A photovoltaic tracking support system

Abstract

The application discloses a photovoltaic tracking support system, which comprises a master control module, a plurality of support communication nodes and a link diagnosis unit. Each support communication node corresponds to a photovoltaic tracking support body, and the photovoltaic tracking support body comprises a metal torque tube extending along the arrangement direction of a photovoltaic module. Adjacent photovoltaic tracking support bodies are connected through a communication cross-over wire, so that the metal torque tubes of the plurality of photovoltaic tracking support bodies form a continuous communication link in electrical communication. The master control module performs bidirectional signal transmission with each support communication node through the continuous communication link to send tracking control instructions and receive state information. The link diagnosis unit is used to obtain link response parameters from the master control module to each support communication node, and determine the state of the corresponding link section according to the link response parameters corresponding to different support communication nodes. The application can reduce additional communication wiring, improve system integration, communication reliability and operation and maintenance efficiency.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention relates to the field of photovoltaic power generation technology, and in particular to a photovoltaic tracking bracket system. Background Technology

[0002] With the continuous expansion of photovoltaic power plant installations, photovoltaic tracking brackets have been widely used because they can adjust the attitude of photovoltaic modules according to the sun's position and improve power generation efficiency. In large-scale photovoltaic tracking systems, multiple photovoltaic tracking brackets are usually set up along the module arrangement direction, and each bracket is driven to rotate synchronously or in groups through a drive mechanism. In order to achieve centralized control of multiple photovoltaic tracking brackets, existing systems generally need to establish control communication links between the brackets to complete the issuance of control commands, collection of operating status, and transmission of fault information.

[0003] In existing technologies, multi-node photovoltaic tracking brackets typically employ independent communication cables, bus cables, or wireless communication. Using independent communication cables results in longer cabling lengths, complex construction, and higher material and installation costs. Furthermore, long-term exposure to outdoor environments makes them susceptible to factors such as wind, sand, rain, temperature and humidity changes, and mechanical stress, leading to loose connections, insulation aging, or poor contact, thus affecting communication stability. When using wireless communication, in large-scale bracket array scenarios, it is easily affected by factors such as electromagnetic environment, obstruction conditions, networking distance, and node density, resulting in significant fluctuations in communication reliability.

[0004] Furthermore, the communication links of existing photovoltaic tracking bracket systems are usually independent of the bracket body structure. The metal components in the bracket mainly serve mechanical support and torque transmission functions, and are not effectively utilized as communication transmission channels. For multiple photovoltaic tracking brackets continuously distributed in the same row, the metal torque tubes extending along the module arrangement direction have the characteristics of continuous arrangement and good conductivity. However, the existing technology lacks a system solution that can utilize this type of metal structure to form a continuous communication link and realize centralized communication control of multiple nodes.

[0005] On the other hand, photovoltaic tracking brackets operate outdoors for extended periods, and issues such as loose connections, increased contact resistance, oxidation and corrosion, abnormal grounding, or changes in local coupling can easily arise at the connection points, bridging connections, and related conductive structures between brackets. These problems can not only affect communication quality but also further impact the stability of bracket control. However, current technologies for assessing the status of communication links are often limited to whether data can be transmitted and received normally, lacking technical means to analyze and assist in locating link segments based on link response characteristics. Therefore, when communication anomalies or performance degradation occur, it is difficult to promptly determine the location of the anomaly and its corresponding segment, causing inconvenience for system maintenance and troubleshooting.

[0006] It is evident that current multi-node photovoltaic tracking systems still have significant shortcomings in centralized control, status acquisition, and communication link monitoring. Therefore, there is an urgent need to develop a photovoltaic tracking system that can achieve centralized control and status acquisition of multi-node photovoltaic tracking systems, and can assist in determining the operating status of each link segment based on the response characteristics of the communication link, thereby effectively improving the system's communication integration, reliability, and maintainability. Summary of the Invention

[0007] To address the aforementioned technical problems, this invention provides a photovoltaic tracking bracket system, comprising a main control module, multiple bracket communication nodes, and a link diagnostic unit. Each of the aforementioned support communication nodes corresponds to a photovoltaic tracking support body. The photovoltaic tracking support body includes a metal torque tube extending along the photovoltaic module arrangement direction. The metal torque tube is a conductive metal transmission component used to transmit the output torque of the drive device to drive the photovoltaic module to track and rotate, and also serves as part of the conductive transmission channel for narrowband carrier communication on the same structure. A communication bridging wire is provided between adjacent photovoltaic tracking bracket bodies. The two ends of the communication bridging wire are respectively electrically connected to the metal torque tube of the adjacent photovoltaic tracking bracket body, so that the metal torque tubes of multiple photovoltaic tracking bracket bodies form an electrical connection structure that extends continuously along the arrangement direction, thereby forming a continuous narrowband carrier communication link within the row. The main control module accesses the continuous narrowband carrier communication link within the row through the narrowband carrier master station communication module, and performs bidirectional narrowband carrier communication through the conductive structure link formed by the metal torque tube and the communication jumper wire, so as to realize the issuance of control commands and the transmission of status information to multiple support communication nodes. The link diagnostic unit is used to obtain the link response parameters from the main control module to each support communication node, and based on the differences in the link response parameters corresponding to different support communication nodes, to segment and identify the continuous narrowband carrier communication links within the row, and to locate the anomalies to the metal torque tube section, the communication jumper wire or its electrical connection interface.

