A foldable photovoltaic array and method of deployment thereof

Abstract

The present application relates to a kind of foldable photovoltaic array and its deployment method, belong to photovoltaic power generation technical field, solve the existing photovoltaic array large footprint, operation is complicated and the problem of inconvenient evacuation.The foldable photovoltaic array of the present application, including photovoltaic module, cabinet and frame, the frame is housed in the cabinet, the frame includes first frame, second frame and third frame in turn hinged, the first frame, second frame and third frame can be folded with each other.The frame of the photovoltaic array of the present application can be folded and housed in cabinet, layout is compact, small space occupation, facilitate mobile transport.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention relates to the field of photovoltaic power generation technology, and in particular to a foldable photovoltaic array and its deployment method. Background Technology

[0002] Mobile photovoltaic (PV) arrays are primarily used in situations requiring temporary PV power generation, such as disaster relief sites, remote islands, deserts, plateaus, campsites, and geological exploration sites. When deployed to these locations, the PV modules are transported and deployed. On the return trip or to the next location, the modules are packed up and transported. This necessitates that the PV modules be easy to store, transport, deploy, and dismantle. Traditional PV arrays are laid out on a single plane. To avoid shading between panels, a certain distance must be maintained between rows, resulting in a large footprint. Furthermore, they are mostly installed individually, making operation cumbersome, time-consuming, and labor-intensive. Summary of the Invention

[0003] Based on the above analysis, the present invention aims to provide a foldable photovoltaic array and its deployment method to solve the problems of existing photovoltaic arrays having a large footprint, cumbersome operation, and inconvenient dismantling.

[0004] The objective of this invention is mainly achieved through the following technical solutions:

[0005] A foldable photovoltaic array includes photovoltaic modules, a cabinet, and a frame. The frame is housed in the cabinet and includes a first frame, a second frame, and a third frame that are hinged end to end. The first frame, the second frame, and the third frame are foldable together.

[0006] Furthermore, the top of the left and right side panels of the cabinet is provided with a first sliding groove, and the top of the third frame is provided with a third roller, which can slide within the first sliding groove.

[0007] Furthermore, it also includes a locking element and a clamping rod, the locking element being located at the top of the first frame and the clamping rod being located at the bottom of the first frame.

[0008] Furthermore, it also includes a ground platform, which is connected to the bottom plate of the cabinet, and both the side of the ground platform and the bottom plate of the cabinet are provided with guide rails.

[0009] Furthermore, the bottom of the first frame is provided with a first roller, and the middle of the left and right sides of the second frame are each hinged with a support rod, and the bottom of the support rod is provided with a second roller.

[0010] Furthermore, it also includes photovoltaic panel support rods and connecting rods, which can form a frame structure when unfolded.

[0011] Furthermore, it also includes diagonal bracing and side bracing. One end of the diagonal bracing is supported on the third frame and the other end is supported on the cabinet. One end of the side bracing is supported on the second frame and the other end is fixedly connected to the ground.

[0012] Furthermore, the frame is provided with a mounting plate, and the mounting plate has T-shaped sliding strips on both sides. The bottom of the photovoltaic module is provided with a second sliding groove that cooperates with the sliding strips.

[0013] Furthermore, the mounting plate is provided with a stepped locking pin at the top along the length of the slide bar, and the locking pin passes through the mounting plate.

[0014] A method for deploying a foldable photovoltaic array as described above, characterized by comprising the following steps:

[0015] Step 1: Lay out a ground platform on the ground and unfold the frame;

[0016] Step 2: Install diagonal braces and side braces;

[0017] Step 3: Unfold the photovoltaic panel support rods;

[0018] Step 4: Unfold the photovoltaic modules.

[0019] This invention can achieve at least one of the following beneficial effects:

[0020] (1) The foldable photovoltaic array of the present invention has a frame that can be folded and stored in a cabinet, with a compact layout, small space occupation, and convenient for mobile transportation.

[0021] (2) In the foldable photovoltaic array of the present invention, the total gravitational potential energy of the frame remains basically unchanged during the unfolding process. Therefore, the unfolding process only needs to overcome the friction between the moving components, and the unfolding process is quick and labor-saving.

[0022] (3) The photovoltaic module of the present invention adopts a modular design and is fixed as a whole with the frame, so that the photovoltaic module can be carried and used independently.

