Multi-Part Bracket for Cross-Manufacturer Solar Tracker Compatibility
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Solution Overview
Problem
Solar panel installation in solar farms faces challenges such as the need for trained crews, repetitive tasks leading to human error, and interference from weather and bad conditions, with no uniform solar tracker and module existing, resulting in inefficiencies and errors.
Innovation Solution
A multiple part bracket system adaptable to different solar tracker manufacturers, allowing for mechanical and electrical connections, used with an autonomous ground vehicle and robotic arm to autonomously install solar panels, combining panel mounting and wire stringing into a single pass, and providing a standardized attachment method.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If traditional manual installation methods are used, then workers can install solar panels, but installation time is prolonged and human errors increase due to repetitive tasks and lack of standardization
Solution Approach 1:
The bracket system is designed to be self-aligning and self-latching, allowing the solar panel to automatically engage with the bracket without requiring precise manual positioning. The L-shaped configuration with perpendicular arms naturally guides the panel into place, and the spring-loaded or cam-based latching mechanism automatically secures it, eliminating the need for complex manual adjustment and reducing human error.
Solution Approach 2:
The bracket incorporates adjustable parameters such as movable latching points, variable arm lengths, and flexible mounting positions that can be adapted to different solar panel specifications and installation requirements. This adjustability allows the same bracket design to accommodate various panel types while maintaining consistent, error-free installation through standardized motions.
2Adaptability or versatility
If custom brackets are designed for each solar tracker manufacturer, then precise fit is achieved, but device complexity and variety of components increase
Solution Approach 1:
The bracket is designed as a universal component that can interface with multiple solar tracker manufacturers' equipment through standardized mounting interfaces. The L-shaped configuration with perpendicular arms can accommodate various tracker arm geometries, and the adjustable latching mechanism adapts to different panel types, allowing a single bracket design to serve multiple functions across different installation scenarios.
Solution Approach 2:
The bracket is divided into modular segments including the L-shaped main body, adjustable latching arms, and interchangeable mounting components. This segmentation allows individual parts to be adjusted or replaced without changing the entire bracket assembly, enabling adaptation to different tracker types while maintaining a consistent overall design framework.
3Productivity
If multiple separate steps are used for panel mounting and wire stringing, then each task can be completed thoroughly, but installation time increases
Solution Approach 1:
The bracket design integrates both mechanical mounting and electrical connection functions into a single unified component. The L-shaped configuration incorporates both the structural support elements for panel attachment and the electrical contact points for wire stringing, allowing workers to complete both tasks simultaneously in one installation motion rather than requiring separate operations.
Solution Approach 2:
The bracket serves multiple functions concurrently: it provides mechanical support, enables panel attachment, facilitates electrical connection, and allows for adjustment. This multi-functionality consolidates what would traditionally require multiple separate components and operations into a single integrated solution, improving efficiency without sacrificing operational simplicity.
Data Source
AI summary
A multiple part bracket can be constructed to provide an electrical power connection and a mechanical attachment. The multiple part bracket includes an upper portion and a lower portion of the bracket constructed to be assembled together on an arm of a solar tracker in the field. The lower portion is adaptable in shape and dimensions to attach onto solar trackers from two or more different manufacturers in order to mechanically capture a solar panel module on the arm and to retain the solar panel module in place on the arm of the solar tracker. The multiple part bracket can be used with an autonomous ground vehicle with a robotic arm in order to autonomously install the multiple part bracket onto a solar tracker with the robotic arm.