[0008] Each of the support communication nodes includes a node controller and a narrowband carrier node communication module. The narrowband carrier node communication module is used to realize the transmission and reception of narrowband carrier signals and modulation and demodulation between the node and the main control module. The node controller is used to parse the demodulated communication data and control the drive execution module to drive the corresponding photovoltaic tracking bracket body to perform tracking actions according to the parsing results. At the same time, it receives the attitude information collected by the attitude detection module and generates status information. The status information, after being modulated by the narrowband carrier node communication module, is transmitted back to the main control module through the continuous narrowband carrier communication link within the row under a communication mechanism of polling combined with time slot response.

[0009] The main control module includes a narrowband carrier master station communication module and a communication management unit. The communication management unit is used to identify, manage addresses, schedule communication, and summarize status information for multiple support communication nodes.

[0010] The support communication node also includes a drive execution module and an attitude detection module; The drive execution module is used to drive the corresponding photovoltaic tracking bracket body to perform tracking actions; The attitude detection module is used to collect the attitude parameters of the photovoltaic tracking bracket body and send the attitude parameters to the node controller.

[0011] The link response parameters include at least one of link attenuation parameters and reflection response parameters; The link attenuation parameter is used to characterize the signal transmission loss between the main control module and the corresponding support communication node; The reflection response parameter is used to characterize the echo changes caused by impedance discontinuities in the continuous communication link.

[0012] The link diagnostic unit is used to determine suspected abnormal link segments based on the differences in link response parameters corresponding to different support communication nodes, and to narrow down the abnormal range to the corresponding metal torque tube segment, communication jumper wire or connection part area based on the correspondence between support communication nodes, link segments and metal torque tube segments.

[0013] The link diagnostic unit confirms anomalies based on preset thresholds, historical trends, and / or multiple consecutive test results; when the offset of the link attenuation parameter relative to the reference value exceeds the first threshold multiple times consecutively, a link degradation warning is output; when the reflection response parameter exceeds the second threshold multiple times consecutively, a connection anomaly warning is output; when both the link attenuation parameter and the reflection response parameter are abnormal, the anomaly level is increased.

[0014] The main control module sends query frames to each support communication node in a preset address order through a communication management method that combines polling and time slot response. The corresponding support communication node returns status information within the allocated time slot, while the other support communication nodes remain silent. The main control module is also used to send time synchronization frames to multiple support communication nodes, so that the multiple support communication nodes can perform instruction reception, status feedback and tracking action control based on a unified time base.

[0015] The link diagnostic unit is used to jointly determine the anomaly type based on the link response parameters and the status information returned by multiple support communication nodes; the main control module is used to control the corresponding photovoltaic tracking support body to enter one of the following modes when it is determined that the structural connection anomaly or communication link anomaly is related to communication transmission: low-speed operation mode, local isolation mode, or safe shutdown mode.

[0016] For a photovoltaic power station containing multiple rows of photovoltaic tracking brackets, each row of photovoltaic tracking brackets forms its own independent continuous communication link through communication jumper wires between adjacent brackets; the main control module connects to the continuous communication links corresponding to different rows through multiple narrowband carrier master station communication modules, or selectively connects to the continuous communication links of different rows through a communication switching unit; and at least one communication jumper wire is set between two adjacent rows of photovoltaic tracking brackets for backup communication, fault switching or detection, and the continuous communication links corresponding to different rows are independent of each other under normal working conditions.

[0017] The beneficial effects of this invention are as follows: 1. A continuous communication link is formed by the metal torque tube of the photovoltaic tracking bracket body and the communication jumper wire between adjacent photovoltaic tracking bracket bodies. The main control module transmits bidirectional signals with each bracket communication node through the continuous communication link, thereby realizing centralized control and status information interaction of multiple photovoltaic tracking bracket bodies.

[0018] 2. The metal torque tube extending along the photovoltaic module arrangement direction in the photovoltaic tracking bracket body is used as a communication transmission channel, so that the metal torque tube has both structural force transmission and signal transmission functions, reducing the need for additional communication cable laying, which helps to reduce the complexity of system layout and improve system integration.

[0019] 3. The present invention sets up a link diagnosis unit to obtain the link response parameters from the main control module to each support communication node, and determines the status of the corresponding link segment according to the link response parameters of different support communication nodes, thereby facilitating the discovery of abnormal segments in continuous communication links and improving the link status identification capability. Attached Figure Description

[0020] Figure 1 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of the photovoltaic tracking bracket body in the embodiments of this application; Figure 2 This is a schematic diagram showing the position of the metal torque tube in an embodiment of this application; Figure 3 This is a schematic diagram showing the arrangement of the multi-row photovoltaic tracking bracket bodies in an embodiment of this application; Figure 4 This is a schematic diagram of the overall structure of the photovoltaic tracking bracket system according to an embodiment of the present invention; Figure 5A schematic diagram showing the composition of the main control module and the support communication nodes; Figure 6 This is a schematic diagram of the communication between multiple rows of continuous communication links and the main control module. Detailed Implementation

[0021] The present invention will be further described in detail below with reference to specific embodiments. It should be understood that the following embodiments are only used to explain the present invention and are not intended to limit the scope of protection of the present invention. All equivalent substitutions, improvements and modifications made within the spirit and principles of the present invention should be included within the scope of protection of the present invention.

