JP2016052191A - Solar cell module monitoring system - Google Patents

Abstract

PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To prevent an event in which generation power output abruptly reduces, while suppressing increase in costs.SOLUTION: A solar cell module monitoring system has a configuration including: an imaging device (15) that comprises an imaging lens and imaging element and images a surface of a solar cell module while adjusting the imaging lens's angle so that a subject surface constituted by the surface of the solar cell module, a lens surface of the imaging lens, and an image formation surface of the imaging element satisfy the Scheimpflug condition; and a monitoring device (16) for analyzing data on the solar cell module's surface image imaged by the imaging device to monitor abnormality of the solar cell module.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 1

Description

  The present invention relates to a solar cell module monitoring system that monitors an abnormality of a solar cell module used in a solar power generation system.

  In recent years, the introduction of feed-in tariffs that specify the purchase price (tariff) of energy by law has progressed worldwide. Along with this, solar power generation systems have begun to be introduced not only in companies but also in general households. In particular, a mega solar system in which a large number of solar cell modules are spread on a large site is beginning to spread. In this mega solar system, the photovoltaic power generation system, which was an auxiliary role, is expected to play a role in the core power generation and cover the local power.

  In the solar cell module constituting the solar power generation system, when the module surface is contaminated by bird droppings or the module surface is damaged due to collision of flying objects, the power generation output is reduced. As a method for detecting such an abnormality of the solar cell module, visual inspection, inspection of heat generation by a thermometer, and inspection of electrical characteristics by a tester are performed. In principle, these inspections are performed on a solar cell module basis. For this reason, when the number of solar cell modules increases, there exists a subject that the labor and cost which an inspection requires increase.

  For such a problem, a measurement unit and a communication unit are provided for each solar cell module, and the presence or absence of a malfunction in the solar cell module is determined by comparing the measurement result transmitted from the communication unit with a predetermined threshold value. A method has been proposed (see, for example, Patent Document 1). Further, in order to reduce the cost required for the measuring means, a method has been proposed in which the measuring means is connected to each solar cell string in which the solar cell modules are connected in series to determine the malfunction of the solar cell module (for example, a patent). Reference 2).

JP 2010-123880 A JP 2005-340464 A JP 2003-304437 A

  In patent documents 1 and 2 as mentioned above, the labor which measures each solar cell module can be reduced. However, a measuring unit and a communication unit must be provided for each solar cell module or each solar cell stream, and the cost increase has not yet been solved. In particular, in the mega solar system, a huge number of solar cell modules are incorporated, and the increase in cost becomes remarkable.

  On the other hand, the solar cell module is composed of a series circuit of cells. Generally, it is divided into a plurality of blocks for the purpose of suppressing the influence of partial shadows and defects in the module. A bypass diode is incorporated in each block to prevent current interruption. Due to the action of the bypass diode, the influence of a partial malfunction or the like of the solar cell module is absorbed. As a result, supply of stable power generation output from the solar cell module is ensured.

  However, in the case where a problem such as contamination or breakage occurs in a part of the solar cell module, if output reduction factors such as shadows and scattering of trees overlap, the power generation output is rapidly increased by the operation of multiple bypass diodes. May occur. In order to prevent the occurrence of such a situation, it is preferable to detect a partial malfunction of the solar cell module and perform maintenance.

  This invention is made | formed in view of such a situation, and provides the solar cell module monitoring system which can prevent the situation where power generation output falls rapidly, suppressing the increase in cost. With the goal.

  The solar cell module monitoring system according to the present invention includes an imaging device that images the surface of a solar cell module, and monitoring that monitors an abnormality of the solar cell module according to surface image data of the solar cell module captured by the imaging device. A solar cell module monitoring system, wherein the imaging device includes an imaging lens and an imaging element, a subject surface constituted by a surface of the solar cell module, a lens surface of the imaging lens, and the imaging An imaging unit that adjusts the angle of the imaging lens so that the imaging plane of the element satisfies the Shine Fluke condition, and a transmission unit that transmits surface image data of the solar cell module captured by the imaging unit to the monitoring device; And the monitoring device receives the surface image data of the solar cell module from the imaging device. , And having a abnormality determination unit of the solar cell module to analyze the surface image data of the solar cell module.

  According to the solar cell module monitoring system, the imaging device images the surface of the solar cell module with the angle of the imaging lens adjusted so as to satisfy the Shine Fluke condition. Thereby, since it can focus on the whole surface of a solar cell module, the surface of a solar cell module can be imaged clearly. Then, the monitoring device analyzes the clear surface image data of the solar cell module transmitted from the imaging device, and determines the abnormality of the solar cell module. For this reason, the abnormality which generate | occur | produced partially on the surface of the solar cell module can be determined, and the maintenance by an operator etc. can be promoted. As a result, it is possible to prevent a situation in which the power generation output is suddenly reduced in accordance with output reduction factors such as shadows and scattering of trees. Moreover, the surface image data of the solar cell module imaged by the imaging device and transmitted to the monitoring device is used for determining the abnormality of the solar cell module. For this reason, it is not necessary to provide a measuring means, a communication means, etc. for every solar cell module, and the cost which these require can be reduced. As a result, it is possible to prevent a sudden decrease in power generation output while suppressing an increase in cost.

  For example, in the solar cell module monitoring system, the imaging unit includes an angle of the subject plane and the imaging plane that is specified when the imaging device is arranged at a planned imaging position for imaging the solar cell module. The angle of the imaging lens is adjusted based on According to this configuration, it is possible to omit the control for detecting the angle of the subject surface and the imaging surface, which is a reference when adjusting the angle of the imaging lens. As a result, the angle of the imaging lens can be adjusted without requiring complicated control.

  In the solar cell module monitoring system, the imaging device moves the imaging device to the planned imaging position based on a position determination unit that determines a current position of the imaging device and a determination result of the position determination unit. It is preferable to have a moving part. According to this configuration, since the imaging apparatus is moved to the scheduled imaging position based on the determination result of the position determination unit, the imaging apparatus can be automatically arranged at the scheduled imaging position. Thereby, the operation | work which an operator moves an imaging device to an imaging scheduled position can be abbreviate | omitted, and it becomes possible to reduce the effort for test | inspecting a solar cell module.

  Furthermore, in the solar cell module monitoring system, it is preferable that the imaging unit images the surface of the solar cell module using infrared rays or ultraviolet rays. According to this configuration, it is possible to obtain surface image data that makes it easier to discriminate defects present on the surface of the solar cell module as compared with the case where the surface of the solar cell module is imaged using visible light rays. Thereby, it becomes possible to determine abnormality of a solar cell module effectively compared with the case where the light ray of a visible region is utilized.

