Guardrail-Mounted Photovoltaic Module With Adjustable Panel Angle

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Solution Overview

Problem

Conventional solar cell panels are limited in their installation flexibility and aesthetics, as they are typically attached to roofs or outer walls, making it difficult to vary their angle relative to sunlight and resulting in a less appealing appearance for constructions.

Innovation Solution

A guardrail-mount type photovoltaic module that includes an upper and lower fixing frame, main and sub links, and an actuator, allowing the solar cell panel to be mounted on a guardrail and adjusted to various angles relative to the ground, enhancing installation flexibility and appearance.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Ease of manufacture

If solar cell panels are attached to roofs or outer walls, then they can be installed on constructions, but the outer appearance of the construction deteriorates

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveinstallation capabilityVSAvoidouter appearance
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of manufactureVSShape

Solution Approach 1:

The patent introduces a guardrail-mounted photovoltaic module as an intermediary solution. Instead of directly attaching panels to the roof or wall surface, the system uses a guardrail structure as a mediator that holds the solar cells at a distance from the construction surface, thereby preserving the aesthetic appearance while enabling power generation functionality.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

2Productivity

If solar cell panels are arranged perpendicular to sunlight, then photovoltaic efficiency is maximized, but installation flexibility is limited

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvephotovoltaic efficiencyVSAvoidinstallation flexibility
Core Design Contradiction:
ProductivityVSAdaptability or versatility

Solution Approach 1:

The patent employs a rotatable mounting mechanism that allows the solar cell panel to dynamically adjust its orientation. The panel can rotate around an axis to change its angle relative to sunlight, enabling it to track the sun's movement and maintain optimal perpendicular alignment throughout the day, thereby maximizing photovoltaic efficiency while adapting to different installation locations.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

3Productivity

If conventional solar cell panels are used, then power generation is achieved, but application ranges are limited to roofs and outer walls

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvepower generation capabilityVSAvoidapplication range
Core Design Contradiction:
ProductivityVSAdaptability or versatility

Solution Approach 1:

The patent creates a universal mounting system that can be applied to various construction types beyond just roofs and outer walls. By using a guardrail-mounted design with rotatable capability, the system can be installed on balconies, terraces, facades, and other vertical or inclined surfaces, greatly expanding the application range of photovoltaic power generation while maintaining the core power generation function.

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

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

Enables the installation of solar cell panels at various positions on buildings and structures while allowing easy adjustment of the angle for improved photovoltaic efficiency and a more aesthetically pleasing appearance.

Implementation Method 1

photovoltaic power generation uses characteristics of semiconductors to convert light energy into electrical energy

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectPhotovoltaic effect: Photovoltaic Effect

Data Source

PatentUS9169649B2Photovoltaic module attached to guardrail
Publication Date: 2015.10.27 LG HAUSYS LTD
  • US9169649B2 patent drawing
  • US9169649B2 patent drawing
  • US9169649B2 patent drawing

AI summary

Provided herein is a sunlight generated power device having an upper fixing frame, a lower fixing frame, a main link, and a sub link, which together form a four bar link, and an actuator. The power device may be used to form a photovoltaic module installed at a building, bridge, park, and the like. Solar cell panels positioned on the power device are easily adjustable to enhance photovoltaic efficiency. The power device may also be constructed to display a luxurious image by providing an elegant appearance.