Collapsible Solar Collector Panel Assembly for Space-Constrained Deployment
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing solar collectors face challenges with infrastructure and space constraints, and are not optimal for transient external conditions, as they are typically static and inflexible, limiting their ability to adapt to various environmental conditions.
Innovation Solution
A mobile and collapsible solar collector design featuring a frame that rotates about a vertical axis, with a main panel assembly that is pivotal about a horizontal axis, allowing for the attachment of multiple photovoltaic (PV) panels that can be adjusted and folded for easy transport and deployment, enabling efficient energy collection across different conditions.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If permanent PV panels are installed, then energy collection capability is improved, but infrastructure and space constraints are worsened
Solution Approach 1:
The solar collector is divided into multiple modular panel assemblies that can be independently configured and assembled. Each panel assembly contains PV panels mounted on a frame with adjustable support structures, allowing the system to be segmented into transportable units that can be assembled in various configurations based on available space and infrastructure.
Solution Approach 2:
The support structures include adjustable legs and pivotal panel assemblies that allow dynamic reconfiguration of the collector. The legs can be adjusted to different lengths and positions, and panel assemblies can pivot to optimize orientation, enabling the system to adapt to various terrain conditions and space constraints rather than requiring fixed permanent installation.
2Stability of the object's composition
If static solar collector systems are used, then structural stability is improved, but adaptability to transient external conditions is worsened
Solution Approach 1:
The collector employs adjustable support legs with locking mechanisms and pivotal panel assemblies that can be dynamically repositioned. The legs feature telescopic sections and adjustable bracing that allow the structure to stabilize on uneven ground while maintaining the ability to reconfigure for different environmental conditions such as changing wind patterns or sun positions.
Solution Approach 2:
The support structure allows modification of geometric parameters including leg length, panel angle, and overall collector orientation. These parameter changes enable the system to maintain structural stability while adapting to transient conditions such as varying sunlight angles, wind loads, and terrain variations without requiring a completely different structure.
3Adaptability or versatility
If mobile and collapsible design is implemented, then adaptability to various environmental conditions is improved, but device complexity is worsened
Solution Approach 1:
The complex mobile structure is divided into standardized modular panel assemblies that can be independently manufactured, transported, and assembled. Each module contains its own frame, PV panels, and support structures, reducing the overall complexity by breaking down the system into manageable units with standardized connection interfaces.
Solution Approach 2:
The collector utilizes lightweight frame structures and collapsible support elements that can be easily folded and transported. The panel frames and support legs are designed with hinged joints and telescopic sections that allow the structure to collapse into a compact configuration for transport while maintaining structural integrity when deployed, reducing the complexity of heavy-duty permanent mounting systems.
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 design enhances flexibility and adaptability, allowing for efficient energy collection in various environmental conditions while addressing infrastructure and space constraints, enabling effective use in transient situations.
Implementation Method 1
PV panels, comprised of layers of semi-conductor material, receive photons from sunlight and develop a voltage differential between the layers. When a PV panel is connected to an electrical load during this condition, an electrical current is produced because of the voltage differential.
Data Source
AI summary
A solar collector may include a frame for supporting a plurality of photovoltaic (PV) panels. The frame may be adapted to removably attach to a base. The solar collector may include a first panel assembly, including at least one of the plurality of PV panels, pivotally attached to the frame about a first axis. The solar collector may also include a second panel assembly, including at least one of the plurality of PV panels, pivotally attached to the first panel assembly. The second panel assembly may collectively move with the first panel assembly about the first axis and to pivot relative to the frame, and to pivot about a second axis that is substantially parallel to and radially offset from the first axis, to move between a deployed position and a retracted position.