Vehicle and use of double-sided solar panels

Abstract

Vehicle (1), in particular a land and / or water vehicle, comprising at least one solar arrangement (2) mounted on the upper surface of the vehicle (1), in particular a roof of the vehicle (1), wherein the solar arrangement 2 comprises at least one first solar module (11) which is mounted flat on the upper surface of the vehicle (1), and at least one folding device (20) with a laterally foldable solar unit (21) with at least one second solar module (22), wherein the solar unit (21) comprises two opposite solar cell sides for receiving solar energy, wherein the at least one folding device (20) is configured to be adjustable into a folded position in which the at least one second solar module (22) is arranged at least partially above the first solar module (11), and into a plurality of different at least partially unfolded positions.

Description

[0001] The invention relates to a vehicle comprising at least one solar arrangement mounted on the top of the vehicle and to the use of double-sided solar modules on a vehicle.

[0002] Installing solar panels on vehicles, especially recreational vehicles like motorhomes, can be difficult for several reasons. In particular, the available space on these vehicles is typically limited, and the space for solar panels competes with space for other features such as skylights, satellite dishes, and ventilation systems. This also limits the overall power output of the solar panels.

[0003] One approach involves using portable solar systems for vehicles. Their position can be manually adjusted by the user. For example, they can be set up while the vehicle is parked. However, by placing them on or around the vehicle, they are often exposed to increased shading, especially from the vehicle itself, and therefore often achieve lower efficiency.

[0004] The object of the present invention is therefore to provide a solution that enables improved solar energy generation in the limited space available on vehicle roofs. Ease of use and / or good safety while driving the vehicle are also desirable.

[0005] This problem is solved with a vehicle according to claim 1 and with a use according to claim 15. Further features, advantages and embodiments will become apparent from the dependent claims, the description and the figures.

[0006] According to the invention, a vehicle, in particular a land and / or water vehicle, is provided. The vehicle comprises at least one solar arrangement mounted on the upper surface of the vehicle, in particular a roof of the vehicle, wherein the solar arrangement comprises at least one first solar module which is mounted flat on the upper surface of the vehicle, and at least one folding device with a laterally foldable solar unit with at least one second solar module, wherein the solar unit comprises two opposite solar cell sides for receiving solar energy, wherein the at least one folding device is configured to be adjustable into a folded position in which the at least one second solar module is arranged at least partially above the first solar module, and into a plurality of different at least partially unfolded positions.Advantageously, the solar arrangement according to the invention can absorb an increased amount of energy per roof area. Further improved energy absorption can be achieved through various unfolded positions, and in particular, better adaptation to external conditions can be enabled.

[0007] The vehicle can be any vehicle with a top surface on which the solar array can be mounted. Specifically, the vehicle can be a land and / or water vehicle. For example, the vehicle can be a ship, a boat, or any other watercraft. For example, the vehicle can be a motor vehicle, especially a road vehicle. For example, the vehicle can be a recreational vehicle, especially one with a living area. For example, the vehicle can be a motorhome or a caravan. A motorhome is generally a motor vehicle with an interior suitable or designed for living. A caravan is generally a trailer with an interior suitable or designed for living. The terms motorhome and caravan also include, for example, variations of motorhomes and caravans. For example, campervans, recreational vehicles, etc., are also included.The vehicle could, for example, also be an amphibious vehicle.

[0008] The vehicle comprises at least one solar array mounted on its upper surface, in particular its roof. The solar array comprises at least one solar module. A solar module may also be referred to, for example, as a photovoltaic module or solar panel. A solar module is generally a device that converts light, in particular sunlight, into electrical energy. To convert the energy from light into electrical energy, a solar module typically comprises solar cells. Typically, a solar module is flat, meaning it has a significantly larger extent in two directions than in a third. The at least one solar module is mounted flat on the upper surface of the vehicle. The at least one solar module may be mounted directly or indirectly on the upper surface of the vehicle, in particular its roof.For example, the first solar module can be mounted on a base frame and / or a mounting surface on the top of the vehicle. The first solar module can be attached to any suitable location on the top. For example, the first solar module can be located on the left or right side of the top of the vehicle. It is possible for several first solar modules to be mounted on the top of the vehicle, for example, side by side.