  In particular, in the solar cell module monitoring system, it is preferable that the imaging unit images the surface of the solar cell module using visible light in addition to infrared light or ultraviolet light. According to this configuration, since the surface of the solar cell module is imaged using not only infrared rays or ultraviolet rays but also visible rays, the solar cell module is obtained from the surface image data of a plurality of types of solar cell modules. Can be determined. Thereby, it becomes possible to detect abnormality of a solar cell module more effectively compared with the case where each light beam is used independently.

  In the solar cell module monitoring system, the imaging unit collectively images the plurality of solar cell modules, and the transmission unit transmits surface image data including the plurality of solar cell modules to the monitoring device. It is preferable to do. According to this configuration, since the abnormality of the solar cell module is determined based on the surface image data including the plurality of solar cell modules in the monitoring device, the time required for determining the abnormality of the solar cell module can be reduced. Can do. This makes it possible to improve the efficiency of the monitoring process of the solar cell module in a mega solar system including a huge number of solar cell modules.

  Further, in the solar cell module monitoring system, the monitoring device includes a storage unit that stores comparison image data of a normal state of the solar cell module to be determined, and the determination unit includes the comparison image data and the comparison image data. It is preferable to determine the abnormality of the solar cell module by analyzing the difference from the surface image data of the solar cell module from the imaging device. According to this structure, since the difference with the comparison image data of the normal state of a solar cell module is analyzed, the abnormal location in the surface image data of the solar cell module from an imaging device can be detected appropriately. Thereby, it becomes possible to determine the abnormality of the solar cell module with high accuracy.

  Furthermore, in the solar cell module monitoring system, the imaging device includes a detection unit that detects a temperature distribution on a surface of the solar cell module, and the transmission unit receives the temperature distribution data detected by the detection unit. The information may be transmitted to a monitoring device, and the determination unit of the monitoring device may determine abnormality of the solar cell module according to the temperature distribution data received from the imaging device. According to this configuration, since the abnormality of the solar cell module is determined by the monitoring device according to the temperature distribution data received from the imaging device, the abnormality of the solar cell module that cannot be detected only from the surface image data of the solar cell module Can be determined. Thereby, it becomes possible to determine the abnormality of a solar cell module from many aspects.

  According to the present invention, it is possible to prevent a situation in which the power generation output suddenly decreases while suppressing an increase in cost.

It is a block diagram which shows the structure of the solar cell module monitoring system which concerns on this Embodiment. It is an enlarged view of the solar cell module applied to the solar cell module monitoring system according to the present embodiment. It is a schematic diagram which shows the positional relationship of the solar cell array and imaging device of the solar cell module monitoring system which concerns on this Embodiment. It is a functional block diagram of the imaging device which the solar cell module monitoring system which concerns on this Embodiment has. It is a functional block diagram of the monitoring apparatus which the solar cell module monitoring system which concerns on this Embodiment has. It is a schematic diagram of the comparison image data of the solar cell module which the monitoring apparatus of the solar cell module monitoring system which concerns on this Embodiment hold | maintains. It is a schematic diagram for demonstrating the imaging conditions at the time of imaging a several solar cell module with the imaging device of the solar cell module monitoring system which concerns on this Embodiment. It is a flowchart for demonstrating the monitoring operation | movement of the solar cell module in the solar cell module monitoring system which concerns on this Embodiment. It is a schematic diagram which shows an example of the captured image data of the solar cell module which the imaging device of the solar cell module monitoring system which concerns on this Embodiment imaged. It is a schematic diagram for demonstrating the principal part of the imaging device which concerns on the modification of this Embodiment. It is explanatory drawing of the transmission characteristic of the filter used with the imaging device which concerns on the modification of this Embodiment. It is a functional block diagram of the imaging device which concerns on the modification of this Embodiment.

  Hereinafter, embodiments of the present invention will be described in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings. The solar cell module monitoring system (hereinafter simply referred to as “monitoring system”) according to the present embodiment is suitably used for monitoring the solar cell module in a mega solar system, for example. Below, the case where the monitoring system which concerns on this Embodiment is applied to a mega solar system is demonstrated as an example. However, the target to which the monitoring system according to the present embodiment is applied is not limited to the mega solar system, and can be applied to a smaller-scale solar power generation system.

  FIG. 1 is a block diagram showing a configuration of a monitoring system 10 according to the present embodiment. In FIG. 1, only three solar cell arrays 11 to 13 are shown for convenience of explanation among many solar cell arrays constituting the mega solar system.

  As shown in FIG. 1, the monitoring system 10 according to the present embodiment includes a plurality of solar cell arrays 11 to 13, a power conditioner 14, an imaging device 15, and a monitoring device 16. In the monitoring system 10, the solar cells 11 to 13 installed in the site are imaged by the imaging device 15, and the captured image data is analyzed by the monitoring device 16, thereby forming the solar cells constituting the solar cell arrays 11 to 13. An abnormality of the module 20 is monitored.

  Each of the solar cell arrays 11 to 13 is configured as a solar cell array having a maximum output of 2250 W, for example, by connecting nine solar cell modules 20 having a maximum output of 250 W in series. The solar cell module 20 receives sunlight on the surface (module surface) and converts the sunlight energy into electric energy (direct current). In addition, these solar cell modules 20 can also be called a solar cell panel.

  The solar cell arrays 11 to 13 are arranged in a line in a site where the monitoring system 10 is provided. Moreover, in each solar cell array 11-13, the solar cell module 20 is arranged and arrange | positioned. FIG. 1 shows a case where three solar cell modules 20 arranged at regular intervals in the vertical direction shown in the figure are arranged in three rows in the horizontal direction in the figure. The positions of the solar cell modules 20 in the respective solar cell arrays 11 to 13 are in a state of being coincident with each other. The solar cell arrays 11 to 13 are connected to the power conditioner 14 via backflow prevention diodes (blocking diodes) 21 to 23, respectively.

  FIG. 2 is an enlarged view of the solar cell module 20 applied to the monitoring system 10 according to the present embodiment. As shown in FIG. 2, the solar cell module 20 includes a plurality of solar cells 201. The solar cells 201 in the solar cell module 20 are all electric circuits that are wired in series by soldering interconnectors. The solar cell module 20 is divided into a plurality of series circuit groups for the purpose of suppressing the influence of partial shadows and failures / failures in the solar cell module 20. In these series circuit groups, a bypass diode 202 is built in to bypass the series group whose power generation and relaying ability is reduced due to these shadows, failures, and malfunctions, and to pass current from other series groups. . In addition, the partial solar cell group divided | segmented by these bypass diodes 202 may be called the cluster 203. FIG.

  The power conditioner 14 controls the behavior of the solar cell arrays 11 to 13. In addition, the power conditioner 14 converts the DC power generated by the solar cell arrays 11 to 13 into AC power. For example, the power conditioner 14 is connected to a commercial power source or a load (not shown). In such a case, the electric power generated by the solar cell arrays 11 to 13 is consumed by a load or sold to a commercial power source.

