A solar panel mounting system

Abstract

The system features a vertical support with rotatable axis and an upper support for solar panels. A free hinge allows passive tilt, with the hinge axis placed windward so rear winds induce feathering to a low angle. A lower limiter sets a rest tilt. An azimuth drive orients panels within a wind-aligned cone using forecasts and thresholds. Bracing enhances stiffness without restricting tilt. This design maximizes energy production under normal conditions while ensuring stability during high winds.

Description

[0001] A SOLAR PANEL MOUNTING SYSTEM

[0002] FIELD OF THE INVENTION

[0003] The disclosure relates to wind-robust mounting of photovoltaic (PV) modules on structures that rotate about a generally vertical axis for azimuthal positioning, while allowing rotation of a panel or panel carrier about a substantially horizontal axis under wind.

[0004] BACKGROUND

[0005] Photovoltaic panels convert sunlight to electrical power using semiconductor cells laminated into a rigid module. A module mounts to a frame or carrier and attaches to a support such as a mast, post, or rack. Modules connect in strings that feed an inverter or DC bus. Energy yield depends on orientation, shading, and soiling. Mounts define azimuth about a vertical axis and tilt about a horizontal axis, which may be fixed or allowed to move. Vertical module orientation is used to save ground area, shed snow, enable bifacial harvest, and satisfy site constraints. Wind imposes drag, lift, and torsion that rise with exposed area and attack angle, so designers balance stiffness with controlled motion for safety and durability. Hinge placement, rotation limits, and bracing shape the kinematics and the load paths.

[0006] Several references describe vertical or near-vertical PV mounts in which a panel is allowed to swing in response to wind so that aerodynamic loads are reduced. For example, WO 2023 / 214396 (and its U.S. counterpart US 2025 / 0112586 Al, later issuing as US 12,375,026 B2) teaches a vertically mounted module supported between two posts by a pair of hinges on opposite sides of the module. Under wind, the panel rotates to a position of lower resistance, the objective being to reduce drag; the figures and text emphasize the free rotation of the module between side hinges to shed load. The documents do not disclose a lower production rest angle with a defined limiter, do not address placing a horizontal hinge windward of an aerodynamic center, and do not teach a bracing scheme tied to a rotating mast that increases stiffness in a selected plane while leaving a single tilt axis free. In practice, the large swing envelope needed by the side-hinged panel restricts the use of structural bracing between a mast and the carrier, because such braces would obstruct the travel path or impose a second kinematic constraint that defeats free swing.

[0007] A related strand of "swinging panel" art mounts panels from a horizontal support so they hang and rotate under gravity / wind. US 2010 / 0077592 Al discloses panels pivotally coupled to a horizontal member, optionally with counterweights to bias tilt; the panels are "free to rotate about the rigid support." These arrangements aim to relieve wind loads by allowing uncontrolled rotation about the suspension axis. They do not address stable production posture in weak winds, nor do they provide a controlled strong-wind posture in which the same side of the panel consistently faces the wind. As with the side-hinge vertical mounts, introducing bracing between a mast and a carrier would interfere with the unconstrained swing that these designs rely on, and the references do not provide a bracing concept that rotates with the mast while preserving a single, defined tilt axis.

[0008] Other works orient panel frames with the wind using vane surfaces or auxiliary devices. EP 2366965 Al describes a tracker frame fitted with a wind vane sized to overcome frictional and gravitational moments so that the frame turns into the wind and thereby reduces bending moments. The vane may also function as a counterweight. The reference concerns orienting a frame with respect to wind to lower structural moments; it does not address a horizontal tilt axis placed windward of an aerodynamic center to obtain passive feathering of a panel, does not define asymmetric rotation limits for two wind regimes (weak and strong), and does not contemplate bracing that ties a rotating mast to a panel carrier while leaving a single tilt axis free for wind-response.

[0009] The wind response of plate-like structures, including PV modules, is known to include unfavorable behaviors when the flow alternately passes above and below a plate or when a plate is held near a low-damping attitude. Recent tracker-focused studies discuss torsional instabilities and sensitivity to incident flow angle and axis placement. While much of this literature centers on horizontal single-axis trackers, the underlying aerodynamic mechanisms— alternation of flow paths and low restoring stiffness near certain attitudes— are generic to flat plates and inform the need to avoid side-wind exposure and to maintain a repeatable, bounded posture in strong winds.

[0010] Practical limitations in the closest vertical / swinging art

[0011] Across the vertical, free-swinging families cited above, several practical limitations persist:

[0012] Lack of a defined weak-wind production posture. The side-hinge and hanging designs rely on free motion to shed load and do not define a repeatable rest tilt for everyday operation that avoids steep or vertical droop while supporting power production.

[0013] Inability to combine with structural bracing. Because these systems depend on large, unobstructed swing about their hinges, adding braces between a mast and a carrier would either block the travel path or introduce a second constraint that alters the kinematics. The references do not teach mast-to-carrier bracing that rotates with the mast while preserving a single, free tilt axis.

[0014] Ambiguous strong-wind behavior. Free-swinging mounts may reduce average drag but do not ensure that one side of the panel consistently faces the wind in strong events, leaving the system exposed to alternating "above / below" flow and associated unsteady loads. The references do not provide asymmetric rotation limits about a horizontal tilt axis that create distinct, stable regimes for weak and strong winds. Wind direction handling. The cited art does not disclose an azimuthal control approach that maintains the panel's rear face within a bounded cone about a measured or calculated wind direction, with practical weighting of forecast and measured inputs to anticipate direction changes while avoiding side-wind headings.

[0015] There remains a need for a vertical-axis PV mounting architecture that (i) provides a defined, repeatable production rest tilt in weak and normal winds; (ii) attains a stable strong-wind posture without locking the tilt axis, so the same side of the panel continues to face the wind and rotation is bounded; (iii) allows directional bracing to a rotating mast to increase stiffness in a selected plane without tying to ground or introducing a second locked axis that would interfere with wind-response; and (iv) integrates wind-aware azimuth orientation to avoid side-wind exposure while respecting the above mechanical behaviors. The Detailed Description addresses these needs with specific structures and control approaches.

[0016] SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

[0017] In one aspect of the present invention, there is provided a solar panel mounting system comprising a vertical support rotatable about a substantially vertical axis, an upper support carried by the vertical support and a lower support, and at least one solar panel attached directly or indirectly to the vertical support. The solar panel is mounted for rotation around a substantially horizontal hinge axis without powered actuation about the hinge axis, with rotation toward uplift being substantially unimpeded. The hinge axis is positioned windward of an aerodynamic center of the panel such that wind incident on a rear face of the panel tends to rotate the panel upward. A lower rotation limiter establishes a repeatable rest tilt of the panel under weak and normal winds. An azimuth drive and a controller are configured, during high wind operation, to orient the vertical support so that the rear face of the panel is maintained within a bounded heading cone about a measured or calculated wind direction. A bracing assembly connects between the upper support and the vertical support, the bracing assembly rotating with the vertical support and increasing stiffness in a selected plane without constraining rotation about the hinge axis, wherein no fixed tie connects the bracing assembly to a non-rotating ground member.

[0018] In another aspect of the present invention, a stabilizing mechanism is disposed adjacent the hinge axis and is configured to condition airflow in a region between the panel and the vertical support so as to limit separated flow during uplift, thereby establishing a stable, one-sided flow posture about the panel and suppressing resonance at elevated wind speeds while the panel retains a single, passively responsive tilt axis.

[0019] In another aspect of the present invention, the panel resides at the rest tilt against the lower rotation limiter during more than 98% of instances when solar irradiance exceeds 100 W / m2, and in winds above about 20 m / s the panel is rotated upward under aerodynamic moment about the hinge axis.

[0020] In another aspect of the present invention, the hinge axis is located between -5% and +10% of chord measured from the windward long edge.

[0021] In another aspect of the present invention, the stabilizing mechanism comprises a panel stabilizer configured to limit a gap between the panel and the vertical support adjacent the hinge axis to not more than 25 mm, thereby reducing separated flow and reducing a risk of flutter or other wind- induced vibration.

[0022] In another aspect of the present invention, the panel stabilizer is a hinge-mounted spacing element carried by the upper support or by the connection members and arranged so that the gap remains within said limit throughout uplift rotation.

[0023] In another aspect of the present invention, the panel stabilizer comprises a shroud or filler fixed adjacent the vertical support that at least partially bridges the gap while clearing a sweep of the panel between the lower rotation limiter and any upper rotation limiter.

[0024] In another aspect of the present invention, the stabilizing mechanism comprises an airflow-stabilizing hinge formed by the connection members and adjacent structures such that, over a prescribed range of uplift rotation, the gap immediately adjacent the hinge axis is not greater than 25 mm, thereby promoting a stable high-wind posture while the panel is mounted for rotation without powered actuation.

[0025] In another aspect of the present invention, a preferred value of the gap in the hinge region is not greater than 15 mm.

[0026] In another aspect of the present invention, the system further comprises an upper rotation limiter configured to arrest uplift at a cap angle close to horizontal and to permit free return toward the rest tilt.

[0027] In another aspect of the present invention, the bounded heading cone has a half angle no greater than 40 degrees. In another aspect of the present invention, the upper support carries a plurality of panels and each panel is mounted by respective connection members that define a respective substantially horizontal hinge axis, such that the panels rotate independently of one another.

[0028] In another aspect of the present invention, the controller determines the azimuth orientation within the bounded heading cone from a calculated wind direction given by a weighted combination of a locally measured wind direction and a forecast wind direction, with the forecast weight increasing relative to the measured weight when forecast wind speed exceeds measured wind speed.

[0029] In another aspect of the present invention, entry into and exit from high-wind operation are governed by comparison of a forecast-weighted wind speed signal to a stow threshold and to an exit threshold lower than the stow threshold.

[0030] In another aspect of the present invention, the controller temporarily narrows the half angle of the bounded heading cone during detected gusts and restores said half angle when conditions stabilize.

[0031] In another aspect of the present invention, the controller applies deliberate group offsets so that different structures adopt different azimuths within the bounded heading cone.

[0032] In another aspect of the present invention, the controller limits an azimuth slew rate while maintaining orientation within the bounded heading cone.

[0033] In another aspect of the present invention, the panel assembly mounted to the hinge axis has an areal mass density not greater than 10 kg per square metre, thereby reducing uplift onset wind speed for a given hinge placement and friction band.

[0034] In another aspect of the present invention, the system further comprises elastomeric bumpers on the rotation limiter at a rest contact region engaged by the panel at the rest tilt.

[0035] In another aspect of the present invention, the system further comprises a hinge line friction element that provides distributed friction about the hinge axis to attenuate small oscillations without materially impeding uplift.

[0036] In another aspect of the present invention, the system further comprises a counterweight arranged at a moment arm with respect to the hinge axis to counteract a portion of gravitational return torque, and / or a spring biasing member arranged to provide an elastic torque opposing gravity over a selected range of angles about the hinge axis.

[0037] In another aspect of the present invention, the bracing assembly comprises a mast clamp on the vertical support, an upper support bracket on the upper support, and an in-line tensioner, and is arranged to clear a swept path of the panel between the rest tilt and uplift limits. In another aspect of the present invention, the bracing assembly comprises two braces forming a V shape between spaced locations on the upper support and vertically spaced locations on the vertical support.

[0038] In another aspect of the present invention, the upper support carries a plurality of panels and at least two of the panels are mounted by respective connection members that define respective substantially horizontal hinge axes, such that the panels rotate independently of one another, thereby reducing lateral skew under asymmetric gusts and facilitating uplift of each panel in elevated winds.

[0039] In another aspect of the present invention, each of said panels has a respective lower rotation limiter and optionally a respective upper rotation limiter, the limiters being configurable to set different rest tilts and / or uplift caps across the span to reduce span-wise coherence.

[0040] In another aspect of the present invention, the upper support carries a plurality of panels and a differential limiter set is provided in which outer panels have at least one of: (i) a steeper rest tilt set by the lower rotation limiter and (ii) a lower uplift limit established by an upper rotation limiter, relative to interior panels, to produce a dihedral across a span.

[0041] In another aspect of the present invention, the lower rotation limiter comprises an adjustable tensile stop extending between the upper support or a panel carrier and the vertical support.

[0042] In another aspect of the present invention, the lower rotation limiter comprises a rigid stop bar on the rotation limiter.

[0043] In another aspect of the present invention, the lower rotation limiter is integrated as a lower stop lug on the upper support.

[0044] In another aspect of the present invention, the vertical support rotates relative to a ground member via bearings arranged between an outer rotatable sleeve and an inner fixed post.

[0045] In another aspect of the present invention, the vertical support rotates relative to a ground member via bearings arranged between an inner rotatable member and an outer fixed member.

[0046] In another aspect of the present invention, the system is configured such that, when the rear face of the panel is maintained within the bounded heading cone and the stabilizing mechanism is operative, a stable airflow around the panel is maintained so as to avoid resonance at wind speeds exceeding 30 m / s.

[0047] BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS FIG. 1 is a perspective view of a solar panel mounting system showing a rotatable vertical support, an upper support, a lower support, and a panel in the rest position.

[0048] FIG. 2 is a side elevation of the system in the rest position with the panel held at a repeatable production tilt by a lower rotation limiter.

[0049] FIGS. 3A and 3B are side views showing uplift of the panel under wind acting on the rear surface, with free rotation about a horizontal hinge and bounded by an upper rotation limiter.

[0050] FIGS. 4A and 4B are comparative side views showing uplift without an upper rotation limiter, illustrating alternating flow conditions at near-horizontal postures.

[0051] FIG. 5 is a perspective view of a system with a multipanel carrier, showing outer panels set with differential rest and uplift limits to create a mild dihedral across the span.

[0052] FIGS. 6A to 6D are diagrams showing the effect of hinge placement near mid-chord, illustrating unstable outcomes under strong wind.

[0053] FIGS. 7A to 7D are diagrams showing hinge placement windward of the aerodynamic center, illustrating stable feathering and a fixated high-wind posture.

[0054] FIG. 8 is a schematic plan view showing multiple systems oriented so that the rear surfaces of panels face into the wind within a bounded heading cone, with deliberate group offsets.

[0055] FIG. 9A is a diagram showing an upper rotation limiter realized as a one-way abutment.

[0056] FIG. 9B is a diagram showing an upper rotation limiter realized as a slack take-up tether.

[0057] FIG. 9C is a diagram showing an upper rotation limiter realized as a ratcheting collar.

[0058] FIGS. 10A to 10C are diagrams of lower rotation limiter realizations: an adjustable stop wire, a rigid stop bar with an energy-absorbing insert, and an integrated lower stop lug.

[0059] FIG. 11 is a perspective view of a brace assembly connected between the upper support and the rotating mast, showing a mast clamp, an upper support bracket, and an in-line tensioner.

[0060] FIGS. 12A and 12B are diagrams showing optional biasing elements: a counterweight and a spring arranged to counteract gravitational return torque.

[0061] FIG. 13A is a diagram showing a mast arrangement with an outer rotatable sleeve turning around a fixed inner post.

[0062] FIG. 13B is a diagram showing a mast arrangement with an inner rotating member turning within an outer fixed post. FIG. 1 is a perspective view of a solar panel mounting system showing a rotatable vertical support, an upper support, a lower support, and a panel in the rest position.

[0063] FIG. 2 is a side elevation of the system in the rest position with the panel held at a repeatable production tilt by a lower rotation limiter.

[0064] FIGS. 3A and 3B are side views showing uplift of the panel under wind acting on the rear surface, with free rotation about a horizontal hinge and bounded by an upper rotation limiter.

