Clamp Assembly for Solar Tracker Pivot and Alignment Adjustment
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional solar tracking systems are inadequate in optimizing energy conversion from solar panels due to suboptimal angles of the sun, limiting their potential energy output.
Innovation Solution
A clamp assembly for solar modules is designed with a planar surface and a saddle region configured to fit over a cylindrical torque tube, allowing for adjustable positioning and secure attachment, which is part of a solar tracker system that can pivot and align solar panels to maximize energy capture.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If conventional solar tracking mechanisms are used, then solar panels can be positioned to follow the sun, but the energy conversion efficiency is limited due to suboptimal alignment angles
Solution Approach 1:
The clamp assembly enables dynamic adjustment of solar panel tilt angles through its pivot mechanism, allowing the panels to transition between different orientations to optimize energy capture at various times of day and year
Solution Approach 2:
The system changes the operational parameter of tilt angle by providing adjustable clamp positions that modify the panel's angular orientation relative to the ground, thereby optimizing solar energy reception
2Productivity
If solar panels are fixed at a single angle, then the structure is simple and stable, but energy output is limited due to inability to track the sun's movement
Solution Approach 1:
The clamp assembly is divided into separable components including the clamp body, mounting bracket, and fastening elements, allowing independent adjustment of each segment to achieve optimal panel orientation without requiring complex integrated mechanisms
Solution Approach 2:
The clamp assembly serves multiple functions: securing the solar panel to the support structure, enabling angle adjustment, and facilitating easy installation and maintenance, thereby reducing overall system complexity while improving energy output
3Ease of manufacture
If solar panels are installed with fixed mounting, then installation is quick and straightforward, but installation errors and suboptimal positioning cannot be corrected
Solution Approach 1:
The adjustable clamp design allows installers to quickly set initial panel angles and then fine-tune the positioning afterward, providing both rapid installation and precision adjustment capabilities through the same mechanism
Data Source
AI summary
In an example, the solar tracker has a clamp assembly configured to pivot a torque tube. In an example, the assembly has a support structure configured as a frame having configured by a first and 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, 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.