Vertically Hanging Bifacial PV Modules
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional solar electric modules are rigidly mounted to face south at a specific angle, requiring robust structures to withstand wind, snow, and hail, which increases costs and reduces efficiency, as they produce maximum power only at noon and are prone to soiling and bird resting places.
Innovation Solution
Vertically hanging bifacial PV modules that can swing freely in the wind, reducing the need for robust structures and allowing power generation on both sides during morning and evening, with mechanisms to dampen movement and reduce wind forces, eliminating the need for full frames and thick glass, and optimizing land use.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Use of energy by moving object
If PV modules are rigidly mounted to face south at a specific angle, then maximum sunlight is captured at noon, but the structure must be robust to withstand wind, snow, and hail, increasing costs
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies the dynamics principle by allowing PV modules to swing freely on a vertical axis rather than being rigidly fixed. The modules can rotate and adjust their orientation dynamically in response to wind forces, eliminating the need for robust structural support while maintaining energy capture effectiveness throughout the day
2Power
If PV modules are mounted to face south at an angle, then maximum power is produced at noon, but power output is nearly zero at dawn and dusk
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements continuity of useful action by enabling PV modules to continuously adjust their orientation throughout the day. The free-swinging mechanism allows modules to track the sun's movement from east to west, maintaining productive orientation during morning, noon, and evening hours rather than being fixed at a single south-facing angle
3Stability of the object's composition
If conventional rigid mounting is used, then modules are stable, but they are prone to soiling and bird resting places
Solution Approach 1:
The patent uses the dynamics principle to create motion that prevents soiling and bird accumulation. The free-swinging modules are constantly moving due to wind forces, which prevents dust and debris from settling and makes the surface unfavorable for bird resting, while the vertical mounting maintains adequate stability
4Power
If bifacial PV modules are used, then power generation on both sides is enabled, but the cost is only slightly higher than conventional modules
Solution Approach 1:
The patent enables bifacial modules to swing freely and rotate, allowing both front and rear surfaces to be exposed to sunlight at different times during the day. This dynamic positioning maximizes the utilization of both sides of the bifacial modules, justifying the slightly higher manufacturing cost through increased overall energy generation
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
This design reduces costs, increases annual energy harvest, minimizes soiling and bird resting, and lowers electrical equipment needs by 25%, while maintaining warranties and improving installation efficiency.
Implementation Method 1
bifacial photovoltaic or PV modules
Data Source
AI summary
The invention relates to a photovoltaic (PV) module or array of PV modules which are pivotally mounted from an upper edge and thus designed to hang under the force of gravity and to swing about the upper edge responsive to wind. The invention further includes various motion damping systems calibrated to limit or slow said swinging motion. The invention further includes a preferred mounting means comprising at least one ring or cylinder or sleeve or hinge attached to the upper edge of PV modules with a spring calibrated to limit or dampen the swinging motion.