Modular Photovoltaic Frame Design for Manual Alpine Installation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Photovoltaic installations face challenges such as harsh climate resilience, accessibility issues due to heavy transport and lifting requirements, visual impact concerns, and uneven sunlight exposure, particularly in alpine and tourist-oriented areas, necessitating a versatile and efficient solar product.
Innovation Solution
A modular system of flat photovoltaic modules with parallel posts and crosspieces, featuring a movable slot for easy module connection and housing of energy management devices, allowing for flexible orientation and integration of additional features like charging stations and communication devices, made from lightweight recyclable materials like wood, with screw foundation elements for easy installation and reconfiguration.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If traditional photovoltaic installations are used, then energy production is achieved, but heavy transport and lifting equipment is required for installation
Solution Approach 1:
The photovoltaic installation is divided into modular units, each consisting of two vertical posts connected by horizontal crosspieces with photovoltaic panels mounted between them. These self-contained modules can be transported and installed independently, eliminating the need for heavy lifting equipment while maintaining structural integrity and energy production capability.
2Adaptability or versatility
If multi-purpose photovoltaic systems are implemented, then versatility and functional integration are improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The modular photovoltaic structure is designed to serve multiple functions: energy generation through photovoltaic panels, housing for electronic devices in central slots, charging stations, lighting, and structural elements. The standardized module design with interchangeable components allows the same basic structure to fulfill different purposes without increasing overall system complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
Electronic devices and technical components are housed within central slots located between the photovoltaic panels, effectively nesting functional elements within the structural framework. This integration reduces the need for separate housings and mounting structures, thereby managing complexity while achieving multi-functionality.
3Productivity
If modules are designed for optimal lighting orientation, then energy production efficiency is improved, but adaptability to different locations and shading conditions decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The modular design allows for dynamic adjustment of panel orientation and spacing. Modules can be configured in various orientations (vertical, angled) and spaced at different intervals to optimize lighting conditions for each specific location. The standardized connection system enables rapid reconfiguration to adapt to changing environmental conditions such as shading from trees or buildings.
4Reliability
If photovoltaic panels are installed in alpine and mountainous areas, then renewable energy generation is achieved, but accessibility for installation and maintenance becomes difficult
Solution Approach 1:
By segmenting the photovoltaic system into small, lightweight modular units, each module can be manually carried and installed in remote alpine locations without requiring heavy machinery. The modular design maintains climate resilience through durable materials and protective configurations while enabling accessibility in difficult terrains.
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 creation of efficient, economical, and versatile photovoltaic installations that can be installed and maintained by one or two people without heavy lifting equipment, managing varying sunlight conditions and accommodating multiple uses, while minimizing environmental impact and visual impact.
Implementation Method 1
two photovoltaic panels - preferably bifacial - arranged vertically in a space delimited by the posts and the crosspieces
Data Source
Figure 1~2B
Figure 3
Figure 4~6
AI summary
A modular photovoltaic system comprising flat-plate modules with two photovoltaic panels—preferably bifacial—arranged vertically within a rectangular frame consisting of two posts and two crossbars. The panels are separated centrally by a slot, and the upper crossbar is interrupted by a removable element, allowing two modules to be interlocked in a cross configuration. The central space is used to house technical components, such as optimizers or inverters.