Method and apparatus for operating a solar energy system to account for cloud shading
US9170033B2 · kind B2 · utility
Assignee
Inventor
Key dates
| Filing date | Jan 20, 2011 |
| Grant date | Oct 27, 2015 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Jul 2, 2034 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC Y)Emerging Cross-Sectional Technologies
- CPC primaryY02E10/52
- WIPO fieldThermal processes and apparatus
- WIPO sectorMechanical engineering
Abstract
Images representative of cloud shadows with respect to a field of heliostats can be used to adjust operation of a solar energy system. For example, images of a field of heliostats and shadows produced by the clouds can be obtained. Additionally or alternatively, images of the sky and clouds can be obtained. The images can be analyzed to determine a shading parameter. Based on the shading parameter, an operating parameter of the solar energy system can be changed or maintained. For example, the operating parameter may include aiming directions for one or more of the heliostats. Cloud characteristics in addition to the location of the cloud shadow can be used in determining the shading parameter. Such characteristics can be used in determining if and/or how to change the operating parameter of the solar energy system.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.