Bracket Connector, Photovoltaic Tracking Bracket

Abstract

This application relates to a bracket connector and a photovoltaic tracking bracket. The bracket connector includes: a column, a bearing seat and a shaft connection structure; the bearing seat is fixed to the top of the column; a first bearing is arranged in the bearing seat; the shaft connection structure passes through the bearing seat and is rotatably connected to the bearing seat through the first bearing; both ends of the shaft connection structure are respectively used for connecting with the ends of the main beam segments of two adjacent bracket modules of the photovoltaic tracking bracket, and the shaft connection structure allows the main beam segments of two adjacent bracket modules to rotate relative to each other. In this way, modular splicing of the photovoltaic tracking bracket is realized through the bracket connector, and each bracket module operates independently, so that any number of bracket modules can be spliced, and furthermore, the length of the photovoltaic tracking bracket can be adjusted according to the actual terrain requirements, and the design of the photovoltaic tracking bracket scheme can be quickly and flexibly matched according to the terrain. The bracket module and the bracket connector become standardized products, realizing product standardization, reducing the types of parts, and improving the installation efficiency.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This application relates to the technical field of photovoltaic equipment, particularly to support connectors and photovoltaic tracking supports. Background Art

[0002] A photovoltaic tracking support generally includes a main beam, multiple columns supporting the main beam, and a driving mechanism for driving the main beam to rotate. Photovoltaic modules are installed on the main beam, and the angle of the photovoltaic modules can be adjusted by driving the main beam to rotate through the driving mechanism. Since the length of the main beam is relatively long, generally multiple main beam segments are provided first, and the multiple main beam segments are connected in sequence to assemble a complete main beam.

[0003] Existing photovoltaic tracking systems are generally divided into single-point drive systems and multi-point drive systems. In a single-point drive system, a driving mechanism is used to drive the main beam to rotate, so that multiple main beam segments rotate synchronously. As the power and size of photovoltaic modules gradually increase, longer photovoltaic tracking supports are required, that is, longer main beams are required. However, the driving force and holding force of a single driving mechanism are limited and cannot meet the requirements of a longer photovoltaic tracking support. Therefore, currently, the multi-point drive system is the main solution. In a multi-point drive system, multiple driving mechanisms are used to drive multiple main beam segments to rotate respectively.

[0004] Usually, the construction site of a photovoltaic project has an irregular shape. In order to make full use of the site resources to install more photovoltaic modules, photovoltaic tracking supports with different lengths will be arranged, resulting in a large number of on-site component specifications, complex stocking, and low installation efficiency. At the same time, the scheme design of the photovoltaic tracking support cannot be quickly and flexibly matched according to the actual terrain. Summary of the Invention

[0005] Based on this, in view of the technical problems in the prior art that usually the construction site of a photovoltaic project has an irregular shape. In order to make full use of the site resources to install more photovoltaic modules, photovoltaic tracking supports with different lengths will be arranged, resulting in a large number of on-site component specifications, complex stocking, and low installation efficiency. At the same time, the scheme design of the photovoltaic tracking support cannot be quickly and flexibly matched according to the actual terrain, it is necessary to provide a support connector and a photovoltaic tracking support.

[0006] A support connector, the support connector includes: a column, a bearing seat, and a shaft connection structure; the bearing seat is fixed on the top of the column; a first bearing is arranged in the bearing seat; the shaft connection structure passes through the bearing seat and is rotatably connected to the bearing seat through the first bearing; both ends of the shaft connection structure are respectively used for connecting to the ends of the main beam segments of two adjacent support modules of the photovoltaic tracking support, and the shaft connection structure allows the main beam segments of the two adjacent support modules to rotate relative to each other.

[0007] In one embodiment, the shaft connection structure includes a first shaft and a second shaft. The first shaft includes a first extending section and a first connection section connected axially. The second shaft includes a second extending section and a second connection section connected axially. The first extending section extends into the bearing seat and is rotatably connected to the bearing seat through the first bearing. The second extending section extends into the first extending section and is rotatably connected to the first extending section through a second bearing. The second connection section and the first connection section are respectively connected to the ends of the main beam sections of the adjacent two support modules.

[0008] In one embodiment, a first flange extending circumferentially is provided on the outer peripheral surface of the first shaft, and a second flange extending circumferentially is provided on the outer peripheral surface of the second shaft. The bearing seat is located between the first flange and the second flange.

[0009] In one embodiment, sealing rings are provided between both ends of the inner side wall of the bearing seat and the outer side wall of the first extending section.

[0010] In one embodiment, a sealing ring is provided between the inner side wall of one end of the first extending section far from the first connection section and the outer side wall of the second extending section.

[0011] In one embodiment, the support connector further includes a first snap ring. One end of the first extending section far from the first connection section extends out of the bearing seat. The first snap ring is snap-fitted around the outer periphery of one end of the first extending section far from the first connection section, and the first snap ring abuts against one side of the bearing seat far from the first connection section.

[0012] In one embodiment, the inner side wall of the bearing seat has a first stop boss, and the outer wall of the first extending section has a first shaft shoulder. The first shaft shoulder abuts against the first stop boss in a direction away from the first connection section.

[0013] In one embodiment, the support connector further includes a second snap ring. The second snap ring is snap-fitted around the outer periphery of one end of the second extending section far from the second connection section. The inner side wall of the first shaft has a first limiting boss, and the second snap ring abuts against one side of the first limiting boss far from the second connection section.