[0009] The vehicle further comprises a folding device with a laterally foldable solar unit comprising at least one second solar module. The folding device may include a foldable mounting device, for example, a folding frame, to which the solar unit is attached. The folding device may, in particular, include at least one axis of rotation and / or at least one pivot point about which the foldable mounting device and / or the solar unit can rotate when unfolded. A control device and / or a motor unit may be provided for controlling and / or driving the unfolding. The control device may, for example, be controlled by control software. Alternatively, the solar arrangement may include a manual drive for unfolding. For example, the manual drive may include a gearbox and a hand crank.The solar unit comprises two opposing solar cell surfaces for capturing solar energy. For example, the second solar module can be equipped with solar cells on both sides. This can also be referred to as a bifacial solar module. Alternatively, the solar unit can comprise two single-sided second solar modules, whose solar cell surfaces form the opposite solar cell surfaces.

[0010] The first and / or second solar module may, for example, comprise crystalline, in particular monocrystalline and / or polycrystalline, silicon solar cells. Crystalline silicon solar cells typically consist of silicon wafers and are either monocrystalline (i.e., made from a single silicon crystal) or polycrystalline (i.e., made from multiple silicon crystals). Monocrystalline solar cells can advantageously exhibit higher efficiency. Polycrystalline solar cells can advantageously be more cost-effective. The first and / or second solar module may, for example, comprise thin-film solar cells, such as those made of CIGS, CdTe, or a-Si. Typically, such thin-film solar modules consist of a thin layer of photovoltaic material deposited onto a substrate such as glass or metal.Advantageously, such a solar module can be designed to be more flexible and lighter than crystalline silicon modules. This can be particularly beneficial for vehicles where weight is a critical factor, such as recreational vehicles, especially motorhomes or caravans. Furthermore, this variant allows for a particularly flexible and targeted design of the solar array. The first and / or second solar module can, for example, comprise organic solar cells. Solar modules made of organic solar cells can be manufactured particularly easily and cost-effectively, but generally have lower efficiency and a shorter lifespan. Optionally, the first and / or second solar module can be printed circuit boards (PCBs).

[0011] The folding device is designed to be set into a folded position in which the at least one second solar module is arranged at least partially above the first solar module. In particular, the folded position is preferably designed such that an area of ​​the solar cells of the second solar module is oriented substantially parallel to an area of ​​the solar cells of the first solar module. Preferably, the at least one second solar module is arranged above the first solar module in the folded position such that at least 80%, particularly preferably at least 90%, and most preferably at least 95%, of the area of ​​the first solar module is covered by the at least one second solar module. This allows, in particular, a very space-saving installation on the upper surface of the vehicle.Preferably, the area of ​​solar cells on one side of the second solar module differs from the area of ​​the solar cells of the first solar module by no more than 30%, preferably by no more than 15%, and particularly preferably by no more than 5%. In particular, the area of ​​solar cells on one side of the second solar module can be substantially identical to the area of ​​the solar cells of the first solar module.

[0012] Furthermore, the folding mechanism is adjustable to a multitude of different, at least partially extended positions. Accordingly, the folding mechanism is adjustable to at least two different, at least partially extended positions. However, the folding mechanism can also be adjustable to more than two extended positions. The extended positions can differ, in particular, with respect to the folding angle around a pivot axis. Optionally, additional variations and degrees of freedom for a position of the folding mechanism can also be provided. For example, the folding mechanism can be rotatable around more than one pivot axis. Optionally, the folding mechanism can be essentially steplessly adjustable to a multitude of extended positions. Advantageously, the orientation of at least one second solar module can thus be particularly well adapted to the angle of the sunlight.For example, the extended position can be chosen depending on the position of the sun. Similarly, the extended position can be chosen depending on the surroundings. For example, obstacles in the vicinity can be taken into account.

[0013] Advantageously, the vehicle includes a living area and / or passenger area, with the solar array mounted on the upper surface of the living area and / or passenger area. In particular, the solar array can be arranged and / or mounted on the roof of the living area and / or passenger area. This allows the area above the living or passenger area to be utilized. It can be provided that the living area and / or passenger area is supplied with electricity by means of the solar array. The solar array can be designed to supply the living area and / or passenger area with electrical power.