[0022] Example 1: As Figure 1-6 As shown, a photovoltaic tracking bracket system is used to realize centralized control, status acquisition and link diagnosis of multi-node photovoltaic tracking brackets.

[0023] The photovoltaic tracking bracket system includes a main control module 100, multiple bracket communication nodes 200, and a link diagnostic unit 300. The multiple bracket communication nodes 200 are respectively set on multiple photovoltaic tracking bracket bodies 400, wherein each bracket communication node 200 corresponds to at least one photovoltaic tracking bracket body 400, and is used to drive and control the corresponding photovoltaic tracking bracket body 400 and collect its status.

[0024] The support communication node 200 includes a node controller 201, a narrowband carrier node communication module 202, a drive execution module 203, and an attitude detection module 204. The node controller 201 is electrically connected to the narrowband carrier node communication module 202, the drive execution module 203, and the attitude detection module 204. The narrowband carrier node communication module 202 is used to transmit and receive narrowband carrier signals and perform modulation and demodulation between this node and the main control module 100. The node controller 201 is used to parse the demodulated communication data and control the drive execution module 203 based on the parsing results, while also receiving and processing the attitude information and operating status information collected by the attitude detection module 204.

[0025] The main control module 100 includes a narrowband carrier master station communication module 101 and a communication management unit 102. The narrowband carrier master station communication module 101 is used to access the communication link and transmit and receive narrowband carrier signals with each support communication node 200; the communication management unit 102 is used to perform node identification, address management, communication scheduling, control command issuance and status information summary for multiple support communication nodes 200.

[0026] The link diagnostic unit 300 is used to acquire the link response parameters of the communication link and, based on these parameters, to perform auxiliary diagnosis on the structural connection status and / or communication link status related to communication transmission in the corresponding photovoltaic tracking bracket body 400. The link diagnostic unit 300 can be set independently or integrated into the main control module 100 as a functional unit. In one implementation, the link diagnostic unit 300 is located inside the main control module 100 and works in conjunction with the communication management unit 102 to perform link feature extraction, anomaly judgment, and early warning output.

[0027] like Figure 1-2 As shown, each photovoltaic tracking bracket body includes a metal torque tube 401 extending along the photovoltaic module arrangement direction. The metal torque tube 401 is a conductive metal transmission component in the photovoltaic tracking bracket body 400, used for transmission connection with the drive device, support component, and module mounting component to transmit the torque output by the drive device and drive the corresponding photovoltaic module to rotate. The metal torque tube 401 can be made of round tube, square tube, rectangular tube, or other conductive metal profiles that meet mechanical strength requirements, and its material can be steel, galvanized steel, aluminum alloy, or other conductive metal materials.

[0028] In this embodiment, the metal torque tube 401, in addition to serving as a mechanical transmission and structural support function, also serves as part of a narrowband carrier communication transmission channel to carry communication signals between the main control module 100 and multiple support communication nodes 200.

[0029] Communication bridging wires are installed between adjacent photovoltaic tracking bracket bodies 400 within the same row. The two ends of the communication bridging wires are electrically connected to the metal torque tubes 401 of the adjacent photovoltaic tracking bracket bodies 400, thereby forming an electrical connection between the metal torque tubes 401 of multiple photovoltaic tracking bracket bodies 400 within the same row, thus constituting a continuous communication link within the row. The main control module 100 accesses the continuous communication link within the row through a narrowband carrier master station communication module 101 to achieve centralized communication control, status acquisition, and link diagnosis of multiple bracket communication nodes 200 within the same row.

[0030] Specifically, the communication jumper wire can be connected to the preset terminal of the adjacent metal torque tube 401. An insulation protection module or surge protection module can also be installed at the connection point to improve communication stability and reduce the impact of external interference on link transmission.

[0031] To improve the transmission stability of the continuous communication link within the row in the narrowband carrier communication band, and to reduce the impact of additional grounding paths, parasitic loops, or spurious couplings on the link characteristics, insulation isolation is provided at the connection points of the metal torque tube 401. Insulation isolation can be achieved by installing insulating gaskets, insulating sleeves, insulating bushings, insulating isolators, or insulating coatings between the metal torque tube 401 and other metal components of the support, mounting supports, node mounting locations, and foundation connection points.

[0032] Insulation isolation is primarily used to improve electrical boundary conditions within communication frequency bands. In scenarios requiring safe grounding, lightning protection, or surge protection, independent grounding paths, surge discharge paths, or frequency-selective isolation structures can be additionally configured to balance communication performance and electrical safety. In some implementations, insulation isolation can manifest as equivalent high-impedance isolation for narrowband carrier communication bands, while under power frequency grounding, lightning protection, or surge impact conditions, safe conduction can be achieved through protection circuits, discharge devices, or frequency-selective networks. This embodiment does not limit the specific location, quantity, or implementation form of insulation isolation, as long as it improves the stability of link characteristic acquisition.

