CN106537060A - Monitoring and measuring of multiple light sources especially heliostats - Google Patents

Abstract

Described herein is an apparatus for monitoring and/or measuring multiple directional light radiative sources (15), each radiative source directing light radiation as a beam (202) of limited solid angle. The apparatus comprises a measuring device (33) having the capability to angularly distinguish the directional radiative sources from one another. The apparatus also includes means to scan the measuring device (33) across or through a zone on which at least 50% of the radiation beam from each radiative source impinges. The apparatus includes means (32) to record a set of multiple images respectively detected at the measuring device (33) at successive positions of the measuring device (33) during said scan. The radiation from the multiple directional radiative sources (15) is recorded at different positions of the measuring device (33) as the measuring device is scanned across the zone. The positions are sufficiently distinguishable in said set of multiple images to permit simultaneous measuring and/or monitoring of the directional radiative sources during a single scan of the measuring device (33) across or through said zone.

Description

The monitoring and measuring of multiple light sources, especially heliostat

Technical field

This invention relates generally to the monitoring and/or measurement of the orientation of multiple directional light sources.The invention allows to measure Radiant intensity in ray angle and position array.One purposes is the intensity of each simultaneously measured in multiple light sources Pattern（pattern）.The present invention is especially（Although not exclusively）In the calibration and control of the heliostat of solar energy field In it is useful.Such solar energy field can generally be with central solar energy receiver（Generally on pylon）And be installed into For angle adjustment with most preferably receive sunbeam and be channeled to central receiver heliostat array species the sun Can collection device.The solar collecting device of mentioned kind is referred to herein as central receiver solar energy collecting system.

Background technology

The challenge that central receiver solar energy collecting system has is between manufacturing cost and the degree of accuracy of manufacture Relative to the balance of heliostat.Large-sized solar field can have hundreds of, even thousands of heliostats, and therefore system Macroeconomy performance may depend on and realize low unit cost in the manufacture of each heliostat, including for carrying out to heliostat The actuator configuration of angle adjustment.On the other hand, cheap manufacture will usually bring high tolerance, and which will cause across large-scale field Significant changes in terms of the optical characteristics of heliostat.A mode for solving this problem is the geometry for obtaining each settled date reflecting mirror Calibration or characteristic, such as by the center of measurement heliostat image.The position of this point is can be used to on each heliostat Two angle alignment systems in each calibrated or adjusted.It is desirable that can survey on a receiving surface during operation Amount picture shape.However, it is not for measuring apparatus that the receiver in central receiver system operates at high temperature and is Sharp position.Reflectance is possibly uneven, and surface is possibly nonplanar.

United States Patent (USP) 4,564,275 provides a kind of collimation technique, and which eliminates, and provides The method for simultaneously making 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, and the radiometer is used to determine and then is used to the beam for realigning heliostat Barycenter error.The problem that this technology is present is the calibration of itself and unresolved cheap and inaccurate heliostat.

The PCT Patent Application of the applicant discloses WO 2012/083383 and discloses solar collecting device, and which includes fixed Solar energy receiver of the justice to the main target from the channeled daylight of adjustable angle heliostat field reception.By operatively coupling Close actuator devices and be configured to connect during the operation of device so as to the controller for realizing the angle adjustment of each heliostat Cause the interim angle adjustment of each heliostat continuously, so as to the sunbeam received at each heliostat is directed to auxiliary mesh Mark is up to predetermined amount of time.Each at auxiliary mark turns to the expression of beam by cameras record, and image parameter（Such as image Barycenter position）To the deviation with reference to specification there is provided for carrying out angle adjustment to improve which main to corresponding heliostat The basis of the aiming degree of accuracy in target.

Latter alignment mechanism is suitable for the little heliostat for inaccurately constructing.It is enterprising in auxiliary mark during operation The frequent measurement of capable image centroid allows Systems Operator to keep the model of heliostat geometry.

U.S. Patent Application Publication 2012/0174909 describes an a kind of circle camera using around central target will be fixed The system of solar eyepiece alignment.The camera is designed to be reflect off each settled date from the periphery solar energy area measure 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 is had been proposed for, and And these can include thousands of little heliostats.In this case, regularly to carry out independent school to heliostat Accurate requirement may be problematic, because calibration or auxiliary mark are shared resources.In all other heliostat by individually school There will be for a long time between the calibration point for a heliostat while quasi-.There is practical limit in the number of calibration target, Because which is all needed with the size similar with receiver, this causes many targets heavy.

When little heliostat and receiver at long distances when, there is Second Problem：Its image formed in white surface Much lower times of possible strength ratio ambient light.The system for being designed to accurately measure under these conditions heliostat image will be proposed It is significant to challenge.