[0065] FIGS. 4A and 4B are comparative side views showing uplift without an upper rotation limiter, illustrating alternating flow conditions at near-horizontal postures.

[0066] FIG. 5 is a perspective view of a system with a multipanel carrier, showing outer panels set with differential rest and uplift limits to create a mild dihedral across the span.

[0067] FIGS. 6A to 6D are diagrams showing the effect of hinge placement near mid-chord, illustrating unstable outcomes under strong wind.

[0068] FIGS. 7A to 7C are diagrams showing hinge placement windward of the aerodynamic center, illustrating stable feathering and a fixated high-wind posture.

[0069] FIG. 8 is a schematic plan view showing multiple systems oriented so that the rear surfaces of panels face into the wind within a bounded heading cone, with deliberate group offsets.

[0070] FIG. 9A is a diagram showing an upper rotation limiter realized as a one-way abutment.

[0071] FIG. 9B is a diagram showing an upper rotation limiter realized as a slack take-up tether.

[0072] FIG. 9C is a diagram showing an upper rotation limiter realized as a ratcheting collar.

[0073] FIGS. 10A to 10C are diagrams of lower rotation limiter realizations: an adjustable stop wire, a rigid stop bar with an energy-absorbing insert, and an integrated lower stop lug.

[0074] FIG. 11 is a perspective view of a brace assembly connected between the upper support and the rotating mast, showing a mast clamp, an upper support bracket, and an in-line tensioner.

[0075] FIGS. 12A and 12B are diagrams showing optional biasing elements: a counterweight and a spring arranged to counteract gravitational return torque.

[0076] FIG. 13A is a diagram showing a mast arrangement with an outer rotatable sleeve turning around a fixed inner post.

[0077] FIG. 13B is a diagram showing a mast arrangement with an inner rotating member turning within an outer fixed post. FIG. 14 is a close-up of the rest contact showing elastomeric bumpers and optional friction or viscous damping at the hinge.

[0078] FIGS. 15A and 15B are diagrams showing forecast-weighted wind control, including stow and exit thresholds with hysteresis.

[0079] FIG. 16A is a schematic showing a control flow for a cone of acceptance policy.

[0080] FIG. 16B is a schematic showing grouped panel headings within a cone of acceptance.

[0081] FIG. 17 is a schematic view of the hinge region showing a small panel-to-mast gap maintained across uplift rotation.

[0082] FIGS. 18 to 24 are examples of alternative solar panel mounting system configurations with different combinations of supports, braces, and anchors.

[0083] DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PRESENT INVENTION

[0084] As used herein, the singular forms "a," "an," and "the" include the plural unless the context clearly dictates otherwise. The term "comprising" is openended and does not exclude additional elements or steps not recited. The terms "including," "having," and "containing" are used as nonlimiting synonyms for "comprising." Ordinal terms such as "first," "second," and "third" distinguish items or steps but do not require a particular order unless expressly stated. "Based on" means "based at least in part on." "Configured to," "operative to," and "adapted to" indicate structural or functional capability and do not require continuous operation or any specific control scheme unless expressly stated. Unless otherwise indicated, "about" and "approximately" encompass manufacturing and measurement toleranc es and, when applied to a numerical value, include ±10% of that value or a range recognized as reasonable for the context.

[0085] "Vertical," "horizontal," "upper," "lower," "front," "rear," "windward," and "leeward" refer to orientations and directions with respect to the installed state of the structure and the relevant flow direction, and are used for convenience rather than as absolute limitations. A "substantially vertical axis" denotes an axis within a practical tolerance of vertical sufficient to perform the functions described (e.g., within several degrees, unless otherwise specified). A "substantially horizontal axis" denotes an axis that is predominantly horizontal within similar practical tolerances. "Solar panel," "panel," or "module" (500) denotes any photovoltaic module or equivalent solar energy conversion device, rigid or semirigid, with a front or lightreceiving side (500A) and a rear side (500B). References to "panel" may encompass a carrier assembly holding multiple modules unless the context distinguishes individual modules.

[0086] "Solar panel mounting system" (100) denotes an assembly that supports one or more panels for outdoor use, including but not limited to a vertical support (102), an upper support (105, and, , a Rotation limiter (104), along with any associated hinges, limiters, bracing, bearings, actuators, and control components disclosed herein.

[0087] "Airflowstabilizing hinge". As used herein, "Airflowstabilizing hinge" denotes a hinge assembly (200) in which: (i) the substantially horizontal hinge axis (120) is positioned at a chordwise location xhnot more than about 10% of panel chord c inboard of the windward long edge (xh< +0.10 c; in some embodiments -0.05 c <xh< +0.10 c), and (ii) over the prescribed range of uplift rotation used in high-wind operation, the minimum normal gap g between the panel (500) and the rotatable vertical support (102) immediately adjacent the hinge axis (120) does not exceed about 25 mm (preferably < 15 mm). The geometry conditions local flow in the mast-panel slot, reduces separated-flow turbulence in the hinge region, and promotes a stable, repeatable near-horizontal posture in strong winds while the panel remains mounted for rotation without powered actuation about axis (120). "Vertical support" (102) denotes a rotatable mast, sleeve, shaft, or equivalent structure that rotates about a substantially vertical axis. The ground member (103) denotes a fixed foundation interface, post, pile, ground screw, or equivalent, which may cooperate with bearings (130) to support rotation of the vertical support (102).

[0088] "Upper support" (105) denotes a structural member that carries the panel(s) at or near the hinge axis (120). Rotation limiter (104) denotes any structure impeding rotation of the panel(s) beyond a predefined angle, such as a structural member positioned to provide rest contact and / or to carry bumpers (110) or stop features for the rest tilt.

[0089] "Connection members" (200) denote one or more hinge elements— e.g., pins, clevises, trunnions, bushings, bearings, flexural pivots, or their equivalents— that define a substantially horizontal hinge axis (120) about which the panel (500) tilts relative to the upper support (105). Unless expressly locked, rotation about the hinge axis (120) is without powered actuation, and "with rotation toward uplift being substantially unimpeded" means the connection members and any associated friction or damping elements do not materially resist panel rotation in the uplift direction under design wind conditions. The phrase "the panel (500) being attached to the upper support (105) solely by the connection members (200) defining the hinge axis (120) for tilt" indicates that, with respect to tilt about the horizontal axis, the connection members (200) provide the sole rotational coupling that constrains tilt kinematics. This does not preclude the presence of wiring, guards, bumpers, limiters, or bracing elements that do not introduce a second, fixed tilt axis at the panel.

[0090] "Aerodynamic center" (AC) of a panel assembly denotes the limiting location of the resultant aerodynamic force (effective center of pressure) as the effective angle between the panel plane and the oncoming wind approaches 0°. For thin, plate-like panels at small angles, the AC lies near one-quarter of the chord c measured from the windward long edge (i.e., ~ 0.25 c). References herein to the hinge axis being "windward of the aerodynamic center" therefore mean a location forward (upwind) of approximately 0.25 c when the device is in the posture and wind direction under consideration (e.g., "from-behind" storm orientation).

[0091] "Chord" (c) denotes the straight-line distance (section depth) across the panel measured normal to the hinge axis (120), from the windward long edge to the opposite long edge. Chordwise locations are expressed as a normalized fraction x / c, with x = 0% at the windward long edge and x = 100% at the opposite edge. Negative values (e.g., -5%) indicate a location just outboard of the windward edge (for example, a hinge bracket beyond the panel edge); positive values (e.g., +10%) indicate a location inboard from that edge. "Windward long edge" denotes the long edge that is upstream for the wind orientation being discussed. "Clearance" (g) denotes the minimum normal distance between the panel and the rotatable vertical support (102) in the region adjacent the hinge axis (120). In preferred embodiments g < 20 mm to reduce slot turbulence; other embodiments may use larger clearances as needed for structural or manufacturing constraints.

[0092] Gap (g). "Gap" denotes the minimum normal distance between the panel (500) and the rotatable vertical support (102) in the region adjacent the hinge axis (120) over the relevant range of uplift rotation.

[0093] Solar panel stabilizer (230). "Solar panel stabilizer" denotes a structure positioned adjacent the hinge axis (120) and configured to limit the gap (g) between the panel (500) and the rotatable vertical support (102) to a selected maximum and to condition local flow, thereby reducing separated-flow development in the gap region and reducing a risk of flutter or other wind-induced vibration.

[0094] Airflow-stabilizing hinge. "Airflow-stabilizing hinge" denotes a hinge assembly (200) configured such that, over a prescribed range of uplift rotation, the gap (g) between the panel (500) and the rotatable vertical support (102) immediately adjacent the hinge axis (120) is not greater than 25 mm, thereby promoting a stable high-wind posture while the panel remains mounted for rotation without powered actuation.

[0095] "Lower rotation limiter" (210) denotes any mechanism that establishes a repeatable rest tilt (production tilt) for the panel in weak and normal winds and bounds downward rotation. Nonlimiting examples include an adjustable tensile stop (116), a rigid stop bar (112) optionally with an energyabsorbing insert (114), and an integrated lowerstop lug (211) associated with the upper support (105). "Rest tilt" denotes the nominal inclination at which the panel resides in weak and normal winds.

[0096] "Upper rotation limiter" (212) denotes any mechanism that limits upward rotation (uplift) to a cap angle short of a fully horizontal posture and allows return toward the rest tilt. Nonlimiting examples include a oneway abutment (118), a slack takeup tether (119), and a ratcheting collar (121). "Cap angle" denotes the maximum uplifted inclination defined by the upper rotation limiter (212).

[0097] "Bracing assembly" (260) denotes one or more structural members— such as cross braces or guy wires— connected between the upper support (105) (or a rigid member carried thereby) and the rotatable vertical support (102), arranged so the bracing rotates with the vertical support about the vertical axis and does not attach to a nonrotating ground member (103). Subcomponents may include a mast clamp (262), an uppersupport bracket (264), and an inline tensioner (266). The bracing assembly increases stiffness in a selected plane without adding a second locked tilt axis at the panel and is arranged to clear the swept path of the panel between its limits.

[0098] "Solar panel stabilizer (230)" or "fairing" denotes any structure disposed adjacent the hinge axis (120) or vertical support (102) that shapes or conditions airflow in the region between the panel (500) and the vertical support (102), which may include partially blocking or streamlining a gap to reduce separation, recirculation, or turbulence.

[0099] "Friction element" (214) denotes a device providing distributed friction about the hinge axis (120) to attenuate small oscillations without materially impeding uplift. "Viscous damper" (219) denotes a device that dissipates energy during return toward the rest tilt while substantially not resisting uplift. "Counterweight" (216) and "spring biasing member" (218) denote elements arranged to counteract a portion of gravitational return torque over a selected range of motion, thereby moderating descent after wind reduction; they are not used to pull the panel downward in concert with gravity.

[0100] "Dihedral" (125) denotes a mild differential in limiter settings or geometry across a multipanel carrier such that outer panels have, relative to interior panels, a steeper rest tilt and / or a lower uplift limit. "Bearings" (130) denote any bearing arrangement enabling rotation between the vertical support

[0101] (102) and the ground member (103), including outersleeveoninnerpost and innerrotorinoutersleeve variants.

[0102] "Azimuth drive" (300) denotes any actuator, motor, gearbox, or equivalent configured to rotate the vertical support (102) about the vertical axis. "Controller" (142) denotes any electronic control unit, processor, microcontroller, programmable logic device, or distributed control system configured with hardware and / or software to perform the control functions described.

[0103] "Measured wind direction" (e.g., 144D) denotes an angle provided by a local sensor indicative of instantaneous wind direction. "Measured wind speed" (e.g., 144S) denotes a magnitude provided by a local sensor indicative of instantaneous wind speed. "Forecast wind direction" and "forecast wind speed" denote predictions provided via a forecast interface (170).

[0104] "Calculated wind direction" denotes a direction derived by the controller (142) based on a combination of measured and forecast wind direction, with relative weights that may vary as a function of measured and forecast wind speed (e.g., the forecast component weight may increase when forecast wind speed exceeds measured wind speed).

[0105] "Bounded heading cone" (176) denotes a range of azimuthal headings about a measured or calculated wind direction within which the rear face (500B) of the panel is maintained during highwind operation. "Cone halfangle" denotes the angular magnitude from the centerline of the cone to either bound; the controller may vary this halfangle (e.g., narrowing during gusts).

[0106] "Stow threshold" (174) denotes a windspeed criterion— optionally forecastweighted— used to enter highwind operation. "Exit threshold" (174H) denotes a lower windspeed criterion used to return from highwind operation, thereby providing hysteresis to avoid repeated toggling.

[0107] "Group offsets" (178R) denote deliberate differences in azimuthal heading applied among different structures while each remains within its respective bounded heading cone (176), to reduce the likelihood of array scale resonance.

[0108] "Weak and normal winds" denote wind conditions under which the panel is intended to remain at the rest tilt against the lower rotation limiter (210). "Elevated winds" denote wind conditions sufficient to induce uplift rotation about the hinge axis (120). "Highwind operation" denotes the operational state entered when a stow threshold is met such that the controller maintains the azimuth within the bounded heading cone (176) and the panel is placed in a stable uplift posture (e.g., nearedge hinge equilibrium and / or arrested by the upper rotation limiter (212)). "Uplift" denotes rotation of the panel about the hinge axis (120) in response to wind incident on the rear face (500B) producing an upward moment. "Side attack" denotes wind approaching substantially from a lateral side of the panel edge, a condition associated with alternating flow above and below the panel; maintaining the rear face within the bounded heading cone (176) avoids side attack in high winds.

[0109] Where specific values are provided (e.g., hinge placement within about 10% of chord from a windward edge, gap not greater than about 15-25 mm, cone halfangle of about 15 degrees), such values are illustrative and nonlimiting. Other values that achieve the described functional effects are within the scope of the disclosure.

[0110] Preferred hinge-axis window: xhG [-0.05 c, +0.10 c] measured from the windward long edge; negative values denote a hinge bracket slightly outboard of the panel edge.

[0111] Preferred panel-to-mast clearance in the hinge region: g < 15 mm to reduce turbulence; optional fairing elements may be used adjacent to the rotatable support (102) to condition the local flow.

[0112] Except where expressly stated, features described in connection with any embodiment may be combined with features of any other embodiment where such combination is technologically feasible. The absence of a feature from a particular claim does not imply that feature is not present in other claimed embodiments.

