Distributor unit for solar collectors

Abstract

The invention relates to a distributor unit (54) for a tracked solar installation, the distributor unit (54) comprising at least one first line section (11a) having a first rotating block (1, 1a) and at least one second line section (11b) having a second rotating block (1b), wherein the first line section (11a) is rotatably connected to the first rotating block (1a) and wherein the second line section (11b) is rotatably connected to the second rotating block (1b), wherein a first transfer unit (45a) having a first connection piece (46a) for connecting to a line for cleaning liquid (9) of a base element, in particular of a stand (42), of the solar installation is provided on the first rotating block (1a), and a second transfer unit (45b) having a second connection piece (46b) for connecting to a line for cleaning liquid (9) of a first supporting arm (43) of the solar installation is provided on the second rotating block (1b), wherein the second transfer unit (45b) is connected to the first transfer unit (45a) via at least one first pipe connection (47a) running outside the first line section (11a) and outside the second line section (11b).

Description

DISTRIBUTION UNIT FOR SOLAR COLLECTORS Field of the invention

[0001] The present invention relates to a distribution unit for a tracking solar system, the distribution unit comprising at least one first line section with a first rotating block, which first rotating block is used to establish a (fluidic) connection between the first line section and a base element, in particular a stand, of the solar system, in particular heat pipes (supply and return orSteam and condensate line) from the upright, and at least one second line section with a second rotating block, which second rotating block is designed to produce a (fluidic) connection between the second line section and a first support arm of the solar system, in particular heat pipes from the first support arm, wherein the first line section is rotatably connected to the first rotating block and is preferably mounted axially movably in the first rotating block, and wherein the second line section is rotatably connected to the second rotating block and is preferably mounted axially movably in the second rotating block. State of the art

[0002] Distribution units for (dual-axis) tracking solar systems, such as those with solar thermal collectors, PV collectors, or hybrid collectors that produce both electricity and heat, are generally well known. A common problem with such solar systems is routing the heating medium and the electrical system via the dual-axis tracking system. This becomes particularly difficult when additional lines for a cleaning fluid are required. Flexible cables and hoses have very little space, and the entire system becomes very complex. These should therefore be avoided to ensure a reliable, low-maintenance, and cost-effective solar system. The costs of flexible cables and hoses, including the connecting devices, are very high. Another key reason to avoid flexible cables and hoses is that the installation effort for all the hoses and cables during the installation of a collector system is also very costly. Description of the invention

[0003] The present invention therefore aims to solve the problems described above. One object of the invention is to convey cleaning fluid from the base element, in particular the upright, of the solar system to the support arms to enable cleaning of the collectors mounted on the support arms. Further objects will become apparent from the description, the claims, and the figures.

[0004] One object of the invention is achieved by a distribution unit for a tracking solar system, the distribution unit comprising at least one first line section with a first rotating block, which first rotating block is designed to establish a (fluidic) connection between the first line section and a base element, in particular a post, of the solar system, and at least one second line section with a second rotating block, which second rotating block is designed to establish a (fluidic) connection between the second line section and a first support arm of the solar system, wherein the first line section is rotatably connected to the first rotating block and is preferably mounted axially movably in the first rotating block, and wherein the second line section is rotatably connected to the second rotating block and is preferably mounted axially movably in the second rotating block.

[0005] If the variant with two rotating blocks is used, an inner cable run can be angled or curved and encompass the first and second cable sections. The positioning of the inner cable run relative to a gear block or gear unit of the solar system can be achieved by suspension in the two rotating blocks, each with two degrees of freedom (axial displacement and rotation possible), and by point suspension of the cable run, if possible at the intersection of both rotation axes (rotation axes of the two-axis tracking system). It should be noted that pressures of up to 30 bar can occur, so considerable displacement forces can occur. At approximately 5 cm 2 For example, the cross-sectional area of the outer cable has an extension force of 150 kg.

[0006] If the preferred variant with three rotating blocks is used (in solar systems with two support arms), a floating mounting of the inner cable section is possible, which can include the first, second, and third cable sections. The floating mounting ensures that the geometric position relative to the gear block or gear unit remains unchanged (no rotation or displacement is possible), although in the individual mountings of the Rotating blocks provide the aforementioned degrees of freedom. The axial degree of freedom allows for thermal expansion and is particularly advantageous at temperatures above 200°C. In a T-shaped section or pipe string, the axial forces compensate for each other horizontally. The special ingenuity of the pipe-in-pipe system is that not only the outer pipe or an outer pipe unit, but also the inner pipe or an inner pipe unit of the pipe string can be mounted on the respective rotating block in a rotatable and, preferably, axially displaceable (floating) manner.

[0007] According to the invention, a first transfer unit with a first connecting piece for connection to a line for cleaning fluid of the base element, in particular of the upright, is provided on the first rotating block, and a second transfer unit with a second connecting piece for connection to a line for cleaning fluid of the first support arm is provided on the second rotating block, wherein the second transfer unit is connected (fluidically) to the first transfer unit via at least one first pipe connection running outside the first line section and outside the second line section.

[0008] The respective transfer unit, which can also be referred to or designed as a high-pressure distribution element or line sleeve, can have an outer body and an inner body, whereby the outer body and inner body can be rotated relative to or against each other. In the assembled state, an annular channel, a channel section, or an overlap from a bore in the outer body to a bore in the inner body can form between the outer and inner bodies, thus enabling fluid flow. The variant with the bores allows these to overlap only in a specific position of the collector system (specified horizontal and vertical angular axis), thus opening the fluid circuit in a controlled manner - otherwise a blockage occurs. In the variant with three transfer units, one of the outer bodies can have two bores - one towards each other transfer element or outer body.Here, an annular overflow channel (enveloping or sectioned) can be provided either on the inner body or on the outer body of the transfer element, which has two bores, to enable fluid flow between the two bores on the outer body. Sealing to the outside is usually achieved at an annular gap using two radial seals outside the fluid flow zone (quadring, O-ring). It is conceivable to leave no annular gap and to manufacture the outer body from plastic, which seals directly to the inner body through a slight press fit (the inner body must be able to be inserted during assembly). It is also conceivable to manufacture the outer body. and / or to provide the inner body with a sealing coating on the sealing surfaces.

