Solar panel sun tracking methods and systems

Abstract

Embodiments of the application may include autonomous sun tracking systems (1) with a self-contained, self-powered solar panel positioning device (2) that may include a solar panel mount (4), a first pneumatically driven axis positioner (5) to adjustably position the solar-panel mount, a second pneumatically driven axis positioner (7) to adjustably position the solar panel mount, at least one electrically powered air pump (12), at least one air reservoir (13), an on-board control unit (15) and the like.

Description

[0001] SOLAR PANEL SUN TRACKING METHODS AND SYSTEMS

[0002] This application is a PCT International Patent Application claiming priority to and the benefit of U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 63 / 666,966 filed July 2, 2024, hereby incorporated by reference herein.

[0003] TECHNICAL FIELD

[0004] Embodiments of this application relate to autonomous sun tracking systems using self- contained, self-powered solar panel positioning devices that may utilize pneumatically driven axis positioners.

[0005] BACKGROUND

[0006] It is desirable to allow photovoltaic solar panels to move throughout the day in line with the radiation given from the sun to take advantage of significant efficiency gains over a stationary solar panel. For example, tracking the sun from west to east with a photovoltaic solar panel can result in an increase in energy output. There is a need for better and efficient technology systems and methods for tracking the sun with photovoltaic panels.

[0007] DISCLOSURE OF THE INVENTION

[0008] The present application includes a variety of aspects, which may be selected in different combinations based upon the particular application or needs to be addressed. In various embodiments, the application may be an autonomous solar power panel tracking system which may allow a solar panel to be moved in position with sunlight exposure.

[0009] It may be an object of the application to have an autonomous system that requires no engineering or even site preparation.

[0010] It may be another object to provide a self-contained, self-powered solar panel positioning device where a system such as an individual positioning device attached to a solar panel may require no connections to anything outside of the structure including but not limited to, no electrical connections, no mechanical connections, or the like to power or control the solar panel tracking. It may be yet another object to provide a dampening of any force including harmonic motion created by the wind or other outside force.

[0011] It may be another object to limit component connection with perhaps limited hard piping and perhaps even no soft piping which may reduce the ability of the system to leak air.

[0012] It may be yet another object to provide a tracking system that can utilize inconsistent or even low power generated directly from the photovoltaic panel.

[0013] Another object of the application may include providing a tracking system using compressor, pneumatic cylinder, dampener, and even a controller as pail of the movement mechanism for the solar panel.

[0014] It may be another object to provide a clock system directing positions for movement of a photovoltaic panel where the time or even a number of strokes may be proportional to the position of the system.

[0015] Yet another object of the application may be to reuse air, fluids, lubricant, or any other type of working fluid in a self-contained container protecting the mechanism from the environment.

[0016] Naturally, further objects, goals and embodiments of the application are disclosed throughout other areas of the specification, claims, and drawings.

[0017] BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0018] FIG. 1 is a non-limiting example of a perspective view of a single axis positioner of a sun tracking solar panel system in accordance with some embodiments of the application.

[0019] FIG. 2 is a non-limiting example of a front view of a single axis positioner of a sun tracking solar panel system in accordance with some embodiments of the application.

[0020] FIG. 3 is a side cross-sectional view taken along line 3-3 in FIG. 2 in accordance with some embodiments of the application.

[0021] FIG. 4 is a non-limiting example of a perspective view of a second axis positioner of a sun tracking solar panel system in accordance with some embodiments of the application.

[0022] FIG. 5 is a non-limiting example of a side view of a second axis positioner of a sun tracking solar panel system in accordance with some embodiments of the application.

[0023] FIG. 6 is a non-limiting example of a front view of a second axis positioner of a sun tracking solar panel system in accordance with some embodiments of the application. FIG. 7 is front side cross-sectional view taken along line 7-7 in FIG. 6 in accordance with some embodiments of the application.

[0024] FIG. 8 is a non-limiting example of a side view of a self-contained, self-powered solar panel positioning device having a first and second axis positioner in accordance with some embodiments of the application.

[0025] FIG. 9 is a non-limiting example of a top view of a self-contained, self-powered solar panel positioning device having a first and second axis positioner in accordance with some embodiments of the application.

[0026] FIG. 10 is a non-limiting example of a front view of a self-contained, self-powered solar panel positioning device having a first and second axis positioner in accordance with some embodiments of the application.

[0027] FIG. 11 is a non-limiting example of an on-board control unit perhaps to control a first axis positioner in accordance with some embodiments of the application.

[0028] FIG. 12 is a non-limiting example of an on-board control unit perhaps to control a first axis positioner in accordance with some embodiments of the application.

[0029] FIG. 13 is a non-limiting example of an on-board control unit perhaps to control a first axis positioner in accordance with some embodiments of the application.

[0030] FIG. 14 is a non-limiting example of a second on-board control unit perhaps to control a second axis positioner in accordance with some embodiments of the application.

[0031] FIG. 15 is a non-limiting example of a second on-board control unit perhaps to control a second axis positioner in accordance with some embodiments of the application.

[0032] FIG. 16 is a non-limiting example of a second on-board control unit perhaps to control a second axis positioner in accordance with some embodiments of the application.

[0033] FIG. 17 is a non-limiting example of an assembled autonomous sun tracking system in accordance with some embodiments of the application.

