Flexible photovoltaic tracking support and photovoltaic system

Abstract

The utility model relates to the technical field of photovoltaic tracking, in particular to a flexible photovoltaic tracking support and a photovoltaic system, the flexible photovoltaic tracking support comprises at least one row of tracking supports, and each row of tracking supports comprises M supporting units, a flexible cable supporting unit and a driving unit. Each supporting unit comprises a supporting foundation and a supporting beam, the supporting foundations are used for supporting the supporting beams, the supporting beams are rotatably connected to the supporting foundations, and M is a positive integer larger than 2. The flexible cable supporting unit comprises at least two supporting cables, each supporting cable is sequentially connected with all the supporting beams, and the supporting cables are used for supporting the photovoltaic module. The driving unit can drive the supporting beam to rotate relative to the supporting base so as to drive the supporting cable to adjust the inclination angle of the photovoltaic module. The photovoltaic system comprises a photovoltaic module and the flexible photovoltaic tracking support, and the photovoltaic module is arranged on the supporting cable. The flexible photovoltaic tracking support and the photovoltaic system can reduce cost and improve stability.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This utility model relates to the field of photovoltaic tracking technology, and in particular to a flexible photovoltaic tracking bracket and photovoltaic system. Background Technology

[0002] In solar power generation, fixed support structures are relatively inexpensive and adaptable to different terrains. However, because the sun's trajectory changes constantly throughout the day and seasons, the angle of sunlight incident on the photovoltaic modules needs to be constantly adjusted, leading to lower efficiency. Tracking support structures effectively solve this problem and significantly reduce the levelized cost of electricity (LCOE). A rigid single-axis tracking support structure is one type of tracking support structure. It consists of a main beam and multiple columns spaced at intervals along the beam's extension direction. The main beam is rotatably connected to each column. Multiple purlins are also spaced at intervals along the main beam's extension direction, supporting the photovoltaic modules. A drive unit rotates the main beam around its own axis, causing the purlins to change their tilt angle, thus adjusting the tilt angle of the photovoltaic modules and achieving sunlight tracking. However, rigid single-axis tracking support structures use a large amount of steel, resulting in a heavy structure and requiring an increased number of foundations and columns, leading to overall weight and high cost. Furthermore, when the ground subsides in some areas, some of the columns lose their supporting function, which also affects the rotation of the main beam, causing the drive device to malfunction and the stability of the photovoltaic system to be compromised. Utility Model Content

[0003] One objective of this invention is to provide a flexible photovoltaic tracking bracket that can reduce costs and improve stability.

[0004] To achieve this objective, the present invention adopts the following technical solution:

[0005] A flexible photovoltaic tracking bracket is provided, comprising at least one row of tracking brackets, wherein one row of the tracking brackets includes:

[0006] There are M support units, each of which includes a support base and a support beam. The support base supports the support beam, and the support beam is rotatably connected to the support base. M is a positive integer greater than 2.

[0007] A flexible cable support unit includes at least two support cables, each of which is sequentially connected to all the support beams, and the support cables are used to support photovoltaic modules;

[0008] The drive unit is capable of driving the support beam to rotate relative to the support foundation, thereby causing the support cable to adjust the tilt angle of the photovoltaic module.

[0009] Optionally, the drive unit includes a main drive assembly and a slave drive assembly. The slave drive assembly is configured to correspond one-to-one with the support beam. The main drive assembly is used to drive the slave drive assembly so that each slave drive assembly can drive one of the support beams to rotate relative to the support foundation.

[0010] Optionally, the main drive assembly includes a drive member and a main drive cable, the main drive cable extending to at least two of the slave drive assemblies, and the drive member being used to pull the main drive cable to move along its own extension direction, so that the main drive cable drives at least two of the slave drive assemblies.

[0011] Optionally, the main drive assembly further includes a drum connected to the output end of the drive member, the main drive cable being partially wound around the drum, and the drive member driving the drum to rotate so that the main drive cable can move along its own extension direction.

[0012] Optionally, the two ends of the main drive cable are connected to form a loop structure, and the main drive assembly further includes a first fixed pulley, which is used to cooperate with the drum to support the main drive cable.

[0013] Optionally, the main drive cable extends to at least three of the slave drive assemblies, the drum is located at the middle slave drive assembly, the drum rotates about its own axis, the drum has a first part and a second part along its own axis, the two ends of the main drive cable are respectively located on both sides of the drum, the main drive cable on one side of the drum is wound on the first part, and the main drive cable on the other side of the drum is wound on the second part.

[0014] Optionally, the driven assembly includes an auxiliary bracket and a driven cable. The auxiliary bracket is connected to the support beam, and the driven cable is connected to the main drive cable and the auxiliary bracket. The main drive cable can drive the driven cable to pull the auxiliary bracket to rotate, so that the auxiliary bracket drives the support beam to rotate relative to the support foundation.

[0015] Optionally, the two ends of the main drive cable are connected to form a ring structure, the ring structure including a first segment and a second segment spaced parallel to each other, one end of the driven cable is connected to the first segment and the other end is connected to the second segment, the driven cable has a first position and a second position, the auxiliary support has a third position and a fourth position, the third position and the fourth position are not located in the same vertical plane, the first position of the driven cable is connected to the third position of the auxiliary support, and the second position of the driven cable is connected to the fourth position of the auxiliary support, so that when the main drive cable drives the two ends of the driven cable to move in opposite directions, the driven cable can drive the auxiliary support to rotate.

[0016] Optionally, the auxiliary support includes an arc-shaped rod and a support rod. The two ends of the arc-shaped rod are respectively connected to the fifth and sixth positions of the support beam. The fifth and sixth positions are located on both sides of the rotation axis of the support beam. The support rod is used to connect the arc-shaped rod and the support beam.

[0017] Optionally, the driven assembly further includes a second fixed pulley, the axle of which is connected to the support unit, and the second fixed pulley is used to support the driven cable.

[0018] Optionally, it also includes a linkage unit, the linkage unit including a linkage cable, one row of the tracking brackets having the driving component, and the other row of the tracking brackets not having the driving component, the one row of the tracking brackets driving the main driving cable of the other row of the tracking brackets to move along its own extension direction through the linkage cable.