[0023] In this invention, the above-described technical solutions can be combined with each other to achieve more preferred combinations. Other features and advantages of this invention will be set forth in the following description, and some advantages may become apparent from the description or be learned by practicing the invention. The objects and other advantages of this invention can be realized and obtained from what is particularly pointed out in the description and drawings. Attached Figure Description

[0024] The accompanying drawings are for illustrative purposes only and are not intended to limit the invention. Throughout the drawings, the same reference numerals denote the same parts.

[0025] Figure 1 This is a schematic diagram of the foldable photovoltaic array in the stowed state according to an embodiment of the present invention;

[0026] Figure 2 This is a front view of the foldable photovoltaic array in its stowed state according to an embodiment of the present invention;

[0027] Figure 3 for Figure 2 AA section view;

[0028] Figure 4 for Figure 3 A magnified view of part A;

[0029] Figure 5 This is a schematic diagram of the foldable photovoltaic array in the unfolding process according to an embodiment of the present invention;

[0030] Figure 6 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of the foldable photovoltaic array when fully unfolded according to an embodiment of the present invention;

[0031] Figure 7 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of the photovoltaic module of the foldable photovoltaic array according to an embodiment of the present invention when it is fully unfolded;

[0032] Figure 8 for Figure 7 A magnified view of part B;

[0033] Figure 9 This is a schematic diagram of the mounting plate structure of the foldable photovoltaic array according to an embodiment of the present invention;

[0034] Figure 10 for Figure 9 A magnified view of part C;

[0035] Figure 11 for Figure 10 The right view;

[0036] Figure 12 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of a photovoltaic module according to an embodiment of the present invention;

[0037] Figure 13 This is a side view of a photovoltaic module according to an embodiment of the present invention;

[0038] Figure 14 for Figure 12 Enlarged view of part D in the middle;

[0039] Figure 15 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of the pressing plate and the abutment plate of the present invention in the separated state;

[0040] Figure 16 This is a schematic diagram of the stacked structure of the pressing plate and the abutment plate of the present invention;

[0041] Figure 17 This is a schematic diagram of the spring sheet structure of the present invention;

[0042] Figure 18 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of the second locking member of the present invention;

[0043] Figure 19 This is a schematic diagram of the sliding locking component of the present invention.

[0044] Figure label:

[0045] 1-Rack, 2-Photovoltaic module, 21-Photovoltaic panel, 211-First photovoltaic panel, 212-Second photovoltaic panel, 213-Third photovoltaic panel, 214-Fourth photovoltaic panel, 215-Fifth photovoltaic panel, 22-First locking element, 221-Pressing plate, 221a-Fixed end, 222-Abutting plate, 223-Spring, 23-Second locking element, 231-First clamping part, 232-Second clamping part, 233-Third clamping part, 234-Fourth clamping part, 24-Sliding locking element, 24 1-Sliding rod, 242-Sliding locking block, 243-First locking groove, 3-First frame, 31-First roller, 4-Second frame, 41-Support rod, 42-Second roller, 5-Third frame, 51-Third roller, 6-Locking component, 7-First sliding groove, 8-Pressure rod, 9-Photovoltaic panel support rod, 10-Connecting rod, 101-Pressure plate, 11-Ground platform, 12-Side support rod, 13-Diagonal support rod, 14-Mounting plate, 141-Sliding strip, 142-Locking pin, 15-Second sliding groove. Detailed Implementation

[0046] The preferred embodiments of the present invention will now be described in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings, which constitute a part of the present invention and are used together with the embodiments of the present invention to illustrate the principles of the present invention, but are not intended to limit the scope of the present invention.

[0047] In the description of the embodiments of the present invention, it should be noted that, unless otherwise explicitly specified and limited, the term "connected" should be interpreted broadly. For example, it can refer to a fixed connection, a detachable connection, or an integral connection; it can be a mechanical connection or an electrical connection; it can be a direct connection or an indirect connection through an intermediate medium. Those skilled in the art can understand the specific meaning of the above terms in the present invention according to the specific circumstances.

[0048] Throughout the text, the terms “top,” “bottom,” “above,” “below,” and “on top” refer to the relative positions of components of the device, such as the relative positions of the top and bottom substrates within the device. It is understood that the device is multifunctional and independent of its spatial orientation.

[0049] For ease of description, the side with the opening in the cabinet is defined as "front", the opposite side as "rear", the left side facing the front of the cabinet is "left", and the right side is "right".

