CN106537060B - The monitoring and measuring of multiple light sources, especially heliostat - Google Patents

Abstract

What is be described herein is a kind of for monitoring and/or measuring the device of multiple orientations optical emitter (15), and each radiation source guides light radiation as the beam (202) of limited solid angle.Described device includes measuring device (33), have by directed radiation source in angle mutual different ability.The device further includes the section hit at least 50% across or by the radiation beam from each radiation source above it, carrys out the component of scanning survey equipment (33).Described device includes the set to record the multiple images respectively detected at measuring device (33) at the continuous position of measuring device (33) during the scanning.With radiation of the record from multiple directed radiation sources (15) at the different location of measuring device across the section scanning survey equipment (33).The position can be sufficiently distinguished in the set of multiple images to allow simultaneously to measure and/or monitor directed radiation source during the single sweep operation of measuring device (33) across or by the section.

Description

The monitoring and measuring of multiple light sources, especially heliostat

Technical field

This invention relates generally to the monitoring of the orientation of multiple directional light sources and/or measurements.The invention allows to measure Radiation intensity in ray angle and position array.One purposes is simultaneously to measure the intensity from each of multiple light sources Pattern (pattern).The present invention is particularly (although not exclusively) in the calibration and control of the heliostat of solar energy field In it is useful.Such solar energy field, which usually can be, to be had central solar energy receiver (usually on pylon) and is being installed into For angle adjust with most preferably receive sunbeam and be channeled to central receiver heliostat array type the sun It can collection device.The solar collecting device of mentioned kind is referred to herein as central receiver solar energy collecting system.

Background technique

The challenge that central receiver solar energy collecting system has is between manufacturing cost and the accuracy of manufacture Tradeoff relative to heliostat.Large-sized solar field can have hundreds of, even thousands of a heliostats, and therefore system Macroeconomy performance may depend in the manufacture of each heliostat and realize low unit cost, including for being carried out to heliostat The actuator configuration of angle adjustment.On the other hand, cheap manufacture will generally bring high tolerance, will lead to across large-scale field Significant changes in terms of the optical characteristics of heliostat.A mode for solving the problems, such as this is the geometry for obtaining each settled date reflecting mirror Calibration or characteristic, such as the center by measuring heliostat image.The position of this point can be used to on each heliostat Each of two angle positioning systems calibrated or adjusted.It is desirable that can survey on a receiving surface during operation Measure image shape.However, it is not that the receiver in central receiver system, which operates at high temperature and is for measuring device, Sharp position.Reflectivity may be non-uniform, and surface may be nonplanar.

United States Patent (USP) 4,564,275 provides a kind of collimation technique, eliminates and measures again and work on the spot, and provides Simultaneously make the method for single heliostat perhaps multiple heliostats alignment.This technology is depended on aiming point with radiometer from reception Machine becomes the reference position on auxiliary mark, which is used to determine and then is used to the beam for realigning heliostat Mass center error.This technology the problem is that itself and do not solve the calibration of cheap and inaccurate heliostat.

The PCT Patent Application of the applicant discloses WO 2012/083383 and discloses solar collecting device comprising fixed The solar energy receiver of main target of the justice to receive guided daylight from adjustable angle heliostat field.By operatively coupling Actuator devices are closed to realize that the controller of the angle adjustment of each heliostat is configured to connect during the operation of the device The interim angle of each heliostat is caused to adjust continuously, so that the sunbeam received at each heliostat is directed to auxiliary mesh Mark reaches predetermined amount of time.The expression of each steering beam at auxiliary mark is by cameras record, and image parameter (such as image Mass center position) and with reference to specification deviation provide for corresponding heliostat carry out angle adjust to improve it main The basis of aiming accuracy in target.

Latter alignment mechanism is suitable for the small heliostat inaccurately constructed.It is enterprising in auxiliary mark during operation The frequent measurement of capable image centroid allows the model of Systems Operator's holding heliostat geometry.

U.S. Patent Application Publication 2012/0174909 describe it is a kind of using around central target one circle camera will determine The system of solar eyepiece alignment.The camera is designed to be reflected off each settled date from the periphery solar energy region measurement of solar energy image The imbalance of the light of mirror.U.S. Patent Application Publication 2013/0021471 describes the method similar to US 2012/0174909.

Three problems have been identified from these methods.The solar energy field of tens of or hundreds of megawatts capacities has been proposed, and And these may include thousands of small heliostats.In this case, regularly to carry out independent school to heliostat Quasi- requirement may be problematic, because calibration or auxiliary mark are shared resources.In all other heliostat by individually school It will be present between the calibration point for a heliostat while quasi- for a long time.The number of target is calibrated there are practical limit, Because it all needs to have the size similar with receiver, this makes many targets heavy.

When small heliostat and receiver at long distances when, there is Second Problem: its image formed in white surface More much lower than environment light times of possible intensity.The system that design can accurately measure heliostat image under these conditions will propose Significant challenge.

Third problem is due to the dependence to the heliostat calibration via auxiliary mark, and there is still a need for heliostat geometry knots for system The detailed model of structure is to allow the amendment carried out on auxiliary mark to be effective in main (i.e. receiver) target.

U.S. Patent Application Publication 2013/0139804 describes a kind of system for characterizing the surface of single heliostat. Each heliostat is incrementally scanned across more pixel cameras, and image snapshot is shot at each scanned position.By making pixel It is associated with each section on heliostat surface, the geometry on surface can be defined, and solar energy is optimized using this information The flux of energy of receiver.

PCT Patent Application discloses WO 2009/152573 and describes a kind of method and dress for being calibrated to heliostat It sets, aims to solve the problem that above-mentioned third problem, but be limited.In on-line calibration program, by primary recipient Compare at machine and corresponds to the Flux Distribution for being in multiple reflecting mirrors that first and second reflect pitch-angles to execute calibration.This technology It is required that the movement of the heliostat during normal operating, and therefore to the error sensitive in independent settled date mirror actuator.In addition, this Kind technology does not allow spatially to distinguish individual reflecting mirror contribution, only its overall contribution flux.In off-line calibration procedure, WO 2009/152573, which is only taught, to be directed to single heliostat on primary receiver and adjusts mirror angle to realize most Good power detection.Influence of this technology by heliostat downtime problem described above.

