Sun Position Tracking via Black Sun Effect Image Processing
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional sun position tracking methods are either expensive or inaccurate, requiring multiple MEMS sensors and complex algorithms, and often necessitate manual adjustment based on season and time, which complicates the tracking process and increases costs.
Innovation Solution
A sun position tracking method using a black sun effect of an image sensor, which captures images with multiple cameras to estimate the center point of the sun, extracts solar vectors, transforms them into reference coordinates, and fuses the results to accurately track the sun's position without the need for expensive MEMS sensors or complex algorithms, utilizing a processor to process the images and remove noise with an extended Kalman filter.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If conventional sun position tracking methods using MEMS sensors are employed, then measurement precision is improved, but device complexity and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent uses a camera to capture images of the sun and processes these images to determine sun position, replacing the need for expensive MEMS sensors. The image processing creates a digital representation (copy) of the sun's position that can be analyzed computationally, achieving accurate tracking through software rather than complex hardware.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces the mechanical MEMS sensor system with an optical-imaging-based system. Instead of using micro-electromechanical sensors to detect sun position directly, the system uses a camera to capture visual information and processes images to determine position, substituting a simpler optical-mechanical system for a complex mechanical sensing system.
2Reliability
If multiple MEMS sensors are used to track sun position, then reliability is improved, but cost increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple functions into a single camera system. Instead of using multiple separate MEMS sensors to achieve reliable tracking, the system uses one camera to capture images that contain sun position information, merging detection, tracking, and measurement functions into a single device.
Solution Approach 2:
The camera serves multiple purposes: it captures images for sun position detection, provides visual verification, and can potentially track other celestial objects. This multi-functional approach replaces specialized single-purpose MEMS sensors, reducing the total number of components while maintaining or improving reliability.
3Ease of manufacture
If conventional image processing methods are used, then ease of manufacture is improved, but measurement precision deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a feedback mechanism where the processed image results are used to determine sun position, and this information can be fed back to adjust the camera angle or processing parameters. This iterative feedback loop improves measurement precision while maintaining the simplicity of using standard image processing techniques.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent uses dynamic image processing that adapts to varying sun positions and lighting conditions. Rather than relying on fixed, complex algorithms, the system dynamically adjusts processing parameters based on the captured images, maintaining high precision with relatively simple manufacturing and implementation.
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 method allows for accurate and reliable sun position tracking at a lower cost, enabling efficient solar energy collection by measuring the sun's direction without the need for expensive sensors or manual adjustments, making it suitable for a wide range of applications.
Implementation Method 1
capturing one or more images using one or more image sensors; and processing the one or more captured images using the black sun effect
Data Source
AI summary
The present invention provides a sun position tracking method based on a black sun effect of an image sensor, a computer program including commands for causing a computer system to perform the method, and a solar sensor using the method. The sun position tracking method includes processing a plurality of images captured using a plurality of image sensors installed to capture a plurality of images of the sun irrespective of the position of the sun to estimate the center point of the black sun and track the position of the sun.