Node, support frame, system and method
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing solar frame designs face challenges with long, single-piece chords that are difficult to handle, transport, and assemble, requiring large extrusion presses and inducing deflections that affect optical performance. Additionally, conventional CSP solar frames experience torque-related deflections and high installation costs due to manual assembly methods.
Innovation Solution
The use of segmented chords and nodes with a rolling rib drive mechanism, allowing for shorter, more flexible assembly and reduced frame weight, along with improved assembly efficiency through a moving mechanism for frame construction.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Device complexity
If long single-piece chords are used in solar frame design, then the frame structure can be simplified, but the chords become difficult to handle, transport and assemble
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the long chord into multiple shorter segmented chords that can be easily handled, transported and assembled. These segments are connected through nodes to form the complete chord structure, resolving the contradiction between structural simplicity and operational ease.
2Device complexity
If long single-piece chords are used, then fewer connection points are needed, but larger extrusion presses are required for production
Solution Approach 1:
By segmenting the chord into shorter sections, each segment can be produced using smaller, more widely available extrusion presses. The nodes serve as connection points between segments, distributing the manufacturing requirements across multiple smaller production units rather than requiring one large press.
Solution Approach 2:
The node acts as an intermediary component that connects the segmented chords. This allows the system to use smaller extrusion presses for producing both the chord segments and nodes separately, then assemble them into the complete frame structure.
3Ease of operation
If conventional nodes are used to connect frame members, then the frame can be assembled, but the nodes induce deflections that reduce optical performance
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs a rolling rib mechanism that allows dynamic adjustment and movement, reducing the rigid constraints that cause deflection in conventional fixed nodes. This dynamic approach maintains assembly capability while improving optical precision by reducing unwanted deflections.
4Device complexity
If frames closer to the drive are designed to withstand higher torques, then the drive mechanism can be simplified, but the frame members must be sized larger creating more deflection
Solution Approach 1:
The rolling rib mechanism introduces dynamic movement capability to the frame, allowing it to accommodate torque variations without requiring oversized members. This reduces deflection and improves optical performance while maintaining a simplified drive mechanism.
Data Source
AI summary
A node for connecting together at least a first support element, a second support element and a third support element of a support frame such as a solar frame which supports solar reflectors. A method for connecting together at least a first support element, a second support element and a third support element of a solar frame which supports solar reflectors. A system for supporting solar reflectors includes a first support frame upon which the solar reflectors are disposed. A method for forming a support frame for solar reflectors. A system for constructing a support frame from parts, including chords, for solar reflectors. A method for constructing a support frame for solar reflectors. A support frame for solar reflectors.