Controlled Floating Solar Modules

Abstract

A buoyancy module includes a base configured to be buoyantly supported within a body of water, the base defining a space in fluid communication with the body of water, and a fluid-holding container sized and adapted to be received within the space and move in a vertical dimension relative to the base, the vertical position of the container relative to the base being determined, at least in part, by the fluid level within the container.

Description

[Technical field]

[0001] CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS This application claims the benefit of priority from U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 62 / 801,747, entitled "FLOATING SOLAR PANEL MODULE," filed February 6, 2019, the contents of which are incorporated herein by reference in their entirety.

[0002] The present invention, in some embodiments thereof, relates to the field of photovoltaic power systems, and more particularly, but not exclusively, to floating solar panel modules for photovoltaic power systems. [Background technology]

[0003] Solar energy is a clean, inexhaustible natural resource and one of the most promising renewable energy technologies. A major step towards global energy sustainability would require only a small fraction of the solar radiation that reaches the Earth annually. However, the land area required for a solar power plant to provide the same generating capacity and security of supply as a conventional power plant is very large.

[0004] Therefore, transferring solar power to lakes, artificial reservoirs, and / or the ocean for efficient use of available surface area could improve land use while preserving human habitation and land for agriculture, and protecting nature reserves, for example, by utilizing space designated for other industrial uses. Therefore, floating solar arrays have attracted a lot of interest in recent years.

[0005] The foregoing examples of the related art and limitations associated therewith are intended to be illustrative and not exhaustive. Other limitations of the related art will become apparent to those of ordinary skill in the art upon reading this specification and studying the drawings. Summary of the Invention

[0006] The following embodiments and aspects thereof are described and illustrated in conjunction with systems, tools, and methods that are meant to be exemplary and illustrative, not limiting in scope.

[0007] In one embodiment, there is provided a buoyancy module comprising a base configured to be buoyantly supported within a body of water, the base defining a space in fluid communication with the body of water, and a fluid-holding container sized and adapted to be received within the space and move in a vertical dimension relative to the base, wherein the vertical position of the container relative to the base is determined, at least in part, by the fluid level within the container.

[0008] In some embodiments, the base is a container and the space is an interior chamber of the container.

[0009] In some embodiments, the vessel is a double-walled vessel comprising an outer wall and an inner wall, the gap between the outer wall and the inner wall being configured to be at least partially filled with a ballast comprising one or more of a liquid and a solid.

[0010] In some embodiments, the base comprises at least two spaced apart hulls, the hulls being rigidly interconnected to one another and the space being defined between the hulls.

[0011] In some embodiments, the base is at least partially filled with a ballast comprising one or more of a liquid and a solid.

[0012] In some embodiments, the movement in the vertical dimension of the container is in the range of 10 to 300 cm.

[0013] In some embodiments, the module further comprises a mount coupled to the base and configured to pivotally mount a solar panel thereon, the solar panel being tiltable relative to the mount about a pivot point.

[0014] In some embodiments, the module further comprises a tilt mechanism configured to translate said movement in the vertical dimension of said container into said pivotable movement of said solar panel about said pivot point.

[0015] In some embodiments, the tilt mechanism is configured to tilt the solar panel between 25° and 75° to either side relative to the horizontal.

[0016] In some embodiments, the tilt mechanism is configured such that the center of gravity of the solar panel is located below or above the pivot point.

[0017] In some embodiments, the tilt mechanism comprises one of a cable and pulley tilt mechanism, a crank tilt mechanism, and an arc slot tilt mechanism, a parallelogram with an underwater symmetric frame, and a parallelogram with an underwater asymmetric frame and push / pull rods.

[0018] In some embodiments, the vessel further comprises one or more openings configured to provide fluid communication between the body of water and the interior chamber, at least some of the one or more openings being dimensioned to regulate fluid flow rates between the body of water and the interior chamber.

[0019] In some embodiments, the regulation is accomplished through the use of a control valve configured to regulate the fluid flow rate between the body of water and the interior chamber.

[0020] In some embodiments, the module further comprises a control unit in fluid communication with the container, the control unit configured to selectively adjust a fluid level within the container.

[0021] In some embodiments, the module further comprises a pipe connected between said control unit and said container.

[0022] In some embodiments, the pipe is attached to the base and has at least an extendable portion configured to facilitate the movement of the container in a vertical dimension.

[0023] In some embodiments, the control unit further comprises a pump configured to pump the fluid through the pipe and into and / or out of the container.

[0024] In some embodiments, the control unit is configured to adjust the fluid level in the container based at least in part on the position of the sun on the ecliptic relative to the geographic location of the module.

[0025] In one embodiment, there is further provided a system comprising a plurality of buoyancy modules each comprising a base configured to be buoyantly supported within a body of water, each base defining a space in fluid communication with the body of water, and a fluid-holding container sized and adapted to be received within the space and move in a vertical dimension relative to the base, wherein a vertical position of the container relative to the base is based at least in part on a fluid level within the container, a framework comprising frame members configured to rigidly interconnect the modules in a designated arrangement, and a control unit in fluid communication with each of the containers, the control unit configured to selectively adjust the fluid level within the container.

[0026] In some embodiments, the plurality of modules are arranged in a grid array field comprising rows and columns.

[0027] In some embodiments, the base is a container and the space is an interior chamber of the container.

[0028] In some embodiments, the vessel is a double-walled vessel comprising an outer wall and an inner wall, the gap between the outer wall and the inner wall being configured to be at least partially filled with a ballast comprising one or more of a liquid and a solid.

[0029] In some embodiments, the base comprises at least two spaced apart hulls, the hulls being rigidly interconnected to one another and the space being defined between the hulls.

[0030] In some embodiments, the base is at least partially filled with a ballast comprising one or more of a liquid and a solid.

[0031] In some embodiments, the movement in the vertical dimension of the container is in the range of 10 to 300 cm.

[0032] In some embodiments, the base further comprises a mount coupled to the base and configured to pivotally mount a solar panel thereon, the solar panel being tiltable relative to the mount about a pivot point.

[0033] In some embodiments, the base further comprises a tilt mechanism configured to translate the movement of the container in the vertical dimension into the pivotable movement of the solar panel about the pivot point.

[0034] In some embodiments, the tilt mechanism is configured to tilt the solar panel between 25° and 75° on either side of the horizontal.

[0035] In some embodiments, the tilt mechanism is configured such that the center of gravity of the solar panel is located below or above the pivot point.

[0036] In some embodiments, the tilt mechanism comprises one of a cable and pulley tilt mechanism, a crank tilt mechanism, and an arc slot tilt mechanism, a parallelogram with an underwater symmetric frame, and a parallelogram with an underwater asymmetric frame and push / pull rods.

[0037] In some embodiments, the vessel further comprises one or more openings configured to provide fluid communication between the body of water and the interior chamber, at least some of the one or more openings being dimensioned to regulate fluid flow rates between the body of water and the interior chamber.

[0038] In some embodiments, the regulation is accomplished by using a control valve configured to regulate the fluid flow rate between the body of water and the interior chamber.

[0039] In some embodiments, the system further comprises a control unit in fluid communication with the container, the control unit configured to selectively adjust a fluid level within the container.

[0040] In some embodiments, the system further comprises a pipe grid configured to connect said control unit to each of said containers.

[0041] In some embodiments, the control unit further comprises a pump configured to pump the fluid through the pipe grid and into and / or out of the container.

[0042] In some embodiments, the control unit is configured to adjust the fluid level in the container based at least in part on the position of the sun on the ecliptic relative to the geographic location of the module.

[0043] In some embodiments, the solar panels are further configured to tilt in unison.

[0044] In some embodiments, the framework further comprises one or more lines configured to anchor the system.

[0045] In some embodiments, the one or more lines are further configured to facilitate adjustment of the azimuth angle of the system.

[0046] In one embodiment, a method is further provided that includes providing a system comprising a plurality of buoyant modules each comprising a base configured to be buoyantly supported within a body of water, each base defining a space in fluid communication with the body of water, and a fluid-holding container sized and adapted to be received within the space and move in a vertical dimension relative to the base, the vertical position of the container relative to the base being determined, at least in part, based on a fluid level within the container; rigidly interconnecting the modules in a designated arrangement using a framework comprising frame members configured to provide a control unit in fluid communication with each of the containers, the control unit configured to selectively adjust the fluid level within the container; and deploying the system in the body of water.

[0047] In some embodiments, the interconnection includes interconnecting the plurality of modules in a grid array field comprising rows and columns.