[0113] Master List of Reference Numerals

[0114] 100 — solar panel mounting / tracking system (single-post "tree")

[0115] 102 — rotatable vertical support member (outer sleeve or inner shaft)

[0116] 103 — ground member / fixed post / foundation interface

[0117] 104 — rotation limiter

[0118] 105 — upper solar panel support member (upper rail or cross-arm; hinge carrier)

[0119] 110 — damping / energy-absorbing member at rest contact (e.g., elastomer or spring)

[0120] 112 — lower abutment / stop bar

[0121] 113 — integrated lower blocking stop in the upper support (generic concept)

[0122] 114 — shock-absorbing insert on abutment / stop

[0123] 116 — tensile stop wire / tether for lower limit

[0124] 118 — one-way abutment component for upper limit 119 — slack take-up upper tether variant

[0125] 120 — horizontal hinge axis (off-center windward of the aerodynamic center)

[0126] 121 — ratcheting collar upper-limit variant

[0127] 125 — differential limiter set (dihedral) across a multi-panel carrier

[0128] 130 — bearing arrangement between 102 and 103

[0129] 142 — controller / logic unit

[0130] 144 — wind sensor(s) (see 144D direction, 144S speed)

[0131] 144D — wind direction sensor

[0132] 144S — wind speed sensor

[0133] 200 — connection member(s) (hinge elements) between panel and support

[0134] 210 — lower rotation limiter (collective term for 112 / 113 / 116 / 211 variants)

[0135] 212 — upper rotation limiter (collective term for 118 / 119 / 121 variants)

[0136] 214 — hinge friction element (attenuates small oscillations)

[0137] 216 — counterweight arranged to counteract gravitational return torque

[0138] 218 — spring biasing member arranged to counteract gravitational return torque

[0139] 219 — viscous damper acting about the horizontal hinge axis

[0140] 230 — solar panel stabilizer adjacent hinge axis

[0141] 262 — mast clamp for attaching brace 260 to rotating member 102

[0142] 264 — upper-support bracket for attaching brace 260 to member 105

[0143] 266 — in-line tensioner (turnbuckle) for brace 260

[0144] 300 — motor / actuator for azimuthal rotation about the vertical axis

[0145] 500 — solar panel (module)

[0146] 500A — front (cell side) of panel

[0147] 500B — rear (backsheet side) of panel

[0148] The present invention will now be described with reference to the overall architecture. According to one aspect of the present invention, a solar panel mounting system 100 comprises a rotatable vertical support member 102 arranged with respect to a ground member or foundation interface 103, an upper solar panel support member 105, a rotation limiter 104, and at least one solar panel 500 mounted to the upper support member 105 by one or more connection members 200 that define a substantially horizontal hinge axis 120. In representative embodiments, the vertical support 102 rotates about a mostly vertical axis to set azimuth. The panel 500 rotates about the horizontal axis 120 in response to wind. The arrangement is configured to be stable in two regimes: in weak and normal winds the panel rests at a predetermined production tilt defined by a lower rotation limiter 210; in strong winds the panel remains attached by a single, freely rotatable horizontal axis but the overall system attains a stable, close to horizontal posture by design, as further described below.

[0149] As shown schematically in FIG. 1, the vertical support 102 carries the upper support 105 and rotation limiter 104. The connection members 200 locate the hinge axis 120 deliberately windward of the aerodynamic center of the panel assembly so that wind acting from the rear 500B produces an upward feathering moment. Bearings may be disposed between 102 and 103 to reduce friction in azimuthal rotation. One or more damping or energy absorbing members 110 may be positioned at contact regions on 104 to cushion return into the rest position. Optional directional bracing, described further below, increases stiffness in a chosen plane while remaining attached to rotating members. Azimuth is driven by motor 300 under controller 142, which receives wind direction and speed from sensors 144 to set wind-aware headings.

[0150] FIG. 2 shows a side elevation of mounting system in the rest position. Under weak to normal winds the panel 500 sits at a repeatable production tilt set by a lower rotation limiter 210. The hinge remains free about a horizontal axis 120 defined by connection members 200, which is offset toward the windward side, yet in this regime the panel does not rotate upward. The lower limiter 210 can be implemented as an adjustable stop wire 116 between the upper support 105 and the rotatable vertical support member 102, as a rigid stop bar 112 with an optional shock-absorbing insert 114, or as an integrated lower stop lug 211 formed on the upper support 105, as shown in FIG. 10A-C. At the rest position the panel contacts the dampening members 110 on the rotation limiter 104, and where present the insert 114 cushions engagement with the rigid stop 112. This arrangement holds the panel off shallow angles and avoids a steep or vertical droop while defining the fixed production tilt and bounding return travel to reduce recontact speed and impact.

[0151] As shown in FIGs. 3A and 3B, wind acts on the rear surface 500B and lifts panel 500 partway about the horizontal hinge axis 120 defined by connection members 200. The panel rotates freely toward a lower-drag posture. A clear gap remains to the upper rotation limiter 212, which is inactive in this state. The rotation limiter 104 with dampening members 110 is open and not in contact. Optional hinge damping or friction may be implemented to moderate the snap-up motion of the panel 500 under wind and return without impeding uplift. An optional return-only viscous damper can be co-located with axis 120 and tuned to avoid resisting uplift toward limiter 212.

[0152] In typical operating conditions, the panel resides at its rest tilt angle against the lower rotation limiter for the vast majority of sunlit hours. Field data and modeling confirm that in more than 98% of the time when solar irradiance exceeds 100 W / m2, the panel maintains this rest tilt position, thereby maximizing energy yield and mechanical stability. Under elevated wind conditions, however, the system's aerodynamic response provides protection: whenever wind speeds exceed 20 m / s, the aerodynamic moment acting on the panel causes it to rotate upward about the hinge axis. This automatic, wind-driven adjustment minimizes structural loading without requiring active controls, while ensuring that the panel is reliably oriented for power generation during nearly all periods of useful sunlight.

[0153] In certain embodiments the uplift travel is bounded by an upper rotation limiter 212. Upper-limiter realizations include a one-way abutment 118 that engages only during uplift, a slack takeup tether 119, or a ratcheting collar 121. Each prevents the panel from reaching a very flat or fully horizontal posture while allowing free return when the wind subsides.

[0154] Because axis 120 lies windward of the aerodynamic center, wind from behind produces a feathering moment that raises the free edge. In this intermediate band the panel yields to the wind but remains below the cap angle. When winds subside, gravity returns the panel toward the lower stop, optionally moderated by counter gravity biasing if used in the embodiment. Contact at rest is cushioned by dampening members 110.

[0155] As shown in FIG. 4A and FIG. 4B the same mast 102, upper support 105, and hinge axis 120 as in FIG. 1— FIG. 3 are depicted, but no upper rotation limiter 212 is present. Wind from behind acts on the rear face 500B and lifts the free edge of the panel 500 about the horizontal hinge axis 120 toward a very flat posture. These views demonstrate behaviour that motivates the use of an upper rotation limiter 212 in the present invention to arrest uplift short of horizontal so the wind stays on the same side and the panel adopts a repeatable, fixated high wind posture while the horizontal hinge remains free.

[0156] FIG. 5 show a system 100 with a multi panel carrier on a single rotatable vertical support member 102. The outer panels 500 at the edges are set to slightly lower angles than the interior panels by using a lower uplift cap from upper rotation limiters 212. The resulting spanwise "dihedral is achieved by small differences in the edge settings of 212 while preserving single-axis free-hinge reduces in-unison oscillation across the full width without adding mass. For comparison, and not claimed, omission of the upper rotation limiter 212 can permit alternating above and below flow and can be flutter-prone.

[0157] FIGS. 6A to 6D show that hinge placement drives the strong-wind outcome in system 100. The example shown positions the hinge at approximately through the center of the panel chord. With wind from behind toward the rear surface 500B, the aerodynamic moment tends to push the panel 500 toward a vertical equilibrium. If an external constraint holds the panel near horizontal, the posture is unstable and small deflections can increase the aerodynamic moment away from the setpoint. This view illustrates why an axis near mid chord is undesirable at very flat postures.

[0158] In FIGs. 7A to 7D, an example of one aspect of the present invention is shown in contrast to the system shown in FIGs. 6A to 6D. In FIGs 7A to 7D, the axis 120 is placed windward of the aerodynamic center near the windward long edge. With wind from behind toward 500B, the panel feathers upward toward a low-angle posture that tends toward horizontal. With the upper rotation limiter 212 (FIG 3A) present, uplift is arrested before fully horizontal, the wind remains on the same side, and a stable high-wind state is established. In an optional variant the axis 120 is positioned at or within ten percent of chord from the windward long edge to further bias the panel toward a stable horizontal posture in strong winds. Outer panels are configured with rest limits and cap limits offset by a few degrees through small differences in the upper limiter 212, which discourages spanwise coherence while preserving single-axis free-hinge behavior.

[0159] In some embodiments, predominantly single-plane bracing 150 is implemented as a brace / guywire assembly 260 coupled between the upper support 105 and a rotating collar on the mast 102 (see FIG. 11). The brace / guywire assembly 260 comprises hardware implementations that can include a mast clamp 262, an upper support bracket 264, and a turnbuckle 266 for tensioning. Because the braces attach only between rotating members, azimuthal motion is not impeded. The bracing stiffens the sensitive plane of the carrier while leaving the panel free about the single horizontal hinge 120.

[0160] Optional biasing that counteracts gravity may be employed to moderate return speed after wind lulls. By way of example, this is shown in FIGS. 12A-12B, where examples include a counterweight 216 and a spring 218 configured to reduce gravitational return torque without assisting downward rotation in concert with gravity. Whereas FIG. 14 shows a close-up of the rest contact in system 100. Elastomeric bumpers 110 are positioned on the rotation limiter 104 at the panel 500 rest points. An optional friction or viscous element 214 is located at or near the hinge 200. The geometry cushions return impact into the lower bumper 110 and damps small oscillations without impeding uplift toward the optional upper rotation limiter 212. return impact into the lower bumper 110 and damps small oscillations without impeding uplift toward the optional upper rotation limiter 212.

[0161] Aspects of the present invention will now be described with reference to its wind responsive mechanics.

[0162] According to one aspect of the present invention, the horizontal hinge axis 120 is positioned windward of the aerodynamic center of the panel assembly so that rear side wind on 500B produces an aerodynamic moment that urges the panel toward a low angle, lifted posture. Gravity urges a return to the rest posture when winds abate. The motion permitted about 120 is shaped asymmetrically by rotation limiters so that (i) in weak and normal winds the panel resides at a defined production tilt against a lower limiter 210, and (ii) in strong winds the panel attains a stable, fixated posture while remaining attached by only the single, freely rotatable horizontal axis.

[0163] The lower limiter 210 establishes a nonvertical, repeatable rest tilt for solar production and bounds downward travel so the panel cannot rotate to a steep or vertical posture in low to moderate winds. FIGS. 10A-10C illustrate three realizations of a lower rotation limiter 210 that set the downward rest angle for weak and normal winds and bound travel to avoid a steep or vertical droop. In FIG. 10A an adjustable stop wire 116 acts as a tensile stop between panel 500 and the rotatable vertical support member 102. Wire length establishes the production rest tilt. In FIG. 10B a rigid stop bar 112 on the rotation limiter 104 carries a replaceable energy-absorbing insert 114. The panel edge contacts this element at rest, and bumpers 110 can be placed on the rotation limiter 104 to cushion contact. In FIG. 10C a blocking feature 113 formed in or onto the upper support 105 prevents rotation beyond the chosen rest angle. In one implementation the top-bar integrated stop 113 is realized as an integrated lower-stop lug on the upper support 105, with an optional insert 114. As shown, energy absorbing members 110 on 104 cushion recontact at rest.

[0164] In some embodiments an upper rotation limiter 212 prevents the panel from reaching a very flat or horizontal posture and, in certain cases, prevents overshoot beyond horizontal. Representative mechanisms include a one way abutment 118, shown in FIG. 9A, a slack take up tether 119, shown in FIG. 9B, and a ratcheting collar 121, as shown in FIG. 9C. In operation, as demonstrated in FIG. 3, rearside wind rotates the panel upward about 120 until the panel abuts 212, where it is held in a stable, bounded posture while the hinge remains free. This ensures the wind engages the same side of the panel during strong winds and avoids regimes in which flow alternates above and below the plate.

[0165] In alternative embodiments relating to a near edge hinge with tight mast gap, upper rotation limiter

[0166] 212 is optional and the hinge axis 120 is placed very near the windward long edge of the panel— specifically within less than 10 % of panel chord, or in front of the panel, —so that, under strong rear winds, the pressure / suction distribution acts primarily behind the axis and passively drives the plate into a stable horizontal posture. With this geometry, the panel seeks a stable horizontal posture in strong winds while remaining attached by a single free hinge, thereby providing the fixated high wind state without relying on an upper cap. Comparative hinge placements and outcomes are previousoly described and shown in figures such as FIG. 6 and FIG. 7.

[0167] According to one aspect of the present invention related to the solar panel stabilizer (230), a solar panel stabilizer (230) is disposed proximate the hinge axis (120) and configured to limit the gap (g) between the panel (500) and the rotatable vertical support (102) to a selected maximum, preferably not greater than 25 mm, thereby reducing separated-flow development in the gap region and reducing a risk of flutter or other wind-induced vibration while the panel remains mounted for rotation without powered actuation about the hinge axis (120). In some embodiments, the stabilizer (230) is a hinge-mounted spacing element carried by the upper support (105) or by the connection members (200) and extending toward the panel (500) so that the gap (g) remains within the limit throughout uplift rotation. In further embodiments, the stabilizer (230) comprises a shroud or filler fixed to the rotatable vertical support (102) adjacent the hinge axis (120) that at least partially bridges the gap (g) while clearing the sweep of the panel (500) between the lower rotation limiter (210) and any upper rotation limiter (212). The stabilizer (230) may include replaceable wear surfaces or elastomeric edges to accommodate relative motion.

[0168] As an alternative to a separate stabilizer (230), the hinge assembly (200) may be formed as an airflow-stabilizing hinge where the connection members (200) are arranged so that the hinge axis (120) lies within about 10% of chord from the windward long edge while an integral spacer, fillet, or shroud maintains the gap g < 25 mm between the panel (500) and the rotatable vertical support (102) throughout the uplift sweep from the lower rotation limiter (210) to the capped high-wind posture (212, where present). The narrow slot limits recirculation and suppresses turbulence adjacent the mast; combined with the windward axis placement, the pressure distribution acts primarily behind the axis so the panel seeks a low-moment, one-sided flow state near horizontal without locking the tilt axis. In preferred variants g is held < 15 mm, and the axis location satisfies -0.05 c < * xh* < +0.10 c to accommodate packaging while preserving the stabilizing effect. FIG. 17 schematically depicts the gap g relative to the hinge across a representative uplift range and the maintained maximum.

[0169] According to one aspect of the present invention, a solar panel stabilizer 230 is provided proximate the hinge axis and configured to limit the gap g between the panel and the rotatable vertical support to a selected maximum, preferably not greater than 25 mm, thereby reducing separated-flow development in that region and reducing a risk of flutter or other wind-induced vibration while the panel remains mounted for rotation without powered actuation about the hinge axis. FIGS. 16A and 16B illustrate two non-limiting implementations. In one, the stabilizer is a hinge-mounted spacing element carried by the upper support or by the connection members and extending toward the panel so that the gap remains within the limit throughout uplift rotation (FIG. 16A). In another, the stabilizer is designed to fill the gap in such a way that the panel fits into the stabilizer further creating a stable airplane wing effect as regards stabilizing turbulence (FIG. 16B). The stabilizer may include replaceable wear surfaces or compliant edges to accommodate relative motion.

[0170] Without limitation, preferred implementations select a gap g of 15 mm or less in the hinge region and place the hinge axis windward of the aerodynamic center (near quarter-chord). Stabilizer and hinge geometries are selected to clear the panel sweep and to avoid interference with the lower and any upper rotation limiters, any hinge friction or viscous damping elements, and any bracing that rotates with the mas

[0171] In some aspects of the present invention relating to the avoidance of side wind exposure, the system avoids side on inflow in strong winds by orienting azimuth so the rear 500B faces a calculated wind direction within a bounded cone 176. The controller receives current wind direction and wind speed from local sensors and also receives a short-term wind forecast. It computes a calculated wind direction by weighting the measured and forecast directions, with the forecast given more influence when the forecast wind speed exceeds the measured speed. It also forms a forecast-weighted wind-speed signal and compares it to two thresholds to manage stow timing, using a higher entry threshold and a lower exit threshold to provide hysteresis. During high-wind operation the controller holds azimuth so the rear of the panel faces into the wind within a bounded heading cone, for example ±15 degrees about the calculated direction. Different rows or groups can be assigned small, deliberate offsets within this cone to discourage array-scale resonance. When the structure is kept inside the cone, small azimuth errors create a restoring torque, and wind from behind lifts the panel about the horizontal hinge into a stable strong-wind posture, achieved either by a n upper-rotation cap or by a near-edge hinge geometry. In routine conditions the system returns to normal solar tracking about the vertical axis, with the panel resting at the production tilt against the lower rotation limiter.

