The Use of Pyrheliometer - Essay Example

 There are four major components of the system. These include the enclosure, mechanical motion system, power supply, and control system.

After mounting the pyrheliometer on a concrete platform, it will be detachable from the entire system when not in operation. Thus, the system will use algorithms provided by the National Renewable Energy Lab that use GPS to track the sun. The control system will locate the position of the sun and translate the data to signals that will move the motors to orient the device correctly. This will transfer the result using the components of USB and Ethernet to LabVIEW.

Although the automated pyrheliometer project has hazards that can be experienced during the manufacturing and operation stages, stern measures will be taken to reduce the chances of their occurrence. First, the challenges experienced during the manufacturing stage will be addressed by providing training to the staff and ensuring that all operators wear protective clothing while at the manufacturing lab. Besides, the problem of insufficient heat dissipation will be resolved by using proper heat sinks for the motor drivers and having over-temperature sensors to turn off the system. Lastly, a warning red light-emitting diode (LED) will be used to help in reducing any hazards associated with the system hitting someone during operation.