[0009] The two line sections (first line section, second line section) can be formed by an angular and / or curved inner line section. The division into a first line section and a second line section can refer to an angular inner line section, which can simply be made from separate pieces. For clarity, the one upright-side and the two support-arm-side sections of the line section can be referred to as the first, second, and third line sections. To prevent a wobbly structure (a technical term in statics), in addition to the bearings in the rotating blocks (first rotating block, second rotating block), the line sections or the line section can be suspended near an intersection point of the two axes of rotation of a two-axis tracking system.As explained below, there are preferred embodiments with three rotating blocks; in this case, a third line section of the line string can be rotatably connected to the third rotating block and preferably floatingly mounted in the third rotating block. One task of the inner line string can be to distribute the flow in the forward and return lines, preferably into two partial flows each. The inner line string is preferably a pipe-in-pipe system in a T-shaped design. In this case, it is now possible to mount both the inner and the outer pipe unit of the pipe-in-pipe system (both pipe units can each be designed as a T-piece) rotatably and preferably floatingly in the three rotating blocks. In this case, no (additional) suspension is required.

[0010] According to a preferred embodiment of the distribution unit, it is provided that the distribution unit has a third line section with a third rotating block, which third rotating block is designed to establish a (fluidic) connection between the third line section and a second support arm of the solar system, wherein the third line section is rotatably connected to the third rotating block and is preferably mounted axially movably in the third rotating block, wherein a third transfer unit with a third connection piece for connection to a line for cleaning fluid of the second support arm is provided on the third rotating block, and wherein the third transfer unit is (fluidically) connected to the first transfer unit via at least one second pipe connection running outside the first line section, the second line section, and outside the third line section.

[0011] The fluidically connected sections of the transfer units, in particular the outer bodies of the transfer units, can form a (one-piece) unit, which can also be referred to as a float. From a manufacturing perspective, a welded construction with annular outer bodies that are mechanically and fluidically connected via pipe sockets is recommended for the float. It is also conceivable to use cast parts with mechanical machining. Regardless of whether two or three outer rings are provided, a floating bearing on the inner bodies is possible (in both variants). The variant with two transfer units or outer bodies or rings results in a wobbly construction; however, a floating bearing is still possible because there are no displacement forces. The floating bearing is an elegant solution that eliminates any additional suspension and takes up as little space as possible.

[0012] According to a preferred embodiment of the distributor unit, it is provided that the first transfer unit, the second transfer unit and / or the third transfer unit each comprise an outer body, which outer body is preferably designed as an outer ring, and an inner body that is rotatable or rotatable relative to the outer body or the outer ring.

[0013] According to a preferred embodiment of the distribution unit, it is provided that the first transfer unit, in particular the inner body of the first transfer unit, is connected to the first rotary block in a rotationally fixed or rigid manner, the second transfer unit, in particular the inner body of the second transfer unit, is connected to the second rotary block in a rotationally fixed or rigid manner, and / or the third transfer unit, in particular the inner body of the third transfer unit, is connected to the third rotary block in a rotationally fixed or rigid manner.

[0014] According to a preferred embodiment of the distributor unit, it is provided that the inner body, in particular the inner body of the first transfer unit, the inner body of the second transfer unit, and / or the inner body of the third transfer unit, has an outer surface which is at least partially cylindrical in shape, on which outer surface a first bore opens which is (fluidically) connected to the connection piece of the respective transfer unit.

[0015] According to a preferred embodiment of the distributor unit, it is provided that the connecting piece from the inner body of the respective transfer unit, in particular the first connecting piece from the inner body of the first transfer unit, the second connecting piece from the inner body of the second transfer unit, and / or the third connecting piece from the inner body of the third transfer unit, in particular from an end face of the respective inner body, preferably arranged orthogonally to the cylindrical outer surface.

[0016] According to a preferred embodiment of the distribution unit, it is provided that the first pipe connection extends between the outer body or the outer ring of the first transfer unit and the outer body or the outer ring of the second transfer unit.

[0017] According to a preferred embodiment of the distribution unit, it is provided that the second pipe connection extends between the outer body or the outer ring of the first transfer unit and the outer body or the outer ring of the third transfer unit.

[0018] According to a preferred embodiment of the distributor unit, it is provided that the outer body or the outer ring, in particular the outer body or the outer ring of the first transfer unit, the outer body or the outer ring of the second transfer unit, and / or the outer body or the outer ring of the third transfer unit, has an inner surface that is at least partially cylindrical.

[0019] According to a preferred embodiment of the distributor unit, it is provided that a second bore is provided on the inner surface of the first transfer unit, in particular the outer body or the outer ring of the first transfer unit, and on the inner surface of the second transfer unit, in particular the outer body or the outer ring of the second transfer unit, wherein the second bore on the inner surface of the first transfer unit is (fluidically) connected to the second bore on the inner surface of the second transfer unit via the first pipe connection.

[0020] According to a preferred embodiment of the distributor unit, it is provided that a second bore is provided on the inner surface of the third transfer unit, in particular the outer body or the outer ring of the third transfer unit, and a further second bore is provided on the inner surface of the first transfer unit, in particular the outer body or the outer ring of the first transfer unit, wherein the further second bore on the inner surface of the first transfer unit is (fluidically) connected to the second bore on the inner surface of the third transfer unit via the second pipe connection.

[0021] According to a preferred embodiment of the distributor unit, the inner surface of the first outer body or the outer body of the first Transfer unit has a bore leading to an inner surface of the second outer body or the outer body of the second transfer unit. This bore can form a fluidic connection in a high-pressure distribution unit with a fluidic inlet and a fluidic outlet. This bore can open into an outlet on the inner surface of a second outer body or the outer body of the second transfer unit.

[0022] According to a preferred embodiment of the distributor unit, the inner surface of the first outer body has two bores leading to the inner surfaces of a second and a third outer body. These bores form a fluidic connection in a high-pressure distributor unit with a fluidic inlet and two fluidic outlets. These bores each open into an outlet on the inner surfaces of a second and a third outer body.

