Foldable Module Carrier with Articulated Supports for Quick Assembly
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing module carrier systems for collector modules, such as solar modules, are time-consuming to assemble and limit flexibility in alignment and positioning, requiring extensive on-site installation effort and being less adaptable to varying surface shapes.
Innovation Solution
A foldable module carrier with articulated side supports and connecting elements that form a collapsible frame, allowing for easy transportation and quick assembly on-site, enabling uniform alignment of collector modules with adjustable angles and accommodating different surface conditions.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If rigid rails with preselected support elements are used, then modules can be mounted at fixed angles, but assembly time is time-consuming and on-site installation effort is extensive
Solution Approach 1:
The support structure is divided into multiple articulated support units that can be independently positioned and assembled. Each support unit consists of side supports with connecting elements that can be independently adjusted, allowing modular assembly rather than installing entire rigid rail systems at once.
Solution Approach 2:
The support units incorporate articulated connections with pivotable joints that allow dynamic adjustment of module angles. The connecting elements can pivot relative to side supports, enabling on-site angle optimization without requiring pre-fabricated rigid structures with fixed geometries.
2Stability of the object's composition
If rigid rails are used, then structural stability is maintained, but adaptability to different surface shapes is limited
Solution Approach 1:
The articulated connections between support units allow the structure to adapt its geometry to different surface contours. The pivotable joints enable the support units to accommodate varying installation angles and surface irregularities while maintaining structural integrity through their rigid connecting elements.
Solution Approach 2:
The module installation angle and position can be adjusted by changing the articulation parameters of the support units. The connecting elements can be positioned at different angles and distances from side supports, allowing adaptation to various surface shapes without compromising structural stability.
3Adaptability or versatility
If individual modules are attached to beams using separate supports, then positioning flexibility is achieved, but assembly complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The side supports and connecting elements are merged into integrated support units. Each support unit combines the functions of positioning and supporting into a single articulated assembly, reducing the number of separate components that need to be handled and assembled compared to traditional separate support structures.
Solution Approach 2:
The articulated support units serve multiple functions: they provide structural support, enable angle adjustment, allow position variation, and facilitate easy assembly. The same support unit structure can accommodate different module configurations and installation scenarios, reducing the need for multiple specialized components.
4Ease of operation
If foldable structure is used, then transportation ease and quick assembly are achieved, but structural complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The support structure is segmented into multiple articulated support units that can be folded together for compact transportation. The pivotable joints between connecting elements and side supports enable the structure to collapse into a space-efficient configuration while maintaining structural integrity when deployed.
Solution Approach 2:
The foldable capability is achieved through dynamic articulated connections that allow the structure to transition between compact and extended states. The pivotable joints enable easy folding and unfolding operations while maintaining structural stability in the deployed configuration.
Data Source
Figure 1~2
Figure 3~4a
Figure 4b~5
AI summary
A module carrier and a collector module system with several collector modules (1) arranged in series and mounted on the module carrier comprises at least two carrier units, each with at least two side carriers (2a, 2b). The side carriers can accommodate at least one collector module (1) between them. The side carriers of adjacent carrier units are pivotally connected to one another in a pivot plane. At least one elongated connecting element (4a, 4b; 12a, 12b; 14a, 14b'; 31, 33) is pivotally provided on each side carrier. Two adjacent connecting elements (4a, 4b; 12a, 12b; 14a, 14b; 31, 33) of adjacent side carriers (2a, 2b) are pivotally connected to one another such that the module carrier and the collector module system are foldable.