[0019] Optionally, the main drive assembly further includes a drum connected to the output end of the drive member, the main drive cable being partially wound around the drum, and the drive member being used to drive the drum to rotate so that the main drive cable can move along its own extension direction;

[0020] The linkage cable is partially wound around the drum of one row of tracking brackets and partially wound around the drum of another row of tracking brackets, so that the drive unit of one row of tracking brackets can simultaneously drive the main drive cables of both rows of tracking brackets to move along their own extension direction.

[0021] Optionally, a row of tracking brackets further includes a windproof unit, which includes a frame with at least two first limiting holes, and at least two support cables are respectively inserted through the at least two first limiting holes.

[0022] Optionally, the windproof unit further includes a ground anchor, the upper part of which has a second limiting hole, and the frame portion passes through the second limiting hole.

[0023] Optionally, the ground anchor includes a weight, a pull rope, and a limiting member, with the two ends of the pull rope connected to the weight and the limiting member respectively, and the second limiting hole being formed on the limiting member.

[0024] Optionally, a row of tracking brackets further includes a horizontal force balancing unit, and the support unit located at the end is an end support unit. The horizontal force balancing unit is used to balance the horizontal force acting on the end support unit.

[0025] Optionally, the horizontal force balancing unit includes an external pull component located on the side of the end support unit away from the photovoltaic module, the external pull component providing a pulling force to the end support unit in the direction away from the photovoltaic module;

[0026] And / or, the horizontal force balancing unit includes an inner support assembly located on the side of the end support unit facing the photovoltaic module, the inner support assembly providing the end support unit with a thrust in a direction away from the photovoltaic module.

[0027] Optionally, the external tensioning assembly includes an anchoring base and a stay cable, with one end of the stay cable connected to the anchoring base and the other end connected to the upper part of the support base of the end support unit.

[0028] Optionally, the external tensioning component further includes a U-shaped clamp, the stay cables are arranged in pairs, and the pair of stay cables are configured to be mirror symmetrical with respect to the vertical plane where the supporting foundation is located. The U-shaped clamp is fitted onto the side wall of the supporting foundation, and the opening of the U-shaped clamp is disposed away from the photovoltaic module. The U-shaped clamp includes a third part and a fourth part arranged in parallel and spaced apart. One of the pair of stay cables is connected to the third part, and the other is connected to the fourth part.

[0029] Optionally, the extension directions of the third and fourth parts are both consistent with the extension direction of the stay cable.

[0030] Optionally, the stay cables are provided in N pairs, and the U-shaped clamps are provided in N units, with the N U-shaped clamps spaced apart in the vertical direction, where N is a positive integer greater than 1.

[0031] Optionally, a row of tracking brackets further includes an auxiliary connection unit for connecting the support cable to the photovoltaic module. The auxiliary connection unit includes a gap limiting component located between adjacent photovoltaic panels.

[0032] Optionally, the gap limiting assembly has a connecting body, a first limiting wing, and a second limiting wing connected to each other. The connecting body is connected to the bottom surfaces of both photovoltaic panels. The first limiting wing presses against the top surface of one photovoltaic panel, and the second limiting wing presses against the top surface of the other photovoltaic panel.

[0033] And / or, the gap limiting component is further provided with a third limiting hole, and the support cable passes through the third limiting hole.

[0034] Another objective of this invention is to provide a photovoltaic system that can reduce costs and improve stability.

[0035] To achieve this objective, the present invention adopts the following technical solution:

[0036] A photovoltaic system is provided, including a photovoltaic module and the aforementioned flexible photovoltaic tracking bracket, wherein the photovoltaic module is mounted on the support cable.

[0037] The beneficial effects of this utility model are:

[0038] This invention provides a flexible photovoltaic (PV) tracking bracket, comprising at least one row of tracking brackets. Each row of tracking brackets includes M support units, flexible cable support units, and a drive unit. Each support unit includes a support base and a support beam. The support base supports the support beam, and the support beam is rotatably connected to the support base. M is a positive integer greater than 2. Each flexible cable support unit includes at least two support cables, each sequentially connecting to all support beams. The support cables support the PV modules. The drive unit drives the support beams to rotate relative to the support base, thereby adjusting the tilt angle of the PV modules by moving the support cables. This flexible PV tracking bracket utilizes flexible support cables to support the PV modules, and the drive unit drives the support beams to move the support cables, thus adjusting the tilt angle of the PV modules. This flexible PV tracking bracket significantly reduces weight, the number of support units, and costs. Furthermore, when the ground subsides in a localized area, the flexibility of the support cables prevents local jamming of the drive unit, thus reducing costs and improving stability.

[0039] This invention also provides a photovoltaic system, including a photovoltaic module and the aforementioned flexible photovoltaic tracking bracket, with the photovoltaic module mounted on a support cable. This photovoltaic system can reduce costs and improve stability. Attached Figure Description

[0040] Figure 1 This is a first-view structural schematic diagram of the flexible photovoltaic tracking bracket provided in this embodiment of the present invention;

[0041] Figure 2 yes Figure 1 Enlarged view of point A in the middle;

[0042] Figure 3 This is a second-view structural schematic diagram of the flexible photovoltaic tracking bracket provided in this embodiment of the present invention;

[0043] Figure 4 yes Figure 3 Enlarged view of point B in the middle;

[0044] Figure 5 yes Figure 3 Enlarged view of point C in the middle;

[0045] Figure 6 yes Figure 3 Enlarged view of point D in the middle;

[0046] Figure 7 This is a partial enlargement of the flexible photovoltaic tracking bracket provided in this embodiment of the utility model. Figure 1 ;

[0047] Figure 8 This is a third-view structural schematic diagram of the flexible photovoltaic tracking bracket provided in this embodiment of the present invention;

[0048] Figure 9 yes Figure 8 Enlarged view of point E in the middle.