[0034] FIG. 18 is a non-limiting example of limit switches in accordance with some embodiments of the application.

[0035] MODE(S) FOR CARRYING OUT THE INVENTION It should be understood that embodiments include a variety of aspects, which may be combined in different ways. The following descriptions arc provided to list elements and describe some of the embodiments of the application. These elements are listed with initial embodiments; however, it should be understood that they may be combined in any manner and in any number to create additional embodiments. The variously described examples and preferred embodiments should not be construed to limit the embodiments of the application to only the explicitly described systems, techniques, and applications. The specific embodiment or embodiments shown are examples only. The specification should be understood and is intended as supporting broad claims as well as each embodiment, and even claims where other embodiments may be excluded. Importantly, disclosure of merely exemplary embodiments is not meant to limit the breadth of other more encompassing claims that may be made where such may be only one of several methods or embodiments which could be employed in a broader claim or the like. Further, this description should be understood to support and encompass descriptions and claims of all the various embodiments, systems, techniques, methods, devices, and applications with any number of the disclosed elements, with each element alone, and also with any and all various permutations and combinations of all elements in this or any subsequent application.

[0036] Embodiments may include an autonomous sun tracking system comprising a self- contained, self-powered solar panel positioning device; a solar panel mount of said self-contained, self-powered solar panel positioning device; a first axis positioner of said self-contained, self- powered solar panel positioning device to adjustably position said solar panel mount; a second axis positioner of said self-contained, self-powered solar panel positioning device to adjustably position said solar panel mount along a different axis from said first axis positioner; at least one electrically powered air pump of said self-contained, self-powered solar panel positioning device connected to said first axis positioner and said second axis positioner; at least one air reservoir of said self-contained, self-powered solar panel positioning device connected to said electrically powered air pump; and perhaps even an on-board control unit of said self-contained, self-powered solar panel positioning device to control said first axis positioner, said second axis positioner, said at least one electrically powered air pump, and said at least one air reservoir.

[0037] Other embodiments may include a method for autonomously tracking the sun comprising steps of: attaching a photovoltaic solar panel to a solar panel mount of a self-contained, self- powered solar panel positioning device; moving said photovoltaic solar panel about a first axis using a first axis positioner of said self-contained, self-powered solar panel positioning device; moving said photovoltaic solar panel about a second axis using a second axis position of said self- contained, self-powered solar panel positioning device; connecting at least one electrically powered air pump fueled by an air reservoir to said first axis positioner and said second axis positioner; and perhaps even on-board controlling movement of said photovoltaic solar panel along said first axis and said second axis.

[0038] An autonomous sun tracking system (1) and methods thereof may allow a solar panel to be moved throughout the day to track the sun’s movement for optimal efficiency. An autonomous system may be one that can operate with little or even no control or intervention, may not be subject to any outside control, and may even function independently. An autonomous sun tracking system (1) may include a self-contained, self-powered solar panel positioning device (2) which may be used to hold a photovoltaic solar panel (3) at various positions to track the sun as may be understood in FIGS. 10 and 17. A self-contained, self-powered solar panel positioning device (2) may provide a system designed to function independently and even autonomously within the system. This may include that a device has everything it needs within it to operate and function without needing any outside connections, support or other resources.

[0039] In embodiments, a self-contained, self-powered solar panel positioning device (2) may include a solar panel mount (4) such that a photovoltaic solar panel may be attached to the device with the solar panel mount (4) as shown in FIGS. 1,2, and 8-10. A solar panel mount may include attachments, frames, or the like where the solar panel can be securely attached to the self- contained, self-powered solar panel positioning device including but not limited to mounts, bolts, screws, rails, clamps, wiring, seals and the like.

[0040] A self-contained, self-powered solar panel positioning device (2) can move a solar panel into various positions. This may include positioning along an axis, along two axes, or more. A first axis positioner (5) may adjustably position a solar panel mount which therein moves an attached solar panel about at least one axis including a first axis (6) as shown in FIGS. 1-3, 8, and 10. A panel mount and solar panel may rotate or even pivot along an axis which may be a center point or fixed line for the movement. A second axis positioner (7) may adjustably position a solar panel mount and thus an attached solar’ panel along a different axis from a first axis positioner such as along a second axis (8) as shown in FIGS 4-10. An axis may be a side axis where movement may occur left and right, up and down, or back and forth along a single plane or different planes. With two axis positioners along two different axes, the solar panel may be rotated around two different axes. In some embodiments, additional axis positioners along other axis may be used. Each axis positioner may have a solar panel mount (4). Each axis positioner may have an orifice fitting (27) as shown in FIG. 5 perhaps for connections to the device.

[0041] Axis positioners (5), (7) may be pneumatically driven axis positioners that may use compressed air as its source of power to perform mechanical movement of a solar panel mount and a solar panel. This may convert energy from the pressurized air into motion perhaps through the use of a pneumatic cylinder utilizing compressed air to produce linear motion and force. This may include a cylinder barrel, piston, piston rod and even end caps. Air pressure may move a piston in one direction and a spring may return it. Compressed air may enter one side of the cylinder, the air pressure may push the piston which may move the piston rod, the rod may then perform pushing. FIGS. 1-3 show an example of a first pneumatically driven axis positioner. FIGS. 4-7 shown an example of a second pneumatically driven axis positioner. FIGS. 8-10 show an example of a device having a first and second pneumatically driven axis positioners.