[0023] In a float variant with a first and a second outer body, these parts can be identical. In a float variant with a first, a second, and a third outer body, the first outer body has two holes, while the second and third outer bodies each have one hole—therefore, there are no identical parts.

[0024] According to a preferred embodiment of the distributor unit, it is provided that two sealing elements are provided on the outer surface, in particular on the outer surface of the inner body of the first transfer unit, the outer surface of the inner body of the second transfer unit, and / or the outer surface of the inner body of the third transfer unit, which sealing elements are preferably arranged circumferentially on both sides of the first bore of the outer surface.

[0025] According to a preferred embodiment of the distributor unit, it is provided that a first section of the outer surface, in particular a first section of the outer surface of the inner body of the first transfer unit, a first section of the outer surface of the inner body of the second transfer unit, and / or a first section of the outer surface of the inner body of the third transfer unit, in which first section the first bore is arranged, is offset inwards, in particular radially, relative to a second section of the outer surface, in particular a second section of the outer surface of the inner body of the first transfer unit, a second section of the outer surface of the inner body of the second transfer unit, and / or a second section of the outer surface of the inner body of the third transfer unit, in which second section the sealing elements are arranged.

[0026] Thus, for example, a groove recess can be formed in the inner body so that when the outer body or the float is pushed over, a closed channel or channel section is formed.

[0027] According to a preferred embodiment of the distributor unit, it is provided that the sealing elements, preferably only the sealing elements, contact the inner surface, wherein in particular the sealing elements of the inner body of the first transfer unit contact the inner surface of the outer body or the outer ring of the first transfer unit, the sealing elements of the inner body of the second transfer unit contact the inner surface of the outer body or the outer ring of the second transfer unit, and / or the sealing elements of the inner body of the third transfer unit contact the inner surface of the outer body or the outer ring of the third transfer unit.

[0028] According to a preferred embodiment of the distributor unit, it is provided that the second bore and / or the further second bore is closed by the outer surface in at least one first rotational position of the inner body, wherein in particular the outer surface of the inner body of the second transfer unit closes the second bore of the outer body or of the outer ring of the second transfer unit in at least one first rotational position of the second rotary block, and / or the outer surface of the inner body of the third transfer unit closes the second bore of the outer body or of the outer ring of the third transfer unit in at least one first rotational position of the third rotary block.

[0029] According to a preferred embodiment of the distributor unit, it is provided that the second bore or the further second bore at least partially overlaps with the first bore in at least one second rotational position of the inner body, wherein in particular the second bore of the outer body or of the outer ring of the second transfer unit at least partially overlaps with the first bore of the inner body of the second transfer unit in at least one second rotational position of the second rotary block, and / or the second bore of the outer body or of the outer ring of the third transfer unit at least partially overlaps with the first bore of the inner body of the third transfer unit in at least one second rotational position of the third rotary block.

[0030] According to a preferred embodiment of the distribution unit, it is provided that the first transfer unit is formed integrally with the first rotary block, the second transfer unit is formed integrally with the second rotary block, and / or the third transfer unit is formed integrally with the third rotary block.

[0031] According to a preferred embodiment of the distribution unit, it is provided that the first transfer unit, the second transfer unit, and / or the third transfer unit is / are designed as a separate component.

[0032] According to a preferred embodiment of the distribution unit, it is provided that a slip ring body is provided on the first transfer unit, the second transfer unit and / or the third transfer unit for connecting electrical lines of the base element, in particular the post, the first support arm, and / or the second support arm, wherein the slip ring body comprises a plurality of slip rings spaced apart by insulating blocks, in particular (inner) slip rings for the operational power supply and / or (outer) slip rings for PV power.

[0033] According to a preferred embodiment of the distributor unit, it is provided that the outer body or the outer ring of the first transfer unit, the first pipe connection and the outer body or the outer ring of the second transfer unit, and preferably also the second pipe connection and the outer body or the outer ring of the third transfer unit, are formed integrally with one another.

[0034] One object of the invention is achieved by a distribution unit for solar systems in that rotary pistons are mounted on rotary blocks which support a pipe in a floating pipe system, which are inserted in a sealing manner into floating cylinder rings, also called floats, and thus form a channel for the passage of cleaning water.

[0035] According to a preferred embodiment of the distribution unit, it is provided that the rotary pistons and the float overlap bores when the holding arms are in a defined rotational position and thus release the channel for cleaning.

[0036] According to a preferred embodiment of the distribution unit, slip ring bodies with slip rings and insulating blocks are attached to the rotary pistons.

[0037] According to a preferred embodiment of the distribution unit, the slip rings have outputs with plug contacts.

[0038] According to a preferred embodiment of the distribution unit, it is provided that the connecting parts at the outlet of the support arms and the upright comprise a hydraulic system with a flow, return, sheathing pipe and a connecting pipe for cleaning, wherein the rigid connection to the support arms and the upright is effected via a clamping disc.

[0039] According to a preferred embodiment of the distribution unit, it is provided that a control module is installed, which leads plug contacts to the outside and is connected or attached to the plug contacts of the consumers.

[0040] According to a preferred embodiment of the distribution unit, it is provided that covers in the form of half-shells, which half-shells can be fixedly connected to the gear block, the gear unit or a gear body of the solar system, protect the electrical system.

[0041] According to a preferred embodiment of the distribution unit, it is provided that all parts of this unit or of the distribution unit are installed in the gear unit, the gear block or the gear body, in particular in a closed space of the gear unit, the gear block or the gear body.

[0042] According to a preferred embodiment of the distribution unit, a gearbox variant with two support bearings is used.

[0043] According to a preferred embodiment of the distribution unit, a gearbox variant with a second support bearing in the horizontal axis is used (although a free bearing would be the statically correct solution). This results in a particularly rigid connection. The particular advantage, however, is that an identical housing can be used from the rotary actuator (empty gearbox block with support bearing). This measure also automatically creates a connection periphery that is symmetrical to the vertical axis. This simplifies the connection to the distribution unit, which is also symmetrical to the vertical axis of rotation. Short description of the characters

[0044] The invention is described in more detail below using exemplary embodiments and, where appropriate, with reference to drawings. However, the following explanations are neither intended to exhaustively represent nor restrict the inventive concept.