[0172] In aspects of the present invention relating to carriers supporting multiple panels, outer modules may be assigned slightly steeper lower limit rest angles and / or slightly lower upper limit caps than interior modules, forming a dihedral profile, as shown in FIG. 5. This produces a mild dihedral across the span and discourages spanwise flow coherence while preserving the single axis behavior about

[0173] 120. In aspects of the present invention relating to bracing integrated with the rotating mast, in some embodiments, a brace / guywire assembly 260 connects the upper support 105 to the rotatable member 102 using a mast clamp 262, an upper support bracket 264, and a turnbuckle 266, as shown in FIG. 11. The braces attach only to rotating members and are arranged to clear the swept path of the panel between the bounds set by 210 and 212). This bracing stiffens the sensitive plane under wind while the free horizontal hinge 120 allows back and forth wind gust energy to be relieved without introducing a second locked axis at the panel.

[0174] In aspects of the present invention relating to damping and return moderation, a hinge line friction element 214 as shown in FIG. 14 and / or a viscous damper 219 can be used to reduce snap up and soften return into 110 / 114. A counterweight 216 or spring 218 may be arranged to counteract gravitational return torque so that, upon a rapid decrease in wind, the panel returns toward 210 at a moderated rate, reducing impact energy at the rest contact.

[0175] Aspects of the present invention will now be described relating to direction aware wind alignment and high wind operation.

[0176] According to one aspect of the present invention, a rotatable vertical support member 102 is driven by a motor / actuator 300 under control of a computing unit (controller 142) so that, during highwind operation, the rear surface 500B of at least one solar panel 500 faces the oncoming wind within a bounded heading cone 176 about a "frombehind" direction. In some embodiments, the controller 142 selects and maintains an azimuthal heading such that the rear surface 500B is kept within ±15° of a calculated wind direction. The calculated wind direction is computed as a weighted combination of (i) current locally measured wind direction (144D) and (ii) nearterm forecast / prognosed wind direction available through a forecast interface 170. A direction weight parameter 172D is applied to the measured direction, and a forecast / speed weight parameter 172F is applied to the forecast stream, where 172F increases relative to 172D when forecast wind speed exceeds current wind speed (144S), thereby biasing heading selection toward anticipated veer.

[0177] In one example of the present invention, the controller compares a forecast-weighted wind speed estimate to an enter-stow threshold, with an exit-stow threshold providing hysteresis. When the estimate meets or exceeds the enter-stow threshold, the controller commands the motor 300 to rotate the support 102 until the rear face 500B of the panel lies within a heading cone 176 having a half-angle of about ±15° about the calculated wind direction. During the stow interval, winds acting on the rear face 500B cause the panel to rotate about a horizontal hi nge axis defined by connection members 200 and, in some embodiments, to arrest against an upper rotation limiter 212 if present, which caps uplift angle while the hinge remains free. When the forecast-weighted wind speed falls below the exit threshold, the controller returns the support 102 to routine solar-tracking operation, with the panel resting on a lower rotation limiter at a weak or normal wind tilt.

[0178] In some embodiments, the controller 142 applies deliberate group offsets so different rows or groups adopt distinct headings within the same cone 176. This discourages array-scale resonance while preserving from-behind exposure for each group. The cone 176 limits side-wind exposure where alternating above and below flow is more likely. Keeping the rear surface 500B within the cone 176 around the calculated direction produces a restoring aerodynamic torque under small azimuth perturbations, which, together with the free horizontal tilt axis, redu ces torque demand on azimuth rotation.

[0179] As illustrated in FIG. 8, the controller maintains azimuth so that the measured wind vector (from 144D) lies within the cone 176 around the "from behind" orientation; the legend identifies 176 (cone), 102, 300, 500, 500B, and controller 142. The control flow is shown in FIG. 16A and grouped headings within the cone are shown in FIG. 16B, while FIG. 15 depicts the hysteresis timing using weights 172D and 172F with thresholds 174 and 174H. Where the utilization of the forecast interface 170, direction and speed sensors 144D / 144S, weights 172D / 172F, thresholds 174 / 174H, and the commanded azimuth output to 300. FIG. 15 plots wind speed versus time with an upper "enter stow" threshold 174 and a lower "exit stow" threshold 174H that define a hysteresis band. A forecast weighted speed trace, computed by controller 142 using forecast interface 170 and parameter 172F, crosses 174 before the measured speed and triggers a pre-emptive stow. The controller then holds stow until the forecast weighted speed falls safely below 174H, at which point it commands exit.

[0180] During a highwind event at the commanded heading, uplift on the rear surface 500B rotates the panel 500 about axis 120. In some embodiments, the panel is arrested by an upper limiter 212 to prevent very flat or horizontal postures; in other embodiments where the hinge is placed very near the windward edge (e.g., less than 10% of panel chord), the panel naturally seeks a stable, nearly horizontal posture under strong winds without requiring an upper limiter. In all cases, the azimuthal heading management described herein complements the hinge placement and limiter behaviors by avoiding sidewind attack and by establishing a low torque equilibrium about the vertical axis at the selected heading.

[0181] Aspects of the present invention relating to structural supports and limit mechanisms will now be described.

[0182] According to one aspect of the present invention, the panel carrier is supported by lower and upper supports (104, 105) coupled to the rotatable vertical support 102, with the panel 500 attached to the upper support 105 by connection members 200 that define the substantially horizontal hinge axis 120 located windward of the panel's aerodynamic center. The carrier includes a lower rotation limiter 210 establishing a repeatable rest angle during weak and normal winds and bounding downward travel; in some embodiments an upper rotation limiter 212 arrests uplift before the panel becomes very flat or crosses a horizontal posture during strong winds.

[0183] Aspects of the present invention relating to lower limits will now be described.

[0184] As shown in FIGS. 10A-10C, the lower limiter 210 may be realized by multiple mechanically interchangeable constructions:

[0185] • In FIG. 10A, an adjustable tensile stop wire 116 extends between a rear point of the carrier and the rotatable member 102; set length establishes the rest tilt and bounds downward rotation.

[0186] • In FIG. 10B, a rigid stop bar 112 having a shockabsorbing insert 114 is positioned on the rotation limiter 104 to provide a cushioned rest contact.

[0187] • In FIG. 10C, an integrated topbar stop 113 is provided on the upper support 105; in the depicted implementation the integrated lowerstop lug 211 physically arrests the carrier at the defined rest angle.

[0188] In each realization, soft contact members 110 may be placed at the rest interface to reduce impact energy when the panel returns to the lower stop after a lull, and light hinge friction 214 may be employed to moderate smallamplitude motion without impeding winddriven uplift.

[0189] In some embodiments having upper limit mechanisms, and as depicted in FIGS. 9A-9C, an upper limiter 212 is provided to bound uplift rotation so that, in strong winds, the panel is fixed at a capped angle while the horizontal hinge 120 remains free. Representative realizations include: (A) a oneway abutment 118 integrated at or near the upper support 105 that engages only in uplift and permits free return; (B) a slacktakeup tether 119 that becomes taut at a prescribed cap angle; and (C) a ratcheting collar 121 that permits return rotation while preventing further uplift rotation. These limiters ensure the same side of the panel is exposed under strong winds and provide a mechanically stabilized posture without locking the hinge.

[0190] Further information on directional bracing to the rotating mast will now be provided. As shown in FIG. 11, predominantly single-plane bracing 260 is connected between the upper support 105 and the rotatable member 102 to increase stiffness in a selected plane while preserving the single free horizontal axis where the panels need to rotate. In the depicted embodiment, the brace assembly 260 attaches to the rotating mast.. The bracing geometry is selected to clear the sweep of the panel 500 between the lower and upper limiting positions (210, 212). Because the braces attach only to elements that rotate together about the vertical axis (and not to ground or a nonrotating foundation), the arrangement stiffens one plane without introducing a second locked axis at the panel.

[0191] In certain embodiments, biasing that counteracts gravity is provided to reduce the rate of return after wind decreases. As shown in FIGS. 12A-12B, a counterweight 216 or a spring biasing member 218 is arranged relative to the hinge axis 120 so that gravitational return torque is partly offset without impeding wind driven uplift toward the high wind posture. Contact at the rest position may be further moderated by energy absorbing members 110 at 104 and by a friction element 214 at the hinge.

[0192] In some embodiments, bearing arrangements 130 are provided between the rotatable member 102 and the ground / fixed post 103 to facilitate lowfriction azimuthal rotation. Examples of mast architectures are illustrated in FIGS. 13A-13B, where FIG. 13A depicts an outer rotatable sleeve 102 around an inner fixed post 103 with bearings 130 at opposing ends, and FIG. 13B depicts a complementary arrangement in which an inner member 102 rotates within an outer fixed member 103, also supported by bearings 130.

[0193] The structures described in this section operate together with the control strategy otherwise described to achieve stability in both weak / normal winds (rest on 210 at a production tilt) and strong winds (stable posture under wind with the hinge 120 remaining free and uplift bounded by geometry or by 212). The lower limit mechanisms (10A-10C), bracing on the rotating mast (FIG. 11), and return moderation components (FIGS. 12A-12B, FIG. 14) provide the mechanical means by which the overall system attains predictable, bounded motion across wind regimes while avoiding sidewind exposure.

[0194] Aspects of the present invention relating to biasing and damping at the horizontal hinge will now be described.

[0195] According to one aspect of the present invention, the panel carrier supporting at least one solar panel 500 is coupled to the upper solarpanel support member 105 by connection members 200 that define a substantially horizontal axis 120. Biasing and damping elements may be provided at or adjacent to the axis 120 to moderate return motion toward a lower rotation limiter 210 and to attenuate small oscillations, while permitting substantially free rotation in the uplift direction toward an upper rotation limiter 212 when present.

[0196] In some embodiments, a counterweight assembly 216 is coupled to the carrier at a moment arm with respect to the axis 120 so as to counteract a portion of the gravitational return torque. With this arrangement, when wind magnitude decreases rapidly the rate of descent of the panel 500 toward the rest orientation is reduced, thereby decreasing impact energy at the lower solarpanel support member 104. FIG. 12A illustrates a representative placement of the counterweight 216 behind the axis 120 on the carrier; dampers 110 and optional inserts 114 on the support 104 cushion the final recontact at the rest orientation established by the lower rotation limiter 210.

[0197] In further embodiments, a spring biasing member 218 is arranged to provide an elastic torque opposing gravity over a selected range of angles about the axis 120. The spring 218 is configured so that uplift under rearside wind remains substantially unimpeded. FIG. 12B schematically indicates a spring 218 coupled between the upper support 105 and the carrier proximate the axis 120.

[0198] FIG. 14 presents a close-up of the rest contact in system 100. Elastomeric bumpers 110 are positioned on the rotation limiter 104 at the panel 500 rest points. An optional friction or viscous element 214 is located at or near the hinge 200 carried by the upper support 105. The geometry cushions return impact and damps small oscillations without impeding uplift toward the upper rotation limiter 212. These features support dependent claims on damping at contact and light hinge friction or viscous damping to prevent snapup and reduce recontact shock while feathering under rear wind remains substantially unimpeded. Callouts shown are 100 system, 104 rotation limiter, 105 upper support, 110 dampening or bumper, 200 hinge, 214 hinge friction or viscous damper, 210 lower limiter for context, and 500 panel.

[0199] In some embodiments, a hinge friction element 214 is provided at the connection members 200 to add a small, distributed resisting torque that reduces minor oscillations about the rest orientation without materially impeding rotation toward the uplift direction. In additional embodiments, a viscous damper acts about the axis 120 to dissipate energy during return toward the lower rotation limiter 210.

[0200] The biasing and damping elements described above operate in cooperation with the limiters and the hinge placement. In weak and normal winds the panel 500 rests at a production tilt set by the lower rotation limiter 210, as shown in FIG. 2. Under increasing rear side wind, the off center hinge axis 120 urges the panel toward uplift; the counterweight 216, spring 218, and friction at hinge 214, are each selected so that this uplift remains substantially unimpeded, as shown in FIG. 3. When the panel returns toward the lower limiter after a lull, the same elements reduce descent speed and attenuate oscillations so that recontact at the rotation limiter 104 is cushioned by 110 and 114.

[0201] In some embodiments, the biasing or damping magnitude is fieldadjustable. For example, the counterweight 216 may be repositioned along a short arm to vary the effective moment; a spring 218 may include a preload adjustment; the friction element 214 may include a set screw; and the viscous damper 219 may include an orifice that can be changed to alter viscosity effect. These adjustments permit tuning to the panel mass and site conditions while maintaining the required free uplift behavior.

[0202] FIGS. 2 and 3 provide context for the operating regimes in which the biasing and damping act, FIG. 12A-12B illustrate exemplary biasing implementations 216 and 218, and FIG. 14 illustrates damping at the hinge 214.

[0203] Aspects of the present invention will now be described with reference to directional bracing on the rotating mast

[0204] According to one aspect of the present invention, a brace or guywire assembly 260 is connected between the panel carrier (for example, the upper support 105 or a rigid member carried thereby) and the rotatable vertical support member 102. The brace assembly 260 is attached only to parts that rotate together about the mostly vertical axis, and does not attach to the ground member 103. In this way, stiffness is increased in a selected plane without introducing a fixed constraint that would add a second locked axis at the panel 500.

[0205] In some embodiments, the brace assembly 260 includes a mast clamp 262 secured to the rotatable member 102 and an uppersupport bracket 264 secured to the member 105. A turnbuckle or equivalent tensioning element 266 is provided in line with the brace 260 to set and maintain tension during installation and service. FIG. 11 shows a representative arrangement in which two braces 260 form a "V" between spaced locations on the upper support 105 and positions further down on the rotatable member 102, using the mast clamp 262, the uppersupport bracket 264, and the turnbuckle 266. The brace geometry is selected so that it clears the sweep of the panel 500 between the lower limiter 210 and the upper limiter 212.

[0206] In some embodiments, the braces 260 cooperate with a diagonal frame member (bracing strut) and the off center hinge to manage loads due to oblique winds. Because the panel 500 remains attached by a single, freely rotatable horizontal hinge axis 120, the brace 260 increases stiffness primarily in one plane (for example, lateral stiffness in the view of FIG. 11), while the free hinge allows motion in the orthogonal plane under uplift loads. The result is increased resistance to deformation of the carrier without introducing a second locked axis at the panel.

[0207] In additional embodiments, the structural interface between the rotatable member 102 and the ground member 103 includes a bearing arrangement 130 that supports azimuthal rotation with low friction. FIG. 13A depicts an outer rotatable sleeve 102 mounted over a fixed inner post 103 with bearings 130 arranged near the top of 103 and the bottom of 102. FIG. 13B depicts the complementary architecture in which an inner member 102 rotates within an outer fixed member 103, again supported by bearings 130. Either interface is compatible with the bracing arrangement 260 shown in FIG. 11. Alternatively, the bearing arrangement 130 may employ ball bearings positioned between the rotatable member 102 and the ground member 103 to provide low friction azimuthal rotation.

