Heliostat Slew Drive Layout for Balanced Tracking Installation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Heliostat tracking systems with dual-rotary mechanisms face issues of weight concentration leading to overloading and tipping, complicating installation direction distinction and slowing down the installation process.
Innovation Solution
A solar thermal rotary drive system with a horizontal rotary mechanism and a pitch rotary mechanism, where the worms are arranged horizontally and perpendicularly, featuring dual-sided bearing support, sealed oil storage, and perpendicular motor installation, enhancing stability and simplifying installation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If two motors are arranged horizontally and in parallel in the dual-rotary mechanism, then the heliostat tracking system can achieve sun tracking function, but the weight of the structure is concentrated on one side of the column, causing overloading and tipping risks
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies asymmetry by arranging the two motors in perpendicular directions rather than parallel, creating an asymmetric weight distribution pattern that balances the load on the column. The first motor and first worm are arranged along one axis while the second motor and second worm are arranged perpendicular to them, preventing weight concentration on one side.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent transitions from a two-dimensional parallel arrangement to a three-dimensional perpendicular arrangement. By positioning the motors and worms in different spatial dimensions (perpendicular to each other), the system achieves better weight distribution and structural balance while maintaining the dual-rotary tracking function.
2Reliability
If two motors are arranged horizontally and in parallel, then the dual-rotary mechanism functions, but it is not conducive for users to distinguish installation direction, affecting on-site installation and commissioning
Solution Approach 1:
The asymmetric perpendicular arrangement creates distinct spatial orientations for the two motors, making it easier for installers to identify and distinguish installation directions. The perpendicular configuration provides clear directional cues that are more intuitive than parallel arrangements.
Solution Approach 2:
Each motor assembly (motor + worm) is given a distinct local orientation perpendicular to the other, creating unique directional characteristics at each location. This local differentiation helps users quickly identify correct installation orientations during on-site commissioning.
3Reliability
If the worms are arranged horizontally and perpendicularly with dual-sided bearing support and sealed oil storage, then leakage risks are reduced and component life is extended, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the bearing support function with the housing structure by implementing dual-sided bearing support within the same housing that also contains the sealed oil storage. This integration reduces the need for separate components and simplifies the overall structure despite the enhanced 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
Facilitates quicker and more stable on-site installation, reduces leakage risks, extends component life, and lowers production costs through improved weight distribution and sealing, while maintaining high control accuracy and stability.
Implementation Method 1
the first worm wheel and the first worm are both installed in the first installation cavity, and the first worm wheel and the first worm are connected; and when the first worm drives the first worm wheel to rotate
Implementation Method 2
a first bearing is sleeved outside the annular boss, and the first bearing is located between the annular boss and the first worm wheel in a radial direction
Data Source
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AI summary
A solar thermal rotary drive and a heliostat tracking system are disclosed, comprising a horizontal rotary mechanism and a pitch rotary mechanism. The horizontal rotary mechanism comprises a first housing, and a first worm wheel and a first worm installed therein. The pitch rotary mechanism comprises a second housing, and a second worm wheel and a second worm installed therein. The second housing is fixed to the first worm wheel. When the first worm rotationally drives the first worm wheel, the first worm wheel rotationally drives the pitch rotary mechanism. The first and second worms are horizontal. When the horizontal rotary mechanism and the pitch rotary mechanism are in an initial state, the first and second worms are arranged perpendicularly, facilitating on-site installation and commissioning. The installation direction is better distinguished. Further, the swing amplitude of the wire is smaller, improving the life of the wire.