[0033] In this embodiment, the main control module 100 establishes communication connections with multiple support communication nodes 200 through an intra-row continuous communication link. The main control module 100, acting as the master station, sends control commands containing node address information to the intra-row continuous communication link via the narrowband carrier master station communication module 101. Upon receiving the control commands, the corresponding support communication node 200 undergoes signal demodulation by the narrowband carrier node communication module 202, and the node controller 201 parses the demodulated data to identify the control commands belonging to that node. Based on the parsing results, the node controller 201 controls the drive execution module 203 to execute support rotation, angle adjustment, or attitude correction actions.

[0034] To avoid communication conflicts caused by multiple support communication nodes 200 sending data simultaneously, the main control module 100 adopts a communication management method combining polling and time-slot response. Specifically, the main control module 100 sends query frames to each support communication node 200 in a preset address sequence. The corresponding node returns status information within the allocated time slot, while the other nodes remain silent. When it is necessary to issue unified control parameters to multiple nodes, the main control module 100 can also send broadcast frames or synchronization frames to improve the consistency of group control.

[0035] The attitude detection module 204 is used to collect the attitude parameters of the corresponding photovoltaic tracking bracket body 400. The attitude parameters may include at least one of the bracket rotation angle, angular velocity, pose change, and abnormal state information. The attitude detection module 204 may use a tilt sensor, angle encoder, inertial measurement device, or other attitude detection device, and this embodiment does not limit this.

[0036] The drive execution module 203 is used to drive the corresponding photovoltaic tracking bracket body 400 to perform tracking actions. The drive execution module 203 includes at least one of a motor, a reduction mechanism, a transmission mechanism, and a drive circuit. The node controller 201 controls the drive execution module 203 according to the target angle command, start / stop command, synchronization command, and diagnostic command issued by the main control module 100.

[0037] During the operation of the support structure, the attitude detection module 204 collects attitude parameters according to a preset sampling period. The node controller 201 processes the attitude parameters and forms the status information of the node. The status information may include one of the following: attitude parameters, operating parameters of the drive execution module 203, fault information, and node operating status. After being modulated by the narrowband carrier node communication module 202, the status information is transmitted back to the main control module 100 within the polling time slot. The main control module 100 determines the action execution status of the corresponding support communication node 200 based on the received status information and makes subsequent control adjustments based on the deviation between the target control parameters and the actual status information.

[0038] The main control module 100 is also used to send time synchronization frames to multiple support communication nodes 200, so that the multiple support communication nodes 200 can perform command reception, status feedback and tracking action control based on a unified time base. Specifically, the main control module 100 can periodically send time synchronization frames through the continuous communication link within the row. After receiving the time synchronization frame, each support communication node 200 corrects its local time base or control cycle, so that multiple photovoltaic tracking support bodies 400 in the same row can rotate synchronously, report status and switch operating modes under a unified time base, thereby improving the consistency of group control and reducing the asynchronous operation caused by node time base deviation.

[0039] After the system is powered on, the communication management unit 102 performs node discovery and address allocation for multiple support communication nodes 200. Each support communication node 200 pre-stores unique device identification information. During the initialization phase, the main control module 100 sends a discovery signal to the continuous communication link within the row. Each support communication node 200 returns device identification information according to a preset response mechanism. Based on this, the main control module 100 allocates a node logical address to each support communication node 200 and establishes a mapping relationship between the node logical address and the corresponding photovoltaic tracking support body 400.

[0040] In one implementation, the main control module 100 can also establish an association between node logical addresses, device unique identifiers, installation location identifiers, and link segment identifiers based on the historical communication characteristics, installation sequence information, and / or pre-calibrated link segment information of each support communication node 200. Based on this association, when subsequent link characteristics undergo abnormal changes, it can assist in determining the node location corresponding to the abnormality, the link segment between adjacent nodes, the corresponding metal torque tube 401 segment, or the connection location of the communication jumper wire, thereby improving the anomaly location capability. Even after node replacement, node address reassignment, or system maintenance, the consistency between the diagnostic location results and the actual installation location can be maintained through a rediscovery or rebinding mechanism.

[0041] The main control module 100 communicates with multiple support communication nodes 200 via a continuous communication link within the row. This continuous communication link sequentially passes through multiple metal torque tube 401 sections, communication jumper wires, and connection points. The link diagnostic unit 300 is used to acquire the link response parameters from the main control module 100 to each support communication node 200, and, based on the differences in the link response parameters corresponding to different support communication nodes 200, assists in identifying suspected abnormal link sections.

[0042] Link response parameters include one of link attenuation parameters and reflection response parameters. Link attenuation parameters characterize the signal transmission loss between the main control module 100 and the corresponding support communication node 200, while reflection response parameters characterize the echo changes caused by impedance discontinuities in the link. Reflection response parameters may include one of the following: echo peak amplitude, echo delay, echo energy, equivalent reflection coefficient, and combinations thereof.

[0043] The main control module 100 sends detection signals to each support communication node 200 and obtains the link attenuation parameters from the main control module 100 to the corresponding support communication node 200 based on the response signals returned by each support communication node 200. The detection signal can be any one or more combinations of a single-frequency detection signal, a swept-frequency detection signal, a pulse detection signal, or a pseudo-random sequence detection signal. The main control module 100 can also send reflection detection signals to the continuous communication links within the row and obtain the corresponding reflection response parameters based on the received echoes.