[0014] Advantageously, the folding mechanism can be extended laterally beyond the edge of the vehicle. This allows solar panels (especially additional solar panels) to be used on an area that extends beyond the vehicle's surface. For example, the folding mechanism can be folded down when the vehicle is in motion and unfolded when the vehicle is stationary. Optionally, the folding mechanism can also remain extended while driving, provided this is permissible, and be folded down in confined spaces.

[0015] Advantageously, the vehicle includes an adjustment device, optionally controllable by a user, for setting the position of the folding mechanism. This adjustment device can include a manual and / or automatic drive for adjusting the folding mechanism. It can also include an input interface for receiving user commands to set the position. This input interface can include a receiver for receiving commands, for example, via cable or wirelessly, and / or an input device for manually entering the commands. The input device could be, for example, a terminal, a touchpad, a switch, or a remote control. With user control, the user can decide which position is most suitable. For example, the user might decide that a folded-out position is more practical for an extended parking period.For example, the user might decide that a folded position is advisable in the event of expected severe weather.

[0016] Advantageously, the vehicle includes a manually operated mechanism, in particular a crank mechanism, for manually adjusting the position of the folding device. The crank mechanism may include a hand crank. The crank mechanism may include a transmission for driving the folding device. The crank mechanism may be designed for essentially stepless adjustment of the folding device's position. In this embodiment, the position can thus be determined directly by a user, in particular without requiring an energy input for the adjustment.

[0017] Advantageously, the vehicle includes a motor and / or a transmission for automatically adjusting the position of the folding mechanism. The motor can be remotely controllable, for example, by user input. A remote control can be provided for user input of the control commands. An adjustment device can include the motor and / or the transmission as well as a receiver for receiving control commands. A remote control can be provided for user input of the control commands. A control app can be provided for user input of the control commands, with the receiver designed to receive control commands from the control app. Alternatively or additionally, the control device can be designed to automatically adjust the position of the folding mechanism.For example, the position can be automatically adjusted based on environmental data. Environmental data, both here and in other embodiments, can include, for example, light intensity, shadow detection (particularly in the area of ​​the solar array), obstacles, and / or weather data. For instance, the control device can be designed to prevent or avoid unfolding in adverse weather conditions (e.g., storms and / or rain).

[0018] Advantageously, the vehicle includes at least one sensing device for acquiring environmental data, and the vehicle includes a control device configured to adjust the position of the folding device based on the environmental data. The sensing device can, in particular, enable targeted automatic adjustment of the folding device's position. Advantageously, this eliminates the need for user input. It is possible to combine several, and especially different, sensing devices. In particular, several types of sensing devices, as described herein, can be combined.

[0019] Advantageously, the at least one detection device comprises at least one light sensor for acquiring light sensor data, wherein the at least one light sensor is configured in particular to detect sunlight depending on its direction, wherein the at least one light sensor is configured to transmit the light sensor data to the control device, wherein the control device is configured to receive the light sensor data and, based on the light sensor data, to adjust the position of the folding device in order to optimize light absorption by the at least one second solar module and / or the at least one first solar module. Optionally, the at least one detection device can comprise a plurality of light sensors, in particular at least three light sensors.Three light sensors can be configured and / or arranged to detect light from three directions, in particular three cardinal directions or three coordinate directions. The at least one light sensor can be configured to detect light, in particular the irradiance of the light, from multiple directions, preferably from a 180° radius. The at least one light sensor can be a pyranometer or comprise a pyranometer. A pyranometer is generally a sensor for measuring the irradiance of the sun, in particular its direction-dependent irradiance. Preferably, a pyranometer can be configured to enable the detection of sunlight over an angular range, in particular over an angular range of 180°. Advantageously, the position of the folding device can thus be adjusted to a changing position of the sun or to changes in solar radiation throughout the day.

[0020] Advantageously, at least one of the light sensors is designed to detect reflected sunlight as part of the light sensor data, so that, in particular, the adjustment of the folding mechanism can also be based on light sensor data of the reflected sunlight. For example, the light sensor for detecting reflected sunlight can be oriented laterally and / or downwards. Advantageously, the solar array can thus be designed to also detect the reflection of sunlight and also use the reflected radiation for energy generation. This can further improve the efficiency of the solar array.

