source
AI summary
Arrays of photovoltaic modules produce power as a result of incident solar radiation. The amount of radiation reaching a solar cell can be decreased due to light-blocking matter adhering to the module surface. The light-blocking or soiling matter can be snow, dirt, or other particulates such as pollen or excrement, and can be detected on the module surface using visible light photography. We have developed an automated image processing routine to estimate the power loss on a photovoltaic array due to partial surface shading, soiling or coverage from time-series visible light photographs. This tool can inform the design of PV systems optimized for particular operating environments, resulting in more efficient PV systems, can be used to inform the development of new technologies, such as anti-soiling coatings, and can help validate the accuracy of PV performance models in locations that see high rates of soiling.