  The imaging device 15 images the surface of the solar cell module 20 constituting the solar cell arrays 11 to 13 under the instruction of the monitoring device 16. When performing the imaging process, the imaging device 15 moves to a position where the solar cell arrays 11 to 13 (more specifically, all the solar cell modules 20 configuring the solar cell arrays 11 to 13) can be imaged. Then, the imaging device 15 transmits the captured image data of the surface of the solar cell module 20 (hereinafter referred to as “surface image data” as appropriate) to the monitoring device 16.

  The monitoring device 16 is connected to the power conditioner 14 and monitors the power generation amount of the entire solar power generation system by determining the power generation from the solar cell arrays 11 to 13. Further, the monitoring device 16 monitors the abnormality of the solar cell module 20 based on the surface image data of the solar cell module 20 imaged by the imaging device 15. The abnormality monitoring operation of the solar cell module 20 in the monitoring device 16 will be described later.

  Here, the positional relationship between the solar cell array 11 and the imaging device 15 in the monitoring system 10 will be described. FIG. 3 is a schematic diagram illustrating a positional relationship between the solar cell array 11 and the imaging device 15 of the monitoring system 100 according to the present embodiment. In FIG. 3, it has shown about the case where the solar cell array 11 is seen from the side. In addition, since the positional relationship of the imaging device 15 with respect to the solar cell arrays 12 and 13 is the same as the positional relationship with respect to the solar cell array 11, it is omitted.

  As shown in FIG. 3, the solar cell array 11 is installed, for example, on the upper surface of the gantry 30 that is inclined by 10 to 20 degrees from the horizontal plane. In this case, the solar cell module 20 constituting the solar cell array 11 is installed on the gantry 30 with the light receiving portion (surface) facing the direction in which sunlight is inserted.

  The imaging device 15 is arranged on the lower end side (the right end side shown in FIG. 3) of the gantry 30 and at a position separated from the gantry 30 by a certain distance. The imaging device 15 includes a main body 151, a support 152 that supports the main body 151, and a moving unit 153 that moves the main body 151 and the support 152. In the main body 151, a control unit 154, a communication unit 155, a position determination unit 156, and an imaging unit 157, which will be described later, are provided (see FIG. 4). The moving unit 153 includes, for example, a drive motor and wheels that can move the imaging device 15 in the front-rear and left-right directions. With such a configuration, the imaging device 15 is configured to be able to image the solar cell module 20 from the lower end side of the gantry 30 by the imaging unit 157 in the main body 151.

  Next, the configuration of the imaging device 15 and the monitoring device 16 included in the monitoring system 10 according to the present embodiment will be described. FIG. 4 is a functional block diagram of the imaging device 15 included in the monitoring system 10 according to the present embodiment. FIG. 5 is a functional block diagram of the monitoring device 16 included in the monitoring system 10 according to the present embodiment. 4 and 5, only the components related to the present invention are shown for convenience of explanation. 4, the same reference numerals are given to the same components as those in FIG. 3, and description thereof is omitted.

  As illustrated in FIG. 4, the imaging device 15 includes a control unit 154 that controls the entire imaging device 15. The control unit 154 is connected to a moving unit 153, a communication unit 155, a position determination unit 156, and an imaging unit 157. The moving unit 153 moves the imaging device 15 to a position where the solar cell module 20 can be imaged (imaging planned position to be described later) under the instruction of the control unit 154.

  The communication unit 155 wirelessly communicates information with the monitoring device 16. For example, the communication unit 155 receives a signal (imaging instruction signal) instructing imaging processing from the monitoring device 16, and transmits image data captured by the imaging unit 157 to the monitoring device 16. The communication unit 155 can perform information communication with the monitoring device 16 via the base station device using, for example, mobile communication technology. The communication unit 155 may perform information communication with the monitoring device 16 via an access point using a wireless LAN technology. In addition, this communication part 155 comprises the transmission part in a claim.

  The position determination unit 156 determines the current position of the imaging device 15. For example, the position determination unit 156 has a GPS (Global Positioning System) function, uses radio waves transmitted from an artificial satellite, and calculates the latitude, longitude, altitude, and the like of the imaging device 15 with a certain error (for example, an error of several centimeters). judge. Hereinafter, the case where the position determination unit 156 has a GPS function will be described. The determination result by the position determination unit 156 is used for control of the moving unit 153 by the control unit 154.

  The imaging unit 157 includes an imaging lens and an imaging element, and images the surface of the solar cell module 20 constituting the solar cell arrays 11 to 13. Here, the imaging part 157 images the surface of the nine solar cell modules 20 which comprise the solar cell arrays 11-13 collectively. For example, a CCD (Charge Coupled Device) image sensor or a CMOS (Complementary Metal Oxide Semiconductor) image sensor is used as the imaging device. For example, the imaging unit 157 images the solar cell module 20 using visible light (visible light). As will be described in detail later, the imaging unit 157 focuses on the entire surface of a plurality (9 in the present embodiment) of the solar cell modules 20 constituting the solar cell arrays 11 to 13 under a predetermined imaging condition. Take an image in the combined state. Note that imaging conditions in the imaging device 15 (imaging unit 157) in this case will be described later.

  The control unit 154 controls these components and moves the imaging device 15 to a position where the solar cell module 20 can capture an image under the instruction of the monitoring device 16. And the control part 154 images the surface of the solar cell module 20 which comprises the solar cell arrays 11-13. Furthermore, the control unit 154 transmits the captured surface image data of the solar cell module 20 to the monitoring device 16 via the communication unit 155.

  On the other hand, as shown in FIG. 5, the monitoring device 16 includes a control unit 161 that controls the entire monitoring device 16. A communication unit 162, a storage unit 163, and a display unit 164 are connected to the control unit 161.

  The communication unit 162 wirelessly communicates information with the imaging device 15. For example, the communication unit 162 transmits a signal (imaging instruction signal) instructing the imaging process to the imaging device 15, and receives the surface image data of the solar cell module 20 from the imaging device 15. Similar to the communication unit 155 of the imaging device 15, the communication unit 162 can perform information communication with the imaging device 15 using mobile communication technology, wireless LAN technology, or the like. In addition, this communication part 162 comprises the receiving part in a claim.

  The storage unit 163 holds comparison image data for comparison with the surface image data of the solar cell module 20 imaged by the imaging device 15. This comparison image data is composed of image data in a normal state of the solar cell module 20 to be determined as abnormal. For example, the memory | storage part 163 hold | maintains the surface image data which imaged the solar cell module 20 of the state before installation in a solar energy power generation system as comparison image data.