[0208] In some embodiments, cushioning members 110 and inserts 114 are positioned at contact points on the rotation limiter 104 to absorb energy when the panel 500 returns to the rest position set by the lower limiter 210. The bracing 260 is arranged so that these contact points remain accessible for inspection and replacement, and so that the brace does not interfere with the panel path to the upper limiter 212 in strong winds.

[0209] The brace assembly 260 may be supplied as a kit with the clamp 262, bracket 264, and tensioner 266 adapted to the geometry of 102 and 105. The mast clamp 262 is fitted to the rotatable member 102 so that the brace remains aligned with the carrier during azimuthal rotation commanded by the controller 142 (see FIG. 8 for windaligned heading context). The bracket 264 is positioned so that brace loads act in plane with the carrier, minimizing outofplane prying. The tensioner 266 is set with the panel 500 resting at the lower limiter 210 to avoid biasing the assembly about the vertical axis.

[0210] FIG. 11 presents a perspective of directional bracing on the rotating mast. Braces or guys 260 run from distal regions of the upper support 105 back to the rotatable vertical support 102 through a clamp 262 on 102, an upper-support bracket 264 on 105, and an in-line turnbuckle 266 for tensioning. The braces attach only to rotating members. There is no connection to the ground member 103. Clearances are arranged so panel 500 can rotate on hinge 200 between the lower limiter 210 and the upper limiter 212 without interference. This layout adds stiffness in one selected plane while the single horizontal hinge axis 120 manages motion in the orthogonal plane. Azimuth remains free because the bracing rides with the rotating mast.

[0211] FIGS. 13A-13B show mast architectures that are compatible with this bracing approach. In FIG. 13A an outer rotatable sleeve 102 turns around a fixed inner post 103 with bearings 130 at separated locations. In FIG. 13B the inner member 102 rotates within an outer fixed member 103, again supported by bearings 130. Teaching both alternatives confirms that the bracing concept applies whether the outer sleeve or the inner shaft is the rotating element and supports dependent claims on bearing placement.

[0212] FIGS. 2-4 provide operating context for the braced assembly. FIG. 2 shows the rest state with the panel 500 at a production tilt against the lower limiter 210, contacting dampening members 110 on the rotation limiter 104, with example lower-stop realizations 112 with insert 114, 116, or an integrated lug 211. FIG. 3A and 3B shows intermediate uplift under wind acting on the rear surface 500B. The panel rotates freely about axis 120 toward the cap while the bracing remains clear of the swept path, and optional hinge friction 214 or a viscous damper 219 can moderate snap-up and return without impeding uplift. FIG. 4A and FIG. 4B are comparative views that omits the upper limiter 212 to illustrate the alternating above-and-below flow regime that can occur near horizontal. Together these figures show that the bracing increases one-plane stiffness without adding a second locked axis and without obstructing the free range of motion between 210 and 212.

[0213] Aspects of the present invention relating to sensing and wind alignment control will now be described.

[0214] According to one aspect of the present invention, a controller 142 is operatively coupled to at least one wind direction sensor 144D and at least one windspeed sensor 144S and further has access to a forecast interface 170. The controller computes a calculated wind direction by combining a locally measured direction (from 144D) with a prognosed direction (from 170) using a direction weight parameter 172D and a forecast / speed weight parameter 172F. In some embodiments the controller increases the weight of the forecast component when forecast wind speed exceeds current measured wind speed, such that heading anticipates a change in direction before the strongest winds arrive, while relying more heavily on the measured direction when winds are steady or weak.

[0215] In response to the calculated wind direction, the controller commands an azimuthal orientation of the rotatable vertical support member 102 (via motor / actuator 300) so that a rear surface 500B of the at least one solar panel 500 faces into the wind within a bounded heading cone having a half angle. In some embodiments, the half angle is ±15 degrees. Maintaining the rear surface 500B within this cone produces a restoring aerodynamic torque about the vertical axis for small azimuth errors and avoids side attack that can lead to alternating flow above and below the panel. As winds strengthen, the offcenter horizontal hinge defined by connection member(s) 200 and axis 120 permits upward rotation of the panel. Where provided, an upper rotation limiter 212 arrests uplift before the panel becomes horizontal or passes beyond a horizontal posture, which keeps the same side of the panel facing the wind and provides a repeatable high wind posture. The lower rotation limiter 210 defines a production rest angle for weak and normal winds. These elements cooperate with directional control to produce stable states in both regimes without locking the horizontal hinge.

[0216] As shown schematically in FIG. 8, a plan view illustrates several solar panel mounting systems 100 oriented so that rear surfaces 500B face a measured wind vector, with each system's commanded heading lying within the ±15degree cone 176. The figure also shows deliberate group offset(s) 178R applied by the controller so that different rows or groups are oriented at slightly different azimuths while remaining inside the cone 176. Offsetting reduces the chance that a coherent gust excites an arrayscale resonance, while the cone constraint maintains a restoring torque and avoids side attack. The commanded azimuth is implemented through motor 300 acting on the rotatable vertical support member 102.

[0217] As depicted in FIG. 3A and FIG. 3B, a side elevation shows the same control outcome under strong winds: the structure 100 is azimuthally aligned within the cone 176 so that rear surface 500B faces the wind, the panel 500 rotates upward about axis 120 under aerodynamic moment, and the posture is bounded mechanically by the upper rotation limiter 212 at a cap angle short of horizontal. The lower rotation limiter 210 sets the production rest angle used in weaker winds; in the strong wind state the panel is fixated against upper rotation limiter 212 while the horizontal hinge remains free.

[0218] To prevent repeated transitions between wind protection and energy production states, the controller applies a stow threshold 174 for entry and an exit threshold 174H for return, where 174H is lower than 174 (hysteresis). The thresholds are evaluated using a forecast weighted speed signal derived with parameter 172F so that stow is initiated before peak winds are reached, while heading selection remains based primarily on the calculated wind direction that includes the measured component.

[0219] In some embodiments the controller schedules the cone half angle as a function of conditions. For example, during detected gusts the controller temporarily narrows the cone (for example, below ±15 degrees) to keep the wind direction well within the stable region around the calculated wind direction; when conditions ease, the cone is widened back to ±15 degrees. The controller may also limit the rate of azimuth change to avoid unnecessary movement while preserving the ability to follow rapid directional veer.

[0220] Methods of operation of the present invention will now be described

[0221] According to one method of operation, the wind responsive sequence comprises the following steps:

[0222] (a) receiving wind direction measurements from sensor 144D and windspeed measurements from sensor, and obtaining near term wind forecasts through interface;

[0223] (b) computing a forecastweighted windspeed signal using a parameter and comparing it against a stow threshold with an exit threshold to provide hysteresis;

[0224] (c) computing a calculated wind direction by combining the measured direction and the forecast direction with a direction weight parameter, wherein the weighting favors the forecast component when forecast wind speed is greater than the current speed, and otherwise favors the measured component;

[0225] (d) when the criterion at step (b) is met, commanding motor 300 to rotate the rotatable vertical support member 102 so that the rear surface 500B is oriented within a heading cone defined by halfangle centered on the calculated wind direction, optionally applying group offset(s) 178R so that not all structures share the same azimuth within the cone;

[0226] (e) permitting wind acting on the rear surface 500B to rotate the panel 500 upward about the horizontal hinge axis 120 defined by connection member(s) 200; in embodiments that include an upper rotation limiter 212, arresting uplift at a cap angle short of horizontal, thereby producing a fixated, repeatable posture in strong winds while maintaining only one free axis at the panel; and in all embodiments, using the lower rotation limiter 210 to define the production rest angle used when winds are weak or norm al;

[0227] (f) when the speed falls below exit threshold 174H, commanding motor 300 to return azimuth toward a routine energy yproduction heading while the panel 500 returns toward the rest angle set by lower rotation limiter 210.

[0228] The method steps above operate in cooperation with the structural elements to address the identified wind problems. The calculated wind direction and the ±15degree cone prevent side attack, which otherwise can produce alternating flow above and below the panel. The off center hinge placement and axis 120 provide a passive upward rotation path under rear winds. The lower rotation limiter 210 establishes a stable production tilt in weak and normal winds, and the upper rotation limiter 212 (when present) prevents the panel from reaching a very flat or beyond horizontal posture in strong winds. Group offsets 178R reduce the chance of resonance across multiple structures while preserving the restoring torque characteristic of a rear facing heading within the cone 176.

[0229] In some embodiments the method further includes narrowing the cone 176 temporarily during detected gusts and then restoring the cone to ±15 degrees when conditions stabilize, and capping azimuthal slew rates to avoid excessive motion while maintaining the ability to follow rapid directional changes. The method can be implemented for a single structure 100 or for multiple structures arranged in groups, each controlled by the same controller 142 or by coordinated controllers using common parameters.

[0230] The advantages of the present invention will now be described. According to one aspect, stability results from cooperation of four elements. A horizontal hinge axis 120 is positioned windward of the panel aerodynamic center. A lower rotation limiter 210 sets a repeatable production rest angle in weak and normal winds. Directional bracing 260 connects the panel carrier to the rotatable vertical support member 102. A direction-aware azimuth strategy is executed by a controller 142 that combines measured inputs 144 with forecast inputs 170 using weights 172D and 172F. Optional features can further strengthen the strong-wind state without locking the tilt axis. Examples include an upper rotation limiter 212 realized as a one-way abutment 118, a slack-take up tether 119, or a ratcheting collar 121. Another example places the hinge axis 120 within a small fraction of panel chord near the windward edge with a small panel-to-mast gap and an solar panel stabilizer (230) on 102. These elements yield the technical effects described below.

[0231] First, the system establishes a stable azimuthal equilibrium in storms while the panel remains free about a single horizontal axis. When the rear 500B faces the incoming wind within a bounded cone having halfangle, as shown in FIG. 8, the aerodynamic torque about the mostly vertical axis of 102 is small and has a restoring character for small azimuth errors. As a result, motor 300 holding torque is reduced or not required during the event, and yawaxis loads transmitted to 102 and into the ground member 103 are reduced, as demonstrated in FIG. 8.

[0232] Second, in weak and normal winds, the panel 500 resides against the lower limiter 210 at a predetermined, nonvertical rest angle, as shown in FIGs 1 and 2. The limiter 210 defines a fixed production posture and bounds downward travel so that the panel cannot rotate into a steep or vertical orientation. Soft interfaces 110 / 114 on the rotation limiter 104 reduce recontact impacts when the panel returns after a gust. In this regime gravity dominates, and the hinge 120 and connection members 200 remain free of chatter due to the bounded motion. Resulting in maintenance of a productive incidence angle by the panel, so that daily energy yield remains high.

[0233] Third, in strong winds, two alternative implementations secure a repeatable, one sided flow state while the horizontal hinge remains free. In a first implementation an upper rotation limiter 212, as shown in FIGS. 9A-9C, arrests uplift short of horizontal so the wind continues to act on the same side and the panel is held in a bounded posture by abutment with the single hinge still free. In a second implementation the hinge axis 120 is placed very near the windward long edge, as in FIGS. 6A-6D, within a small fraction of panel chord, for example less than ten percent, with a small clearance to the rotatable member 102, for example no more than 25 mm, and an optional solar panel stabilizer (230)on 102 to calm slot flow. That geometry biases the uplifted equilibrium so the panel naturally seeks a stable horizontal-tending condition in strong rear winds without relying on 212. In either case the tilt axis is not locked, which avoids introducing a second fixed axis on a large plate during a gust. Fourth, intentional avoidance of sidewind exposure is achieved by selecting an azimuth within a cone about the reartowind heading 176, using calculated wind direction from measured direction 144D and forecast direction via an interface, with a relative weight as described in FIG. 15. This reduces entry into flow states where the wind alternates above and below the plate (illustrated in FIG. 4 when 212 is absent), and it prevents flutter prone side attack.

[0234] Fifth, directional bracing 260 from the upper support 105 back to the rotating mast (via clamp 262 and bracket 264 with turnbuckle 266) increases stiffness in the sensitive plane (see FIG. 11). Because the panel remains free about the hinge axis 120, the brace does not create a second locked axis at the panel and therefore cooperates with the free hinge to avoid a backandforth resonance that otherwise could occur if both axes were fixed.

[0235] Sixth, optional biasing and damping at the hinge— counterweight 216 and / or spring 218, plus friction 214 and viscous damper 219— moderate return speed after a lull and reduce impact energy at 110 / 114 without materially impeding uplift as shown in FIGs. 12A-12B. The counterweight or spring counteracts gravity; it does not increase the gravity pulldown.

[0236] Unlike arrangements that let panels swing freely, without coordinated azimuth tracking, the disclosed system uses an azimuth drive 300 and controller 142 to track the sun in weak and normal winds while the panel rests at a fixed production tilt on the lower limiter 210. This tracking feature is the main differentiator because it raises daily energy yield while preserving a bounded wind response. Hinge 120 placement creates a passive aerodynamic bias, and limiter 212 or the near-edge hinge geometry fixes the strong-wind state without locking the tilt axis. Bracing 260 stiffens the sensitive plane. The control cone 176 avoids side-wind exposure and reduces yaw torque, unlike axis-locking approaches that rely on heavy structures and transmit gust loads into the drive and foundation.

[0237] Various embodiments of the present invention will now be described

[0238] According to one aspect of the present invention, the structures and methods of the solar panel structure 100 may be realized across non limiting ranges suitable for different module sizes, sites, and design codes. Figures are referenced for illustration and not for limitation.

[0239] Hinge placement (120). The horizontal axis is positioned windward of the aerodynamic center of the panel 500 so that wind on the rear 500B produces an upward feathering moment. In some embodiments the axis is placed very near the windward long edge, as shown in FIGs 6A and 6B so that, in strong winds, the panel naturally seeks a stable horizontal state; in other embodiments the hinge is placed farther from the edge and an upper limiter 212, illustrated for example in FIGs 9A-9C, is included. The selection balances passive aerodynamic bias with mechanical packaging at 105 and 200.

[0240] Lower rotation limiter (210). The lower rotation limiter 210 sets a nonvertical, energy-producing rest tilt and bounds downward travel so the panel cannot drop into a steep or vertical posture during weak and normal winds. As shown in FIGS. 1-2 and 10A-10C, representative realizations include a stop wire 116 between a rear arm of the carrier and the rotatable member 102, a rigid stop bar 112 on the rotation limiter 104 with a replaceable energy-absorbing insert 114, and an integrated blocking stop 113 realized by a lower-stop lug 211 on the upper support 105. In all forms the limiter defines the rest angle and cooperates with dampening members 110 and the insert 114 to cushion recontact. Light hinge friction 214 and an optional viscous damper 219, as shown in FIG. 14, may be selected to blunt snap-up and moderate return without impeding uplift toward the strong-wind posture. The lower limiter provides production tilt and bounded down-travel. It is not intended as a flutter remedy.

[0241] Upper rotation limiter (212) (optional). When used, the upper rotation limiter 212 arrests uplift at a cap angle short of horizontal so the wind continues to act on the same side of the panel in strong winds while return remains free. FIGS. 9A-9C illustrate suitable mechanisms, including a one-way abutment 118 that engages only in uplift, a tether 119 with slack take-up, and a ratcheting collar 121. This cap prevents very flat or beyond-horizontal postures and avoids alternating above-and-below flow, as contrasted in FIG. 4, while FIG. 3 shows the intermediate state before the cap engages. In alternative embodiments described elsewhere, placing the hinge axis 120 very near the windward long edge within a small fraction of panel chord biases the panel toward a stable horizontal tendency under rear wind and can reduce reliance on 212.

