Rotating PV Panel Bridge for Robot Transfer Across Misaligned Tables
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing robotic cleaning solutions for PV panels face challenges in navigating between tables due to misalignments and tilting, which prevents efficient cleaning and requires tailored solutions for each setup.
Innovation Solution
A bridge system comprising a body movably coupled to PV panel holders, allowing the body to rotate and extend to form a stopper, thereby preventing the cleaning robot from progressing when misalignment exceeds a certain threshold.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a fixed bridge structure is used to connect two PV panel tables, then the robot can move between tables, but the bridge cannot accommodate misalignments and tilting movements
Solution Approach 1:
The bridge incorporates a movable body that can rotate around a first axle connected to the first PV panel holder. This dynamic mechanism allows the bridge to adapt to misalignments and tilting movements between tables while maintaining a relatively simple overall structure. The rotational capability enables the bridge to accommodate varying distances and angular positions without requiring complex adjustable components.
2Adaptability or versatility
If the bridge allows free movement to accommodate misalignment, then adaptability improves, but the robot cannot be stopped when misalignment exceeds threshold
Solution Approach 1:
The bridge includes a stopper mechanism that preemptively prevents the robot from proceeding when misalignment exceeds a safe threshold. The stopper is positioned to extend above the first PV panel holder when the body rotates to its second position, creating a physical barrier before the robot can encounter dangerous misalignment conditions. This preliminary protective action ensures robot safety while maintaining adaptability within safe operating ranges.
3Manufacturing precision
If a custom bridge solution is designed for each specific table configuration, then perfect fit is achieved, but manufacturing cost and complexity increase significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The bridge is designed as a universal component that can accommodate various table configurations, misalignment distances, and angular positions through its rotational mechanism. The body can rotate around the first axle to adapt to different positions, and the detachable second interface allows connection to various second PV panel holders. This multi-functional design eliminates the need for custom-built bridges for each configuration, significantly simplifying manufacturing while maintaining precise fit.
Data Source
AI summary
A bridge that may include a first photovoltaic (PV) panel holder, a second PV panel holder; and a body. The body is movably coupled, via a first interface, to the first PV panel holder and is detacheably coupled to the second PV panel holder, wherein the body is configured to move between a first position to a second position when the second PV panel holder is detached from the body, wherein when positioned at the second position, a portion of the body extends above the first PV panel holder.