Movable Photovoltaic Module Supports for Weather Adaptation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing photovoltaic installations require extensive materials and complex structures to withstand severe weather conditions, leading to high costs and maintenance needs, and lack efficient mechanisms for module cleaning and coupling/decoupling.
Innovation Solution
A photovoltaic installation with movable module supports featuring a transfer mechanism for lateral displacement and a lifting mechanism for vertical positioning, coupled with a controller for automatic operation, allowing for efficient extension and retraction, and integration of cleaning systems and energy storage for added functionality.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If photovoltaic modules are exposed to severe weather conditions, then they must be designed with massive foundations and support systems, but this increases material requirements and costs
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a movable photovoltaic module support system that can dynamically change position between a retracted state (during severe weather) and an extended state (during favorable weather). This dynamic capability allows the system to adapt to weather conditions rather than requiring static over-engineering, thereby reducing material requirements while maintaining reliability.
Solution Approach 2:
The photovoltaic installation is divided into multiple independently movable module supports that can be controlled separately. Each module support can be retracted or extended based on local weather conditions, allowing selective protection rather than requiring the entire structure to be massively fortified against worst-case scenarios.
2Adaptability or versatility
If foldable PV modules are suspended between ropes with drive mechanisms, then they can be retracted in bad weather, but the support structures must be built strongly to absorb tensioning forces
Solution Approach 1:
The module supports are designed with movable elements that can dynamically adjust their position and configuration. The support structures incorporate movable joints and connection elements that allow the system to adapt to tensioning forces rather than requiring rigid, over-strengthened components throughout.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the mechanical parameters of the support structure by introducing movable elements with variable geometry. The support arms can change their effective length and orientation, allowing the structure to accommodate tensioning forces through geometric adaptation rather than requiring uniformly high strength throughout.
3Device complexity
If module supports are connected and cannot be separated, then the structure is simplified, but the mechanism for unfolding becomes complex and maintenance difficult
Solution Approach 1:
The module support system is segmented into standardized modular units that are connected through simple, standardized coupling mechanisms. This segmentation allows individual modules to be easily separated for maintenance or replacement while maintaining overall structural simplicity through repetition of the same basic unit.
Solution Approach 2:
The coupling mechanisms are designed as universal connectors that can join any module support to any other module support in the system. This universality simplifies the overall structure by using the same connection method throughout while facilitating easy assembly, disassembly, and maintenance of individual 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 solution reduces material requirements and maintenance costs, enhances module cleaning efficiency, and integrates additional functionalities like energy storage and electric vehicle charging, providing a cost-effective and efficient solar power solution.
Implementation Method 1
multiple movable photovoltaic module supports (1), wherein the module supports (1) are equipped at least on the top with one or more photovoltaic modules (49) that contain solar cells (7)
Data Source
AI summary
The invention relates to a solar power installation which is characterized in that the supports of the solar modules are stacked one above the other when in the “off” state and are extended by means of a transfer and lifting mechanism when in operating mode. The installation is also equipped with a controller which allows the installation to put the system into the safe off state in adverse conditions. The system is also advantageously suitable for stored energy sources and fueling electric vehicles.