Pyramidal Solar Module Construction for Space-Efficient Energy Capture
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing solar module constructions are complex, costly to maintain, and inefficient in aligning panels optimally with the sun, leading to reduced energy yield due to shadowing and suboptimal space usage.
Innovation Solution
A modular, three-dimensional solar module construction featuring a pyramidal support unit with triangular base and lateral planes spanned by flexible material, allowing for optimal alignment and efficient space use, with photovoltaic units attached to the flexible material for easy installation and maintenance.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If solar panels are arranged in rows or spaced apart, then maintenance access is improved, but space utilization deteriorates due to unused interim spaces
Solution Approach 1:
The patent transitions from traditional two-dimensional row arrangements to a three-dimensional pyramidal structure. Solar panels are mounted on the lateral planes of pyramidal support units, utilizing vertical space and creating multiple orientations (different slopes and aspects) that capture sunlight from various directions throughout the day, thereby maximizing space utilization while maintaining access channels at the base of each pyramid.
2Productivity
If complex rotatable constructions are used to align panels with the sun, then energy capture is improved, but device complexity and maintenance cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the solar array into multiple independent pyramidal support units, each with panels on different lateral planes. Instead of using complex rotatable mechanisms for entire arrays, each pyramid is a self-contained segment with fixed panels oriented at different angles, collectively achieving optimal energy capture without requiring movement or rotation mechanisms.
Solution Approach 2:
The pyramidal shape with its sloping lateral planes creates a geometric configuration that passively captures sunlight from multiple directions throughout the day. The angled surfaces are designed to optimize solar exposure without requiring active adjustment mechanisms, replacing complex rotatable constructions with a simple geometric solution.
3Area of stationary object
If solar panels are densely arranged to maximize area coverage, then space utilization is improved, but shadowing between panels increases reducing energy yield
Solution Approach 1:
By arranging panels on the sloping lateral planes of pyramidal structures rather than flat horizontal surfaces, the invention creates vertical separation and angular diversity. This three-dimensional configuration reduces mutual shadowing between adjacent panels while maintaining high area coverage, as panels on different faces of pyramids are oriented at different angles and heights.
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 enables simple, efficient installation and maintenance of solar modules, maximizes energy yield by ensuring continuous exposure to solar radiation, and allows for adaptable configurations to fit various spaces, reducing shadowing and optimizing energy production.
Implementation Method 1
photovoltaic units (7) which are attached to the flexible material (6)
Data Source
AI summary
A solar module construction comprises at least one pyramidal support unit with a triangular base and triangular lateral planes as well as photovoltaic units provided on at least one of the lateral planes of the support unit. The support unit includes a supporting frame which spans the triangular base by means of base struts and the lateral planes by means of lateral struts. At least one of the lateral planes is stretched over with a flexible material. On at least one lateral plane photovoltaic units in the form of flexible solar modules are installed on the membrane. A multiplicity of such solar module constructions together forms a solar module array, preferably with solar module pairs, which are composed of two solar module constructions and form a parallelogram.