Buoyant solar panel, and solar power plant consisting of an assembly of said panels
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional solar panel installations in aquatic environments face challenges such as high maintenance costs, bird damage, and visual impact due to their large, exposed, and complex designs, which hinder efficient energy production and aesthetic compatibility.
Innovation Solution
The development of compact, autonomously floating solar panels with a robust and stable design featuring a fiberglass and polymer structure, stainless steel frame, and polyurethane shock absorbers, which are easily transportable and maintainable, and can be secured together with a system of ropes and straps to form a mesh-like installation that minimizes visual impact and optimizes maintenance.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Area of stationary object
If conventional solar panels are installed on large floating supports or artificial islands, then the panels can be positioned in aquatic environments, but the installation becomes heavy, awkward to install, and forms a screen detrimental to photosynthesis
Solution Approach 1:
The invention divides the solar installation into individual autonomous floating panels rather than one large connected structure. Each panel is a separate unit that can float independently, simplifying the overall system architecture and making installation and maintenance much easier while avoiding the complexity of large-scale floating structures
Solution Approach 2:
The invention transitions from horizontal expansion (large surface area) to vertical stacking (multiple layers). By arranging panels in stacked configurations, the system achieves high energy production capacity without requiring large horizontal footprints, thus avoiding the need for extensive floating supports or artificial islands
2Productivity
If solar panels are installed on exposed floating surfaces, then energy capture is maximized, but the panels become vulnerable to bird droppings and require costly maintenance
Solution Approach 1:
The wetted upper face design creates a self-cleaning effect where birds avoid landing due to wet feet, naturally preventing bird droppings without requiring active cleaning mechanisms. This passive self-service approach reduces maintenance needs while keeping panels exposed for energy capture
Solution Approach 2:
The invention changes the surface condition parameter by maintaining a constantly wet upper face through the wetted design. This parameter change (from dry to wet surface) deterres birds from landing, thereby preventing contamination and reducing maintenance requirements while preserving energy capture capability
3Area of stationary object
If large floating structures are used to support solar panels, then panels can be deployed in aquatic environments, but the structures are heavy and difficult to install
Solution Approach 1:
The system is segmented into small, modular autonomous panels that can be manufactured and deployed independently. This segmentation transforms a heavy, difficult-to-install large structure into lightweight, easy-to-deploy individual units that can be assembled in the water without requiring complex heavy-lifting equipment
Solution Approach 2:
The panels utilize lightweight floating structures with thin-walled constructions that provide sufficient buoyancy and structural integrity while minimizing weight. This allows the panels to be easily handled, transported, and installed in aquatic environments without requiring heavy support structures
4Productivity
If conventional floating installations are deployed, then solar energy can be captured in aquatic environments, but the visual impact on the marine environment is significant
Solution Approach 1:
By transitioning from horizontal expansion to vertical stacking, the invention concentrates the installation in the vertical dimension rather than spreading it out horizontally. This dimensional change reduces the visual footprint on the water surface while maintaining energy production capacity, thereby minimizing visual impact on the marine environment
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
The solution reduces maintenance costs, enhances panel longevity, and provides a visually less intrusive and more efficient energy production system compared to traditional installations, while allowing for easy installation and replacement of individual panels without affecting others.
Implementation Method 1
The invention relates to a solar panel (1) comprising a floating structure and a means for capturing solar energy arranged on the floating structure
Implementation Method 2
the means for capturing solar energy consist of photovoltaic cells
Data Source
Figure 1~5
Figure 6~9
Figure 10~15
AI summary
The invention relates to a solar panel (1-107) including a solar energy collecting means (2-702), such as solar collectors or photovoltaic cells, the panel also including a top surface. Said solar panel is characterized in that it includes a one-piece buoyant structure on which a means (2-702) for collecting the solar energy is mounted, said means being built into a solar module (3-703) arranged on the buoyant structure, in particular in a flat manner. The panel (1-107) has, in a direction perpendicular to the top surface, a substantially constant thickness within at least one peripheral region of the panel (1-107). The invention can be used in the field of sea-based solar power plants or solar power plants in any other aquatic environment.