Research on Image Analysis and Correction System of Heliostat Spot Quality

Abstract

Heliostats are integral components of tower solar thermal power generation systems, optimizing heliostat efficiency directly impacts overall power generation effectiveness. This research focuses on evaluating and enhancing heliostat optical quality and tracking accuracy, critical factors influencing their concentration efficiency. The study presents a comprehensive approach based on spot evaluation and correction techniques to assess and boost heliostat performance. Static Optical Quality Assessment, A novel methodology is introduced to appraise heliostat optical quality. It involves capturing heliostat spot shapes through image processing, followed by fitting and comparison with theoretical simulations. This technique provides valuable insights into heliostat mirror quality. Dynamic Tracking Accuracy Evaluation scheme is devised to evaluate dynamic tracking accuracy, by analyzing centroid positions of spots captured at regular intervals, horizontal and vertical tracking deviation angles are computed. These angles gauge heliostat dynamic tracking accuracy. To refine dynamic tracking accuracy, a heliostat tracking error correction scheme is proposed. A dynamic geometric tracking error model is formulated, enabling the derivation of a precise tracking angle calculation formula. A least squares mathematical model is established to solve for unknown tracking errors, facilitating accurate error angle calculation and subsequent correction. The presented static spot quality and dynamic tracking accuracy evaluation methods offer simplicity, precision, and efficiency. These techniques hold practical significance for tower solar thermal power generation systems. The devised tracking error correction scheme demonstrates practical effectiveness, validated through experimental simulations and real-world measurements. Implementation of this scheme substantially enhances concentrating power generation efficiency within tower solar thermal power generation systems.