Solar tracking installation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing solar power generation systems face inefficiencies due to costly, unreliable, and inflexible driving arrangements for dual-axis solar collectors, which restrict movement and reduce power output, necessitating a more reliable, efficient, and cost-effective solution for tracking the sun's position.
Innovation Solution
A solar tracking installation with a dual-axis system featuring interconnected arrays of solar collectors, driven by separate motors for primary and secondary axis movements, allowing precise orientation towards the sun, utilizing a combination of rotational and tilting motions to maximize energy capture.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If linear actuators are used to drive solar collectors, then movement control is achieved, but the system becomes expensive, unreliable, and occupies large footprint space
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces traditional linear actuators with a mechanical linkage system consisting of a movable support structure, connecting rods, and pivot points. This mechanical substitution eliminates the need for expensive and unreliable linear actuators while maintaining precise movement control through geometric relationships between components.
Solution Approach 2:
The solar collector assembly is divided into modular components including individual solar collectors, support structures, and linkage mechanisms. This segmentation allows each component to be optimized independently and facilitates easier installation and maintenance, improving overall system reliability.
2Ease of operation
If linear actuators are used to drive solar collectors, then movement control is achieved, but manufacturing and installation costs increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs simple, inexpensive mechanical components such as standard rods, pivots, and connectors that can be easily manufactured and replaced if needed. These basic mechanical elements are far cheaper than linear actuators, significantly reducing both manufacturing and installation costs.
Solution Approach 2:
The mechanical linkage system serves multiple functions: it provides movement control, supports the solar collectors, and enables adjustment of angles. This multi-functionality eliminates the need for separate actuators and control mechanisms, reducing overall system cost.
3Ease of operation
If linear actuators are used to drive solar collectors, then positioning is achieved, but the system becomes inefficient and wasteful of energy
Solution Approach 1:
The movable support structure allows the solar collectors to dynamically adjust their position and angle in response to changing sun positions. The mechanical linkage automatically translates the movement of the support structure into corresponding movements of the solar collectors, maintaining optimal positioning without requiring continuous energy input.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent employs gravity as a counterbalancing force, where the weight of the solar collectors and support structure works together with the mechanical linkage to maintain positioning. This passive use of gravity reduces the energy required for positioning compared to active linear actuator systems.
4Volume of moving object
If linear actuators are used with limited travel range, then compact design is achieved, but complex sensors are required for monitoring position
Solution Approach 1:
The mechanical linkage system is self-monitoring through its geometric design. The position of solar collectors is directly determined by the configuration of the linkage, eliminating the need for external sensors. The system's own structure provides the information needed for position determination.
Solution Approach 2:
The mechanical linkage acts as an intermediary that translates the movement of the compact support structure into the full range of motion required by the solar collectors. This mediation allows a small-footprint support structure to control large-range collector movement without requiring large actuators or complex sensors.
Data Source
AI summary
Solar tracking installation includes first movement assembly which functionally engages with the primary axis shaft to cause rotation of the primary axis shaft around the primary axis for moving the plurality of planar modules of solar collector elements in a first rotational direction around the primary axis. The installation further includes a second movement assembly which functionally engages with the secondary movement member to cause tilting of each of the plurality of planar modules of solar collector elements around each respective pivotal mount. In this way the movement of the multitude of solar collection elements is a combination of the rotation of first movement assembly and the tilting motion caused by the second movement assembly.