[0014] In one embodiment, the inner side wall of the first shaft has a second stop boss, and the outer wall of the second extending section has a second shaft shoulder. The second shaft shoulder abuts against the second stop boss in a direction away from the second connection section.

[0015] In one embodiment, the inner sidewall of the first shaft has a third stop boss; the outer wall of the second insertion section has a third shoulder, and the third shoulder abuts against the third stop boss in a direction away from the second connection section; the third shoulder is located on a side of the second shoulder close to the second connection section.

[0016] A photovoltaic tracking bracket includes the bracket connector according to any one of the above embodiments and at least two bracket modules. A single bracket module includes a main beam section, a column supporting the main beam section, and a driving mechanism for driving the main beam section to rotate; both ends of the shaft connection structure are respectively connected to the ends of the main beam sections of two adjacent bracket modules, and the shaft connection structure allows the main beam sections of the two adjacent bracket modules to rotate relative to each other.

[0017] A bracket connector includes: a column, a bearing seat, and a shaft connection structure; the bearing seat is fixed to the top of the column; a first bearing is arranged in the bearing seat; the shaft connection structure passes through the bearing seat and is rotatably connected to the bearing seat through the first bearing; both ends of the shaft connection structure are respectively used for connecting to the ends of the main beam sections of two adjacent bracket modules of a photovoltaic tracking bracket, and the shaft connection structure allows the main beam sections of the two adjacent bracket modules to rotate relative to each other;

[0018] Wherein, the bearing seat is provided with a limiting structure, the shaft connection structure is provided with a matching structure, and the limiting structure is arranged on the rotation path of the matching structure so that the limiting structure can block the matching structure at both ends of the rotation range of the matching structure.

[0019] In one embodiment, the limiting structure includes a first limiting surface and a second limiting surface, and the matching structure includes a first matching surface and a second matching surface; the matching structure has a first extreme angle and a second extreme angle at both ends of the rotation range; when the matching structure is at the first extreme angle, the first matching surface abuts against the first limiting surface, and when the matching structure is at the second extreme angle, the second matching surface abuts against the second limiting surface; along the rotation direction of the matching structure, the orientation of the second matching surface is opposite to that of the first matching surface.

[0020] In one embodiment, the bearing seat is provided with a limiting groove, the first limiting surface and the second limiting surface are respectively the groove walls at both circumferential ends of the limiting groove; the matching structure is a boss protruding from the sidewall of the shaft connection structure, and the first matching surface and the second matching surface are respectively the surfaces at both circumferential ends of the boss.

[0021] In the above-mentioned bracket connector and photovoltaic tracking bracket, the modularization of the photovoltaic tracking bracket can be realized, so that the photovoltaic tracking bracket can be divided into at least two sequentially connected bracket modules, and adjacent two bracket modules are connected by the above-mentioned bracket connector. A single bracket module includes a main beam section, a column supporting the main beam section, and a driving mechanism for driving the main beam section to rotate. Define two adjacent bracket modules as the first bracket module and the second bracket module respectively. The main beam section of the first bracket module is the first main beam section, and the main beam section of the second bracket module is the second main beam section. Both ends of the shaft connection structure are respectively connected to one end of the first main beam section and one end of the second main beam section, and the shaft connection structure allows the first main beam section and the second main beam section to rotate relative to each other. Since the shaft connection structure passes through the bearing seat and is rotatably connected to the bearing seat through the first bearing, the shaft connection structure can rotate relative to the column, and thus is supported by the top of the column via the bearing seat.

[0022] In this way, the modular splicing of the photovoltaic tracking bracket is realized through the bracket connector, and each bracket module can operate independently of each other. Therefore, any number of bracket modules can be spliced, and then the length of the photovoltaic tracking bracket can be adaptively adjusted according to the actual terrain requirements, and the scheme design of the photovoltaic tracking bracket can be quickly and flexibly matched according to the terrain. At the same time, the bracket module and the bracket connector both become standardized products, realizing product standardization, reducing the types of parts, and improving the installation efficiency.

[0023] Wind tunnel testing is used to provide support and guidance for the design and calculation of photovoltaic tracking bracket products. Since the modular splicing of the photovoltaic tracking bracket is realized through the bracket connector in this application, and each bracket module is a standardized product, therefore, when conducting wind tunnel testing, only some bracket modules in the photovoltaic tracking bracket need to be tested, and it is not necessary to test all combinations of bracket modules one by one, saving wind tunnel testing costs and manpower.

[0024] In the multi-point drive system in the prior art, two adjacent main beam sections can rotate relative to each other through a spindle connector. Therefore, compared with rigid connection, the connection stiffness of the spindle connector is lower and the bending resistance is lower. In order to ensure the bending resistance of the main beam, it is necessary to make the distance between the two columns on both sides of the spindle connector closer to provide better support and thus enhance the bending resistance. However, this limits the span of the photovoltaic tracking bracket and it is difficult to achieve the adjustment of a large span.

[0025] However, when the bracket connector of the present application is applied to a photovoltaic tracking bracket, since the bracket connector is located at the connection of two adjacent bracket modules, the shaft connection structure is supported by the column top through the bearing seat, so that the connection of two adjacent bracket modules can be supported by the column of the bracket connector, greatly improving the bending resistance of the connection of two adjacent bracket modules, and further reducing the requirement for the column spacing on both sides of the bracket connector, facilitating the adjustment of a larger span. Since the span can be increased, the number of columns used is saved, and the structure of the photovoltaic tracking bracket is simplified and the cost is reduced.

