Misalignments measurement of CPV optical components through image acquisition

Abstract

Concentrator Photovoltaics (CPV) technology relies on optical systems that concentrate sunlight on solar cells in exchange for a reduction of the permitted angular tolerance when pointing at the sun. A proper alignment between optics and photovoltaic receivers is crucial for the performance of this technology, particularly point focus CPV systems with concentration ratios above 100X that have narrow angular tolerances. This study presents the theoretical fundamentals of a method for evaluating misalignments in a CPV module. The method is based on the acquisition and analysis of images, taken by a camera, of the photovoltaic receivers magnified through the primary optics. The method has been successfully validated by empirical measurements and ray tracing simulations of a single lens-receiver unit.

Misalignments characterization for micro-CPV modules

“…A method for misalignments characterization in CPV through image acquisition has been applied and validated in previous works [5], measuring known introduced misalignments with a maximum value of 0.45º±0.06º. The method relies on examining the receiver position with respect to its POE.…”

“…In this work, a validated method based on image processing for misalignments characterization in CPV [5] is proposed to be applied to a novel micro-CPV module with integrated tracking. The indispensable considerations and the needed processing for successfully applying the method in micro-CPV technology are established and explained.…”

Optical Developments in Concentrator Photovoltaic Systems—A Review

“…Optical losses occurred due to misalignment between the solar cell and concentrators in both CPV and CSP systems [34][35][36]. The block diagram of solar concentrator systems is shown in Figure 3.…”