[0021] Advantageously, the at least one detection device comprises at least one environmental sensor, in particular a distance sensor, for detecting obstacle data in the vicinity of the vehicle. The environmental sensor is configured to transmit the detected obstacle data to the control device, which is configured to receive the obstacle data and adjust the position of the folding device based on the obstacle data, in particular to avoid collisions with obstacles in the vicinity of the vehicle. The distance sensor can, for example, be a LiDAR (Light Detection and Ranging) sensor or an ultrasonic sensor. A LiDAR sensor is a sensor for optical distance measurement. Typically, laser beams are used in a manner similar to radio waves in radar.Specifically, laser pulses are emitted and reflected light signals are detected to determine the distance to the reflecting object based on the light's travel time. A distance sensor can then determine the distance to the vehicle and, optionally, the direction in which an obstacle is located. This allows obstacles in the vicinity to be automatically taken into account, thus reducing the risk of accidents and / or damage to the solar array.

[0022] Advantageously, the at least one detection device comprises at least one sensor for detecting a shadow, wherein the at least one environmental sensor is configured to transmit the detected shadow data to the control device, wherein the control device is configured to receive the shadow data and adjust the position of the folding device based thereon.

[0023] Advantageously, the at least one detection device comprises at least one weather measuring device for detecting weather data in the vicinity of the vehicle, wherein the at least one weather measuring device is configured to transmit the detected weather data to the control device, the control device being configured to receive the weather data and to adjust the position of the folding device based on the weather data. The weather measuring device may, in particular, be or comprise a mobile weather station. The weather measuring device may be configured to detect one or more of the following as weather data: temperature, precipitation (in particular rainfall), air pressure, and wind speed. The weather measuring device may include one or more of the following: thermometer, hygrometer, barometer, anemometer, and rain gauge.Advantageously, the solar array can therefore independently detect weather conditions and react accordingly. For example, it can prevent the array from unfolding during a storm.

[0024] Advantageously, the vehicle includes a solar charge controller designed to determine the yield of the vehicle's solar modules. The solar charge controller can be part of the control unit or integrated into it. The solar charge controller can be designed to control the charging and discharging of an energy storage system powered by the solar modules, in particular to prevent deep discharge and / or overcharging of the energy storage system. For example, the solar charge controller can be designed to adjust the orientation of the second solar modules when the energy storage system is full or nearly full, so that fewer light rays strike the solar cells of the modules. Advantageously, the effectiveness of the solar array can be monitored and determined using the solar charge controller. In particular, the solar charge controller is designed to send a notification to a user if the yield of the solar modules falls below a minimum threshold.This allows, for example, a notification to be sent to the user when a performance deficit is detected. The vehicle can, for instance, include a warning device, such as a red LED, and be designed to transmit the notification via this device. Additionally or alternatively, the vehicle can be designed to send the notification to a user app, for example, via mobile network and / or the internet and / or Wi-Fi. This allows a user to be notified even when they are not near the vehicle. The app can, for example, be configured to deliver the notification to the user via push notification.

[0025] Advantageously, the unfolding device comprises a frame in which at least one second solar module is embedded, and the vehicle optionally includes a motor unit configured to move the frame of the unfolding device to bring the unfolding device into a plurality of positions. The unfolding device may include a pivot axis about which the frame can be rotated for unfolding. The frame may be attached to pivot points about which it can be rotated. For example, two pivot points may be provided per pivot axis. The two pivot points may, in particular, be arranged on opposite sides of the frame along the pivot axis. The motor may, in particular, be arranged at a pivot point. The motor may be configured to drive a rotation of the frame about the pivot point.

[0026] Advantageously, at least one second solar module is designed as a bifacial solar module, which encompasses the two opposite sides of the solar cells. A bifacial solar module is generally a solar module that can absorb light from two sides, particularly two opposite sides. Specifically, a bifacial solar module comprises solar cell sides on two opposite sides. This advantageously allows for relatively simple and high flexibility in capturing sunlight energy. Particularly efficient energy generation is thus possible, especially in conjunction with the adjustability provided by the folding mechanism. Bifacial solar modules are generally known in the prior art; however, their use in vehicles as described herein represents a new application of such solar modules, which can specifically exploit their advantages.

