Solar Tracker Layout Optimization on Undulating PV Terrain
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Solution Overview
Problem
Utility-scale photovoltaic power plants with single-axis trackers face challenges in optimizing site grading and energy yield due to complex terrain topography and geometric constraints, which are computationally intense and impractical to solve manually.
Innovation Solution
A cost-optimization device employing a set of algorithms to find the most cost-effective site grading and energy yield optimization for utility-scale photovoltaic power plants. The device consists of three computing units: an objective-state unit for cost-optimizing site grading, an optimum-feasible unit for modifying the solution to satisfy geometric constraints, and a grading unit for finalizing the solution to meet non-geometric constraints.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Manufacturing precision
If terrain grading is performed to smooth topographic irregularities, then the alignment of tracker components is improved, but the construction cost and earthwork volume increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies local quality by performing grading only in specific locations where terrain irregularities affect tracker alignment, rather than uniformly grading the entire site. The system identifies individual piles requiring adjustment and targets earthwork to those specific locations, reducing overall earthwork volume while maintaining necessary alignment precision.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent employs preliminary action by using computational algorithms to predict and plan the optimal grading strategy before construction begins. The system calculates the precise amount and location of earthwork needed to achieve target pile elevations, allowing stakeholders to evaluate cost-benefit tradeoffs in advance and avoid unnecessary grading operations.
2Manufacturing precision
If pile length is increased to absorb terrain irregularities, then the alignment of tracker components is improved, but the material cost increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies local quality by adjusting pile lengths individually based on local terrain conditions at each pile location, rather than using uniform pile lengths across the entire site. The computational system evaluates the specific elevation requirements for each pile and specifies precise length variations only where terrain irregularities exist, minimizing overall steel material consumption while maintaining alignment precision.
3Measurement precision
If computational algorithms are used to optimize the solution, then the optimization accuracy is improved, but the computational time and complexity increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies segmentation by dividing the large-scale optimization problem into smaller, more manageable sub-problems. The computational system processes the site in segments or zones, calculating optimal grading and pile length solutions for each segment independently or in a hierarchical manner, thereby reducing overall computational time and complexity while maintaining optimization accuracy.
Data Source
AI summary
This invention is embodied in an energy yield optimization device that can be used to optimize energy yields for a utility-scale photovoltaic power plant. More specifically, this solution is directed to utility-scale photovoltaic power plants that have undulating (non-planar) topography. Because of the undulating topography, the rotating axles of the solar trackers will not necessarily be horizontal and would be expected to be different for each independent rotating axle in the field. The preferred solution claimed herein deploys a marching algorithm to find the preferred optimum solution.