Foldable Solar Panel Mechanism With Single-Actuator Tilting
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Solution Overview
Problem
Foldable and tiltable devices for solar radiation conversion or deflection face reliability and cost issues due to complex mechanical and electrical systems, and are prone to environmental degradation, especially in arid regions with high dust and wind, leading to performance reduction and damage.
Innovation Solution
A foldable and tiltable device with a combined folding and tilting system using a linear actuator that sequentially triggers folding and tilting actions, eliminating the need for additional motors or actuators, and featuring automatic locking mechanisms to protect the panels from environmental influences and mechanical loads, while ensuring secure operation and reduced maintenance costs.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a complex mechanical and electrical system is used to enable folding and tilting, then the device can transition between positions, but the reliability decreases and costs increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the folding mechanism and tilting mechanism into a single integrated system actuated by one linear actuator. The linear actuator sequentially triggers both folding and tilting actions through a mechanically coupled system, reducing the number of independent actuators and control systems while maintaining full functionality.
Solution Approach 2:
The single linear actuator serves multiple functions: it acts as both the folding actuator and the tilting actuator. By mechanically coupling the folding mechanism and tilting mechanism, one actuator performs the work of what would traditionally require separate actuators, simplifying the system and improving reliability.
2Adaptability or versatility
If additional motors or actuators are added to enable tilting, then the tilting function is achieved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The folding mechanism and tilting mechanism are mechanically combined into a single integrated system. The linear actuator is pivotally mounted to the base frame and its actuating element is mechanically connected to the folding mechanism, creating a coupled system where one actuator controls both functions.
Solution Approach 2:
The linear actuator is designed to perform dual functions: it drives the folding movement and subsequently drives the tilting movement. This multi-functional actuator eliminates the need for separate motors or actuators for tilting, reducing overall system complexity.
3Productivity
If the panels remain in an open position, then solar radiation conversion is efficient, but the optically relevant surfaces are exposed to environmental degradation
Solution Approach 1:
The device is designed to dynamically transition between open and closed positions based on operational requirements. During operation, panels are in the tilted open position for efficient solar radiation conversion. When not in use or during harsh environmental conditions, the panels automatically fold to the closed position, protecting the optically relevant surfaces from dust, sand, and wind damage.
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 provides high reliability and robustness with minimized production and maintenance costs, ensuring the panels remain protected and operational in harsh environments, with the ability to quickly transition between positions for efficient solar radiation conversion or deflection.
Implementation Method 1
a linear actuator comprising a linear moveable actuating element that is movable between a start position and an end position
Implementation Method 2
the first panel is pivotably connected to the base frame on a first bearing point
Implementation Method 3
the base frame of the device is pivotably connected to the base platform allowing rotational movement of the device with regard to the base platform around a vertical axis
Data Source
Figure 1
Figure 2
Figure 3a~3c
AI summary
The present invention relates to a foldable and tiltable device (1) for the conversion or deflection of solar radiation, said device comprising - at least one first (2a) and one second panel (2b), wherein each panel (2a, 2b) has an optically relevant surface (2a', 2b') for converting or deflecting solar radiation, - a base frame (3), and - a combined folding and tilting system (4) for transitioning the at least two panels (2a, 2b) with respect to each other between • a closed folded position (PI), wherein the optically relevant surfaces of the first and the second panel are facing each other in an idle position, protecting the optically relevant surfaces from environmentally caused degradation, and • an opened unfolded position (P6, P7, P8), wherein the optically relevant surfaces (2a', 2b') are put into a tilted position and opened with respect to each other to be exposable to solar radiation, wherein the combined folding and tilting system (4) comprises a folding mechanism (4a1, 4a2) for mechanically guiding the folding movement of the second panel (2a) with respect to the first panel (2b) when switching between the opened unfolded position (P6, P7, P8) and the closed folded position (P1)wherein the transitioning between P1 and P8, as well as relevant locking mechanisms are sequentially triggered by one single mechanical actuator.