[0048] In some embodiments, the base is a container and the space is an interior chamber of the container.

[0049] In some embodiments, the vessel is a double-walled vessel comprising an outer wall and an inner wall, the gap between the outer wall and the inner wall being configured to be at least partially filled with a ballast comprising one or more of a liquid and a solid.

[0050] In some embodiments, the base comprises at least two spaced apart hulls, the hulls being rigidly interconnected to one another and the space being defined between the hulls.

[0051] In some embodiments, the base is at least partially filled with a ballast comprising one or more of a liquid and a solid.

[0052] In some embodiments, the movement in the vertical dimension of the container is in the range of 10 to 300 cm.

[0053] In some embodiments, the base further comprises a mount coupled to the base and configured to pivotally mount a solar panel thereon, the solar panel being tiltable relative to the mount about a pivot point.

[0054] In some embodiments, the base further comprises a tilt mechanism configured to translate the movement of the container in the vertical dimension into the pivotable movement of the solar panel about the pivot point.

[0055] In some embodiments, the tilt mechanism is configured to tilt the solar panel between 25° and 75° on either side of the horizontal.

[0056] In some embodiments, the tilt mechanism is configured such that the center of gravity of the solar panel is located below or above the pivot point.

[0057] In some embodiments, the tilt mechanism comprises one of a cable and pulley tilt mechanism, a crank tilt mechanism, and an arc slot tilt mechanism, a parallelogram with an underwater symmetric frame, and a parallelogram with an underwater asymmetric frame and push / pull rods.

[0058] In some embodiments, the vessel further comprises one or more openings configured to provide fluid communication between the body of water and the interior chamber, at least some of the one or more openings being dimensioned to regulate fluid flow rates between the body of water and the interior chamber.

[0059] In some embodiments, the regulation is accomplished by using a control valve configured to regulate the fluid flow rate between the body of water and the interior chamber.

[0060] In some embodiments, the system further comprises a control unit in fluid communication with the container, the control unit configured to selectively adjust a fluid level within the container.

[0061] In some embodiments, the system further comprises a pipe grid configured to connect the control unit to each of the containers.

[0062] In some embodiments, the control unit further comprises a pump configured to pump the fluid through the pipe grid and into and / or out of the container.

[0063] In some embodiments, the control unit is configured to adjust the fluid level in the container based at least in part on the position of the sun on the ecliptic relative to the geographic location of the module.

[0064] In some embodiments, the solar panels are further configured to tilt in unison.

[0065] In some embodiments, the framework further comprises one or more lines configured to anchor the system.

[0066] In some embodiments, the one or more lines are further configured to facilitate adjustment of the azimuth angle of the system.

[0067] In addition to the exemplary aspects and embodiments described above, further aspects and embodiments will become apparent by reference to the figures and by study of the following detailed description. [Brief description of the drawings]

[0068] Exemplary embodiments are illustrated in the reference figures. Dimensions of components and features shown in the figures have generally been chosen for convenience and clarity of presentation and have not necessarily been drawn to scale. The figures are as follows: [Figure 1A-1D] 1 illustrates an example of a floating solar panel module, according to some embodiments of the present invention. [Figure 2A] 1 illustrates a first exemplary base and container for a floating solar panel module, according to some embodiments. [Figure 2B-2D] 1 illustrates a second exemplary base for a floating solar panel module, according to some embodiments. [Figure 3A-3B] 1 illustrates an exemplary bottom closure of a base for a floating solar panel module according to some embodiments of the present invention. [Figure 4A-4D] 1 illustrates an exemplary mount, according to some embodiments of the present invention. [Figure 5A-5B] 1 is a schematic diagram of an exemplary solar panel support frame, according to some embodiments of the present invention. [Figures 6A-6D] 1 illustrates an exemplary container according to some embodiments of the present invention. [Figure 7A-7C] 1 illustrates a container guide for facilitating movement of a container, according to some embodiments of the present invention. [Figure 8A-8B] 13A-13C are schematic diagrams illustrating selective adjustment of a fluid level in a container according to some embodiments of the present invention; [Figure 9A-9D]1 illustrates a schematic diagram of an exemplary tilt mechanism, according to some embodiments of the present invention. [Figure 10A-10D] 1 illustrates a system comprising an array field of floating solar panel modules according to some embodiments of the present invention. [Figures 11A-11C] 1 illustrates a system including a floating solar panel module according to some embodiments of the present invention. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

[0069] Disclosed herein are floating modules configured for deployment in a body of water, such as an ocean, lake, or reservoir. In some embodiments, the floating module is a floating panel module. In some embodiments, the panel module comprises a solar panel. In some embodiments, the panel requiring tracking or other rotational motion comprises one or more antennas and / or other elements. The floating modules disclosed herein may be operable with a variety of moving elements, but for ease of explanation, from this point on, reference will be made only to floating solar panel modules. In some embodiments, the modules provide remote adjustment of the tilt angle of the solar panels, for example, to orient the solar panels toward the sun at different times during the day, as described in more detail elsewhere herein. In some embodiments, the modules comprise a simple hydrostatic tilt adjustment mechanism that does not require the use of hydraulic, pneumatic, servo, and / or other high precision electric motors, or any similar type of mechanism. In some embodiments, the hydrostatic tilt adjustment mechanism can be remotely controlled and operated via a fluid supply line connected to the module. In some embodiments, the tilt mechanism of the present invention is configured to mitigate sudden changes in the tilt angle of the solar panels, for example, caused by ambient wind conditions and frequent waves. In some embodiments, the tilt mechanism of the present invention is configured to optimize the efficiency of a panel by tilting the panel at an angle where efficiency is optimal. In some embodiments, the present invention is configured to optimize the efficiency of a panel by using double-sided panels, e.g., by not having a torque tube that shades the backside of such panels. In some embodiments, the tilt mechanism of the present invention is configured to optimize the efficiency of a panel by tilting the panel about multiple axes, the axes being spaced apart a particular distance from each other such that a panel tilted about a first axis does not cast a shadow on a panel tilted about a second axis (e.g., backtracking).

[0070] Also disclosed is a system comprising an array field of interconnected floating solar panel modules of the invention configured for deployment in a body of water. In some embodiments, the individual modules of the system may be rigidly interconnected such that they can withstand ambient wind, wave, and similar conditions. In some embodiments, the system may be configured to adjust the tilt angle of several or many solar panels in the array, either individually or in unison. In some embodiments, the system may be configured to adjust the orientation of the system within the body of water in response to, for example, changes in the direction of the sun, wind, ambient conditions, or seasons.

[0071] Thus, a potential advantage of the present invention is that it provides a tilt adjustable, low maintenance, floating solar panel module that efficiently operates as part of an array field of modules, has a minimal number of moving parts, occupies a relatively small footprint, is inexpensive to manufacture, and is easy to store, transport, and assemble on-site.

[0072] A potential advantage of an array of modules placed in a body of water with a framework comprising frame members configured to rigidly interconnect the floating modules is that the array would cover a small percentage of the body of water and therefore the effects of reduced sunlight and / or oxygen absorption from the water surface would be significantly less compared to a system constructed with interconnected floats.

[0073] In some embodiments, the invention comprises a base. In some embodiments, the base comprises two or more sections, such as hulls, configured to be buoyantly supported in a body of water. In some embodiments, the hulls are interconnected, e.g., in a spaced-apart arrangement, to create a space therebetween for receiving a moveable container, e.g., in a manner that allows movement of the container in a substantially vertical dimension.

[0074] In some embodiments, the hull combines a buoyancy and ballast system such that the hull achieves a desired floating height and orientation of the hull relative to the fluid level, e.g., of the body of water, and regains such desired floating height and orientation after a disturbance, such as in high wind and / or current conditions. For example, in some embodiments, the hull is hollow, and in some embodiments, the hull is configured to be fully or partially filled with water, another liquid, or a solid substance to provide the desired ballast. In some embodiments, a base is located adjacent to the container. In some embodiments, one or more bases are interspersed among multiple containers, as described in more detail elsewhere herein. In some embodiments, the base is separable from the container.

[0075] 1A-1D show an exemplary floating solar panel module of the present invention in side (FIG. 1A), front (FIG. 1B), and perspective (FIG. 1C-1D) views. Module 100, in some embodiments, comprises base 110. Base 110 may comprise a single vessel, or in some embodiments, two or more sections, configured to be buoyantly supported in a body of water. In some embodiments, module 100 comprises one or more mounts, such as mount 130, coupled to base 110. In some embodiments, mount 130 is connected to the top of base 110. Solar panel support frame 170, which holds solar panel 160, may be pivotally attached to mount 130 to allow adjustment of the tilt angle of support frame 170 relative to the horizontal.