The general purpose of the preferred embodiment of the present invention be to provide the orientation of multiple directional light sources improved monitoring and/or Measurement.In specific application interested, the purpose of the present invention is the above problems at least to be partially solved current alignment system The mode of (it causes the reception of the day light image on from heliostat to auxiliary mark) provides the heliostat form in solar energy field In multiple interval light sources calibration and adjustment.

It is not to the reference of any prior art in the present specification and should not be understood the prior art to be thus formed in Australia big A part or this prior art of Leah or the common sense in any other compass of competency can be reasonably expected that quilt Those skilled in the art is determining, understands and is considered as and relevant recognizes or any type of hint.

Summary of the invention

In its application of sun heliostat field, the present invention relates to scanned by the compound beam from multiple heliostats Or the concept of inswept each sensor array with multiple pixels.It records image and the information that result can be used to obtain is come simultaneously Ground measures image from each heliostat.Then adjustable each heliostat is to irradiate the prime of receiver target.

In one aspect, the present invention provides a kind of for monitoring and/or measuring the device in multiple directed radiation sources, each Radiation source will radiate the beam as limited solid angle and guide, comprising:

Measuring device, have by directed radiation source in angle mutual different ability；

Section above it is hit at least 50% across or by the radiation beam from each radiation source, to scan The component of measuring device；And

It is respectively detected at measuring device to be recorded at the continuous position of measuring device during the scanning Multiple images set component；

Wherein, it is recorded at the different location of measuring device from described as measuring device is scanned across the section The radiation in multiple directed radiation sources, and the position is sufficiently recognizable in the set of multiple images to allow surveying Measure equipment across or by the section single sweep operation during directed radiation source while measure and/or monitoring.

In second aspect, the present invention provides a kind of methods for monitoring and/or measuring multiple directed radiation sources, each Radiation source will radiate the beam as limited solid angle and guide, which comprises

(a) it hits in section above it and is received from multiple at least 50% of the radiation beam from each radiation source The radiation in directed radiation source；

(b) across or by the section scanning survey equipment, which has directed radiation source the phase in angle The ability mutually differentiated；And

(c) record respectively detects at measuring device at the continuous position of measuring device during the scanning The set of multiple images；

Wherein, it is recorded at the different location of measuring device from multiple fixed with across the section scanning survey equipment Radiation to radiation source；And

The position be in the set of multiple images sufficiently it is recognizable, with allow measuring device across or pass through It monitors and/or measures while being oriented radiation source during the single sweep operation of the section.

In the first embodiment of first and second aspect, measuring device preferably includes sensor array, each sensing Device has multiple rdaiation response pixels, and at each position of the array, preferably at different each subsets of pixel Record the radiation from multiple directed radiation sources, and the subset be in the set of multiple images sufficiently it is recognizable, With allow sensor array across or by the section single sweep operation during be oriented radiation source while measurement and/or Monitoring.

In certain embodiments, measuring device include be configured to direct radiation onto one or more sensors can Tilting mirror array.

In one embodiment, measuring device includes the battle array of the single pixel camera of associated computer control Column.

In certain embodiments, the subset is mutual exclusion.In other embodiments, the subset is shared one or more public Pixel altogether.

In certain embodiments, sensor array is scanned by the first actuator.Preferably by installing sensor array To can incrementally move through the arm of compound beam the scanning for realizing sensor array by the first actuator.The preferred ground of arm Vertically extend from receiver in sheet, and the direction of the incremental movement of arm is substantially horizontal.The position of arm preferably by Controller control.Controller is preferably further configured to speed of the control arm relative to receiver.During first time period, the One actuator preferably across or by the section scanning sensor array, and during the second period, the first actuator Arm is set to remove the path in the region.In one embodiment, the second actuator is configured to selectively moved arm with more Close to or farther away from receiver.

In one embodiment, sensor array is linear sensor array.In another embodiment, sensor array is Two-dimensional sensor array.

In the third aspect, the present invention provides a kind of solar collecting devices, comprising:

Solar energy receiver defines the target to receive guided solar radiation；

Heliostat field is mounted for angle adjustment most preferably to receive a branch of solar radiation and be channeled to The target of solar energy receiver, the beam are formed together the compound beam being incident in target；And

According to the device of the first embodiment of first aspect, wherein the multiple directed radiation source includes the heliostat, And the section includes the region defined by the compound beam.

In fourth aspect, the present invention provides a kind of solar energy collecting methods, comprising:

It receives from angle adjustment is mounted in the target defined by solar energy receiver most preferably to receive one The solar radiation of the heliostat guidance of the heliostat field of beam solar radiation and the target for being channeled to solar energy receiver, institute It states beam and is formed together the compound beam being incident in target；

The step of executing the method according to the first embodiment of second aspect (b) and (c), wherein the multiple orientation spoke The source of penetrating includes the heliostat, and the section includes the region defined by the compound beam.

At the 5th aspect, the present invention provides actuators in the monitoring and/or measurement in multiple directed radiation sources to across Or section above it is hit by least 50% of the radiation beam from each radiation source, carry out the use of scanning survey equipment.

Unless wherein context requires in addition that, the variant (such as " packet of as used herein term " includes " and the term Include ", "comprising" and " containing ") be not intended to exclude other attachmentes, component, entirety or step.

As it is used herein, in addition to context requires in addition that, term " scanning " means with detector (such as sensor Array) on object or the movement mobile across object.

The use in the present specification such as term " daylight ", " light ", which is intended to refer to, covers visible, ultraviolet and infrared wavelength model The electromagnetic radiation one or more of enclosed.

As used herein term " limited solid angle " mean by optical receiver receive that centrum limited three Opposite two-dimensional angular in dimension space.