[0049] In the picture:

[0050] 1. Support unit; 11. Support foundation; 12. Support beam; 121. Fifth position; 122. Sixth position;

[0051] 2. Support cables;

[0052] 3. Main drive assembly; 31. Drive component; 32. Main drive cable; 321. First section; 322. Second section; 33. Drum; 34. First fixed pulley;

[0053] 4. Drive assembly; 41. Auxiliary bracket; 411. Arc rod; 412. Support rod; 42. Drive cable; 43. Second fixed pulley;

[0054] 5. Windproof unit; 51. Aircraft frame; 511. First limiting hole; 52. Ground anchor; 521. Heavy object; 522. Pull rope; 523. Limiting component; 5231. Second limiting hole;

[0055] 6. External tension components; 61. Anchoring foundation components; 62. Stay cables; 63. U-shaped clamps; 631. Third part; 632. Fourth part;

[0056] 7. Gap limiting assembly; 71. Connector; 711. Connecting body; 72. First positioning component; 721. First limiting wing; 722. Second limiting wing; 73. Second positioning component; 731. Third limiting hole;

[0057] 100. Tracking bracket; 200. Photovoltaic module; 201. Photovoltaic panel. Detailed Implementation

[0058] The technical solution of this utility model will be further described below with reference to the accompanying drawings and embodiments. It should be understood that the specific embodiments described herein are merely for explaining this utility model and not for limiting it. Furthermore, it should be noted that, for ease of description, only the parts related to this utility model are shown in the drawings, not all of them.

[0059] In the description of this utility model, it should be noted that, unless otherwise explicitly specified and limited, the terms "installation," "connection," and "linking" should be interpreted broadly. For example, they can refer to fixed connections or detachable connections; mechanical connections or electrical connections; direct connections or indirect connections through an intermediate medium; and internal connections between two components. Those skilled in the art can understand the specific meaning of the above terms in this utility model based on the specific circumstances.

[0060] In this invention, unless otherwise explicitly specified and limited, "above" or "below" the second feature can include direct contact between the first and second features, or contact between the first and second features through another feature between them. Furthermore, "above," "over," and "on top" of the second feature includes the first feature directly above or diagonally above the second feature, or simply indicates that the first feature is at a higher horizontal level than the second feature. "Below," "below," and "under" the second feature includes the first feature directly below or diagonally below the second feature, or simply indicates that the first feature is at a lower horizontal level than the second feature.

[0061] In solar power generation, fixed support structures are relatively inexpensive and adaptable to different terrains. However, because the sun's trajectory changes constantly throughout the day and seasons, the angle of sunlight incident on the photovoltaic modules needs to be constantly adjusted, leading to lower efficiency. Tracking support structures effectively solve this problem and significantly reduce the levelized cost of electricity (LCOE). A rigid single-axis tracking support structure is one type of tracking support structure. It consists of a main beam and multiple columns spaced at intervals along the beam's extension direction. The main beam is rotatably connected to each column. Multiple purlins are also spaced at intervals along the main beam's extension direction, supporting the photovoltaic modules. A drive unit rotates the main beam around its own axis, causing the purlins to change their tilt angle, thus adjusting the tilt angle of the photovoltaic modules and achieving sunlight tracking. However, rigid single-axis tracking support structures use a large amount of steel, resulting in a heavy structure and requiring an increased number of foundations and columns, leading to overall weight and high cost. Furthermore, when the ground subsides in some areas, some of the columns lose their supporting function, which also affects the rotation of the main beam, causing the drive device to malfunction and the stability of the photovoltaic system to be compromised.

[0062] Therefore, this embodiment provides a flexible photovoltaic tracking bracket to solve the above problems. This flexible photovoltaic tracking bracket can reduce costs and improve stability.

[0063] like Figures 1-9 As shown, the flexible photovoltaic tracking bracket in this embodiment includes at least one row of tracking brackets 100. Each row of tracking brackets 100 includes M support units 1, flexible cable support units, and drive units. The flexible photovoltaic tracking bracket may include one, two, three, four, or more rows of tracking brackets 100, which can be adjusted according to the actual site and needs, and is not limited herein.

[0064] Each support unit 1 includes a support base 11 and a support beam 12. The support base 11 supports the support beam 12, and the support beam 12 is rotatably connected to the support base 11. M is a positive integer greater than 2. That is, in this embodiment, there are at least two support units 1 located at the ends and one support unit 1 located in the middle. Two, three, four, or more support units 1 may also be provided in the middle. Optionally, the distance between two adjacent support units 1 is in the range of 15-18 meters. When the distance is less than or equal to 18 meters, the sag of the support cable 2 can be ignored.

[0065] Optionally, the support foundation 11 includes a base section and a column section, with the column section located above the base section and each component connected to the column section.

[0066] Optionally, each support unit 1 further includes a rotating assembly, through which the support beam 12 is rotatably connected to the support base 11. Optionally, the rotating assembly includes a rotating shaft and a bearing-like rotating structure. The rotating shaft is horizontally positioned, with one end connected to the side wall of the support beam 12 and located at the center of the support beam 12. The other end of the rotating shaft is connected to the inner ring of the rotating structure, and the outer ring of the rotating structure is connected to the side wall of the support base 11, with the rotating structure located at the upper part of the support base 11. That is, the rotating shaft can rotate relative to the support base 11 around its own axial direction, allowing the support beam 12 to rotate relative to the support base 11 around the rotating shaft. In this embodiment, the rotating shaft is horizontally positioned, so the support beam 12 rotates in a vertical plane.

[0067] The flexible cable support unit includes at least two support cables 2, each of which is connected to all the support beams 12 in sequence. The support cables 2 are used to support the photovoltaic module 200.

[0068] Optionally, at least two support cables 2 are arranged parallel to each other at intervals, support units 1 are arranged sequentially along a first direction, and support cables 2 are arranged sequentially along a second direction, the second direction being perpendicular to the first direction. Optionally, both the first and second directions are horizontal. Optionally, when the support beam 12 is horizontal, it extends along the second direction, and multiple support cables 2 can be connected to the support beam 12 at uniform intervals in sequence.