[0045] The figures are schematic representations. They show Fig. 1 the holder of the rotating blocks, Fig. 2A, 2B a distribution unit with the rotary pistons, Fig. 3 a distribution unit with assembly of rotary piston and float, Fig. 4 is a front view of a distribution unit according to Fig. 3, Fig. 5 the T-piece-shaped pipe in pipe system with the float in the installation position, Fig. 6 a distribution unit with attachment of a module with four slip rings, Fig. 7A, 7B the structure of a slip ring body, Fig. 8 a distribution unit with complete hydraulic and electrical equipment, Fig. 9 the positioning of the distribution unit in the transmission unit, Fig. 10A, 10B, 10C all connecting parts at the output of the support arms and the upright, Fig. 11 a view of the gearbox with all connections in the installed state, Fig. 12A, 12B, 12C a gearbox variant with a loose bearing and a support bearing, Fig. 13A, 13B, 13C a gearbox variant with two support bearings, Fig. 14 the control module, Fig. 15 the structure of a collector system. Ways to implement the invention

[0046] The invention relates to a distribution unit for a solar system with solar thermal collectors, PV collectors, or hybrid collectors that produce both electricity and heat. At least one modular variant envisages a PV installation. In particular, it concerns a collector system that provides a gear unit for biaxial tracking (around a vertical axis and a horizontal axis), with a distribution unit (for the hydraulics and the electrical system) and a control module installed inside the gear unit (hermetically sealed). The gear unit can comprise two servomotors for tracking, which are powered via the control module. Furthermore, the collector system or a variant of this system can comprise two external gear units, each with an actuator (see Fig. 15), which can be supplied with electricity. A collector system can basically be imagined as follows:

[0047] There is a vertical upright, i.e. a base element. A gear unit is mounted on the upright, which has two flange connections for horizontally extending support arms (first support arm, second support arm). However, variants with just one support arm are also conceivable. At the ends of the support arms, there are flange receptacles for support modules, to which four collectors can be attached. These support modules can have an inner and an outer support body, each with flange receptacles for the connection of two collectors. The outer support body can be pivoted 180° via an electric drive. This allows the collectors, preferably mirror collectors, to close in pairs at the ends and thus assume a protective position.

[0048] One problem with such solar systems can be connecting all the hydraulic and electrical lines from the upright to the support arms. For this purpose, a distribution unit, such as the one subject of the invention, can be provided in the transmission unit. However, the installation of the solar system should be as simple and modular as possible. Flexible cables and hoses should be avoided. The installation and removal of the distribution unit should be possible without removing other components.

[0049] The following technical tasks may arise:

[0050] One task of the distribution unit is to guide the heat transfer medium in the flow and return flow across both rotation axes from the upright into the support arm, or in variants with two or more support arms, into the support arms themselves. For the sake of simplicity and without affecting the general public, a variant of a solar system with two support arms. The distribution unit branches the flow and return of the base element or the upright into two partial flows and distributes these partial flows to the first support arm and the second support arm.

[0051] A further task of the distribution unit is to direct cleaning fluid over both axes of rotation, to branch into two partial flows and to establish a connection to a pipe from the upright and the two pipes from the support arms in order to be able to use the cleaning fluid provided from the upright for (automatic) cleaning of the collectors.

[0052] Another task of the distribution unit is to supply the solar system, in particular the tracking unit or the gear unit, with power. For this purpose, the control module or a control unit, which can also be located inside the gear unit, must be supplied with operating power via a supply line from the stator.

[0053] Another task of the distribution unit is to route the electrical cables from the control module or control unit to the drives of the external gearboxes.

[0054] Another task of the distribution unit is to divert PV power via the two axes of rotation, i.e. from the essentially horizontal support arms via the essentially vertical upright.

[0055] For this purpose, rotating blocks of the distribution unit can form a fluid passage for forward and return flow, with a T-shaped pipe-in-pipe system carrying the heat transfer medium from the upright to the support arms and vice versa. The individual rotating blocks can be fixedly connected to the upright and the support arms, preferably via flange connections, while the T-shaped pipe-in-pipe system can be mounted floating above the rotating blocks.

[0056] Special precautions have been taken to ensure the flow of cleaning water. Pot-shaped bodies with cylindrical casings, also called "rotary pistons," can be attached to the center-facing end faces of the rotary blocks. Two grooves can be machined into the cylindrical outer surface of the rotary pistons to accommodate the sealing elements (quadring, O-ring). The rotary pistons can have a tubular outlet with a union nut on the end face. Bores can be provided between the sealing elements on the cylindrical outer surfaces of the rotary pistons, forming a flow passage to the tubular outlet or pipe channel. The rotary pistons can be inserted into cylinder bushings. Three cylinder liners positioned at 90° to each other can be rigidly connected via two channel sections. The entire unit, also called a "float," can be mounted on a floating support via the rotary pistons. Appropriate bores and recesses can create a fluid connection across both rotation axes to direct the cleaning water or cleaning fluid from the support to the two support arms.

[0057] Additionally or alternatively, an additional electrical system can be provided. Slip ring assemblies can be mounted on the rotary pistons. These can enclose the rotary blocks in sections and have recesses for the pipe outlets with union nuts. For the electrical connection, the slip ring assemblies can be provided with plug connections with threads for union nuts on the front side facing outwards. The slip ring assemblies can be composed of a plurality of slip rings and insulating spacers. The entire block can be pressed onto the rotary piston by two tension screws and thus held together. The consumers are preferably spring-loaded half rings with plug-in connectors. The connection to the control module can be established via the plug-in connectors. All slip ring assemblies can be protected by two-part housings; only the plug-in connector outlets can be accessible from the outside.