Detailed description of the invention

The preferred embodiment of the present invention is only further described in an illustrative manner with reference to the drawings, in the attached drawing In:

Fig. 1 is the simplification total figure of exemplary centric receiver solar energy collecting system；

Fig. 2 is the embodiment of the pylon installation central receiver of the system for combining Fig. 1 of the embodiment of the present invention Perspective view；

Fig. 3 is the functional block diagram of the primary clustering of the solar energy collecting system of embodiment according to the present invention, including control Device；

Fig. 4 is the rear perspective view of typical heliostat；

Fig. 5 is to illustrate to be applied to wherein linear camera array scanning or inswept embodiment at a right angle aligned with it The schematic diagram of the principle of the present invention；And

Fig. 6 and 7, which is illustrated respectively, has round and drum scanning alternative embodiment.

Specific embodiment

The present invention has in the operation of the central receiver solar energy collecting system using the heliostat economically fabricated Specific practicability.Illustrative such system 10 is depicted in Fig. 1.The system includes central solar energy receiver 12, On the large-scale array of the heliostat 15 of horizontal space separation or field 18 or front is pacified in a manner of cantilever support from pylon 11 Dress.Heliostat 15 is mounted for angle adjustment most preferably to receive the corresponding beam of daylight 200 and by the beam (as phase Answer guided beam 202) it is directed to solar energy receiver 12.As being best shown in Fig. 2, receiver 12 has hole Diameter defines the receiver target of the guided beam 202 to receive daylight from heliostat during the operation of system.Through The beam 202 of guidance is formed together the compound beam 203 being incident in receiver target.

Optimum reception position in this context is the two-dimentional Angle Position of heliostat, is connect in each heliostat to being incident on The specific time that flux of energy in receipts machine target makes the specific date of expectation contribution is controlled by center further described below Device processed is determined at being appropriate location.Generally, it is therefore an objective to most preferably close to the expectation flux level and flux point at receiver Cloth.

Generally, each heliostat is directional light sources, using the penetrating as limited solid angle of the light from its reflecting surface Beam and guide, and at least 50%(of the reflected beams be usually closer to 100%) impinge upon in target and target before section 38 On.

In the embodiment of the present invention described in figs 2 and 3, receiver 12 is installed on the top of pylon 11.However, will recognize What is known is that receiver 12 can be installed to pylon 11 with being supported by other types of frame in other embodiments, described other The frame of type includes illustrated cantilever frame in Fig. 1.Receiver target 13 is herein shown as general planar and rectangle 's.It may instead be other shapes, such as curve, cone or cylindrical shape in appropriate circumstances.

It is outstanding there are also including the substantial horizontal measuring device for extending pedestal 33 on receiver, by integrally or It is releasably attached to and substantially vertically extends pendency arm 31.It is mounted to substantially equally being vertically spaced apart for arm 31 The linear array 30 of sensor 32, each sensor 32 have the subarray of photoresponse pixel.In a preferred embodiment, it can incite somebody to action Sensor 32 is considered as digital camera sensor.Pedestal 33 includes for being aligned to right angle and substantially with sensor array With on the rectilinear direction at right angle of beam 202 (being indicated with arrow 35) across the compound beam in the section 38 of the front of target 13 Mechanism (not shown) may be actuated in the electronics of 203 scannings or inswept camera array 30.In another embodiment, camera array 30 not by It initiatively scans, but is allowed to passively scan under the external action of such as wind or gravity etc.

Actuatable mechanism is configured to make arm 31 speed and direction bridging to be determined by the control signal from controller Receipts machine target 13 incrementally moves or advances.During predetermined amount of time, the different subsets of sensor 32 and its inspection of respective pixel Survey the local optical power of compound beam or independent beam from various heliostats.

In the case where plane receiver target 13, as shown in Figure 2, actuatable mechanism be configured in direction and It is scanned in a linear fashion across target 13 in inverse direction the two.And if if necessary, arm 31 can be not right with target 13 It positions quasi-ly, thus not in the path of compound beam 203.It is in columnar embodiment, such as Fig. 6 and 7 in wherein receiver In it is illustrated, arm 31 can incrementally advance around the whole circumference of receiver in round or drum scanning.

In other embodiments (not shown), arm 31 essentially horizontally extends, and can may be actuated in vertical direction Ground is mobile.In the embodiment with cylindrical reception surface, arm 31 takes the form of substantially cylindrical collar, can be around Receiver is vertically movable.

In certain embodiments, the actuator system of the advanced mobile for pedestal 33 and arm 31 is provided.In a reality Apply in example, pedestal 33 telescopically or linearly activate with make in radial or other planes arm 31 be moved to closer to or more Far from receiver target 13.In another embodiment, arm 31 is hinged or is pivotally mounted to pedestal 33, and actuator is configured At selectively make arm 31 vertically around hinge/pivot point rotate and come out from the path of compound beam 203.

Generally, sensor 32, which need not separate, reaches identical distance, but may be provided in linear array, has in-between There is different distances.In other embodiments, array 30 is the two-dimentional battle array with the sensor 32 vertically and horizontally extended Column.

In other embodiments, the measuring device in addition to pixel array is utilized.In certain other embodiments, with can The inspection of the same size of radiation and the position in the measuring device replacement array 30 of orientation is measured according to two angle dimensions Survey device.In an alternative embodiment (not shown), with direct light to respective optical sensor or have multiple radiation Respond electric tiltable reflecting mirror, lens, the reflector/lens combination in the different corner reflection areas of the single optical sensor of pixel And/or the two-dimensional array of the same size and orientation of reflecting mirror or lens.Reflecting mirror or lens are serially or concurrently to light It learns sensor and transmits light.Can scanning reflection mirror/lens input light measured simultaneously with the scanning with overall detector array.Another In one alternative embodiment (not shown), detector includes the array of single pixel camera, can each pass through connecing at processor The post-processing (for example, via compression imaging technique) of the optical signal of receipts carries out space to light and angle is distinguished.

