Product Feature Profile: Real Time Sensing

Introduction

In this installment of the Sun Action Trackers Feature Profile we will be discussing our patented Real Time Sensing (RTS) solution and how it compares to other traditional methods which are commonly referred to as astronomical or algorithmic tracking solutions.  As technology advances in the solar industry, the percentage gains of production are becoming thinner and are harder to attain.  Tracker manufacturers specifically are finding innovative ways to maximize production as innovation slows.

Archaic Technology in a Cutting-Edge Space

Traditional tracking solutions use mathematical algorithms to essentially tell the tracker where the sun should be so that it can position itself to optimize the production angle for the panel array.  To put it in simple terms, it is essentially the input of a Farmer’s Almanac into a control system that tells where the sun will be by historical data sets.  Though this system is effective in most cases, there are key issues that arise when choosing traditional tracking methods.

  • Cloudy Days – Since energy is consumed to move the solar panel array, it is assumed that they are producing energy. During cloudy or stormy days, traditional tracking methods will continue to track in unideal scenarios, leading to parasitic energy loss since they are using energy with no real increase in production. Another issue on cloudy or stormy days is that the highest point of irradiance is not always where the sun is.  Oftentimes, the highest point of irradiance is not located directly where the sun is aligned.
  • Calibration– When a solar project “goes online” or gets commissioned, there is a very specific calibration process that involves intricate programming that aligns the system with perfect zero angling which creates the baseline for the tracking model. This also requires a very specific team to make sure that the solar project is aligned and synced with the algorithm that directs it.  Furthermore. these type systems also require significant time and highly trained technician to fully sync.

Track The Sun

Sun Action Trackers’ Real Time Sensing was specifically designed to alleviate these two key issues with traditional tracking methods, leading to up to 5% increased energy production (depending on location and weather patterns).   By using our patented RTS solution, Sun Action Trackers are able to triangulate the highest point of irradiance in the sky and are able to direct our trackers to that point, which maximizes power production.  There are also some key benefits to using a Real Time Sensing Solution in your project.

  • Cloudy Day Scenario – Our RTS solution will do two very specific things on cloudy day scenarios. The first is the actual tracking of the solar radiation.  Our trackers will focus on the most productive point of irradiance which will show an immediate gain over traditional styles of solar tracking.  The second is irradiance measurement.  When the level of irradiance drops below 3000 lux (about the point where you would lose your shadow), Sun Action Trackers will go to stow mode, limiting the parasitic loss issue that algorithmic solutions incur.  This is an additional gain since our systems know when to stop using energy to produce it.
  • Commissioning Process– Real Time Sensing is specifically designed to align perpendicularly to the highest point of irradiance, so when you “turn your system on” it will auto calibrate the entire array or arrays toward that point. This means that there is no calibration needed on our systems, saving you valuable time and money on your project commissioning.

Key Takeaway

The use of Real Time Sensing Technology will increase power production and decrease parasitic loss on your system while saving you valuable commissioning time through auto-calibration.
If you would like to learn more about real time sensing and for more specifications click here

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