3rd problem is that, due to the dependence to the heliostat calibration via auxiliary mark, system remains a need for heliostat geometry knot The detailed model of structure is allowing the amendment carried out on auxiliary mark main（That is receiver）It is effective in 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 many pixel cameras, the shooting image snapshot at each scanned position.By making pixel It is associated with each several part on heliostat surface, can defines the geometry on surface, and using this information optimizing solar energy The flux of energy of receiver.

PCT Patent Application discloses WO 2009/152573 and describes a kind of method for being calibrated to heliostat and dress Put, which aims to solve the problem that above-mentioned 3rd problem, but by limited.In on-line calibration program, by primary recipient Compare the Flux Distribution corresponding to the multiple reflecting mirrors in the first and second reflection pitch-angles at machine performing calibration.This technology The movement of the heliostat during normal operating is required, and therefore to the error sensitive in independent settled date mirror actuator.Additionally, this The technology of kind is contributed not in single reflecting mirror is spatially distinguished, only its overall contribution flux.In off-line calibration procedure, WO 2009/152573 only to teach and be directed to single heliostat on primary receiver and adjust mirror angle to realize most Good power detection.This technology is subjected to affecting for heliostat downtime problem mentioned above.

The general purpose of the preferred embodiments of the present invention be to provide the monitoring of the improvement of the orientation of multiple directional light sources and/or Measurement.In specific application interested, the purpose of the present invention is the problems referred to above to solve current alignment system at least in part （Which causes the reception of the day light image on from heliostat to auxiliary mark）Mode the heliostat form in solar energy field is provided In multiple interval light sources calibration and adjustment.

Reference to any prior art is not and should not be construed as this prior art to be formed in Australia big in this manual A part or this prior art for common sense in Leah or any other compass of competency can be reasonably expected that quilt Those skilled in the art determines, understands and is considered as recognizing or any type of hint for correlation.

The content of the invention

In its application of sun heliostat field, the present invention relates to by the compound beam scanning from multiple heliostats Or it is inswept each have multiple pixels sensor array concept.Record image the information that can be obtained using result come while Ground measures image from each heliostat.Then each heliostat can be adjusted to irradiate the prime of receiver target.

In one aspect, the invention provides a kind of device for monitoring and/or measuring multiple directed radiation sources, each Radiation source will be radiated and be guided as the beam of limited solid angle, including：

Measuring apparatus, which has the ability for being mutually distinguishable out directed radiation source in angle；

To across or at least 50% shock section in the above by the radiant flux from each radiation source, carry out scanning survey The part of equipment；And

To during the scanning at the continuous position of measuring apparatus record respectively detect at measuring apparatus it is many The part of the set of individual image；

Wherein, as measuring apparatus are scanned across the section, the various location in measuring apparatus is recorded from the plurality of The radiation in directed radiation source, and the position is abundant recognizable to allow to set in measurement in the set of multiple images It is standby across or single sweep operation by the section during directed radiation source while measure and/or monitor.

In second aspect, the invention provides a kind of method for monitoring and/or measuring multiple directed radiation sources, each Radiation source will be radiated and be guided as the beam of limited solid angle, and methods described includes：

（a）Receive from multiple orientations at least 50% shock section in the above of the radiant flux from each radiation source The radiation of radiation source；

（b）Across or by the section scanning survey equipment, the measuring apparatus with by directed radiation source in angle mutual area The ability do not opened；And

（c）During the scanning at the continuous position of measuring apparatus record respectively detect at measuring apparatus it is multiple The set of image；

Wherein, with across the section scanning survey equipment measuring apparatus various location record from multiple orientation spokes Penetrate the radiation in source；And

The position in the set of multiple images be it is fully recognizable, with allow measuring apparatus across or by described Monitor and/or measure while being oriented radiation source during the single sweep operation of section.

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

In certain embodiments, measuring apparatus include being configured to directing radiation onto on one or more sensors can Tilting mirror array.

In one embodiment, measuring apparatus include the battle array of the single pixel camera with associated computer control Row.

In certain embodiments, the subset is mutual exclusion.In other embodiments, the subset shares one or more public affairs Common pixel.

In certain embodiments, sensor array is scanned by the first actuator.Preferably by sensor array is installed To can incrementally be moved through the arm of compound beam to realize the scanning of 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 is controlled.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 second time period, the first actuator Arm is made 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 invention provides a kind of solar collecting device, including：

Solar energy receiver, which defines the target to receive channeled solar radiation；

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

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

In fourth aspect, the invention provides a kind of solar energy collecting method, including：

The target that defined by solar energy receiver receive from be mounted for angle adjustment with most preferably receive it is a branch of too The heliostat solar radiation for guiding of the radiable heliostat field of sun the target for being channeled to solar energy receiver, it is described to penetrate Shu Yiqi forms the compound beam being incident in target；

The step of performing the method according to the first embodiment of second aspect（b）With（c）, wherein, the plurality of directed radiation source Including the heliostat, and the section includes the region that defined by the compound beam.