It in an alternative embodiment, only include single camera or sensor by rapidly scanning on two dimensions Detector distributes the needs to sensor array.The rate of two-dimensional scanning must be sufficiently fast, thus by directed radiation source at angle It is mutually distinguishable out on degree.

It will be appreciated that can be realized other types of detector, condition is that it allows angled selectivity, and energy It is enough that irradiation level is measured according to two-dimensional angular.

As shown in Figures 3 and 4, each heliostat 15 has individual actuators system 21, generally includes for respectively Control heliostat reflecting surface inclination (inclination) and drift angle (declination) a pair of of linear actuators 60, 62.By central controller 40(as illustrated in figure 3, it may include fitting to the Angle Position (both inclination and drift angle) of each heliostat When computer system) determine.This controller be operatively coupled to all heliostats actuator 60,62, be used to protect Hold magnetic sensor 80 and camera array 30 that controller is apprised of the actual angular position coordinate of each heliostat.Controller 40 It is also responsible for through actuatable mechanism come the position and speed of control arm 31.However, the scanning of arm 31 and sensor 32 is independently of fixed The angle of solar eyepiece positions.

The appropriate heliostat 15 with associated actuators 60,62 is illustrated in Fig. 4.Heliostat 15 is designated as being incorporated into Exemplary apparatus in system 10.However, it will be appreciated that can be by the heliostat or different heliostats of other types and design Combination be integrated in system 10.Heliostat 15 includes the large-scale concave surface that the supporting frame 20 of rectangular profile is fixed to by adhesive Mirror.Frame 20 is by with the top that the means of description are mounted on to bracket or pillar 70, and including prolonging from central hub 23 is radial Reach the central hub 23 and timber 22 of peripheral edge beam 22a.Timber 22 is secured to the respective planes radial arm of wheel hub 23 25.Reflecting mirror 14 is located in concave side.The size of component frame pattern as caused by software determines.It is used throughout frame 20 Fastener, such as screw thread form screw, anchoring, spot welding or bolted joints.

Reflecting mirror 14 is used the inner edge flange 28(for being applied to all timbers 22, and it jointly defines the scrobicula face parabolic bodily form Shape) on folded bump the adhesive based on polyurethane and be directly glued to frame 20.Reflecting mirror is usually by having height Reflectivity surface (such as composite plastic) and low iron-content are made with the glass for reducing the 3mm thickness of energy absorption.It is appropriate such Glass includes by the Sencofein glass manufactured or " the Miralite Solar Premium " that is manufactured by Saint Gobain.

For control heliostat orientation pairs of linear screw actuator 60,62 generally parallel position so that its two Person is essentially perpendicular to the extension of reflecting mirror 14.This prevents actuator 60,62 from colliding during operation, while to heliostat 12 Give larger range of optimum angle.Actuator 60,62 includes independent finished product DC motor 65.

Actuator 60,62 is arranged to provides control in 2 orthogonal directions, so that any angle of incident light can be directed to Degree keeps focus point.One axis (i.e. laterally) is controlled from east to west, and another (is tilted) upwards by north to south.So And an axis is controlled relative to another axis.Specifically, transverse rotation around frame Support bracket 66(itself to It is upper or be rotated down) the center base of form occur: this arrangement makes to be minimized by each 12 the space occupied amount of heliostat.

Frame 20 is connected to Support bracket 66 at perpendicular separation hinge so as to around the vertical axes rotation for combining hinge. First linear actuators 60 is installed in from Support bracket 66 laterally between rearwardly projecting arm 64 and mirror frame 20, so as to Control this transverse direction or thing moving in rotation.Bracket 66 is pivotally attached to the top of pillar 70 by bracket pin 68 in turn.Pin 68 is fixed Adopted sloping shaft, bracket 66 can be around the inclination axial adjustment to the inclination angle of frame 20.Above-mentioned vertical axes generally with sloping shaft It is orthogonal.Arm 64 is rigidly connected to bracket 66 with being placed as close as possible to sloping shaft.

Second actuator 62 extends between the attachment point at the lower end of pillar 70 and bracket 66 to realize reflecting mirror Inclination or the adjustment of inclination.The angle of arm 64 and bracket 66 is selected to provide best actuator geometry, according to the position in field Setting has different angles for each heliostat.Bracket 66 may also include many different attachment points for actuator 62, Also it may be selected to provide best angle according to the position of the independent heliostat in field.

As shown in Figure 3, the magnetic sensor 80 adjacent to the installation of each heliostat is used to measurement by inclination and transverse direction Each orientation or position angle for each heliostat that orientation or drift angle define.In certain embodiments, magnetic sensor 80 only exists It is associated with the subset of heliostat in operation.These sensors are cheap low precision (~8) encoders, such as Hall effect is compiled Code device.In addition, these encoders are deployed determining motor shaft position, rather than directly measure the angle position of mirror assembly It sets.

System 10 is activated using actuator 60,62 to mode of operation that it is most so that heliostat enters substantially by controller 40 Good orientation, heliostat all most preferably receive corresponding sunbeam and are channeled to solar energy receiver 12 at the preferential orientation Target 13.When the compound beam of this optically focused is not utilized for being coupled to the power plant offer thermal energy of receiver, it is necessary to pass through Adjustment heliostat is far from its optimum position to not causing the random irrelevant orientation of any common focusing sunlight to go system It activates and operates it not.

According to the embodiment of the present invention illustrated in Fig. 5, each digital camera sensor 32 is such as Charged Couple Light defined in independent or multiple photodiode in device (CCD) or complementary metal oxide semiconductor (CMOS) arrangement is rung Answer the plane subarray of pixel.Pixel can each be responded to provide the measurement for the light being incident in pixel.As described in Fig. 2, Camera array 30 has 25 digital camera sensors 32, but according to application and desired sensitivity, may be present more More or less sensor.It there typically will be at least two and preferably at least ten sensors 32.