[0042] A pneumatically driven axis positioner may include a compressor (9), a pneumatic cylinder (10), and even a dampener (11) to provide panel movement as shown in FIGS. 1-10. In embodiments, a dampener may be a spring, shock absorber, pad, mount, vibration isolator, foam or the like. A device may include at least one electrically powered air pump (12) which may be connected to an axis positioner, perhaps even connected to a first and second axis positioners. In some embodiments, a device may have more than one electrically powered air pump perhaps one connected to each axis positioner. An electrically powered air pump (12) may be fueled by air perhaps from an air reservoir (13) which may be a pre-filled air reservoir a soft air reservoir or the like as shown in FIGS. 8-10.

[0043] Air supplied to an axis positioner may be from an electrically powered air pump (12) which may be a device that can use electrical energy to move air perhaps to inflate, pressurize or the like as shown in FIGS. 11, 13, 14, and 16. In embodiments, an air pump (12) may be a micropump which may be a small air pump perhaps using a low voltage such between 0 to 24 volts, as up to about 24 volts, or the like. An air pump of a self-contained, self-powered solar panel positioning device may be powered by the attached solar panel. An air pump (12) may be a compressor in some embodiments. Embodiments may provide an on-board control unit (15) which may control the self- contained, self-powered solar panel positioning device. An on-board control unit (15) may be a computing unit perhaps integrated into the positioning device to perform specific control, processing, or decision-making tasks as shown in FIGS. 8-16. A control unit may be microprocessor and may process data and execute programmed instructions directly within the device perhaps without communication with an external computer and may even allow the device to operate independently and make real-time decisions based on input signals, sensors, or programmed logic. An on-board control unit may control a first axis positioner, a second axis positioner, at least one electrically powered air pump, at least one air reservoir and the like such as to on-board control movement of a photovoltaic solar panel along a first axis (6) and even second axis (7).

[0044] FIGS. 11-13 show an example of a first on-board control unit which may control a first pneumatically driven axis positioner and air reservoir. FIGS. 14-16 show an example of a second on-board control unit which may control a second pneumatically driven axis positioner and air reservoir. A control unit may have a controller (25), fuse block (20), a first manifold (21), valve (22) such as a solenoid, pressure sensor (23), a second manifold (24), or the like.

[0045] A self-contained, self-powered solar panel positioning device may include a universal surface mount (16) which may allow universally mounting of the self-contained, self-powered solar panel positioning device to any foundation as shown in FIGS. 8 and 10. A universal surface mount (16) may be the entire device design. A foundation may include but is not limited to the ground, a roof, a pole, and the like. Such universal surface mount (16) may be used without any site preparation. Mounting a device to any foundation without having to prepare the foundation first may provide that the device can be securely attached to a variety of surfaces without needing surface leveling, drilling, pouring concrete pads, or making structural modifications beforehand. Such device can allow installation directly onto existing ground, floors, or structures — regardless of surface irregularities or material types.

[0046] In embodiments, a device may include a force dampener (14) which may be designed to reduce, absorb, or dissipate energy from sudden forces, impacts, or vibrations such as wind, weather, and the like as shown in FIGS. 1 and 5. It may limit the transfer of force from one part of the device to another, helping to protect the equipment. A self-contained, self-powered solar panel positioning device of an autonomous sun tracking system may not use a drive shaft or any kind of mechanical component used to transmit rotational power or torque from one part of a machine to another.

[0047] Embodiments of this application may provide an integrated system for use with solar panels and may include a compressor, pneumatic cylinder, dampener, and even a control unit. This may provide an autonomous unitized assembly that can position items such as solar photovoltaic panels, mirrors, parabolic reflectors, or the like perhaps to track the sun as it moves throughout the day. This may greatly increase efficiency of solar power capabilities.

[0048] An axis positioner may be an air cylinder perhaps with an external custom spring return. A positioner may have orifices for stability, see US Pat. No. 9,677,576 B2 to Pawelski et al., hereby incorporated by reference herein, which may be used.

[0049] A compressor may have a “small bore” air cylinder which can pump low volumes of air perhaps at a constant volume at a varying rate and even into a larger positioning cylinder. Other ultra-small compressor designs may be used that are not a piston-cylinder arrangement. In embodiments, a small bore can allow a system to be driven by a small DC motor. A DC motor may tap directly off the panels for a power source. This type of arrangement between the motor, gearbox, and PV panel may provide that they are mechanically isolated from any wind loads.

[0050] At installation, a device may be mounted to a single fixed point perhaps with a first hinge on an east-west axis or even a true east-west axis. Latitude can be accounted for by the angle at which the unit is mounted.

[0051] A control unit may command the motor and even the solenoid valve perhaps to position the panels throughout the day and can be powered directly from the PV panel output. A control unit may include a timer, a counter, or the like. A control unit may be connected with satellites, Bluetooth, wifi, or the like. In embodiments, a control unit may “wake up” in the morning and gets the time and date from an internal clock or satellite or the like. An internally stored algorithm may use this information to control the movement of the solar panel perhaps by the amount of pressure added to or removed from a pneumatic cylinder, by the amount of time, by a number of compressor strokes, or the like to position the panels properly for the given time of day.