[0044] Specifically, the link attenuation parameter can be determined based on at least one of the following: transmit level, receive level, receive signal-to-noise ratio, bit error rate, number of retransmissions, and / or acknowledgment success rate; the reflection response parameter can be determined based on at least one of the following: amplitude, delay, energy, and / or waveform distortion degree of the reflected echo. This embodiment does not limit the specific calculation method for the link response parameters, as long as they can reflect changes in the link transmission state.

[0045] During system installation and commissioning, the correspondence between the support communication node 200, link segments, and metal torque tube 401 segments can be established in advance, and the baseline link response parameters during the installation and commissioning phase can be recorded. The baseline link response parameters can be obtained during the initial system installation, commissioning and acceptance, or normal and stable operation phases. The baseline link response parameters can also be corrected or updated based on ambient temperature, humidity, operating time, or historical statistical results.

[0046] The link diagnostic unit 300 uses the changes in link attenuation parameters from the main control module 100 to each support communication node 200 to help determine suspected abnormal link segments; and based on the corresponding relationship, it narrows down the suspected abnormal range to the corresponding metal torque tube 401 segment, communication jumper wire or connection near the connection point.

[0047] When the link attenuation parameter from the main control module 100 to the preceding support communication node 200 is within the reference range, but the link attenuation parameter to the following support communication node 200 deviates significantly from the reference range, it can be used to help estimate that the anomaly is located in the link segment between the preceding and following support communication nodes 200. If this link segment corresponds to a single metal torque tube 401, the anomaly range can be narrowed down to the segment of the metal torque tube 401 or its connection location.

[0048] When the reflection response parameter corresponding to a suspected abnormal link segment increases relative to the reference value, it can further assist in determining whether there is an impedance change within the link segment, and indicate a risk of contact abnormality at the corresponding connection point, the wiring position of the communication jumper wire, or the connection end of the metal torque tube 401. Contact abnormality risks may include at least one of the following: loose connection, increased contact resistance, end oxidation, local abnormal grounding, changes in insulation condition, or enhanced parasitic coupling.

[0049] In some implementations, the link diagnostic unit 300 confirms anomalies based on preset thresholds, historical trends, and multiple consecutive detection results to reduce the probability of misjudgment caused by transient noise, environmental fluctuations, or occasional communication interference. When the offset of the link attenuation parameter relative to the reference value exceeds the first threshold multiple times consecutively, a link degradation warning is output; when the reflection response parameter exceeds the second threshold multiple times consecutively, a connection anomaly warning is output; when both the link attenuation parameter and the reflection response parameter are abnormal, the anomaly level is increased and further protection controls are triggered.

[0050] The link diagnostic unit 300 jointly determines the anomaly type based on the link response parameters and the status information returned by multiple support communication nodes 200. When the main control module 100 determines that the anomaly is related to the structural connection or communication link, it performs protective control on the corresponding photovoltaic tracking support body 400. The protective control includes at least one of low-speed operation, partial isolation, or safe shutdown. In addition, it can also perform graded handling according to the anomaly level. For example, for minor anomalies, only alarms are issued and operation continues; for moderate anomalies, the operating speed of the corresponding node or group is reduced; and for severe anomalies, partial isolation or safe shutdown is performed.

[0051] In this embodiment, the main control module 100 and each support communication node 200 exchange data using narrowband carrier communication. Narrowband carrier communication refers to a communication method that modulates control commands, status information, or diagnostic information onto a carrier signal in a predetermined frequency band and transmits it through a conductive medium. The conductive medium includes at least the metal torque tube 401 in the photovoltaic tracking support body 400 and the communication bridging wires between adjacent supports, thereby forming a continuous communication link. Since the data transmitted in this system mainly consists of tracking control commands, attitude status information, drive operation information, and link diagnostic parameters, the overall data volume is relatively small, and the transmission bandwidth requirement is not high. Therefore, narrowband carrier communication can meet the system application requirements. Furthermore, the communication channel formed by the photovoltaic tracking support body 400 is not a standard uniform transmission line; its link contains connection points, changes in electrical parameters, and local impedance discontinuities. Compared to higher frequency communication methods, narrowband carrier communication is more suitable for achieving stable transmission on this type of metal conductive structure.

[0052] Furthermore, to improve the transmission stability of the narrowband carrier master station communication module 101 when communicating via the metal torque tube 401, the narrowband carrier master station communication module 101 can select the communication operating frequency band according to the link response parameters of the continuous communication link within the row. The continuous communication link within the row consists of multiple metal torque tubes 401, communication jumper wires, and connection parts. The narrowband carrier master station communication module 101 sends detection signals corresponding to multiple candidate frequency bands to the continuous communication link within the row and obtains the link response parameters corresponding to each candidate frequency band. The link response parameters include at least one of link attenuation parameters and reflection response parameters. Based on the link response parameters corresponding to each candidate frequency band, the narrowband carrier master station communication module 101 determines the target communication frequency band and performs narrowband carrier communication with multiple support communication nodes 200 under the target communication frequency band.