Sub-array of pixels or digital camera sensor 32 are coupled to controller 40, and having indicates for recording every The appropriate electronic device of the data of the intensity and position of the light received at a sensor and at each pixel.With in target 13 Front is essentially horizontally configured to during scanning across the scanning of compound beam 203 or inswept camera array 30, controller 40 The set of the multiple images respectively detected at camera array is recorded at the continuous position 100 of array.Meanwhile sensor 32 other subsets are scanned across the beam of other heliostats simultaneously to characterize those heliostats.It is swept in the level of array 30 During retouching, the predetermined subset of sensor 32 is exposed to the light from each heliostat up to predetermined amount of time.In Fig. 5 102 at Depict the position of each digital camera sensor or array.In given scanning, there is preferably at least two continuous positions 100 and more preferably at least ten.

Distance of the scan path away from receiver is not crucial, and possible relative close (as shown) or distance are more Far.This is design decision comprising to many cameras in large area with lower intensity of beam to fewer camera But higher beams intensity is balanced.

It will be appreciated that any given heliostat 15 in field 18 will shine with transregional section of 38 scanning camera arrays 30 Penetrate the corresponding different subsets of the pixel illustrated at 110 in Fig. 5.With the sufficiently small picture in digital camera sensor Plain and sufficient scan position can simultaneously characterize all heliostats in field.For example, if each digital camera senses Device 32 is 10,000,000 pixel cameras and has 10000 heliostats, this is usually still the every heliostat of the pixel (reality of reasonable quantity On border about 1000).

Even if being filled in the case where wherein pixel is not small enough to all heliostats for simultaneously characterizing field in field The heliostat being spaced apart with dividing, the subset (one at each position 102 of each of digital camera subarray 32 of pixel It is a or multiple) it is sufficiently recognizable, optical characteristics while heliostat to allow interval.

Expressing the another way that this is arranged is the different zones that for example each heliostat will access each camera sensor.It is logical Cross know when shooting image each camera where and the intensity from each heliostat, Ke Yiji are calculated in each camera Calculate the shape of the image from each heliostat.Then misalignment can be calculated in turn and determines respective corners position correction, it is as follows It is described.

In the case of necessary, can by needed between each of spacing and pixel subset for making heliostat most Small spacing correlation will allow the required spacing between the heliostat of optical characterisation to be simultaneously readily determined.

In certain in previously described calibration and adjustment system, each heliostat in field must individually and successively It is directed toward auxiliary mark.It, can be not to any auxiliary mark and therefore to offline shooting heliostat with arrangement of the invention The sizable heliostat being sufficiently separated of number is simultaneously characterized or monitored in the case where any requirement.

It will of course realize that scanning be rapidly and infrequently to execute so that camera sensor is being scanned or is being swept During crossing only within the short time appropriate in compound beam 203, and it can deviate far from the wherein lower reality of intensity Receiver, both all makes it easier to camera design at durable (survive) and reliably runs.In some installations, Sensor array may must be actively cooled to avoid damage when array passes through thermal region.Additionally or alternatively, Ke Yitong Arrangement is crossed using driving high performance enough and the high-velocity scanning of control system to keep the residence time in compound beam 203 minimum Change.What is scanned every time preferably lasts for the time in the range of 0.5 to 20 second, more preferably 1 to 15 second, and for example, about 2 seconds.

It about scan frequency, need only usually be scanned within every 60 seconds or so, but preferably may more frequently carry out Scanning.It is envisaged that array by it is inswept from receiver deviate reach receiver size several times of surface.This offset will reduce into The total flux intensity being mapped on sensor, and therefore extend its useful life longevity.Rotating system may be used in system, Wherein, such as receiver includes continuous cylinderical surface, but this will exclude to reduce absorption energy by intermittence movement.

As previously mentioned, controller 40 is programmed to execute many calibrations and control task to optimize in main target aperture The convertible energy received at 13.First in these tasks be each heliostat calibration, and second is in response to The angle adjustment of heliostat is realized in calibration.During calibration phase, by means of from controller 40 to settled date mirror actuator 60, 62 control signal shifts its Angle Position per next heliostat.It can be by making camera array 30 across having by record The relative magnitude for the peak response that the independent heliostat beam 202 of constant direct irradiation level is inswept and generates carries out school to system It is quasi-.Then the photoresponse from each sensor position 102 is sampled, and these sample image groups is then combined into picture The subset of element is inferred to the reference bit for heliostat from the reference picture to generate the reference picture for each heliostat It sets.

The repetition of this process successively carried out across all heliostats between the break-in period of device forms each heliostat " instant " calibration.

By before operation on the scene across compound beam 203 intermittently scanning sensor array 30, to receive and record The more new data of respective subset relative to the pixel simultaneously irradiated by corresponding heliostat, will be in the more new data and memory The data of the previously determined reference position for heliostat compare and if necessary in response to being detected in comparison step Difference and output angle position correction or adjustment signal are realized monitoring heliostat annular location and are transported at regular intervals The more new stage of row adjustment.

In optimal placement, the subset of pixel is mutual exclusion, i.e., there is no the pixels that any two subset shares.Preferably It is the both full-pixel separation that at least there is the adjacent pixel of respective subset.This is because to ensure the pixel side between heliostat beam Boundary's drop will be unpractical.In replaceable arrangement, the subset of pixel may share one or more common pixels: these Subset can be still it is recognizable, condition be exist enough pixels not common for each heliostat can be distinguished and Characterization.

Since interested camera pixel is not affected by the influence of environment light, so and auxiliary mark figure remote in heliostat distance As the foregoing problems that can not show a candle to occur when environmental light intensity is strong are substantially addressed.

This system calibrated during operation in receiver target allows to adjust heliostat in a closed loop manner, removal All error sources, the property regardless of actuating system, only requirement is that heliostat can be moved just to intercept initially The region being swept.This solve the problems, such as previously as " third " existing for first configuration discussed using auxiliary mark Disadvantage.

