Solar Tracker Angle Optimization for Module Temperature Control
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current methods for optimizing photovoltaic (PV) power production rely on trial and error and neglect the variable operating temperature of solar panels, which affects energy generation, and lack accurate estimation of power output under real conditions.
Innovation Solution
A method that positions solar trackers to minimize module temperature by considering environmental factors like air temperature, wind speed, and topography, using predictive models to optimize power conversion efficiency without requiring extensive data acquisition or learning periods.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If solar trackers are positioned to maximize radiation received in the PV plane, then power production increases, but module temperature increases and conversion efficiency decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent changes the optimization parameter from solely maximizing radiation received to a composite parameter that balances radiation received with module temperature control. The system calculates optimal tracker angles by evaluating both the irradiation power and the expected module temperature, selecting the angle that maximizes the net power production considering temperature-dependent efficiency losses.
Solution Approach 2:
The system uses real-time measurements of environmental conditions (air temperature, wind speed, irradiation) to dynamically adjust tracker positioning. By continuously monitoring these parameters and comparing actual power production with predicted performance, the system adapts the tracker angle to maintain optimal operating temperature while maximizing energy capture.
2Productivity
If trial and error methods are used to determine optimum operating point, then optimization can be achieved, but time consumption and complexity increase
Solution Approach 1:
The system performs preliminary calculations of the optimal tracker angle based on current environmental conditions before actual operation begins. By pre-computing the optimal position using measured air temperature, wind speed, and irradiation data, the system eliminates the need for time-consuming trial and error adjustments during operation, directly positioning the tracker at the optimal angle.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces mechanical trial-and-error adjustment methods with a computational model that calculates the optimal operating point. Instead of physically testing different tracker angles to determine which produces maximum power, the system uses environmental measurements and predictive algorithms to directly identify the optimal position, significantly reducing the time required.
3Reliability
If environmental variables like air temperature and wind speed are considered, then conversion efficiency improves, but measurement and control complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The system uses a multi-functional approach where environmental sensors serve multiple purposes: air temperature measurements are used both for comfort monitoring and for calculating module operating temperature; wind speed measurements are used both for structural safety assessments and for estimating convective cooling effects on module temperature. This universal use of measurements reduces the need for separate specialized sensors and control mechanisms.
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
This approach enhances electrical power production by reducing module temperature, improving conversion efficiency, and enabling precise fault identification by comparing estimated and actual power output, thus overcoming limitations of existing methods.
Implementation Method 1
photovoltaic (PV) electricity by reducing the working temperature of PV modules
Implementation Method 2
considering the power also received as radiation, the module temperature is lower
Data Source
Figure 1
Figure 2a~2b
Figure 3a~3b
AI summary
The object of invention allows to position the tracker at angles that promote the cooling of the modules and therefore, decrease their operating temperature, without reducing the total energy produced thus optimizing power production of photovoltaic (PV) electricity by reducing the working temperature of PV modules of a solar tracker. The object of invention does not only solve the problems known in the art, but also provides an optimization of the electrical output of the system for particular conditions of instantaneous air temperature and wind speed thus improving electrical power generation ratios with respect to those known current techniques taking into account incident power in the PV plane, or in some cases the output power without considering the action of changes in wind speed or air temperature.