[0058] The gear unit can have connecting flanges for the upright and support arms. When assembled, the supply and return lines, the cleaning fluid line, electrical cables for operating the drives and the control module, electrical cables for PV power, and possibly various signal lines can be routed into a sealed interior of the gear unit. The connection to the distribution unit can be established by connecting the rotating blocks to the sealing flanges on the supply and return lines. These flanges can be rigidly connected to the upright and support arms and hold the distribution unit in precise position. The cleaning lines can be connected by tightening union nuts with seals. All electrical components from the upright and support arms can have plug-in connectors with union nuts for security.Special 90° angled connectors on the power outlets allow the control module to be plugged in from the front. The control module can be provided with outputs for the four drives and a sun position sensor. It would also be conceivable to install an output for a wind sensor. Examples of the gear unit, the distribution unit housed within it, and the solar system in which the gear unit can be installed are shown schematically in the figures.

[0059] Fig. 1 shows the mounting of the rotary blocks 1, in particular a first rotary block 1 a, a second rotary block 1 b and a third rotary block 1 c. A hydraulic unit 2, preferably comprising a welded construction or consisting of sealing flange 3, supply and return pipes 8, 7, a line for cleaning or line for cleaning fluid 9 and a clamping disc 6 with through-openings for electrical cables, forms a compact connecting body. The hydraulic unit 2 can be a component of the upright 42, the first support arm 43 and the second support arm. This is or enables a force-locking connection of the rotating blocks 1 to the supply pipe 8 and the return pipe 7 of a upright 42, a first support arm 43 or a second support arm of the solar system. A cable harness (also referred to as an inner cable harness) is designed here as a pipe-in-pipe system 4.The line harness comprises a first line section 11a, which first line section 11a is mounted rotatably and axially movably in the first rotary block 1a, a second line section 11b, which second line section 11b is mounted rotatably and axially movably in the second rotary block 1b, and a third line section 11c, which third line section 11c is mounted rotatably and axially movably in the third rotary block 1c. Thus, the line harness or the pipe-in-pipe system 4 is mounted floating in the rotary blocks 1. The supply and return pipes 8, 7 are encased in a jacket pipe 5 which is welded to the clamping disk 6. The supply and return pipes 8, 7 are pushed through and welded into through-holes of a welded closure disk, which closure disk closes off the end face of the jacket pipe 5. The sealing flange 3 is welded to the supply and return pipes 8, 7.If the cladding tube 5 is welded at the other end in the same way, a vacuum chamber could be created. By screwing the sealing flanges 3 onto the respective rotating block 1a, 1b, 1c, a force-locking connection to the rotating blocks 1 is formed. The sealing flanges 3 are positioned precisely in the gear unit during assembly of the upright 42, the first support arm 43, and the second support arm, in order to connect the rotating blocks 1 in an axially centered manner. Here, the clamping disk 6 is recessed into the flanges of the upright and the support arms and clamped during screwing (see also Fig. 10). The line pipe for cleaning or the line for the cleaning fluid 9 is welded to the clamping disk 6. The supply pipe 8 here has a significantly larger cross-section than the return pipe 7. This is explained by the fact that an example of steam-generating collectors is shown. The flow line carries steam and the return line carries condensate.

[0060] Fig. 2 shows in Fig. 2 A a distribution unit 54. This distribution unit 54 initially comprises the line harness, which comprises the first line section 11 a, the second Line section 11 b and the third line section 11 c, which line sections are connected to one another, and can be seen here in the preferred embodiment as a pipe-in-pipe system 4. Furthermore, the distributor unit 54 comprises the first rotary block 1 a, the second rotary block 1 b and the third rotary block 1 c. An inner body 49, which inner body 49 is designed here as a rotary piston 10, is provided or (here) screwed to each of the rotary blocks 1 or 1 a, 1 b, 1 c. In particular, a first rotary piston 10a is mounted on the first rotary block 1 a, a second rotary piston 10b on the second rotary block 1 b, and a third rotary piston 10c on the third rotary block 1 c. The inner body 49 is part of a transfer unit 45, or a first transfer unit 46a on the first rotating block 1a, a second transfer unit 46b on the second rotating block 1b, and a third transfer unit 46c on the third rotating block 1c (see Fig. 3). Fig.Figure 2B shows a detailed view of the inner body 49 or rotary piston 10 mounted on the second rotary block 1b, in particular the second rotary piston 10b or the third rotary piston 10c. The rotary piston 10 has a recess 12 that surrounds the rotary block 1, or specifically the second rotary block 1b or the third rotary block 1c. First bores 16 in the inner bodies 49 each establish a channel transition from an outgoing tube 15 of the inner body 49 to an outer surface 50 of the inner body 49. In other words, the first bore 16 extends from the outgoing tube 15 (or the first, second, or third connecting piece 46a, 46b, 46c) to the outer surface 50 of the respective inner body 49. The outgoing tube 15 (or the first, second, and / or third connecting piece 46a, 46b, 46c) can protrude at least partially from an end face 51 of the inner body 49. Threaded bores 13 enable the mounting of another unit, for example, a slip ring body 53.The through holes 17 serve for screwing onto the rotary blocks 1. In Fig. 2A, sealing elements 14 can be seen, which are provided circumferentially on the outer surfaces 50 of the inner bodies 49 in order to seal them when the respective inner body 49 is inserted into the respective outer body 48. The upper inner bodies 49 or rotary pistons 10 (provided in the region of the horizontal rotation axes of the tracking device), i.e., the second rotary piston 10b and the third rotary piston 10c, can only have the bore 16 as a flow channel. The vertically oriented inner body 49 or rotary piston 10, i.e., the first rotary piston 10a, can have a channel 20 to distribute the flow to both sides.

[0061] Fig. 3 shows the distribution unit 54 with a float 19. The float 19 is formed by three outer bodies 48, which are connected to one another via a first pipe connection 47a and a second pipe connection 47b. The outer bodies 48 can, as shown here, be formed by cylindrical rings. The three cylindrical rings are fixedly connected (preferably welded) via channels (first pipe connection 47a and second pipe connection 47b). If the inner bodies 49 (rotary piston 10) are inserted into the outer bodies 48 (cylindrical rings) are inserted, closed, sealed channels are created which guide the flow of the cleaning fluid, which cleaning fluid can flow via the outgoing pipe 15 of the first transfer unit 45a (first connecting piece 46a) from the upright 42 into the inner body 49 of the first transfer unit 45a, via the outer body 48 of the first transfer unit 45a and the first pipe connection 47a and the second pipe connection 47b further into the outer bodies 48 of the second transfer unit 45b and the third transfer unit 45c, and finally via the inner bodies 49 of the second transfer unit 45b and the third transfer unit 45c and their respective outgoing pipes 15 (second connecting piece 46b, third connecting piece 46c) via the rotation axes or into the first support arm 43 and the second support arm can lead.Also clearly visible are seals 18, which seals 18 are provided on the end faces of the rotary blocks 1 a, 1 b and 1c for contacting the sealing flanges 3.