[0026] Compared with the single-point drive system in the prior art, in the embodiment of the present application, since the main beam segments of two adjacent bracket modules can rotate relative to each other through the shaft connection structure, the requirement for the synchronization of the drive mechanisms of two adjacent bracket modules is eliminated, so that two adjacent bracket modules can operate independently of each other without affecting each other. If a certain bracket module fails, it will not affect the normal operation of other bracket modules, reducing the scope of the fault, and the fault location can be accurately positioned and it is convenient to repair the fault location alone. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0027] Figure 1 Schematic diagram of the connection relationship between the bracket connector of an embodiment and the main beam segments of two adjacent bracket modules.

[0028] Figure 2 For Figure 1 structural exploded view.

[0029] Figure 3 For Figure 1 front view.

[0030] Figure 4 For Figure 3 partial enlarged view of area A in

[0031] Figure 5 Partial structural exploded view of the bracket connector of another embodiment.

[0032] Figure 6 For Figure 5 left view of the bearing seat in

[0033] Figure 7 For Figure 6 cross-sectional view of the bearing seat.

[0034] Figure 8 For Figure 5 left view of the first shaft in

[0035] Figure 9 For Figure 5 right view of the second shaft in

[0036] Description of the attached reference numerals: 10, main beam segment; 11, first main beam segment; 12, second main beam segment; 100, column; 110, connecting plate; 200, bearing seat; 210, first bearing; 220, second bearing; 300, shaft connection structure; 310, first shaft; 311, first extending segment; 312, first connecting segment; 313, first flange; 320, second shaft; 321, second extending segment; 322, second connecting segment; 323, second flange; 410, first sealing ring; 420, second sealing ring; 430, third sealing ring; 510, first snap ring; 520, second snap ring; 610, first stop boss; 620, first shaft shoulder; 630, second stop boss; 630, first limiting boss; 640, second shaft shoulder; 650, third stop boss; 660, third shaft shoulder; 700, limiting groove; 710, first limiting surface; 720, second limiting surface; 800, mating structure; 810, first mating surface; 820, second mating surface. Detailed implementation manners

[0037] To make the above objects, features, and advantages of the present application more apparent and understandable, the following detailed description of the specific implementation manners of the present application is provided in conjunction with the accompanying drawings. Many specific details are set forth in the following description to facilitate a thorough understanding of the present application. However, the present application can be implemented in many other ways different from those described herein, and those skilled in the art can make similar improvements without departing from the connotation of the present application. Therefore, the present application is not limited by the specific embodiments disclosed below.

[0038] In the description of the present application, it should be understood that if terms such as "center", "longitudinal", "transverse", "length", "width", "thickness", "upper", "lower", "front", "rear", "left", "right", "vertical", "horizontal", "top", "bottom", "inner", "outer", "clockwise", "counterclockwise", "axial", "radial", "circumferential", etc. appear, the orientation or positional relationship indicated by these terms is based on the orientation or positional relationship shown in the accompanying drawings. These are only for the convenience of describing the present application and simplifying the description, and do not indicate or imply that the device or element referred to must have a specific orientation, be constructed and operated in a specific orientation. Therefore, it should not be construed as a limitation to the present application.

[0039] In addition, if terms such as "first" and "second" appear, these terms are only for descriptive purposes and cannot be understood as indicating or implying relative importance or implicitly specifying the quantity of the indicated technical features. Thus, features defined with "first" and "second" may explicitly or implicitly include at least one of such features. In the description of the present application, if the term "plurality" appears, the meaning of "plurality" is at least two, such as two, three, etc., unless otherwise specifically defined.

[0040] In this application, unless otherwise clearly defined and limited, if terms such as "installed", "connected", "linked", "fixed", etc. appear, these terms should be understood in a broad sense. For example, it can be a fixed connection, a detachable connection, or integrated; it can be a mechanical connection or an electrical connection; it can be directly connected or indirectly connected through an intermediate medium, and it can be the communication inside two components or the interaction relationship between two components, unless otherwise clearly defined. For those of ordinary skill in the art, the specific meanings of the above terms in this application can be understood according to specific circumstances.

[0041] In this application, unless otherwise clearly defined and limited, if there is a description such as the first feature being "on" or "under" the second feature, its meaning can be that the first and second features are in direct contact, or the first and second features are indirectly in contact through an intermediate medium. Moreover, the first feature being "above", "over" and "on top of" the second feature can be that the first feature is directly above or obliquely above the second feature, or just means that the first feature is at a higher horizontal level than the second feature. The first feature being "under", "beneath" and "underneath" the second feature can be that the first feature is directly below or obliquely below the second feature, or just means that the first feature is at a lower horizontal level than the second feature.

[0042] It should be noted that if an element is referred to as being "fixed to" or "disposed on" another element, it can be directly on the other element or there can also be an intermediate element. If an element is considered to be "connected" to another element, it can be directly connected to the other element or there may be an intermediate element at the same time. If any, the terms "vertical", "horizontal", "up", "down", "left", "right" and similar expressions used in this application are only for the purpose of illustration and do not represent the only implementation.