[0052] Controlling the position of the panels, such as a master control philosophy, may be accomplished by aligning the timing or even the number of strokes of the compressor to equal a position. This approach may eliminate all needs for sensors or even feedback and can reduce not only initial cost but maintenance and complexity as well and the like.

[0053] A total compressor power needed may be close to or even negligible compared to the increased output from the photovoltaic panels. In applications where more power may be needed perhaps because of local conditions, the compressed air potential energy can be regenerated at night perhaps with a turbine and battery or the like. Another possibility for the energy is to use it to force a lubricant, or any type of working fluid, across the mechanical components further extending the life span of the system.

[0054] At night, or afternoon, perhaps in the case of a second axis positioner, a control unit can open a solenoid valve that can allow pressurized air out of the system. A precision orifice may mean that air flow can be repeatable. A return stroke philosophy may include that time that the solenoid is open equals a position. Orifices in the air flow may also make motion smooth and even slow. A control philosophy can check ambient temperature throughout the day and can compensate for the number of strokes needed for changes such as in the spring constant and the air temperature or the like.

[0055] To control an east-west axis and even a north-south axis or both, a controller may need to know the time of day and the date. Both can come from an internal clock.

[0056] An algorithm for a system may be complex, but the hardware may be simple. A control unit can turn the compressor on for known periods of time and can open a solenoid perhaps based on time as well. The cost of the control hardware may be low perhaps because of the simplicity. One control may control both axes and may include a simple circuit board.

[0057] A compressor assembly may be attached directly to a positioning air cylinder perhaps to prevent leaks. Compressor run-time versus position can be repeatable due to Boyles Law.

[0058] As mentioned herein, for wind loads, an arrangement may act like a shock absorber on a car perhaps providing stability. Harmonic vibrations which can be a great danger to shaft driven systems can be automatically dampened.

[0059] There may be at least two check valves at the compressor discharge perhaps with a void space in between which may isolate any wind loads from the compressor itself. This may provide that the motor can be small and the linkages light and inexpensive and the like.

[0060] In the past, a pneumatic system in an outside environment could be impossible without reliable and high-quality air filtration. Such filters would need to be changed or even cleaned which requires constant maintenance and not very feasible in environments. Embodiments of the application provide an integrated compressor where the system can reuse the same air day after day such with the air reservoir. In this system, filtration may not be needed since the air in the bag will just be moved the bag to the internal chambers of the cylinders, causing the bag deflate and inflate. Having an isolated lubricant to be added at the initial installation which can extend the life of the compressor, compressor parts, mechanisms, positioner seals, and the like.

[0061] A bag may surround all the moving parts perhaps isolating such parts from the outside environment.

[0062] In accordance with the various embodiments, a system may be autonomous where it can be attached to anything and it can staid tracking. There may be little need to grade the earth surface perhaps because the mechanisms may be completely independent such as with a single attachment point. Thus, attachments and systems may not need to be aligned with each other or at a common elevation. This can reduce both the cost of initial engineering and installation labor. The impact on the environment can be minimized and each individual unit can be located perhaps wherever impacts are least. A unit could even be attached to dead tree stumps. In urban areas, a unit can be mounted to roves, walls, or the like and the movement mechanism may be hidden perhaps providing a nice appearance. There may be no need for shafts going in front of windows or even worrying if a mounting roof is flat or the like.

[0063] Solar panels can be attached to a hinged mechanism which can turn by a pneumatic cylinder. On a two-axis system, a second (e.g., north-south) hinge may be attached to a moving part of the first one (e.g., east-west). A unit can come completely assembled with controls, all internal piping and wiring, and pivoting mechanism. In other embodiments, a unit may be disassembled.

[0064] At the end of the life of a unit, which can be estimated at 20 year's perhaps with no maintenance needed, the unit can be rebuilt in the field with minimal parts and labor. An autonomous feature may be used here as maintenance on one unit may not require shutting down the other units.

[0065] A clock device could be used to give a signal to a timer to run perhaps with “standard” polarity. The number of movements required per hour can vary throughout the day. It may not be a constant number. As a non-limiting example, a clock can tell the timer to run in standard polarity for about 1 minute in the morning, which may mean that it can move 1 time every 2 minutes.

[0066] As mentioned, the photovoltaic panel may provide power to the tracking system. The power being generated can be dependent on the intensity of the sun at that time. For example, if it is cloudy, the signal can be less than the desired 24V; and as the sun gets more intense throughout the day, power supplied to the motor can increase. The power the motor receives can affect how quickly it can complete a stroke. Limit switches (26) may be used to account for this issue as shown in FIG. 18.

