PC-based Solar Tracking Software

Sept. 9, 2010
Beckhoff releases TwinCAT Solar Position Algorithm library that permits the exact calculation of sun angles anywhere in the world, with the use of sensors. 

With PC-based control for solar power plants in mind, the software is suite for parabolic mirror and photovoltaic system as well as for other solar power plant designs that automatically track the sun's position for optimum utilization of the sun's rays. The software can also be used for other applications, including building automation or with wind turbines for shadow flicker calculations.

The software library offers high-precision determination of sun angles and the times for sunrise, solar noon and sunset year-round. The angle calculation requires the specification of date, time and exact longitude and latitude of the location. Other parameters, such as time zone, height above mean sea level, the slope of the ground or the orientation of the object, can also be factored in the equation.

Beckhoff Automation
www.beckhoff.com
 

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