In terms of the 5th, the invention provides actuator multiple directed radiation sources monitoring and/or measurement in across Or the section by least 50% shock of the radiant flux from each radiation source in the above, carry out the use of scanning survey equipment.

Unless wherein context is required in addition that, the variant of as used herein term " including " and the term（Such as " bag Include ", "comprising" and " containing "）It is not intended to exclude other adnexaes, component, entirety or step.

As it is used herein, in addition to context is required in addition that, term " scanning " means to use detector（Such as sensor Array）On object or across the action of object movement.

The use in this manual such as term " daylight ", " light " refers to visible, the ultraviolet and infrared wavelength model of generation covering The electromagnetic radiation of one or more in enclosing.

As used herein term " limited solid angle " mean by optical receiver receive that vertebral body limited three In dimension space to two-dimensional angular.

Description of the drawings

The preferred embodiments of the present invention are further described in an illustrative manner only referring now to accompanying drawing, in the accompanying drawing In：

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

Fig. 2 is for combining the saturating of the embodiment of the pylon of the system of Fig. 1 of embodiments of the invention installation central receiver View；

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

Fig. 4 is the rear view of typical heliostat；

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

Fig. 6 and 7 illustrates the alternative embodiment respectively with circular and drum scanning.

Specific embodiment

The present invention has in the operation of the central receiver solar energy collecting system using the heliostat for economically fabricating Specific practicality.Exemplary such system 10 is depicted in FIG.The system includes central solar energy receiver 12, its Above pacified on the large-scale array of the detached heliostat of horizontal space 15 or field 18 or in the way 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 channeled beam 202）It is directed to solar energy receiver 12.As being best shown in fig. 2, receiver 12 has hole Footpath, the receiver target of its channeled beam 202 of the definition to receive daylight from heliostat during the operation of system.Jing The beam 202 of guiding forms the compound beam 203 being incident in receiver target together.

Optimum reception position in this context is the two-dimentional Angle Position of heliostat, and which is connect to being incident in each heliostat Flux of energy in receipts machine target makes the special time of the specific date for expecting contribution by central authorities' control further described below It is appropriate location that device processed determines into.Usually, it is therefore an objective to most preferably close to the expectation flux level and flux at receiver point Cloth.

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

In the embodiments of the 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 by other types of framework in which support in other embodiments, it is described other The framework of type includes illustrated cantilever frame in Fig. 1.Receiver target 13 is herein shown as general planar and rectangle 's.Other shapes, such as curve, cone or cylindrical shape is may instead be in appropriate circumstances.

From on receiver, prominent also having includes the measuring apparatus of substantial horizontal extension base 33, its by integrally or It is releasably attached to perpendicular and extends pendency arm 31.It is installed 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, can be by Sensor 32 is considered as digital camera sensor.Base 33 is included in for being aligned at a right angle and substantially with sensor array With the rectilinear direction at a right angle of beam 202（Indicated with arrow 35）On across the compound beam in the section 38 before target 13 The actuatable mechanism of electronics of 203 scannings or inswept camera array 30（It is not shown）.In another embodiment, camera array 30 not by Scan on one's own initiative, but be allowed to passively scan under the external action of such as wind or gravity etc.

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

In the case of plane receiver target 13, as shown in Figure 2, actuatable mechanism be configured in direction and It is scanned across target 13 in both inverse directions in a linear fashion.And if when necessary, arm 31 can be not right with target 13 Position accurately, so as to not in the path of compound beam 203.During receiver is columnar embodiment wherein, such as Fig. 6 and 7 In it is illustrated, the whole circumference that arm 31 can be incrementally around receiver in circular or drum scanning is advanced.

In other embodiments（It is not shown）In, 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, and which can be around Receiver is vertically movable.

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

Usually, sensor 32 need not separately reach identical distance, but may be provided in linear array, have in-between There are different distances.In other embodiments, array 30 be with vertically and horizontally extending sensor 32 two-dimentional battle array Row.