[0076] In some embodiments, the container 140 is received within a flooded interior of the base 110. In embodiments where the base 110 comprises two or more sections, the container 140 may be received within a space between spaced apart sections of the base 110. In either case, the container 140 is configured to move in a vertical dimension relative to the base 110. In some embodiments, the container 140 is configured to move vertically in the range of 10-300 cm. In some embodiments, the container is a fluid-holding container. In some embodiments, the vertical position of the container 140 may be adjusted by selectively adjusting the fluid level within the container 140. In some embodiments, a tilt mechanism operably connects the support frame 170 and the container 140, such that a change in the vertical position of the container 140 relative to the base 110 is translated into a change in the tilt angle of the support frame 170, and therefore the solar panel 160, relative to a horizontal plane (X-axis) (e.g., FIGS. 9B and 9C; α, α′).

[0077] In some embodiments, the weight of the liquid within container 140 further provides a counterbalancing effect that helps maintain the position of container 140 and / or the overall module against disruptive external forces (such as wind). In some embodiments, the buoyancy of container 140 maintains the position of container 140 and balances the overall module against disruptive external forces (such as wind). In some embodiments, the buoyancy of container 140 prevents container 140 from being pushed into the water, while the weight of container 140 prevents container 140 from being pulled out of the water.

[0078] 2A shows an exemplary embodiment of a base and container according to one embodiment. In some embodiments, the base 110 may comprise two or more sections, such as the hull 102. The hull 102 may be interconnected, for example in a spaced-apart arrangement, to create a space 108 for receiving a movable container, such as the container 140 of FIG. 1A, in a manner that allows movement of the container 140 in a substantially vertical dimension.

[0079] In some embodiments, each hull 102 is configured to be buoyantly supported within the body of water. In some embodiments, the buoyancy level and stability characteristics of the hull 102 are determined based, at least in part, on at least one of the dimensions, volume, and footprint of the hull 102. In some embodiments, a buoyancy and ballast system is combined such that the hull 102 achieves a desired floating height and orientation of the hull 102 relative to the surface level of the body of water, and regains such desired floating height and orientation after a disturbance, such as in high wind and / or current conditions. For example, the hull 102 may be a hollow hull configured to be completely or partially filled with water, another liquid, or a solid material to provide the desired ballast. In other embodiments, the hull 102 may be a solid, only partially hollow, or completely hollow hull.

[0080] In some embodiments, each of the hulls 102 is configured to have a mounting arm 104 attached around the top of each hull 102 using one or more fastening methods. In some embodiments, each hull 102 is integrally formed with the mounting arm 104. In some embodiments, the two mounting arms 104, each located around the top of each hull 102, are configured to rigidly interconnect with one another, for example, using one or more interconnectors 106, to create a rigid base 110 comprising the hulls 102 in a defined, spaced, side-by-side arrangement, as described above. In some embodiments, one or more of the mounting arms 104 and interconnectors 106 are integral with a seal of the base 102, as described in more detail elsewhere herein.

[0081] 2B-2D illustrate another exemplary base 110 of the present invention in perspective (FIG. 2B), side (FIG. 2C), and top (FIG. 2D) views. In some embodiments, the base 110 defines a vessel having an interior chamber 118 and configured to be buoyantly supported within the body of water. In some embodiments, the buoyancy level and stability characteristics of the base 110 are determined, at least in part, based on at least one of the dimensions, volume, and footprint of the base 110. In some embodiments, the base 110 combines a buoyancy and ballast system such that the base 110 achieves a desired floating height and orientation of the base 110 relative to the surface level of the body of water, and regains such desired floating height and orientation after any disturbance, such as in high wind and / or current conditions.

[0082] In an exemplary embodiment, base 110 may comprise a double-walled structure comprising an outer wall 112 and an inner wall 114, with a gap 116 between the outer and inner walls configured to be at least partially submerged to provide ballast to base 110. In other embodiments, base 110 may comprise one or more additional ballasts and / or other types of ballast. Base 110 may be formed from any suitable material, such as various types of polymers. In some embodiments, base 110 may be manufactured using methods such as injection molding, vacuum forming, and / or similar methods. In some embodiments, base 110 may be shaped to facilitate nesting or stacking to aid in storage and transportation.

[0083] In some embodiments, as described in more detail elsewhere herein, the interior chamber 118 can be configured to be in fluid communication with a body of water outside the base 110 such that the water level within the interior chamber 118 is substantially determined by the water surface level of the body of water.

[0084] In some embodiments, the base 110 may define an open-bottomed vessel, and the bottom opening of the base / vessel 110 may be covered with a closure. Figures 3A-3D show an exemplary bottom closure 125 configured to cover the bottom of the base 110 in top (Figure 3A) and bottom (Figure 3B) perspective views. In some embodiments, the bottom closure 125 comprises one or more raised supports 139 configured to fit within the base 110. In some embodiments, the bottom closure 125 may comprise an opening, such as opening 122 configured to allow fluid communication between the interior chamber 118 and the body of water, as described in more detail elsewhere herein.

[0085] 4A-4D show an exemplary mount 130 in a top perspective view (FIG. 4A), a bottom perspective view (FIG. 4B), and a side view (FIG. 4C). In some embodiments, the mount 130 can be configured to attach to the top of the base 110, for example, with a number of fasteners. In some embodiments, the mount 130 connects to the base 110 in a sealing engagement, the connection providing a seal against the escape of liquids into the interior of the base 110. In some embodiments, the mount 130 comprises one or more support posts 132 configured to pivotally attach a solar panel support frame, such as the support frame 170 of FIGS. 1A and 1D.

[0086] In some embodiments, mount 130 is configured to seal to base 110 and / or hull 102, for example as shown in Figures 4B, 4C, and 4D. In some embodiments, mount 130 includes a shoulder 133 configured to secure onto base 110 and / or hull 102. In some embodiments, mount 130 includes an opening 137 sized to fit container 140. In some embodiments, container 140 can move through opening 137 in mount 130.

[0087] Typically, solar panels are constructed similarly to a photograph in a frame, with solar cells laminated between a transparent front cover and a protective back layer, and the laminate mounted within a substantially flat metal frame that is rectangular in perimeter. Thus, in some embodiments, a solar panel 160 may be mounted to a support frame 170, such as that shown in Figures 1A-1D.

[0088] 5A-5B are schematic diagrams of an exemplary solar panel support frame 170 that may be used in conjunction with the present invention.

[0089] 5A, movement of the frame 170 changes the force applied to the axis 172 by the weight of the panels and frame 170. In some embodiments, the center of gravity of the frame 170 and / or the panels is adjustable about the pivot. In some embodiments, adjusting the center of gravity about the pivot dynamically eliminates disturbing forces, for example as shown in 5B.

[0090] In some embodiments, the support frame 170 may comprise a horizontal longitudinal shaft that can provide a pivot point, for example, along a central longitudinal axis of the support frame 170. In some embodiments, the pivot point comprises an axis of rotation about which the frame 170 rotates. In some embodiments, movement of the support frame 170 changes the location of the center of gravity of the support frame 170 relative to the module 100. In some embodiments, the center of gravity of the support frame 170 is adjustable with respect to the pivot axis.

[0091] A potential advantage of having the center of gravity of the support frame 170 and / or panels adjustable is that the center of gravity may be adjusted such that one or more external forces applied to the support frame 170 and / or panels can be countered in part and / or in whole by the center of gravity of the support frame 170 and / or panels. In some embodiments, the center of gravity of the support frame 170 and / or panels is adjusted by taking into account the external forces acting on the support frame 170 and / or panels.

[0092] In some embodiments, the support frame 170 may be pivotally mounted to a mount, such as mount 130 of FIG. 1A, or to the mounting arm 104. In some embodiments, the pivot point about which the support frame 170 pivots may be located in the same plane as the support frame 170. In some embodiments, the pivot point about which the support frame 170 pivots may be located below the plane of the support frame 170. In other embodiments, the pivot point may be located above the plane of the support frame 170 to lower the center of gravity of the support frame 170, thereby creating a self-centering effect about the axis 172.

[0093] A potential advantage of a pivot point having the same height as the center of gravity of the support frame 170 is that it eliminates the dynamic moment caused by the weight of the support frame 170 being applied to the pivot point relative to a similar force applied to a pivot point that is not aligned with the support frame 170.

