Foundation-Free Solar Tracker With Ballasted Rotating Panel Assembly
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional solar systems are expensive, require significant space, and are aesthetically unappealing, limiting their adoption due to high costs and space constraints, as well as aesthetic concerns related to the installation of solar panels on roofs.
Innovation Solution
A free-standing solar tracker with a rotating panel assembly that tracks the sun's movement, comprising a base, support frame, panel assembly, and actuator, allowing for easy deployment in any location with adequate sunlight exposure, without the need for a foundation, and designed to be cost-effective and aesthetically unobtrusive.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Area of stationary object
If solar panels are mounted on roofs in fixed position, then space requirement is reduced, but energy output is limited due to fixed positioning
Solution Approach 1:
The solar panel assembly is mounted on a rotating support frame that enables dynamic repositioning to track the sun's movement across the sky. This dynamic capability allows the panels to maintain optimal sunlight exposure throughout the day, significantly increasing energy output while occupying minimal ground space through vertical mounting.
Solution Approach 2:
The invention transitions from horizontal ground-mounted arrays to vertical wall-mounted configuration with rotational capability. By utilizing vertical space and adding rotational freedom, the system achieves high energy output in a compact footprint, effectively using the third dimension (height) and rotational dimension to resolve the space-productivity contradiction.
2Productivity
If conventional solar systems are installed, then energy generation capability is achieved, but cost is high
Solution Approach 1:
The solar system is divided into modular components: individual solar panels, segmented support frames, and separate mounting systems. This modular segmentation enables standardized manufacturing, simplified assembly, and flexible configuration options, reducing overall system cost while maintaining energy generation capability.
Solution Approach 2:
The invention employs simple, inexpensive materials and construction methods for the support frame and mounting system, prioritizing cost-effectiveness over permanent installation. The free-standing design uses basic structural elements that can be manufactured at low cost, making solar energy accessible despite reduced longevity compared to conventional systems.
3Area of stationary object
If solar panels are mounted on roofs, then space utilization is improved, but aesthetic appearance deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The solar panel system is extracted from traditional roof-mounted configuration and repositioned to wall-mounted vertical orientation. This extraction from the roof surface eliminates the aesthetic impact on roof appearance while maintaining efficient space utilization through vertical mounting on building facades or free-standing structures.
4Adaptability or versatility
If free-standing solar tracker is deployed, then deployment flexibility is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The free-standing solar tracker incorporates a rotating support frame with simple mechanical or motorized rotation capability, enabling the panel assembly to track the sun's movement. This dynamic rotation mechanism provides deployment flexibility for optimal positioning while maintaining relatively simple device architecture through straightforward rotational motion rather than complex multi-axis mechanisms.
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 solar tracker increases energy output, reduces costs, and can be deployed in small areas without obstructing the appearance of buildings, addressing the limitations of conventional solar systems by providing a cost-effective and space-efficient solar energy solution.
Implementation Method 1
A solar panel typically comprises a plurality of photovoltaic cells, also known as solar cells, that convert sunlight into electricity.
Implementation Method 2
an actuator to rotate the solar panel to track the movement of the sun
Implementation Method 3
the base forms a pan to contain a ballast material for holding the base in place
Data Source
AI summary
A free-standing solar tracker comprises a base, a support frame, a panel assembly comprising one or more solar panels, and an actuator to rotate the panel assembly to track the movement of the sun. The solar tracker is designed to be free-standing and requires no foundation. When the solar tracker is deployed, the base forms a pan to contain a ballast material for holding the base in place. The base of the solar tracker is designed to serve as a “suitcase” to contain most of the components of the solar tracker, making it easier to transport the solar tracker 10 to a location where the solar tracker is installed.