[0027] Advantageously, the folding device comprises a plurality of, in particular essentially parallel, axes of rotation and a plurality of secondary solar modules that can be folded out one after the other. In particular, a pivot axis can be provided between each pair of consecutively foldable solar modules. For example, one motor can be provided for each pivot axis of the folding device. Alternatively or additionally, a connection system, such as a cable, belt, or chain system, can be provided so that the drive of one motor acts on several pivot axes. Optionally, the plurality of secondary solar modules can be folded at least partially over one another. Advantageously, even more efficient energy generation can be achieved with several consecutively foldable solar modules.Optionally, the folding device can also include a plurality of second solar modules arranged next to each other, particularly in the direction of a rotation axis.

[0028] Advantageously, the vehicle comprises multiple primary solar modules and fold-out devices with secondary solar modules, with at least two fold-out devices being capable of being extended in opposite directions. For example, viewed from the front of the vehicle, a primary solar module with an associated fold-out device can be positioned side-by-side on the left and right sides of the vehicle's upper surface. This allows for the utilization of available space on both sides of the vehicle, and the solar modules can be flexibly oriented depending on the available space on different sides of the vehicle.

[0029] According to a further aspect of the invention, the use of at least one double-sided solar unit, comprising two opposing solar cell sides for receiving solar energy, and in particular comprising at least one bifacial solar module, is provided for on a vehicle, especially for receiving solar energy through direct and reflected light radiation. All advantages, features, and characteristics of the vehicle can be transferred analogously to its use and vice versa.

[0030] Further advantages and features of the present invention will become apparent from the following description with reference to the figures. Individual features disclosed in the illustrated embodiments may also be used in other embodiments, unless this has been expressly excluded. The figures show: Fig. 1 a solar arrangement according to an embodiment of the invention in a folded position; Fig. 2 a solar arrangement according to the in Fig. 1 embodiment of the invention shown in an unfolded position; Fig. 3 a solar arrangement according to a further embodiment of the invention, which is set in a first partially unfolded position; Fig. 4 a solar arrangement according to the in Fig. 3 embodiment of the invention shown, which is set in a second partially unfolded position; Fig. 5 a vehicle according to an embodiment of the invention; Fig. 6 a solar arrangement according to the embodiment of Fig. 5; Fig. 7 an upper section of a vehicle according to the embodiment of Fig. 5, wherein the vehicle comprises a detection device with at least one light sensor for detecting light sensor data and the unfolding device is in a first unfolded position; Fig. 8 an upper section of a vehicle according to the embodiment of Fig. 5, wherein the vehicle includes a detection device with at least one light sensor for detecting light sensor data and the folding device is in a further unfolded position; Fig. 9 a vehicle according to the embodiment of Fig. 5 shown, wherein the vehicle includes at least one light sensor and at least one ambient sensor; Fig. 10 a solar arrangement of a vehicle according to the embodiment of Fig. Figure 5 shows the two folding devices with their solar units set in different unfolded positions; Fig. 11 a solar arrangement of a vehicle according to the embodiment of Fig. 5 shown next to an obstacle in the form of a building, with the two folding devices with their solar units set in different unfolded positions; Fig. 12 a solar arrangement of a vehicle according to the embodiment of Fig. 5, wherein the two folding devices with their solar units are set in different unfolded positions adapted to a light reflection from a building; Fig. 13 a solar arrangement of a vehicle according to a further embodiment of the invention in a folded position; Fig. 14 a solar arrangement of a vehicle according to a further embodiment of the invention in a folded position; Fig. 15 a solar arrangement of a vehicle according to the embodiment of Fig. 14 in an unfolded position; and Fig. 16 a solar arrangement of a vehicle according to the embodiment of Fig. 14 in another unfolded position.