[0043] Please refer to Figures 1 to 4 , an embodiment of this application provides a bracket connector, which includes: a column 100, a bearing seat 200 and a shaft connection structure 300. The bearing seat 200 is fixed to the top of the column 100. A first bearing 210 is arranged inside the bearing seat 200. The shaft connection structure 300 passes through the bearing seat 200 and is rotatably connected to the bearing seat 200 through the first bearing 210. Both ends of the shaft connection structure 300 are respectively used for connecting to the ends of the main beam segments 10 of two adjacent bracket modules of the photovoltaic tracking bracket, and the shaft connection structure 300 allows the main beam segments 10 of two adjacent bracket modules to rotate relative to each other.

[0044] The above-mentioned bracket connector is applied to a photovoltaic tracking bracket, which can realize the modularization of the photovoltaic tracking bracket, so that the photovoltaic tracking bracket can be divided into at least two successively connected bracket modules, and adjacent bracket modules are connected by the above-mentioned bracket connector. A single bracket module includes a main beam section 10, a column supporting the main beam section 10, and a driving mechanism for driving the main beam section 10 to rotate. Two adjacent bracket modules are respectively defined as a first bracket module and a second bracket module. The main beam section 10 of the first bracket module is a first main beam section 11, and the main beam section 10 of the second bracket module is a second main beam section 12. Both ends of the shaft connection structure 300 are respectively connected to one end of the first main beam section 11 and one end of the second main beam section 120, and the shaft connection structure 300 allows the first main beam section 11 and the second main beam section 12 to rotate relative to each other. Since the shaft connection structure 300 passes through the bearing seat 200 and is rotationally connected to the bearing seat 200 through the first bearing 210, the shaft connection structure 300 can rotate relative to the column 100, and thus is supported by the top of the column 100 via the bearing seat 200.

[0045] In this way, the modular splicing of the photovoltaic tracking bracket is realized through the bracket connector, and each bracket module can operate independently of each other. Therefore, any number of bracket modules can be spliced, and then the length of the photovoltaic tracking bracket can be adaptively adjusted according to the actual terrain requirements, and the scheme design of the photovoltaic tracking bracket can be quickly and flexibly matched according to the terrain. At the same time, the bracket module and the bracket connector both become standardized products, realizing product standardization, reducing the types of components, and improving the installation efficiency. Wind tunnel testing is used to provide support and guidance for the design and calculation of photovoltaic tracking bracket products. Since the modular splicing of the photovoltaic tracking bracket is realized through the bracket connector in this application and each bracket module is a standardized product, when conducting wind tunnel testing, only some bracket modules in the photovoltaic tracking bracket need to be tested, and there is no need to test all the combinations of bracket modules one by one, saving the cost and manpower of wind tunnel testing.

[0046] In the multi-point drive system in the prior art, two adjacent main beam sections can rotate relative to each other through a spindle connector. Therefore, compared with rigid connection, the connection stiffness of the spindle connector is lower and the bending resistance performance is lower. In order to ensure the bending resistance of the main beam, it is necessary to make the distance between the two columns on both sides of the spindle connector relatively close to provide better support and thus enhance the bending resistance. However, this limits the span of the photovoltaic tracking bracket and it is difficult to achieve the adjustment of a large span.

[0047] However, when the bracket connector of the present application is applied to a photovoltaic tracking bracket, since the bracket connector is located at the connection of two adjacent bracket modules, the shaft connection structure 300 is supported by the top of the column 100 via the bearing seat 200, so that the connection of two adjacent bracket modules can be supported by the column 100 of the bracket connector, greatly improving the bending resistance of the connection of two adjacent bracket modules, and further reducing the requirement for the column spacing on both sides of the bracket connector, facilitating the adjustment of a larger span. Since the span can be increased, the number of columns used is saved, and further the structure of the photovoltaic tracking bracket is simplified and the cost is reduced.

[0048] Compared with the single-point drive system in the prior art, in the embodiment of the present application, since the main beam segments of two adjacent bracket modules can rotate relative to each other through the shaft connection structure 300, the requirement for the synchronism of the drive mechanisms of two adjacent bracket modules is eliminated, so that two adjacent bracket modules can operate independently of each other without affecting each other. If a certain bracket module fails, it will not affect the normal operation of other bracket modules, reducing the scope of the fault, and moreover, the fault location can be accurately positioned and it is convenient to repair the fault location alone.

[0049] Combined Figures 1 to 4 , in an embodiment, the shaft connection structure 300 includes a first shaft 310 and a second shaft 320. The first shaft 310 includes a first extending section 311 and a first connecting section 312 connected along the axial direction. The second shaft 320 includes a second extending section 321 and a second connecting section 322 connected along the axial direction. The second connecting section 322 and the first connecting section 312 are respectively connected to the ends of the main beam segments 10 of two adjacent bracket modules. Specifically, the second connecting section 322 is connected to one end of the second main beam segment 12, and the first connecting section 312 is connected to one end of the first main beam segment 11. The first extending section 311 extends into the bearing seat 200 and is rotatably connected to the bearing seat 200 through a first bearing 210, so that the first main beam segment 11 can rotate relative to the bearing seat 200, that is, rotate relative to the column 100. The second extending section 321 extends into the first extending section 311 and is rotatably connected to the first extending section 311 through a second bearing 220, so that the second main beam segment 12 can rotate relative to the first extending section 311, that is, the second main beam segment 12 can rotate relative to the first main beam segment 11. In this way, the relative rotation of the main beam segments 10 of two adjacent bracket modules is realized, and the shaft connection structure 300 is supported by the top of the column 100 via the bearing seat 200.