[0067] A clock can tell the motor that it needs to stroke for a given amount of time perhaps based on the time of the day. Depending on how much power the motor may receive at that time, can depend on how long it may take to complete that stroke. It may need to stroke 1 time in 2 minutes; however, it may only take a few seconds to complete that stroke. The motor may then have to sit silent until it is time to stroke again in its given amount of time. That is where a first limit switch (26) and perhaps a second limit switch may be used. The motor could stroke the cylinder out which may pull air into its internal volume. Once the shaft on the small positioner may be extended to the first limit switch, which may be located at the end of its stroke, the motor can turn off. This stops the motor from dead heading and even damaging itself and the gearbox. The motor then could sit until the clock tells the timer to switch the polarity and run for a given amount of time. This time the second limit switch could trigger the motor to shut off. This could be repeated throughout the day perhaps filling the larger positioning cylinder and in turn tracking the sun over the day. A clock and timer could be a PLC, a simple Razzbcrry style chip, actual hardware, or the like. FIG. 18 show a non-limiting example of utilizing limit switches to provide positive feedback of completed strokes as a solar panel moves into different positions.

[0068] A timer and even a clock can be used to calculate the position of the solar panel during the day. Another approach may be to add a potentiometer or the like to the pivoting shaft that the panel itself rotates on. As the day progresses, it can be known where the panel should be. The potentiometer could be used as feedback perhaps to ensure a correct angle is being observed.

[0069] In other embodiments, feedback from the potentiometer may be used to vary how many strokes or time may be required per hour. For example, when the day starts, it may pump “x” times per hour, and at the end of the day, it may pump lOx times per hour or the like. Any change to the number of pumps per hour may be used. A potentiometer could be the signal to control this variable perhaps as the panel rotates and even activates the potentiometer. A signal from the potentiometer could be used to scale the strokes or timing required per time period.

[0070] In embodiments, various operating calculations may be utilized with a panel tracking system. This may include, but is not limited to: a morning panel tracking activation time at about 10 am; a night time panel tracking deactivation time at about 2 pm; this may be based on tracking for about 60 degrees of the suns sweep; a panel may be in a static (perhaps unrotated) state prior to about 10 am; a panel may be fully rotated at about 2 pm and may be static in the fully rotated state position; there may be about 2.4 minutes per stroke or timing cycle; about 1.5 minutes on positive polarity; about 0.9 minutes on negative polarity; and about 20 years life span * 365 days / year * 100 cycles per day = about 373,000 cycle life span; any permutation or combination thereof; or the like.

[0071] As can be easily understood from the foregoing, the basic concepts of the various embodiments of the present invention(s) may be embodied in a variety of ways. It involves both solar panel sun tracking techniques as well as devices to accomplish the appropriate solar panel sun tracker. In this application, the solar panel sun tracking techniques are disclosed as part of the results shown to be achieved by the various devices described and as steps which are inherent to utilization. They are simply the natural result of utilizing the devices as intended and described. In addition, while some devices are disclosed, it should be understood that these not only accomplish certain methods but also can be varied in a number of ways. Importantly, as to all of the foregoing, all of these facets should be understood to be encompassed by this disclosure.

[0072] The discussion included in this application is intended to serve as a basic description. The reader should be aware that the specific discussion may not explicitly describe all embodiments possible; many alternatives are implicit. It also may not fully explain the generic nature of the various embodiments of the invention(s) and may not explicitly show how each feature or element can actually be representative of a broader function or of a great variety of alternative or equivalent elements. As one example, terms of degree, terms of approximation, and / or relative terms may be used. These may include terms such as the words: substantially, about, only, and the like. These words and types of words are to be understood in a dictionary sense as terms that encompass an ample or considerable amount, quantity, size, etc. as well as terms that encompass largely but not wholly that which is specified. Further, for this application if or when used, terms of degree, terms of approximation, and / or relative terms should be understood as also encompassing more precise and even quantitative values that include various levels of precision and the possibility of claims that address a number of quantitative options and alternatives. For example, to the extent ultimately used, the existence or non-existence of a substance or condition in a particular input, output, or at a particular stage can be specified as substantially only x or substantially free of x, as a value of about x, or such other similar language. In context, these should be understood by a person of ordinary skill as being disclosed and included whether in an absolute value sense or in valuing one set of or substance as compared to the value of a second set of or substance. Again, these are implicitly included in this disclosure and should (and, it is believed, would) be understood to a person of ordinary skill in this field. Where the application is described in device-oriented terminology, each element of the device implicitly performs a function. Apparatus claims may not only be included for the device described, but also method or process claims may be included to address the functions of the embodiments and that each element performs. Neither the description nor the terminology is intended to limit the scope of the claims that will be included in any subsequent patent application.

[0073] It should also be understood that a variety of changes may be made without departing from the essence of the various embodiments of the invention(s). Such changes are also implicitly included in the description. They still fall within the scope of the various embodiments of the invention(s). A broad disclosure encompassing the explicit embodiment(s) shown, the great variety of implicit alternative embodiments, and the broad methods or processes and the like are encompassed by this disclosure and may be relied upon when drafting the claims for any subsequent patent application. It should be understood that such language changes and broader or more detailed claiming may be accomplished at a later date (such as by any required deadline) or in the event the applicant subsequently seeks a patent filing based on this filing. With this understanding, the reader should be aware that this disclosure is to be understood to support any subsequently filed patent application that may seek examination of as broad a base of claims as deemed within the applicant's right and may be designed to yield a patent covering numerous aspects of embodiments of the invention(s) both independently and as an overall system.

