Fillable Column Base Stand for Two-Axis Solar Module Alignment

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing elevation systems for photovoltaic and solar thermal modules lack simplicity in setup and dismantling, stability, and optimal alignment for efficient solar radiation capture, while also hindering access and agricultural use.

Innovation Solution

A modular elevation system with a base and support structure that allows two-axis alignment, featuring a hollow base that can be filled with material for stability, and a rotatable support frame for sun tracking and easy access, with optional anchoring for increased stability.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Ease of operation

If a conventional scaffold support structure is used, then rotational and pivoting mobility are enabled, but setup and dismantling processes are complex and time-consuming

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvesetup and dismantling simplicityVSAvoidsupport structure complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of operationVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The support structure is divided into modular components: a base body, a support column, and a support arm that can be independently assembled and disassembled. This segmentation allows rapid setup and dismantling while maintaining structural integrity during operation.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The support arm is designed with rotational and pivoting capabilities that allow dynamic adjustment during operation. The structure transitions from a static scaffold to a dynamic system that can adapt its configuration, simplifying both setup and operational flexibility.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

2Ease of operation

If the support structure is made lightweight for mobility, then rotational and pivoting are easier, but stability and force transfer capability are reduced

Engineering Contradiction:
Improverotational and pivoting easeVSAvoidmounting stability
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of operationVSReliability

Solution Approach 1:

The base body is designed as a hollow structure that can be filled with stabilizing material such as concrete or sand. This composite approach combines the light weight of the base shell with the stability of the filling material, achieving both ease of rotation and mounting stability.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #40Composite materials

Solution Approach 2:

The hollow base body filled with heavy material acts as a counterweight that provides stability and anchors the lightweight support structure. This counterbalancing approach enables the upper support components to remain lightweight for easy rotation while the base provides the necessary stability.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #8Anti-weight (Counterweight)

3Reliability

If the base is solid and heavy for stability, then mounting reliability is improved, but setup and dismantling become more difficult

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvemounting stabilityVSAvoidsetup and dismantling ease
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The base is segmented into a hollow outer shell and an removable filling material. This allows the base to be transported and assembled easily in its hollow state, then filled on-site to achieve the required stability, combining ease of setup with mounting reliability.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The stability parameter of the base can be changed by adjusting the amount and type of filling material. This allows the same base structure to be adapted to different stability requirements while maintaining ease of setup and dismantling through the removable filling approach.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #35Parameter changes

4Reliability

If the support structure is fixed in position, then mounting stability is maximized, but access for maintenance and agricultural use is hindered

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvemounting stabilityVSAvoidaccessibility for maintenance and agriculture
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The support arm incorporates rotational and pivoting joints that allow the mounted object to be repositioned dynamically. This enables maintenance access from different angles and preserves agricultural land usability while maintaining stable mounting during operational positions.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

Solution Approach 2:

The support structure is designed to serve multiple functions: stable mounting during operation, easy repositioning for maintenance, and minimal interference with agricultural activities. The rotational and pivoting capabilities enable the same structure to fulfill both stability and accessibility requirements at different times.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

Data Source

PatentEP4436037A1Stand up system
Publication Date: 2024.09.25 INGO LUTZ
  • EP4436037A1 patent drawingFigure 1~2
  • EP4436037A1 patent drawingFigure 3~4
  • EP4436037A1 patent drawingFigure 5~6

AI summary

1. Mounting system. 2.1. The invention relates to a mounting system for a functional unit (4), wherein the mounting system comprises a ground-standing base (1) and a support structure (2) held on the base, with a support frame (3) for the functional unit (4). 2.2. According to the invention, the base has a column-shaped base body (5) that can be filled with a filling material, and the support structure has a support structure (6) to which the support frame is pivotally mounted about a horizontal pivot axis (S) and which is rotatably mounted on the base body about a vertical rotation axis (D). 2.3. Use, for example, as a mounting system for photovoltaic modules.