Expandable Solar Panel Array With Wire-Guided Sliding Panels
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing solar panel systems for vehicles like RVs and boats are limited by the available surface area for mounting panels, often require complex assembly, and suffer from wiring entanglement issues during expansion and contraction.
Innovation Solution
An expandable solar panel array system with sliding mechanisms and wire guide assemblies that allow movable solar panels to translate relative to static panels, featuring a conduit for routing electrical wiring beneath the static panels, and an actuator mechanism for controlled expansion and contraction.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Quantity of substance
If solar panels are mounted on vehicles like RVs or boats, then electrical power can be supplied to keep batteries charged, but the available surface area for mounting panels is limited and cannot meet power demands
Solution Approach 1:
The patent transitions from a two-dimensional mounting surface (vehicle roof) to a three-dimensional deployable structure. Solar panels are arranged in stacked configurations that can be extended vertically and horizontally, allowing the array to occupy multiple spatial dimensions rather than being constrained to a single flat surface.
Solution Approach 2:
The solar panel array is designed with movable and expandable components that can dynamically adjust their configuration. The array can be compacted for travel and expanded when stationary to maximize power generation, transforming from a static mounting system to a dynamic, adaptable structure.
2Quantity of substance
If extendable solar panel arrangements are used to meet power demands, then more surface area is available for power generation, but the assembly and disassembly become complex and time-consuming
Solution Approach 1:
The solar panel array is divided into modular stacked units that can be independently positioned and secured. Each module contains its own frame and panel components, allowing for simplified assembly where modules are simply connected together rather than requiring complex integration of individual panels.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent employs a nested configuration where movable solar panels are positioned above and can be stored within the space occupied by static panels. When compacted, the movable panels nest within the overall structure, reducing the system to a compact form that fits within the vehicle's available space without requiring complex disassembly.
3Quantity of substance
If movable solar panels are used to increase power generation, then more surface area can be exposed to the sun, but wiring entanglement occurs during expansion and contraction
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces wire guide assemblies as intermediary components that mediate between the movable solar panels and the electrical system. These guide assemblies provide dedicated pathways for electrical wiring, ensuring that wires are properly routed and prevented from becoming entangled as the panels move between extended and retracted positions.
4Shape
If a compact design is used for travel, then aerodynamic efficiency is improved, but solar panel exposure is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The solar panel array is designed with movable and expandable components that can dynamically adjust their configuration. The array can be compacted for travel and expanded when stationary to maximize power generation, transforming from a static mounting system to a dynamic, adaptable structure.
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 provides a compact, aerodynamic design for travel, prevents wiring entanglement, and increases solar panel exposure for enhanced power generation without adding weight, while being easily manageable and adaptable to vehicle surfaces.
Implementation Method 1
a sliding mechanism configured to allow the movable solar panel to translate along the travel path with respect to the static solar panel
Implementation Method 2
a wire guide assembly configured to route electrical wiring for the movable solar panel at least partially beneath the static solar panel such that the wiring is prevented from becoming entangled
Implementation Method 3
solar panel systems have been developed to supply electrical power, generally to keep a battery supplied
Data Source
AI summary
Described are various embodiments of an expandable solar panel array and a solar panel installation kit for installing at least two solar panels on a vehicle, such array and/or kit having a generally nested configuration of solar panels or structures. Some embodiments include a wire guide assembly which is configured to route electrical wiring from an upper solar panel or structure to at least partially beneath a lower solar panel or structure, so as to at least partially retain the electrical wiring during translation of the upper solar panel or structure relative to the lower solar panel or structure, thereby to avoid wiring entanglement and/or damage to the lower solar panel or structure in use.