[0050] Example 1

[0051] One embodiment of the present invention, such as Figures 1 to 19 As shown, a foldable photovoltaic array is disclosed, including a support assembly and photovoltaic modules 2. The support assembly includes a cabinet 1 and a frame, with the frame housed within the cabinet 1. The frame includes a first frame 3, a second frame 4, and a third frame 5, which are hinged end-to-end. The first frame 3, the second frame 4, and the third frame 5 can be folded together and stored in the cabinet 1 for easy transportation. When unfolded, the first frame 3, the second frame 4, and the third frame 5 form a flat surface to support the photovoltaic modules 2.

[0052] In this embodiment, the photovoltaic array frame can be easily stored and folded into a cabinet, resulting in a compact layout, small footprint, and convenient mobile transportation. The photovoltaic modules adopt a modular design and are integrally fixed with the support assembly, allowing the photovoltaic modules to be carried and used independently.

[0053] Specifically, the top of the first frame 3 is hinged to the top of the second frame 4, and the bottom of the second frame 4 is hinged to the bottom of the third frame 5. In the folded state, the third frame 5 is flush against the rear panel of the cabinet 1, and the first frame 3, the second frame 4, and the third frame 5 are flush against each other, minimizing the space occupied by the frames after they are folded up.

[0054] Furthermore, such as Figures 1 to 4 As shown, the cabinet 1 is a cuboid structure with five enclosed sides. The front side of the cuboid is not enclosed, and the frame enters or exits the cabinet 1 from the front side when it is retracted or extended. The top of the left and right side panels of the cabinet 1 is provided with a first sliding groove 7, and the top of the third frame 5 is provided with a third roller 51, which can slide within the first sliding groove 7. When the frame is retracted, the third roller 51 is located at the rear of the first sliding groove 7. When the frame is extended, the third roller 51 can slide along the first sliding groove 7 to the front of the first sliding groove 7.

[0055] In this embodiment, the arrangement of the first slide groove and the third roller can, on the one hand, limit the range of movement of the frame during the process of frame storage and unfolding, making it easier to position the frame during unfolding and storage; on the other hand, the friction between the first slide groove and the third roller is rolling friction, which has a small friction force, making the unfolding and storage process quick and effortless.

[0056] Furthermore, such as Figure 4 As shown, in order to fix the frame inside the cabinet 1 after it is stored, locking parts 6 are provided on the top two sides of the first frame 3 and on the left and right side panels of the cabinet 1. The locking parts 6 include a fixed part and a movable part, which are respectively installed on the top two sides of the first frame 3 and on the left and right side panels of the cabinet 1.

[0057] For example, the locking component 6 is a latch lock, with the buckle and fixing part installed on the first frame 3 and the locking tongue on the cabinet 1. When the frame is retracted, the buckle is fastened to the locking tongue, thereby fixing the frame and the cabinet 1.

[0058] After the frame is stored, in order to further fix the frame, the bracket assembly of this embodiment is also provided with a clamping rod 8. The two ends of the clamping rod 8 are connected to the left side plate and the right side plate of the cabinet 1 respectively, thereby confining the frame inside the cabinet 1.

[0059] For example, the two ends of the clamping rod 8 are connected to the cabinet 1 by bolts. After the frame is stored, the two ends of the clamping rod 8 are fixedly connected to the cabinet 1 by bolts. When the frame needs to be unfolded, the bolts are unscrewed to remove the clamping rod 8.

[0060] Alternatively, one end of the clamping rod 8 is hinged to the cabinet 1, and the other end is fixed to the cabinet 1 by a latch. When the frame needs to be unfolded, the clamping rod 8 is rotated around the hinge fulcrum to release the frame.

[0061] In this embodiment, as Figure 5 The support assembly shown also includes a ground platform 11, which can be folded and stored inside the cabinet 1. When unfolded, the ground platform 11 can dock with the bottom plate of the cabinet 1. Both the bottom plate of the cabinet 1 and the side of the ground platform 11 are equipped with guide rails, and the guide rails of the bottom plate and the ground platform 11 can be connected as one unit after the ground platform 11 docks with the bottom plate.