  FIG. 6 is a schematic diagram of comparison image data of the solar cell module 20 held by the monitoring device 16 of the monitoring system 10 according to the present embodiment. In FIG. 6, for convenience of explanation, the distance between the imaging device 15 and each solar cell module 20 is shown in a plan view without reflecting. The same applies to FIG.

  As shown in FIG. 6, the comparison image data is image data including nine solar cell modules 20, and is composed of image data in which defects such as contamination and breakage have not occurred on the surface of each solar cell module 20. Has been. Note that the number of solar cell modules 20 included in the comparison image data varies according to the number of solar cell modules 20 to be imaged.

  The display unit 164 displays various information in the monitoring device 16. For example, the display unit 164 displays the amount of power generation in the solar power generation system and the malfunction that has occurred in the entire system. The display unit 164 displays the determination result of the abnormality of the surface of the solar cell module 20 based on the difference analysis between the surface image data of the solar cell module 20 from the imaging device 15 and the comparison image data.

  The control unit 161 controls these components and instructs the imaging device 15 to image the solar cell module 20 via the communication unit 162, while receiving the surface image data of the solar cell module 20 from the imaging device 15. To do. Then, the control unit 161 analyzes the difference between the received surface image data of the solar cell module 20 and the comparison image data held in the storage unit 163, and determines the presence or absence of a defect that has occurred on the surface of the solar cell module 20. To do. Further, the control unit 161 causes the display unit 164 to display the determination result of the surface of the solar cell module 20. The control unit 161 constitutes a determination unit in the claims.

  Here, imaging conditions in the imaging device 15 when imaging a plurality of solar cell modules 20 will be described. FIG. 7 is a schematic diagram for explaining imaging conditions when imaging a plurality of solar cell modules 20 with the imaging device 15 of the monitoring system 10 according to the present embodiment. Note that FIG. 7 shows a case where the imaging unit 157 of the imaging device 15 includes an imaging lens 157a and an imaging element 157b as its constituent elements. Further, FIG. 7 shows a case where the imaging device 15 is arranged at a predetermined position (imaging scheduled position) for imaging the solar cell module 20.

  As shown in FIG. 7, in the imaging unit 157, the imaging lens 157a is supported by the main body 151 so as to be tiltable about a straight line passing through the lens center C (see FIG. 3). For this reason, the angle of the lens surface LP of the imaging lens 157a changes with a straight line passing through the lens center C as an axis. On the other hand, the image sensor 157b is fixed to the main body 151. For this reason, the angle of the imaging plane IP of the image sensor 157b does not change. Further, the solar cell modules 20 constituting the solar cell arrays 11 to 13 are fixed to the upper surface of the gantry 30. For this reason, the angle of the surface of the solar cell module 20 that is the subject surface SP does not change. Note that the distance a between the center C of the imaging lens 157a and the imaging element 157a is configured to be finely adjustable. In the initial state before the angle of the imaging lens 157a is adjusted, the lens surface LP is arranged in parallel with the imaging surface IP. In FIG. 7, the lens surface in the initial state is indicated as “LP ′”.

  In the imaging unit 157, in order to focus on the entire surface of the solar cell module 20 that is gently inclined, the surface of the solar cell module 20 that is the subject surface SP, the lens surface LP of the imaging lens 157a, and the imaging surface of the imaging element 157b. The angle of the imaging lens 157a is adjusted so that the IP satisfies the condition of Scheimpflug. Here, when the image plane IP and the lens surface LP intersect with one straight line, the Shine Fluke condition is that the subject plane SP also intersects with the same straight line in order to focus on the subject plane SP. Indicates that it is necessary. The conditions for this Shine fluke are based on the Scheimpflug principle.

  FIG. 7 shows a case where the imaging surface IP, the lens surface LP, and the subject surface SP intersect with a straight line SL extending perpendicularly to the paper surface. As described above, when the imaging plane IP, the lens plane LP, and the subject plane SP satisfy the Shine Fluke condition, the subject plane SP is not parallel to the lens plane LP, and thus the solar cell module 20 located at a short distance from the imaging device 15. In addition, the solar cell module 20 at a long distance can be focused at the same time.

  Here, a method of adjusting the angle of the imaging lens 157a in the imaging unit 157 of the imaging device 15 according to the present embodiment will be described with reference to FIGS. 1, 3, and 7. FIG. In the following, for convenience of explanation, it is assumed that the imaging target by the imaging unit 157 is a plurality of solar cell modules 20 included in the solar cell array 11.

  When imaging a plurality of solar cell modules 20 included in the solar cell array 11, the imaging device 15 first specifies a current position by the position determination unit 156 and also takes an imaging planned position for imaging the solar cell module 20. Is identified. Then, the moving unit 153 moves from the current position to the scheduled imaging position. Note that the scheduled imaging position is specified by, for example, an imaging instruction signal transmitted from the monitoring device 16.

  For example, as the imaging scheduled position, the center C of the imaging lens 157a of the imaging unit 157 is the center of the solar cell array 11 (more specifically, the center of the solar cell modules 20 in the central row included in the solar cell array 11). And a position that is separated from the lower end of the gantry 30 by a certain distance. Note that the scheduled imaging position is not limited to this, and can be changed as appropriate.

  As described above, the angle of the lens surface LP of the imaging lens 157a changes with a straight line passing through the lens center C as an axis. On the other hand, the angle of the image plane IP of the image sensor 157b does not change. Further, the angle of the surface of the solar cell module 20 that is the subject surface SP does not change. Therefore, when the imaging position is located, the angles of the imaging plane IP and the subject plane SP of the imaging element 157b are specified. Further, the relative positional relationship between the imaging plane IP and the subject plane SP and the center C of the imaging lens 15a is also specified. In the imaging device 15 according to the present embodiment, the angle of the imaging lens 157a is adjusted using the information specified in this way.

  When the angles of the imaging plane IP and the subject plane SP can be specified in this way, the position of the intersection line SL obtained from the Shine Fluke conditions can be estimated from these angles. When this intersection line SL is estimated, the distance Ih between the intersection line SL and the center IC of the image sensor 157b can be obtained by calculation.

Further, the distance a between the imaging element 157b and the center C of the imaging lens 157a can be obtained by actual measurement or calculation using a simulation device of the imaging device 15. SP1 on the subject surface SP indicates a temporary target point that is in focus in a state where the imaging surface IP and the lens surface LP ′ are arranged in parallel. The distance b between the center C of the imaging lens 157a and the SP1 and the above-described distance a are used when obtaining the focal length (f). The focal length (f) is obtained by the following (formula 1: lens formula).
(Formula 1)
1 / f = 1 / a + 1 / b

  Further, the distance Lh ′ from the center C of the imaging lens 157a on the lens surface LP ′ in the initial state to the plane SLP orthogonal to the imaging plane IP and including the intersection line SL is the positional relationship between the imaging lens 157a and the imaging element 157b. Can be obtained from Further, the distance Lh between the intersection line SL and the center C of the imaging lens 157a can be obtained by calculation.