[0094] 6A-6D show an exemplary container 140 of the present invention in a top perspective view (FIG. 6A), a bottom perspective view (FIG. 6B), a side view (FIG. 6C), and a top view (FIG. 6D). In some embodiments, the container 140 defines a receptacle for fluids that is dimensioned to be received within the interior chamber 118 (FIG. 2B) or space 108 (FIG. 2A) of the base 110 and to slide relative to the base 110 in a vertical dimension.

[0095] 7A-7C show an exemplary container guide 148 that may be configured to attach to the container 140 and slide relative to the interior wall 114 of the base 110 to align with and facilitate vertical movement of the container 140 within the interior chamber 118. In some embodiments, the container guide 148 may comprise multiple slide rails 149, e.g., 2-6 slide rails 149, that define a receiving space for the container 140 and facilitate controlled vertical movement of the container 140 under guidance that, for example, receives one or more vertical slots in the interior wall of the base 110.

[0096] Returning to FIGS. 6A-6D, in some embodiments, container 140 may be configured to be emptied and / or filled with a fluid, such as water, from a remote location via opening 142 in container 140. In some embodiments, opening 142 may include a spout 144 (seen in FIG. 6B). Container 140 may be formed from any suitable material, such as various types of polymers. In some embodiments, container 140 may be manufactured using methods such as injection molding, vacuum forming, and / or similar methods. In some embodiments, container 140 may be shaped to facilitate nesting or stacking to aid in storage and / or transportation.

[0097] In some embodiments, openings 142 can be located in any one or more of the walls of container 140. In some embodiments, fluid fills and / or drains container 140 through any one or more of the side walls, the top of container 140, and the bottom of container 140 using a flexible pipe whose end is fastened to the bottom of container 140.

[0098] As noted above, the interior chamber 118 of the base 110 is in fluid communication with the body of water surrounding the base 110 such that the fluid level within the interior chamber 118 is substantially equal to the surface level of the body of water. In the case of the multi-section base 110 seen in FIG. 2A, the space 108 is located within the surrounding body of water.

[0099] Thus, in some embodiments, container 140 may be configured to be buoyantly supported within interior chamber 118 or space 108, as the case may be, and the buoyant height of container 140 may be determined by the fluid level within container 140. In some embodiments, the buoyant height of container 140 may be adjusted by varying the fluid level within container 140. In some embodiments, container 140 may slide within interior chamber 118 or space 108, as the case may be, such that at its highest position, the top of container 140 may extend above the top of base 110.

[0100] 8A-8B show schematic diagrams of selective adjustment of the fluid level in the container 140 within the context of a base 110 having an internal chamber 118 (FIG. 8A) or space 108 (FIG. 8B). In some embodiments, the outlet 144 may be connected to a fluid conduit supply system comprising a rigid pipe 150, for example, configured to supply fluid from a remote location. An end of the rigid pipe 150 may be inserted into the base 110 through an opening 120 (also shown in FIGS. 1A, 1C, 1D, and 2A). Within the base 110, the rigid pipe 150 may be connected to a flexible section 148 configured to supply fluid to the container 140 while allowing vertical movement of the container 140 relative to the base 110. The amount of fluid supplied to or removed from the container 140 via the rigid pipe 150 determines the level of fluid in the container 140 and affects the buoyancy of the container 140 within the base 110. The controlled flow of fluid volumes into and out of the container 140 controllably affects the buoyancy of the container 140, resulting in controllable vertical movement of the container 140 relative to the base 110, as shown in Figures 9A and 9B.

[0101] 9A-9B show schematic diagrams of an exemplary tilt mechanism configured to translate vertical movement of container 140 into changes in tilt angle of support frame 170. In FIG. 9B, container 140 is maximally filled with fluid such that its buoyancy level relative to base 110 is at its lowest level, which translates to a maximum tilt angle in a first direction relative to horizontal. In FIG. 9C, container 140 is minimally filled with fluid such that its buoyancy level relative to base 110 is at its highest level, which translates to a maximum tilt angle in the opposite direction relative to horizontal. Thus, by controlling the fluid level in container 140, all tilt angles within this range can be achieved.

[0102] In some embodiments, the tilt mechanism of the present invention can be configured to tilt the support frame 170 from 0° to 25°-75° on either side relative to horizontal, e.g., on the front and back of the module 100. In some embodiments, such tilting of the support frame 170 from 0° to 25°-75° is performed on only one side, e.g., on the front or back of the module 100.

[0103] 9A shows a schematic diagram of an exemplary embodiment of a cable and pulley tilt mechanism. A cable 900 is connected to the container 140 at top and bottom points 900a, 900b, and to the support frame 170 at two opposite points on either side of the pivot point 135. The cable 900 is then routed to the bottom region of the base 110 via pulleys, e.g., pulleys 902a, 902b. Thus, upward vertical movement of the container 140 exerts a pulling force on the cable 900 via connection point 900a, while downward movement of the container 140 exerts an opposite pulling force on the cable 900 via connection point 900b. In either case, a pulling force exerted in either way on the cable 900 is translated into a pivoting movement of the support frame 170. Because the cable / pulley arrangement converts the vertical movement of the container 140 into a pulling force, the conversion to pivoting motion is expected to be smoother and with less mechanical slack and play. In some embodiments, the container 140 may be mounted substantially above the pulley 902a to ensure smooth operation and self-centering forces.

[0104] In some embodiments, another exemplary tilt mechanism shown in FIGS. 9B-9C may include a crank-like arrangement including a tilt crank bracket 173 coupled to a support frame 170 and a link rod 172 connected to the crank bracket 173 at a first pivot point 172a and to the container 140 at a second pivot point 172b.

[0105] 9D illustrates another exemplary embodiment of a tilt mechanism that may be used to translate vertical movement of the container 140 into rotational movement of the support frame 170. For example, the support frame 170 may include one or more brackets 175 with arcuate guide slots 138, and the container 140 may be operably connected to guide pins 135 that fit within the guide slots 138. Thus, in some embodiments, movement of the container 140 in the vertical dimension is translated into angular movement of the frame 170. In some embodiments, the tilt mechanism includes a push-pull mechanism of rods coupled to one or more of the container 140 and the support frame 170. In some embodiments, pushing and / or pulling the rods changed the position of the frame 170 relative to the container 140.

[0106] In some embodiments, the interior chamber 118 may be configured to be in fluid communication with the body of water outside the base 110 such that the water level within the interior chamber 118 is substantially determined by the surface level of the body of water. In some embodiments, the fluid communication of the interior chamber 118 may be provided by, for example, one or more openings in the side and / or bottom regions of the interior chamber 118. In some embodiments, such openings may be dimensioned to provide controlled fluid flow between the interior chamber 118 and the body of water so as to avoid any sudden fluid level changes within the interior chamber 118, which may affect the tilt angle of the solar panel, as described in more detail elsewhere herein. In some embodiments, one or more of these openings may include a control valve and / or similar device to provide controlled fluid communication with the body of water.

[0107] In some embodiments, the base 110 may define an open-bottom container, and the bottom opening of the base / container 110 may be covered with a closure. In some embodiments, the bottom closure 125 comprises one or more raised supports 139 configured to fit within the base 110.

[0108] In some embodiments, bottom closure 125 may include an opening, such as opening 122, configured to allow fluid communication between interior chamber 118 and the body of water. In some embodiments, opening 122 may be dimensioned to provide controlled fluid flow between interior chamber 118 and the body of water so as to avoid any sudden fluid level changes in interior chamber 118. In some embodiments, bottom closure 125 may include a control valve and / or similar device in fluid communication with the body of water.

[0109] 10A-10C show a system comprising an array field 190 of solar panel modules 100 of the present invention (FIGS. 1A-1D). In some embodiments, the array field 190 of the present invention may comprise a plurality of modules 100 arranged according to some assembly scheme, for example arranged in a matrix. Typically, the field will have a generally rectangular or square shape, although such a shape is not required. In some embodiments, the array field 190 may have an irregular shape such that it may conform to the area shape of the body of water in which it is installed.

[0110] In some embodiments, the modules 100 in the array field 190 may be interconnected using a rigid frame system 220. In some embodiments, two or more modules 100 in the array field may be in fluid communication such that the fluid levels in the respective containers 140 in each module 100 may communicate between all modules 100 that are in fluid communication. In some embodiments, such fluid communication may occur across rows, columns, diagonals, and / or the entire array field 190. In some embodiments, such fluid communication serves to substantially equalize the fluid pressures and / or fluid levels in the respective containers 140 in the modules 100 in communication.