[0062] Furthermore, the bottom of the first frame 3 is provided with a first roller 31, and the middle of the left and right sides of the second frame 4 are each hinged with a support rod 41, and the bottom of the support rod 41 is provided with a second roller 42. During the unfolding and folding of the frame, the first roller 31 and the second roller 42 can slide within the guide rails of the base plate and the ground platform 11, which facilitates the unfolding and folding of the frame.

[0063] In this implementation, the total gravitational potential energy of the first frame 3, the second frame 4 and the third frame 5 remains basically unchanged during the unfolding process. During the unfolding process, only the friction between the moving components needs to be overcome. Moreover, the friction between the frame and the cabinet 1 is rolling friction, which has a small frictional force, and the unfolding process is quick and effortless.

[0064] Furthermore, such as Figure 6As shown, to provide more stable support for the photovoltaic module 2, the support assembly in this embodiment also includes photovoltaic panel support rods 9 and connecting rods 10. When unfolded, the photovoltaic panel support rods 9 and connecting rods 10 form a frame structure to support the unfolded photovoltaic module 2.

[0065] Specifically, each of the first frame 3, the second frame 4 and the third frame 5 has two photovoltaic panel support rods 9 on both sides. One end of the photovoltaic panel support rod 9 is hinged to the side of the frame, and the other end is locked to the side of the frame through a locking structure.

[0066] For example, the locking structure is a spring with an arc-shaped groove. The spring is fixed to the side of the frame. One end of the photovoltaic panel support rod 9 is hinged to the side of the frame, and the other end is a free end with an arc-shaped end face. Pressing the free end of the photovoltaic panel support rod 9 into the arc-shaped groove of the spring can lock the photovoltaic panel support rod 9.

[0067] In this embodiment, the photovoltaic panel support rod 9 is connected to the frame via a 90° hinge, and when the photovoltaic panel support rod 9 is unfolded, it can form a 90° angle with the side of the frame. After the photovoltaic panel support rod 9 is unfolded, the free ends of the two photovoltaic panel support rods 9 located on the same side of the same frame are connected by a connecting rod 10, so that the two photovoltaic panel support rods 9, the connecting rod 10 and the side of the frame together form a frame structure to support the photovoltaic module 2.

[0068] For example, the connecting rod 10 has non-removable screws at both ends. When the connecting rod 10 is stored, it is fixed to the frame. When the photovoltaic panel support rod 9 is unfolded, the connecting rod 10 is fixedly connected to the two photovoltaic panel support rods 9 by the non-removable screws to form a frame structure.

[0069] Furthermore, in order to fix the photovoltaic module, the connecting rod 10 is also provided with a pressure plate 101. The middle part of the pressure plate 101 is rotatably connected to the connecting rod 10. The two ends of the pressure plate 101 are upturned. When the photovoltaic module 2 is unfolded, the pressure plate 101 is rotated so that the length direction of the pressure plate 101 is consistent with the length direction of the connecting rod 10. The two ends of the pressure plate 101 respectively press the two adjacent cells in the photovoltaic module 2.

[0070] Furthermore, in order to improve the stability of the frame after it is deployed, the support assembly in this embodiment is also provided with diagonal bracing 13 and side bracing 12.

[0071] Specifically, one end of the diagonal brace 13 is supported on the third frame 5, and the other end is supported on the cabinet 1. One end of the side brace 12 is supported on the second frame 4, and the other end is fixedly connected to the ground.

[0072] In this embodiment, as Figures 9 to 11As shown, a mounting plate 14 is provided on the frame for connecting the photovoltaic module 2. The bottom of the mounting plate 14 is hinged to the support assembly of the frame, allowing the mounting plate 14 to be flipped upwards at a certain angle relative to the frame. The upper part of the mounting plate 14 is fixedly connected to the frame with screws. When installing the photovoltaic module 2, the mounting plate 14 is first flipped upwards at a certain angle. After the photovoltaic module 2 is installed, the mounting plate 14 and the photovoltaic module 2 are then flipped downwards, and the upper part of the mounting plate 14 is fixedly connected to the frame.

[0073] Furthermore, the mounting plate 14 has T-shaped sliding strips 141 on both sides, and the photovoltaic module 2 has a T-shaped second sliding groove 15 at the bottom. The sliding strips 141 can be inserted into the second sliding groove to connect the photovoltaic module 2 and the mounting plate 14.