[0242] Near edge hinge + small gap + solar panel stabilizer (230) (optional). In alternative embodiments the horizontal hinge axis 120 is placed very near the windward long edge of the panel, within a small fraction of panel chord, for example less than ten percent, so that rear-side wind acts primarily behind the axis and passively drives the panel toward a stable, horizontal-tending posture in strong winds. Stability is further enhanced by maintaining a small clearance between the panel edge and the rotatable vertical support 102, for example no more than 25 mm, and by adding an solar panel stabilizer (230) on 102 to streamline the slot region and reduce local turbulence. With this geometry, shown in conceptual contrast in FIGS. 6A-6B and in plan in FIG. 8, the system achieves the fixated high-wind state without relying on the upper rotation limiter 212. The hinge about axis 120 remains free, and the single-axis character of the panel motion is maintained. Bracing geometry (260, 262, 264, 266). The brace assembly 260 attaches only between rotating members, from the upper support 105 to the rotatable vertical support member 102, using a mast clamp 262 on 102 and an upper-support bracket 264 on 105 with an in-line turnbuckle 266 for tension adjustment, as shown in FIG. 11. There is no connection to the ground member 103, so azimuth remains free. The geometry is laid out to clear the swept path of panel 500 about hinge 200 between the rest contact at the lower limiter 210 and engagement at the upper limiter 212, if present. Because the bracing rides with the rotating mast, it adds stiffness in one selected plane while the single horizontal hinge axis 120 manages motion in the orthogonal plane, reducing resonance risk without adding a second locked axis. The arrangement is compatible with the mast architectures of FIGS. 13A-13B, and the bracket placement routes brace loads in plane with the carrier. During installation the turnbuckle 266 is set to a neutral preload with the panel resting at the lower limiter 210.

[0243] Mass and uplift onset (areal density target).

[0244] According to one aspect of the present invention, the panel assembly mounted to the hinge axis (120) is specified to have an areal mass density p_A not greater than 10 kg-rrr2. With the hinge axis (120) positioned windward of the aerodynamic center (near one-quarter chord) and with rotation toward uplift being substantially unimpeded, a lower p_A reduces the wind speed at which an aerodynamic moment acting on the rear face (500B) exceeds the combined gravitational and frictional return moments, thereby promoting early uplift and facilitating attainment of the stable, bounded posture used in strong winds.

[0245] In some embodiments, p_A is selected together with the lower rotation limiter (210), hinge friction element (214), and optional viscous damper (219) so that: (i) in weak and normal winds the panel resides at the defined rest tilt; and (ii) in elevated winds the panel rotates upward in a controlled manner toward the high-wind posture without requiring powered actuation at the tilt axis.

[0246] Skew consideration and mitigation. A lower p_A can reduce torsional inertia and may increase responsiveness to asymmetric gusts, which can manifest as lateral skew of the panel about the mast.

[0247] Biasing and damping (216, 218, 214, 219). A counterweight 216 or a spring 218 is tuned to counteract part of the gravitational return torque so the panel's descent after a lull is controlled rather than abrupt, as shown in FIGS. 12A-12B. Hinge friction 214 and a viscous damper 219 located at or near the hinge 200 about axis 120 dissipate energy to reduce impact and oscillation during the approach to the lower contact 110 / 114. These levels are selected to preserve substantially free uplift toward the strong-wind posture and, where present, toward the upper rotation limiter 212. FIG. 14 depicts the hinge-region placement of these elements. Control parameters. For strong winds the controller 142 computes a calculated wind direction by combining the measured direction from with a forecast direction from interface. Weights and set the contribution of each source, with increased when forecast wind speed exceeds the current measured speed so heading anticipates veer. Stow entry and exit use a hysteresis band defined by thresholds and and are evaluated on a forecast-weighted speed signal. The controller then commands azimuth through motor 300 so the rear face 500B lies within a cone of half-angle about the calculated direction, for example ±15 degrees. Optional group offsets 178R assign slightly different headings within the cone to neighbouring structures to discourage array-scale resonance.

[0248] Multipanel dihedral (125). In carriers that hold multiple panels 500, a differential limiters 212 are applied across the span as shown in FIG. 5. Edge units are configured a few degrees different from interior units by using a slightly steeper rest angle at the lower limiter 210 and / or a slightly lower uplift cap at the upper limiter 212. The resulting mild "hang-glider" dihedral breaks spanwise flow coherence and reduces in-unison oscillation across the width while preserving single-axis free-hinge behavior about axis 120, without added mass.

[0249] Aspects of the invention relating to biasing and damping at the hinge will now be described. In some embodiments a counterweight 216 mounted behind axis 120 reduces the net gravitational restoring torque, moderating the rate of return when wind decreases, such as that shown in FIG. 12A. In other embodiments a spring 218 is used for the same purpose, as shown in FIG. 12B. Either may be combined with friction 214 and viscous damper 219 at or near the hinge, as shown in FIG. 14 These elements do not pull the panel down; instead they counteract gravity so that the return into contact with 110 / 114 at 104 occurs at reduced speed.

[0250] Aspects of the invention relating to directional bracing on the rotating mast will now be described. According to one aspect, a brace assembly 260 is connected between the upper support 105 and the rotatable vertical support member 102, as shown in FIG. 11. The brace is anchored to rotating parts only, using a mast clamp 262 on 102 and an uppersupport bracket 264 on 105, and is tensioned with a turnbuckle 266. This increases stiffness in the plane most sensitive to lateral loads, without introducing a second locked axis at the panel. The brace is laid out to clear the panel sweep between the lower limiter 210 and any upper limiter 212.

[0251] Aspects of the invention relating to lower stop realizations will now be described. In addition to a stop wire 116 and stop bar 112 with insert 114, shown in FIGs 10A and 10B, a lower stop lug 211 may be integrated into the upper support 105, as shown in FIG. 10C. The lug 211 physically arrests downward rotation at the selected rest angle while leaving uplift free. Field adjustment may be carried out by shimming or changing the geometry of the striker that meets the lug; all such realizations remain within limiter 210.

[0252] Aspects of the invention relating to upperstop realizations (when present) will now be described. As shown in FIGs 9A to 9C, a one way abutment 118, tether 119 with slack takeup, or ratcheting collar 121 can be employed. Each arrests upward rotation at a cap chosen so that the panel does not become fully horizontal, and each permits return toward the rest angle without added resistance. Where the nearedge hinge geometry is used instead of 212, the same figures are informative about where such a limiter would act if included.

[0253] Aspects of the invention relating to control behavior in wind will now be described briefly for structural context. When forecast, weighted, wind speed exceeds threshold 174 (with hysteresis 174H), the controller 142 commands an azimuth so that the rear 500B faces the calculated wind direction within a cone of halfangle, as shown in FIG.15. The calculated direction uses 144D and 170, with weights 172D and 172F selected so that forecast direction gains influence when forecast speed exceeds current speed. Group offsets 178R may be applied so that rows differ by small angles within the cone to discourage resonance across a field. This control is compatible with either the upper stop embodiment or the near edge hinge embodiment.

[0254] During installation the panel is set to the intended production tilt against the lower rotation limiter 210, and the brace assembly 260 is tensioned to a neutral preload using the turnbuckle 266 with the braces attached between the upper support 105 and the rotatable vertical support 102. The lower-stop geometry is then set using one of the supported mechanisms, namely the adjustable stop wire 116, the rigid stop bar 112 with energy-absorbing insert 114 on the rotation limiter 104, or the integrated lower-stop lug 211 on the upper support 105. If present, the upper stop is adjusted to the desired cap using the one-way abutment 118, the slack take-up tether 119, or the ratcheting collar 121 so uplift is bounded before horizontal while return remains free. After the limiters are set, the counterweight 216 or spring 218 is tuned to moderate return without impeding uplift. Bearings 130 between the rotatable member 102 and the ground member 103 are selected to carry yaw loads consistent with the calculated-direction control of FIG. 15, with allowance for the braced load path shown in FIG. 11.

[0255] Further aspects of the present invention will now be described with reference to FIGs. 18 to 24. For the purpose of FIGs. 18 to 24 and the following text, reference numerals shall have the following meanings.

[0256] Further, terms in the following text shall have the same meaning as terms in the preceding text as follows:

[0257] According to one aspect of the present invention, there is provided a solar panel mounting system containing one or more solar panels. The one or more solar panels sway around a horizontal axis, the horizontal axis attached to a vertical support member around the center of the horizontal axis. The vertical support member is rotatable such that the vertical support member may be rotated to follow the movement of the sun in the sky.

[0258] According to a further aspect of the present invention, there is provided a solar panel mounting system having an inner vertical member fixed to the ground, either directly or via a ground anchoring system. Located over the inner vertical member is a rotatable vertical support member, which rotates around the inner vertical member. Fixedly attached to the rotatable vertical support member is a horizontal axis, preferably the point of attachment of the horizontal axis to the rotatable vertical support member is at or around the center of the horizontal axis. Attached to the horizontal axis are one or more solar panels, these panels are attached such that they may hang from the horizontal axis and sway in the presence of wind. The rotatable vertical support member may be rotated by a motor, the motor may be driven by a computing device which can determine the desired orientation of the solar panels based on measured or predicted wind conditions, or other conditions or requirements. To reduce or limit friction between the inner vertical member and the rotatable vertical support member, bearings may be positioned adjacent the top of the inner vertical member and the bottom of the rotatable vertical support member. In an alternative embodiment, the inner vertical member may be rotatable, while the roatable vertical support member is not rotatable but is rather fixed to the ground as is herein described.

[0259] According to one aspect of the present invention, as shown in Figures 17 and 18, there is provided a solar panel mounting system X100 comprising a rotatable vertical support member X102, a lower solar panel support member X104, an upper solar panel support member X105, and at least one solar panel X500 having a front surface X500A and a rear surface X500B. Optionally, the rotatable vertical support member X102 may be connected to a motor X300 for driving rotation of the rotatable vertical support member X102.

[0260] The at least one solar panel X500 is attached to one or more connection members X200, which in turn are connected to the upper solar panel support member X105. The connection member X200 is in the form of a hinge or alternative mechanism, that functions to allow one item to rotate relative to another item. In this case, the solar panel X500 rotates relative to the upper solar panel support member X105, while the upper solar panel support member X105 remains static.

[0261] The motor X300 rotates the rotatable vertical support member X102, to place the solar panel mounting system into a desired orientation relative to the position of the sun in the sky, or direction of wind force present. One desired position may be such that the rear surface X500B is facing the direction of any wind force present, upon the wind force contacting the rear surface X500B, the rear surface X500B will rotate around the upper solar panel support member X105 by the connection member(s) X200. Figure 19 demonstrates an example of the solar panel mounting system X100 shown in Figure 18, where the solar panel X500 is rotated in the presence of wind from direction X.

[0262] Figure 20 shows the solar panel mounting system of Figures 17 and 18, where the motor X300 has rotated the solar panel mounting system via the rotatable vertical support member X102. This Figure clearly shows the front surface X500A of the at least one solar panel X500.

[0263] In a further example of the present invention, as shown in Figure 21, there is provided a solar panel mounting system X100 comprising a rotatable vertical support member X102, a lower solar panel support member X104, an upper solar panel support member X105, and at least one solar panel X500 having a front surface X500A and a rear surface X500B. Optionally, the rotatable vertical support member X102 may be connected to a motor X300 for driving rotation of the rotatable vertical support member X102. The at least one solar panel X500 is attached to one or more connection members X200, which in turn are connected to the upper solar panel support member X105. The connection member X200 is in the form of a hinge or alternative mechanism, that functions to allow one item to rotate relative to another item. In this case, the solar panel X500 rotates relative to the upper solar panel support member X105, while the upper solar panel support member X105 remains static. Provided on the lower solar panel support member X104 are one or more dampening members X110, which function to cushion the contact between the one or more solar panels X500 and the lower solar panel support member X104. The dampening members X110 may be a piece of foam, rubber or similar soft material, alternatively they may be a spring or other elastic component. Any material or component capable of cushioning contact between two items may be suitable for use as a dampening member, as would be readily understood by a person of skill in the art.

[0264] The motor X300 rotates the rotatable vertical support member X102, to place the solar panel mounting system into a desired orientation relative to the location of the sun in the sky, or the direction of wind force present. One desired position may be such that the rear surface X500B is facing the direction of any wind force present, upon the wind force contacting the rear surface X500B, the rear surface X500B will rotate around the upper solar panel support member X105 by the connection member(s) X200.

[0265] In a further example of the present invention, as shown in Figure 21, there is provided a solar panel mounting system X100 comprising a rotatable vertical support member X102, a lower solar panel support member X104, an upper solar panel support member X105, at least one vertical solar panel support member X106, and at least one solar panel X500 having a front surface X500A and a rear surface X500B. Optionally, the rotatable vertical support member X102 may be connected to a motor X300 for driving rotation of the rotatable vertical support member X102.

[0266] The at least one solar panel X500 is attached to one or more connection members X200, which in turn are connected to a vertical solar panel support member X106. The connection member X200 is in the form of a hinge or alternative mechanism, that functions to allow one item to rotate relative to another item. In this case, the solar panel X500 rotates relative to the vertical solar panel support member X106, while the vertical solar panel support member X106 remains static.

[0267] The motor X300 rotates the rotatable vertical support member X102, to place the solar panel mounting system into a desired orientation relative to the direction of wind force present. One desired position may be such that the rear surface X500B is facing the direction of any wind force present, upon the wind force contacting the rear surface X500B, the rear surface X500B will rotate around the vertical solar panel support member X106 by the connection member(s) X200. In a further example of the present invention, as shown in Figure 22, there is provided a solar panel mounting system X100 comprising a rotatable vertical support member X102, a lower solar panel support member X104, an upper solar panel support member X105, at least one vertical solar panel support member X106, at least one diagonal solar panel support member X107, and at least one solar panel X500 having a front surface X500A and a rear surface X500B. Optionally, the rotatable vertical support member X102 may be connected to a motor (not shown) for driving rotation of the rotatable vertical support member X102.

[0268] The lower solar panel support member X104, upper solar panel support member X105, vertical solar panel support member X106, and diagonal support member X107 serve to support the at least one solar panel X500 atop the rotatable vertical support member X102. Generally, the greater the number of support members X104 to X107, the more rigid and stable the solar pane mounting system X100 is in the presence of wind force.

[0269] The at least one solar panel X500 is attached to one or more connection members X200, which in turn are connected to the upper solar panel support member X105. The connection member X200 is in the form of a hinge or alternative mechanism, that functions to allow one item to rotate relative to another item. In this case, the solar panel X500 rotates relative to the upper solar panel support member X105, while the upper solar panel support member X105 remains static.

[0270] The motor X300 rotates the rotatable vertical support member X102, to place the solar panel mounting system into a desired orientation relative to the direction of wind force present. One desired position may be such that the rear surface X500B is facing the direction of any wind force present, upon the wind force contacting the rear surface X500B, the rear surface X500B will rotate around the upper solar panel support member X105 by the connection member(s) X200.

[0271] In a further example of the present invention, the rotatable vertical support member X102 may attach directly to the upper solar panel support member X105. Connected to the upper solar panel support member X105 are solar panels X500, connected via connection members X200, as has been previously described.

