HCS V3
Device Logic is pleased to announce a new heliostat control system for heliostat OEMs.
HCS V3 is currently in the validation phase, with samples available soon.
High precision, closed loop control of heliostats up to 50m² is possible. The standard target heliostat for HCS V3 is in the 5-15m² range.
The system architecture is proven scalable, and whether a heliostat manufacturer requires 100 for functional verification or 10,000 for a commercial field, HCS V3 can solve the problem.
Components
SCADA
The Heliostat Control System has a SCADA package that is tailored to your individual requirements.
The SCADA has been designed for and tested against systems containing thousands of heliostats.
The SCADA controls the fully automatic calibration system that needs no operator input to very accurately correct for manufacturing, alignment and operation errors over the lifetime of the plant.
Running on a standard server, the package has a guaranteed support path for many years to come.
Distribution Architecture
The power and communications distribution systems are designed around standard industrial components selected for their proven ability to provide many years of trouble-free service.
Available with UPS as an option for guaranteed movement to a safe position in the event of power failure.
We supply complete distribution boxes, or drawings and specifications for local fabrication.
Control Board
The control board is used for real-time closed loop control of the motors on the heliostat.
Interfacing with standard industrial motors and feedback devices, the control board is responsible for the high tracking accuracy of the system.
Safety
The Heliostat Control System has been designed to fail to safe to preserve receiver plant and equipment in the event of malfunction or power loss.
Multiple system watch dog timers and dead man switches ensure that high concentrations of solar energy cannot remain on the receiver or tower under fault conditions.
Safety OnTrack™ and Safety OffTrack™ systems facilitate operational plant safety.
Communications
Communications is by a standard industrial technology using a custom, high-efficiency, robust protocol.
Unit addressing is automatic and requires no operator or installation configuration.
HCS V3 communications architecture is proven scalable in heliostat applications.
Experience
You can directly benefit from our proven ability to deliver heliostat control systems.
We can commission your heliostat system in your timeframe.
We are experienced in delivering value at all stages of the CSP plant delivery process.
Features
Custom Solution
HCS V3 has been designed so that input and output options can be customized as required to best fit your application.
Power supply topologies, motor drives and feedback devices can all be specified by you without impacting on the core functionality.
Your custom heliostat geometry is configured before commissioning.
Standard Interface
HCS V3 integrates with your PCS/DCS/SCADA using industry standard OPC technology.
HCS V3 interoperates with your system to pass important data and operational parameters.
Proven Scalability
From tens to hundreds to thousands, we have delivered a Heliostat Control System of your size.
Cost
HCS V3 pricing has fallen to 30% of the 2007 levels in only 3 years.
You benefit from Device Logic’s experience in optimizing the entire heliostat control solution.
Reliability
The HCS V1 and V2 have experienced zero in-service hardware failures.
The objective of HCS V3 is to give you years of trouble-free service.
HCS V3 uses only high-specification components from reputable suppliers.
Motors and Encoders
We can control most types of motors and interface with standard industrial encoders and feedback devices.
System Design
Because each heliostat and field design is different, we have developed a tool set that enables the rapid design and verification of the system design and system processes.
Next Steps
If you would like to discuss your heliostat design or project please contact us.
You can download a PDF version of this article from here:
HCS_V3_Web_Overview_en_us.pdf [517.25KB]
We can be part of your process from project planning through to customer acceptance and handover.