[0050] Compared with the form of a single shaft tube in the prior art CN218449976U, in the shaft connection structure 300 of the embodiment of the present application, since the second extending section 321 extends into the first extending section 311 for rotational connection and the first extending section 311 extends into the bearing seat 200 for rotational connection, a shaft connection structure 300 with a nested layer-by-layer structure is formed, and the bending resistance is better.

[0051] In one embodiment, both the first shaft 310 and the second shaft 320 are hollow shaft tubes, which serve to reduce weight and cost.

[0052] Specifically, both the first insertion section 311 and the second insertion section 321 are circular tubular, facilitating the rotational connection between them and the rotational connection between the first insertion section 311 and the bearing seat 200.

[0053] As Figure 1 and Figure 2 shown, in one embodiment, the main beam section 10 (the first main beam section 11 and the second main beam section 12) is a square tube structure. Both the first connection section 312 and the second connection section 322 are square tube structures to adapt to the shapes of the first main beam section 11 and the second main beam section 12. Specifically, the first connection section 312 is inserted into one end of the first main beam section 11, and is adapted to the shape of the lumen of the first main beam section 11, and the two are fixedly connected by fasteners such as bolts. The second connection section 322 is inserted into one end of the second main beam section 12, and is adapted to the shape of the lumen of the second main beam section 12, and the two are fixedly connected by fasteners such as bolts.

[0054] In other embodiments, the first connection section 312 and the second connection section 322 are not limited to being square tubes, and can also be in the shapes of circular tubes, octagonal tubes, etc., as long as they can be adapted to the shapes of the lumen of the first main beam section 11 and the lumen of the second main beam section 12.

[0055] As Figure 2 and Figure 4 shown, in one embodiment, a first flange 313 extending circumferentially is provided on the outer peripheral surface of the first shaft 310, and a second flange 323 extending circumferentially is provided on the outer peripheral surface of the second shaft 320. The bearing seat 200 is located between the first flange 313 and the second flange 323. Since the bearing seat 200 is blocked between the first flange 313 and the second flange 323, rainwater can be minimized from entering the bearing seat 200 from both sides, thereby reducing the erosion of the bearing and the shaft connection structure 300. Especially when the photovoltaic tracking bracket is installed on a slope, the main beam is inclined, the bracket connector is inclined, and the first flange 313 and the second flange 323 can try to block rainwater from pouring into the bearing seat 200.

[0056] As Figure 2 and Figure 4 shown, in one embodiment, seals are provided between the two ends of the inner side wall of the bearing seat 200 and the outer side wall of the first insertion section 311, namely the first seal ring 410 and the second seal ring 420, respectively, so as to minimize the entry of rainwater and air into the space between the bearing seat 200 and the first insertion section 311 and cause erosion to the first insertion section 311 and the first bearing 210.

[0057] As Figure 2 andFigure 4 As shown, in one embodiment, the bracket connector includes a first snap spring 510. One end of the first extending section 311 away from the first connecting section 312 extends out of the bearing housing 200. The first snap spring 510 is clamped around the outer periphery of the end of the first extending section 311 away from the first connecting section 312, and the first snap spring 510 abuts against the side of the bearing housing 200 away from the first connecting section 312, so as to prevent the first shaft 310 from shifting in the direction of pulling out of the bearing housing 200.

[0058] As Figure 4 shown, in one embodiment, the inner side wall of the bearing housing 200 has a first stop boss 610, and the outer wall of the first extending section 311 has a first shoulder 620. The first shoulder 620 abuts against the first stop boss 610 in the direction away from the first connecting section 312, so that the first stop boss 610 can prevent the first shaft 310 from shifting in the direction of inserting into the bearing housing 200.

[0059] As Figure 2 and Figure 4 shown, in one embodiment, a sealing ring, which is the third sealing ring 430, is provided between the inner side wall of the end of the first extending section 311 away from the first connecting section 312 and the outer side wall of the second extending section 321, so as to prevent rainwater from entering between the first extending section 311 and the second extending section 321 as much as possible, causing erosion to both of them and the second bearing 220.

[0060] As Figure 2 and Figure 4 shown, in one embodiment, the bracket connector further includes a second snap spring 520. The second snap spring 520 is clamped around the outer periphery of the end of the second extending section 321 away from the second connecting section 322. The inner side wall of the first shaft 310 has a first limiting boss 630, and the second snap spring 520 abuts against the side of the first limiting boss 630 away from the second connecting section 322, so as to prevent the second shaft 320 from shifting in the direction of pulling out of the first extending section 311.

[0061] As Figure 4 shown, in one embodiment, the inner side wall of the first shaft 310 has a second stop boss 630, and the outer wall of the second extending section 321 has a second shoulder 640. The second shoulder 640 abuts against the second stop boss 630 in the direction away from the second connecting section 322, so as to prevent the second shaft 320 from shifting in the direction of inserting into the first extending section 311. Moreover, the cooperation between the second shoulder 640 and the second stop boss 630 can also play a role in blocking rainwater, thereby reducing the setting of the sealing ring.

[0062] As Figure 4 shown, in one embodiment, the second stop boss 630 and the first limiting boss 630 can be shared.

