Floating PV Array Submersion Mechanism for Wave Protection
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing photovoltaic units on marine bodies of water face challenges in efficiently generating energy while withstanding mechanical stresses from waves and ensuring safe operation, as they are susceptible to damage from high winds and waves, and require effective protection and cleaning mechanisms.
Innovation Solution
A photovoltaic unit comprising a module array and an array holder that can be dynamically positioned between an operating position on the water surface and a submerged position, utilizing buoyancy and downforce bodies to control depth and mobility, allowing for protection from waves and efficient cleaning, with adjustable mobility and damping elements to optimize hydroelastic behavior.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If photovoltaic modules are positioned on the water surface to maximize solar exposure, then energy generation efficiency is improved, but the modules become vulnerable to damage from waves and high winds
Solution Approach 1:
The photovoltaic module array is designed with dynamic positioning capability, allowing it to move between a surface operating position for maximum solar exposure and a submerged protective position for wave protection. The array can be dynamically lowered into the water when wave conditions exceed predetermined thresholds, resolving the contradiction between maintaining high energy generation efficiency and ensuring reliability against wave damage.
2Device complexity
If photovoltaic modules are fixed on the water surface, then structural simplicity is maintained, but the units cannot be effectively protected or cleaned
Solution Approach 1:
The movable array holder structure serves multiple functions: it positions the photovoltaic modules for optimal solar exposure, protects them by submerging during high wave conditions, and enables cleaning by allowing water flow access when modules are lowered. This multi-functional design adds adaptability without significantly increasing structural complexity.
3Reliability
If photovoltaic modules are lowered below the water surface for protection, then damage from waves is reduced, but energy generation capability is diminished
Solution Approach 1:
The photovoltaic module array operates in periodic cycles, alternating between surface positioning for energy generation during calm conditions and submerged positioning for protection during high wave conditions. This periodic transition between operational states allows the system to maximize both productivity and reliability depending on environmental conditions.
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 solution enables safe and efficient operation by reducing mechanical stresses from waves, allowing for controlled submersion to protect the units from damage and enhance cleaning, thereby improving energy production and system longevity.
Implementation Method 1
A photovoltaic unit comprising a module array and an array holder that can be dynamically positioned between an operating position on the water surface and a submerged position
Implementation Method 2
utilizing buoyancy and downforce bodies to control depth and mobility
Data Source
AI summary
A PV unit for use on a body of water includes a module array including at least one PV module and an array holder designed to move the module array between an operating position on a surface of the body of water and a submerged position below the surface of the body of water. The array holder includes fixing means for coupling to a bottom and/or to the surface of the body of water. The module array is movable in a direction relative to the array holder.