[0062] Fig. 4 shows a front view of a distribution unit 54 according to Fig. 3. Visible are the float 19, the rotary blocks 1, the inner bodies 49 (rotary piston 10) and the pipe-in-pipe system 4.

[0063] Fig. 5 shows the (T-piece-shaped) pipe-in-pipe system 4 with the float 19 in the installed position, but without rotating blocks 1 and transfer units 45. A (T-shaped) inner pipe 4.2 and a (T-shaped) outer pipe 4.1 can be seen. Overall, the line string (or the inner line string) therefore also has the shape of a T-piece. The second bores 21 for the fluid passage can also be seen. In particular, the outer body 48 of the first transfer unit 45a has two second bores 21, and the outer body 48 of the second transfer unit 45b and the outer body 48 of the third transfer unit 45c each have a second bore 21. The second bores 21 penetrate the outer bodies 48 and each open at an inner surface 52 of the outer body 48 or the cylinder ring.

[0064] Fig. 6 shows a distribution unit 54 with a module (slip ring body 53) attached with four slip rings, namely two inner slip rings 22 and two outer slip rings 23. The two inner slip rings 22 serve the operational power supply. The two outer slip rings 23 form the two phases for the PV power. Also visible is the second rotary block 1b, which clearly shows that the distribution unit 54 can be easily disassembled and removed from the solar system. The float 19 and the rotary pistons 10 are also visible.

[0065] Fig. 7 shows the structure of the slip ring body 53. Fig. 7 A shows the overall block, which results from a series of insulating blocks 24 and slip rings 22, 23. Fig. 7 B shows the slip rings 22, 23 in their installed position without the insulating blocks 24. Each slip ring 22, 23 has an outgoing nozzle for a plug-in connection, in particular a first outgoing nozzle 22.1 of the first inner slip ring 22, a first outgoing nozzle 22.1 of the second inner slip ring 22, a second outgoing nozzle 23.1 of the first outer slip ring 23, and a second outgoing nozzle 23.1 of the second outer slip ring 23. For securing purposes, a thread for a union nut is provided in each case. As can be seen in Fig. 7 B, corresponding recesses are provided which prevent contact (short circuit) between the individual slip ring modules.

[0066] Fig. 8 shows a distribution unit 54 with complete hydraulic and electrical equipment. Newly visible are the pickups 24a with plug-in contacts. The pickups are preferably designed as half rings with spring preload 25.

[0067] Fig. 9 shows the positioning of the distribution unit 54 in a gear unit 44 of the solar system. The PV unit is connected via cable harnesses with plug-in connectors 26. Angle connectors 27 for connecting the control module are visible. The basic structure of the gear unit 44 is shown, comprising a support plate 31, two slewing ring gears, in particular a first slewing ring gear 29 and a second slewing ring gear 30, and a floating bearing 28.

[0068] Fig. 10 shows all the connecting parts at the outlet of the first support arm 43, the second support arm, and the upright 42. Fig. 10 C shows the hydraulic unit 2 with the supply pipe 8 and the return pipe 7, the sleeve 5 of the clamping disc 6, a connection pipe for cleaning or the line for cleaning fluid 9, and the sealing flange 3. As shown in Fig. 10 A, the clamping disc 6 is recessed into the retaining flange 33 and is clamped during assembly, particularly to the gear unit 44. This ensures a force-fitting and precise positioning of the hydraulic unit 2. The plug-in connections 35 for the electrical system can be seen. The sleeve 5 is equipped with an insulation 34. The thermal bridge from the cladding tube 5 into the clamping disc 6 is minimal, since there is a long path from the first thermal bridge of the cladding tube 5 to the weld point on the clamping disc 6 and vacuum insulation prevails. Fig. 10 B is a rear view of the assembly of Fig. 10 A. Here, the supply and return pipes 8, 7 can be seen.

[0069] Fig. 11 shows a view into the gearbox or gearbox unit 44 with all connections in the installed state.

[0070] Fig. 12 shows a gearbox variant with a floating bearing 28 and a support bearing 30-A for movement around the horizontal axis in two views (Fig. 12 A and Fig. 12 B). The support bearing 30-A is essentially an integral part of the gearbox. This can support more than 700 kg at a horizontal distance of one meter. The swivel body 36 can be seen, which transfers the rotation from the gearbox to the second (left) support arm. Since a floating bearing is planned for the left support arm, the swivel body 36 must absorb bending forces and is therefore preferably a very solid welded construction or a die-casting (see Fig. 12 C). Fig. 12 A also shows the covers 41 for the electrical system and the control module 38. The covers 41 are split in two for assembly reasons.

[0071] Figs. 13 A and 13 B show a gearbox variant with two support bearings, specifically the support bearing 30-A and a second support bearing 30-B. While the first support bearing 30-A represents a fully functioning gearbox, the second support bearing 30-B consists of the gearbox housing with an output slewing ring without gear sets. The swivel body 36, as shown in Fig. 13 C, is a simple bent part in this case, since no high bending forces occur. This design proves to be very rigid and solid.

[0072] Fig. 14 shows the control module 38. This has additional plug contacts 39 located outside a cover, for example, a glass cover 37. Sealing is provided by a rubber grommet 39a. Also visible are plug contacts 27a, which establish or enable a connection to the slip ring body 53.