[0111] In some embodiments, the bases 110 / 102 and / or containers 140 form a matrix of bases 110 / 102 and containers 140. In some embodiments, the bases 110 / 102 and / or containers are positioned relative to one another to form a pattern. In some embodiments, a particular pattern of placement of the bases 110 / 102 and / or containers 140 communicates a particular buoyancy level throughout the matrix, and in some embodiments, a particular pattern creates a particular tilt pattern of the support frames 170 and / or panels.

[0112] In some embodiments, the interconnector 220 may be configured to withstand movement due to wind, waves, and / or currents. In some embodiments, the system may be designed to withstand wave conditions of up to 50 cm wave height and up to 400 cm wave length. Thus, in wave conditions that cause uneven water levels, as shown in FIG. 10A, the system as a whole may be configured to support the weight of the individual modules as they rumble up and down in the waves. As described above, the base 110 is configured for controlled fluid flow between the inner chamber 118 and the body of water to avoid sudden fluid level changes in the inner chamber 118 in uneven water level conditions.

[0113] In some embodiments, the array field of the present invention may include a closed fluid fill / drain system whereby fluid may be transferred from one or more containers 140 to other containers 140 within the array. For example, some (e.g., half) of the modules in the array may be inverted, resulting in a tilting movement in a first direction for one half of the array by filling the containers 140 with more fluid, and a tilting movement in the same first direction for the second half by emptying the containers 140. Thus, by transferring fluid in a closed system array from the first half of the containers 140 to the second half, coordinated tilting movement in the same direction of all solar panels in the array 190 is achieved.

[0114] In some embodiments, the modules 100 in the array field 190 may be spaced depending on the wave conditions of the body of water environment in which the system will be deployed. Thus, for example, the spacing of the modules relative to one another may be individually adjusted to minimize roll, pitch, yaw, wave, swell, and sway under the wave conditions most likely to be encountered in a particular environment of use.

[0115] In some embodiments, the array field 190 of the present invention may be configured to achieve different ground coverage ratios (GCR) of solar panels to field area.

[0116] In some embodiments, the field 190 of the present invention may be configured to adjust the GCR of a solar panel by adjusting the distance between two or more rows of modules and / or panels. In some embodiments, the distance between two or more rows is adjusted so that the GCR value is maximized. In some embodiments, the GCR associated with the distance between two or more rows is adjustable so that for a particular direction of the solar source, a row of panels does not cast a shadow on another row of panels. In some embodiments, when using bifacial solar panels, the reduced GCR increases efficiency and yield.

[0117] In some embodiments, the solar panels 160 in the array field 190 may be interconnected to move in unison, for example along each row of the array field 190. In some embodiments, the solar panel rows in the array field 190 may be interconnected to move in unison in unison.

[0118] In some embodiments, a supply grid of pipes 150 may be connected to each module in the array field 190 to enable fluid supply to each container 140, as described above with reference to FIG.

[0119] In some embodiments, the fluid provided may contain one or more of additives, supplements, and / or filtered fluids. For example, in some embodiments, the fluid includes additives configured to prevent freezing of the fluid, bacterial growth within the fluid, and / or prevent mineral deposits within the fluid system.

[0120] 10C, a mooring approach used to stabilize and protect the array field 190 of the present invention is shown in a schematic top plan view. The rectangular field shape allows the mooring and anchoring system of the present invention to use one or more running lines 240 for each of the four corners of the rectangular quadrant. The lines 240 may extend outward from the array to, for example, an anchor point on shore, a mooring buoy, or the like. In some embodiments, the lines 240 may be connected to a pulley system, winch system, and / or similar system to facilitate lateral movement of the array to different azimuth angles, as may be beneficial for solar azimuth tracking, for example, through different seasons of the year or in different sea or wind conditions.

[0121] In some embodiments, as shown in FIG. 10D, the anchoring and fixation system of the present invention may comprise a horizontal "yo-yo"-like arrangement in which two or more lines 250, 260 wrap around the array in opposite directions to facilitate rotational positioning of the array. Thus, a rotational force applied to the array by an environmental factor (e.g., wind) will slacken a first line (e.g., line 250) while placing a second line (e.g., line 260) in tension. When the rotational force is removed, the tensioned line 260 will return the array 190 to its original orientation. In some embodiments, the lines 250, 260 may be used to rotate the array 190 to a desired position. In some embodiments, such rotational positioning may allow the array 190 to be rotated more than 180 degrees on each side.

[0122] In some embodiments, the system of the present invention may include a control unit, which may be installed, for example, on shore. The control unit may be connected to a number of pumps and valves configured to remotely control and regulate the fluid levels in the container 140 by feeding and emptying the container 140 via pipes 150 as needed. In some embodiments, one or more pumps are configured to pump liquid into and / or out of the container 1140 / 140.

[0123] In some embodiments, the system includes two or more groups of modules, with the support frame 170 of each group rotating in a different direction. Thus, for one group, fluid filling the containers causes the support frame 170 to tilt in a first direction, and for a second group, fluid filling the containers causes the support frame 170 to tilt in a second direction. In some embodiments, the containers are in fluid communication such that the fluid that empties from one group of containers is the same fluid that is used to fill the second group of containers.

[0124] In some embodiments, different portions of the system are in fluid communication such that communicating containers have the same level of fluid as one another, hi some embodiments, the portions in fluid communication are one or more rows of containers in the system, portions of rows of containers in the system, and one or more patterns of containers in the system.

[0125] In some embodiments, the system includes one or more additional liquid sources in fluid communication with one or more of the containers. In some embodiments, the additional liquid source may flow liquid to the one or more containers at a uniform rate. In some embodiments, the additional liquid source is configured to regulate the flow rate of the multiple containers of the system. In some embodiments, the additional liquid source is configured to regulate the flow rate of the multiple containers of the system such that the frames of the panels tilt at the same angle and / or at the same rate.

[0126] Tilt mechanism Reference is now made to Figures 11A, 11B, and 11C, which illustrate a system with a floating solar panel module, according to some embodiments of the present invention.

[0127] In some embodiments, the angle of the support frame 1170 / 170 is adjusted according to the height of the container 1140 / 140 and in relation to the fluid level 1116 surrounding the base 1114 / 110 / 102. In some embodiments, the height of the container 1140 / 140 is adjustable by changing one or more of the range of motion of the container 1140 / 140 on the vertical axis, the range of rotational motion of the support frame 1170 / 170, the friction level of the tilt mechanism, the volume of the container 1140 / 140, the weight of the container 1140 / 140, and the circumference of the container as a function of the axial length of the container 1140 / 140.

[0128] In some embodiments, the support frame 1170 / 170 is coupled to the container via one or more cables 1102 / 1104. In some embodiments, the support frame 1170 / 170 is attached to the container 1140 by a hinge using one or more cables 1102 / 1104. In some embodiments, the base 1114 / 110 / 102 and / or the container 1140 / 140 are coupled to the base frame 1120. In some embodiments, the base frame 1120 is coupled to the support frame 1170 / 170 via the base 1114 / 110 / 102.

[0129] In some embodiments, the base frame 1120 is configured to balance the movement of the support frame 1170 / 170. In some embodiments, the base frame 1120 is parallel to the support frame 1170 / 170. In some embodiments, the base frame 1120 comprises a rod 1126 coupled to the base 1114 / 110 / 102. In some embodiments, the base frame 1120 comprises a movable portion 1128 coupled to the rod 1126 and / or the base 1114 / 110 / 102 by one or more hinges 1124. In some embodiments, the movable portion 1128 rotates about the hinge 1124.

[0130] In some embodiments, one or more cables 1104 extend from two or more ends of the container 1140 / 140 such that a portion 1104-1 of one cable is coupled to the container 1140 / 140 at one end and to the base frame 1120 at a second end of the cable portion 1104-1. In some embodiments, one or more cables 1104 extend from two or more ends of the container 1140 / 140 such that a portion 1104-2 of one cable is coupled to the container 1140 / 140 at one end and to the frame 1170 / 170 at a second end of the cable portion 1104-2.