[0063] As Figure 4 shown, in one embodiment, the inner wall of the first shaft 310 has a third stop boss 650. The outer wall of the second insertion section 321 has a third shoulder 660. The third shoulder 660 abuts against the third stop boss 650 in a direction away from the second connection section 322, so as to further prevent the second shaft 320 from shifting in position in the direction of inserting into the first insertion section 311. The cooperation between the third shoulder 660 and the third stop boss 650 can also play a role in blocking rainwater, thereby reducing the setting of the sealing ring. The third shoulder 660 is located on one side of the second shoulder 640 close to the second connection section 322. By sequentially arranging shoulders, multi-level limiting is formed, which reliably prevents the second shaft 320 from shifting in position in the direction of inserting into the first insertion section 311. Moreover, the effect of blocking rainwater is further enhanced.

[0064] As Figure 2 and Figure 4 shown, in one embodiment, the bracket connector includes a connecting plate 110. The connecting plates 110 are respectively and fixedly arranged on both sides of the top of the column 100. The two ends of the bottom of the bearing seat 200 are respectively fixedly connected to the connecting plates 110 on both sides of the column 100, so that the bottom of the bearing seat 200 can be better attached to the top of the column 100 as a whole, and reliable fixed connection can be achieved between the connecting plate 110 and the column 100.

[0065] When the photovoltaic tracking system encounters strong wind weather, it is necessary to drive the main beam to rotate to the wind-resistant protection angle through the driving mechanism to reduce the risk of damage to the photovoltaic modules. At present, the photovoltaic tracking bracket mainly relies on the holding force of the driving mechanism to hold the main beam at the wind-resistant protection angle to resist the external wind load. Therefore, the requirements for the specifications of the driving mechanism are high, and the cost of the driving mechanism is relatively high.

[0066] Please refer to Figure 5 , an embodiment of the present application further provides a bracket connector, which includes: a column, a bearing seat 200 and a shaft connection structure. The bearing seat 200 is fixed on the top of the column. A first bearing 210 is arranged in the bearing seat 200. The shaft connection structure passes through the bearing seat 200 and is rotatably connected to the bearing seat 200 through the first bearing 210. The two ends of the shaft connection structure are respectively used for connecting to the ends of the main beam sections of two adjacent bracket modules of the photovoltaic tracking bracket, and the shaft connection structure allows the main beam sections of the two adjacent bracket modules to rotate relative to each other. The bracket connector of this embodiment is basically the same as the bracket connector of the previous embodiment, so it has the same technical effects as the previous embodiment, which will not be elaborated here. The differences between the bracket connector of this embodiment and the bracket connector of the previous embodiment will be mainly introduced below.

[0067] Among them, the bearing seat 200 is provided with a limiting structure, and the shaft connection structure 300 is provided with a matching structure 800. The limiting structure is arranged on the rotation path of the matching structure 800 so that the limiting structure can block the matching structure 800 at both ends of the rotation range of the matching structure 800.

[0068] Since the matching structure 800 is arranged on the shaft connection structure 300, the rotation of the matching structure 800 can follow the rotation of the shaft connection structure 300. Since the limiting structure is arranged on the rotation path of the matching structure 800, the limiting structure limits the rotation range of the matching structure 800. That is to say, when the matching structure 800 rotates to both ends of its rotation range, it is blocked by the limiting structure, thus limiting the two extreme rotation angles (the first extreme angle and the second extreme angle) of the matching structure 800, and its rotation range is between the two extreme rotation angles. It can be understood that when the matching structure 800 is at the first extreme angle, the limiting structure blocks the matching structure 800 from rotating in the first direction. When the matching structure 800 is at the second extreme angle, the limiting structure blocks the matching structure 800 from rotating in the second direction. The second direction and the first direction are opposite rotation directions, one is the clockwise direction and the other is the counterclockwise direction when one of them is the clockwise direction.

[0069] When the photovoltaic tracking bracket is in use, when the wind load causes the main beam to have a tendency to rotate in the first direction, the first extreme angle is used as the wind resistance protection angle, that is to say, the main beam section is rotated to the first extreme angle. Since the matching structure 800 is arranged on the shaft connection structure 300 and the shaft connection structure 300 is connected to the main beam section, the matching structure 800 also rotates to the first extreme angle. When the matching structure 800 is at the first extreme angle, the limiting structure blocks the matching structure 800 from rotating in the first direction, thereby preventing the main beam section from rotating in the first direction. In this way, the reaction force of the limiting structure on the matching structure 800 can resist the torque in the first direction caused by the wind load on the main beam section, thereby increasing the wind resistance of the photovoltaic tracking bracket and reducing the requirements and costs for the driving mechanism.

[0070] Similarly, when the photovoltaic tracking bracket is in use, when the wind load causes the main beam to have a tendency to rotate in the second direction, the second extreme angle is used as the wind resistance protection angle, that is to say, the main beam section is rotated to the second extreme angle. Since the matching structure 800 is arranged on the shaft connection structure 300 and the shaft connection structure 300 is connected to the main beam section, the matching structure 800 also rotates to the second extreme angle. When the matching structure 800 is at the second extreme angle, the limiting structure blocks the matching structure 800 from rotating in the second direction, thereby preventing the main beam section from rotating in the second direction. In this way, the reaction force of the limiting structure on the matching structure 800 can resist the torque in the second direction caused by the wind load on the main beam section, thereby increasing the wind resistance of the photovoltaic tracking bracket and reducing the requirements and costs for the driving mechanism.

[0071] Meanwhile, two adjacent support modules can still rotate relative to each other through the support connector, thereby allowing for the asynchrony of the drive mechanisms of the two adjacent support modules.