[0053] When the link attenuation parameter corresponding to the current operating frequency band deviates from the reference range, the reflection response parameter exceeds the preset threshold, or the node response success rate is lower than the preset threshold, the narrowband carrier master station communication module 101 re-executes candidate frequency band detection and re-determines the target communication frequency band. This improves the communication reliability between the master control module 100 and multiple support communication nodes 200.

[0054] Example 2: As Figure 3-6 As shown, for a photovoltaic power station comprising multiple rows of photovoltaic tracking bracket bodies 400, each row of photovoltaic tracking bracket bodies 400 can form its own independent intra-row continuous communication link through communication jumper wires between adjacent bodies. The main control module 100 accesses the corresponding intra-row continuous communication links of different rows through multiple narrowband carrier master station communication channels to achieve row-by-row control, row-by-row data acquisition, and row-by-row diagnosis of photovoltaic tracking bracket bodies 400. Alternatively, the main control module 100 can selectively connect to the intra-row continuous communication links of different rows through a communication switching unit to reduce the number of communication interfaces of the main control module 100 and improve system scalability.

[0055] Within each row, multiple support communication nodes 200 are divided into several groups, and the communication management unit 102 polls, broadcasts, controls, or diagnoses each group to adapt to different support layout structures and facilitates local isolation when an anomaly occurs in a certain group without affecting the normal operation of other groups.

[0056] The link diagnostic unit 300 correlates and analyzes the link response parameters with the attitude parameters, drive operation parameters, and fault information returned by the corresponding nodes. When the link response parameters are abnormal while the attitude parameters and drive execution parameters are basically normal, the risk of communication link degradation can be prioritized. When abnormal link response parameters and attitude abnormalities occur simultaneously, it can further indicate the risk of loose connections, poor contact, or transmission abnormalities in the corresponding support body. By jointly analyzing the link diagnostic results and the node operating status, the accuracy of anomaly identification can be improved.

[0057] During operation, the main control module 100 first completes node discovery, address allocation and mapping establishment of multiple support communication nodes 200 through the communication management unit 102, and then sends control commands to the continuous communication link within the row through the narrowband carrier master station communication module 101. After each support communication node 200 receives the control command containing address information, the node controller 201 of the corresponding node controls the drive execution module 203 to perform target tracking action.

[0058] In one embodiment, for two adjacent rows of photovoltaic tracking bracket bodies 400, at least one communication bridging wire can be provided between them. The two ends of the communication bridging wire are electrically connected to preset connection points in the corresponding two rows, used to establish an auxiliary communication path between rows when needed, to achieve backup communication, fault switching, or link detection. Under normal operating conditions, the continuous communication links corresponding to different rows are independent of each other, and the communication bridging wire does not participate in the normal communication transmission of each row, so as to avoid the mutual coupling of signals between rows affecting normal communication. When a row experiences a communication anomaly, link failure, or needs to be detected, the communication bridging wire can be used to assist in achieving communication connectivity, fault switching, or link status detection between adjacent rows. Specifically, the inter-row communication bridging wire can be connected to the communication link of the corresponding row through a relay or electronic switch network. The communication switching unit can control the conduction state of the inter-row communication bridging wire according to the switching control signal output by the main control module 100, switching between normal operation mode, backup communication mode, fault switching mode, and detection mode. The switching control can be executed automatically by the main control module 100, or it can be manually triggered by maintenance personnel based on the fault diagnosis results.

[0059] During the operation of the support system, the attitude detection module 204 collects attitude information at preset intervals, and the node controller 201 generates status information, which is then transmitted back to the main control module 100 via the narrowband carrier node communication module 202. The main control module 100 adjusts the control parameters based on the feedback information from each node to achieve coordinated tracking control of multiple photovoltaic tracking support bodies 400. Simultaneously, the link diagnostic unit 300 periodically sends probe signals to the continuous communication links within the row, extracting link attenuation parameters and reflection response parameters based on the signal response during normal communication. The link diagnostic unit 300, combined with the status information transmitted back from each node, performs auxiliary diagnostics on the status of the corresponding metal torque tube 401 section, communication jumper wire section, and connection points, thereby achieving the integration of communication control and link status perception.

[0060] Therefore, the photovoltaic tracking bracket system in this embodiment utilizes the metal torque tube 401 in the photovoltaic tracking bracket body 400 as a mechanical transmission component and part of the communication transmission channel. The metal torque tubes 401 of adjacent photovoltaic tracking bracket bodies 400 within the same row are electrically connected via communication jumper wires to form a continuous communication link within the row. The main control module 100, multiple bracket communication nodes 200, and the link diagnostic unit 300 form a unified control, communication, and diagnostic system around this continuous communication link within the row.

[0061] The above technical solutions not only reduce independent communication cabling and improve the consistency and row management capabilities of multi-node control, but also enable the use of link attenuation parameters and reflection response parameters to assist in the identification, early warning and location of abnormal states of communication jumper wires, metal torque tubes 401 and their connection parts, thereby improving the reliability of system operation and the convenience of maintenance.

[0062] Example 3: Based on the aforementioned photovoltaic tracking bracket system, the system further includes a design optimization unit. The design optimization unit can be configured as an independent computing device communicatively connected to the main control module. The design optimization unit is used to optimize the design of the photovoltaic tracking bracket body based on a large model, outputting a column layout scheme and a main shaft segmentation scheme.