[0131] In some embodiments, tension in the cables 1102 / 1104 occurs when the container is mechanically unbalanced, for example when the buoyancy of the container 1140 / 140 is unbalanced with the gravity of the container 1140 / 140 and the fluid therein. In some embodiments, during the mechanically unbalanced condition, the container 1140 / 140 will move vertically, at least in part, corresponding to the movement of the module 1100 / 110 / 100, until the forces acting on the container 1140 / 140 reach equilibrium. In some embodiments, the forces acting on the container comprise one or more of forces extracted by the movement of the base 1114 / 110 / 102, gravity and buoyancy, and external forces such as those generated by air currents. In some embodiments, the fluid in the container 1140 / 140 pushes down on the container 1140 / 140. In some embodiments, the weight of the fluid in the container 1140 / 140 balances the buoyancy of the container 1140 / 140.

[0132] In some embodiments, the balance of forces acting on the container can be controlled by controlling the rate at which liquid enters and / or leaves the container. In some embodiments, adding or removing liquid from the container increases or decreases the force required to balance the container and / or the module 1100 / 110 / 100. Thus, in some embodiments, controlling the amount of liquid entering and / or leaving the container controls the angle of the support frame 1170 / 170 of the module 1100 / 110 / 100.

[0133] In some embodiments, the movement of the container is correlated to the cross-sectional area of ​​the container across the fluid level 1116. In some embodiments, as shown in Figures 11A-11C, the container 1140 / 140 comprises a conical shape configured such that the amount of liquid required to fill each level 1118 across the length of the container 1140 / 140 is not the same. In some embodiments, the amount of liquid required to fill the length of the container 1140 / 140 increases from one end of the container 1140 / 140 to the other. In some embodiments, the amount of liquid required to fill the length of the container 1140 / 140 increases from a first end of the container to the middle of the container and then begins to decrease to a second end of the container 1140 / 140.

[0134] In some embodiments, the vertical movement of the container corresponds to a rate of change of the liquid volume in the container. In some embodiments, the rate of vertical movement of the container from a first position 1 to a second position 2 can be expressed as a function of the flow rate into and out of the container and / or the volume change of the liquid in the container, for example, as shown by the following equation:

number

[0135] where ΔZ comprises the difference in height of the container between the first location point 1 and the second location point 2, ΔV comprises the difference in the amount of fluid in the container between the first location point 1 and the second location point 2, FlowRate comprises the rate of flow of fluid into and / or out of the container, and v v comprises the speed of movement of the container measured in cm / sec. In some embodiments, the above formula is simplified to include v due to the change in weight of the container caused by the change in height of the container relative to the fluid level 1116. v does not include the impact on

[0136] In some embodiments, the vertical movement velocity v of the container from the first location point 1 to the second location point 2 vis a function of the weight of the container changing between point 1 and point 2. In some embodiments, the vertical movement of the container from the first position point 1 to the second position point 2 is a function of the volume change of the liquid in the container. In some embodiments, the function of the liquid volume change in the container is non-linear. In some embodiments, it is appropriate to measure the weight of the container in and out of the water at both position points 1 and 2 and integrate both measurements in the vertical velocity calculation. The difference in weight corresponds to at least the portion of the interior chamber of the container below the fluid level 1116 remaining hollow at each of position points 1 and 2. In some embodiments, the portion of the container below the fluid level 1116 that is not filled with liquid, which is required to maintain balance of the buoyancy versus weight forces, changes in the same container moving from point 1 to point 2 or vice versa. In such a movement, the difference in magnitude between the gravity and buoyancy forces is balanced by the volume of the liquid in the container, which may increase or decrease to achieve balance. Thus, along with the volume change of the liquid in the container, the container moves vertically under the applied force and / or due to the liquid volume change in the container. In some embodiments, the calculation of such a moving velocity therefore depends, at least in part, on the change in the liquid volume within the container 1140 / 140. In some embodiments, the vertical moving velocity v, which takes into account the changing weights of non-identical parts of the container, e.g., parts above and below the fluid level 1116, is calculated as v is expressed by the following formula:

number

[0137] where M1, M2 are the masses of the portions of the container above the fluid level 1116 at the first location point 1 and the second location point 2, and ρw is the density of the fluid.

[0138] In some embodiments, the angular velocity is derived from the vertical velocity and the length between the axis of rotation and the point at which the force is applied by the vertical motion.

number

[0139] In some embodiments, the amount of force required to change the position of the support frame 1170 / 170 is derived from internal forces acting within the module 1100 / 110 / 100 and external forces applied to the module 1100 / 110 / 100.

[0140] In some embodiments, the internal forces include friction between interacting parts of the module 1100 / 100 and forces caused by the position of the center of gravity of the frame 1170 / 170 relative to its axis of rotation. In some embodiments, if the center of gravity is placed above its axis of rotation, the support frame 1170 / 170 may tilt and tip over onto the side of the module 1100 / 110 / 100. In some embodiments, for larger angles, the force to tip the support frame 1170 / 170 may increase. In some embodiments, if the center of gravity is placed below its axis of rotation and no other forces are applied to it, the support frame 1170 / 170 will tilt to reach a horizontal state.

[0141] In some embodiments, the external forces applied to the module 1100 / 110 / 100 include wind forces applied primarily to the support frame 1170 / 170. In some embodiments, the external forces exerted on the module 1100 / 110 / 100 include dynamic weight additions to the system, such as maintenance personnel, animals such as birds resting on the module 1100 / 110 / 100, precipitants, and water-spraying forces applied to the module 1100 / 110 / 100 by waves.

[0142] In some embodiments, to control and / or monitor the movement of the module 1100 / 110 / 100 and / or the support frame 1170 / 170, the module 1100 / 100 is structured such that the moment, i.e., the force of the container multiplied by the length of the shaft relative to the pivot point 1112 / 172a / 172b of the axis of rotation (e.g., the length L of the support frame 1170 / 170 shown in FIG. 11A), is greater than the sum of the external and internal forces acting on the module 1100 / 110 / 100 and / or the support frame 1170 / 170. In some embodiments, the same process can be calculated for the case where the movement of the module 1100 / 110 / 100 is controlled by multiple gear types. In some embodiments, multiple gear types are configured to convert the vertical movement of the container into the angular movement of the support frame 1170 / 170.

[0143] In some embodiments, the containers 1140 / 140 and / or the buoyancy of the containers 1140 / 140 and / or the weight of the water within the containers 1140 / 140 can be used to counteract the rotational forces exerted on the support frame 1170 / 170. In some embodiments, the main external rotational force is exerted on the support frame 1170 / 170 by the wind. In some embodiments, the containers 1140 / 140 are connected to the support frame 1170 / 170 via one or more cables and / or rods, such that external forces exerted on the support frame 1170 / 170 are exerted on the containers 1140 / 140 and are counteracted by the buoyancy or weight of the containers 1140 / 140, thereby preventing excessive movement of the support frame 1170 / 170.

[0144] In some embodiments, the buoyancy of the container 1140 / 140 and / or the gravity of the container change according to changes in wind strength and / or direction to maintain force balance. These force changes directly counteract the rotational forces exerted by the wind on the frame 1170 / 170 without rotational stress being exerted on the pivot point 1112 / 172a / 172b. In some embodiments, the position of the module 1100 / 110 / 100 is adjusted to counteract the effect of changing wind speeds such that the module 1100 / 110 / 100 is mechanically balanced at a desired angle of the frame 1170 / 170, and the rotational reaction force (e.g., to distinguish from linear forces acting on the module) does not press against another position of the module 1100 / 110 / 100, e.g., the pivot point 1112 / 172a / 172b.

[0145] In some embodiments, wind forces cause undesired movement of the support frame 1170 / 170. In some embodiments, wind forces cause the support frame 1170 / 170 to move such that the support frame 1170 / 170 is not at the desired angle. In such a case, the container 1140 / 140 coupled to the support frame 1170 / 170 moves vertically relative to the water level 1116, which results in an imbalance of the buoyancy and weight forces, resulting in dynamic forces in the opposite direction to the undesired movement. In some embodiments, the magnitude of these dynamic buoyancy and weight forces corresponds to the change in the angle of the support frame 1170 / 170 from its desired position. For example, with respect to a force that causes an increase in the angle of the support frame 1170 / 170 relative to the desired position, thereby pushing the container 1140 / 140 down into the water, the opposing buoyancy force of the container increases in magnitude to the same extent that the frame 1170 / 170 is pushed out of its desired position. In some embodiments, such dynamic damping forces push the frame 1170 / 170 back to equilibrium at a desired position.

