Collapsible Solar Collector Panel Assembly for Sun Tracking
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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 not flexible or configurable for varying 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, including photo-voltaic (PV) panels and a reflective surface that can be adjusted to track the sun, allowing for efficient energy collection and easy transport and deployment.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If permanent PV panels are installed, then solar energy collection is achieved, but infrastructure and space constraints are faced
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a mobile solar collector with a wheeled base and movable frame that can be repositioned and reconfigured. The frame rotates about a vertical axis and the panel assembly pivots about a horizontal axis, enabling dynamic adaptation to different locations and environmental conditions rather than being permanently fixed
2Reliability
If static solar collector systems are used, then solar energy collection is achieved, but optimal performance for transient external conditions cannot be attained
Solution Approach 1:
The solar collector incorporates movable components including a frame that rotates about a vertical axis and a panel assembly that pivots about a horizontal axis, allowing the system to dynamically track the sun and optimize energy collection for varying external conditions throughout the day and season
3Adaptability or versatility
If mobile solar collector components are added, then flexibility and portability are improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The solar collector is divided into modular components including a base with wheels, a frame structure, and a panel assembly that can be independently positioned. This segmentation allows each component to perform its specific function while enabling easy assembly, disassembly, and transport of the overall system
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 enables flexible and efficient solar energy collection, overcoming infrastructure and space constraints, and allows for optimal energy harvesting in various environmental conditions by being adjustable and portable.
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 is provided with a frame that is coupled to a based and configured to rotate about a vertical axis. A main panel assembly is attached to the frame and pivotal about a horizontal axis relative to the frame. The main panel assembly receives sunlight and converts the sunlight into electrical energy. The main panel assembly includes a central panel, and a pair of pivotal inner side panels, where each inner side panel is attached to the central panel. A pair of outer side panels attached to the inner side panels is also provided. Each outer side panel includes photo-voltaic (PV) panels, and a panel surround frame for retaining the PV panels. Each panel surround frame has a horizontal channel member, a pair of upright channel members, and a channel bracket, defining a perimeter. A peripheral edge of each PV panel is captured within the channel members.