Systems and methods for split-cell and multi-panel photovoltaic tracking control
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional single-axis solar tracking systems with conventional backtracking algorithms are inefficient for split-cell or multi-panel solar arrays as they result in a high angle of incidence, reducing power generation due to shading avoidance mechanisms.
Innovation Solution
A single-axis solar tracking system that intentionally shades a percentage of panel modules to allow a lower angle of incidence on unshaded modules by determining specific backtracking angles based on sun elevation and ground coverage ratio, using expressions to calculate optimal tracking angles for single-cell and multi-panel arrays.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Object-affected harmful factors
If conventional backtracking algorithms are used to avoid inter-row shading, then inter-row shading is reduced or eliminated, but the angle of incidence of light on photovoltaic modules becomes high, reducing power generation
Solution Approach 1:
The solar array is divided into multiple independently controllable panels or cells (first panel, second panel, third panel, etc.) that can be selectively shaded. This segmentation allows the system to shade only specific portions of the array while keeping other portions active, thereby maintaining power generation from unshaded segments while still avoiding inter-row shading conflicts
Solution Approach 2:
Different portions of the solar array are treated differently - some panels are intentionally shaded while others remain unshaded. This local differentiation allows the system to optimize power generation by maintaining favorable angle of incidence on unshaded panels while using shaded panels to block inter-row shading, rather than applying uniform backtracking to the entire array
2Object-affected harmful factors
If backtracking is performed to avoid inter-row shading, then shading conflicts between rows are eliminated, but the angle of incidence increases, reducing the amount of power generated
Solution Approach 1:
Instead of applying backtracking to the entire solar array, the system applies shading only to specific panels or portions of panels (partial action). This allows the system to achieve sufficient inter-row shading avoidance while minimizing the angle of incidence on the remaining unshaded panels, thereby reducing energy loss compared to full-array backtracking
3Object-affected harmful factors
If conventional backtracking is used, then inter-row shading is avoided, but the system is incompatible or inefficient for split-cell or multi-panel solar arrays
Solution Approach 1:
The system is designed to work with segmented solar arrays (split-cell or multi-panel configurations) by treating each panel or cell as an independently controllable unit. This segmentation enables the system to selectively shade specific panels while keeping others active, making it compatible with and optimized for split-cell and multi-panel array architectures rather than treating them as a single uniform array
Solution Approach 2:
The system dynamically adjusts which panels are shaded and which remain active based on real-time conditions such as sun position, array configuration, and inter-row shading requirements. This dynamic control allows the system to adapt to different split-cell and multi-panel configurations, providing versatility and compatibility across various array types
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
Increases total power generation by optimizing the angle of incidence on unshaded panel modules, enhancing energy output during low sun elevation conditions.
Implementation Method 1
single-axis photovoltaic tracking systems capable of performing backtracking to allow for increased total power generation by intentionally shading a percentage of panel modules, thereby allowing for a lower angle of incidence on unshaded modules
Data Source
AI summary
Split-cell and multi-panel photovoltaic backtracking control systems and methods allow for increased total power generation during low sun elevation conditions by shading a percentage of panel modules, thereby allowing for a lower angle of incidence on unshaded modules. The control systems and methods involve determining a sun elevation angle, a traditional backtracking angle, a split-cell or multi-panel backtracking angle, a single-cell or single-panel relative light transmission (RLT) based on the single-cell or single-panel backtracking angle, and a split-cell or multi-panel RLT based on the split-cell or multi-panel backtracking angle. If twice the single-cell or single-panel RLT is greater than the split-cell or multi-panel RLT, the split-cell or multi-panel backtracking angle is used; otherwise, the single-cell or single-panel backtracking angle is used. The control systems and methods may further involve determining a diffuse fraction index (DFI) and, if the DFI is greater than a DFI limit, using a DFI tracking angle.