[0063] Specifically, the design optimization unit includes a parameter input module, a constraint modeling module, a prompt word generation module, a large model inference module, an iterative optimization module, and a result output module. The parameter input module receives input parameters such as component dimensions, layout parameters, inter-group spacing, component gaps, number of drive columns, and number of main shaft segments. The constraint modeling module abstracts the component layout, column arrangement, and main shaft segmentation design into mathematical constraint problems. The prompt word generation module generates prompt words containing natural language descriptions and mathematical formulas for different design steps. The large model inference module establishes corresponding mathematical models and generates candidate design schemes under the guidance of the prompt words. The iterative optimization module performs multiple rounds of correction and optimization of the candidate design schemes based on boundary conditions and engineering constraints. The result output module outputs the optimized column layout scheme and main shaft segmentation scheme.

[0064] The design optimization unit first establishes a mathematical model for the component layout. For example, assuming the length of a single rectangular photovoltaic module is w, the module layout consists of N1 modules on the left, a gap between modules, and N2 modules on the right, with a gap of sep between adjacent modules. Taking the left edge of the first module as the origin of the coordinate system, the total span L of the modules satisfies: L = w×N1 + sep×(N1-1) + Gap + w×N2 + sep×(N2-1).

[0065] Meanwhile, the coordinates of the gap area of ​​each component can be determined according to the component length and the gap between components, and the gap area of ​​the components serves as the avoidance area when laying out the columns in the future.

[0066] After determining the component layout, the design optimization unit establishes a mathematical model for the drive columns. Let the number of drive columns be N³, and the positions of the drive columns be x1, x2, ..., xN³. First, the initial positions of the drive columns are determined according to the principle of uniform distribution. Then, the column spacing and the positions of each column are adjusted through iterative optimization. During the adjustment process, at least one of the following constraints must be satisfied: the column spacing is an integer with a units digit of 0; the drive columns are not located within the component gap area; and a distance greater than a preset safety distance is maintained between the drive columns and the boundary of the component gap area. This yields a drive column layout that meets engineering requirements.

[0067] After the positions of the drive columns are determined, the design optimization unit establishes a mathematical model for the side columns. The side columns are also abstracted as vertical lines arranged along the length of the component, and their arrangement satisfies at least one of the following requirements: they are arranged as symmetrically as possible on the left and right sides of the drive columns; several side columns are inserted between each drive column according to the span; the spacing between adjacent columns is as equal as possible; the spacing between adjacent columns is within a preset range; all side columns avoid the component gap area and maintain a preset safe distance from the boundary of the component gap area. The final side column layout scheme is obtained by scoring and filtering multiple candidate layout results.

[0068] The design optimization unit establishes a mathematical model of the main axis. The main axis is located below the photovoltaic module, and its total length is equal to the total span L of the module. The main axis is divided into T segments, with lengths L1, L2, ..., LT, satisfying at least one of the following constraints: the total length of the main axis satisfies L = ∑Li; the lengths of each segment are symmetrical; the difference in length between adjacent segments does not exceed a preset threshold; and the connection points of each segment avoid the region corresponding to the inter-group gap. Multiple candidate schemes for main axis segmentation are generated through the large model, and the iterative optimization module selects the main axis segmentation schemes that meet the constraints.

[0069] In this embodiment, the prompt word generation module constructs prompt words containing natural language descriptions and mathematical formulas for component layout, drive columns, side columns, and main shaft segments, respectively, to guide the large model in building the component layout mathematical model, drive column mathematical model, side column mathematical model, and main shaft mathematical model step by step. Guided by the prompt words, the large model outputs candidate design results. The iterative optimization module combines boundary conditions, engineering constraints, and preset evaluation indicators to perform multiple rounds of optimization on the candidate design results until an optimized design result that meets the constraints is obtained.

[0070] For example, in a specific example, the input parameters are: w=1134, N1=42, N2=42, Gap=650, sep=17, N3=3, T=5. The design optimization unit calculates the total span of the component and the coordinates of the gap area based on the above input parameters, thereby determining the positions of the drive column, the side column, and the main shaft segment length. Through iterative optimization, it improves the uniformity of the column layout, the rationality of the main shaft segmentation, and the overall stress balance of the support structure.

[0071] By setting up the design optimization unit, the photovoltaic tracking bracket design process can be transformed into a multi-constraint mathematical optimization problem. The large model can be guided step by step to complete the modeling and optimization through natural language combined with mathematical formula prompts, thereby improving the automation level, stress balance and tracking accuracy of photovoltaic tracking bracket design.

[0072] The technical means disclosed in this invention are not limited to those disclosed in the above embodiments, but also include technical solutions composed of any combination of the above technical features. It should be noted that those skilled in the art can make various improvements and modifications without departing from the principles of this invention, and these improvements and modifications are also considered within the scope of protection of this invention.

