US Patent:
20140137924, May 22, 2014
Inventors:
- Montrose CO, US
Craig Hollabaugh - Montrose CO, US
Assignee:
BRIGHTLEAF TECHNOLOGIES, INC. - Montrose CO
International Classification:
H01L 31/052
Abstract:
An array of solar collectors track the sun based on measured values of power output from the array and from a sun sensor on the array. The sun is tracked by periodically adjusting the altitude and azimuth of the array so the collectors remain pointed at the sun to maximize an amount of solar flux reflected from the collectors. The sun sensor, which detects alignment of the sun, recognizes when relative movement of the sun causes about a 10% reduction in power output of the array. The altitude and azimuth of the array are readjusted based on output from the sun sensor. While the array is being reoriented, power output from the array is monitored, and values for power output versus orientation of the array are recorded. Offset values between the power output, sun sensor output, and the ephemeral equations are calculated by comparing these values during operation.