Algorithm to account for nonverticality of the azimuthal axis of the concentrator in program tracking of the Sun

Abstract

Powerful solar stations of tower and modular types include from hundreds to thousands of concentrators and heliostats; thus, there occurs the problem of their control and maintaining the rotations of the concentrator following the apparent motion of the Sun. The optical tracking systems (TS) perform the task of tracking, but maintaining them requires wired or wireless connection with the control panel. The necessity of such a connection makes it possible to consider the problem of program tracking. Unlike optical TS, the accuracy of program tracking is affected by a number of factors, in particular, by nonverticality of the azimuthal axis of the concentrator. Therefore, the program tracking algorithm should include a block that takes into account and compensates for the nonverticality of the azimuthal axis. We have obtained a system of equations that forms the algorithm to account for the nonverticality of the azimuthal axis of the concentrators and estimated the influence of these inaccuracies. It has been shown that an increase in the Sun’s altitude (height) significantly influences the azimuthal angles on axes of rotation, while zenithal corrections are within the range of inaccuracies of the azimuthal axis alignment.