[0074] Further, each of the various elements of the embodiments of the invention(s) and claims may also be achieved in a variety of manners. Additionally, when used or implied, an element is to be understood as encompassing individual as well as plural structures that may or may not be physically connected. This disclosure should be understood to encompass each such variation, be it a variation of an embodiment of any apparatus embodiment, a method or process embodiment, or even merely a variation of any clement of these. Particularly, it should be understood that as the disclosure relates to elements of the various embodiments of the invention(s), the words for each element may be expressed by equivalent apparatus terms or method terms — even if only the function or result is the same. Such equivalent, broader, or even more generic terms should be considered to be encompassed in the description of each element or action. Such terms can be substituted where desired to make explicit the implicitly broad coverage to which embodiments of the invention(s) is entitled. As but one example, it should be understood that all actions may be expressed as a means for taking that action or as an element which causes that action. Similarly, each physical element disclosed should be understood to encompass a disclosure of the action which that physical element facilitates. Regarding this last aspect, as but one example, the disclosure of a “controller” should be understood to encompass disclosure of the act of “controlling” — whether explicitly discussed or not — and, conversely, were there effectively disclosure of the act of “controlling”, such a disclosure should be understood to encompass disclosure of a “controller” and even a “means for controlling.” Such changes and alternative terms are to be understood to be explicitly included in the description. Further, each such means (whether explicitly so described or not) should be understood as encompassing all elements that can perform the given function, and all descriptions of elements that perform a described function should be understood as a non-limiting example of means for performing that function. As other non-limiting examples, it should be understood that claim elements can also be expressed as any of: components, programming, subroutines, logic, or elements that are configured to, or configured and arranged to, provide or even achieve a particular result, use, purpose, situation, function, or operation, or as components that are capable of achieving a particular activity, result, use, purpose, situation, function, or operation. All should be understood as within the scope of this disclosure and written description.

[0075] Any patents, publications, or other references mentioned in this application for patent are hereby incorporated by reference. Any priority case(s) claimed by this application is hereby appended and hereby incorporated by reference. In addition, as to each term used it should be understood that unless its utilization in this application is inconsistent with a broadly supporting interpretation, common dictionary definitions should be understood as incorporated for each term and all definitions, alternative terms, and synonyms such as contained in the Random House Webster’s Unabridged Dictionary, second edition are hereby incorporated by reference. Finally, all references listed herein or other information statement filed with the application arc hereby appended and hereby incorporated by reference, however, as to each of the above, to the extent that such information or statements incorporated by reference might be considered inconsistent with the patenting of the various embodiments of invention(s) such statements are expressly not to be considered as made by the applicant(s).

[0076] REFERENCES TO BE INCORPORATED BY REFERENCE

[0077] US PATENTS

[0078] US PATENT PUBLICATIONS

[0079] FOREIGN PATENT DOCUMENTS

[0080] NON PATENT LITERATURE

[0081] Thus, the applicant(s) should be understood to have support to claim and make claims to embodiments including at least: i) each of the solar panel sun tracking devices as herein disclosed and described, ii) the related methods disclosed and described, iii) similar, equivalent, and even implicit variations of each of these devices and methods, iv) those alternative designs which accomplish each of the functions shown as arc disclosed and described, v) those alternative designs and methods which accomplish each of the functions shown as are implicit to accomplish that which is disclosed and described, vi) each feature, component, and step shown as separate and independent inventions, vii) the applications enhanced by the various systems or components disclosed, viii) the resulting products produced by such processes, methods, systems or components, ix) each system, method, and element shown or described as now applied to any specific field or devices mentioned, x) methods and apparatuses substantially as described hereinbefore and with reference to any of the accompanying examples, xi) an apparatus for performing the methods described herein comprising means for performing the steps, xii) the various combinations and permutations of each of the elements disclosed, xiii) each potentially dependent claim or concept as a dependency on each and every one of the independent claims or concepts presented, and xiv) all inventions described herein.

[0082] In addition and as to computer aspects and each aspect amenable to programming or other electronic automation, it should be understood that in characterizing these and all other aspects of the various embodiments of the invention(s) - whether characterized as a device, a capability, an element, or otherwise, because all of these can be implemented via software, hardware, or even firmware structures as set up for a general purpose computer, a programmed chip or chipset, an ASIC, application specific controller, subroutine, logic, or other known programmable or circuit specific structure - it should be understood that all such aspects are at least defined by structures including, as person of ordinary skill in the art would well recognize: hardware circuitry, firmware, programmed application specific components, and even a general purpose computer programmed to accomplish the identified aspect. For such items implemented by programmable features, the applicant(s) should be understood to have support to claim and make a statement of invention to at least: xv) processes performed with the aid of or on a computer, machine, or computing machine as described throughout the above discussion, xvi) a programmable apparatus as described throughout the above discussion, xvii) a computer readable memory encoded with data to direct a computer comprising means or elements which function as described throughout the above discussion, xviii) a computer, machine, or computing machine configured as herein disclosed and described, xix) individual or combined subroutines, processor logic, and / or programs as herein disclosed and described, xx) a carrier medium carrying computer readable code for control of a computer to carry out separately each and every individual and combined method described herein or in any claim, xxi) a computer program to perform separately each and every individual and combined method disclosed, xxii) a computer program containing all and each combination of means for performing each and every individual and combined step disclosed, xxiii) a storage medium storing each computer program disclosed, xxiv) a signal carrying a computer program disclosed, xxv) a processor executing instructions that act to achieve the steps and activities detailed, xxvi) circuitry configurations (including configurations of transistors, gates, and the like) that act to sequence and / or cause actions as detailed, xxvii) computer readable medium(s) storing instructions to execute the steps and cause activities detailed, xxviii) the related methods disclosed and described, xxix) similar’, equivalent, and even implicit variations of each of these systems and methods, xxx) those alternative designs which accomplish each of the functions shown as are disclosed and described, xxxi) those alternative designs and methods which accomplish each of the functions shown as are implicit to accomplish that which is disclosed and described, xxxii) each feature, component, and step shown as separate and independent inventions, and xxxiii) the various combinations of each of the above and of any aspect, all without limiting other aspects in addition.

