PV Power Tracking Control for CPV Alignment and Light Uniformity
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Solution Overview
Problem
Concentrated photovoltaic systems face inefficiencies due to non-uniform light distribution and tracking errors, which affect power output and reliability, particularly in high-temperature conditions.
Innovation Solution
A photovoltaic system with an electronic module that generates control signals to adjust the tracking mechanism and optical components for maximum power point tracking, optimizing the alignment and focus of solar light on photovoltaic cells to enhance power generation and system reliability.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Power
If concentrated sunlight is directed onto photovoltaic cells to increase power production, then power output is improved, but non-uniform light distribution causes intensity variation that reduces collection efficiency
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies local quality by using multiple photovoltaic cells with individually adjustable positions to create localized optimization zones. Each cell can be independently positioned to receive optimal light intensity, addressing the non-uniform distribution problem by tailoring the light reception characteristics to each specific cell's requirements rather than using a uniform approach for all cells.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements dynamics through the adjustable positioning mechanism that allows real-time modification of cell positions. This dynamic adjustment capability enables the system to adapt to changing light conditions and maintain optimal collection efficiency by continuously optimizing the spatial distribution of light across the photovoltaic cells.
2Power
If tracking accuracy is improved to maintain focused sunlight on solar cells, then power generation is improved, but tracking errors cause misalignment that reduces light intensity on cells
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies feedback through the controller that receives information about light intensity and cell position, then adjusts the positioning of photovoltaic cells accordingly. This closed-loop feedback mechanism ensures that tracking errors are compensated by actively adjusting cell positions to maintain optimal alignment with the light source, thereby preserving power generation efficiency.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements preliminary action by pre-positioning multiple photovoltaic cells at different locations before operation begins. This preliminary arrangement allows the system to have ready-configured positions that can be quickly activated or selected based on tracking requirements, reducing the response time needed to correct tracking errors and maintain optimal power generation.
3Stability of the object's composition
If secondary reflector is added to homogenize light distribution, then uniformity of light pattern is improved, but additional reflections result in light intensity loss
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies segmentation by dividing the light collection function across multiple photovoltaic cells positioned at different locations rather than attempting to homogenize light across a single receiver. This segmentation approach allows each cell to receive optimized light intensity directly, eliminating the need for secondary reflection-based homogenization and the associated energy losses.
4Productivity
If photovoltaic cells are kept at lower temperatures to maintain efficiency, then conversion efficiency is improved, but high solar energy input causes excessive heating that reduces efficiency
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies segmentation by distributing the concentrated solar energy across multiple photovoltaic cells rather than concentrating it on a single receiver. This distribution reduces the thermal load on each individual cell, helping to maintain lower operating temperatures and preserve conversion efficiency despite high overall energy input to the system.
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 solution increases electrical power output and extends the system's reliability by dynamically adjusting the tracking and optical settings based on real-time power generation data, improving energy conversion efficiency and reducing thermal stress on photovoltaic cells.
Implementation Method 1
an optical element (e.g. reflector, Fresnel lens) adapted for concentrating solar light onto the photovoltaic cells
Implementation Method 2
concentrated photovoltaic (CPV) system... concentrated sunlight is directed in order to increase the power production of the system
Data Source
AI summary
A photovoltaic system including a photovoltaic cell, and an electronic module connected to the photovoltaic cell. The electronic module is adapted to produce at least one control signal indicative of electrical power being generated by the photovoltaic cells. A tracking controller is adapted to receive the control signal(s) and based on the control signal(s), the controller is adapted to control a tracking motor for adjusting the system so that electrical power generated by the photovoltaic cells is increased. The photovoltaic system may include an optical element, adapted for concentrating solar light onto the photovoltaic cells. The electronic module preferably performs direct current (DC) to direct current (DC) power conversion and maximum power point tracking by electrical power, current, or voltage at either their inputs or their outputs. Alternatively, the tracking controller is configured to also perform maximum power point tracking by increasing to a local maximum electrical power by varying at least one of (i) current or voltage output from the photovoltaic cell or (ii) current or voltage output from the electronic module.