[0073] Fig. 15 shows the structure of a solar or collector system - for reasons of clarity, it is equipped on one side, ie with only one, the first support arm 43. In addition to the upright 42, the gear unit 44 and the first support arm 43, a folding mechanism 40 with an electric drive and holders for four collectors can be seen, which collectors are to be supplied with cleaning fluid from the upright 42. List of reference symbols 1 turning block 1a first turning block 1 b second turning block 1c third turning block 2 hydraulic units 3 Sealing flange 4 Pipe-in-pipe system 4.1 Outer pipe 4.2 Inner tube 5 Sheath tube 6 clamping disc 7 Return pipe 8 Flow pipe 9 Line for cleaning fluid 10 rotary pistons 10a first rotary piston 10b second rotary piston 10c third rotary piston 11a first line section 11b second line section 11c third line section 12 recess 13 threaded hole 14 Sealing element 15 outgoing pipe 16 first drilling 17 through hole 18 Seal 19 swimmers 20 channels 21 second hole 22 inner slip ring 22.1 first outgoing nozzle 23 outer slip ring 23.1 second outgoing nozzle 24 Insulation block 24a Customer 25 half rings with spring preload 26 plug connection 27 angle plugs 27a Plug contacts (of the control module) 28 loose bearings 29 first slewing ring gear 30 second slewing ring gear 30-AT support bearing / first support bearing 30-B second support bearing 31 Supporting plate 32 Hydraulics 33 Retaining flange 34 Insulation 35 plug connection for the electrical system 36 swivel bodies 37 Glass cover 38 Control module 39 additional plug contacts 39a rubber grommet 40 Folding mechanism 41 Cover 42 stayers 43 first support arm 44 Gear unit 45 Transfer Unit 45a first transfer unit 45b second transfer unit 45c third conduction unit 46a first connection piece 46b second connection piece 46c third connection piece 47a first pipe connection 47b second pipe connection 48 Outer body 49 inner body 50 Outer surface (of the inner body) 51 End face (of the inner body) 52 Inner surface (of the outer ring) 53 slip ring bodies 54 Distribution unit

Claims

Patent claims 1. Distribution unit (54) for a tracking solar system, the distribution unit (54) comprising at least one first line section (11 a) with a first rotating block (1 , 1 a), which first rotating block (1 a) is designed to establish a connection between the first line section (11 a) and a base element, in particular a post (42), of the solar system, and at least one second line section (11 b) with a second rotating block (1 b), which second rotating block (1 b) is designed to establish a connection between the second line section (11 b) and a first support arm (43) of the solar system, wherein the first line section (11 a) is rotatably connected to the first rotating block (1 a) and is preferably mounted in a floating manner in the first rotating block (1 a), and wherein the second line section (11 b) is rotatably connected to the second rotating block (lb) and is preferably mounted in a floating manner in the second rotating block (1b), characterized in that a first transfer unit (45a) with a first connecting piece (46a) for connection to a line for cleaning liquid (9) of the base element, in particular of the upright (42) is provided on the first rotating block (1a), and a second transfer unit (45b) with a second connecting piece (46b) for connection to a line for cleaning liquid (9) of the first support arm (43) is provided on the second rotating block (1b), wherein the second transfer unit (45b) is connected to the first transfer unit (45a) via at least one first pipe connection (47a) running outside the first line section (11a) and outside the second line section (11b).

2. Distribution unit (54) according to claim 1, characterized in that the distribution unit (54) has a third line section (11c) with a third rotary block (lc), which third rotary block (15c) for establishing a connection between the third line section (11c) and a second support arm of the Solar system is set up, wherein the third line section (11c) is rotatably connected to the third rotary block (1c) and is preferably mounted floatingly in the third rotary block (1c), wherein a third transfer unit (45c) with a third connecting piece (46c) for connection to a line for cleaning liquid (9) of the second support arm is provided on the third rotary block (1c), and wherein the third transfer unit (45c) is connected to the first transfer unit (45a) via at least one second pipe connection (47b) running outside the first line section (11a), the second line section (11b), and outside the third line section (11c).

3. Distributor unit (54) according to one of claims 1 or 2, characterized in that the first transfer unit (45a), the second transfer unit (45b) and / or the third transfer unit (45c) each comprise an outer body, which outer body is preferably designed as an outer ring (48), and an inner body (49) which is rotatable relative to the outer body or the outer ring (48).

4. Distribution unit (54) according to claim 3, characterized in that the first transfer unit (45a), in particular the inner body (49) of the first transfer unit (45a), is connected in a rotationally fixed manner to the first rotary block (1a), the second transfer unit (45b), in particular the inner body (49) of the second transfer unit (45b), is connected in a rotationally fixed manner to the second rotary block (1b), and / or the third transfer unit (45c), in particular the inner body (49) of the third transfer unit (45c), is connected in a rotationally fixed manner to the third rotary block (1c).

5. Distributor unit (54) according to one of claims 3 to 4, characterized in that the inner body (49), in particular the inner body (49) of the first transfer unit (45a), the inner body (49) of the second transfer unit (45b), and / or the inner body (49) of the third transfer unit (45c), has an outer surface (50) which is at least partially cylindrical in shape, on which outer surface (50) a first bore (16) connected to the connecting piece (46a, 46b, 46c) of the respective transfer unit (45a, 45b, 45c) opens.

6. Distributor unit (54) according to one of claims 3 to 5, characterized in that the connecting piece (46a, 46b, 46c) from the inner body (49) of the respective transfer unit (45a, 45b, 45c), in particular the first connecting piece (46a) from the inner body (49) of the first transfer unit (45a), the second Connection piece (46b) protrudes from the inner body (49) of the second transfer unit (45b), and / or the third connection piece (46c) protrudes from the inner body (49) of the third transfer unit (45c), in particular from an end face (51) of the respective inner body (49), preferably arranged orthogonally to the cylindrical outer surface (50).

7. Distributor unit (54) according to one of claims 3 to 6, characterized in that the first pipe connection (47a) extends between the outer ring (48) of the first transfer unit (45a) and the outer ring (48) of the second transfer unit (45b).

8. Distributor unit (54) according to one of claims 3 to 7, characterized in that the second pipe connection (47b) extends between the outer ring (48) of the first transfer unit (45a) and the outer ring (48) of the third transfer unit (45c).

9. Distributor unit (54) according to one of claims 3 to 8, characterized in that the outer ring (48), in particular the outer ring (48) of the first transfer unit (45a), the outer ring (48) of the second transfer unit (45b), and / or the outer ring (48) of the third transfer unit (45c), has an inner surface (52) which is cylindrical at least in sections.