[0031] In Fig. 1 and Fig. Figure 2 shows a solar array 2 according to an embodiment of the invention, which is mounted on the roof of a vehicle 1, in this example a recreational vehicle. The solar array 2 is arranged and mounted on the upper surface of the living area 5 of the vehicle 1. The solar array 2 comprises four first solar modules 11, which are mounted across the upper surface of the vehicle 1. Furthermore, the solar array 2 comprises two folding devices 20 with laterally foldable solar units 21. The two folding devices 20 can be folded out in opposite directions. The solar units 21 each comprise two second solar modules 22 arranged side by side. The second solar modules 22 are each enclosed in a frame 25 of the folding device 20.A motor unit 24 is arranged on a pivot axis 26 of the frame 25. This motor unit is designed to move the frame 25 of the folding device 20 in order to bring the folding device 20 into a plurality of positions. In this case, the motor unit 24 is particularly relevant for the front frame 25. Fig. Figure 1 shows the folding device 20 in a folded position, so that the second solar modules 22 are arranged above and cover the first solar modules 11. Fig. In Figure 2, the folding device 20 is set in an extended position, so that the first solar modules 11 are free upwards and their solar cells can absorb sunlight from above and convert it into electrical energy. In this extended position, the folding device 20 is folded laterally beyond the edge of the vehicle 1. The second solar modules 22 are bifacial solar modules, meaning that the solar units 21 have solar cells on opposite sides for absorbing solar energy. This allows the solar units 21 to absorb solar energy in both the folded and extended positions.

[0032] In Fig. 3 and Fig. Figure 4 shows a solar arrangement 2 according to a further embodiment of the invention, which is set in different partially unfolded positions. In this embodiment, the solar arrangement 2 comprises two first solar modules 11, which are mounted flat on the upper surface of the vehicle 1, one on the right and one on the left as viewed in the direction of travel. The solar arrangement 2 further comprises two folding devices 20 with laterally foldable solar units 21, each comprising two opposite sides of solar cells for receiving solar energy. The two folding devices 20 can be folded out in opposite directions. The solar units 21 each comprise a second solar module 22. The second solar modules 22 are each enclosed in a frame 25 of the folding device 20.A motor unit 24 is arranged on a pivot axis 26 of each frame 25, which is designed to move the frame 25 of the folding device 20 in order to bring the folding device 20 into a plurality of positions. Fig. Figure 3 shows the folding device 20 in a first unfolded position, such that the second solar modules 22 are arranged slightly differently from a vertical position. Fig. In section 4, the folding device 20 is set in a second unfolded position, such that the second solar modules 22 are arranged almost horizontally. In this unfolded position, the folding device 20 extends laterally beyond the edge of the vehicle 1, of which just a portion of the roof is visible.

[0033] In Fig. Figure 5 is a vehicle 1, namely in this case a recreational vehicle, shown according to an embodiment of the invention. The vehicle 1 comprises a solar array 2 mounted on the roof of the vehicle 1. The solar array 2 is, in particular, mounted on the upper surface of a living area 5 and / or passenger area of ​​the vehicle 1 or is located above the living area 5 and / or passenger area. The solar array 2 comprises two first solar modules 11, each mounted flat on the roof of the vehicle 1, and two folding devices 20, each with a laterally foldable solar unit 21, each comprising a second solar module 22 and two opposing solar cell sides for receiving solar energy. The solar array 2 can, in particular, correspond to that described in the Fig. 3 and Fig. 4 is shown.

[0034] Fig. Figure 6 shows an enlarged view of solar array 2 of Fig. 5 in a folded position. The pivot axes 26 of the folding devices 20 are also indicated, as well as a motor unit 24 for driving the folding devices 20. The indicated motor unit 24 is specifically intended for the folding device 20 on the left in the image. For the folding device 20 on the right in the image, a further motor unit 24 can be used on the other side (the back side when viewed in the image plane). Fig. 6) should be provided.

[0035] Vehicle 1 according to Fig. 5 preferably comprises at least one detection device for capturing environmental data and a control device configured to adjust the position of the folding device 20 based on the environmental data. Various possibilities for such a detection device are described in the Fig. Numbers 7 to 12 are indicated. These possibilities can also be combined.

