Distributed torque single axis solar tracker
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional single axis solar trackers are costly due to the need for strong, heavy torque tubes and supporting structures to handle peak torque values, which increases the overall expense of solar energy production.
Innovation Solution
A distributed torque single axis solar tracking system that employs multiple actuators spaced along the torque structure to evenly distribute rotational torque, reducing the strength and cost of supporting elements and allowing for lighter, less expensive construction.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Device complexity
If a single actuator is used to rotate the torque tube, then the device complexity is reduced, but the weight and cost of supporting structures must increase to handle peak torque values
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the single actuator function into multiple actuators distributed along the torque tube. Each actuator handles a portion of the total torque, segmenting the load distribution and allowing lighter supporting structures while maintaining overall system functionality.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent applies different functional elements at different locations along the torque tube - actuators at specific positions, dampers at intermediate positions, and locking devices at numbered positions. This local differentiation optimizes the structure by placing components only where needed rather than uniformly throughout.
2Strength
If stronger supporting structures are used to handle peak torque values, then the strength and reliability are improved, but the cost and weight increase
Solution Approach 1:
By distributing multiple actuators along the torque tube, the patent segments the torque application points. This allows the supporting structures to be optimized for local load conditions rather than requiring uniform high strength throughout, reducing overall material usage and weight.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent combines multiple functional elements - actuators, dampers, and locking devices - into a distributed system along the torque tube. This merging of functions at different locations creates a more efficient structural system that handles peak torques without requiring excessive strengthening of the entire structure.
3Loss of substance
If multiple actuators are distributed along the torque structure, then the torque distribution is improved and material usage is reduced, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements local quality by placing actuators, dampers, and locking devices at specific positions along the torque tube rather than uniformly. This allows material usage to be optimized locally at each position based on actual torque requirements, reducing overall material consumption while managing complexity through targeted placement.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the spatial distribution parameter of actuators from a single集中 location to multiple distributed locations along the torque tube. This parameter change improves torque distribution efficiency and reduces material usage, while the systematic arrangement of components manages the increase in device complexity.
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 system achieves cost reduction and weight savings by distributing torque across multiple actuators and supporting posts, maintaining strength at peak torque values while minimizing material usage and energy production costs.
Implementation Method 1
each actuator of the plurality of actuators including an electrically energizable rotatably mounted slew drive, and the slew drive in each actuator of the plurality of actuators including and being driven by an electric motor
Implementation Method 2
Each of the two intermediate posts has one of a damper device, a locking device, or a bearing member mounted thereon
Data Source
AI summary
A distributed torque, single axis solar tracking system includes a plurality of spaced apart mounting posts with selected posts having an electrically controlled actuator mounted thereon. A torque structure extends between the actuators to distribute rotational torque on the torque structure. A plurality of solar panels is connected to the torque structure. Electrical apparatus is coupled to each actuator and designed to be coupled to a power source so that when the electrical apparatus is coupled to the power source, the plurality of actuators is energized to rotate simultaneously a desired amount. Whereby the plurality of solar panels is rotated the desired amount as the plurality of actuators rotates.