[0272] In a further example of the present invention, as shown in Figure 23, there is provided a solar panel mounting system X100 comprising a rotatable vertical support member X102, a lower solar panel support member X104, an upper solar panel support member X105, and at least one solar panel X500 supported by the upper and lower solar panel support members X105, X104. Located at one distal end of the rotatable vertical support member X102 is a horizontal support member X109, while the other distal end of the rotatable vertical support member X102 is secured to the ground via a foundation 50. The rotatable vertical support member X102 may rotate around the foundation 50 using a ball bearing joint. Attached to the horizontal support member X109 are arms X108, which further attach to the upper and lower support members X105, X104. The horizontal support member X109 is rotatable such that rotation of the horizontal support member (such as via wind force) causes the arms X108 to raise, and in turn raise the upper and lower support members X105, X104 which in turn raise the at least one solar panel X500.

[0273] In a further improvement of the present invention, according to any of the examples herein described, a measurement device (not shown) may be used to drive rotation of a solar panel X500 via a motor X300. The measurement device may measure properties of wind or other external force present, these properties include but are not limited to speed, and direction. Upon the measurement device measuring a property at a predetermined threshold, or meeting a different condition, the motor may be directed to rotate the solar panel X500 to a determined orientation. This determination of the required orientation, and control of the motor may be performed by a computing unit (not shown). Ideally, the solar panel X500 is rotated such that the rear surface X500B faces a direction that allows the solar panel X500 to minimize the force excerpted by the wind upon the panel X500 by means of rotating to a position with reduced angle of attack with respect to the wind, the direction of wind force present, such that the wind force causes the solar panel X500 to rotate to a position such as that demonstrated in Figure 19, whereby the solar panel X500 is substantially parallel to the direction of the wind. In this manner, in the presence of high wind or other external forces, the solar panel X500 may rotate to a position whereby wind or other external force is permitted to pass by the solar panel X500, with minimal resistance.

[0274] In all embodiments and examples of the present invention, the solar panel mounting system X100 may be secured to the ground via a ground anchor (not shown) or similar. The ground anchor may be attached to the vertical support member X102. The ground anchor may be in the form of a ground screw as would be understood by a person of skill in the art, preferably the ground screw extends above ground by approximately 20-80cm and contains a hollow aperture within which the vertical support member X102 may be placed. Is this manner, the ground anchor is embedded within the ground, and the vertical support member X102 is secured within it. This provides a solid and stable foundation for the solar panel mounting system X100. Other forms of ground anchors would also be suitable as would be understood by a person of skill in the art., for example multiple ground anchors X103 could be embedded in the ground at different angles, or alternative ballast or weight could be placed atop the ground in the place of a ground anchor. The ground anchors for example may be in the form of a screw which upon rotation into the ground secures the ground anchor within the ground, or they may be in the form of a metal bar having a cross section designed to provide strength, which may include a "C" cross section, "H" cross section, "I" cross section or the like, which may be driven into the ground by force. Further, the ground anchor may have a substantially flat bottom portion.

[0275] The present invention will now be described with regard to the general logic for controlling the solar panel mounting system X100. When wind force meeting a predefined threshold is forecast, the measured wind speed meets a predefined threshold, or other forces meet a predefined threshold, it is optimal for the solar panel mounting system X100 to rotate such that the solar panels to meet a desired condition, for example:

[0276] An angle which allows the solar panels to rotate while avoiding resonance or turbulence.

[0277] • An angle which allows efficient maintenance of the solar panel mounting system to be carried out.

[0278] • An angle which allows for the maintenance, planting, or care of grass or crops located below the solar panel mounting system. For example, in the case of multiple solar panel mounting systems, all panels in a single row of solar panel mounting systems may be rotated to maximize space for machinery, or every second row could be rotated X180 degrees differently.

[0279] In a further improvement of the present invention, it is possible that any rotated of the solar panel mounting system may be controlled by a remote system, such as via an app on a phone. The app may communicate directly, or via a remote server, with motors which control rotation of individual or a group of solar panel mounting systems.

[0280] The present invention will now be described with reference to solar tracking systems. A solar tracking system moves the solar panels in a solar system to track the sun's movement across the sky to maximize electricity production. Traditionally, there are three forms of solar tracking systems, dual axis trackers, horizontal single-axis trackers (HSAT), and vertical single-axis trackers (VSAT). Dual axis trackers rotate solar panels around both a horizontal and vertical axis, HSAT rotate solar panels around a horizontal axis, and VSAT rotate solar panels around a vertical axis.

[0281] The present invention relates to solar mounting systems that operate like a VSAT which adapt to the presence of wind, by allowing wind to control rotation of solar panels around a horizontal axis. When wind blows towards rotatable solar panels, with a vertical rotation axis in, or near, the center of the solar panels, the wind will induce torque on the solar panels that will - unless the surface is limited from rotating in some way - rotate the solar panels to face the wind. By making it possible for the solar panels to rotate around a horizontal axis based on the wind, the surface can rotate around this horizontal axis away from the wind and as a result reduce this torque.

[0282] Further when the wind blows toward solar panels, the wind will induce force on the solar panels that can damage or topple the solar panel structure unless it is strong enough to handle this force and attached firmly enough not to topple. By making it possible for the solar panels to rotate around a horizontal axis based on the wind, this will cause less strain on the solar panels and make it harder for the wind to topple the body.

[0283] In order to efficiently operate the solar panel mounting system according to the present invention, it is preferable that the tracking of the sun by the solar panel mounting system is efficient with regard to all variables. For example, in the case of the solar panel mounting system being placed in the northern hemisphere, it is desirable for the solar panels to face toward the southeast in the morning, the south at midday, and southwest in the afternoon and evening. Preferably the configuration of solar panels in the solar panel mounting system are optimised to form as close as possible to a solid line when facing southeast and southwest, while minimising the presence of shadows cast behind them. This optimises land use density. The exact aspect ratio of solar panels can vary depending on latitude and desired land density and shadowing, but for example a ratio of 3:1 width:height may be suitable.

[0284] It should be understood by a person of skill in the art that the material chosen to manufacture the solar panel mounting system X100 from is important, it may be a lightweight material such as aluminium or the like, or portions of the system X100 may be manufactured from a heavier material such as steel to provide ballast to the system X100.

[0285] The solar panel mounting system described herein is versatile and can be used with various types of solar panels. This includes, but is not limited to, crystalline silicon solar panels, thin-film solar panels, and other photovoltaic technologies. The system's design allows for easy adaptation to different panel sizes, shapes, and configurations, ensuring compatibility with a wide range of commercially available solar panels. Whether the solar panels are framed or frameless, the mounting system can securely support and optimize their orientation for maximum sunlight capture and wind resistance. This flexibility makes the invention suitable for diverse applications, from residential rooftop installations to large-scale solar farms. Examples of aspects of the present invention will now be listed:

[0286] A first example

[0287] Example 1. A solar panel mounting system for mounting one or more solar panels, including: at least one solar panel, a lower solar panel support member for supporting the at least one solar panel in a rest position, an upper solar panel support member rotatably attached to the solar panel, a rotatable vertical support member supporting a solar panel support member, wherein wind force upon a surface of the at least one solar panel causes the at least one solar panel to rotate around the upper solar panel rotation member out of the rest position.

[0288] Example 2. The solar panel mounting system of Example 1, further comprising a motor connected to the rotatable vertical support member for driving rotation of the rotatable vertical support member.

[0289] Example 3. The solar panel mounting system of Example 2, further comprising a computing unit for controlling the motor.

[0290] Example 4. The solar panel mounting system of Example 3, wherein the computing unit controls the motor to rotate the rotatable vertical support member such that the rear surface of the at least one solar panel faces the direction of incoming wind.

[0291] Example 5. The solar panel mounting system of Example 3, wherein the computing unit determines the future direction of incoming wind.

[0292] Example 6. The solar panel mounting system of Example 5, wherein the computing unit controls the motor to rotate the rotatable vertical support member such that a surface of the at least one solar panel faces the determined future direction of incoming wind.

[0293] Example 7. The solar panel mounting system of Example 3, wherein the computing unit controls the motor to rotate the rotatable vertical support member such that a surface of the at least one solar panel faces within seventy degrees of the direction of present or predicted incoming wind.

[0294] Example 8. The solar panel mounting system of Example 1, further comprising a ground anchor attached to the rotatable vertical support member for attaching the solar panel structure to the ground. The present invention will now be described with reference to one example of a suitable determination metric for rotating the rotatable vertical support member 102, hereafter referred to as a three-dimensional "cone of acceptance", whereby rotation of the rotatable vertical support member 102 is controlled by a computing unit acting as a controller. The cone of acceptance is defined by the wind's angle relative to the panel. In simple terms, it is a range of directions around the panel's rear face within which the wind meets the panel in a stable, manageable way (not too far to the side and not too steep up or down). If the wind direction moves outside that range, the controller turns the structure first to bring the wind back toward this cone, and then allows normal feathering to continue. When the rear surface 500B lies within a bounded cone about the apparent wind, small azimuth errors create a restoring aerodynamic moment that recenters the structure about the vertical axis of member 102. At side-on headings the opposite occurs and small errors increase torque. The cone of acceptance therefore enforces a stable yaw equilibrium while feathering about the horizontal axis 105 remains passive and bounded by the rotation limiter.

[0295] When the apparent wind moves outside the cone (for example, into a strong side-wind direction), the controller prioritizes azimuth correction about the vertical axis of the rotatable vertical support member 102 to bring the wind back toward the cone, while feathering continues passively about the horizontal axis 105 within the mechanical bounds set by the rotation limiter (for example, stop wire 210 or physical stop 212). In this condition only limited uplift occurs— just enough to relieve load— because the limiter and any damping (for example, damper 219 and dampening members 110) prevent large excursions in an unfavorable orientation. After the apparent wind re-enters the cone and a short dwell has elapsed, normal wind-responsive feathering resumes with the full mechanical range permitted by the limiter.

[0296] Hysteresis margins can be applied at the cone boundaries to avoid chatter, and recovery rules can specify dwell times before returning to full feathering authority. Uplift remains bounded so the panel does not reach a fully horizontal attitude; for example, a stop wire 210 may set a near-horizontal offset 6, or a physical stop 212 may be employed, optionally with a damper 219 to absorb terminal energy. If the apparent wind cannot be brought back toward the cone within a timeout, or confidence in wind estimation is low, a fallback stow may be executed (rear-into-wind yaw with bounded uplift), and the event may be logged.

[0297] Key parameters may include the cone limits (yaw and tilt half-angles), hysteresis margins, rate limits for yaw commands, dwell times for recovery, and limiter geometry such as 6, wire length, or stop position. In operation, the cone of acceptance provides a clear rule set: keep the wind within the cone where feathering is most stabilizing; if wind moves outside, re-orient vertically and allow only the mechanically bounded feathering until the wind is guided back toward the optimal envelope. This policy reduces exposure to side-wind conditions associated with flutter while continuing to shed load, thereby protecting the drive, bearings, and foundation 50.

[0298] In one embodiment of the present invention, the array is partitioned into groups such as rows or zones. The controller assigns small azimuth offsets to different groups while keeping every group inside the active cone. Offsets in the range of about 5° to about 15° reduce array-scale coherence and lower the chance of coupled gust response. The controller maintains the offsets during a wind event and removes them when the system returns to routine tracking.

[0299] In one exemplary embodiment the cone of acceptance is defined in a panel-fixed frame by a single angular limit of 70° about the rear-surface normal of the solar panel 500. When the apparent wind direction lies within 70° of the rear-surface normal (that is, not too far to the side and not excessively up or down), the wind is considered inside the cone and wind-responsive feathering about the horizontal axis 105 proceeds passively within the mechanical bounds set by the rotation limiter (for example, stop wire 210 or physical stop 212). When the apparent wind lies outside 70°, the wind is considered outside the cone and the controller prioritizes azimuth correction about the vertical axis of the rotatable vertical support member 102 to bring the wind back toward the cone; feathering remains passive at all times and is mechanically bounded.

[0300] Example parameters (set during commissioning)

[0301] • Cone limit: 70° about the rear-surface normal (single-angle definition).

[0302] • Hysteresis at the cone boundary: 5° (re-entry required at <65°; exit detected at >70°).

[0303] • Dwell after cone re-entry: 2 s before restoring full yaw authority and normal monitoring.

[0304] • Near-horizontal offset 6 (rotation limiter): 8° above horizontal, set by stop wire 210 natural length or stop 212 location.

[0305] • Yaw rate limit: <10% (to respect cable twist or slip-ring duty).

[0306] • Fallback timeout: 10 s (if wind cannot be returned toward the cone).

[0307] Method of operation (controller)

[0308] 1. Acquire wind direction. The apparent wind direction is measured or inferred (for example, from a wind sensor or from proxy signals such as motor 300 electrical load, limiter tension, or pressure on panel surfaces 500A / 500B).

[0309] 2. Cone test. Compute the angular difference between the apparent wind and the rear-surface normal. o If <70° (inside the cone): allow wind-responsive feathering about the horizontal axis

[0310] 105 passively, subject to the rotation limiter (e.g., panel uplift remains bounded at 6). o If >70° (outside the cone): inhibit further yaw drift and command azimuth correction about the vertical axis of member 102 toward the nearest rear-into-wind heading, observing the yaw rate limit.

[0311] 3. Limited feathering outside the cone. While outside the cone, feathering continues only within the mechanical bounds (wire 210 / stop 212, damper 219) so that uplift relieves load without large excursions in an unfavorable orientation.

[0312] 4. Re-entry and dwell. When the wind direction returns to <65° (hysteresis), start a 2 s dwell timer; if the wind remains within the cone for the dwell period, resume normal monitoring (step 1).

[0313] 5. Fallback. If the wind cannot be brought back toward the cone within 10 s, or if measurement confidence is low, execute a fallback stow (rear-into-wind yaw) and record the event.

[0314] With the cone set at 70°, wind-responsive feathering occurs in the most stable range (inside the cone), while outside the cone the controller first re-yaws about 102 and allows only the mechanically bounded uplift needed to shed load. This policy reduces exposure to side-wind conditions linked to flutter and limits the torque delivered to the drive, bearings, and foundation 50, while keeping fea thering simple, passive, and predictable.

[0315] An optional backup energy source may be provided to assure execution of a yaw command when site power is unavailable. The backup is sized to rotate member 102 into the rear-into-wind orientation and to hold for the dwell interval. When the backup is low the controller selects the closest heading within the cone that can be reached and logs the event.

[0316] In one exemplary embodiment intended for sites or events with rapid wind veer, the cone of acceptance is defined in a panel-fixed frame by a single angular limit of 20° about the rear-surface normal of the solar panel 500. When the apparent wind direction lies within 20° of the rear-surface normal, the wind is considered inside the cone and wind-responsive feathering about the horizontal axis 105 proceeds passively within the mechanical bounds set by the rotation limiter (for example, stop wire 210 or physical stop 212). When the apparent wind lies outside 20°, the wind is considered outside the cone and the controller prioritizes azimuth correction about the vertical axis of the rotatable vertical support member 102 to bring the wind back toward the cone; feathering remains passive at all times and is mechanically bounded. This tighter cone is used where wind direction can change suddenly (for example, potential swings of =50°) so that the panels are kept closer to the rear-into-wind centerline and remain within a manageable range if the wind jumps faster than the structure can yaw.

[0317] Example parameters (set during commissioning)

[0318] • Cone limit: 20° about the rear-surface normal (single-angle definition for high-veer conditions).

[0319] • Hysteresis at the cone boundary: 3° (re-entry required at <17°; exit detected at >20°).

[0320] • Dwell after cone re-entry: 3 s before resuming normal monitoring.

