Single-Axis Solar Panel Tracking for Irregular and Unstable Ground
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional solar panel tracking systems are inadequate for installations on irregular or unstable ground, such as aquatic sites with variable slopes, where perfect alignment between panels is difficult and conventional tracking solutions cannot be effectively implemented.
Innovation Solution
A single-axis solar panel tracking system with a local control unit, a tracking actuator mechanism, and a blockage unit, utilizing an electrical motor and nut mechanism for independent panel movement, allowing for flexible positioning and structural integrity compensation through hinge assemblies with round and slotted holes, enabling individual panel actuation and rotation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If conventional tracking systems are used, then perfect alignment between panels is achieved, but they cannot be effectively implemented on irregular or unstable ground
Solution Approach 1:
The system divides the support structure into multiple independent segments - a base platform and separate support stems that can be individually adjusted. This segmentation allows each component to adapt to irregular terrain independently while maintaining overall panel alignment, resolving the contradiction between terrain adaptability and alignment stability
Solution Approach 2:
The support stems are designed to be movable rather than fixed, allowing dynamic adjustment of the panel position. The stems can be repositioned along the base platform to accommodate varying ground conditions, enabling the system to maintain reliable alignment while adapting to irregular terrain through continuous adjustment capability
2Ease of operation
If multiple separate stems are used for tracking, then panel position adjustment is achieved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The system merges the base platform and support stems into an integrated structure where the stems are directly connected to the platform. This combination reduces the number of separate components compared to traditional multi-stem systems while maintaining full positioning capability, as the integrated design eliminates the need for additional connection mechanisms between separate elements
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
Enables efficient solar panel tracking in remote and challenging terrain conditions, allowing for optimal solar power generation by accommodating irregular sites without compromising panel structural integrity, even under wind or undulation loads.
Implementation Method 1
A tracking actuator mechanism comprising an electrical motor and a threaded shaft, the electrical motor being connected to the threaded shaft which in turn is connected to the nut mechanism of the blockage unit
Implementation Method 2
the flange bearing which are responsible for the friction reduction between these elements
Implementation Method 3
each of the two hinge assemblies have a different hinge support, one hinge assembly comprises a hinge with round hole and one hinge assembly comprises a hinge with slotted hole, the hinge with the slotted hole compensates the structure movements without compromising the panel structural integrity
Data Source
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AI summary
The present application describes a tracking system (1) for performing a movement control of a solar panel (2). For the purpose of this application, a single axis solar tracking solution is described, allowing an individual actuation of a solar panel (2) and its respective rotation axis. The tracking system (1) now developed is to be applied in an individual solar panel (2), and comprises a local control unit, an electrical motor (10), a tracking actuator mechanism (5), a blockage unit and a tracking support mechanism (3,4,6, 7,8,9). The approach now described is useful for solar power plant installations where individual panel tracking is an advantage due to site conditions such as irregular grounds or unstable locations as in aquatic sites or locations with variable slopes.