Light tracking components for solar and wind power

Abstract

An apparatus and method for harvesting renewable energy includes a solar panel and a wind turbine mounted on the same extension arm. In this combination, as the extension arm rotates on the support mast, the solar panel simultaneously rotates through an arc of direction θ and an arc of tilt Φ according to a predetermined daily schedule based on the time of day and the latitude of the apparatus. Furthermore, as the solar panel moves, the wind turbine freely follows the wind direction, maximizing its harvesting of wind energy. To further maximize the energy harvesting capacity of the apparatus, the wind turbine is positioned on the extension arm to maintain its back toward the sun from the solar panel and remain unaffected by wind currents that may be caused by the solar panel.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention generally relates to apparatus, systems, and methods for collecting electrical energy for commercial use from sources such as solar arrays, wind turbines, and the utility grid. In particular, the present invention relates to an apparatus comprising a solar panel and a wind turbine in combination, the solar panel and the wind turbine operating together without interfering with each other or their respective operations. The present invention is particularly, but not exclusively, useful as an apparatus for collecting renewable energy from different sources, having different energy collection capacities, thereby further optimizing the combined renewable and publicly available energy collection capacity. Background Art

[0002] In many cases, it is desirable to have a power source that might otherwise be unavailable, and indeed, this may be the case for any of several different reasons. When using renewable energy sources, factors such as location, climate conditions, accessibility, and cost are important considerations in determining how best to provide the power source.

[0003] In recent years, the availability of renewable energy has provided significant flexibility in determining how to expand power availability. For example, wind and solar systems can be more localized and mobile than other sources of electrical energy. Consequently, these sources of renewable energy are being effectively commercialized.

[0004] Focusing specifically on solar and wind energy as renewable energy sources, it's clear that the devices that rely on these different meteorological phenomena are structurally distinct and have different capabilities. Importantly, while these phenomena are mutually exclusive for their respective operation, their outputs are cumulative. The upshot is that, when used together, each energy source can operate independently, and the combined effect of the different devices (i.e., wind and solar) can continue to generate electricity over extended daily operating cycles. Therefore, as a practical matter, it may be desirable to integrate these devices to facilitate their deployment. Furthermore, it may be desirable to integrate the combination of wind and solar devices with the public grid, if available.

[0005] To optimize an integrated wind / solar generator, the operational capabilities of each generator must be compatible with one another. Specifically, their operation should not interfere with the natural phenomena that underlie the other's operation. For example, a solar generator (e.g., solar panels) must never be in the shadow of a wind generator. In other words, the wind generator must be positioned "with its back to the sun" from the solar generator. Conversely, the wind generator must be positioned sufficiently "downwind" from the solar generator so that the solar generator does not interfere with its operation.

[0006] In view of the foregoing, it is an object of the present invention to provide an integrated system that uses a combination of a wind generator and a solar generator to generate electricity. Another object of the present invention is to provide an integrated system for collecting solar energy and wind energy that allows solar components (such as solar panels) to be continuously oriented relative to the path of the sun. Yet another object of the present invention is to provide an integrated system in which solar components and wind components are mounted together as the same structural assembly for independent, non-interfering operation. Yet another object of the present invention is to provide an integrated wind / solar generator that is capable of being connected to a public power grid for the combined use of different energy sources. Yet another object of the present invention is to provide an integrated solar / wind generator system that is simple to use, easy to manufacture, and relatively cost-effective. Summary of the Invention

[0007] The present invention is a renewable energy system that utilizes a combination of solar and wind power generation. As an integrated system, the present invention is constructed as a compact unit that can be permanently installed at a specific location and connected to the public grid for operation, or constructed as a mobile unit that can be periodically relocated as needed or required. For either embodiment (permanent or mobile), the independent operation of the solar and wind components is a key feature of the present invention. Furthermore, it is important that these components do not interfere with each other's operation.

[0008] Structurally, the system (i.e., apparatus) for collecting and storing renewable energy according to the present invention includes a support mast defining a mast axis. An extension arm is mounted horizontally on the support mast, perpendicular to the mast axis. Furthermore, the extension arm is mounted for rotation on the support mast about the mast axis in a plane perpendicular to the mast axis.

[0009] A solar panel is mounted at one end of the extension arm for collecting solar energy. Preferably, the solar panel comprises a plurality of photovoltaic cells mounted in an array. It is tilted at a variable angle Φ relative to the mast axis. More specifically, the solar panel is mounted on the extension arm for rotation through a predetermined angle Φ about a horizontal axis perpendicular to the extension arm and the mast axis. Furthermore, a wind turbine is mounted at the other end of the extension arm for collecting wind energy. This arrangement allows the wind turbine to freely rotate through an angle ψ about an axis parallel to the mast axis.