The angle α of the imaging lens 157a that satisfies the Shine Fluke condition is expressed as follows using the distance Lh from the center C of the imaging lens 157a to the straight line SL and the distance Lh ′ from the center C of the imaging lens 157a to the plane SLP. (Equation 2).
(Formula 2)
α = arccos Lh ′ / Lh

  In the imaging unit 157, the angle of the imaging lens 157a is adjusted by the angle α thus obtained. Accordingly, the angle of the imaging lens 157a is adjusted so that the subject surface SP, the lens surface LP, and the imaging surface IP satisfy the Shine Fluke condition. Thereby, it can focus on all the solar cell modules 20 arrange | positioned on the to-be-photographed surface SP. As a result, it is possible to capture clear surface image data in all the solar cell modules 20.

  Further, when capturing clearer surface image data, after adjusting the angle of the imaging lens 157a in the manner described above, control is performed to focus on an arbitrary point on the subject surface SP. In this case, it is possible to focus on the surfaces of the plurality of solar modules 20 with high accuracy only by focusing on an arbitrary point on the subject surface SP.

  Here, a general method for adjusting the angle of the imaging lens when imaging a plurality of solar cell modules 20 using an imaging apparatus to which the Shine Fluke principle is applied will be described. In the following, it is assumed that the states of the imaging lens and the imaging element in the imaging unit are the same as those in the present embodiment. That is, the imaging lens is supported so as to be tiltable about a straight line passing through the center of the lens, while the imaging element is fixed. In the initial state before adjusting the angle of the imaging lens, the lens surface LP and the imaging surface IP are set in parallel.

  In such an image pickup apparatus, when starting the image pickup process, first, the position of the image pickup lens with respect to the image pickup element is focused so that a point close to the image pickup apparatus on the subject plane SP (the surface of the solar cell module) is in focus. adjust. After adjusting the position of the imaging lens, the angle of the imaging lens is adjusted so that a point far from the imaging device on the subject plane SP (the surface of the solar cell module) is focused. During this angle adjustment, the distance between the imaging element and the imaging lens (in other words, the distance between the lens surface LP and the imaging surface IP) slightly shifts with the shift of the optical axis. For this reason, the position of the imaging lens with respect to the imaging device is adjusted again. However, since the relationship between the imaging plane IP and the lens surface LP changes due to the position adjustment of the imaging lens, the angle of the imaging lens is adjusted again. By repeating such an operation, the angle of the imaging lens is adjusted to an optimum angle for imaging a plurality of solar cell modules.

  As described above, in a general imaging lens angle adjustment method, the imaging lens position adjustment with respect to the imaging device and the imaging lens angle adjustment are repeated to adjust the imaging lens angle to be optimal for imaging of a plurality of solar cell modules. To do. On the other hand, in the angle adjustment method of the imaging lens 157a in the imaging device 15 according to the present embodiment, the information (more specifically, the subject plane SP and the subject surface SP) is specified by arranging the imaging device 15 at the scheduled imaging position. The angle of the imaging plane IP) is used. Thereby, it is possible to omit the control for detecting the angles of the subject plane SP and the imaging plane IP, which are the reference when adjusting the angle of the imaging lens 157a. Since the angle of the imaging lens 157a is adjusted based on the angles of the subject plane SP and the imaging plane IP, it is possible to avoid the above-described position adjustment and angle adjustment of the imaging lens. Thereby, the angle of the imaging lens 157a can be adjusted without requiring complicated control.

  Next, the monitoring operation of the solar cell module 20 in the monitoring system 10 according to the present embodiment will be described. FIG. 8 is a flowchart for explaining the monitoring operation of solar cell module 20 in monitoring system 10 according to the present embodiment. In addition, the monitoring operation | movement of the solar cell module 20 in the monitoring system 10 which concerns on this Embodiment is performed when the electric power generation amount in a solar power generation system falls below a predetermined value, for example. In addition, about the execution conditions of the monitoring operation | movement of the solar cell module 20, it is not limited to this, It can change suitably.

  When an event serving as a condition for executing the monitoring operation of the solar cell module 20 occurs, the monitoring device 16 instructs the imaging device 15 to perform imaging processing of the surface of the solar cell module 20 (step (hereinafter referred to as “ST”). 701). In this case, the control unit 161 outputs a signal (imaging instruction signal) instructing imaging processing to the imaging device 15 via the communication unit 162. In this imaging instruction signal, position information (longitude / latitude information) indicating a planned imaging position by the imaging device 15 is specified.

  When receiving this imaging instruction signal, imaging apparatus 15 moves to the planned imaging position in accordance with the position information indicating the imaging position specified by the imaging instruction signal (ST702). In this case, the imaging device 15 acquires the current position information by the position determination unit 156 and determines a difference from the position information indicating the planned imaging position. The control unit 154 controls the moving unit 153 according to the determination result of the position determining unit 156 to move the imaging device 15 to the planned imaging position.

  As described above, in the monitoring system 10 according to the present embodiment, since the imaging device 15 is moved to the planned imaging position based on the determination result of the position determination unit 156, the imaging device 15 is automatically placed at the planned imaging position. Can be arranged. Thereby, the operation | work which an operator moves the imaging device 15 to an imaging scheduled position can be abbreviate | omitted, and the effort for test | inspecting the solar cell module 20 can be reduced.

  When the imaging scheduled position is reached, the imaging device 15 performs angle adjustment processing of the imaging lens 157a (ST703). In this case, the control unit 154 instructs the imaging unit 157 to adjust the angle of the imaging lens 157a. In response to this instruction, the imaging unit 157 performs angle adjustment processing of the imaging lens 157a. As described above, the imaging unit 157 uses the angles of the subject plane SP and the imaging plane IP specified by being arranged at the planned imaging position to determine the subject plane SP, the lens plane LP, and the imaging plane IP. The angle of the imaging lens 157a is adjusted so as to satisfy the Shine Fluke condition. By this angle adjustment processing, the surfaces of all the solar cell modules 20 constituting the solar cell array 11 are brought into focus.

  Next, the imaging device 15 performs the imaging process of the solar cell module 20 (ST704). In this case, the control unit 154 instructs the imaging unit 157 to image the solar cell module 20. In this imaging process, imaging is performed with the focus adjusted by the angle adjustment process described above. For this reason, the surface of all the solar cell modules 20 constituting the solar cell array 11 can be clearly imaged.