In other embodiments, using the measuring apparatus in addition to pel array.In some other embodiments, using can The measuring apparatus of the same size and orientation that measure radiation according to two angle dimensions replace the inspection of the position in array 30 Survey device.In an alternative embodiment（It is not shown）In, with direct light to respective optical sensor or have multiple radiation The electric tiltable reflecting mirror in the different corner reflection areas of the single optical pickocff of response pixel, lens, reflector/lens combination And/or the two-dimensional array of the same size of reflecting mirror or lens and orientation.Reflecting mirror or lens are serially or concurrently to light Learn sensor transmission light.Can scanning reflection mirror/lens simultaneously measuring input light with the scanning of overall detector array.Another One alternative embodiment（It is not shown）In, detector includes the array of single pixel camera, and each can be by connecing at processor The post processing of the optical signal of receipts（For example, via compression imaging technique）Space and angle difference is carried out to light.

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

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

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

The appropriate heliostat 15 with associated actuators 60,62 is illustrated in the diagram.Heliostat 15 is designated as being incorporated into Exemplary apparatus in system 10.However, it will be appreciated that can be by other types and the heliostat or different heliostats of design Combination be attached in system 10.Heliostat 15 includes the large-scale concave surface of the supporting frame 20 for being fixed to rectangular profile by binding agent Mirror.Framework 20 is arranged on the top of support or pillar 70 with by the means of description, and including prolonging from 23 radial direction of central hub 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 positioned in concave side.Framework pattern of the size of component by produced by software determines.Use throughout framework 20 Securing member, such as screw thread form screw, grappling, spot welding or bolted joints.

Reflecting mirror 14 is by using the inner edge flange 28 for putting on all timbers 22（Which jointly defines the scrobicula face parabolic bodily form Shape）On folded bump framework 20 is directly glued to based on the binding agent of polyurethane.Reflecting mirror is generally by with height Reflectivity surface（Such as composite plastic）Made with the thick glass of the 3mm for reducing energy absorption with low iron-holder.Appropriate is such " Miralite Solar Premium " that glass includes the glass manufactured by Sencofein or manufactured by Saint Gobain.

Paired linear screw actuator 60,62 for controlling heliostat orientation is generally parallel positioned so which two Person is essentially perpendicular to reflecting mirror 14 and extends.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 motors 65.

Actuator 60,62 is arranged to so that can be for any angle of incident illumination Degree keeps focus point.One axle is by from east to west（I.e. laterally）Control, and another by north to south（It is inclined upwardly）.So And, an axle is controlled relative to another axle.Specifically, transverse rotation is around framework Support bracket 66（Itself to Go up or be rotated down）Form center base occur：This arrangement minimizes the amount of space taken by each heliostat 12.

Framework 20 is connected to Support bracket 66 at perpendicular separation hinge to rotate around the vertical axes with reference to hinge. First linear actuatorss 60 are installed in from Support bracket 66 laterally between rearwardly projecting arm 64 and mirror frame 20, so as to Control this horizontal or thing in rotary moving.Bracket 66 is further pivotally attached to the top of pillar 70 by bracket pin 68.Pin 68 is fixed Adopted sloping shaft, bracket 66 can be around the inclination axial adjustment so as to the inclination angle of framework 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 to realize reflecting mirror between the attachment point at the lower end of pillar 70 and bracket 66 Inclination or the adjustment of inclination.Arm 64 is selected to provide optimal actuator geometry with the angle of bracket 66, according to the position in field Put and there are different angles for each heliostat.Bracket 66 may also include many different attachment points for actuator 62, its Also may be selected to provide best angle according to the position of the independent heliostat in field.

As shown in Figure 3, it is adjacent to the magnetic sensor 80 that each heliostat installs to be used to measure by inclination and laterally Each orientation or position angle of each heliostat of orientation or drift angle definition.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）Encoder, such as Hall effect are compiled Code device.Additionally, these encoders are deployed determination motor shaft position, rather than directly measure the angle position of mirror assembly Put.

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

According to embodiments of the invention illustrated in Fig. 5, each digital camera sensor 32 is such as Charged Couple Device（CCD）Or complementary metal oxide semiconductors (CMOS)（CMOS）Light defined in independent or multiple photodiode in arrangement rings Answer the plane subarray of pixel.Pixel each can respond to provide the tolerance for being incident on light in pixel.As described in Fig. 2, Camera array 30 has 25 digital camera sensors 32, but according to application and desired sensitivity, there may be more Many or less sensors.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 which has for recording expression every The appropriate electronic installation of the data of the intensity and position of light that receive at individual sensor and at each pixel.With in target 13 Above essentially horizontally scan or inswept camera array 30 across compound beam 203, controller 40 is configured to during scanning The set of the multiple images for respectively detecting at camera array is recorded at the continuous position 100 of array.Meanwhile, sensor 32 other subsets are scanned simultaneously to characterize those heliostats across the beam of other heliostats.Sweep in the level of array 30 During retouching, the predetermined subset of sensor 32 is exposed to the light from each heliostat and reaches predetermined amount of time.At 102 in Figure 5 Depict the position of each digital camera sensor or array.In given scanning, at least two continuous positions are there is preferably 100 and more preferably at least ten.