[0010] The device also includes a motor for rotating the extension arm through an orientation angle θ and for rotating the solar panel through a predetermined angle Φ. Both rotations are performed simultaneously according to a predetermined schedule. Specifically, the focus is on maintaining the orientation of the solar panel throughout the day for optimal solar energy absorption. In this combination of components, the present invention includes a battery connected to the solar panel and to a wind turbine to store the collected energy.

[0011] For the assembly of the system of the present invention, it should be understood that the solar panels have a weight W s , and the wind turbine has a weight W w With this in mind, the extension arm will have a balance point between its first and second ends where the weight of the wind turbine W w At a distance d from the equilibrium point w The weight of the solar panel W s At a distance d from the equilibrium point s The forces acting on the extension arms will counteract each other (W w d w =W s d s ). Furthermore, with a view to preventing operational interference between the wind turbine and the solar panels, the wind turbine is preferably located at a vertical height h above the extension arm. w In particular, choose the height h w and the distance d w and d s The wind turbine is positioned on the device to avoid interference of turbulent wind flow caused by the solar panels on the wind turbine. As disclosed above, the position of the wind turbine on the extension arm is established to be away from the solar panels, facing away from the sun and out of the shadow.

[0012] Operationally, it is envisioned that the motors used to rotate the extension arms and solar panels will be programmed with a predetermined schedule based on the time of day and the path of the sun during the day. i and the final angle θ f Furthermore, the angle Φ is an inclined arc extending between the angles Φ1 and Φ2. As indicated, the direction arc θ is established daily according to the predetermined schedule. i :θ f and the inclined arc Φ1:Φ2.

[0013] In detail, for the predetermined schedule, θ is established relative to the sunrise of the operation day. i , and establish θ relative to the sunset of the operation day f Furthermore, Φ1 is established relative to sunrise and sunset on the operating day, and Φ2 is established relative to noon on the operating day. Furthermore, the heading arc and the tilt arc are established relative to the latitude of the device.

[0014] As mentioned above, the wind / solar generator of the present invention can be connected to the public grid. If so, the present invention contemplates controlling the storage battery to collect and distribute electrical energy according to a priority protocol. Specifically, electricity drawn from the public grid is used only after electricity from the wind / solar generator has already been used. On the other hand, if excess energy generated by the wind / solar generator is available, it can be sent to the public grid to generate additional revenue. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0015] The novel features of the invention, as well as the invention itself, both as to its construction and its operation, will be best understood from the following description when read in conjunction with the accompanying drawings, in which like reference numerals refer to like parts, and in which:

[0016] Figure 1 is a perspective view of the apparatus of the present invention;

[0017] Figure 2 is the direction arc θ envisioned by the present invention i :θ f a graphical representation of ; and

[0018] Figure 3 is a graphical representation of the tilted arc Φ1 :Φ2 contemplated for the present invention. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0019] First reference Figure 1 , an apparatus for collecting and storing renewable energy according to the present invention is shown and is generally designated 10. As shown, the apparatus 10 includes a solar panel 12 and a wind turbine 14. For the present invention, the solar panel 12 can be an array of photovoltaic cells, which is presented in a manner well known in the relevant art for the purpose of converting solar energy into electrical energy. The wind turbine 14 used in the present invention is essentially a windmill 16, which may or may not be installed in a shield 18. For the purposes of the present invention, the wind turbine 14 can be of any type well known in the relevant art that is capable of converting wind energy into electrical energy.

[0020] Still refer to Figure 1 As will be seen, the apparatus 10 includes a base 20 that stabilizes the apparatus 10. Mounted within the base 20 or otherwise operatively connected to the apparatus 10 are a motor (not shown) and a battery (not shown). As contemplated by the present invention, the motor is used to reconfigure the apparatus 10 in a predetermined manner as fully disclosed below. In addition, a battery is provided to store electrical energy generated by the solar panels 12 and / or wind turbine 14. A portion of the electrical energy stored in the battery will be used to operate the apparatus 10. However, excess electrical energy may be used for other purposes deemed necessary or appropriate.

[0021] Structurally, apparatus 10 includes a support mast 22 defining a mast axis 24. As contemplated by the present invention, mast axis 24 is generally vertically oriented. Mounted on support mast 22 is an extension arm 26 defining a horizontal axis 28. Furthermore, mounted on extension arm 26 is a lift arm 30 defining a vertical axis 32. In this arrangement, extension arm 26 is perpendicular to support mast 22, while lift arm 30 is parallel to support mast 22 and perpendicular to extension arm 26.

