Solar Sensor X-Shaped Mask for Incident Angle Detection
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing solar sensors face challenges in improving their viewing angle and maintaining accurate light detection, which is crucial for efficient solar panel operation and satellite orientation in aerospace applications.
Innovation Solution
A device and method for detecting a light irradiating angle, integrating a four-quadrant solar sensor and a calibration sensor, which reduces module volume, increases precision, and calibrates noise based on environmental parameters using a special algorithm.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If a conventional solar sensor is used, then the module volume is larger, but the precision and viewing angle are limited
Solution Approach 1:
The solar sensor is divided into four distinct sensing areas (first, second, third, and fourth sensing areas) that are arranged in a specific pattern. Each area independently detects light intensity, and the processor combines these segmented measurements to calculate precise incident angle information, thereby improving measurement precision while maintaining a compact structure.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces a mask with an X-shaped light transmitting portion that creates X-axis and Y-axis light rays intersecting on the sensing unit. This dimensional arrangement allows the sensor to detect light incident angles in multiple dimensions simultaneously, enhancing viewing angle and precision without proportionally increasing volume.
2Measurement precision
If environmental noise is not calibrated, then the device is simpler, but the accuracy of light sensing decreases
Solution Approach 1:
A calibration sensor is introduced as an intermediary component adjacent to the solar sensor. This calibration sensor detects environmental noise and light conditions, and the processor uses this calibration data to compensate for noise in the main solar sensor's measurements, thereby improving light sensing accuracy without significantly increasing overall device complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The system implements a feedback mechanism where the calibration sensor continuously monitors environmental conditions and feeds this information to the processor. The processor then adjusts and calibrates the solar sensor's readings in real-time based on the calibration data, ensuring accurate light detection despite environmental variations.
3Adaptability or versatility
If a simple sensing unit is used, then the device is easier to manufacture, but the viewing angle is limited
Solution Approach 1:
The four sensing areas are arranged in an asymmetric pattern on the sensing unit, with each area positioned to optimize detection of light rays from different incident angles. The mask's X-shaped transmitting portion also creates an asymmetric light distribution pattern. This asymmetric design expands the effective viewing angle while maintaining a relatively simple manufacturing process.
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 enhances the accuracy and precision of light detection, improves the viewing angle of solar sensors, and ensures reliable operation in varying environmental conditions.
Implementation Method 1
The first sensing area, the second sensing area, the third sensing area, and the fourth sensing area are respectively configured to generate a first sensing signal, a second sensing signal, a third sensing signal, and a fourth sensing signal based on the intensity of the light ray
Data Source
AI summary
A device and a method for detecting a light irradiating angle are disclosed. The device, used to detect the incident direction of a light ray, includes a solar sensor and a processor. The sensing unit of the solar sensor has sensing areas. The sensing areas correspondingly generate sensing signals based on the intensity of the light ray. A mask covers the sensing unit and has an X-shaped light transmitting portion. The light ray transmits the X-shaped light transmitting portion to form an X-axis light ray and a Y-axis light ray. The X-axis light ray intersects the Y-axis light ray. The X-axis light ray and the Y-axis light ray fall on the sensing area. The processor, coupled to the sensing unit, receives the sensing signals and determines information of the incident direction according to the sensing signals.