Distance of the scanning pattern away from receiver is not key, and may relative close（As shown）Or distance is more Far.This is design decision, and which is included to many cameras in large area with relatively low 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 be shone with transregional section of 38 scanning camera arrays 30 Penetrate the corresponding different subsets of the pixel illustrated at 110 in Figure 5.With the sufficiently small picture in digital camera sensor Element and sufficiently scan position, can simultaneously characterize all heliostats in field.For example, if each digital camera is sensed Device 32 is 10,000,000 pixel cameras and has 10000 heliostats, and this generally remains the pixel of rational quantity per heliostat（It is real About 1000 on border）.

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

The another way for expressing this arrangement is that such as each heliostat will access the zones of different of each camera sensor.It is logical Cross the intensity where known in shooting image each camera and calculate in each camera from each heliostat, Ke Yiji Calculate the shape of the image from each heliostat.Then can further calculate misalignment and determine respective corners position correction, it is as follows It is described.

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

In some of the calibration for previously describing and adjustment system, each heliostat in field must individually and successively Point to auxiliary mark.With the arrangement of the present invention, can be not to any auxiliary mark and therefore to the offline heliostat that shoots Simultaneously characterize in the case of any requirement or monitor the sizable heliostat being sufficiently separated of number.

It will of course realize that scanning be to perform rapidly and infrequently so that camera sensor is being scanned or is being swept During crossing only within the appropriate short time in compound beam 203, and can offset with away from the relatively low reality of wherein intensity Receiver, both makes it easier to camera design into durable（survive）And reliably run.In some installations, Sensor array may be actively cooled when array passes through thermal region to avoid damaging.Additionally or alternatively, Ke Yitong Arrangement is crossed using driving high performance enough and the high-velocity scanning of control system to make the time of staying in compound beam 203 minimum Change.Every time scanning preferably lasts for the time in the range of 0.5 to 20 second, more preferably 1 to 15 second, e.g., from about 2 seconds.

With regard to rate of scanning, generally need only be scanned per 60 seconds or so, but preferably more frequently may carry out Scanning.It is envisaged that array is by the inswept surface deviateed from receiver up to several times of receiver size.This skew will reduce into The total flux intensity being mapped on sensor, and therefore extend its useful life longevity.Rotating system may be adopted in system, Wherein, such as receiver includes continuous cylinderical surface, but this will exclude by intermittent movement to reduce energy absorption.

As it was previously stated, 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 is the calibration of each heliostat, 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.Can be by making camera array 30 across having by record The relative magnitude of the peak response that the independent heliostat beam 202 of constant direct irradiance is inswept and generates is carrying out school to system It is accurate.Then the photoresponse from each sensing station 102 is sampled, and and then these sample images is combined as into picture The subset of element is inferred to the reference bit for heliostat to produce the reference picture for each heliostat from the reference picture Put.

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

By before operation on the scene across the intermittently scanning sensor array 30 of compound beam 203, so as to receiving and recording Update the data relative to the respective subset of the pixel simultaneously irradiated by corresponding heliostat, by this update the data with memorizer The data of the previously determined reference position for heliostat compare and when necessary in response to detecting in comparison step Difference and output angle position correction or adjustment signal heliostat annular location are transported at regular intervals to realize monitoring The more new stage of row adjustment.

In optimal placement, the subset of pixel is mutual exclusion, i.e., there is no the total pixel of any two subset.Preferably It is the both full-pixel separation of the neighbor that at least there is respective subset.This is because the pixel side between heliostat beam will be guaranteed 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 there is enough pixels of the not common for each heliostat can be distinguished and Characterize.

As camera pixel interested is not affected by the impact of ambient light, so in heliostat apart from remote and auxiliary mark figure As the foregoing problems that can not show a candle to occur when ambient light is strong are substantially addressed.

This system calibrated in receiver target during operation allows to adjust heliostat in a closed loop manner, removes All source of errors, the property regardless of actuating system only requirement is that and can move heliostat just to intercept initially The region being swept.Which solve such as the employing auxiliary mark that discussed previously as " the 3rd " problem that formerly configuration is present Shortcoming.

The shape of independent heliostat can be characterized using methods and apparatus of the present invention.If each angle of incidence exists enough Pixel, then it is described configuration can be used in each phase airborne measurements from the light of the various parts of mirror surface or element 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.Lower limit is most likely subject to what is combined with visual field The restriction of the picture element density of CCD elements.

