Radiometer for Circumsolar Profiles Using Rotating Shadowband
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current solar power generation plants face economic losses due to overestimation of annual yields, as traditional radiation measurement methods are expensive, labor-intensive, and incapable of accurately measuring angular distribution in the circumsolar region, which affects the optical design and performance of concentrating solar power systems.
Innovation Solution
A low-cost, automated radiometer system that measures circumsolar radiation profiles using a rotating shadowband or occulting device, capable of determining sunshape parameters and circumsolar ratios, allowing for accurate optical modeling and improved solar resource assessment.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If traditional solar radiation measurement methods (pyrheliometers) are used, then solar resource assessment can be performed, but the measurement process becomes expensive and labor intensive
Solution Approach 1:
The measurement process is segmented into multiple discrete angular positions around the solar disk. The radiometer takes measurements at specific angular intervals (e.g., every 0.1 degrees) to build up the complete circumsolar profile, breaking down the complex continuous measurement into manageable discrete steps
Solution Approach 2:
The radiometer system incorporates dynamic components including a motorized rotating platform that changes the angular position of the detector relative to the solar disk. This dynamic positioning allows the system to scan through different angular positions and capture the complete circumsolar radiation distribution
2Measurement precision
If traditional measurement instruments are used, then solar radiation can be measured, but angular distribution in the circumsolar region cannot be accurately measured
Solution Approach 1:
The measurement capability is extended from one-dimensional (total solar radiation) to two-dimensional (angular distribution around the solar disk). The radiometer measures radiation intensity as a function of angular position, creating a spatial map of the circumsolar region that reveals angular distribution patterns
Solution Approach 2:
A collimating lens or aperture is introduced as an intermediary optical element between the solar disk and the detector. This intermediary component defines the angular acceptance of the detector and enables precise angular resolution by limiting the field of view to specific angular ranges
3Reliability
If high-resolution long-term solar radiation measurements are obtained, then better estimates of annual yields can be made, but the process becomes expensive and labor intensive
Solution Approach 1:
The radiometer system is designed for autonomous operation with automated motor control that positions the detector at predetermined angular intervals. The system self-regulates the measurement process, capturing complete circumsolar profiles without requiring manual intervention at each angular position, thereby improving productivity while maintaining high-resolution data quality
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
Enables precise measurement of solar radiation distribution, reducing overestimation errors and improving the economic and thermodynamic performance of solar power generation systems by providing real-time data for better design and operation of CSP plants.
Implementation Method 1
a radiometer is provided that comprises an opaque shroud (e.g., an ellipsoidal shroud) having an opening for admitting light (e.g., a slit)
Data Source
AI summary
The invention in some aspects relates to radiometers and related methods of use. In some aspects of the invention, methods are provided for determining a circumsolar profiles at external locations of interest, e.g., at a solar power generation system installation site.