[0321] • Near-horizontal offset 6 (rotation limiter): 10° above horizontal, set by stop wire 210 or stop 212.

[0322] • Yaw rate limit: <15% (faster correction to keep near centerline, respecting cable / slip-ring limits).

[0323] • Fallback timeout: 8 s (if wind cannot be returned toward the cone).

[0324] Method of operation (controller)

[0325] 1. Acquire wind direction. Measure or infer apparent wind direction (for example, wind sensor, motor 300 electrical load proxy, limiter tension, or panel surface pressure).

[0326] 2. Cone test. Compare apparent wind to the rear-surface normal.

[0327] • If <20° (inside): allow passive feathering about axis 105 subject to the rotation limiter (uplift bounded at 6).

[0328] • If >20° (outside): command azimuth correction about member 102 toward the rear-into- wind heading, observing yaw-rate limits.

[0329] 3. Limited feathering while outside. Feathering continues only within mechanical bounds (wire 210 / stop 212, damper 219) so that uplift relieves load without large excursions.

[0330] 4. Re-entry and dwell. On re-entry to <17°, start a 3 s dwell; if the wind remains inside for the dwell, resume normal monitoring.

[0331] 5. Fallback. If the wind cannot be brought back toward the cone within 8 s, or measurement confidence is low, execute fallback stow (rear-into-wind yaw with bounded uplift) and log the event.

[0332] Result. With the cone set to 20°, the panel is kept close to the rear-into-wind centerline, providing margin for rapid 50° veer events without leaving a stabilizing orientation. This reduces exposure to side-wind conditions linked to flutter, limits torque delivered to the drive, bearings, and foundation 50, and keeps feathering simple and predictable. In another exemplary embodiment used during severe winds or storm alerts, the cone of acceptance is defined in a panel-fixed frame by a single angular limit of 10° about the rear-surface normal of the solar panel 500. When the apparent wind direction lies within 10°, the wind is inside the cone and wind-responsive feathering about the horizontal axis 105 proceeds passively within the rotation limiter's bounds. When the apparent wind lies outside 10°, the wind is outside the cone and the controller re-yaws about the vertical axis of member 102 to bring the wind back toward the cone. In this mode the system seeks to hold the panels as close to 0° as practicable (rear-into-wind centerline) during strong winds to maximize tolerance to sudden direction changes that may occur faster than the structure can rotate.

[0333] Example parameters (set during commissioning or storm mode entry)

[0334] • Cone limit: 10° about the rear-surface normal (storm mode).

[0335] • Hysteresis at the cone boundary: 2° (re-entry required at <8°; exit detected at >10°).

[0336] • Dwell after cone re-entry: 2 s (short dwell for rapid adjustments).

[0337] • Near-horizontal offset 6 (rotation limiter): 8° above horizontal, set by wire 210 or stop 212; damper 219 recommended.

[0338] • Yaw rate limit: <12% (balanced speed to respect wiring / slip-ring duty while reacting quickly).

[0339] • Fallback timeout: 6 s (shorter threshold under severe conditions).

[0340] Method of operation (controller)

[0341] 1. Acquire wind direction. Measure or infer the apparent wind direction.

[0342] 2. Cone test. Compare to the rear-surface normal.

[0343] • If <10° (inside): permit passive feathering about axis 105, bounded by the rotation limiter.

[0344] • If >10° (outside): command azimuth correction about member 102 toward the rear-into- wind heading, enforcing yaw-rate limits.

[0345] 3. Limited feathering while outside. While outside the cone, feathering continues only within mechanical bounds (wire 210 / stop 212, damper 219) to prevent large excursions in an unfavorable orientation.

[0346] 4. Re-entry and dwell. On re-entry to <8°, dwell for 2 s; if stable, resume normal monitoring.

[0347] 5. Fallback. If the wind cannot be brought back within 6 s, or signal confidence is low, execute fallback stow (rear-into-wind yaw with bounded uplift) and log the event.

[0348] Result. With the cone tightened to 10°, the controller keeps the panel nearly aligned with the rearface centerline during the most demanding conditions, leaving maximum margin for sudden wind shifts. This minimizes exposure to side-wind flutter and helps maintain low yaw-axis torque, while the rotation limiter and damping manage uplift and return without active control of the ho rizontal axis 105.

[0349] A controller may blend live wind measurements with short-horizon forecasts to pre-emptively enter a lower-risk cone mode before severe winds arrive, or be based on prognosis of turbulence instead of strong winds or some other way that unstable weather can be measured. Live inputs can include on-site anemometer direction / speed and recent gust statistics; forecast inputs can include 10- 60 min horizon direction and sustained / gust predictions (for example, from a local nowcast). When the forecasted sustained or gust speed is expected to exceed a site threshold within the horizon, the controller commands rear-into-wind yaw about the rotatable vertical support member 102 and tightens the cone limits (for example, from the nominal 70° mode to the 20° "Tight Cone," or to the 10° "Severe-Storm Cone" for higher risk). The yaw command observes the configured yaw-rate limit (for example, <10-15% to respect cable twist / slip-ring duty), and passive feathering about the horizontal feathering axis 105 remains bounded by the rotation limiter (for example, stop wire 210 or physical stop 212 with optional damper 219) at the near-horizontal offset 6.

[0350] To avoid chatter, forecast-triggered tightening includes hysteresis and a hold-time: once tightened, the controller remains in the tighter cone until both live and forecast signals remain below the threshold for a dwell period (for example, 2-5 min), after which it relaxes back toward the nominal cone. If live direction veers rapidly while forecasts disagree, the controller prioritizes live direction for azimuth alignment but retains the tightened cone until the dwell condition is met. If sensors become unavailable, the controller falls back to rear-into-wind yaw with bounded feathering and logs the event.

[0351] Yaw-axis torque at the rotatable vertical support member 102 can be estimated from readily available signals and used to bias azimuth correction toward torque minima while remaining inside the active cone. Example proxies include motor 300 electrical parameters (current / voltage / speed), cable tension in a cable / capstan drive, and strain / tension in a limiter element (for example, the stop wire 210). These signals may be low-pass filtered and outlier-rejected, and a commissioning sweep can map azimuth angle to proxy torque for calibration. During operation, when the torque estimate rises above a site limit or shows a positive gradient with respect to azimuth, the controller issues a bounded azimuth correction toward the local minimum, subject to yaw-rate limits, cone boundaries, hysteresis at the decision thresholds, and short dwell times to prevent oscillatory hunting. Torque-proxy control never overrides the mechanical bounds on feathering about axis 105 and does not command feathering directly; it only selects azimuth headings that minimize transmitted torque while allowing wind to shed load passively. If the torque estimate cannot be reduced below the limit within a timeout (for example, several seconds) or if proxy confidence is low, the controller executes a fallback stow consisting of rear-into-wind yaw with bounded passive feathering at 6 and records the event for maintenance diagnostics.

[0352] The foregoing description includes examples, sample dimensions, parameter values, and numerical ranges to illustrate enablement of the claimed subject matter. Unless expressly stated otherwise in a specific claim, such examples and ranges are illustrative only and are not intended to limit the scope of the claims. A stated numerical value should be understood to encompass approximate values and normal manufacturing tolerances. A stated numerical range includes all sub-ranges and individual values within that range, as well as values outside the range that achieve substantially the same function or result.

[0353] The description includes examples, sample dimensions, operating parameters, and numerical ranges to teach how to make and use the invention. These examples and ranges are illustrative only and do not limit the claims unless a claim explicitly says otherwise.

[0354] Any single numerical value in this document covers its approximate value and normal manufacturing tolerances. Values are understood as reasonable approximations that a skilled person would accept given measurement accuracy and intended function, "approximately," and "substantially" indicate allowable variation consistent with achieving the stated result. A stated numerical range includes each endpoint, every intermediate value, and every sub-range formed from the endpoints and intermediate values. Unless a different meaning is made explicit, phrases like "between X and Y," "from X to Y," and "X-Y" are inclusive of X and Y. Overlapping and adjacent ranges are intended to be combinable.

Claims

54CLAIMS1. A solar panel mounting system (100) comprising: a vertical support (102) rotatable about a substantially vertical axis; an upper support (105) carried by the vertical support (102) and a lower support (104); at least one solar panel (500) attached directly or indirectly to the vertical support (102), the panel (500) being mounted for rotation around a substantially horizontal hinge axis (120) without powered actuation about the hinge axis (120), with rotation toward uplift being substantially unimpeded; the hinge axis (120) being positioned windward of an aerodynamic center of the panel (500) such that wind incident on a rear face (500B) of the panel tends to rotate the panel upward; a lower rotation limiter (210) that establishes a repeatable rest tilt of the panel (500) under weak and normal winds; an azimuth drive (300) and a controller (142) configured, during high-wind operation, to orient the vertical support (102) so that the rear face (500B) is maintained within a bounded heading cone (176) about a measured or calculated wind direction; a bracing assembly (260) connected between the upper support (105) and the vertical support (102), the bracing assembly (260) rotating with the vertical support (102) and increasing stiffness in a selected plane without constraining rotation about the hinge axis (120), wherein no fixed tie connects the bracing assembly (260) to a non-rotating ground member (103).

2. The system of claim 1, wherein a stabilizing mechanism disposed adjacent the hinge axis (120) and configured to condition airflow in a region between the panel (500) and the vertical support (102) so as to limit separated flow during uplift, thereby establishing a stable, one-sided flow posture about the panel and suppressing resonance at elevated wind speeds while the panel retains a single, passively responsive tilt axis.

3. The system of claim 1, wherein the panel (500) resides at the rest tilt against the lower rotation limiter (210) during more than 98% of instances when solar irradiance exceeds 100 W / m2, and wherein in winds above 20 m / s the panel (500) is rotated upward under aerodynamic moment about the hinge axis (120).

4. The system of claim 3, wherein the hinge axis (120) is located between -5% and +10% of chord measured from the windward long edge.

555. The system of claim 1, wherein the stabilizing mechanism comprises a solar panel stabilizer (230) configured to limit a gap (g) between the panel (500) and the vertical support (102) adjacent the hinge axis (120) to not more than 25 mm, thereby reducing separated flow and reducing a risk of flutter or other wind-induced vibration.

6. The system of claim 5, wherein the solar panel stabilizer (230) is a hinge-mounted spacing element carried by the upper support (105) or by the connection members (200) and arranged so that the gap (g) remains within said limit throughout uplift rotation.

7. The system of claim 5, wherein the solar panel stabilizer (230) comprises a shroud or filler fixed adjacent the vertical support (102) that at least partially bridges the gap (g) while clearing a sweep of the panel (500) between the lower rotation limiter (210) and any upper rotation limiter (212).

8. The system of claim 1, wherein the stabilizing mechanism comprises an airflow-stabilizing hinge formed by the connection members (200) and adjacent structures such that, over a prescribed range of uplift rotation, the gap (g) immediately adjacent the hinge axis (120) is not greater than25 mm, thereby promoting a stable high-wind posture while the panel (500) is mounted for rotation without powered actuation.

9. The system of any of claims 5-8, wherein a preferred value of the gap (g) in the hinge region is not greater than 15 mm.

10. The system of claim 1, further comprising an upper rotation limiter (212) configured to arrest uplift at a cap angle close to horizontal and to permit free return toward the rest tilt.

11. The system of claim 1, wherein the bounded heading cone (176) has a half-angle no greater than 40°.5612. The system of claim 1, wherein the upper support (105) carries a plurality of panels (500) and each panel is mounted by respective connection members (200) that define a respective substantially horizontal hinge axis (120), such that the panels rotate independently of one another.

13. The system of claim 1, wherein the controller (142) determines the azimuth orientation within the bounded heading cone (176) from a calculated wind direction given by a weighted combination of a locally measured wind direction and a forecast wind direction, with a forecast weight increasing relative to a measured-direction weight when forecast wind speed exceeds measured wind speed.

14. The system of claim 1, wherein entry into and exit from the high-wind operation are governed by comparison of a forecast-weighted wind-speed signal to a stow threshold (174) and to an exit threshold (174H) lower than the stow threshold.

15. The system of claim 1, wherein the controller (142) temporarily narrows the half-angle of the bounded heading cone (176) during detected gusts and restores said half-angle when conditions stabilize.

16. The system of claim 1, wherein the controller (142) applies deliberate group offsets (178R) so that different structures adopt different azimuths within the bounded heading cone (176).

17. The system of claim 1, wherein the controller (142) limits an azimuth slew rate while maintaining orientation within the bounded heading cone (176).

18. The system of claim 1, wherein the panel assembly mounted to the hinge axis (120) has an areal mass density not greater than 10 kg-rrr2, thereby reducing uplift onset wind speed for a given hinge placement and friction band.

19. The system of claim 1, further comprising elastomeric bumpers (110) on the rotation limiter(104) at a rest-contact region engaged by the panel (500) at the rest tilt.5720. The system of claim 1, further comprising a hinge-line friction element (214) that provides distributed friction about the hinge axis (120) to attenuate small oscillations without materially impeding uplift.

21. The system of claim 1, further comprising a counterweight (216) arranged at a moment arm with respect to the hinge axis (120) to counteract a portion of gravitational return torque, and / or a spring biasing member (218) arranged to provide an elastic torque opposing gravity over a selected range of angles about the hinge axis (120).

22. The system of claim 1, wherein the bracing assembly (260) comprises a mast clamp (262) on the vertical support (102), an upper-support bracket (264) on the upper support (105), and an in-line tensioner (266), and is arranged to clear a swept path of the panel (500) between the rest tilt and uplift limits.

23. The system of claim 1, wherein the bracing assembly (260) comprises two braces forming a V-shape between spaced locations on the upper support (105) and vertically spaced locations on the vertical support (102).

24. The system of claim 1, wherein the upper support (105) carries a plurality of panels (500) and at least two of the panels are mounted by respective connection members (200) that define respective substantially horizontal hinge axes (120), such that said panels rotate independently of one another, thereby reducing lateral skew under asymmetric gusts and facilitating uplift of each panel in elevated winds.

25. The system of claim 23, wherein each of said at least two panels has a respective lower rotation limiter (210) and optionally a respective upper rotation limiter (212), the limiters being configurable to set different rest tilts and / or uplift caps across the span to reduce span-wise coherence.

26. The system of claim 1, wherein the upper support (105) carries a plurality of panels (500) and a differential limiter set (125) is provided in which outer panels have at least one of: (i) a steeperrest tilt set by the lower rotation limiter (210) and (ii) a lower uplift limit established by an upper rotation limiter (212), relative to interior panels, to produce a dihedral across a span.

1. The system of claim 1, wherein the lower rotation limiter (210) comprises an adjustable tensile stop (116) extending between the upper support (105) or a panel carrier and the vertical support (102).

28. The system of claim 1, wherein the lower rotation limiter (210) comprises a rigid stop bar (112) on the rotation limiter (104) .

29. The system of claim 1, wherein the lower rotation limiter (210) is integrated as a lower-stop lug (211) on the upper support (105).

30. The system of claim 1, wherein the vertical support (102) rotates relative to a ground member (103) via bearings (130) arranged between an outer rotatable sleeve (102) and an inner fixed post (103).

31. The system of claim 1, wherein the vertical support (102) rotates relative to a ground member (103) via bearings (130) arranged between an inner rotatable member (102) and an outer fixed member (103).

32. The system of any preceding claim, configured such that, when the rear face (500B) is maintained within the bounded heading cone (176) and the stabilizing mechanism of any of claims 5-9 or 8 is operative, a stable airflow around the panel (500) is maintained so as to avoid resonance at wind speeds exceeding 30 m / s.

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