  Here, it is assumed that the solar cell module 20 in which defects of contamination and damage are present on the module surface has been imaged by this imaging process. FIG. 9 is a schematic diagram illustrating an example of surface image data of the solar cell module 20 captured by the imaging device 15 of the monitoring system 10 according to the present embodiment. The surface image data shown in FIG. 9 shows a case where the solar cell modules 20a and 20b including a damaged portion and the solar cell module 20c including a contaminated portion such as bird droppings are included.

  When the imaging process is completed, imaging device 15 transmits the surface image data to monitoring device 16 (ST705). In this case, the control unit 154 transmits the surface image data captured by the imaging unit 157 to the monitoring device 16 via the communication unit 155. Here, it is assumed that the surface image data of the solar cell module 20 illustrated in FIG. 9 is transmitted to the monitoring device 16.

  When the surface image data is received, monitoring device 16 performs a process for determining an abnormality of solar cell module 20 (an abnormality determination process) (ST706). In this case, the control unit 161 performs a difference analysis between the surface image data from the imaging device 15 and the comparison image data held in the storage unit 163, and determines the abnormality of the solar cell module 20. Here, a difference analysis between the surface image data shown in FIG. 9 and the comparison image data shown in FIG. 6 is performed. Thereby, the solar cell modules 20a and 20b including the damaged portion and the solar cell module 20c including the contaminated portion are determined as the solar cell module 20 having an abnormality.

  And the monitoring apparatus 16 displays the determination result of this abnormality determination process on the display part 164 (ST707). In this case, the control unit 161 displays identification information of the solar cell module 20 having a defect on the module surface on the display unit 164. For example, an identification number assigned to the solar cell module 20 in advance or position information of the solar cell module 20 can be displayed. Moreover, while displaying the some solar cell array 11-13, the solar cell module 20a-20c which the malfunction generate | occur | produced can also be displayed blinking.

  As described above, in the monitoring system 10 according to the present embodiment, the imaging device 15 images the surface of the solar cell module 20 with the angle of the imaging lens 157a adjusted so as to satisfy the Shine Fluke condition. . Thereby, since it can focus on the whole surface of the solar cell module 20, the surface of the solar cell module 20 can be imaged clearly. Then, the monitoring device 16 analyzes the clear surface image data of the solar cell module 20 transmitted from the imaging device 15, and determines the abnormality of the solar cell module 20. For this reason, the abnormality which generate | occur | produced partially on the surface of the solar cell module 20 can be determined, and the maintenance by an operator etc. can be promoted. As a result, it is possible to prevent a situation in which the power generation output is suddenly reduced in accordance with output reduction factors such as shadows and scattering of trees. Moreover, the surface image data of the solar cell module 20 captured by the imaging device 15 and transmitted to the monitoring device 16 is used to determine the abnormality of the solar cell module 20. For this reason, it is not necessary to provide a measurement means, a communication means, etc. for every solar cell module 20, and the cost required for these can be reduced. As a result, it is possible to prevent a sudden decrease in power generation output while suppressing an increase in cost.

  In particular, in the monitoring system 10 according to the present embodiment, the imaging device 15 arranged at a position separated from the solar cell module 20 is used, and the imaging section 157 of the imaging device 15 satisfies the Shine Fluke condition. The surface of the solar cell module 20 is imaged in a state where the angle of the imaging lens 157a is adjusted. In a general imaging device in which the lens surface LP of the imaging lens and the imaging surface of the imaging element are arranged in parallel, it is necessary to arrange in the upper region of the solar cell module 20 installed with a gentle inclination. . Therefore, such an imaging device may fall on the surface of the solar module 20. On the other hand, since the imaging device 15 according to the present embodiment is arranged at a position separated from the solar cell module 20, it is possible to prevent a situation where the imaging device 15 falls on the surface of the solar cell module 20.

  Moreover, the monitoring device 16 analyzes the clear surface image data of the solar cell module 20 transmitted from the imaging device 15, and determines the abnormality of the solar cell module 20. For this reason, the peeling phenomenon of the oxide film of the solar cell module 20 that is difficult to detect by visual inspection, inspection of heat generation by a thermometer, inspection of electrical characteristics by a tester, or the like can be detected. Thereby, the fall of the power generation output resulting from the peeling phenomenon of the oxide film of the solar cell module 20 can be prevented beforehand.

  In the monitoring system 10 according to the present embodiment, the imaging device 15 collectively images the plurality of solar cell modules 20, and the monitoring device 16 is based on surface image data including the plurality of solar cell modules 20. The abnormality of the solar cell module 20 is determined. Thereby, the time required for determination of abnormality of the solar cell module 20 can be shortened. As a result, it becomes possible to improve the efficiency of the monitoring process of the solar cell module 20 in a mega solar system including a huge number of solar cell modules 20.

  Further, in the monitoring system 10 according to the present embodiment, the monitoring device 16 analyzes the difference from the comparison image data in the normal state of the solar cell module 20 to be determined. An abnormal part in the surface image data of the solar cell module 20 can be detected appropriately. Thereby, the abnormality of the solar cell module 20 can be determined with high accuracy.

  In addition, in the imaging device 15 which concerns on the said embodiment, the case where the some solar cell module 20 is imaged using visible light is demonstrated. However, for the purpose of improving the accuracy of determining the abnormality of the surface of the solar cell module 20, the solar cell module 20 is made using light rays having a wavelength other than visible light (for example, infrared rays and ultraviolet rays). Imaging is preferable as an embodiment. In this case, surface image data is obtained that makes it easier to identify defects (breakage or contamination) that have occurred on the surface of the solar cell module 20 as compared with the case where the surface of the solar cell module 20 is imaged using visible light. be able to. As a result, it is possible to determine the abnormality of the solar cell module more effectively than in the case of using visible light.

  Moreover, in the imaging device 15 which concerns on the said embodiment, the case where the some solar cell module 20 is imaged on the assumption that the single imaging lens 157a and the image pick-up element 157b are provided is demonstrated. However, it is preferable as an embodiment to include a plurality of imaging lenses and imaging elements for the purpose of improving the accuracy of determining the abnormality of the surface of the solar cell module 20. In particular, when a plurality of imaging lenses and imaging elements are provided, it is preferable as an embodiment to use light beams having different wavelengths (for example, wavelengths in the visible region and wavelengths in the infrared region). In this case, it is possible to detect the abnormality of the solar cell module 20 more effectively than in the case where the light beams of the respective wavelengths are used alone.

  Hereinafter, modified examples of the imaging device 15 of the monitoring system 10 according to the present embodiment will be described. FIG. 10 is a schematic diagram for explaining a main part of an imaging apparatus according to a modification. In FIG. 10, only a portion corresponding to the main body 151 of the imaging device 15 according to the above embodiment is shown.