[0069] Of course, in other embodiments, to adapt to the terrain, the arrangement direction of the multiple support units 1 may not be in a straight line. The support cable 2 has a corresponding bending position, or two sets of support cables 2 are provided on the support beam 12 at the bending point.

[0070] Optionally, in this embodiment, at least two limiting clamps are provided on the support beam 12. The two ends of the limiting clamps are connected to the support beam 12, and one limiting clamp covers and limits one support cable 2 on the support beam 12. The number of limiting clamps is the same as the number of support cables 2. When the tilt angles of multiple support beams 12 are adjusted synchronously, the heights of multiple support cables 2 can be adjusted synchronously, and it can be ensured that each support cable 2 extends in the horizontal direction. The support cables 2 can drive the photovoltaic module 200 to move, thereby adjusting the tilt angle of the photovoltaic module 200.

[0071] The drive unit can drive the support beam 12 to rotate relative to the support base 11, thereby causing the support cable 2 to adjust the tilt angle of the photovoltaic module 200. The function of the drive unit is to provide power for the rotation of the support beam 12 around the axis of rotation. Under normal use, multiple support beams 12 are located on the same plane, and the drive unit drives multiple support beams 12 to rotate synchronously.

[0072] Optionally, in some embodiments, each tracking bracket 100 is provided with an independent drive unit, which is used to ensure that the multiple support beams 12 of this group of tracking brackets 100 rotate synchronously. In other embodiments, two or more sets of tracking brackets 100 can be driven by a single power source to achieve multi-row linkage, and the specific structure will be described in detail below.

[0073] This flexible photovoltaic tracking bracket utilizes flexible support cables 2 to support the photovoltaic module 200. A drive unit drives the support beam 12, which in turn moves the support cables 2 to adjust the tilt angle of the photovoltaic module 200, thus achieving photovoltaic tracking. This flexible photovoltaic tracking bracket significantly reduces weight and the number of support units 1, thereby lowering costs. Furthermore, when the ground subsides in a localized area, the flexibility of the support cables 2 prevents localized jamming of the drive unit, further reducing costs and improving stability.

[0074] Optionally, the drive unit includes a main drive assembly 3 and a slave drive assembly 4. The slave drive assembly 4 is configured to correspond one-to-one with the support beam 12. The main drive assembly 3 is used to drive the slave drive assembly 4 so that each slave drive assembly 4 can drive a support beam 12 to rotate relative to the support foundation 11.

[0075] Optionally, in some embodiments, a row of tracking brackets 100 is provided with a master drive component 3, which drives all the slave drive components 4 of the row of tracking brackets 100. In other embodiments, a row of tracking brackets 100 may also be provided with multiple master drive components 3, with different master drive components 3 driving different slave drive components 4 of the row of tracking brackets 100. For example, one master drive component 3 drives the three slave drive components 4 on the left, and another master drive component 3 drives the three slave drive components 4 on the right. Of course, there are many different ways to arrange them, not just the examples mentioned above.

[0076] Optionally, the main drive assembly 3 includes a drive member 31 and a main drive cable 32, the main drive cable 32 extending to at least two slave drive assemblies 4, and the drive member 31 for pulling the main drive cable 32 to move along its own extension direction so that the main drive cable 32 drives at least two slave drive assemblies 4.

[0077] Optionally, the main drive assembly 3 also includes a drum 33 connected to the output end of the drive member 31. The main drive cable 32 is partially wound around the drum 33. The drive member 31 is used to drive the drum 33 to rotate, and the drum 33 drives the main drive cable 32 to move along its own extension direction.

[0078] Optionally, the main drive assembly 3 also includes a reducer, and the drive component 31 is a motor, which drives the rotation of the drum 33 through the reducer.

[0079] Optionally, the two ends of the main drive cable 32 are connected to form a ring structure. The main drive assembly 3 also includes a first fixed pulley 34, which cooperates with the drum 33 to support the main drive cable 32. Optionally, the ring structure is stretched into a long strip shape along a first direction. A first fixed pulley 34 or drum 33 needs to be provided at one end of the ring structure along the first direction to support the main drive cable 32. Similarly, a first fixed pulley 34 or drum 33 also needs to be provided at the other end of the ring structure along the first direction to support the main drive cable 32, so as to ensure that the main drive cable 32 is a long strip-shaped ring structure that can cover at least two drive assemblies 4 corresponding to the support units 1. Optionally, the axle of the first fixed pulley 34 is connected to the support unit 1.

[0080] Optionally, in this embodiment, the main drive cable 32 extends to at least three slave drive components 4, and the drum 33 is located at the middle slave drive component 4. That is, a first fixed pulley 34 is respectively provided at both ends of the annular structure along the first direction, and the drum 33 is located in the middle. Since the annular structure of the main drive cable 32 includes a parallel and spaced first segment 321 and a second segment 322, the drum 33 can only wind the first segment 321 or the second segment 322 to provide pulling power for the entire annular structure. Preferably, in this embodiment, in order to improve the stability of the movement of the main drive cable 32 along its own extension direction, both the first segment 321 and the second segment 322 of the main drive cable 32 are wound on the drum 33, that is, the drum 33 has two driving positions for the main drive cable 32.

[0081] To prevent interference between the first section 321 and the second section 322 when the drum 33 winds around them, optionally, the drum 33 rotates around its own axis and has a first part and a second part along its own axis. The two sections of the main drive cable 32 are located on both sides of the drum 33. The main drive cable 32 on one side of the drum 33, i.e., the first section 321, is wound around the first part, and the main drive cable 32 on the other side of the drum 33, i.e., the second section 322, is wound around the second part.

[0082] It should be noted that the drum 33 has a structure capable of clamping the main drive cable 32 to prevent relative slippage between the main drive cable 32 and the drum 33, which could cause the drum 33 to fail to drive the main drive cable 32. The clamping structure of the drum 33 is a common mechanical structure and will not be described in detail here.

[0083] Optionally, in this embodiment, the drive assembly 4 includes an auxiliary bracket 41 and a drive cable 42. The auxiliary bracket 41 is connected to the support beam 12, and the drive cable 42 is connected to the main drive cable 32 and the auxiliary bracket 41. The main drive cable 32 can drive the drive cable 42 to pull the auxiliary bracket 41 to rotate, so that the auxiliary bracket 41 drives the support beam 12 to rotate relative to the support base 11.