[0074] Furthermore, a stepped locking pin 142 is provided at the top of the mounting plate 14 along the length of the slide bar 141. The locking pin 142 passes through the mounting plate 14, with the stepped head of the locking pin 142 located on the front side of the mounting plate 14 and the hand-tightening part of the locking pin 142 located on the back side of the mounting plate 14. The locking pin 142 and the mounting plate 14 are connected by a threaded pair. When the photovoltaic module 2 is installed, the stepped head of the locking pin 142 slides into the second slide groove 15 of the photovoltaic module 2. By screwing the hand-tightening part of the locking pin 142 on the back side of the mounting plate 14, the stepped head of the locking pin 142 presses the second slide groove 15 of the photovoltaic module 2 against the mounting plate 14, thereby fixing the photovoltaic module 2.

[0075] In this embodiment, as Figures 12 to 19 As shown, the photovoltaic module 2 includes a photovoltaic panel 21, such as Figure 13 As shown, when the photovoltaic panel is folded, the photovoltaic panel 21 includes, from top to bottom, a first photovoltaic panel 211, a second photovoltaic panel 212, a third photovoltaic panel 213, a fourth photovoltaic panel 214, and a fifth photovoltaic panel 215.

[0076] Specifically, one end of the first photovoltaic panel 211 is movably connected to one end of the fifth photovoltaic panel 215, and the first photovoltaic panel 211 and the fifth photovoltaic panel 215 serve as the top and bottom of the photovoltaic panel 21, respectively, housing the second photovoltaic panel 212, the third photovoltaic panel 213, and the fourth photovoltaic panel 214 within the internal space formed by the first photovoltaic panel 211 and the fifth photovoltaic panel 215; the other end of the first photovoltaic panel 211 is movably connected to one end of the second photovoltaic panel 212; the other end of the fifth photovoltaic panel 215 is movably connected to one end of the third photovoltaic panel 213, housing the fourth photovoltaic panel 214 within the internal space formed by the fifth photovoltaic panel 215 and the third photovoltaic panel 213; the other end of the third photovoltaic panel 213 is movably connected to one end of the fourth photovoltaic panel 214.

[0077] The photovoltaic module 2 also includes a first locking member 22, a second locking member 23 and a plurality of sliding locking members 24. The first locking member 22 and the second locking member 23 are used to lock the photovoltaic panel 21 when folded, which is convenient for handling; the sliding locking member 24 is used to lock the photovoltaic module 2 when unfolded, and fix the unfolded photovoltaic panel 21.

[0078] In this embodiment, the photovoltaic panel 21 is folded and stored in a box-like shape, divided into front and back sides and left and right sides. The front and back sides are the directions in which the photovoltaic panel 21 is unfolded; the left and right sides are the directions perpendicular to the front and back sides. The first locking member 22 is installed on the front and back sides of the photovoltaic panel 21, and the second locking member 23 and the sliding locking member 24 are installed on the left and right sides of the photovoltaic panel 21. The present invention locks the photovoltaic panel 21 with the first locking member 22 and the second locking member 23, and locks the photovoltaic panel 21 from four sides, so that it is not easy to loosen when folded and stored.

[0079] like Figures 14 to 17 As shown, the first locking member 22 is installed on the side of the third photovoltaic panel 213, and the first locking member 22 locks the third photovoltaic panel 213 and the second photovoltaic panel 212.

[0080] Specifically, the third photovoltaic panel 213 has a placement groove 213a on its side, and the first locking member 22 is hinged to one end of the placement groove 213a. When it is necessary to lock the third photovoltaic panel 213 and the second photovoltaic panel 212, the first locking member 22 is rotated to a vertical position. When it is necessary to unfold the third photovoltaic panel 213 and the second photovoltaic panel 212, the first locking member 22 is rotated to a horizontal position and placed in the placement groove 213a. The first locking member 22 includes a pressing plate 221, which includes a fixed end 221a. The fixed end 221a has a through hole, and the through hole is hinged to one end of the placement groove 213a by a bolt.

[0081] Furthermore, the placement groove 213a is arc-shaped, which facilitates the removal of the first locking member 22 from the placement groove 213a.

[0082] The first locking element 22 also includes an abutment plate 222 and a spring piece 223.