[0083] With regard to claims whether now or later presented for examination, it should be understood that for practical reasons and so as to avoid great expansion of the examination burden, the applicant may at any time present only initial claims or perhaps only initial claims with only initial dependencies. The office and any third persons interested in potential scope of this or subsequent applications should understand that broader claims may be presented at a later date in this case, in a case claiming the benefit of this case, or in any continuation in spite of any preliminary amendments, other amendments, claim language, or arguments presented, thus throughout the pendency of any case there is no intention to disclaim or surrender any potential subject matter. It should be understood that if or when broader claims are presented, such may require that any relevant prior art that may have been considered at any prior time may need to be re-visited since it is possible that to the extent any amendments, claim language, or arguments presented in this or any subsequent application are considered as made to avoid such prior art, such reasons may be eliminated by later presented claims or the like. Both the examiner and any person otherwise interested in existing or later potential coverage, or considering if there has at any time been any possibility of an indication of disclaimer or surrender of potential coverage, should be aware that no such surrender or disclaimer is ever intended or ever exists in this or any subsequent application. Limitations such as arose in Hakim v. Cannon Avent Group, PLC, 479 F.3d 1313 (Fed. Cir 2007), or the like are expressly not intended in this or any subsequent related matter. In addition, support should be understood to exist to the degree required under new matter laws — including but not limited to European Patent Convention Article 123(2) and United States Patent Law 35 USC 132 or other such laws- to permit the addition of any of the various dependencies or other elements presented under one independent claim or concept as dependencies or elements under any other independent claim or concept. In drafting any claims at any time whether in this application or in any subsequent application, it should also be understood that the applicant has intended to capture as full and broad a scope of coverage as legally available. To the extent that insubstantial substitutes are made, to the extent that the applicant did not in fact draft any claim so as to literally encompass any particular embodiment, and to the extent otherwise applicable, the applicant should not be understood to have in any way intended to or actually relinquished such coverage as the applicant simply may not have been able to anticipate all eventualities; one skilled in the art, should not be reasonably expected to have drafted a claim that would have literally encompassed such alternative embodiments.

[0084] Further, if or when used, the use of the transitional phrases “comprising”, “including”, “containing”, “characterized by” and “having” are used to maintain the “open-end” claims herein, according to traditional claim interpretation including that discussed in MPEP § 2111.03. Thus, unless the context requires otherwise, it should be understood that the terms “comprise” or variations such as “comprises” or “comprising”, “include” or variations such as “includes” or “including”, “contain” or variations such as “contains” and “containing”, “characterized by” or variations such as “characterizing by”, “have” or variations such as “has” or “having”, are intended to imply the inclusion of a stated element or step or group of elements or steps but not the exclusion of any other element or step or group of elements or steps. Such terms should be interpreted in their most expansive form so as to afford the applicant the broadest coverage legally permissible. It should be understood that the term “a” used in the description and claims could mean “one” or could mean “at least one.” Use of “at least one” in the description and claims is not intended nor used in this disclosure to mean that other claims or descriptions not incorporating the “at least one” language cannot further include one or more like elements and the language “at least one” is not intended nor used to change “open-ended” claims, inherently including devices or methods having additional elements or steps apart from those claimed, into “closed-ended” claims wherein devices or methods having additional elements would not be covered by such claims. The use of the phrase, “or any other claim” is used to provide support for any claim to be dependent on any other claim, such as another dependent claim, another independent claim, a previously listed claim, a subsequently listed claim, and the like. As one clarifying example, if a claim were dependent “on claim 9 or any other claim” or the like, it could be re-drafted as dependent on claim 1, claim 8, or even claim 11 (if such were to exist) if desired and still fall with the disclosure. It should be understood that this phrase also provides support for any combination of elements in the claims and even incorporates any desired proper antecedent basis for certain claim combinations such as with combinations of method, apparatus, process, and the like claims.

[0085] With respect to the drawings, it should be understood that these present only initial views, mirror views such as left, right, top, bottom, front, and back should be understood as within the realm of this disclosure as may be appropriate for design or industrial design protections. Furthermore, any aspect and any portion of such drawings should be understood as potentially not within the scope of any then-made claim such as by then dashing any portion desired. And such drawings should be understood as including drawing elements such as rectangles, circles, ellipses, ovals, squares, and the like as particular side or other views as well understood from the existing drawings.

[0086] Also, with respect to design patent drawings, break in a line accompanied by a wavy line perpendicular to the broken line should be used to depict lines of varying length. The benefit of this is to claim the material regardless of varying length. Dashed lines can be used to disclaim parts of the design.

