Collapsible Pantograph Support for Deployable Photovoltaic Arrays
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Solution Overview
Problem
Solar power systems face challenges due to low solar radiation intensity, high initial investment costs, limited resistance to harsh weather conditions, and the fragility of photovoltaic (PV) panels, which makes them prone to damage from extreme weather events like hail and storms.
Innovation Solution
A deployable photovoltaic array with a collapsible support unit made of laterally spaced pantographs, each formed by interconnected rhombs with pivotally joined elongated arms, allowing the array to be stowed during adverse weather and quickly deployed for optimal solar exposure, while also being lightweight and portable, with adjustable angles for maximum energy efficiency and reduced wind drag.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If PV panels are strengthened by implementing thick metal and/or glass plates to increase resistance to harsh weather conditions, then the resistance to harsh weather is improved, but the weight increases and transportability deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies a collapsible support structure that can dynamically change between deployed and collapsed states. The support unit includes movable elements that allow the PV array to be erected during favorable weather for optimal energy generation and collapsed during harsh weather conditions or for transport, eliminating the need for permanently heavy protective structures.
Solution Approach 2:
The support structure is divided into multiple collapsible segments or elements that can be independently moved or folded. This segmentation allows the array to be disassembled into compact sections for easy transport and storage, while maintaining structural integrity when deployed.
2Reliability
If a collapsible array is used to retract and store PV modules during harsh weather, then the protection against unfavorable conditions is improved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The collapsible support structure serves multiple functions: it provides structural support when deployed, protects the PV modules during harsh weather when collapsed, and enables easy transport. This multi-functionality justifies the added complexity by eliminating the need for separate protective structures and transport mechanisms.
3Productivity
If large areas are used for solar harvesting systems to compensate for low solar radiation intensity, then the energy output is improved, but the initial investment cost increases
Solution Approach 1:
The deployable/collapsible nature of the array allows it to be positioned optimally during favorable conditions to maximize energy capture per unit area, and protected during harsh conditions to prevent damage and maintain productivity over time. This dynamic capability increases the effective productivity of each unit area.
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 enhances the longevity and efficiency of PV systems by providing protection against harsh weather, reducing weight and wind resistance, and enabling optimal solar positioning and natural cooling, thus extending the lifespan and improving energy output.
Implementation Method 1
photovoltaic (PV) generation means... PV cells... direct conversion of sunlight into electricity
Implementation Method 2
apparatus with significantly reduced wind drag forces under windy conditions
Data Source
Figure 1
Figure 2a~2c
Figure 3a~3b
AI summary
A deployable photovoltaic array comprising a plurality of photovoltaic modules attached to a collapsible support unit, where said support unit is made up of a pair of laterally spaced similar pantograph. Each pantograph has the form of a plurality of interconnected rhombs made by pivotally joined elongated arms. Two opposite sides of each solar module are attached to a pair of corresponding nearest parallel arms on the opposite sides of said pantograph. Said array in its deployed condition for large solar elevation angles acquires a characteristic staircase-like form. Angles of said rhombs may further be adjusted to achieve an optimal inclination of said solar modules with respect to the current direction to the sun. In the stowed configuration said array may be held in a protecting container, and is readily portable.