[0084] Optionally, one end of the drive cable 42 is connected to the first segment 321 of the annular structure of the main drive cable 32, and the other end is connected to the second segment 322 of the annular structure of the main drive cable 32. When the main drive cable 32 is driven by the drum 33, the first segment 321 and the second segment 322 of the main drive cable 32 will move in opposite directions along their respective extension directions. At this time, one end of the drive cable 42 will retract, and the other end will be stretched, so that the drive cable 42 will also move along its own extension direction.

[0085] Optionally, the drive cable 42 has a first position and a second position, and the auxiliary support 41 has a third position and a fourth position. The first position of the drive cable 42 is connected to the third position of the auxiliary support 41, and the second position of the drive cable 42 is connected to the fourth position of the auxiliary support 41. When the main drive cable 32 drives the two ends of the drive cable 42 to move in opposite directions, the drive cable 42 can drive the auxiliary support 41 to rotate. Since the first segment 321 and the second segment 322 of the main drive cable 32 are located on both sides of the support base 11, that is, on both sides of the vertical plane where the axis of rotation of the support beam 12 is located, when the drive cable 42 is pulled on one side, it will drive the auxiliary support 41 to move. The movement of the auxiliary support 41 is limited by the support beam 12, that is, the support beam 12 and the auxiliary support 41 will rotate together around the axis of rotation.

[0086] Optionally, the auxiliary support 41 includes an arc-shaped rod 411 and a support rod 412. The two ends of the arc-shaped rod 411 are connected to the fifth position 121 and the sixth position 122 of the support beam 12, respectively. The fifth position 121 and the sixth position 122 are located on both sides of the rotation axis of the support beam 12. It should be noted that the rotation axis of the support beam 12 mentioned here is a hypothetical concept; that is, the axis around which the support beam 12 rotates is the axis of the rotation shaft mentioned above. The support rod 412 is used to connect the arc-shaped rod 411 and the support beam 12.

[0087] Optionally, in this embodiment, both ends of the arc-shaped rod 411 are connected to the bottom of the support beam 12, and the plane on which the auxiliary bracket 41 is located coincides with the vertical plane of rotation of the support beam 12. Optionally, the arc-shaped rod 411 is semi-circular. Optionally, multiple support rods 412 are provided, each support rod 412 having one end connected to the arc-shaped rod 411 and the other end connected to the support beam 12. Optionally, the multiple support rods 412 are all connected to the support beam 12 at the middle of the support beam 12.

[0088] Optionally, the drive assembly 4 further includes a second fixed pulley 43, the axle of which is connected to the support unit 1. The second fixed pulley 43 supports the drive cable 42. Two second fixed pulleys 43 are provided, each supporting the positions adjacent to the two ends of the drive cable 42. Optionally, the two second fixed pulleys 43 are symmetrically arranged according to the vertical plane of the support base 11. Optionally, the distance between the two second fixed pulleys 43 is greater than the distance between the first segment 321 and the second segment 322 of the main drive cable 32, so that the positions adjacent to the two ends of the drive cable 42 do not interfere with each other, and the stretching effect on the auxiliary support 41 is better.

[0089] Optionally, in some embodiments, a multi-row linkage design is adopted. The flexible photovoltaic tracking bracket also includes a linkage unit (not shown in the figure). The linkage unit includes a linkage cable. One row of tracking brackets 100 has a driving member 31, while the other row of tracking brackets 100 does not have a driving member 31. One row of tracking brackets 100 drives the main driving cable 32 of the other row of tracking brackets 100 to move along its own extension direction through the linkage cable.

[0090] Optionally, the linkage cable is partially wound around the drum 33 of one row of tracking brackets 100 and partially wound around the drum 33 of another row of tracking brackets 100, so that the drive unit 31 of one row of tracking brackets 100 can simultaneously drive the main drive cables 32 of both rows of tracking brackets 100 to move along their own extension direction. That is, the drive unit 31 of one row of tracking brackets 100 drives the drum 33 of that row of tracking brackets 100 to rotate, and the drum 33 drives the main drive cable 32 of that row of tracking brackets 100. At the same time, the drum 33 also drives the drum 33 of the other row of tracking brackets 100 through the linkage cable, and the drum 33 of the other row of tracking brackets 100 then drives the main drive cable 32 of that row of tracking brackets 100. In this case, the other row of tracking brackets 100 no longer needs to be equipped with a drive unit 31.

[0091] Optionally, a row of tracking brackets 100 also includes a windproof unit 5, such as... Figure 6 As shown, the windproof unit 5 includes a frame 51 with at least two first limiting holes 511. At least two support cables 2 are respectively inserted through the at least two first limiting holes 511. Optionally, the frame 51 has limiting hoops, the number of which is the same as the number of support cables 2. The limiting hoops surround the sides and top surfaces of the support cables 2, and both ends of the limiting hoops are fixed to the top of the frame 51. The frame 51 can restrict multiple support cables 2 to a plane, so that the multiple support cables 2 can restrain and limit each other, preventing individual support cables 2 from leaving the plane. Therefore, the frame 51 has an anti-torsional function and can protect the photovoltaic panel 201.

[0092] Optionally, the windproof unit 5 also includes a ground anchor 52, the upper part of which has a second limiting hole 5231, through which part of the frame 51 passes. The ground anchor 52 is set on the ground and is used to hold the frame 51 to resist wind suction and limit the impact of wind suction on the system.

[0093] Optionally, the ground anchor 52 includes a weight 521, a pull rope 522, and a limiting member 523. The two ends of the pull rope 522 are connected to the weight 521 and the limiting member 523, respectively. A second limiting hole 5231 is formed on the limiting member 523. The weight 521 is placed on the ground, and the limiting member 523 is located at the top of the ground anchor 52 to limit the movement of the frame 51. Optionally, in this embodiment, the limiting member 523 is a rectangular frame, and the hollow portion of the rectangular frame is the second limiting hole 5231. The plane of the rectangular frame is perpendicular to the second direction, so that the frame 51 extending along the second direction passes through the rectangular frame, thereby limiting the movement of multiple support cables 2 arranged sequentially at intervals along the second direction.

