Rotating Shade Panel Arrays for Wind-Resistant Sun Tracking
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Current shade devices provide only partial shade, are cumbersome to adjust, and are susceptible to wind loads, while also lacking integration with solar energy production opportunities.
Innovation Solution
A shading apparatus with rotating panel arrays that adjust to provide full shade over time, minimize wind load, and incorporate solar panels for energy production, utilizing a ganging assembly and linear actuator for positional control and wind resistance optimization.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Area of stationary object
If traditional umbrella-style configurations with sail-like canopies are used, then shade coverage is provided, but wind load susceptibility increases
Solution Approach 1:
The canopy is divided into multiple modular panels that can be independently adjusted and repositioned. Each panel can be separately tilted and rotated to optimize both shade coverage and wind resistance, allowing the structure to segment its surface area to reduce wind load while maintaining overall coverage.
Solution Approach 2:
The shading device incorporates adjustable and repositionable panels that can dynamically change their orientation and position in response to varying wind conditions and sun positions. This dynamic capability allows the structure to adapt its configuration to minimize wind load while maintaining effective shade coverage.
2Ease of manufacture
If fixed shade structures are used, then installation simplicity is maintained, but adaptability to sun movement decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The panels are designed with adjustable mounting mechanisms that allow them to be repositioned to different angles and orientations. This dynamic adjustability enables the fixed structure to adapt its configuration throughout the day to track sun movement and optimize shade coverage without requiring complex active control systems.
3Use of energy by moving object
If solar panels are integrated into the shading device, then energy production capability is added, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The shading panels are designed to serve multiple functions: providing shade coverage, generating solar energy, and allowing for adjustable positioning. By integrating solar panels directly into the shading structure itself rather than as separate components, the design achieves multi-functionality without significantly increasing overall device complexity.
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 continuous, full shade and reduces wind resistance while enabling solar energy production, with automated sun tracking and wind-safe configurations, enhancing usability and safety in outdoor spaces.
Implementation Method 1
incorporate solar panels for energy production
Data Source
AI summary
A shading apparatus with panels configured to provide shade volume over time, reduce wind load, and optionally generate solar energy. The shading apparatus with panels has first panel and second panel arrays. The first panel array moves up and down using a ganging assembly and linear actuator. The second panel array is fixed opposite the first panel array. Both panel arrays are connected to a rotateable spindle and central post. The shading apparatus is configured to reduce wind load with offset panels that provide passages between the offsets. Embodiments include control logic with various modes, including a mode for orienting the panels orthogonal to the sun over a period of time.