[0083] In this embodiment, the pressing plate 221 is further provided with a first connecting end and a first movable end; the abutment plate 222 is provided with a second connecting end and a second movable end; the first connecting end and the second connecting end are fixedly connected, and the pressing plate 221 and the abutment plate 222 can rotate around a fixed axis; the spring piece 223 is V-shaped, divided into a first spring edge and a second spring edge, the V head of the spring piece 223 passes around the fixed axis, the first spring edge is fixedly connected to the first movable end of the pressing plate 221, and the second spring edge is fixedly connected to the second movable end of the abutment plate 222. When the first movable end and the second movable end are squeezed together, the pressing plate 221 and the abutment plate 222 rotate and overlap around the axis. At this time, the first spring edge and the second spring piece are close to each other, and the spring piece 223 is in a pressed state; when the external force is removed, due to the elastic force of the spring piece 223 itself, the first spring edge and the second spring edge automatically move away from each other. At this time, the pressing plate 221 and the abutment plate 222 rotate and separate around the fixed axis and then abut and fix the third photovoltaic panel 213 and the second photovoltaic panel 212.

[0084] Furthermore, the spring 223 also includes a spring, one end of which is connected to the first spring edge and the other end of which is connected to the second spring edge. Since the spring is in a compressed state, when the second photovoltaic panel 212 and the third photovoltaic panel 213 are in a locked state, the spring expands outward. The elastic force between the pressing plate 221 and the abutting plate 222 is jointly exerted by the expansion force between the first spring and the second spring and the expansion force of the spring, thereby improving the connection stability.

[0085] The process of releasing and locking the third photovoltaic panel 213 and the second photovoltaic panel 212 is as follows:

[0086] (1) Pinch the first movable end and the second movable end together, press the plate 221 and the abutment plate 222 to rotate around the axis and overlap. At this time, the first spring piece and the second spring piece are close to each other, the spring piece 223 is in the pressed state, the vertical first locking member 22 rotates around the bolt axis of the through hole and the placement groove 213a to the horizontal state, and the first locking member 22 is placed in the placement groove 213a. This process is to release the third photovoltaic panel 213 and the second photovoltaic panel 212.

[0087] (2) Rotate the first locking piece 22 out of the placement groove 213a with force. When the first locking piece 22 changes from a horizontal state to a vertical state, remove the external force. Due to the elastic force of the spring piece 223 itself and the spring expansion force, the first spring piece and the second spring piece automatically move away from each other. At this time, the pressing plate 221 and the abutting plate 222 rotate around the axis and separate. When the bottom of the second movable end of the vertical abutting plate 222 abuts against the second photovoltaic panel 212, this process locks the third photovoltaic panel 213 and the second photovoltaic panel 212.

[0088] like Figure 12 and Figure 18As shown, the second locking member 23 is used to lock the first photovoltaic panel 211, the third photovoltaic panel 213, the fourth photovoltaic panel 214 and the fifth photovoltaic panel 215, thereby locking the photovoltaic panel 21.

[0089] The second locking member 23 includes a first locking part 231, a second locking part 232, a third locking part 233, and a fourth locking part 234; the first locking part 231 and the second locking part 232 are respectively engaged with the first photovoltaic panel 211 and the fifth photovoltaic panel 215 for locking; the third locking part 233 and the fourth locking part 234 are respectively engaged with the second photovoltaic panel 212 and the third photovoltaic panel 213 for locking.

[0090] Specifically, the first clamping part 231 and the second clamping part 232 are respectively provided with a first and a second clamping strip, the first photovoltaic panel 211 and the fifth photovoltaic panel 215 are respectively provided with a first and a second clamping slot, and the first and second clamping strips are respectively engaged with the first and second clamping slots to clamp; the third clamping part 233 and the fourth clamping part 234 are respectively provided with a first and a second clamping block, the second photovoltaic panel 212 and the third photovoltaic panel 213 are respectively provided with a third and a fourth clamping slot, and the first and second clamping blocks are respectively engaged with the third and fourth clamping slots to clamp.

[0091] In this embodiment, as Figure 18 As shown, the first locking part 131 and the second locking part 232 are located on the upper and lower sides of the second locking member 23, and the third locking part 233 and the fourth locking part 234 are located at the outermost end of the second locking member 23. The first locking part 231 and the second locking part 232 slide into the first and second slots, respectively, and stop when the first and second locking parts are engaged with the third and fourth slots, thereby facilitating the sliding and locking of the second locking member 23. When it is necessary to unfold the photovoltaic panel 21, the second locking member 23 can be slid outwards and stored for future use. When the first photovoltaic panel 211, the second photovoltaic panel 212, the third photovoltaic panel 213, the fourth photovoltaic panel 214, and the fifth photovoltaic panel 215 are unfolded, a first sliding groove, a second sliding groove, a third sliding groove, and a fourth sliding groove are respectively provided on both sides of the movable connecting shaft between the first photovoltaic panel 211 and the second photovoltaic panel 212, the first photovoltaic panel 211 and the fifth photovoltaic panel 215, the fifth photovoltaic panel 215 and the third photovoltaic panel 214, and the fourth photovoltaic panel 214 and the third photovoltaic panel 213.