Methods and apparatus of the present invention can be used to characterize the shape of independent heliostat.If each incidence angle exists enough Pixel, then the configuration can be used to the light in various parts or element of each phase airborne measurements from mirror surface Amount.This allows to determine the Relative slope of the element across mirror surface, effectively measuring shape.

Preferably, the angle of each pixel is 1 × 10^-6Between 1.0 degree.What lower limit was most likely subject to combine with visual field The limitation of the pixel density of CCD element.

Another application is that large-scale multi-panel (multi faceted) heliostat " inclination " is calculated using these measurement results In adjustment, the relative angle adjustment of the individually sometimes flat facet in large-scale heliostat.

In the above-described embodiments, sensor or camera array 30 are vertical linearities, and scan or it is inswept be with its The right angle (level) of alignment.In replaceable arrangement, array can be by means of the rotation or part circular before plane receiver It is inswept or come around cylinder-shaped or part-cylindrical receiver drum scanning across compound beam.In another arrangement In, array face in front of the receiver it is vertical it is inswept in pass through compound beam.

In heliostat calibration application described above, it is expected that the visual field of each camera is made to include entire field and enough angles Resolution ratio is to differentiate individual heliostat.In reflector surface characterization, higher angular resolution is intended to provide with can There are many pixels in mirror surface, visual field only covers single heliostat.Embodiment can have than for heliostat school Plane farther sensor in range aperture for quasi- application, and entire component will need to aim at interested heliostat.Therefore, In certain embodiments, pedestal 33 and/or arm 31 can be mechanically actuated so that arm 31 and sensor array 30 are moved to more Close to or further from receiver 12 surface.This movement allows more or fewer sensor pixels to be included in from the settled date In the compound beam of mirror.

The present invention more generally can be considered as angular selectivity image-forming component, can measured on surface and incidence angle Intensity in angular region.It can be used for accurately measuring meaning using the mixture of computer generated image and conventional radiography Figure intercepts the present kinematography of the lighting pattern on the surface cgi of reflection.For example, if requiring the CGI vehicle so that glittering It crosses and is related to the complex scene of multiple light sources and cast shadow object etc., there is the general of camera array instead of driving face on it It is open to traffic to measure pattern and the direction of light, makes it possible to and be reproduced into be presented for CGI.If to realize on a small scale, Then the present invention can provide a kind of novel camera, can form focus with algorithmic approach, and can be during editing process Again it focuses and changes the depth of field.

Referring to for " one embodiment ", " some embodiments " or " embodiment " is meant to combine the reality in this specification A particular feature, structure, or characteristic described in example is applied to be included at least one embodiment of the invention.Therefore, phrase is " one In a embodiment ", " in certain embodiments " or " in embodiment " throughout this specification different location appearance not necessarily But it can be all referring to the same embodiment.In addition, in one or more embodiments, it can be in any appropriate manner by specific spy Sign, structure or characteristic combination, such as will become apparent to those of ordinary skill in the art according to the disclosure.

As used herein term " exemplary " is used in the sense that providing example, opposite with instruction property. That is, " exemplary embodiment " is the embodiment provided as example, with the embodiment phase that must be Exemplary physical properties Instead.

It should be appreciated that in the above description of the exemplary embodiment of the disclosure, sometimes by various features of the invention It is concentrated in together in single embodiment, figure or its description to keep the disclosure smooth and to help to understand in various inventive aspects It is one or more.However, disclosed method not to be construed to reflection claimed invention requirement than in each right The intention of the more features enunciated in asking.On the contrary, as the following claims reflect, aspect of the invention exists In less than all features for individually disclosing embodiment above.Therefore, the claim after detailed description is by clearly It is integrated in this detailed description, each claim independently advocates its requirement as a separate embodiment of the present invention.

Although in addition, some embodiments as described herein include be included in it is certain but not other in other embodiments The combination of feature, the feature of different embodiments is intended within the scope of the invention, and forms different embodiments, such as this field The skilled person will understand that.For example, in following following claims, it can be in any combination way using any claimed Embodiment.

In the description provided herein, many specific details are elaborated.It is to be understood, however, that there is no these specific Implementable the embodiment of the present invention in the case where details.In other cases, well-known method, knot are not yet illustrated in detail Structure and technology are in order to avoid keep the understanding of this description ambiguous hard to understand.

Similarly, it is noted that term coupling should not be considered limited to directly connect when used in a claim It connects.It can be used term " coupling " and " connection " together with its derivative.It should be understood that these belong to be not intended as it is mutual Synonym.Therefore, the range for being coupled to the expression of the equipment A of equipment B should not be limited to the output of wherein equipment A by directly It is connected to the equipment or system of the input of equipment B.Be intended to A output the input of B between there are paths, which can To be the path for including other equipment or component." coupling " can refer to two or more elements be in directly physically or electrically connect Mutually directly contact does not still still cooperate with each other or interacts for touching or two or more elements.

Therefore, although it have been described that being considered as the content of the preferred embodiment of the present invention, but those skilled in the art Member will be recognized other and further modifications may be made thereto without departing from the spirit of the invention, and be intended to require Protect all such change and modification such as fallen within the scope of the present invention.It can be added to schematic diagram or delete function from schematic diagram Can, and commutative operation.Step can be added or deleted to the method described within the scope of the invention.

Clause

In a first aspect, that the present invention provides a kind of is each using light as limited solid angle for monitoring and/or measuring Beam and the device of multiple directional light sources guided, comprising:

Sensor array, each sensor have multiple photoresponse pixels；

Section above it is hit at least 50% across or by the light beam from each light source, it is described to scan The component of sensor array；And

It is respectively detected at the array to be recorded at the continuous position of the array during the scanning Multiple images set component；

Wherein, it is recorded at the different respective subsets of pixel from described as the array is scanned across the section The light of multiple directional light sources, and the subset be in the set of multiple images sufficiently it is recognizable, with allow sensing Device array across or by the section single sweep operation during directional light sources while measure and/or monitoring.