  As illustrated in FIG. 10, the main body 251 of the imaging device 25 according to the modification includes two imaging lenses 252 (252 a and 252 b) and two imaging elements 253 (253 a) in a casing constituting the main body 251. 253b). The housing constituting the main body 251 has a configuration divided in the optical axis direction of the imaging lens 252. These cases are connected via a bellows part 254 that expands and contracts when the position of the imaging lens 252 is adjusted with respect to the imaging element 253.

  The imaging lenses 252a and 252b are arranged side by side in the main body 251 with the optical axes in parallel. The imaging elements 253a and 253b are arranged side by side at positions corresponding to the imaging lenses 252a and 252b, respectively. The imaging lenses 252a and 252b are supported by the main body 251 so as to be tiltable about a straight line T passing through the centers of these lenses. The imaging lenses 252a and 252b are configured to be tiltable at the same angle about the straight line T. On the other hand, the image sensors 253 a and 253 b are fixed in the main body 251.

  As with the imaging lens 157a according to the above-described embodiment, the imaging lenses 252a and 252b have the subject surface SP configured on the lens surface LP, the imaging surface IP of the imaging elements 253a and 253b, and the surface of the solar cell module 20. The angle is configured to be adjustable so as to satisfy the Shine Fluke condition (see FIG. 7). For this reason, in this imaging device 25, both the imaging lenses 252a and 252b can simultaneously focus on the solar cell module 20 at a short distance and the solar cell module 20 at a long distance from the imaging device 25.

  In the imaging device 25, the imaging lens 252a and the imaging element 253a are configured to be capable of imaging the solar cell module 20 using visible light, similarly to the imaging lens 157a and the imaging element 157b of the above embodiment. For example, the solar cell module 20 can be imaged using visible light by attaching a filter that transmits visible light to the front surface of the imaging element 253a and cuts light in the infrared region and ultraviolet region.

  On the other hand, the imaging lens 252b and the imaging element 253b are configured to be capable of imaging the solar cell module 20 using infrared rays. For example, the solar cell module 20 can be imaged using infrared rays by attaching a filter that absorbs visible light and transmits only light having a long wavelength in the near infrared region on the front surface of the image sensor 253b. it can.

  In general, light rays in the infrared region are unlikely to scatter (Rayleigh scattering or Mie scattering). For this reason, the surface image data imaged by the imaging lens 252b and the imaging element 253b has a darker background than normal image data. Therefore, by configuring the imaging lens 252b and the imaging element 253b so as to be able to capture an image using infrared rays, a damaged portion existing on the surface of the solar cell module 20 can be clearly raised. As a result, it is possible to effectively determine the solar cell module 20 in which a damaged portion exists on the module surface.

  Further, the imaging lens 252b and the imaging element 253b may be configured to be capable of imaging the solar cell module 20 using ultraviolet rays. For example, the solar cell module 20 can be imaged using ultraviolet rays by attaching a filter that absorbs visible light and transmits only ultraviolet rays having a short wavelength in front of the imaging element 253b. .

  In general, it is known that imaging using light in the ultraviolet region is effective in recognizing dust on a glass substrate. The surface of the solar cell module is covered with a glass layer, so that dust easily adheres to the surface breaks and scratches, which is effective in recognizing the breakage and scratches with ultraviolet rays. Therefore, by configuring the imaging lens 252b and the imaging element 253b so as to be able to capture images using ultraviolet rays, changes in the way of light caused by defects (damaged parts or contaminated parts) on the surface of the solar cell module 20 can be achieved. Can be determined. As a result, the solar cell module 20 in which a defect has occurred on the module surface can be easily distinguished effectively.

  Furthermore, the imaging lens 252b and the imaging element 253b may be configured to be capable of imaging the solar cell module 20 using an infrared region and an ultraviolet region. For example, the solar cell module 20 is imaged by using infrared rays and ultraviolet rays by attaching a filter that absorbs visible light and transmits only infrared rays and ultraviolet rays in front of the imaging element 253b. be able to.

  FIG. 11 is an explanatory diagram of the transmission characteristics of the filter used when imaging the solar cell module 20 using the infrared region and the ultraviolet region. As shown in FIG. 11, this filter has a characteristic of absorbing visible light (about 420 nm to 720 nm) and transmitting only light in the ultraviolet region (about 200 nm to 380 nm) and the infrared region (about 780 nm). By mounting a filter having such characteristics on the front surface of the image sensor 253b, it is possible to absorb visible light and transmit only infrared rays and ultraviolet rays.

  In the imaging device 25 modified in this way, the surface of the solar cell module 20 is imaged using infrared rays and / or ultraviolet rays, and the surface of the solar cell module 20 is imaged using visible light. be able to. Thereby, the abnormality of the solar cell module 20 can be determined from the surface image data of the plural types of solar cell modules 20. For this reason, it becomes possible to detect the abnormality of the solar cell module 20 more effectively than in the case where the light beams of the respective wavelengths are used alone.

  Further, in the monitoring system 10 according to the above-described embodiment, the imaging device 15 images the surface of the solar cell module 20 using visible light (infrared ray or ultraviolet ray), and the monitoring device 16 performs surface imaging. The case where the abnormality of the solar cell module 20 is determined by analyzing the image data is described. On the other hand, in the solar cell module 20, a hot spot that locally becomes high due to a failure of a cell in the module or a decrease in performance may appear.

  Such a hot spot may or may not be detected on the surface of the solar cell module 20. The former can be detected by determination based on surface image data of the solar cell module 20 in the monitoring system 10 according to the above embodiment. On the other hand, the latter cannot be directly detected by the determination based on the surface image data of the solar cell module 20 in the monitoring system 10 according to the above embodiment.

  When such a hot spot occurs, the power generation output suddenly increases when output reduction factors such as shadows and scattering of trees overlap, as well as problems such as contamination and breakage that occur in a part of the solar cell module. A deteriorating situation can occur. In order to prevent such a situation from occurring, it is preferable to detect hot spots generated in the solar cell module and perform maintenance.

  Hereinafter, an imaging apparatus according to a modified example capable of detecting such a hot spot will be described. FIG. 12 is a functional block diagram of an imaging apparatus according to a modification of the present embodiment. In FIG. 12, the same components as those in FIG. 4 are denoted by the same reference numerals, and the description thereof is omitted. As illustrated in FIG. 12, the imaging device 35 according to the modification is different from the imaging device 15 illustrated in FIG. 4 in that a detection unit 158 is connected to the control unit 154.

  The detector 158 detects the temperature distribution on the surface of the solar cell module 20. For example, the detection part 158 detects the infrared radiation energy which has come out from the surface of the solar cell module 20 which is a detection target. The temperature distribution data detected by the detection unit 158 is transmitted to the monitoring device 16 via the communication unit 155. And in the monitoring apparatus 16, it utilizes for the abnormality determination process of the solar cell module 20. FIG.

