CONTROL SYSTEM

Software

Practical Solar's software represents the ultimate method of precise Sun-tracking. It surpasses sensor-based Sun tracking in both reliability and affordability. Rotation of the Heliostats is digitally controlled based on the mathematically computed position of the Sun relative to each Heliostat and its target.

Once the Heliostat’s physical assembly is complete, the Practical Solar software can be installed onto the user’s PC. A setup program guides the user through a straightforward routine that establishes the Heliostat’s location (latitude and longitude), its position relative to True South, and its position relative to the target. The software uses the PC’s date and time to compute the precise location of the Sun, and in turn, the precise position required of each of the Heliostat’s axes, in order to reflect sunlight to the target at every moment of the day. A sighting tool is also included with the Control System, to be used during the set-up routine for determining True South.

Features and Advantages

• No dedicated computer required. Software operates as a background program on a Windows-based PC (from Windows 95 to Vista).

• The programs are very small and use minuscule CPU time, so the burden is negligible – even on the slowest PCs.

• Position and calibration of each Heliostat is permanently registered in the system – no periodic adjustment required.

• Software corrects for up to 4 degrees of tilt in the mounting of the Heliostat (including tilt in the pole). 

• No Sun-tracking sensors, eliminating an important source of failure for many Sun-tracking systems.

• Up to 200 Heliostats can be registered and individually controlled with a single Control System.

• Multiple targets can be programmed for each Heliostat.

• Heliostats can be re-targeted in minutes. 

• Software provides continuous efficiency rating for each Heliostat based on angle between the Heliostat, target, and Sun. 

Driver Box

A single Driver Box can control up to 200 Heliostats. The Driver Box connects to the PC with a standard serial connection (RS-232C). A USB-to-Serial Port adapter is included with the system, since most new computers do not have a serial port. The Driver Box can be positioned up to 100 meters away from the computer. Heliostats are “daisy-chained” in series, so that only one cable need connect from a Heliostat array to the Driver Box. Cable connection to each Heliostat is accomplished in seconds using standard household tools. The cable is typically buried underground, much like an “invisible fence” for pets, so it is out of sight and safe from a lawnmower. Practical Solar recommends burying the cable about 4" deep.

Driver Box Specifications

CONTROL SYSTEM (Software + Driver Box) LIST PRICE:  [ Contact us ]