Advantageously, in one embodiment, described device further includes controller, which is configured to receive and depositing The data that the different subsets of the pixel relative to the reference orientation for respective sources are stored in reservoir, then receive and remember Use videotape to record for the pixel simultaneously illuminated by respective sources respective subset more new data, and by this more new data with Data in memory compare to realize the reference orientation of light source.

In embodiment, controller is further configured to the difference detected in comparison step and output light Source is orientated revise signal.

It is in another embodiment, useful to the multiple light sources of the element as larger (such as substantially continuous) light source, Described device includes controller, which is configured to receive and store the different sons relative to pixel in memory Data of collection, and handle the data to characterize light source, such as each element of the amount of light or larger light source for being issued from light source Relative slope.

In second aspect, the present invention also provides a kind of monitoring and/or each penetrating using light as limited solid angle is measured Beam and the method for multiple directional light sources guided, comprising:

It hits to receive in section above it at least 50% of the light beam from each light source and comes from the multiple orientation The light of light source；

Across or by the section scanning sensor array, each sensor is with multiple photoresponse pixels；And

During the scanning at the continuous position of the array record respectively detected at the array it is more The set of a image；

Wherein, it records and comes from the different respective subsets of the pixel of array with the array is scanned across the section The light of the multiple directional light sources；And

The subset be in the set of multiple images it is sufficiently recognizable, with allow sensor array across or it is logical It monitors and/or measures while being oriented light source during the single sweep operation for crossing the section.

Advantageously, the method also includes:

The data of the different subsets of the pixel relative to the reference orientation for respective sources are stored in memory； And

The more new data of the respective subset relative to the pixel simultaneously illuminated by respective sources is then received and records, And the data of the reference orientation that is used for light source of the more new data in memory compare by this.

This method preferably further includes in response to detecting difference in comparison step and output light source orientation revise signal.

The multiple directional light sources can be the element of discrete light source or larger (such as continuous) light source.The multiple orientation Light source can be active optical generator or passive type reflective optical system or transmitter.Heliostat is the typical case of latter situation.

In the application of the first aspect of the present invention, the multiple directional light sources are the heliostats in solar energy field.

In the third aspect, the present invention provides a kind of solar collecting devices, comprising:

Solar energy receiver defines the target to receive guided daylight；

Heliostat field is mounted for angle adjustment most preferably to receive a branch of daylight and be channeled to solar energy The target of receiver, the beam are formed together the compound beam being incident in target；

Sensor array, each sensor have multiple photoresponse pixels；

To the component across or by the compound beam scanning sensor array；And

To record the multiple figures respectively detected at array at the continuous position of array during the scanning The set of picture carrys out the light of multiple, preferably multiple heliostat of self-fields with across compound beam scanning array and by picture as a result, Element different respective subsets at record, and the subset be in the set of multiple images sufficiently it is recognizable, with allow Sensor array across or by the compound beam single sweep operation during carry out multiple heliostats while measure and/or prison Depending on.

Advantageously, the device of the third aspect of the present invention further includes a kind of controller, is configured to receive and storing The data of the different subsets of the pixel relative to the reference angular position for corresponding heliostat are stored in device, are then received simultaneously Record relative to the pixel simultaneously illuminated by corresponding heliostat respective subset more new data, by this more new data with The data of the reference angular position for heliostat in memory compare, and the difference in response to detecting in comparison step And export the Angle Position revise signal for being used for corresponding heliostat.

In fourth aspect, the present invention also provides a kind of solar energy collecting methods, comprising:

It receives from angle adjustment is mounted in the target defined by solar energy receiver most preferably to receive one The daylight of the heliostat guidance of the heliostat field of Shu Guang and the target for being channeled to solar energy receiver, the beam is together Form the compound beam being incident in target；

Across or by the compound beam scanning sensor array, each sensor is with multiple photoresponse pixels；And

During the scanning at the continuous position of the array record respectively detected at the array it is more The set of a image；

Wherein, as the array is remembered at the different respective subsets of the pixel of array across the compound beam scanning Record come from the multiple (preferably multiple) heliostat light, and the subset be sufficiently it is recognizable, with allow in sensor Array across or by the combination beam single sweep operation during optical characterisation while allow the multiple heliostat.

Sensor array is preferably linear sensor array.The array can be by means of the transverse direction before plane receiver Rotation or part circular are inswept or penetrated across compound around cylinder-shaped or part-cylindrical receiver cylindrical shape is inswept Beam.

In certain aspects of the invention, the subset of pixel in each subset preferably by not having pixel to be directed in light source More than one irradiation but sufficiently it is recognizable.

Each subset of pixel can be further overlapping with the adjacent subset of pixel (i.e. without in subset by not having The pixel that shares of any two or more) and can distinguish.

In embodiment, the spacing between each subset of pixel is at least one pixel.This spacing can be at least two A pixel or its can be three pixels or more.

At two aspects of the invention, each sensor is convenient to be such as discrete digital formula camera sensor array, The photodiode array that example is arranged with CCD or CMOS.The pixel of each sensor may include the subarray of pixel, for example, waiting Spacing square array.

The photoresponse pixel of each sensor each can preferably be responded to provide the measurement for the light being incident in pixel.Light The array of response pixel may include the photodiode array in such as charge-coupled device (CCD) or CMOS arrangement.

The sensor of array can be present in compound beam within the short time appropriate in scanning or inswept period, and can To deviate far from wherein the lower practical receiver of intensity, both of which make it easier to camera design at durable.

Claims (32)

1. a kind of for monitoring and/or measuring the device in multiple directed radiation sources, each radiation source regard radiation as limited solid The beam at angle and guide, comprising:

Measuring device, have by directed radiation source in angle mutual different ability；

To make measuring device at least 50% hit section above it across or by the beam from each radiation source and carry out First actuator of scanning；And

To during the scanning at the continuous position of measuring device record respectively detected at measuring device it is more The component of the set of a image；

Wherein, it is recorded at the different location of measuring device from described more as measuring device is scanned across the section The radiation in a directed radiation source, and the continuous position and the different location are abundant in the set of multiple images It is recognizable, with allow measuring device across or by the section single sweep operation during directed radiation source while measure And/or monitoring.