[0094] like Figures 1-2 Optionally, a row of tracking brackets 100 may further include a horizontal force balancing unit, and the support unit 1 located at the end is an end support unit. The horizontal force balancing unit is used to balance the horizontal force acting on the end support unit.

[0095] Optionally, in this embodiment, the horizontal force balancing unit includes an external pull component 6, which is located on the side of the end support unit away from the photovoltaic module 200. The external pull component 6 provides the end support unit with a pulling force in the direction away from the photovoltaic module 200.

[0096] Optionally, the horizontal force balancing unit includes an inner support component located on the side of the end support unit facing the photovoltaic module 200, which provides the end support unit with a thrust in a direction away from the photovoltaic module 200.

[0097] In this embodiment, the horizontal force balancing unit only has an external tension component 6. Of course, in other embodiments, the horizontal force balancing unit may only have an internal support component, or normally both the external tension component 6 and the internal support component may be provided. In yet another embodiment, the connection strength between the end support unit and the ground may be reinforced, and the end support unit may bear the horizontal force itself without additional external tension component 6 or internal support component.

[0098] Optionally, in this embodiment, the external tension assembly 6 includes an anchoring base 61 and a stay cable 62. One end of the stay cable 62 is connected to the anchoring base 61, and the other end is connected to the upper part of the support base 11 of the end support unit. This is because the support beam 12 is connected to the upper part of the support base 11, and the support beam 12 bears the tension of the support cable 2. Therefore, the stay cable 62, which counteracts this tension, is connected to the upper part of the support base 11. The anchoring base 61 is disposed on the ground to fix one end of the stay cable 62.

[0099] like Figure 2 As shown, optionally, the external tensioning component 6 also includes a U-shaped clamp 63, and the stay cables 62 are arranged in pairs. The pair of stay cables 62 are configured to be mirror-symmetrical with respect to the vertical plane where the supporting foundation 11 is located. The U-shaped clamp 63 is fitted onto the side wall of the supporting foundation 11, and the opening of the U-shaped clamp 63 is positioned away from the photovoltaic module 200. The U-shaped clamp 63 includes a third part 631 and a fourth part 632 arranged in parallel and spaced apart. One of the pair of stay cables 62 is connected to the third part 631, and the other is connected to the fourth part 632. The two stay cables 62 are paired and mirror-symmetrically arranged, which can prevent the supporting foundation 11 from receiving a component force in the second direction from the resultant force of the external tensioning component 6. That is, the component force in the second direction of the force exerted by the two stay cables 62 on the supporting foundation 11 cancels each other out.

[0100] Optionally, the extension directions of the third part 631 and the fourth part 632 are consistent with the extension direction of the cable 62, that is, the extension directions of the third part 631 and the fourth part 632 of the U-shaped clamp 63 are both set at an angle to the first direction.

[0101] Optionally, N pairs of stay cables 62 and N U-shaped clamps 63 are provided, with the N U-shaped clamps 63 spaced apart vertically, where N is a positive integer greater than 1. In this embodiment, N is 2, meaning there are two U-shaped clamps 63 and two pairs of stay cables 62, with one U-shaped clamp 63 fixing one pair of stay cables 62. This arrangement is because the main drive cable 32 and the driven cable 42 are both located below the support cable 2, and the drive components such as the main drive cable 32 and the driven cable 42 also exert a horizontal force on the support foundation 11. Therefore, one pair of U-shaped clamps 63 is positioned close to the support beam 12, and the other pair of U-shaped clamps 63 is positioned close to the drive components.

[0102] Of course, in some other embodiments, the value of N can be adjusted according to the actual situation, taking the values ​​of 1, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, or other positive integers. In other embodiments, only one stay cable 62 and one anchoring base 61 may be provided. The stay cable 62 is located in the virtual surface of the supporting base 11 extending along the first direction to prevent the supporting base 11 from being subjected to forces in the second direction.

[0103] Optionally, a row of tracking brackets 100 may also include an auxiliary connection unit for connecting the support cable 2 and the photovoltaic module 200. The auxiliary connection unit includes a gap limiting component 7 located between adjacent photovoltaic panels 201.

[0104] like Figure 7 and Figure 9 As shown, optionally, the gap limiting assembly 7 has a connecting body 711, a first limiting wing 721, and a second limiting wing 722 connected to each other. The connecting body 711 is connected to the bottom surfaces of both photovoltaic panels 201. Optionally, one side of the connecting body 711 is screwed to the bottom surface of the frame of one photovoltaic panel 201, and the other side of the connecting body 711 is screwed to the bottom surface of the frame of the other photovoltaic panel 201. The first limiting wing 721 presses against the top surface of one photovoltaic panel 201, and the second limiting wing 722 presses against the top surface of the other photovoltaic panel 201. The arrangement of the first limiting wing 721 and the second limiting wing 722 can prevent the screw connection at the bottom surface of the photovoltaic panels 201 from being loose, and prevent the photovoltaic panels 201 from detaching from the connecting body 711.

[0105] Optionally, the gap limiting component 7 is also provided with a third limiting hole 731, the support cable 2 passes through the third limiting hole 731, and the support cable 2 is located below the photovoltaic panel 201.

[0106] Optionally, in this embodiment, the gap limiting component 7 includes a connector 71, a first positioning member 72, and a second positioning member 73. The connector 71 is located between the first positioning member 72 and the second positioning member 73. The connector 71 has a connecting body 711 and is located below the photovoltaic panel 201. The cross-section of the first positioning member 72 is similar to an inverted "Z" shape. The first limiting wing 721 and the second limiting wing 722 of the first positioning member 72 are respectively located above two adjacent photovoltaic panels 201. The body of the first positioning member 72 is located between the first limiting wing 721 and the second limiting wing 722. The body is inserted into the gap between two adjacent photovoltaic panels 201 and protrudes downwards and is screwed to the middle of the connector 71. The second positioning member 73 is located below the connector 71. The second positioning member 73 is a limiting clamp. The middle part of the limiting clamp wraps around the lower half of the support cable 2. Both ends of the limiting clamp are connected to the connector 71. Optionally, the limiting clamp is screwed to the connector 71. The gap limiting component 7 can ensure a firm connection between the support cable 2 and the photovoltaic panel 201.

