Clamp assembly for solar tracker
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional solar tracking systems are inadequate in optimizing energy conversion from solar panels due to inefficiencies in tracking the sun's angle, leading to suboptimal energy capture.
Innovation Solution
A fully adjustable solar tracker system with a clamp assembly and torque tube configuration that allows for precise alignment of solar modules, reducing the load on the drive motor and enabling independent angle adjustment of each tracker, utilizing a clam shell clamp assembly and cylindrical torque tubes to minimize twisting and harmonic movements.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If conventional solar tracking mechanisms are used, then the system structure is simple, but the energy capture efficiency is insufficient due to inadequate sun angle tracking
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements dynamic adjustment capabilities at multiple levels: each solar module can independently adjust its tilt angle via adjustable pillars, and the entire array can rotate to track the sun's movement. This multi-degree-of-freedom dynamic system enables precise sun tracking throughout the day and across different seasons, significantly improving energy capture efficiency while maintaining reasonable structural complexity through modular design
Solution Approach 2:
The tracking system is divided into independent modular units where each solar module with its adjustable pillar and clamp assembly functions as a separate segment. This segmentation allows each module to independently optimize its position for sun tracking without affecting other modules, enabling precise angle adjustment while keeping individual component complexity low and facilitating easier installation and maintenance
2Adaptability or versatility
If rigid fixed connections are used for solar modules, then structural stability is high, but installation flexibility and angle adjustment capability are limited
Solution Approach 1:
The clamp assembly incorporates adjustable components including the adjustable pillar with variable height and angle capabilities, and the torque tube mechanism that allows dynamic repositioning of solar modules. These dynamic elements enable the system to adapt to different sun positions and ground conditions while maintaining structural integrity through controlled adjustment mechanisms rather than fixed rigid connections
Solution Approach 2:
The system enables parameter changes in multiple dimensions: the adjustable pillar allows variation in height and tilt angle, the clamp assembly permits adjustment of module orientation, and the torque tube mechanism facilitates changes in positional parameters. These parameter adjustments are made possible through mechanical components designed for controlled movement while maintaining stable connections during operation
3Ease of manufacture
If extensive welding and custom fabrication are required, then structural strength is ensured, but manufacturing cost and complexity increase
Solution Approach 1:
The system uses segmented modular components including standardized clamp assemblies, adjustable pillars, and torque tubes that can be manufactured independently using conventional fabrication methods. This segmentation eliminates the need for extensive custom welding and complex integrated fabrication, allowing each component to be produced separately with standard techniques while maintaining overall structural strength through proper connection design
Solution Approach 2:
The clamp assembly and torque tube components are designed as universal, multi-functional elements that can be used across different solar module configurations and orientations. These standardized components serve multiple functions including mechanical support, angle adjustment, and structural connection, replacing the need for custom-fabricated welded structures and reducing manufacturing complexity while ensuring adequate structural strength
4Use of energy by moving object
If the drive motor must handle the full load of moving all solar modules, then the system is simpler, but energy consumption and motor size increase
Solution Approach 1:
The mechanical system is segmented into multiple independent adjustment mechanisms distributed across different solar modules. Each module has its own adjustable pillar and clamp assembly that can be positioned independently, allowing the drive motor to move smaller individual components rather than the entire heavy array at once. This segmentation significantly reduces the energy required for each movement operation while the coordinated control of multiple segments achieves the overall tracking function
Solution Approach 2:
The system employs dynamic adjustment where solar modules can change their positions and orientations in multiple stages rather than moving the entire structure as a rigid unit. The adjustable pillars and torque tubes enable incremental position changes that reduce the force and energy requirements compared to moving the complete array, while the coordinated dynamic adjustment of multiple components achieves the desired sun-tracking performance
Data Source
AI summary
In an example, the solar tracker has a clamp assembly that is configured to pivot a torque tube. In an example, the assembly has a support structure configured as a frame having configured by a first anchoring region and a second anchoring region. In an example, the support structure is configured from a thickness of metal material. In an example, the support structure is configured in an upright manner, and has a major plane region. In an example, the assembly has a pivot device configured on the support structure and a torque tube suspending on the pivot device and aligned within an opening of the support and configured to be normal to the plane region. In an example, the torque tube is configured on the pivot device to move about an arc in a first direction or in a second direction such that the first direction is in a direction opposite to the second direction.