2. a kind of method for monitoring and/or measuring multiple directed radiation sources, each radiation source regard radiation as limited solid The beam at angle and guide, which comprises

(a) it hits to receive in section above it at least 50% of the beam from each radiation source and comes from multiple orientation spokes Penetrate the radiation in source；

(b) it is scanned measuring device across or by the section, which has directed radiation source in angle Mutual different ability；And

(c) during the scanning at the continuous position of measuring device record respectively detected at measuring device it is multiple The set of image；

Wherein, it is recorded at the different location of measuring device from multiple fixed as measuring device is scanned across the section Radiation to radiation source；And

The continuous position and the different location be in the set of multiple images sufficiently it is recognizable, with allow surveying Amount equipment across or by the section single sweep operation during monitor while be oriented radiation source and/or measurement.

3. the apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the measuring device includes sensor array, and each sensor has Multiple rdaiation response pixels, and at each position of array, record is from multiple at the different respective subsets of pixel The radiation in directed radiation source, and subset be in the set of described multiple images sufficiently it is recognizable, with allow in sensor Array across or by the section single sweep operation during directed radiation source while measure and/or monitoring.

4. the apparatus according to claim 1, wherein measuring device includes being configured to direct radiation onto one or more Tiltable reflection mirror array on sensor.

5. the apparatus according to claim 1, wherein measuring device includes single picture of associated computer control The array of plain camera.

6. device according to claim 3, wherein the subset is mutual exclusion.

7. device according to claim 3, wherein the shared one or more common pixels of the subset.

8. the apparatus according to claim 1, wherein by the way that sensor array to be installed to and can be incremented by by the first actuator The arm by compound beam is moved to realize the scanning of sensor array in ground.

9. device according to claim 8, wherein the arm substantially perpendicularly extends from receiver, and arm is passed It is substantially horizontal for increasing mobile direction.

10. according to claim 8 or device as claimed in claim 9, wherein the position of the arm is controlled by controller.

11. device according to claim 10, wherein the controller is further configured to control arm relative to receiver Speed.

12. device according to claim 8 or claim 9, wherein during first time period, the first actuator makes sensor array Column are scanned across or by the section, and during the second period, the first actuator makes arm remove the section Path.

13. device according to claim 3, wherein the sensor array is linear sensor array.

14. device according to claim 3, wherein the sensor array is two-dimensional sensor array.

15. the apparatus according to claim 1, including the second actuator are configured to selectively moved arm with more Close to or farther away from receiver.

16. according to the method described in claim 2, wherein, the measuring device includes sensor array, each sensing utensil There are multiple rdaiation response pixels, and at each position of array, record is from more at the different respective subsets of pixel The radiation in a directed radiation source, and subset be in the set of described multiple images sufficiently it is recognizable, with allow sensing Device array across or by the section single sweep operation during directed radiation source while measure and/or monitoring.

17. according to the method described in claim 2, wherein, measuring device includes being configured to direct radiation onto one or more Tiltable reflection mirror array on a sensor.

18. according to the method described in claim 2, wherein, measuring device includes the list of associated computer control The array of pixel camera.

19. according to the method for claim 16, wherein the subset is mutual exclusion.

20. according to the method for claim 16, wherein the shared one or more common pixels of the subset.

21. according to the method for claim 16, wherein by the first actuator make the sensor array across or pass through institute Section is stated to be scanned.

22. according to the method for claim 16, wherein by the way that sensor array to be installed to and can be passed by the first actuator Increase the mobile arm by compound beam in ground to realize the scanning of sensor array.

23. according to the method for claim 22, wherein the arm substantially perpendicularly extends from receiver, and arm It is substantially horizontal for being incremented by mobile direction.

24. according to method described in claim 22 or claim 23, wherein the position of the arm is controlled by controller.

25. according to the method for claim 24, wherein the controller is further configured to control arm relative to receiver Speed.

26. the method according to any one of claim 21 to 23, wherein during first time period, the first actuating Device is scanned sensor array across or by the section, and during the second period, the first actuator moves arm The path of the section out.

27. according to the method for claim 16, wherein the sensor array is linear sensor array.

28. according to the method for claim 16, wherein the sensor array is two-dimensional sensor array.

29. the method according to claim 11, including the second actuator, are configured to selectively moved arm with more Close to or farther away from receiver.

30. a kind of solar collecting device, comprising:

Solar energy receiver defines the target to receive guided solar radiation；

Heliostat field is mounted for angle adjustment, most preferably to receive solar radiation beam and be channeled to too The target of positive energy receiver, the solar radiation beam are formed together the compound beam being incident in target；And

Device according to claim 3, wherein the multiple directed radiation source includes the heliostat, and the area Section includes the region defined by the compound beam.

31. a kind of solar energy collecting method, comprising:

It receives in the target defined by solar energy receiver from angle adjustment is mounted for, most preferably to receive solar energy Beam of radiation and be channeled to solar energy receiver target heliostat field heliostat guidance solar radiation, it is described too Positive energy beam of radiation is formed together the compound beam being incident in target；

Measuring device is set at least 50% to hit section above it across or by the beam from each radiation source and swept Retouch, the measuring device have by directed radiation source in angle mutual different ability；

The multiple figures respectively detected at measuring device are recorded at the continuous position of measuring device during the scanning The set of picture,

Wherein, the multiple directed radiation source includes the heliostat, and the section includes being defined by the compound beam Region.

32. solar energy collecting method according to claim 31, further includes:

Receive and store in memory the number of the different subsets relative to pixel of the reference angular position for corresponding heliostat According to；

Then receive and record the update number of the respective subset relative to the pixel simultaneously irradiated by the multiple heliostat According to；And

The data of the reference position that is used for heliostat of the more new data in memory are compared, and in response to comparing step The difference that is detected in rapid and export the Angle Position revise signal for corresponding heliostat.