Foldable Solar Panel Support System with Hinge Mechanism

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Solution Overview

Problem

There is a gap in the market for portable solar array support systems that can efficiently transport and deploy multiple large solar panels to provide significant power, as existing small portable systems are insufficient for powering multiple devices, while larger systems are bulky and expensive, and intermediate solutions are lacking.

Innovation Solution

A foldable solar array support system with a unique integrated hinge system, swinging brace, and control arm mechanism that allows for compact storage and easy deployment of multiple solar panels, enabling them to be set up quickly and securely at a fixed angle relative to the sun, suitable for remote locations.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Ease of operation

If small portable solar array systems are used, then ease of transport and deployment is improved, but power output is insufficient for powering multiple devices

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveease of transportVSAvoidpower output

Core Design Contradiction:

Ease of operationVSPower

Solution Approach 1:

The solar array is divided into multiple individual solar panels that can be independently handled and positioned. Each panel is mounted on a separate adjustable support structure, allowing the array to be segmented into manageable units that can be transported and deployed in stages, thereby maintaining portability while achieving higher total power output through multiple panels working together

Inventive Principle:

Principle #1Segmentation

2Power

If larger solar systems are used, then power output is improved, but portability and ease of transport deteriorates

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvepower outputVSAvoidportability

Core Design Contradiction:

PowerVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The support structures are designed with adjustable and movable components that allow the solar array to be dynamically configured. The supports can be adjusted to different angles and positions, and the entire array can be quickly assembled or disassembled, providing the flexibility of a portable system with the power capacity of a larger installation

Inventive Principle:

Principle #15Dynamics

3Ease of manufacture

If fixed angle solar panel mounting is used, then manufacturing simplicity is improved, but adaptability to different geographic locations deteriorates

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvemounting simplicityVSAvoidgeographic adaptability

Core Design Contradiction:

Ease of manufactureVSAdaptability or versatility

Solution Approach 1:

The mounting system incorporates adjustable supports that can be configured at various angles to optimize solar panel orientation for different geographic locations and times of day. This dynamic adjustment capability allows the same simple mounting structure to adapt to varying solar angles across different latitudes and seasonal changes, maintaining both manufacturing simplicity and geographic versatility

Inventive Principle:

Principle #15Dynamics

Data Source

PatentUS11569781B2Compact portable foldable solar panel support system and methods of use

Publication Date: 2023.01.31 MILLER GREGORY K

AI summary

Disclosed are methods and apparatus for providing portable or fixed solar array support systems. Embodiments of the invention include an apparatus that holds two multi-cell rooftop-grade solar panels and folds up into a relatively small portable device that easily fits in a garage or shed. When open, the panels are displayed at near the nominal angle to the sun for the region. Adjustable angle supports are available in alternative embodiments.