Kirigami-based multi-axis tracking devices and systems
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional solar tracking systems are costly, complex, and unsuitable for residential rooftops due to their large and heavy design, which limits their deployment and efficiency in solar energy harvesting, especially with narrow acceptance angles and high semiconductor material requirements.
Innovation Solution
A kirigami-based multi-axis tracking system with a support structure featuring concentric cuts that deform into a three-dimensional spring-like structure, allowing for tilting of concentrators and solar sensors along multiple axes, reducing the need for precise tracking and semiconductor material while maintaining optical efficiency.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If conventional solar tracking systems are used, then tracking precision is improved, but device complexity and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent changes the geometric parameters of the support structure by introducing concentric circular cuts with specific radial distances and angular spacings. This transforms the structure's mechanical properties, enabling it to achieve multi-axis tracking functionality through simple lateral displacement rather than complex mechanical actuators, thereby reducing device complexity while maintaining tracking capability
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces complex mechanical tracking systems with a kirigami-based compliant mechanism that uses lateral displacement of the support structure to induce tilting of the insert assembly. This substitution eliminates the need for complex motors, gears, and control systems while achieving the same tracking function through geometric transformation
2Adaptability or versatility
If conventional solar tracking systems are used, then tracking ability is improved, but weight increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs a thin, flexible support structure with concentric circular cuts that can laterally displace and deform. This flexible kirigami structure replaces heavy rigid mechanical components, achieving multi-axis tracking through elastic deformation and geometric transformation, thereby significantly reducing the weight of the tracking system
Solution Approach 2:
The patent creates a dynamic, deformable support structure that can laterally displace and transform its geometry in response to actuator movement. This dynamic behavior enables the structure to convert simple lateral motion into complex multi-axis tilting of the insert assembly, achieving tracking ability without heavy mechanical components
3Quantity of substance
If high concentration factor is used, then semiconductor material usage is reduced, but acceptance angle narrows
Solution Approach 1:
The patent creates a dynamic support structure that can laterally displace to adjust the orientation of the insert assembly. This dynamic adjustment capability allows the system to maintain optimal tracking of solar radiation over broader angles while using a high concentration factor, as the structure can reposition itself to capture radiation from different directions
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces lateral displacement as an additional degree of freedom to the traditional single-axis tilting system. By adding this dimensional movement, the system can achieve multi-axis tracking capability that broadens the acceptance angle while maintaining high concentration factor, as the insert assembly can be positioned optimally in multiple directions
4Measurement precision
If conventional tracking systems are used, then tracking precision is improved, but cost increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent uses a simple, easily manufacturable kirigami support structure with concentric circular cuts that can be produced at low cost. This inexpensive structure replaces expensive mechanical tracking systems, achieving adequate tracking precision through geometric transformation rather than complex mechanics, thereby reducing overall system cost
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces expensive mechanical tracking systems with a kirigami-based compliant mechanism that uses simple lateral displacement to achieve tilting. This substitution eliminates the need for costly motors, gears, and control systems while maintaining tracking precision through geometric transformation, thereby reducing device complexity and cost
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 system achieves increased energy collection by tracking solar radiation over a broader angle, reducing semiconductor material usage, and is scalable, lightweight, and cost-effective, suitable for both small and large arrays, including residential installations.
Implementation Method 1
The ancient Japanese arts of origami (folding) and kirigami (cutting) have provided a versatile conceptual framework for transforming relatively easily manufactured two-dimensional patterns into three-dimensional structures
Implementation Method 2
The insert assembly includes a concentrator and an active device, the concentrator being a reflective device configured to concentrate emissions from a source to a focal point
Implementation Method 3
The active device is positioned at the focal point and configured to capture the concentrated emissions
Data Source
AI summary
A device includes a support structure having a plurality of concentric cuts through the support structure that define a set of structure sections. The device also includes an insert assembly supported by the support structure at an inner structure section of the set of structure sections. The inner structure section is configured to tilt the insert assembly at a tilt angle in accordance with a displacement of a first outer structure section of the set of structure sections.