[0036] In Fig. 7 In Fig. 8 is an upper section of a vehicle 1 according to the embodiment of Fig. Figure 5 shows that in this case, vehicle 1 includes a detection device with at least one light sensor for acquiring light sensor data (the light sensor is not explicitly shown here). The at least one light sensor is specifically designed to detect sunlight depending on its direction. The light sensor transmits the light sensor data to a control device, which adjusts the position of the folding device 20 based on the light sensor data. This allows for the optimization of light absorption by the second solar modules 22 and the first solar module 11. Fig. Figure 7 shows the folding device 20 in a first unfolded position and in Fig. Figure 8 shows the folding device 20 in a further unfolded position, namely a partially unfolded position. In the first unfolded position, the folding devices 20 are fully extended so that the first solar modules 11 and the second solar modules 22 are arranged approximately parallel to each other in one plane. In both positions, the folding device 20 extends laterally beyond an edge of the vehicle 1. Depending on the position of the sun and, if applicable, other factors, a more favorable position can be selected. Optionally, the vehicle 1 can include a solar charge controller designed to determine the yield of the solar modules 11 and 22 of the vehicle 1. The solar charge controller can be designed to send a message to a user if the yield of the solar modules 11 and 22 falls below a minimum threshold.

[0037] In Fig. 9 is a vehicle 1 according to the embodiment of Fig. Figure 5 shows that in this case, the vehicle 1 comprises several detection devices, namely at least one light sensor for acquiring light sensor data and at least one ambient sensor. The light sensor acquires light sensor data such as those related to the Fig. 7 and Fig. The ambient light sensor detects obstacles in the vicinity of the vehicle 1 in the form of obstacle data. The ambient light sensor can be, for example, a distance sensor such as LiDAR. Like the light sensor data, the detected obstacle data is also transmitted to the control device. The control device also takes the obstacle data into account to adjust the position of the folding devices 20 with the solar units 21. In particular, the folding devices 20 or the solar units 21 can be prevented from unfolding if obstacles are detected.

[0038] In Fig. 10 is a solar arrangement 2 of a vehicle 1 according to the embodiment of Fig. Figure 5 shows the two folding devices 20 with their solar units 21 in different extended positions. This can be useful, for example, if there is an obstacle on one side but not on the other, or at least if there is more space available on the other side. An example of this is shown in Fig. Figure 11 shows that a building is in the way on one side, so that one of the two folding devices 20 with its solar unit 21 remains in the folded position, while the other folding device 20 with its solar unit 21 is set in a partially unfolded position.

[0039] In Fig. 12 is a solar arrangement 2 of a vehicle 1 according to the embodiment of Fig. Figure 5 shows the two folding devices 20 with their solar units 21 in different extended positions. In this variant, at least one light sensor is designed to detect reflected sunlight as part of the light sensor data, so that a folding device 20 with its solar unit 21 can also be adjusted based on light sensor data of the reflected sunlight. In this example, sunlight is reflected from a building, and the solar unit 21 closest to the building is adjusted accordingly to capture the reflected sunlight effectively.

[0040] In addition to the ones in the Fig. In addition to the detection devices described in sections 5 to 12, further types of detection devices may be provided. For example, a weather measuring device may be provided to detect weather data in the vicinity of the vehicle 1, which detects weather data and transmits it to the control device. The control device is designed to receive the weather data and, based on this weather data, to adjust the position of the folding devices 20 with the solar units 21.

[0041] In the Fig. Figures 13-16 show solar arrays 2 of vehicles 1 according to embodiments of the invention, the folding devices 20 of which each comprise a plurality of substantially parallel axes of rotation 26 for several second solar modules 22. Otherwise, the solar arrays 2 can correspond in particular to those shown in the previous figures, especially Fig. 5 to 12, are shown. The second solar modules 22 can be folded out one after the other, as shown in the Fig. 15 and Fig. Figure 16 shows that by providing multiple axes of rotation 26, greater flexibility with regard to the unfolded positions can be achieved. In the embodiment according to Fig. In section 14, the second solar modules 22 or the solar units 21 are folded on top of each other. This allows space to be saved on the top of the vehicle 1 in the folded position, which in turn allows for more solar modules 11, 22 or more other components to be accommodated on the top of the vehicle 1. Reference symbol list: 1 vehicle 2 Solar array 5 Living area 11 first solar module 20 Folding device 21 solar units 22 second solar module 24 motor unit 25 frames 26 axis of rotation

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