[0146] In some embodiments, the cross-section of the container 1140 / 140 that is parallel to the fluid level 1116 on which the container 1140 / 140 floats defines the magnitude of buoyancy and weight forces acting to maintain balance in a desired position. In some embodiments, the shape of the container 1140 / 140 is structured such that it varies along the extent to which the cross-section of the container 1140 / 140 moves vertically. In some embodiments, the container 1140 / 140 is structured such that the cross-sectional area of ​​the container 1140 / 140 is sufficient for the buoyancy and weight to counteract wind forces.

[0147] In some embodiments, the cross-sectional area of ​​each container 1140 / 140 is adjusted depending on the desired vertical range of motion of some embodiments of the present invention. For example, in the diagram shown in Figure 11B, the magnitude of the buoyancy and weight forces generated at each repeating section of the vertical range of motion (e.g., 1 cm) is greatest in the middle of the vertical range of motion while the support frame 1170 / 170 is horizontal and / or parallel to the fluid level 1116.

[0148] In some embodiments, the module includes a mechanism for damping additional, undesired forces in addition to the damping forces achieved by the container 1140 / 140. In some embodiments, the module includes a force damping mechanism. For example, in some embodiments, the mechanism includes one or more of an additional bucket, bag, or container.

[0149] 11C, the module 1150 / 1100 / 110 / 100 includes one or more additional containers 1108. In some embodiments, the one or more additional containers 1108 are coupled to the support frame 1170 / 170 at one or more ends thereof. In some embodiments, the one or more additional containers 1108 are coupled to the support frame 1170 / 170 via one or more cables 1122.

[0150] In some embodiments, the additional container 1108 comprises an interior chamber configured to be filled with a fluid. In some embodiments, the additional container 1108 comprises one or more openings 1110 configured to provide fluid communication between the interior chamber of the additional container 1108 and the body of water. In some embodiments, The flow of fluid into and out of the container 1108 is determined by the size of the device 1110. In some embodiments, the desired speed of the frame 1170 / 170 moves the container 1108 vertically upwards or downwards, causing water from the body of water to flow into or out of the container at a particular speed depending on the cross-section of the container 1108 at the water level 1116. In some embodiments, the device 1110 is sized to allow unrestricted water flow caused by the desired, usually slow, speed of the frame 1170 / 170.

[0151] In some embodiments, an external force acting on the module 1150 / 1100 / 110 / 100 pushes the frame 1170 / 170 away from its desired position at a speed faster than desired. In some embodiments, for such undesired speeds, due to the inhibited flow allowed through the device 1110, the flow of fluid into and / or out of the additional container 1108 through one or more openings 1110 is insufficient to maintain equilibrium. Thus, either an accumulation of water in the container 1108 above the water level 1116, or an empty portion of fluid in the container 1108 below the water level 1116, is generated. In either case, the buoyancy or weight force generated is in the opposite direction to the undesired motion and can be used as an additional damping force. In some embodiments, the magnitude of the damping force generated by the container 1108, as well as the undesired motion of the container 1140 / 140 and the opposing forces generated by them, the weight force and the buoyancy force, increases the higher the undesired planar speed. Thereby, in some embodiments, if the angle of the position of the support frame 1170 / 170 relative to the desired position of the support frame 1170 / 170 increases at an undesired higher speed, the opposing force exerted on the module 1150 / 1100 / 110 / 100 by the additional containers 1108 increases at the same time. In some embodiments, for example, having containers 1108 on both sides of the frame 1170 / 170 as shown in 11D allows for the utilization of only the additional weight generated at a higher than desired frame speed. The undesired speed countermeasure causes water in the containers 1108 on either side of the frame to accumulate above the water level 1116, generating an equal damping force that pulls the frame back to the desired position via the cables 1122.

[0152] The description of various embodiments of the present invention has been presented for illustrative purposes, but is not intended to be exhaustive or limited to the disclosed embodiments. Many modifications and variations will be apparent to those skilled in the art without departing from the scope and spirit of the described embodiments. The terms used in this specification are selected to best explain the principles of the embodiments, practical applications, or technical improvements to the technology found in the market, or to allow persons other than those skilled in the art to understand the embodiments disclosed herein.

Claims

1. 1. A buoyancy module comprising: at least one base configured to be buoyantly supported within a body of water; at least one fluid-holding container sized and adapted to be connected to said at least one base and move in a vertical dimension relative to said at least one base; at least one mount coupled to the at least one base in a sealing engagement against the escape of liquids into an interior of the at least one base and configured to pivotally mount at least one solar panel thereon; a tilt mechanism configured to translate the movement of the at least one fluid-holding container in the vertical dimension into the pivotable movement of the at least one solar panel about a pivot point; Equipped with A buoyant module, wherein a vertical position of the at least one fluid-holding container relative to the base is determined, at least in part, by a fluid level within the at least one fluid-holding container.

2. 2. The buoyancy module of claim 1, wherein at least one of the following applies: (a) the at least one base defines a space therein, and the at least one fluid-holding container is sized and adapted to be received within the space; (b) the at least one base is a vessel, the space is an interior chamber of the vessel, and the vessel is a double-walled vessel including an outer wall and an inner wall, wherein a gap between the outer wall and the inner wall is configured to be at least partially filled with ballast comprising at least one selected from the group consisting of a liquid, a solid, and any combination thereof; and (c) any combination thereof.

3. 2. The buoyancy module of claim 1, wherein the at least one base comprises at least two hulls arranged at spaced apart positions, the hulls being rigidly interconnected to one another, the at least one fluid-holding container being disposed between the hulls, and further wherein the hulls comprise at least one selected from the group consisting of solid, at least partially hollow, completely hollow hulls, and any combination thereof.

4. A buoyancy module as described in any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein at least one of the following applies: (a) the at least one base is at least partially filled with ballast comprising at least one selected from the group consisting of liquids, solids, and any combination thereof; (b) the base is in fluid communication with the body of water; and (c) any combination thereof.

5. A buoyancy module as described in any one of claims 1 to 4, wherein the mount includes at least one opening sized and shaped to accommodate the at least one fluid-holding container and allow the movement in the vertical dimension.

6. 5. The buoyancy module of claim 4, wherein the tilting mechanism is configured to tilt the at least one solar panel 25° to 75° to either side of the horizontal in response to at least one selected from the group consisting of sun direction, wind, ambient conditions, seasonal changes, and any combination thereof, and further wherein the tilting mechanism is configured such that the center of gravity of the at least one solar panel is located below or above the pivot point.

7. The tilt mechanism comprises: (a) a cable and pulley tilt mechanism comprising: i) at least one first cable coupled to a top of the at least one fluid-holding container; and (ii) at least one second cable coupled to a bottom of the at least one fluid-holding container, the at least one first cable and the at least one second cable being coupled to the at least one solar panel at two opposite ends thereof, such that the vertical movement of the at least one fluid-holding container exerts a pulling force on at least one selected from the group consisting of at least one first cable, at least one second cable, and any combination thereof, resulting in a pivoting movement of the at least one solar panel; (b) a cable and pulley tilt mechanism comprising: i) at least one first cable coupled to a top of the at least one fluid-holding container; and (ii) at least one second cable coupled to a bottom of the at least one fluid-holding container, the at least one first cable and the at least one second cable being coupled to the at least one solar panel at two opposite ends thereof, such that the vertical movement of the at least one fluid-holding container exerts a pulling force on at least one selected from the group consisting of at least one first cable, at least one second cable, and any combination thereof, resulting in a pivoting movement of the at least one solar panel; 7. The buoyancy module of claim 6, comprising at least one mechanism selected from the group consisting of: (a) a rank-shaped tilt mechanism; (b) an arc-shaped slot tilt mechanism, comprising at least one support frame in communication with the at least one solar panel including one or more brackets having arc-shaped guide slots, the at least one fluid-holding container in communication with at least one guide pin fitted within the guide slots, such that the movement of the at least one fluid-holding container in the vertical dimension is translated into angular movement of the support frame and the at least one solar panel; (c) an arc-shaped slot tilt mechanism, comprising at least one support frame in communication with the at least one solar panel including one or more brackets having arc-shaped guide slots, the at least one fluid-holding container in communication with at least one guide pin fitted within the guide slots, such that the movement of the at least one fluid-holding container in the vertical dimension is translated into angular movement of the support frame and the at least one solar panel; (d) a parallelogram with a submerged symmetric frame; (e) a parallelogram with a submerged asymmetric frame and push / pull rods, and any combination thereof.