[0107] Optionally, a row of tracking brackets 100 has multiple gap limiting components 7, which are evenly spaced to achieve multi-point connection and limiting between the support cable 2 and the photovoltaic panel 201.

[0108] This embodiment also provides a photovoltaic system, including a photovoltaic module 200 and the aforementioned flexible photovoltaic tracking bracket, wherein the photovoltaic module 200 is mounted on the support cable 2.

[0109] Optionally, the photovoltaic system also includes a control unit for controlling the drive element 31 of the main drive component 3, thereby adjusting the tilt angle of the photovoltaic module 200.

[0110] The control principle of the control unit includes astronomical algorithms and photoelectric tracking. The astronomical algorithm divides the time between sunrise and sunset into equal parts to obtain the minimum duration and corresponding adjustment angle; the tilt angle of the photovoltaic module 200 is adjusted accordingly each time the minimum duration is reached. The photoelectric tracking method regulates the tilt angle of the photovoltaic module 200 by utilizing the principle that the current at both ends of the photovoltaic panel 201 along the second direction needs to tend towards equilibrium.

[0111] Optionally, in this embodiment, the control unit adopts a hybrid control method of astronomical algorithm and photoelectric tracking method. When there is sufficient sunlight, the astronomical algorithm is used, and when there is insufficient sunlight, the photoelectric tracking method is used to maximize the efficiency of the photovoltaic module 200 in receiving sunlight.

[0112] This photovoltaic system's flexible photovoltaic tracking bracket utilizes flexible support cables 2 to support the photovoltaic modules 200. A drive unit drives the support beam 12, which in turn moves the support cables 2 to adjust the tilt angle of the photovoltaic modules 200, thus achieving photovoltaic tracking functionality. This flexible photovoltaic tracking bracket significantly reduces weight, the number of support units 1, and costs. Furthermore, when the ground subsides in a localized area, the flexibility of the support cables 2 prevents localized jamming failures of the drive unit. Therefore, this photovoltaic system offers lower costs, higher stability, and greater applicability.

[0113] Obviously, the above embodiments of this utility model are merely examples for clearly illustrating the present utility model, and are not intended to limit the implementation of the present utility model. Those skilled in the art can make other variations or modifications based on the above description. It is neither necessary nor possible to exhaustively list all possible implementations here. Any modifications, equivalent substitutions, and improvements made within the spirit and principles of this utility model should be included within the protection scope of the claims of this utility model.

Claims

1. A flexible photovoltaic tracking support, characterized in that, Includes at least one row of tracking brackets (100), and one row of said tracking brackets (100) includes: M support units (1), each of the support units (1) includes a support base (11) and a support beam (12), the support base (11) is used to support the support beam (12), the support beam (12) is rotatably connected to the support base (11), and M is a positive integer greater than 2; The flexible cable support unit includes at least two support cables (2), each of which is sequentially connected to all of the support beams (12), and the support cables (2) are used to support the photovoltaic module (200); The drive unit is capable of driving the support beam (12) to rotate relative to the support base (11) so as to drive the support cable (2) to adjust the tilt angle of the photovoltaic module (200).

2. The flexible photovoltaic tracking racking of claim 1, wherein, The drive unit includes a main drive assembly (3) and a slave drive assembly (4). The slave drive assembly (4) is configured to correspond one-to-one with the support beam (12). The main drive assembly (3) is used to drive the slave drive assembly (4) so ​​that each slave drive assembly (4) can drive one of the support beams (12) to rotate relative to the support base (11).

3. The flexible photovoltaic tracking racking of claim 2, wherein, The main drive assembly (3) includes a drive member (31) and a main drive cable (32). The main drive cable (32) extends to at least two of the slave drive assemblies (4). The drive member (31) is used to pull the main drive cable (32) to move along its own extension direction so that the main drive cable (32) drives at least two of the slave drive assemblies (4).

4. The flexible photovoltaic tracking racking of claim 3, wherein, The main drive assembly (3) further includes a drum (33) connected to the output end of the drive member (31). The main drive cable (32) is partially wound around the drum (33). The drive member (31) is used to drive the drum (33) to rotate so that the main drive cable (32) can move along its own extension direction.

5. The flexible photovoltaic tracking racking of claim 4, wherein, The two ends of the main drive cable (32) are connected to form a ring structure. The main drive assembly (3) also includes a first fixed pulley (34), which is used to cooperate with the drum (33) to support the main drive cable (32).

6. The flexible photovoltaic tracking support of claim 5, wherein, The main drive cable (32) extends to at least three of the slave drive assemblies (4), and the drum (33) is located at the middle of the slave drive assembly (4). The drum (33) rotates about its own axis and has a first part and a second part along its own axis. The two ends of the main drive cable (32) are located on both sides of the drum (33). The main drive cable (32) on one side of the drum (33) is wound on the first part, and the main drive cable (32) on the other side of the drum (33) is wound on the second part.

7. The flexible photovoltaic tracking support of claim 3, wherein, The driven assembly (4) includes an auxiliary bracket (41) and a driven cable (42). The auxiliary bracket (41) is connected to the support beam (12). The driven cable (42) is connected to the main drive cable (32) and the auxiliary bracket (41). The main drive cable (32) can drive the driven cable (42) to pull the auxiliary bracket (41) to rotate, so that the auxiliary bracket (41) drives the support beam (12) to rotate relative to the support base (11).

