Solar Module Shadow Forecasting and Orientation Control
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Solution Overview
Problem
Solar power plants face variability in output due to changing atmospheric conditions, making it challenging to predict and stabilize power supply, which is crucial for maintaining stable grid conditions.
Innovation Solution
A system that uses irradiance data from sensors to predict shadow coverage on solar modules, allowing for accurate forecasting of power output and adjustment of solar module orientation and energy storage to maintain desired grid conditions.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Power
If solar power plants rely on atmospheric conditions for power generation, then power generation capacity is improved, but predictability of power supply deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The system performs preliminary actions by continuously monitoring irradiance data and predicting future shadow coverage on solar modules. This allows the system to forecast power output variations before they occur, enabling grid operators to take preventive measures to maintain stable power supply despite atmospheric condition changes.
Solution Approach 2:
The system implements feedback by continuously measuring actual irradiance data from sensors and comparing it with predicted values. This feedback loop allows the system to refine its predictions and adjust forecasts, improving the reliability of power supply predictions while maintaining high power generation capacity.
2Device complexity
If solar modules are fixed in orientation, then device complexity is reduced, but adaptability to changing atmospheric conditions deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The system applies dynamics by enabling solar modules to change their orientation dynamically in response to predicted shadow coverage. When shadows are forecasted, the system adjusts module angles to optimize power generation, allowing the system to adapt to changing atmospheric conditions without requiring complex manual reconfiguration.
Solution Approach 2:
The system implements self-service by automatically monitoring irradiance data, predicting shadow coverage, and adjusting solar module orientation without human intervention. This autonomous operation maintains adaptability to atmospheric conditions while keeping the control system relatively simple.
Data Source
AI summary
A method may include determining a position and movement of a shadow on a plurality of solar modules of a solar power plant using an analysis of irradiance data from sensors disposed proximate the plurality of solar modules. The method may include predicting future power output for the plurality of solar panels based on the movement of the shadow over the plurality of solar modules and modifying a power output of the solar power plant based on the predicted future power output.