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Title: A model for the directional distribution of the diffuse sky radiance with an application to a CPC collector

Journal Article · · Solar Energy (Journal of Solar Energy Science and Engineering); (USA)
 [1];  [2]
  1. Center for Solar Energy Studies, Tripoli (Libya)
  2. Univ. of Toronto, Ontario (Canada)

The development of a new, semi-empirical model for the directional distribution of the diffuse radiance is reported. The proposed regression-type model, with the form of its base functions obtained from physical principles, is based on a combination of the purely physical reasoning approach and the purely empirical approach. Direct multiple-scattering calculations are circumvented through the use of the method of successive orders of scattering. The model is calibrated for the mean diffuse radiance estimated under all sky conditions reported in a large and comprehensive diffuse radiance data set. It is found that only a small increase in accuracy is gained by including higher orders of scattering, and this increase does not justify the complexity of the resulting model. Therefore, the single scattering approximation is recommended. The use of the model is illustrated in a typical application, in which the fraction of diffuse radiation intercepted by the receive of a compound parabolic concentrator is computed.

OSTI ID:
6565785
Journal Information:
Solar Energy (Journal of Solar Energy Science and Engineering); (USA), Vol. 44:5; ISSN 0038-092X
Country of Publication:
United States
Language:
English