Rotation locking assemblies for reducing torsional galloping in solar tracking systems
The rotational locking mechanism addresses torsional galloping in solar tracking systems by using belts and torsional springs to lock the torque tube, effectively reducing damage and installation costs.
WO2026015451A1 Publication Date: 2026-01-15ARRAY TECHNOLOGIES INC
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Patent Information
- Application Number
- PCT/US2025/036649
- Authority / Receiving Office
- WO · WO
- Patent Type
- Applications
- Current Assignee / Owner
- Priority Date
- 2024-07-11
- Filing Date
- 2025-07-07
- Publication Date
- 2026-01-15
AI Technical Summary
Technical Problem
Conventional solar tracking systems face issues with torsional galloping, which leads to damage in PV modules and tracker drive assemblies due to external forces like wind and seismic activity, and existing solutions like fluid shock absorbers are expensive and ineffective at high angular velocities.
Method used
A rotational locking mechanism that limits rotation of the torque tube by employing belts or gears to transmit torque, using torsional springs and locking components to lock the tube in place at various points, thereby reducing torsional galloping.
Benefits of technology
The mechanism effectively limits torsional galloping, reducing damage to PV modules and tracker drive assemblies while being inexpensive and easy to install.
✦ Generated by Eureka AI based on patent content.
Abstract
Embodiments of the present disclosure include a rotation locking assembly for addressing dynamic effects of photovoltaic (PV) modules in a solar installation. In some embodiments, the rotation locking assembly includes a rotational locking mechanism, where the rotational locking mechanism includes a shaft, a locking component rotationally connected to the shaft, and a static cog that may be configured to engage the locking component and stop rotation of the shaft. Additionally, the rotation locking assembly includes a means for transmitting rotation of a torque tube to rotation of the shaft, where the locking mechanism is configured to limit rotation of the torque tube in response to an angular velocity of the torque tube exceeding a threshold.
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