Geared drive system providing intermittent motion
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Solution Overview
Problem
Solar tracking systems for PV modules face durability issues due to wear and corrosion, and provide low tracking resolution, leading to inefficiencies and increased costs from frequent component replacements.
Innovation Solution
The implementation of an intermittent-motion drive system that includes a drive wheel with a nub interfacing with notches on a drive chain, allowing for precise orientation adjustments and locking positions to reduce torque on components, thereby enhancing durability and tracking resolution.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If continuous motion drive system is used, then smooth operation is achieved, but wear and corrosion increase leading to reduced durability
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies periodic action by designing a drive system that moves the solar array in discrete intermittent steps rather than continuous motion. The drive chain includes engagement elements that interact with notches on the drive arc, creating periodic motion cycles where the array is positioned, locked, and then repositioned in subsequent cycles. This reduces wear by eliminating constant friction and motion-related corrosion.
2Measurement precision
If coarse tracking resolution is used, then simpler drive mechanisms are employed, but tracking precision and efficiency decrease
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies segmentation by dividing the continuous drive arc into discrete notched segments. Each notch represents a specific tracking position, and the drive chain's engagement elements interact with these segmented positions to achieve precise angular adjustments. This segmentation enables high tracking resolution while maintaining a relatively simple mechanical drive system without requiring complex control mechanisms.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent applies dynamics by designing a drive system that transitions between static locked positions and dynamic movement phases. The engagement elements can selectively engage with notches to lock the array in precise positions or disengage to allow movement to the next position. This dynamic capability enables precise tracking resolution while keeping the overall system mechanically simple.
3Force
If high torque is applied continuously, then powerful drive components are used, but wear and tear on components increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies periodic action by applying torque only during discrete movement phases rather than continuously. The drive system engages, applies torque to move the array to the next position, locks in place, and then remains stationary until the next cycle. This periodic application of torque significantly reduces cumulative wear and tear on drive components while maintaining the necessary force for repositioning.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent applies the extraction principle by removing the drive chain engagement elements from continuous contact with the drive arc. Instead of maintaining constant engagement, the system allows the engagement elements to disengage during locked positions and only re-engage when movement is required. This extraction of continuous contact reduces wear and tear on both the drive chain and drive arc components.
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 intermittent-motion drive system reduces wear and tear, increases tracking resolution, and decreases maintenance costs by isolating torque and using wear-resistant materials, while protecting components from corrosion.
Implementation Method 1
a drive wheel with a nub extending from a lateral surface of the drive wheel, the nub being shaped to interface with notches included along the third drive chain
Implementation Method 2
a first and a second protrusion shaped to interface with surfaces of the first and second drive chains, respectively
Data Source
AI summary
A mounting assembly may include an arced connecting member that includes a first drive chain along a bottom surface of the arced connecting member, a second drive chain positioned adjacent to the first drive chain, and a third drive chain in a gap between the first and the second drive chains. The mounting assembly may include an intermittent-motion drive system that has a drive wheel with a nub extending from a lateral surface of the drive wheel, the nub being shaped to interface with notches included along the third drive chain. The intermittent-motion drive system may include a first and a second protrusion shaped to interface with surfaces of the first and second drive chains, respectively. Rotation of a drive axle extending through the drive wheel may affect rotation of the drive wheel, rotational movement of the nub extending from the drive wheel, and movement of the arced connecting member.