[0092] like Figure 19As shown, the first sliding groove is divided into a first section and a second section that are connected. The first section is set on the first photovoltaic panel 211, and the second section is set on the second photovoltaic panel 212. The second section is provided with a first locking groove 243. The sliding locking component 24 includes a sliding rod 241 and a sliding locking block 242. The sliding rod 241 slides in cooperation with the first sliding groove. The sliding locking block 242 is provided with a fixed locking end and a movable locking piece. The fixed locking end is fixed to the sliding rod 241. The fixed locking end is provided with a movable locking piece mounting groove. One end of the movable locking piece is fixedly connected to the movable locking piece mounting groove. The other end of the movable locking piece is provided with a protrusion that cooperates with the first locking groove 243. The movable locking end can cooperate with the first locking groove 243 to lock.

[0093] Specifically, when the sliding rod 241 is in the first section of the first sliding groove, the movable locking piece tilts outward. When the movable rod 241 is slid to the second section by external force until the protrusion on the movable locking piece reaches the first locking groove 243, the protrusion pops into the first locking groove 243. At this time, the part of the movable rod 241 with the sliding locking block 242 is in the second section of the first sliding groove, and the part of the movable rod 241 without the sliding locking block 242 is in the first section of the first sliding groove, thereby fixing the movable connecting shaft of the first photovoltaic panel 211 and the second photovoltaic panel 212.

[0094] Furthermore, the sliding rod 241 is provided with two sliding locking blocks 242, and a second locking groove is also provided in the first section of the first sliding groove. One sliding locking block 242 is engaged with the first locking groove 243, and the other sliding locking block 242 is engaged with the second locking groove. At this time, both the first and second sections of the first sliding groove are locked, thereby enhancing the locking stability of the first photovoltaic panel 211 and the second photovoltaic panel 212.

[0095] Similarly, the movable connecting shafts between the first photovoltaic panel 211 and the fifth photovoltaic panel 215, the fifth photovoltaic panel 215 and the fourth photovoltaic panel 214, and the fourth photovoltaic panel 214 and the third photovoltaic panel 213 are also locked in the same way as the movable connecting shaft between the first photovoltaic panel 211 and the second photovoltaic panel 212.

[0096] In this embodiment, the photovoltaic module adopts a modular design and is fixed to the frame as a whole, so that the photovoltaic module can be carried and used independently.

[0097] Example 2

[0098] One embodiment of the present invention discloses a method for unfolding a foldable photovoltaic array according to Embodiment 1, specifically including the following steps:

[0099] Step 1: Lay the ground platform 11 on the ground and unfold the frame;

[0100] First, a ground platform 11 is laid on the ground, with its guide rails aligned with those of the base plate. Then, the locking rod 8 and locking element 6 are released, and the first frame 3 is pulled outwards. Driven by the first frame 3, the bottom rollers of the first frame 3 and the bottom rollers of the support rod 41 of the second frame 4 roll in the guide rails, and the frame gradually unfolds. Since the support rod 41 is hinged to the middle of the side of the second frame 4, the total gravitational potential energy of the frame remains essentially constant throughout the unfolding process. Therefore, the unfolding process only requires overcoming the frictional work between the moving components, making the unfolding process quick and effortless.

[0101] Step 2: Install diagonal brace 13 and side brace 12;

[0102] like Figure 6 As shown, one end of the diagonal brace 13 is supported on the third frame 5, and the other end is supported on the cabinet 1. One end of the side brace 12 is supported on the second frame 4, and the other end is fixed to the ground.

[0103] Step 3: Unfold the photovoltaic panel support rod 9;

[0104] like Figure 6 As shown, the photovoltaic panel support rods 9 are flipped open from both sides of the frame, and the connecting rods 10 are removed from the inside of the frame and connected to the two photovoltaic panel support rods 9. Thus, the two photovoltaic panel support rods 9, the connecting rods 10 and the side of the frame together form a frame structure to support the photovoltaic modules.

