Elastic Cable Solar Tracker for Wind-Resistant Panel Support
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional solar generator systems are limited by fixed mounting, insufficient structural strength, and high rigidity, which restricts sun-tracking and makes them vulnerable to strong winds and external forces, leading to potential damage.
Innovation Solution
A solar generator apparatus with elastically cable-controlled tracking, featuring a middle column, winding devices, and elastic anchors, allowing for adjustable and stable support of the solar generator module, enabling multiple degrees of freedom for sun-tracking and enhanced wind resistance.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Device complexity
If the solar generator module is directly and slantingly fixed to the cylinder, then the structure is simple, but the structural strength is insufficient to withstand strong wind
Solution Approach 1:
The support structure is segmented into multiple independent components: middle column, cables, winding devices, and elastic anchors. This segmentation allows each component to perform its specific function independently, improving overall structural strength while maintaining reasonable complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The system combines different material properties and structural forms (rigid middle column, flexible cables, elastic anchors) to create a composite support system that achieves both strength and flexibility, resolving the contradiction between simplicity and structural strength.
2Stability of the object's composition
If the solar generator module is fixed in a fixed manner, then the structure is stable, but it cannot be adjusted according to the azimuth angle of the sun
Solution Approach 1:
The support structure transitions from a static fixed connection to a dynamic system with multiple degrees of freedom. The middle column and cables enable the solar generator module to rotate and adjust its orientation according to the sun's position while maintaining structural stability through elastic support.
Solution Approach 2:
The system allows changes in geometric parameters (orientation angles, position) of the solar generator module while maintaining structural integrity. The elastic anchors and cables provide the necessary compliance to accommodate these parameter changes without compromising stability.
3Strength
If the solar generator module has high rigidity, then the structure is strong, but it is vulnerable to damage when external force is suddenly applied
Solution Approach 1:
The elastic anchors and cable system provide beforehand cushioning by absorbing and dissipating sudden external forces (such as strong wind or impact) before they can damage the solar generator module. The elastic deformation of these components acts as a shock absorber, protecting the rigid module from sudden loads.
Solution Approach 2:
The cable support system acts as a flexible element that can deform under sudden external forces, providing a compliant interface between the rigid solar generator module and the fixed structure. This flexibility allows the system to absorb shocks and dynamic loads without causing damage.
4Productivity
If the solar generator module area is too large, then the power generation capacity is high, but it may be damaged by strong wind due to insufficient structural strength
Solution Approach 1:
The support system for large-area modules is segmented into multiple cables and elastic anchors distributed around the module perimeter. This segmentation distributes the wind load across multiple attachment points, preventing any single connection from bearing excessive force and enabling support for larger module areas with enhanced wind resistance.
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 apparatus provides stable and elastic support, enabling effective sun-tracking and increased solar energy availability, suitable for larger applications, while reducing the risk of damage from strong winds and external forces.
Implementation Method 1
a second end pivotally connected to a middle portion of a bottom of the solar generator module, and rotatably supports the solar generator module
Implementation Method 2
The first and second winding devices are attached to the middle column. The first cable has a first end connected to the first corner portion and a second end connected to the third corner portion, and is wound around the first winding device
Implementation Method 3
The first to fourth elastic anchors are fixed to the fixed structure and respectively correspond to the first to fourth corner portions
Data Source
AI summary
A solar generator apparatus includes a generator module having first to fourth corner portions; a middle column; first and second winding devices attached to the middle column; first and second cables and first to fourth elastic anchors. The middle column has first and second ends, mounted on a fixed structure and pivotally connected to the generator module, respectively. The first cable, having two ends respectively connected to the first and third corner portions, is wound around the first winding device. The second cable, having two ends respectively connected to two ends of the second and fourth corner portions, is wound around the second winding device. The first to fourth elastic anchors are elastically mounted on the fixed structure. The first cable passes through the first and third elastic anchors to form a W-shaped structure. The second cable passes through the second and fourth elastic anchors to form another W-shaped structure.