Agrivoltaic Two-Axis Tracker Layout for Vehicle Clearance
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing solar energy production systems on agricultural land face challenges in optimizing space usage and structural strength to accommodate large agricultural vehicles while ensuring efficient solar panel orientation and energy production.
Innovation Solution
A solar energy production plant with a support structure comprising rows of poles and tie rods, featuring a two-dimensional 'chequered' layout, allows photovoltaic panels to move on two perpendicular axes, utilizing a combination of main and secondary tubes with rotation control mechanisms and actuation systems, including 'slew drive' and 'rotor-stator' types, to maintain optimal solar alignment and accommodate large vehicles.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If a two-axis solar tracker system is implemented to maximize energy production efficiency, then energy production increases by 35%-45%, but the structural complexity and space occupation increase
Solution Approach 1:
The solar panel array is divided into multiple independent modules, each with its own two-axis tracker system. This segmentation allows each module to operate independently, optimizing energy capture while reducing the complexity of controlling a single large system. The modular approach enables simpler individual tracker units that can be replicated across the installation.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements movement along two perpendicular axes (azimuth and elevation) rather than a single axis. This dimensional expansion allows the solar panels to track the sun's movement more precisely throughout the day and across different seasons, achieving 35%-45% higher energy production efficiency by maintaining optimal perpendicular alignment with sunlight.
2Adaptability or versatility
If the support structure is designed to accommodate large agricultural vehicles, then agricultural land usability is improved, but the structural strength and stability may be compromised
Solution Approach 1:
The support structure employs different design characteristics in different locations: the pole bases and foundation areas are designed with enhanced strength and stability to anchor the structure firmly, while the upper portions and spacing between poles are optimized to allow agricultural vehicle passage. This local differentiation of structural properties simultaneously ensures both agricultural accessibility and overall structural integrity.
Solution Approach 2:
The support structure incorporates adjustable and movable elements that can adapt to different agricultural vehicle dimensions and passage requirements. The modular pole-and-tie-rod configuration allows for flexible adjustments in spacing and height, enabling the structure to accommodate various agricultural equipment while maintaining stability through its dynamic adaptability rather than rigid fixed dimensions.
3Adaptability or versatility
If the support structure uses a two-dimensional 'chequered' layout with raised poles, then agricultural vehicle passage is enabled, but the space occupation by movement mechanisms increases
Solution Approach 1:
The movement mechanisms are integrated within and around the existing pole structures rather than requiring separate dedicated spaces. The two-axis tracker assemblies are positioned to utilize the vertical space above the ground-level chequered support network, nesting the mechanical components within the structural envelope already defined by the raised poles and tie rods. This eliminates the need for additional horizontal space occupation.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent transitions from horizontal space occupation to vertical space utilization by implementing the two-axis movement mechanisms that operate primarily in the vertical and rotational dimensions. The solar panels move along elevation and azimuth axes, utilizing the vertical space above the chequered support structure rather than requiring additional horizontal footprint, thereby maintaining agricultural vehicle access while enabling sophisticated solar tracking.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
This configuration enhances energy production efficiency by up to 35%-45% while minimizing the structure's footprint, allowing for efficient agricultural use and robustness under load and wind conditions.
Implementation Method 1
devices suitable for receiving sunlight, for example photovoltaic panels
Data Source
AI summary
Electrical energy production plant comprising a support structure formed by support poles (2) aligned fixed to the ground, to form one (Fi) or more rows (F1 . . . Fn) of poles, a profile or main tube (4) rotating around a first axis (X) positioned on each row (Fi) of poles; a plurality of secondary profiles or tubes (5) rotating around their axis (Y), constrained to said main tubes by means of special bearings (C) and arranged parallel to each other and substantially orthogonal with respect to the axis (X) of these main profiles, a first rotation control mechanism around the axis (X) of the main tubes (4) and a second rotation control mechanism around the axis (Y) of the secondary tubes (5), solar energy receptor devices (P) fixed on these secondary profiles (5) are fixed which orient themselves by rotating around these axes X and Y due to the rotation of these primary and secondary tubes. The second mechanism for controlling the rotation around the axis (Y) of the secondary pipes (5) comprises for each secondary pipe (5) a frame made integral with it, comprising at least two rods or inclined profiles (51), at least one bar (52), and a transmission rod or profile (53) which integrally connects a plurality of bars, determining the formation of groups of secondary tubes in which a substantially horizontal movement of said rod determines the same movement of the frames and secondary tubes (5) belonging to the same group.