Claims

1. A photovoltaic tracking bracket system, characterized in that, Includes a main control module, multiple support communication nodes, and a link diagnostic unit; Each of the aforementioned support communication nodes corresponds to a photovoltaic tracking support body. The photovoltaic tracking support body includes a metal torque tube extending along the photovoltaic module arrangement direction. The metal torque tube is a conductive metal transmission component used to transmit the output torque of the drive device to drive the photovoltaic module to track and rotate, and also serves as part of the conductive transmission channel for narrowband carrier communication on the same structure. A communication bridging wire is provided between adjacent photovoltaic tracking bracket bodies. The two ends of the communication bridging wire are respectively electrically connected to the metal torque tube of the adjacent photovoltaic tracking bracket body, so that the metal torque tubes of multiple photovoltaic tracking bracket bodies form an electrical connection structure that extends continuously along the arrangement direction, thereby forming a continuous narrowband carrier communication link within the row. The main control module accesses the continuous narrowband carrier communication link within the row through the narrowband carrier master station communication module, and performs bidirectional narrowband carrier communication through the conductive structure link formed by the metal torque tube and the communication jumper wire, so as to realize the issuance of control commands and the transmission of status information to multiple support communication nodes. The link diagnostic unit is used to obtain the link response parameters from the main control module to each support communication node, and based on the differences in the link response parameters corresponding to different support communication nodes, to segment and identify the continuous narrowband carrier communication links within the row, and to locate the anomalies to the metal torque tube section, the communication jumper wire or its electrical connection interface.

2. The photovoltaic tracking bracket system according to claim 1, characterized in that, Each of the support communication nodes includes a node controller and a narrowband carrier node communication module. The narrowband carrier node communication module is used to realize the transmission and reception of narrowband carrier signals and modulation and demodulation between the node and the main control module. The node controller is used to parse the demodulated communication data and control the drive execution module to drive the corresponding photovoltaic tracking bracket body to perform tracking actions according to the parsing results. At the same time, it receives the attitude information collected by the attitude detection module and generates status information. The status information, after being modulated by the narrowband carrier node communication module, is transmitted back to the main control module through the continuous narrowband carrier communication link within the row under a communication mechanism of polling combined with time slot response.

3. The photovoltaic tracking bracket system according to claim 1, characterized in that, The main control module includes a narrowband carrier master station communication module and a communication management unit. The communication management unit is used to identify, manage addresses, schedule communication, and summarize status information for multiple support communication nodes.

4. The photovoltaic tracking bracket system according to claim 1, characterized in that, The support communication node also includes a drive execution module and an attitude detection module; The drive execution module is used to drive the corresponding photovoltaic tracking bracket body to perform tracking actions; The attitude detection module is used to collect the attitude parameters of the photovoltaic tracking bracket body and send the attitude parameters to the node controller.

5. The photovoltaic tracking bracket system according to claim 1, characterized in that, The link response parameters include at least one of link attenuation parameters and reflection response parameters; The link attenuation parameter is used to characterize the signal transmission loss between the main control module and the corresponding support communication node; The reflection response parameters are used to characterize the echo changes caused by impedance discontinuities in a continuous communication link.

6. The photovoltaic tracking bracket system according to claim 5, characterized in that, The link diagnostic unit is used to determine suspected abnormal link segments based on the differences in link response parameters corresponding to different support communication nodes, and to narrow down the abnormal range to the corresponding metal torque tube segment, communication jumper wire or connection part area based on the correspondence between support communication nodes, link segments and metal torque tube segments.

7. The photovoltaic tracking bracket system according to claim 6, characterized in that, The link diagnostic unit confirms anomalies based on preset thresholds, historical trends, and / or multiple consecutive test results; when the offset of the link attenuation parameter relative to the reference value exceeds the first threshold multiple times consecutively, a link degradation warning is output. When the reflection response parameter exceeds the second threshold multiple times consecutively, a connection abnormality warning is output. When both link attenuation parameters and reflection response parameters are abnormal, the anomaly level is increased.

8. The photovoltaic tracking bracket system according to claim 1, characterized in that, The main control module sends query frames to each support communication node in a preset address order through a communication management method that combines polling and time slot response. The corresponding support communication node returns status information within the allocated time slot, while the other support communication nodes remain silent. The main control module is also used to send time synchronization frames to multiple support communication nodes, so that the multiple support communication nodes can perform instruction reception, status feedback and tracking action control based on a unified time base.

9. The photovoltaic tracking bracket system according to claim 6, characterized in that, The link diagnostic unit is used to jointly determine the anomaly type based on the link response parameters and the status information returned by multiple support communication nodes; the main control module is used to control the corresponding photovoltaic tracking support body to enter one of the following modes when it is determined that the structural connection anomaly or communication link anomaly is related to communication transmission: low-speed operation mode, local isolation mode, or safe shutdown mode.

10. The photovoltaic tracking bracket system according to claim 1, characterized in that, For a photovoltaic power station containing multiple rows of photovoltaic tracking brackets, each row of photovoltaic tracking brackets forms its own independent continuous communication link through communication jumper wires between adjacent brackets; the main control module connects to the continuous communication links corresponding to different rows through multiple narrowband carrier master station communication modules, or selectively connects to the continuous communication links of different rows through a communication switching unit; and at least one communication jumper wire is set between two adjacent rows of photovoltaic tracking brackets for backup communication, fault switching or detection, and the continuous communication links corresponding to different rows are independent of each other under normal working conditions.

Images