Another Application is calculating large-scale multiaspect using these measurement results（multi faceted）" inclination " of heliostat In adjustment, the individually sometimes flat faceted relative angle adjustment 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 of alignment（Level）.In replaceable arrangement, array can be by means of the rotation before the plane receiver or part circular Inswept or around cylindrical shape or part-cylindrical receiver drum scanning comes through compound beam.In another arrangement In, array face in front of the receiver it is vertical inswept in through compound beam.

In heliostat calibration application mentioned above, expect to make the visual field of each camera include whole field and enough angles Resolution is differentiating single heliostat.In the case of reflector surface is characterized, expect to provide higher angular resolution with can There are in mirror surface many pixels, visual field only covers single heliostat.Embodiment can have be compared to heliostat school Plane farther sensor in range aperture for quasi- application, and whole component will need aiming heliostat interested.Therefore, In certain embodiments, base 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 the surface of receiver 12.This movement allows more or less of sensor pixel to be included in from the settled date In the compound beam of mirror.

The present invention can be considered as into angular selectivity image-forming component more generally, which can be in measurement surface and angle of incidence Intensity in angle range.Can use it for using the mixture of computer generated image and conventional radiography accurately measuring meaning Figure intercepts the present cinematography of the lighting pattern on the cgi surfaces of reflection.For example, if requiring to cause glittering CGI vehicles The complex scene for being related to multiple light sources and cast shadow object etc. is crossed, face has the general of camera array thereon to replace driving It is open to traffic to measure pattern and the direction of light so which can be reproduced into and present for CGI.If to realize on a small scale, Then the present invention can provide a kind of new camera, and which can form focus with algorithmic approach, and can be during editing process Again focus on and change the depth of field.

" one embodiment ", " some embodiments " or referring to for " embodiment " are meant with reference to the reality in this specification Apply the special characteristic described in example, structure or characteristic to be included at least one embodiment of the invention.Therefore, phrase is " one In individual embodiment ", " in certain embodiments " or " in embodiment " throughout this specification diverse location appearance not necessarily But can be all referring to same embodiment.Additionally, in one or more embodiments, can in any appropriate manner by specific spy Levy, structure or property combination, such as according to the disclosure for those of ordinary skill in the art will become apparent to.

As used herein term " exemplary " is used in the sense that example is provided, contrary with property is indicated. That is, the embodiment that " exemplary embodiment " is as an example and provides, 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 the various features of the present invention Concentrate in together in single embodiment, figure or its description to make the disclosure smooth and to help understand in various inventive aspects One or more.However, should not disclosed method be construed to reflect that claimed invention requirement ratio will in each right The intention of the more features enunciated in asking.On the contrary, as the following claims reflect, the aspect of the present invention exists In less than the single all features for disclosing embodiment above.Therefore, the claim after detailed description is by so as to clearly It is attached in this detailed description, each claim independently advocates its requirement as the separate embodiments of the present invention.

In addition, although some embodiments as herein described include being included in some of other embodiments but not having other Feature, the combination of the feature of different embodiments are intended within the scope of the invention, and form different embodiments, such as this area Technical staff will be understood that.For example, in following claims, can in any combination way using any claimed Embodiment.

In the description for providing herein, many specific details are elaborated.It is to be understood, however, that not having these specific Embodiments of the invention can be implemented in the case of details.In other cases, well-known method, knot are not yet illustrated in detail in Structure and technology are in order to avoid make 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 using in the claims Connect.Can be using 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 scope for being coupled to the expression of the device A of equipment B should not be limited to the output of wherein device A by directly It is connected to equipment or the system of the input of equipment B.It is intended to there is path between the output and the input of B of A, the path can Being the path for including miscellaneous equipment or part." coupling " can refer to two or more elements in directly physically or electrically connecing Touch, or the not mutual directly contact of two or more elements is still still cooperated with each other or interacted.

Therefore, although have been described with the content for being considered as the preferred embodiments of the present invention, but those skilled in the art Member and is intended to requirement it will be recognized that can carry out other without departing from the spirit of the invention to which and further change What protection such as fell within the scope of the present invention all such changes and modifications.Can add to schematic diagram or work(is deleted from schematic diagram Can, and commutative operation.Can be to the method addition or delete step for describing within the scope of the invention.

Clause

In a first aspect, the invention provides it is a kind of for monitor and/or measure each using light as limited solid angle beam And the device of the multiple directional light sources for guiding, including：

Sensor array, each sensor have multiple photoresponse pixels；

To across or at least 50% shock section in the above by the light beam from each light source, scan the sensing The part of device array；And

To during the scanning at the continuous position of the array record respectively detect at the array it is many The part of the set of individual image；

Wherein, recorded from the plurality of at the different respective subsets of pixel as the array scans across the section The light of directional light sources, and the subset is fully recognizable in the set of multiple images, to allow in sensor array Arrange across or single sweep operation by the section during directional light sources while measure and/or monitor.

