Dual axis tracking method
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional solar tracking mechanisms often require costly motors and are designed for specific geographic locations, making them inefficient across different hemispheres and requiring high power consumption, while lacking precision in tracking objects like the sun across the sky.
Innovation Solution
A dual-axis tracking device with linear actuation assemblies and a control module using GPS data to determine the sun's location, allowing the device to rotate solar panels or payloads relative to the sun with low power consumption and accuracy across various locations.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If conventional solar tracking mechanisms use high-cost motors (such as digital servo motors) to achieve precise tracking, then tracking precision is improved, but device cost increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces expensive digital servo motors with inexpensive stepper motors that can be easily manufactured and replaced. The stepper motors, while simpler, provide sufficient tracking precision when combined with the dual-axis mechanical design and control algorithms, significantly reducing device cost while maintaining acceptable tracking performance
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the control approach from analog servo control to digital stepper motor control with microstepping. This parameter change in the control methodology allows precise positioning through software-based angle control, achieving adequate tracking precision without requiring expensive hardware
2Measurement precision
If solar tracking mechanisms are designed for specific geographic locations using polar coordinates, then tracking accuracy at that location is improved, but adaptability to different hemispheres and locations deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a universal tracking system that can operate in both Northern and Southern Hemispheres by incorporating hemisphere detection algorithms and adjustable tracking parameters. The control module automatically adapts to the user's geographic location using GPS coordinates, allowing the same device to function accurately across different hemispheres without requiring hardware changes
Solution Approach 2:
The patent employs dynamic tracking parameters that adjust based on the user's geographic location, time of day, and season. The control module continuously calculates optimal tracking angles using the device's orientation sensors and GPS data, enabling the system to adapt its behavior in real-time to different geographic conditions and maintain high tracking accuracy
3Ease of operation
If conventional tracking systems use complex motor mechanisms to generate motion, then motion control capability is improved, but power consumption increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces complex continuous-control motor systems with stepper motors that move in discrete steps. This mechanical substitution allows the system to achieve necessary positioning through controlled incremental movements rather than continuous motor operation, significantly reducing power consumption while maintaining adequate motion control capability for solar tracking applications
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements periodic tracking updates rather than continuous motor operation. The system calculates new target positions at intervals and moves the panels only when necessary, allowing the motors to remain stationary during stable tracking periods. This periodic action reduces average power consumption while maintaining effective motion control when needed
Data Source
AI summary
The disclosure relates to a tracking device configured to track an object in space, such as the sun, as the object moves across the sky. The tracking device may further be configured to direct a payload toward the object or toward an angle relative to the object. The tracking device may continuously or intermittently determine the location of the moving object, and adjust the position of the payload accordingly. The tracking device may calculate the position of the moving object based on GPS information, such as triangulated coordinates of the tracking device, date, and time. Generally, the tracking device may be capable of tracking an object such as the sun from anywhere on the earth's surface. The tracking device may employ one or more actuation assemblies to position the payload toward or relative to the moving object. The one or more actuation assemblies may operate through linear motion.