PV Tracker Angle Control Using I-V Curves Under Diffuse Irradiance
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current tracking systems for photovoltaic (PV) power plants lack the ability to dynamically optimize orientation angles to maximize power output under varying weather conditions and complex sky irradiance patterns, particularly for bifacial PV systems which collect light from both sides.
Innovation Solution
A system comprising a current-voltage (I-V) measurement device and a controller that adjusts the tracking system's orientation using an actuator, analyzing I-V data to determine the optimal orientation for maximizing power output by considering factors like solar position, shading, and diffuse irradiance.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If tracking systems use fixed orientation angles, then device complexity is reduced, but power output is not maximized under varying weather conditions
Solution Approach 1:
The tracking system dynamically adjusts orientation angles based on real-time I-V measurements and environmental conditions. The system transitions from fixed static angles to dynamic adaptive angles, allowing continuous optimization of power output in response to changing weather patterns, cloud cover, and irradiance conditions.
Solution Approach 2:
The system implements feedback control by measuring I-V characteristics at different orientation angles and using this data to determine the optimal angle. The controller continuously monitors power output and adjusts the tracking system orientation based on measured performance, creating a closed-loop control system that maximizes energy capture.
2Measurement precision
If I-V measurements are taken at multiple orientation angles, then optimal orientation determination is improved, but measurement time increases
Solution Approach 1:
The system performs I-V measurements at a limited set of discrete orientation angles rather than continuously scanning all possible angles. By selecting key representative angles (e.g., 0°, 15°, 30°, 45°), the system achieves sufficient measurement precision to identify optimal orientation without the time cost of exhaustive measurements across the entire angular range.
Solution Approach 2:
The system pre-determines a set of candidate orientation angles based on expected environmental conditions and solar position. Rather than performing exhaustive measurements, the controller selects from predetermined angle options, reducing measurement time while maintaining adequate precision for practical optimization.
3Productivity
If tracking systems account for diffuse irradiance and shading, then power output optimization is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The system uses its own I-V measurements to automatically characterize diffuse irradiance and shading conditions without requiring external sensors or complex environmental monitoring equipment. By measuring electrical characteristics at different orientations, the system self-determines the impact of diffuse light and shading, eliminating the need for separate sensing systems.
Solution Approach 2:
The I-V measurement system serves multiple functions: it characterizes module performance, determines optimal orientation, and simultaneously provides information about diffuse irradiance and shading conditions. This multi-functionality allows the system to account for complex environmental factors without adding dedicated sensors or increasing overall system complexity.
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 effectively optimizes the orientation of PV modules to enhance energy production by accounting for changing solar conditions and diffuse light, leading to improved power output even under cloudy conditions and varying sky irradiance patterns.
Implementation Method 1
PV modules, also known as solar panels, are used to produce energy in solar energy installations
Implementation Method 2
a current-voltage (I-V) measurement device configured to measure I-V data of at least one module
Data Source
AI summary
In one respect, disclosed is a system for optimizing the orientation of a tracking system for PV modules, comprising: a current-voltage (I-V) measurement device configured to measure I-V data of at least one module within or disposed nearby a PV module string; and a controller configured to vary said orientation of said tracking system by means of an actuator while acquiring I-V curve data from said I-V measurement device, analyze said I-V data and therefrom determine an optimal orientation, and set said actuator to achieve said optimal orientation. In another respect, disclosed is a method for optimizing the orientation of a tracking system for PV modules, comprising: varying an orientation of said tracking system by means of an actuator, acquiring I-V data from a PV module within or nearby a PV module string on said tracking system using an I-V measurement device, analyzing said I-V data versus said orientation to determine an optimal orientation, and controlling said actuator to achieve said optimal orientation.