Movable Single-Axis Tracker Supports for Solar Array Shade Tuning
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing PV panel support systems are expensive, difficult to install, require significant manpower and equipment, occupy large spaces, and are not adaptable to changing sunlight conditions or vegetation needs, making them economically unviable and prone to damage from wind and snow.
Innovation Solution
A solar panel support system incorporating single axis trackers that can be selectively positioned to optimize sunlight incidence and shade for vegetation, with pods that can be manually or automatically displaced horizontally, using cable and column supports with rollers and motors for angular adjustment and horizontal movement.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If heavy metallic frame structures with substantial support posts and anchors are used, then the PV panels can withstand wind and snow loading, but the installation and maintenance costs increase significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies dynamics by making the support structure movable rather than fixed. The PV panels are mounted on a support structure that can be repositioned along the ground surface, allowing the system to adapt to changing environmental conditions such as wind and snow loads by adjusting its position rather than relying on extensive fixed structural support
Solution Approach 2:
The support structure is segmented into modular components including support posts, cables, and panel mounting elements that can be independently positioned and adjusted. This segmentation allows the system to achieve necessary structural integrity while reducing the total amount of material required compared to a continuous heavy frame structure
2Ease of manufacture
If static immovable support structures are used, then installation is simplified, but the system cannot adapt to changing sunlight conditions or vegetation needs
Solution Approach 1:
The support structure incorporates movable elements that allow the PV panels to be repositioned horizontally along the ground surface. This dynamic capability enables the system to adapt to changing sunlight conditions throughout the day and seasons, as well as to adjust for vegetation growth or other ground-level changes, while maintaining relatively simple installation procedures
Solution Approach 2:
The system allows for changes in the positional parameters of the PV panels along the ground surface. By varying the horizontal position of the panels, the system can optimize sunlight capture at different times and conditions without requiring complex mechanical adjustment mechanisms, thus maintaining ease of manufacture while gaining adaptability
3Stability of the object's composition
If conventional fixed support structures are used, then structural stability is maintained, but the system occupies large amounts of open space
Solution Approach 1:
The support structure uses segmented cable and post elements rather than continuous heavy framing. This segmentation allows the structure to achieve necessary stability through strategic placement of discrete support elements, thereby reducing the total ground area required compared to conventional fixed support structures that require extensive foundational space
Solution Approach 2:
The patent employs cables as flexible support elements rather than rigid structural members. These cable supports can span greater distances between anchor points, reducing the number of support posts needed and consequently reducing the total area occupied by the structure while maintaining adequate structural stability
Data Source
AI summary
The invention comprises embodiments of structural supports for solar panels installed within solar arrays. Some of the embodiments include a combination of cable and truss supports, and others include truss supports rigidly mounted to columns. Other embodiments include single axis tracker devices for mounting solar panels within a solar array of an installation. The devices can be roller mounted for selective horizontal displacement of the mounted solar panels at any desired location within the installation. The density or number of devices can also be adjusted within the installation to provide precise control of sunlight or shade for underlying vegetation.