[0022] The structure of the apparatus 10 of the present invention also includes a wind vane 34 fixed to the shroud 18. In response to the reaction of the wind vane 34, the wind turbine 14 will rotate through an angle ψ about the vertical axis 32. Depending on the wind direction, the wind turbine 14 can be rotated through an arc of 360°.

[0023] During assembly of the device 10, Figure 1 Several dimensions shown are of particular importance. Specifically, these dimensions include: i) h w , ie the height of the center of gravity of the windmill 16 above the horizontal axis 28; ii) d w , ie the distance from the vertical axis 32 to the equilibrium point 36 on the rod axis 24; iii) d s , which is the distance between the attachment point 38 connecting the solar panel 12 to the extension arm 26 and the balance point 36. Generally, these dimensions are established with consideration given to the structural stability and operational capabilities of the apparatus 10.

[0024] For operation of apparatus 10, a motor (not shown) mounted in support base 20 is programmed to rotate extension arm 26 through a predetermined orientation angle θ. The motor is also programmed to rotate solar panel 12 through a predetermined inclination angle Φ. Rotation of extension arm 26 and rotation of solar panel 12 are both performed according to a predetermined schedule.

[0025] In detail, the extension arm 26 rotates in the horizontal plane through an orientation angle θ measured in an orientation arc 40. More specifically, as Figure 1 Shown and in Figure 2 As shown graphically in FIG, the direction arc 40 is at an initial angle θ i and the final angle θ f (i.e. θ i :θ f ) extends between. According to the above predetermined schedule, the initial direction angle θ is established every day relative to the sunrise of the operation day. i , and the direction angle θ increases steadily during the day until a final direction angle θ is established relative to sunset on the same operating day. f As will be appreciated by those skilled in the art, the directional arc will traverse daily, and the length of the directional arc 40 (ie, θ1:θ f ) will change daily.

[0026] The motor also rotates the solar panels 12 as part of a predetermined schedule. Figure 1 Shown and Figure 3In the rotation illustrated in FIG, the inclination angle Φ extends between angles Φ1 and Φ2 through an inclination arc 42 (i.e., Φ1:Φ2). However, unlike the heading angle θ, the inclination angle Φ is measured in the vertical plane. Furthermore, for the inclination arc 42, Φ1 is established daily relative to sunrise and sunset on the operating day. On the other hand, Φ2 is established relative to noon on the operating day. The heading arc 40 and the inclination arc 42 are together established relative to the latitude of the device 10. In view of the above, it is important to remember that the angle ψ of the rotation of the wind turbine 14 about the vertical axis 32 will extend through a 360° arc and is independent of time.

[0027] For support and stability considerations associated with the present invention, the solar panel 12 will have a weight W s And the wind turbine 14 will have a weight W w Furthermore, the extension arm 26 will have a balance point 36 between its end points. Importantly, the balance point 36 will be located on the support mast 22 and the weight W of the wind turbine 14 will be located on the support mast 22. w At a distance d 36 from the equilibrium point w The weight W of the solar panel 12 acts on the extension arm 26. s At a distance d 36 from the equilibrium point s In this combination, W w and W s Counterbalance (ie W w d w =W s d s ).

[0028] The consequences of selecting the appropriate dimensions for the above structural combination include the fact that the wind turbine 14 will always be positioned away from the solar panel 12 and facing away from the sun. In addition, the wind turbine 14 will be positioned on the extension arm 26 and at a vertical height h above the extension arm 26. w The solar panels 12 are positioned to avoid interference with the wind flow past the wind turbine 14 that might otherwise be caused by the turbulent airflow caused by the solar panels 12 .

[0029] In an alternative embodiment of the present invention, the wind / solar generator can be connected to the public power grid in some manner. In particular, it is contemplated that a connection can be established directly to existing utility facilities, such as lampposts (not shown), or commercially available power outlets. In any case, electricity drawn from the public power grid will be used in preference to energy from the wind / solar generator, so that energy collected from the wind / solar generator is used first. Furthermore, excess energy can be returned to the grid for revenue generation purposes.

[0030] While the specific optical tracking assembly for solar and wind power as shown and disclosed in detail herein is fully capable of achieving the objectives and providing the advantages described herein, it should be understood that it is merely illustrative of the presently preferred embodiment of the invention and is not intended to limit the details of construction or design shown herein, except as described in the appended claims.

