Field-deployable solar panel stand
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Solution Overview
Problem
In remote locations, it is challenging to stably support portable solar panels at an optimum angle to absorb sunlight, and existing solutions fail to provide a compact and stable deployment mechanism for carrying and using solar panels effectively.
Innovation Solution
A field-deployable solar panel stand with adjustable linear posts, joint assemblies, cross members, legs, and support members that transition between a collapsed configuration for carrying and an expanded configuration for stable solar panel support, featuring post end lock assemblies and friction-enhancing feet for secure positioning.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Volume of moving object
If a solar panel stand is designed to be compact for carrying, then portability is improved, but stability when deployed deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The stand is divided into multiple segments including linear posts, cross members, legs, and support members that can be collapsed together for compact carrying and deployed to form a stable structure. The segmentation allows the stand to transition between compact and expanded configurations while maintaining stability when deployed.
Solution Approach 2:
The stand employs dynamic mechanisms including slidable joint assemblies along the linear posts, pivotable connections at multiple points, and lockable configurations that enable transition between compact carrying state and stable deployed state. The joint assemblies can slide to adjust the configuration and lock to maintain stability during use.
2Use of energy by moving object
If a solar panel stand is designed to support panels at optimum angle, then energy absorption is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The stand uses dynamic joint assemblies that can slide along the linear posts and lock at different positions, enabling adjustment of the panel angle to achieve optimum sunlight absorption. The pivotable connections allow the structure to be configured at various angles while maintaining structural integrity.
Solution Approach 2:
The joint assemblies serve multiple functions: they enable angle adjustment for optimum energy absorption, provide structural support, allow compact folding for carrying, and can be locked to maintain stability. This multi-functionality reduces the need for separate adjustment mechanisms.
3Volume of moving object
If joint assemblies are made slidable for compact folding, then portability is improved, but positioning precision deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The joint assemblies are segmented with slidable components that can move along the linear posts and lock at specific positions. The segmentation allows for both compact folding capability and precise positioning when deployed, as each segment can be independently adjusted and locked.
Solution Approach 2:
The joint assemblies include pre-configured locking mechanisms that enable precise positioning before final deployment. The slidable joints can be temporarily positioned and then locked to maintain precision, ensuring accurate panel orientation while retaining compact folding capability.
Data Source
AI summary
A field-deployable solar panel stand configured to transition between a collapsed configuration for carrying and an expanded configuration for use. The stand includes a plurality of linear posts, cross members, legs and support members interconnected through a plurality of joint assemblies configured to slide along a length of the linear posts to transition the stand between the collapsed and expanded configurations.