8. The buoyancy module further comprises a control unit in fluid communication with the at least one fluid holding container, the control unit configured to selectively adjust a fluid level in the at least one fluid holding container, and further comprising: (a) the buoyancy module further comprises at least one pipe connected between the control unit and the at least one fluid holding container; (b) the control unit further comprises at least one pump configured to pump the fluid through the at least one pipe and into and / or out of the at least one fluid holding container; and (c) the control unit further comprises at least one pump configured to pump the fluid through the at least one pipe and into and / or out of the at least one fluid holding container based at least in part on the position of the sun on the ecliptic relative to the geographic location of the buoyancy module.

7. The buoyancy module of claim 1, wherein at least one of the following applies: (a) the buoyancy module is configured to adjust the fluid level in one fluid holding container at the same time; (d) the buoyancy module further comprises at least one pipe, the pipe being attached to a bottom of the at least one fluid holding container and having at least one flexible portion so as not to impede the movement of the at least one fluid holding container in the vertical dimension; (e) the buoyancy module further comprises at least one pump in a closed fluid filling / draining system, whereby fluid may be transferred from the at least one fluid holding container to another fluid holding container; and (f) any combination thereof.

9. 1. A system comprising: a plurality of buoyancy modules, each buoyancy module from the plurality of buoyancy modules at least one base configured to be buoyantly supported within a body of water; and at least one fluid-holding container sized to be connected to the at least one base and adapted to move in a vertical dimension relative to the at least one base, wherein a vertical position of the at least one fluid-holding container relative to the at least one base is based, at least in part, on a fluid level within the at least one fluid-holding container; at least one mount coupled to the at least one base in a sealing engagement against the escape of liquids into an interior of the at least one base and configured to pivotally mount at least one solar panel thereon; a tilt mechanism configured to translate the movement of the at least one fluid-holding container in the vertical dimension into the pivotable movement of the at least one solar panel about a pivot point; the plurality of buoyancy modules comprising: a framework including frame members configured to rigidly interconnect at least two of the bases of at least one buoyant module from the plurality of buoyant modules in a designated arrangement; a control unit in fluid communication with each of the at least one fluid-holding containers, the control unit configured to selectively adjust a fluid level within the at least one fluid-holding container.

10. The system of claim 9 , wherein the plurality of buoyancy modules are arranged in a grid array field comprising at least one row and at least one column.

11. 11. The system of claim 9 or 10, wherein at least one of the following applies: (a) the at least one base defines a space therein, and the at least one fluid-holding container is sized and adapted to be received within the space; (b) the at least one base is a vessel, the space is an interior chamber of the vessel, and the vessel is a double-walled vessel including an outer wall and an inner wall, wherein a gap between the outer wall and the inner wall is configured to be at least partially filled with a ballast comprising at least one selected from the group consisting of a liquid, a solid, and any combination thereof; and (c) any combination thereof.

12. 12. The system of claim 11, wherein the at least one base comprises at least two hulls disposed at spaced apart locations, the hulls being rigidly interconnected to one another, the space being disposed between the hulls, and further wherein the hulls comprise at least one selected from the group consisting of solid, at least partially hollow, completely hollow hulls, and any combination thereof.

13. 13. The system of any one of claims 9-12, wherein at least one of the following applies: (a) a base is at least partially filled with ballast comprising at least one selected from the group consisting of a liquid, a solid, and any combination thereof; (b) the base is in fluid communication with the body of water; and (c) any combination thereof.

14. 14. The system of claim 9, wherein the at least one solar panel is tiltable about the pivot point relative to the mount, the mount including at least one opening sized and shaped to accommodate the at least one fluid-holding container and to allow the movement in the vertical dimension.

15. 10. The system of claim 9, wherein the at least one base is configured such that the tilt mechanism tilts the at least one solar panel 25° to 75° to either side of the horizontal, and further wherein the tilt mechanism is configured such that the center of gravity of the at least one solar panel is located below or above the pivot point.

16. The tilt mechanism comprises: (a) a cable and pulley tilt mechanism comprising: i) at least one first cable coupled to a top of the at least one fluid-holding container; and (ii) at least one second cable coupled to a bottom of the at least one fluid-holding container, the at least one first cable and the at least one second cable being coupled to the at least one solar panel at two opposite ends thereof, such that the vertical movement of the at least one fluid-holding container exerts a pulling force on at least one selected from the group consisting of at least one first cable, at least one second cable, and any combination thereof, resulting in a pivoting movement of the at least one solar panel; (b) a cable and pulley tilt mechanism comprising: i) at least one first cable coupled to a top of the at least one fluid-holding container; and (ii) at least one second cable coupled to a bottom of the at least one fluid-holding container, the at least one first cable and the at least one second cable being coupled to the at least one solar panel at two opposite ends thereof, such that the vertical movement of the at least one fluid-holding container exerts a pulling force on at least one selected from the group consisting of at least one first cable, at least one second cable, and any combination thereof, resulting in a pivoting movement of the at least one solar panel; 16. The system of claim 15, comprising at least one mechanism selected from the group consisting of: (a) a rank-shaped tilt mechanism; (b) an arc-shaped slot tilt mechanism, comprising at least one support frame in communication with the at least one solar panel including one or more brackets having arc-shaped guide slots, the at least one fluid-holding container in communication with at least one guide pin fitted within the guide slots, such that the movement of the at least one fluid-holding container in the vertical dimension is translated into angular movement of the support frame and the at least one solar panel; (c) an arc-shaped slot tilt mechanism, comprising at least one support frame in communication with the at least one solar panel including one or more brackets having arc-shaped guide slots, the at least one fluid-holding container in communication with at least one guide pin fitted within the guide slots, such that the movement of the at least one fluid-holding container in the vertical dimension is translated into angular movement of the support frame and the at least one solar panel; (d) a parallelogram with an underwater symmetric frame; (e) a parallelogram with an underwater asymmetric frame and push / pull rods, and any combination thereof.

17. The buoyancy module further comprises a control unit in fluid communication with the at least one fluid holding container, the control unit configured to selectively adjust a fluid level within the at least one fluid holding container, and further comprising: (a) the buoyancy module further comprises at least one pipe connected between the control unit and the at least one fluid holding container; (b) the control unit further comprises at least one pump configured to pump the fluid through the at least one pipe and into and / or out of the at least one fluid holding container; and (c) the control unit further comprises a geographic location of the buoyancy module.

17. The system of claim 9, wherein at least one of the following applies: (a) the buoyancy module is configured to adjust the fluid level in the at least one fluid holding container based at least in part on the position of the sun on the ecliptic relative to the buoyancy module; (d) the buoyancy module further comprises at least one pipe, the pipe attached to a bottom of the at least one fluid holding container; (e) the buoyancy module further comprises at least one pump in a closed fluid filling / draining system, wherein fluid can be transferred from the at least one fluid holding container to another fluid holding container; and (f) any combination thereof.

18. 15. The system of claim 14, wherein at least one of the following applies: (a) the at least one solar panel is further configured to tilt in unison; (b) the framework further comprises one or more lines configured to moor the system; (c) the one or more lines are further configured to facilitate adjustment of an azimuth angle of the system; (d) the system further comprises at least one pump in a closed fluid fill / drain system, wherein fluid may be transferred from the at least one fluid holding container to another fluid holding container; and (e) any combination thereof.

19. 10. The system of claim 9, further comprising: (a) at least one line extending outward from the framework to at least one selected from the group consisting of a fixed point on shore, a mooring buoy, a mooring and anchoring system, and any combination thereof; (b) at least one horizontal "yo-yo" like mooring and anchoring arrangement comprising two or more lines wrapped around the framework in opposite directions to facilitate rotational positioning of the framework, wherein when a rotational force is applied to the framework, at least one of the two or more lines is slackened while a second line is placed under tension; and (c) any combination thereof.

20. a vertical velocity v of the at least one fluid-holding container, taking into account the changing weight of the at least one fluid-holding container; ｖ But the following formula: is represented by M １ , M. ２ 10. The system of claim 9, wherein ρw is the mass of a portion of the at least one fluid-holding container above a fluid level at a first location point 1 and a second location point 2, and ρw is the density of the fluid.

21. 10. The system of claim 9, further comprising at least one force-damping mechanism including at least one additional container coupled to the framework, the at least one additional container including one or more openings configured to provide fluid communication between the at least one additional container and a body of water.

22. 1. A method comprising: (a) providing a system according to any one of claims 9 to 21; (b) rigidly interconnecting at least two bases of said at least one buoyancy module in a designated arrangement; (c) fluidly connecting a control unit to the at least one fluid-holding container, the control unit being configured to selectively adjust a fluid level in the at least one fluid-holding container; (d) deploying the system in a body of water.

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