Rack, especially for photovoltaic modules
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing photovoltaic module racks are inefficient due to limitations in panel size, high production costs, and energy consumption, especially in adverse weather conditions, leading to low return on investment and negative environmental impact.
Innovation Solution
A rotary rack design featuring a modular, sectionally bent guide with a driving chain mechanism and track rollers that allows for multiple rotational movements and adjustments to optimize solar panel angles, eliminating the need for a central column and reducing energy demand and production costs.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Stability of the object's composition
If a centrally located column construction is used to maintain centric bearing, then the structural stability is improved, but the production costs and device complexity increase significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The patent removes the central column from the structure entirely, replacing it with a distributed bearing system where multiple guides support the rack. This extraction eliminates the complexity associated with central column construction while distributing the load-bearing function across multiple simpler elements.
Solution Approach 2:
The structure is divided into multiple independent guides instead of relying on a single central column. Each guide operates independently, simplifying the overall design and reducing complexity while maintaining structural stability through distributed support points.
2Productivity
If the rack is designed to accommodate more photovoltaic modules, then the energy generation capacity is improved, but the production costs and investment requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The rack uses modular guides and standardized components that can be replicated to accommodate different numbers of modules. This segmentation allows scaling up capacity without proportionally increasing production costs, as the same basic elements are reused throughout the structure.
Solution Approach 2:
The guides and support structures are designed with universal functionality to accommodate various module configurations and sizes. This multi-functionality reduces the need for specialized components, thereby lowering production costs while maintaining high energy generation capacity.
3Device complexity
If fixed positioning of photovoltaic panels is used, then the device complexity is reduced, but the energy generation efficiency decreases due to inability to optimize solar angles
Solution Approach 1:
The rack enables dynamic adjustment of panel angles through simple mechanical actuators that change the inclination of modules relative to the horizontal plane. This dynamic capability allows optimization of solar angles throughout the day and year, significantly improving energy generation efficiency without adding substantial complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The system pre-positions panels at optimal angles for different times of day and seasonal variations. By anticipating solar position changes and adjusting angles in advance, the system maximizes energy capture while using simple, low-complexity adjustment mechanisms.
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 increases energy efficiency by 38% and reduces investment and space requirements, enabling precise solar angle adjustments and improved stability against wind, while simplifying construction and logistics.
Implementation Method 1
A driving mechanism is attached to the guide, the driving mechanism consisting of a driving toothed element, connected to a motor, and of tensioning rollers, through which the driving chain is drawn
Implementation Method 2
The shaft is preferably seated at both its ends movably by means of linear bearings, which makes it possible for the entire set to axially slide together with the shaft in relation to the housing so as to remedy the deficiencies in the shape of the guide or the changes caused by the difference in the ambient temperature
Implementation Method 3
changes caused by the difference in the ambient temperature
Implementation Method 4
a main frame is fitted via a bearing-fitted grip on the guide 1
Data Source
AI summary
A rack, especially for photovoltaic modules, consists of a rounded, shaped guide, on which a main frame is fitted via at least three bearing-fitted grips, with an upper frame being attached to the top of the main frame in at least two support points, the upper frame being further connected to the main frame via linear actuators. The main frame is based on the guide by means of track rollers, whose number is equal to the number of support points, and at least two anchoring elements are located on the outer perimeter of the guide, the anchoring elements arranged in at least two points within an angular distance not smaller than 15 degrees from each other. A driving chain is anchored in a non-stationary fashion on anchoring elements to the guide, from the outer side of the guide and in the lower part of the guide, and a driving mechanism is attached to the main frame, the driving mechanism consisting of a driving toothed element, connected to a motor, and of tension rollers.