Modular low cost trackerless spectral sensor
| DWPI Title: Photodiode sensor device for spectral irradiance analysis for positioning photovoltaic (PV) arrays, has photodiode that receives filtered light incident on window and transmits signal associated with sensed parameters of filtered light |
| Abstract: A non-tracking solar sensor device and systems. The non-tracking solar sensor system includes a transparent hemispherical dome enclosure for receiving light. A diffuser is disposed with the enclosure for diffusing the light. A photodiode sensor array senses at least one discrete wavelength of the diffused light. A data acquisition module is configured to receive a sensor signal from the sensor array, the signal indicative of light quality at least one discrete wave band for processing via a processor module. |
| Use: Photodiode sensor device for spectral irradiance analysis for positioning photovoltaic (PV) arrays. |
| Advantage: The inexpensive spectral sensor is suitable for outdoor use that accurately monitors the solar spectrum to optimize solar power generation and better predict photovoltaic (PV) performance. The ability to operate the spectral sensor without the need for an expensive solar spectrum tracker to record accurate spectral irradiance measurements from any non-shaded location is achieved. The crop yields are improved due to the impact of the quality of light at certain bands and spectral-light research management for enhanced foliage crop productions. The solar spectrum sensors require minimal operating power, and can also be connected to a tandem, inexpensive solar cell-battery assembly and data logger. |
| Novelty: The system comprises a housing (11). The transparent widow at one end of the housing is for admitting solar irradiance. The photo diode sensor is provided within the housing. The filter is provided between the transparent window and the photo diode sensor for selectively passing discrete bands of solar irradiance. The data acquisition module is configured to receive a sensor signal from the photodiode sensor (14). The signal is indicative of light quality at a discrete wave band. The computer system receives digital data from the data acquisition module for processing. The filter is a rotating filter wheel (12). The motor (17) is positioned within the housing for rotating the filter wheel. |
| Filed: 8/29/2022 |
| Application Number: US17897665A |
| Tech ID: SD 13350.2 |
| This invention was made with Government support under Contract No. DE-NA0003525 awarded by the United States Department of Energy/National Nuclear Security Administration. The Government has certain rights in the invention. |
| Data from Derwent World Patents Index, provided by Clarivate All rights reserved. Republication or redistribution of Clarivate content, including by framing or similar means, is prohibited without the prior written consent of Clarivate. Clarivate and its logo, as well as all other trademarks used herein are trademarks of their respective owners and used under license. |