[0105] Step 4: Unfold photovoltaic module 2;

[0106] like Figure 7 As shown, the photovoltaic modules installed on the frame are unfolded, and the sliding locking piece 24 on the side of the photovoltaic panel frame is pushed to slide towards the adjacent photovoltaic panel to fix the two adjacent photovoltaic panels relative to each other. Then, the photovoltaic panel frame and the connecting rod 10 are pressed together by the pressure plate 101 set on the connecting rod 10.

[0107] In summary, the embodiments of the present invention provide a foldable photovoltaic array and its unfolding method. The frame of the photovoltaic array can be folded and stored in a cabinet, with a compact layout, small space occupation, and convenient for mobile transportation. During the unfolding process, the total gravitational potential energy of the frame remains basically unchanged. Therefore, the unfolding process only needs to overcome the friction between the moving components, making the unfolding process quick and effortless. The photovoltaic modules adopt a modular design and are fixed to the frame as a whole, allowing the photovoltaic modules to be carried and used independently.

[0108] The above description is only a preferred embodiment of the present invention, but the scope of protection of the present invention is not limited thereto. Any changes or substitutions that can be easily conceived by those skilled in the art within the scope of the technology disclosed in the present invention should be included within the scope of protection of the present invention.

Claims

1. A foldable photovoltaic array, characterized in that, The system includes a photovoltaic module (2), a cabinet (1), and a frame. The frame is housed in the cabinet (1). The frame includes a first frame (3), a second frame (4), and a third frame (5) that are hinged together from end to end. The first frame (3), the second frame (4), and the third frame (5) can be folded together. Two photovoltaic panel support rods (9) are provided on each side of the first frame (3), the second frame (4), and the third frame (5). The photovoltaic module (2) includes a folded photovoltaic panel (21). The photovoltaic array also includes a ground platform (11), which is connected to the bottom plate of the cabinet (1). The side of the ground platform (11) and the bottom plate of the cabinet (1) are both provided with guide rails. The first frame (3) is provided with a first roller (31) at the bottom, and the second frame (4) is hinged with a support rod (41) at the middle of the left and right sides. The support rod (41) is provided with a second roller (42) at the bottom. During the unfolding and folding of the frame, the first roller (31) and the second roller (42) can slide in the guide rail of the base plate and the ground platform (11). The photovoltaic array also includes a connecting rod (10). The photovoltaic panel support rod (9) and the connecting rod (10) can form a frame structure after being unfolded. After the photovoltaic panel support rod (9) is unfolded, the free ends of the two photovoltaic panel support rods (9) located on the same side of the same frame are connected by the connecting rod (10). The photovoltaic array also includes a diagonal brace (13) and a side brace (12). One end of the diagonal brace (13) is supported on the third frame (5) and the other end is supported on the cabinet (1). One end of the side brace (12) is supported on the second frame (4) and the other end is fixedly connected to the ground. The frame is provided with a mounting plate (14), and the mounting plate (14) is provided with slide bars (141) with a cross-section of T on both sides. The bottom of the photovoltaic module (2) is provided with a second slide groove (15) that cooperates with the slide bars (141).

2. The foldable photovoltaic array according to claim 1, characterized in that, The top of the left and right side panels of the cabinet (1) is provided with a first slide groove (7), and the top of the third frame (5) is provided with a third roller (51), which can slide in the first slide groove (7).

3. The foldable photovoltaic array according to claim 1, characterized in that, It also includes a locking element (6) and a clamping rod (8), the locking element (6) being located at the top of the first frame (3) and the clamping rod (8) being located at the bottom of the first frame (3).

4. The foldable photovoltaic array according to claim 1, characterized in that, The mounting plate (14) is also provided with a stepped locking pin (142) at the top along the length direction of the slide bar (141), and the locking pin (142) passes through the mounting plate (14).

5. A method for deploying a foldable photovoltaic array according to any one of claims 1-4, characterized in that, Includes the following steps: Step 1: Lay a ground platform (11) on the ground and unfold the frame; Step 2: Install the diagonal brace (13) and the side brace (12); Step 3: Unfold the photovoltaic panel support rod (9); Step 4: Unfold the photovoltaic modules (2).

Images