Claims

1. A device for collecting and storing renewable energy, comprising: a support rod defining a rod axis; an extension arm mounted on the support rod, wherein the extension arm has a first end and a second end, and wherein the extension arm is mounted for rotation on the support rod about the rod axis in a plane perpendicular to the rod axis through an angle θ; a solar panel mounted on the extension arm and mounted at the first end of the extension arm for collecting solar energy, wherein the solar panel defines a panel axis that is inclined at an angle Φ relative to the rod axis, and further wherein the solar panel is mounted on the extension arm for rotation through the angle Φ about an axis that is perpendicular to the extension arm and perpendicular to the rod axis; a wind turbine mounted on the extension arm and mounted at the second end of the extension arm for collecting wind energy, wherein the wind turbine is free to rotate about an axis parallel to the mast axis through an angle ψ, wherein the angle ψ is responsive to a wind vane mounted on the wind turbine for orienting the wind turbine depending on wind direction; a motor mounted on the apparatus and programmed to rotate the extension arm through the angle θ and the solar panel and the wind turbine through the angle θ according to a predetermined schedule, and wherein the wind turbine and the solar panel move in unison with each other during rotation of the extension arm while the wind turbine and the solar panel are capable of independent operation; and a battery connected to the solar panel and to the wind turbine to store the collected energy, The solar panel has a weight W s , and the wind turbine has a weight W w , and wherein the extension arm has a balance point between its first end and second end, and further, wherein the balance point is located on the support pole, the weight W of the wind turbine w At a distance d from the equilibrium point w The weight W of the solar panel acts on the extension arm. s At a distance d from the equilibrium point s Acting on the extension arm so that W w With W s To counter, W w d w =W s d s .

2. The apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the angle θ is at an initial angle θ i and the final angle θ f wherein the angle Φ is in an inclined arc extending between angles Φ1 and Φ2, and wherein the directional arc θ is established daily according to the predetermined schedule i :θ f and the inclined arc Φ1:Φ2.

3. The apparatus of claim 2, wherein θ is established relative to sunrise on the operating day. i , and establish θ relative to the sunset of the operation day f , and further, wherein Φ1 is established relative to sunrise and sunset on an operating day, and Φ2 is established relative to noon on an operating day, and further, wherein the heading arc and the tilt arc are established relative to the latitude of the device.

4. The apparatus of claim 1 , wherein the wind turbine is located at a vertical height h above the extension arm. w Place.

5. The device of claim 1, wherein the device is connected to a public grid for collecting electricity from the public grid.

6. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein a plurality of photovoltaic cells are mounted in an array on the solar panel.

7. A device for collecting and storing renewable energy, comprising: a support rod, the support rod defining a rod axis; an extension arm mounted on the support rod for rotation about the rod axis in a plane perpendicular to the rod axis through an angle θ, wherein the extension arm has a first end and a second end; a solar panel mounted on the extension arm for rotation therewith through the angle θ, wherein the solar panel defines a panel axis inclined at an angle Φ relative to the rod axis; a wind turbine for collecting wind energy, the wind turbine being mounted on the extension arm for rotation therewith, wherein the wind turbine is mounted on the extension arm at the second end of the extension arm, wherein the wind turbine is free to rotate about an axis parallel to the mast axis through an angle ψ, wherein the angle ψ is responsive to a wind vane mounted on the wind turbine for orienting the wind turbine depending on wind direction; a motor mounted on the apparatus and programmed to rotate the extension arm through the angle θ and the solar panel and the wind turbine through the angle θ according to a predetermined schedule, and wherein the wind turbine and the solar panel move together in unison with one another during rotation of the extension arm while the wind turbine and the solar panel are capable of independent operation, and wherein the wind turbine remains facing away from the solar panel so that the wind turbine does not cast a shadow on the solar panel as the sun moves across the sky, and wherein the wind turbine is positioned to avoid interference with wind flow caused by the solar panel; and a battery connected to the solar panel and to the wind turbine to store the collected energy, The solar panel has a weight W s , and the wind turbine has a weight W w , and wherein the extension arm has a balance point between its first end and second end, and further, wherein the balance point is located on the support pole, the weight W of the wind turbine w At a distance d from the equilibrium point w The weight W of the solar panel acts on the extension arm. s At a distance d from the equilibrium point s Acting on the extension arm so that W w With W s To counter, W w d w =W s d s .

8. The apparatus of claim 7, wherein the solar panel is mounted on the extension arm at the first end of the extension arm.

9. The apparatus according to claim 8, wherein the angle θ is an initial angle θ i and the final angle θ f wherein the angle Φ is in an inclined arc extending between angles Φ1 and Φ2, and wherein the directional arc θ is established daily according to the predetermined schedule i :θ f and the inclined arc Φ1:Φ2.

10. The apparatus of claim 9, wherein θ is established relative to sunrise on the operating day. i , and establish θ relative to the sunset of the operation day f , and further, wherein Φ1 is established relative to sunrise and sunset on an operating day, and Φ2 is established relative to noon on an operating day, and further, wherein the heading arc and the tilt arc are established relative to the latitude of the device.

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