[0072] Combined Figures 5 to 9 , in one embodiment, the limiting structure includes a first limiting surface 710 and a second limiting surface 720, and the mating structure 800 includes a first mating surface 810 and a second mating surface 820. The mating structure 800 has a first extreme angle and a second extreme angle at both ends of the rotation range. When the mating structure 800 is at the first extreme angle, the first mating surface 810 abuts against the first limiting surface 710, and when the mating structure 800 is at the second extreme angle, the second mating surface 820 abuts against the second limiting surface 720. Along the rotation direction of the mating structure 800, the orientation of the second mating surface 820 is opposite to that of the first mating surface 810. It can be understood that the orientation of the first mating surface 810 is along the first direction in the above embodiment, and the orientation of the second mating surface 820 is along the second direction in the above embodiment.

[0073] When the mating structure 800 is at the first extreme angle, the first mating surface 810 abuts against the first limiting surface 710, so that the first limiting surface 710 can block the first mating surface 810 from continuing to rotate in the first direction, that is, block the mating structure 800 from continuing to rotate in the first direction, thereby preventing the main beam section from rotating in the first direction. Therefore, the abutting force of the first limiting surface 710 on the first mating surface 810 can resist the torque in the first direction caused by the wind load on the main beam section. Similarly, when the mating structure 800 is at the second extreme angle, the second mating surface 820 abuts against the second limiting surface 720, so that the second limiting surface 720 can block the second mating surface 820 from continuing to rotate in the second direction, that is, block the mating structure 800 from continuing to rotate in the second direction, thereby preventing the main beam section from rotating in the second direction. Therefore, the abutting force of the second limiting surface 720 on the second mating surface 820 can resist the torque in the second direction caused by the wind load on the main beam section. Through the limiting structure and the mating structure 800 of this embodiment, it is convenient for the limiting structure to block the mating structure 800 at both ends of the rotation range of the mating structure 800, and the abutting force of the limiting structure on the mating structure 800 can effectively resist the torque caused by the wind load on the main beam section.

[0074] In one embodiment, the bearing housing 200 is provided with a limiting groove 700, and the first limiting surface 710 and the second limiting surface 720 are respectively the groove walls at the circumferential two ends of the limiting groove. The mating structure 800 is a boss protruding from the side wall of the shaft connection structure 300, and the first mating surface 810 and the second mating surface 820 are respectively the surfaces at the circumferential two ends of the boss. That is to say, the mating structure 800 (boss) rotates within the limiting groove 700, and the extending length of the limiting groove 700 is the rotation range of the mating structure 800. When the mating structure 800 rotates to the two ends of the limiting groove, it abuts against the groove walls at the two ends of the limiting groove respectively, thereby limiting the two extreme rotation angles of the mating structure 800. The design of the limiting structure and the mating structure in this embodiment is simple and the cooperation is reliable.

[0075] In other embodiments, it may also be that a limiting groove is formed on the shaft connection structure, the first mating surface and the second mating surface are respectively the groove walls at the circumferential two ends of the limiting groove, a boss is provided on the bearing housing, and the first limiting surface and the second limiting surface are respectively the surfaces at the circumferential two ends of the boss.

[0076] Combined Figures 5 to 8 , in one embodiment, limiting structures are respectively provided at both ends of the bearing housing 200. The first shaft 310 and the second shaft 320 are respectively provided with a mating structure 800. The limiting structure at one end of the bearing housing 200 cooperates with the mating structure 800 on the first shaft 310. The limiting structure at the other end of the bearing housing 200 cooperates with the mating structure 800 on the second shaft 320.

[0077] In this way, by the limiting structure at one end of the bearing housing 200 blocking the mating structure 800 at both ends of the rotation range of the mating structure 800 on the first shaft 310, the abutting force of the limiting structure on the mating structure 800 can effectively resist the torque caused by the wind load on the main beam segment connected to the first shaft 310. Similarly, by the limiting structure at the other end of the bearing housing 200 blocking the mating structure 800 at both ends of the rotation range of the mating structure 800 on the second shaft 320, the abutting force of the limiting structure on the mating structure 800 can effectively resist the torque caused by the wind load on the main beam segment connected to the second shaft 320. At the same time, the first shaft 310 and the second shaft 320 can still rotate relative to each other, so as to allow the asynchrony between the driving mechanisms of the support module connected to the first shaft 310 and the driving mechanisms of the support module connected to the second shaft 320.

[0078] In Figure 5 In the illustrated embodiment, the limiting structure is provided on the axial end face of the bearing housing. In other embodiments, the limiting structure may also be provided on the inner side wall of the bearing housing.

[0079] An embodiment of the present application further provides a photovoltaic tracking bracket, which includes the bracket connector in any one of the above embodiments and at least two bracket modules. A single bracket module includes a main beam section 10, a column supporting the main beam section 10, and a driving mechanism for driving the main beam section 10 to rotate. Both ends of the shaft connection structure 300 are respectively connected to the ends of the main beam sections 10 of two adjacent bracket modules, and the shaft connection structure 300 allows the main beam sections 10 of two adjacent bracket modules to rotate relative to each other.

[0080] The technical features of the above embodiments can be combined arbitrarily. For the sake of concise description, not all possible combinations of the technical features in the above embodiments are described. However, as long as there is no contradiction in the combination of these technical features, it should be considered as the scope recorded in this specification.