Advantageously, in one embodiment, described device also includes controller, and the controller is configured to receive and depositing The data of the different subsets of the pixel being orientated relative to the reference for respective sources are stored in reservoir, are subsequently received and are remembered Use videotape to record and the respective subset of the pixel simultaneously illuminated by respective sources updated the data, and this has been updated the data with The reference that data in memorizer compare to realize light source is orientated.

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

In another embodiment, to as larger（For example it is substantially continuous）The multiple light sources of the element of light source are useful, Described device includes controller, and the controller is configured to receive and store in memory the described different sons relative to pixel The data of collection, and process the data to characterize each element of light source, the amount of the light for for example sending from light source or larger light source Relative slope.

In second aspect, present invention also offers it is a kind of monitoring and/or measure each using light penetrating as limited solid angle Beam and the method for multiple directional light sources that guides, including：

Receive from the plurality of directional light sources at least 50% shock section in the above of the light beam from each light source Light；

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

The multiple figures for respectively detecting at the array are recorded during the scanning at the continuous position of the array The set of picture；

Wherein, record from described at the different respective subsets of the pixel of array with the array is scanned across the section The light of multiple directional light sources；And

The subset in the set of multiple images be it is fully recognizable, with allow sensor array across or pass through institute Monitor and/or measure while being oriented light source during the single sweep operation for stating section.

Advantageously, methods described also includes：

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

Updating the data for the respective subset relative to the pixel simultaneously illuminated by respective sources is subsequently received and records, and The data that this has been updated the data the reference orientation for light source in memorizer compare.

This method is preferably also included in response to detecting difference in comparison step and output light source orientation revise signal.

The plurality of directional light sources can be discrete light source or larger（For example it is continuous）The element of light source.The plurality of orientation Light source can be active optical generator or passive type reflective optical system or transmitter.Heliostat is the typical case of latter event.

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

In the third aspect, the invention provides a kind of solar collecting device, including：

Solar energy receiver, which defines the target to receive channeled daylight；

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

Sensor array, each sensor have multiple photoresponse pixels；

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

To record the multiple images respectively detected at array at the continuous position of array during the scanning Set, thus, come self-fields multiple, preferably multiple heliostats light with across compound beam scanning array by pixel Record at different respective subsets, and the subset is fully recognizable in the set of multiple images, to allow passing Sensor array across or single sweep operation by the compound beam during carry out multiple heliostats while measure and/or monitor.

Advantageously, the device of a third aspect of the present invention also includes a kind of controller, and which is configured to receive and in storage The data of the different subsets of pixel relative to the reference angular position for corresponding heliostat are stored in device, are subsequently received simultaneously Record the respective subset relative to the pixel simultaneously illuminated by corresponding heliostat to update the data, this has been updated the data with The data of the reference angular position for heliostat in memorizer compare, and the difference in response to detecting in comparison step And export the Angle Position revise signal for corresponding heliostat.

In fourth aspect, present invention also offers a kind of solar energy collecting method, including：

Receive from being mounted for angle adjustment most preferably to receive a branch of day in the target that defined by solar energy receiver The daylight of the heliostat guiding of the heliostat field of light is simultaneously channeled to the target of solar energy receiver, and the beam is formed together The compound beam being incident in target；

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

The multiple figures for respectively detecting at the array are recorded during the scanning at the continuous position of the array The set of picture；

Wherein, as the array is by across the compound beam scanning, at the different respective subsets of the pixel of array, record comes From the plurality of（It is preferably multiple）The light of heliostat, and the subset is fully recognizable, to allow in sensor array Across or by it is described combination beam single sweep operation during allow the plurality of heliostat while optical characterisation.

Sensor array is preferably linear sensor array.The array can be by means of horizontal before the plane receiver Rotation or part circular is inswept or cylindrical shape of around cylindrical shape or part-cylindrical receiver is inswept penetrating through compound Beam.

In certain aspects of the invention, the subset of pixel is preferably directed in light source by no pixel in each subset More than one irradiation but it is fully recognizable.

Each subset of pixel further can pass through not with overlap with the adjacent subset of pixel（I.e. not in subset Any two or more shared pixels）And can distinguish.

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

At two aspects of the present invention, each sensor can be easily 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, etc. Spacing square array.

The photoresponse pixel of each sensor each can preferably respond to provide the tolerance for being incident on light in pixel.Light The array of response pixel may include such as charge-coupled image sensor（CCD）Or the photodiode array in CMOS arrangements.