  In such an imaging apparatus 35, the temperature distribution detection process is performed at the same timing as the imaging process (see FIG. 8: ST704) in the imaging apparatus 15 (25) according to the above embodiment. In this temperature distribution detection process, the temperature distribution on the surface of the solar cell module 20 is detected. When this temperature distribution detection process is completed, the imaging device 15 transmits temperature distribution data to the monitoring device 16. For example, the temperature distribution data can be transmitted simultaneously with the surface image data imaged by the imaging unit 157.

  When the temperature distribution data is received, the monitoring device 16 performs a process for determining an abnormality of the solar cell module 20 (an abnormality determination process). In this case, the control part 161 determines the presence or absence of the location (hot spot) where the temperature rises locally in the solar cell module 20 from temperature distribution data. This abnormality determination process is preferably performed in parallel with the abnormality determination process using the surface image data shown in FIG. 8 (ST706).

  Then, the monitoring device 16 displays the determination result of the abnormality determination process on the display unit 164. This determination result is preferably displayed so as to overlap with the determination result using the surface image data shown in FIG. 8 (ST707). In this case, it is possible to collectively display a contaminated part or a damaged part in the solar cell module 20 and a hot spot occurrence part. Thereby, the solar cell module 20 which needs a maintenance can be specified easily.

  As described above, in the monitoring system 10 including the imaging device 35 according to the modification, the monitoring device 16 determines abnormality of the solar cell module 20 according to the temperature distribution data received from the imaging device 35. For this reason, abnormality (for example, hot spot) of the solar cell module 20 which cannot be detected only from the surface image data of the solar cell module 20 can be determined. As a result, it is possible to determine the abnormality occurring in the solar cell module 20 from multiple aspects.

  In addition, this invention is not limited to the said embodiment, It can implement variously. In the above-described embodiment, the size, shape, and the like illustrated in the accompanying drawings are not limited thereto, and can be appropriately changed within a range in which the effect of the present invention is exhibited. In addition, various modifications can be made without departing from the scope of the object of the present invention.

  For example, in the above embodiment, a case has been described in which the imaging device 15 specifies the current position with the position determination unit 156 and automatically moves to the planned imaging position with the moving unit 153 based on the determination result. However, the movement of the imaging device 15 with respect to the scheduled imaging position is not limited to the automatic movement, and the operator may manually move the imaging device 15 to the scheduled imaging position. As described above, when the operator manually moves the imaging device 15 to the planned imaging position, although the operation of moving the imaging device 15 occurs, the power generation output is suddenly reduced while the increase in cost is suppressed. It is possible to obtain the effect of the above-described embodiment of preventing it.

  Further, in the above embodiment, a case has been described in which the position determination unit 156 of the imaging device 15 has a GPS function and moves to an imaging planned position using radio waves transmitted from an artificial satellite. However, the movement of the imaging device 15 with respect to the planned imaging position is not limited to using such a GPS function. For example, a self-propelled identification line or identification marker of the imaging device 15 is embedded in the site where the solar cell arrays 11 to 13 are installed, and the imaging device 15 reads the identification line or the identification marker so as to capture an image. You may make it move to a position.

  Further, in the above-described embodiment, the imaging device 15 images the surface of the solar cell module 20 at a single scheduled imaging position, and the monitoring device 16 performs comparison image data corresponding to the surface image data of the solar cell module 20. The case where the abnormality of the solar cell module 20 is determined by analyzing the difference is described. However, the number of scheduled imaging positions captured by the imaging device 15 is not limited to this, and a plurality of positions may be provided for the same solar cell module 20. In this case, since the solar cell module 20 can be imaged from a plurality of angles, the abnormality of the solar cell module 20 can be determined with higher accuracy. In this case, it is necessary for the monitoring device 16 to store comparison image data corresponding to the number of planned imaging positions and to analyze the difference between them.

10 Solar cell module monitoring system (monitoring system)
11 to 13 Solar cell array 14 Power conditioner 15, 25, 35 Imaging device 151, 251 Main unit 152 Strut 153 Moving unit 154 Control unit 155 Communication unit 156 Position determining unit 157 Imaging unit 157a Imaging lens 157b Imaging element 158 Detection unit DESCRIPTION OF SYMBOLS 16 Monitoring apparatus 161 Control part 162 Communication part 163 Memory | storage part 164 Display part 20, 20a-20c Solar cell module 201 Solar cell 202 Bypass diode 21-23 Backflow prevention diode (blocking diode)
25 imaging device 251 main body 252a, 252b imaging lens 253a, 253b imaging element 254 bellows 30 mount

Claims (8)

A solar cell module monitoring system comprising: an imaging device that images the surface of a solar cell module; and a monitoring device that monitors an abnormality of the solar cell module according to surface image data of the solar cell module captured by the imaging device. Because
The imaging device includes an imaging lens and an imaging device, and the subject surface configured by the surface of the solar cell module, the lens surface of the imaging lens, and the imaging surface of the imaging device satisfy the Shine Fluke condition. An imaging unit that adjusts the angle of the imaging lens; and a transmission unit that transmits surface image data of the solar cell module captured by the imaging unit to the monitoring device;
The monitoring device includes a receiving unit that receives surface image data of the solar cell module from the imaging device, and a determination unit that analyzes the surface image data of the solar cell module and determines abnormality of the solar cell module. A solar cell module monitoring system.   The imaging unit adjusts an angle of the imaging lens based on an angle of the subject plane and the imaging plane specified by the imaging device being arranged at a planned imaging position for imaging the solar cell module. The solar cell module monitoring system according to claim 1.   The imaging device includes a position determination unit that determines a current position of the imaging device, and a moving unit that moves the imaging device to the planned imaging position based on a determination result of the position determination unit. The solar cell module monitoring system according to claim 2.   2. The solar cell module monitoring system according to claim 1, wherein the imaging unit images the surface of the solar cell module using light in an infrared region or an ultraviolet region.   5. The solar cell module monitoring system according to claim 4, wherein the imaging unit images the surface of the solar cell module using visible light in addition to infrared light or ultraviolet light.   2. The imaging unit collectively images a plurality of the solar cell modules, and the transmission unit transmits surface image data including the plurality of solar cell modules to the monitoring device. Solar cell module monitoring system.   The monitoring device includes a storage unit that stores comparison image data in a normal state of the solar cell module to be determined, and the determination unit includes the comparison image data and the surface of the solar cell module from the imaging device. The solar cell module monitoring system according to claim 1, wherein an abnormality of the solar cell module is determined by analyzing a difference from the image data. The imaging device has a detection unit that detects a temperature distribution on the surface of the solar cell module, and the transmission unit transmits temperature distribution data detected by the detection unit to the monitoring device,
The solar cell module monitoring system according to claim 1, wherein the determination unit of the monitoring device determines an abnormality of the solar cell module according to the temperature distribution data received from the imaging device.

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