Rotatable Solar Panel Frame with Counterbalancing Load
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Solution Overview
Problem
Traditional solar panel devices face structural stability issues due to dynamic wind loads, torsional galloping, and heavy snow and ice loads, and are difficult to transfer from one location to another, leading to economic losses and limited flexibility in installation and leasing.
Innovation Solution
A solar panel device with a rotatable frame coupled to a support structure via attachment means along a rotational axis, allowing the frame to adjust its angle in response to external forces and featuring a connecting member that balances the frame with a load, enabling easy reorientation and transfer.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Stability of the object's composition
If ground-mount installations with heavy-duty foundations are used, then structural stability against wind and snow loads is improved, but transferability and relocation capability deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The solar panel device is divided into separate modular components: a support structure, a frame assembly, and a foundation assembly that can be detached from each other. This segmentation allows each component to be independently handled, transported, and reinstalled at different locations, resolving the contradiction between structural stability and transferability.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces dynamic adjustment capabilities through rotatable joints and adjustable mounting mechanisms that allow the solar panels to change their orientation and angle in response to varying environmental conditions. This dynamic adaptability enables the structure to maintain stability under different loads while facilitating easier relocation compared to fixed rigid installations.
2Strength
If heavy-duty foundations and rigid frames are used, then resistance to wind loads and snow loads is improved, but installation cost and complexity increase
Solution Approach 1:
By segmenting the structure into standardized modular components with simple connection interfaces, the patent reduces installation complexity while maintaining strength. Each module can be pre-assembled and tested independently, then quickly deployed at the installation site without requiring complex field assembly procedures.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent employs simplified, lightweight foundation elements and connection components that are easier and cheaper to install and replace compared to traditional heavy-duty permanent foundations. These simplified components provide adequate structural resistance for the application while significantly reducing installation time, labor costs, and overall system complexity.
3Force
If traditional ground-mount solar panel devices are installed, then structural support is provided, but ease of relocation and adaptability to different locations deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The solar panel device is divided into separate modular components: a support structure, a frame assembly, and a foundation assembly that can be detached from each other. This segmentation allows each component to be independently handled, transported, and reinstalled at different locations, resolving the contradiction between structural stability and transferability.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent applies different structural qualities to different parts of the system: the support structure uses lightweight materials optimized for portability, while the connection points and mounting mechanisms incorporate reinforced features for adequate structural support during operation. This localized optimization provides sufficient structural support where needed while maintaining overall ease of relocation.
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 provides enhanced structural stability and portability, allowing the solar panel device to withstand high wind forces and adjust for optimal energy harvesting, while minimizing installation costs and enabling easy relocation, thus reducing economic risks and increasing flexibility in installation and leasing.
Implementation Method 1
The solar panels use photovoltaic (PV) cells to convert the solar energy into electricity using photovoltaic effect
Implementation Method 2
at least one load coupled to the support structure and the at least one frame using the at least one connecting member... enabling the at least one load to align the at least one frame with respect to the support structure
Data Source
Figure 1A~1B
Figure 1C
Figure 2
AI summary
Disclosed is a solar panel device (100a, 100b, 600, 900) comprising support structure (102, 412, 602, 812, 902); frame(s) (104, 302, 408, 606, 904) adapted to enclose solar panel(s) (106), frame is rotatably coupled to the support structure (102); connecting member (108, 130, 132, 134, 610, 704, 906); load (110, 138, 140, 142, 608, 908) coupled to support structure and frame using connecting member, the connecting member has load attached thereto, connecting member move between the frame and the support structure for enabling load to align frame at given angle with ground surface on which support structure is arranged.