The sensor of array can be present in compound beam within the appropriate short time in scanning or inswept period, and can To offset with away from the relatively low actual receiver of wherein intensity, both of which is made it easier to camera design into durable.

Claims (20)

1. a kind of device for monitoring and/or measuring multiple directed radiation sources, each radiation source will be radiated as limited solid The beam at angle and guide, including：

Measuring apparatus, which has the ability for being mutually distinguishable out directed radiation source in angle；

To across or at least 50% shock section in the above by the radiant flux from each radiation source, carry out scanning survey The part of equipment；And

To during the scanning at the continuous position of measuring apparatus record respectively detect at measuring apparatus it is many The part of the set of individual image；

Wherein, as measuring apparatus are scanned across the section, the various location in measuring apparatus is recorded from the plurality of The radiation in directed radiation source, and the position is fully recognizable in the set of multiple images, to allow in measurement Equipment across or single sweep operation by the section during directed radiation source while measure and/or monitor.

2. a kind of method for monitoring and/or measuring multiple directed radiation sources, each radiation source will be radiated as limited solid The beam at angle and guide, methods described includes：

（a）Receive from multiple orientations at least 50% shock section in the above of the radiant flux from each radiation source The radiation of radiation source；

（b）Across or by the section scanning survey equipment, the measuring apparatus with by directed radiation source in angle mutual area The ability do not opened；And

（c）During the scanning at the continuous position of measuring apparatus record respectively detect at measuring apparatus it is multiple The set of image；

Wherein, with across the section scanning survey equipment measuring apparatus various location record from multiple orientation spokes Penetrate the radiation in source；And

The position in the set of multiple images be it is fully recognizable, with allow measuring apparatus across or by described Monitor and/or measure while being oriented radiation source during the single sweep operation of section.

3. the device according to claim 1 or claim 2 or method, wherein, the measuring apparatus include sensor array Row, each sensor have multiple rdaiation response pixels, and at each position of array, in the different corresponding son of pixel Ji Chu records the radiation from multiple directed radiation sources, and subset is can fully to distinguish in the set of the plurality of image , with allow sensor array across or single sweep operation by the section during directed radiation source while measurement and/or Monitoring.

4. the device according to claim 1 or claim 2 or method, wherein, measuring apparatus include being configured to spoke Penetrate the tiltable reflection mirror array being directed on one or more sensors.

5. the device according to claim 1 or claim 2 or method, wherein, measuring apparatus are included with associated The array of the single pixel camera of computer control.

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

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

8. device according to claim 3 or method, wherein, the sensor array is scanned by the first actuator.

9. device according to claim 3 or method, wherein, can be activated by first by sensor array is installed to Device is incrementally moved through the arm of compound beam to realize the scanning of sensor array.

10. device according to claim 9 or method, wherein, the arm substantially perpendicularly extends from receiver, and The direction of the incremental movement of arm is substantially horizontal.

11. devices according to claim 9 or claim 10 or method, wherein, the position of the arm is by controller control System.

12. devices according to claim 11 or method, wherein, the controller is further configured to control arm relative to connecing The speed of receipts machine.

13. devices according to any one of claim 8 to 12 or method, wherein, during first time period, first Actuator across or by the section scanning sensor array, and during second time period, the first actuator removes arm The path in the region.

14. devices according to claim 3 or method, wherein, the sensor array is linear sensor array.

15. devices according to claim 3 or method, wherein, the sensor array is two-dimensional sensor array.

16. devices according to claim 8 or method, including the second actuator, which is configured to selectively moved arm To be closer to or farther away from receiver.

A kind of 17. solar collecting devices, including：

Solar energy receiver, which defines the target to receive channeled solar radiation；

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

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

A kind of 18. solar energy collecting methods, including：

Receive from being mounted for angle adjustment in the target that defined by solar energy receiver, with most preferably receive it is a branch of too The heliostat solar radiation for guiding of the radiable heliostat field of sun the target for being channeled to solar energy receiver, it is described to penetrate Shu Yiqi forms the compound beam being incident in target；

The step of performing method according to claim 3（b）With（c）, wherein, the plurality of directed radiation source includes described Heliostat, and the section includes the region that defined by the compound beam.

19. solar energy collecting methods according to claim 18, also include：

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

Subsequently receive and record the renewal number of the respective subset relative to the pixel simultaneously irradiated by the plurality of heliostat According to；And

The data for having been updated the data the reference position for heliostat in memorizer compare, and in response to comparing step The difference that detects in rapid and export the Angle Position revise signal for corresponding heliostat.

20. actuators multiple directed radiation sources monitoring and/or measurement in across or by the spoke from each radiation source At least 50% shock of beam section in the above, carrys out the use of scanning survey equipment.