[0081] The above embodiments only represent several implementation manners of the present application. The description is relatively specific and detailed, but it should not be construed as a limitation on the scope of the patent application. It should be noted that for those of ordinary skill in the art, without departing from the concept of the present application, several deformations and improvements can be made, and these all belong to the protection scope of the present application. Therefore, the protection scope of the patent of the present application should be subject to the appended claims.

Claims

1. A bracket connector, characterized in that The bracket connector includes: a column, a bearing seat and a shaft connection structure; the bearing seat is fixed to the top of the column; a first bearing is arranged in the bearing seat; the shaft connection structure passes through the bearing seat and is rotatably connected to the bearing seat through the first bearing; two ends of the shaft connection structure are respectively used for connecting with ends of main beam segments of two adjacent bracket modules of a photovoltaic tracking bracket, and the shaft connection structure allows the main beam segments of the two adjacent bracket modules to rotate relative to each other; The shaft connection structure includes a first shaft and a second shaft. The first shaft includes a first extending section and a first connection section connected axially; the second shaft includes a second extending section and a second connection section connected axially; the first extending section extends into the bearing seat and is rotatably connected to the bearing seat through the first bearing; the second extending section extends into the first extending section and is rotatably connected to the first extending section through a second bearing; the second connection section and the first connection section are respectively connected with ends of main beam segments of the two adjacent bracket modules.

2. The stent connector according to claim 1, wherein A first flange extending circumferentially is arranged on an outer peripheral surface of the first shaft, and a second flange extending circumferentially is arranged on an outer peripheral surface of the second shaft; the bearing seat is located between the first flange and the second flange.

3. The stent connector according to claim 1, wherein Sealing rings are arranged between inner side walls at two ends of the bearing seat and outer side walls of the first extending section; and / or, A sealing ring is arranged between an inner side wall of one end of the first extending section away from the first connection section and an outer side wall of the second extending section.

4. The stent connector according to claim 1, wherein It further includes a first circlip. One end of the first extending section away from the first connection section extends out of the bearing seat. The first circlip is clamped around an outer periphery of one end of the first extending section away from the first connection section, and the first circlip abuts against a side of the bearing seat away from the first connection section.

5. The bracket connector according to claim 1, characterized in that, The inner side wall of the bearing seat has a first stop boss, and the outer wall of the first extending section has a first shoulder. The first shoulder abuts against the first stop boss in a direction away from the first connection section.

6. The bracket connector according to claim 1, characterized in that, It further includes a second circlip. The second circlip is clamped around an outer periphery of one end of the second extending section away from the second connection section; a first limiting boss is arranged on an inner side wall of the first shaft, and the second circlip abuts against a side of the first limiting boss away from the second connection section.

7. The stent connector according to claim 1, wherein A second stop boss is arranged on an inner side wall of the first shaft, and a second shoulder is arranged on an outer wall of the second extending section. The second shoulder abuts against the second stop boss in a direction away from the second connection section.

8. A bracket connector, characterized in that, The bracket connector includes: a column, a bearing seat and a shaft connection structure; the bearing seat is fixed to the top of the column; a first bearing is arranged in the bearing seat; the shaft connection structure passes through the bearing seat and is rotatably connected to the bearing seat through the first bearing; two ends of the shaft connection structure are respectively used for connecting with ends of main beam segments of two adjacent bracket modules of a photovoltaic tracking bracket, and the shaft connection structure allows the main beam segments of the two adjacent bracket modules to rotate relative to each other; The shaft connection structure includes a first shaft and a second shaft. The first shaft includes a first insertion section and a first connection section connected axially. The second shaft includes a second insertion section and a second connection section connected axially. The first insertion section extends into the bearing housing and is rotatably connected to the bearing housing through the first bearing. The second insertion section extends into the first insertion section and is rotatably connected to the first insertion section through the second bearing. The second connection section and the first connection section are respectively connected to the ends of the main beam sections of the adjacent two support modules. Wherein, the bearing housing is provided with a limiting structure, and the shaft connection structure is provided with a matching structure. The limiting structure is arranged on the rotation path of the matching structure so that the limiting structure can block the matching structure at both ends of the rotation range of the matching structure.

9. The bracket connector according to claim 8, characterized in that The limiting structure includes a first limiting surface and a second limiting surface, and the matching structure includes a first matching surface and a second matching surface. The matching structure has a first limit angle and a second limit angle at both ends of the rotation range. When the matching structure is at the first limit angle, the first matching surface abuts against the first limiting surface. When the matching structure is at the second limit angle, the second matching surface abuts against the second limiting surface. Along the rotation direction of the matching structure, the orientation of the second matching surface is opposite to that of the first matching surface.

10. The stent connector according to claim 9, wherein, The bearing housing is provided with a limiting groove. The first limiting surface and the second limiting surface are respectively the groove walls at both circumferential ends of the limiting groove. The matching structure is a boss protruding from the side wall of the shaft connection structure. The first matching surface and the second matching surface are respectively the surfaces at both circumferential ends of the boss.

11. A photovoltaic tracking bracket, characterized in that, Including: The support connector according to any one of claims 1 to 10 and at least two support modules. Each support module includes a main beam section, a column supporting the main beam section, and a driving mechanism for driving the main beam section to rotate. Both ends of the shaft connection structure are respectively connected to the ends of the main beam sections of the adjacent two support modules, and the shaft connection structure allows the main beam sections of the adjacent two support modules to rotate relative to each other.

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