8. The flexible photovoltaic tracking racking of claim 7, wherein, The two ends of the main drive cable (32) are connected to form a ring structure, which includes a first segment (321) and a second segment (322) that are parallel and spaced apart. One end of the driven cable (42) is connected to the first segment (321) and the other end is connected to the second segment (322). The driven cable (42) has a first position and a second position. The auxiliary support (41) has a third position and a fourth position. The third position and the fourth position are not located in the same vertical plane. The first position of the driven cable (42) is connected to the third position of the auxiliary support (41), and the second position of the driven cable (42) is connected to the fourth position of the auxiliary support (41). When the main drive cable (32) drives the two ends of the driven cable (42) to move in opposite directions, the driven cable (42) can drive the auxiliary support (41) to rotate.

9. The flexible photovoltaic tracking racking of claim 8, wherein, The auxiliary support (41) includes an arc-shaped rod (411) and a support rod (412). The two ends of the arc-shaped rod (411) are respectively connected to the fifth position (121) and the sixth position (122) of the support beam (12). The fifth position (121) and the sixth position (122) are respectively located on both sides of the rotation axis of the support beam (12). The support rod (412) is used to connect the arc-shaped rod (411) and the support beam (12).

10. The flexible photovoltaic tracking racking of claim 8, wherein, The drive assembly (4) further includes a second fixed pulley (43), the axle of which is connected to the support unit (1), and the second fixed pulley (43) is used to support the drive cable (42).

11. The flexible photovoltaic tracking racking of any of claims 3-10, wherein, It also includes a linkage unit, which includes a linkage cable. One row of the tracking brackets (100) has the driving member (31), while the other row of the tracking brackets (100) does not have the driving member (31). One row of the tracking brackets (100) drives the main driving cable (32) of the other row of the tracking brackets (100) to move along its own extension direction through the linkage cable.

12. The flexible photovoltaic tracking racking of claim 11, wherein, The main drive assembly (3) further includes a drum (33), which is connected to the output end of the drive member (31). The main drive cable (32) is partially wound around the drum (33). The drive member (31) is used to drive the drum (33) to rotate so that the main drive cable (32) can move along its own extension direction. The linkage cable is partially wound around the drum (33) of one row of tracking brackets (100) and partially wound around the drum (33) of another row of tracking brackets (100), so that the drive member (31) of one row of tracking brackets (100) can simultaneously drive the main drive cable (32) of both rows of tracking brackets (100) to move along its own extension direction.

13. The flexible photovoltaic tracking racking of any of claims 1-10, wherein, The row of tracking brackets (100) also includes a windproof unit (5), the windproof unit (5) includes a frame (51), the frame (51) has at least two first limiting holes (511), and at least two support cables (2) are respectively inserted through at least two first limiting holes (511).

14. The flexible photovoltaic tracking racking of claim 13, wherein, The windproof unit (5) also includes a ground anchor (52), the upper part of which has a second limiting hole (5231), and the frame (51) is partially inserted through the second limiting hole (5231).

15. The flexible photovoltaic tracking racking of claim 14, wherein, The ground anchor (52) includes a weight (521), a pull rope (522) and a limiting member (523). The two ends of the pull rope (522) are respectively connected to the weight (521) and the limiting member (523). The second limiting hole (5231) is opened on the limiting member (523).

16. The flexible photovoltaic tracking racking of any of claims 1-10, wherein, The row of tracking brackets (100) also includes a horizontal force balancing unit. The support unit (1) located at the end is an end support unit. The horizontal force balancing unit is used to balance the horizontal force on the end support unit.

17. The flexible photovoltaic tracking racking of claim 16, wherein, The horizontal force balancing unit includes an external pull component (6), which is located on the side of the end support unit away from the photovoltaic module (200). The external pull component (6) provides the end support unit with a pulling force in the direction away from the photovoltaic module (200). And / or, the horizontal force balancing unit includes an inner support assembly located on the side of the end support unit facing the photovoltaic module (200), the inner support assembly providing the end support unit with a thrust in a direction away from the photovoltaic module (200).

18. The flexible photovoltaic tracking racking of claim 17, wherein, The external tension assembly (6) includes an anchoring base (61) and a stay cable (62). One end of the stay cable (62) is connected to the anchoring base (61), and the other end is connected to the upper part of the support base (11) of the end support unit.

19. The flexible photovoltaic tracking racking of claim 18, wherein, The external tensioning component (6) also includes a U-shaped clamp (63). The stay cables (62) are arranged in pairs. The pair of stay cables (62) are arranged to be mirror-symmetrical with respect to the vertical plane where the supporting foundation (11) is located. The U-shaped clamp (63) is fitted onto the side wall of the supporting foundation (11). The opening of the U-shaped clamp (63) is set away from the photovoltaic module (200). The U-shaped clamp (63) includes a third part (631) and a fourth part (632) arranged in parallel and spaced apart. One of the pair of stay cables (62) is connected to the third part (631), and the other is connected to the fourth part (632).

20. The flexible photovoltaic tracking racking of claim 19, wherein, The extension directions of the third part (631) and the fourth part (632) are both consistent with the extension direction of the cable (62).

21. The flexible photovoltaic tracking racking of claim 19, wherein, The stay cables (62) are provided in N pairs, and the U-shaped clamps (63) are provided in N units. The N U-shaped clamps (63) are spaced apart in the vertical direction, and N is a positive integer greater than 1.

22. The flexible photovoltaic tracking rack of any of claims 1-10, wherein, The row of tracking brackets (100) also includes an auxiliary connection unit for connecting the support cable (2) to the photovoltaic module (200). The auxiliary connection unit includes a gap limiting component (7) located between adjacent photovoltaic panels (201).

23. The flexible photovoltaic tracking racking of claim 22, wherein, The gap limiting assembly (7) has a connecting body (711), a first limiting wing (721) and a second limiting wing (722) connected to each other. The connecting body (711) is connected to the bottom surfaces of both photovoltaic panels (201). The first limiting wing (721) presses against the top surface of one photovoltaic panel (201), and the second limiting wing (722) presses against the top surface of the other photovoltaic panel (201). And / or, the gap limiting component (7) is further provided with a third limiting hole (731), and the support cable (2) passes through the third limiting hole (731).

24. A photovoltaic system characterized by, It includes a photovoltaic module (200) and a flexible photovoltaic tracking bracket as described in any one of claims 1-23, wherein the photovoltaic module (200) is mounted on the support cable (2).

Images