[0087] Finally, any claims set forth at any time are hereby incorporated by reference as part of this description of the various embodiments of the application, and the applicant expressly reserves the right to use all of or a portion of such incorporated content of such claims as additional description to support any of or all of the claims or any element or component thereof, and the applicant further expressly reserves the right to move any portion of or all of the incorporated content of such claims or any element or component thereof from the description into the claims or vice-versa as necessary to define the matter for which protection is sought by this application or by any subsequent continuation, division, or continuation-in-part application thereof, or to obtain any benefit of, reduction in fees pursuant to, or to comply with the patent laws, rules, or regulations of any country or treaty, and such content incorporated by reference shall survive during the entire pendency of this application including any subsequent continuation, division, or continuation-in- part application thereof or any reissue or extension thereon.

Claims

CLAIMSWhat is claimed is:

1. An autonomous sun tracking system comprising:- a self-contained, self-powered solar panel positioning device;- a solar panel mount of said self-contained, self-powered solar panel positioning device;- a pneumatically driven first axis positioner of said self-contained, self-powered solar panel positioning device to adjustably position said solar panel mount;- a second pneumatically driven axis positioner of said self-contained, self-powered solar panel positioning device to adjustably position said solar’ panel mount along a different axis from said first pneumatically driven axis positioner;- at least one electrically powered air pump of said self-contained, self-powered solar panel positioning device connected to said first pneumatically driven axis positioner and said second pneumatically driven axis positioner;- at least one air reservoir of said self-contained, self-powered solar- panel positioning device connected to said electrically powered air pump; and- an on-board control unit of said self-contained, self-powered solar panel positioning device to control said first pneumatically driven axis positioner, said second pneumatically driven axis positioner, said at least one electrically powered air pump, and said at least one air reservoir.

2. The system as described in claim 1 wherein said at least one electrically powered air pump comprises at least one micropump.

3. The system as described in claim 1 and further comprising a second electrically powered air pump of said self-contained, self-powered solar panel positioning device connected to said second pneumatically driven axis positioner.

4. The system as described in claim 3 and further comprising a second air reservoir of said self-contained, self-powered solar panel positioning device connected to said second electrically powered air pump.

5. The system as described in claim 1 wherein said at least one electrically powered air pump comprises a low voltage of up to about 24 volts.

6. The system as described in claim 1 wherein said at least one electrically powered air pump receives power from a photovoltaic solar panel mounted to said self-contained, self- powered solar panel positioning device.

7. The system as described in claim 1 wherein said first and second pneumatically driven axis positioners each comprise a compressor, a pneumatic cylinder and a dampener and are controlled by said on-board control unit.

8. The system as described in claim 1 wherein said at least one air reservoir comprises prefilled air reservoir.

9. The system as described in claim 1 wherein said at least one air reservoir comprises a soft air reservoir.

10. The system as described in claim 1 wherein said self-contained, self-powered solar panel positioning device comprises a universal surface mount.

11. The system as described in claim 1 and further comprising a force dampener.

12. A method for autonomously tracking the sun comprising steps of:- attaching a photovoltaic solar panel to a solar panel mount of a self-contained, self- powered solar panel positioning device;- moving said photovoltaic solar panel about a first axis using a first pneumatically driven axis positioner of said self-contained, self-powered solar panel positioning device;- moving said photovoltaic solar panel about a second axis using a second pneumatically driven axis position of said self-contained, self-powered solar panel positioning device;- connecting at least one electrically powered air pump fueled by an air reservoir to said first pneumatically driven axis positioner and said second pneumatically driven axis positioner; and- on-board controlling movement of said photovoltaic solar panel along said first axis and said second axis.

13. The method as described in claim 12 wherein said step of connecting at least one electrically powered air pump fueled by an air reservoir to said first pneumatically driven axis positioner and said second pneumatically driven axis positioner comprises a step of connecting at least one electrically powered micropump fueled by an air reservoir to said first pneumatically driven axis positioner and said second pneumatically driven axis positioner.

14. The method as described in claim 12 wherein said step of connecting at least one electrically powered air pump fueled by an air reservoir to said first pneumatically driven axis positioner and said second pneumatically driven axis positioner comprises a step of connecting a first electrically powered air pump fueled by an air reservoir to said first pneumatically driven axis positioner and a second electrically powered air pump fueled by said air reservoir to said second pneumatically driven axis positioner.

15. The method as described in claim 14 and further comprising a step of providing a second air reservoir connected to said second electrically powered air pump.

16. The method as described in claim 12 wherein said step of connecting at least one electrically powered air pump fueled by an air reservoir to said first pneumatically driven axis positioner and said second pneumatically driven axis positioner comprises a step of providing a low voltage air pump using up to about 24 volts.

17. The method as described in claim 12 and further comprising a step of powering said at least one electrically powered air pump from said attached photovoltaic solar panel.

18. The method as described in claim 12 wherein said first and second pneumatically driven axis positioners each comprise a compressor, a pneumatic cylinder and a dampener, and are controlled by an on-board control unit.

19. The method as described in claim 12 wherein said air reservoir comprises pre-filled air reservoir.

20. The method as described in claim 12 and further comprising a step of universally mounting said self-contained, self-powered solar panel positioning device to any foundation.

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