3D cumulus cloud scene modelling and shadow analysis method based on ground-based sky images

Abstract

Cloud scene modelling and shadow analysis in 3D geographical scenes can provide auxiliary support for evaluating photovoltaic (PV) power generation. Thus far, real cloud scene based on measured data has not been constructed in 3D geographical scenes, and shadow with different intensity caused by cumulus cloud thickness has not been considered. In this study, a 3D cumulus cloud scene modelling and shadow analysis method based on ground-based sky images was proposed. First, a voxel-based 3D cumulus cloud scene modelling on GPU was proposed to model in the 3D geographic space and calculate cumulus cloud density. Then, a cumulus cloud density-based shadow analysis method was proposed, which can express shadow intensity. The experimental result showed that our method can accomplish near real-time 3D cumulus cloud modelling and shadow analysis in a 3D geographic space based on ground-based sky images, and the shadow intensity is inversely proportional to the direct solar radiation.