10. Distributor unit (54) according to claim 9, characterized in that on the inner surface (52) of the first transfer unit (45a), in particular on the inner surface (52) of the outer body or the outer ring (48) of the first transfer unit (45a), as well as on the inner surface (52) of the second transfer unit (45b), in particular on the inner surface (52) of the outer body or the outer ring (48) of the second transfer unit (45b), a second bore (21) is provided, wherein the second bore (21) on the inner surface (52) of the first transfer unit (45a), in particular on the inner surface (52) of the outer body or the outer ring (48) of the first transfer unit (45a), is connected via the first pipe connection (47a) to the second bore (21) on the inner surface (52) of the second transfer unit (45b), in particular on the inner surface (52) of the outer body or the outer ring (48) of the second transfer unit (45b). 11 . Distributor unit (54) according to one of claims 9 or 10, characterized in that on the inner surface (52) of the third transfer unit (45c), in particular on the inner surface (52) of the outer body or the outer ring (48) of the third Transfer unit (45c), a second bore (21) and on the inner surface (52) of the first transfer unit (45a), in particular on the inner surface (52) of the outer body or the outer ring (48) of the first transfer unit (45a), a further second bore (21) is provided, wherein the further second bore (21) on the inner surface (52) of the first transfer unit (45a), in particular on the inner surface (52) of the outer body or the outer ring (48) of the first transfer unit (45a), is connected via the second pipe connection (47a) to the second bore (21) on the inner surface (52) of the third transfer unit (45c), in particular on the inner surface (52) of the outer body or the outer ring (48) of the third transfer unit (45c).

12. Distributor unit (54) according to one of claims 5 to 11, characterized in that on the outer surface (50), in particular on the outer surface (50) of the inner body (49) of the first transfer unit (45a), the outer surface (50) of the inner body of the second transfer unit (45b), and / or the outer surface (50) of the inner body (49) of the third transfer unit (45c), two sealing elements (14) are provided, which sealing elements (14) are preferably arranged circumferentially on both sides of the first bore (16) of the outer surface (50).

13. Distributor unit (54) according to one of claims 5 to 12, characterized in that a first section of the outer surface (50), in particular a first section of the outer surface (50) of the inner body (49) of the first transfer unit (45a), a first section of the outer surface (50) of the inner body (49) of the second transfer unit (45b), and / or a first section of the outer surface (50) of the inner body (49) of the third transfer unit (45c), in which first section the first bore (16) is arranged, relative to a second section of the outer surface (50), in particular a second section of the outer surface (50) of the inner body (49) of the first transfer unit (45a), a second section of the outer surface (50) of the inner body (49) of the second transfer unit (45b), and / or a second section of the outer surface (50) of the inner body (49) of the third transfer unit (45c), in in which second section the sealing elements (14) are arranged,especially radially, is offset inwards., 14. Distributor unit (54) according to one of claims 12 to 13, characterized in that the sealing elements (14), preferably only the sealing elements (14), contact the inner surface (52), wherein in particular the sealing elements (14) of the inner body (49) of the first transfer unit (45a) contact the inner surface (52) of the outer ring (48) of the first transfer unit (45a), the sealing elements (14) of the inner body (49) of the second transfer unit (45b) contact the inner surface (52) of the outer ring (48) of the second transfer unit (45b), and / or the sealing elements (14) of the inner body (49) of the third transfer unit (45c) contact the inner surface (52) of the outer ring (48) of the third transfer unit (45c).

15. Distributor unit (54) according to one of claims 10 to 14, characterized in that the second bore (21) and / or the further second bore (21) is closed by the outer surface (50) in at least one first rotational position of the inner body (49), wherein in particular the outer surface (50) of the inner body (49) of the second transfer unit (45b) closes the second bore (21) of the outer ring (48) of the second transfer unit (45b) in at least one first rotational position of the second rotary block (1b), and / or the outer surface (50) of the inner body (49) of the third transfer unit (45c) closes the second bore (21) of the outer ring (48) of the third transfer unit (45c) in at least one first rotational position of the third rotary block (1c).

16. Distributor unit (54) according to one of claims 10 to 15, characterized in that the second bore (21) or the further second bore (21) at least partially overlaps with the first bore (16) in at least one second rotational position of the inner body (49), wherein in particular the second bore (21) of the outer ring (48) of the second transfer unit (45b) at least partially overlaps with the first bore (16) of the inner body (49) of the second transfer unit (45b) in at least one second rotational position of the second rotary block (1b), and / or the second bore (21) of the outer ring (48) of the third transfer unit (45c) at least partially overlaps with the first bore (16) of the inner body (49) of the third transfer unit (45c) in at least one second rotational position of the third rotary block (1c).

17. Distribution unit (54) according to one of claims 1 to 16, characterized in that the first transfer unit (45a) is formed integrally with the first rotary block (1a), the second transfer unit (45b) is formed integrally with the second rotary block (1b), and / or the third transfer unit (45c) is formed integrally with the third rotary block (1a).

18. Distribution unit (54) according to one of claims 1 to 16, characterized in that the first transfer unit (45a), the second transfer unit (45b), and / or the third transfer unit (45c) is / are designed as a separate component.

19. Distribution unit (54) according to one of claims 1 to 18, characterized in that a slip ring body (53) for connecting electrical lines of the base element, in particular of the post (42), the first support arm (43), and / or the second support arm, is provided on the first transfer unit (45a), the second transfer unit (45b) and / or the third transfer unit (45c), wherein the slip ring body (53) comprises a plurality of slip rings spaced apart by insulating blocks (24), in particular slip rings (22) for the operational power supply and / or slip rings (23) for PV power.

20. Distributor unit (54) according to one of claims 3 to 19, characterized in that the outer ring (48) of the first transfer unit (45a), the first Pipe connection (47a) and the outer ring (48) of the second transfer unit (45b), and preferably also the second pipe connection (47b) and the outer ring (48) of the third transfer unit (45c), are formed integrally with one another.

21. Solar system comprising a distribution unit (54) according to one of the preceding claims.

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