With the rapid development of renewable energy technology, as a clean and sustainable energy form, solar energy has attracted more and more attention. In order to improve the efficiency of solar power generation system, solar tracking technology is widely used. Among them, angle adjustment is one of the core links in the solar tracking system, which directly affects the light receiving efficiency of solar panels.
First, the basic principle of solar tracking
The main function of the solar tracking system is to adjust the angle of the solar panel so that it always faces the position of the sun, thus maximizing the solar radiation energy received per unit area. The position of the sun changes constantly in a day, moving from east to west, and with the change of seasons, the height angle (elevation angle) of the sun will also change. Therefore, the solar tracker needs the ability to adjust the horizontal direction (azimuth) and vertical direction (elevation).
Second, the way of angle adjustment
According to different tracking methods, solar tracking system can be divided into two types: single-axis tracking and double-axis tracking.
1. Single axis tracking:
Single-axis tracking system can only adjust the angle in one direction, usually azimuth. This system is suitable for areas where sunshine changes mainly in azimuth, such as near the equator. Although its tracking accuracy is limited, it is simple in structure and low in cost, which is suitable for application scenarios that do not require particularly high power generation efficiency.
2. Two-axis tracking:
Dual-axis tracker can adjust azimuth and elevation at the same time, and can track the position of the sun more accurately. This system is widely used in high latitudes or places where power generation efficiency is required. Although the structure is complex and the cost is high, the increase in power generation can often make up for the initial investment.
Third, the technical realization of angle adjustment
The realization methods of angle adjustment mainly include photoelectric sensor tracking, astronomical algorithm tracking and hybrid tracking.
-photoelectric sensor tracking:
The change of sunlight intensity is detected by photosensitive element, and the angle of solar panel is adjusted by control system. This method is real-time, but it is easily disturbed by weather factors such as cloud cover.
-astronomical algorithm tracking:
Calculate the position of the sun according to the geographical position, date and time, so as to control the motor to adjust the angle. This method is not affected by the weather and has high accuracy, but it needs high computing power and accurate system calibration.
-Hybrid tracking:
Combining the advantages of photoelectric sensing and astronomical algorithm, the algorithm is used for coarse adjustment first, and then the sensor is used for fine adjustment, thus achieving high accuracy and stability.
IV. Matters needing attention in practical application
When using the solar tracking system for angle adjustment, the following points should also be considered:
1. Latitude of installation site: The higher the latitude, the greater the change of solar altitude angle, and the higher the requirement for elevation adjustment.
2. Response speed of the system: the speed of adjusting the angle should match the moving speed of the sun to avoid the lag from affecting the efficiency.
3. Maintenance and calibration: check the mechanical parts and control system regularly to ensure the reliability of long-term operation.
V. Conclusion
Generally speaking, the angle adjustment in solar tracking system is of great significance to improve the efficiency of solar energy utilization. With the continuous progress of technology, the accuracy and intelligence of angle adjustment are constantly improved, which provides strong support for promoting the development of solar power generation. In the future, with the integrated application of artificial intelligence and Internet of Things technology, the solar tracking system will serve the green energy construction more intelligently and efficiently.