Devices, methods, and systems for control of heliostats
US8739775B2 · kind B2 · utility
Assignee
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | Feb 17, 2009 |
| Grant date | Jun 3, 2014 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Jun 23, 2031 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC Y)Emerging Cross-Sectional Technologies
- CPC primaryY02E10/52
- WIPO fieldThermal processes and apparatus
- WIPO sectorMechanical engineering
Abstract
Adherence to flux or resultant measurable parameter limits, ranges, or patterns can be achieved by directing heliostat mounted mirrors to focus on aiming points designated on the surface of a solar receiver. Different heliostats can be directed to different aiming points, and a heliostat can be directed to different aiming points at different times. The cumulative flux distribution resulting from directing a plurality of heliostats to any aiming point on a receiver surface can be predicted by using statistical methods to calculate the expected beam projection for each individual heliostat or alternatively for a group of heliostats. Control of the heliostats in a solar power system can include designating aiming points on a receiver from time to time and assigning heliostats to aiming points from time to time in accordance with an optimization goal.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.