Single-Axis Solar Panel Tracking for Irregular and Aquatic Terrain
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional solar panel tracking systems are ineffective in irregular or unstable terrain conditions, such as aquatic sites with variable slopes, where perfect alignment between panels is difficult and conventional tracking solutions cannot be installed.
Innovation Solution
A single-axis solar panel tracking system with a local control unit, tracking actuator mechanism, blockage unit, and support mechanism, allowing independent movement of each solar panel, utilizing an electrical motor, threaded shaft, and nut mechanism for precise positioning and structural stability, with hinge assemblies compensating for misalignment and external loads.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If conventional tracking systems are installed, then perfect alignment between panels is achieved, but installation is impossible in irregular or unstable terrain conditions
Solution Approach 1:
The system divides the tracking function into independent individual panel units, each with its own actuator mechanism. This segmentation allows each panel to independently adapt to terrain irregularities while maintaining proper alignment through autonomous tracking control, resolving the contradiction between adaptability to irregular terrain and alignment precision.
Solution Approach 2:
The system implements dynamic tracking capability where each panel can independently adjust its position in real-time to compensate for terrain variations. The actuator mechanisms enable continuous positional adjustment, allowing the system to maintain optimal alignment despite unstable or irregular ground conditions, thus achieving both adaptability and reliability.
2Adaptability or versatility
If individual panel actuation is implemented, then optimal tracking in remote locations is achieved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The system employs universal actuator mechanisms that can be standardized across all panel units. Each actuator serves multiple functions: positioning the panel, maintaining alignment, and adapting to terrain variations. This multi-functionality reduces overall system complexity despite individual panel actuation, as the same standardized components are reused throughout the system.
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 tracking of solar panels in remote and aquatic locations with significant terrain slopes, ensuring optimal solar power generation by allowing individual panel actuation and rotation, maintaining structural integrity despite external factors like wind and undulation.
Implementation Method 1
an electrical motor; a threaded shaft which is assembled to the blockage unit; a lock pin; a flange bearing, wherein, the electrical motor promotes the rotation of the threaded shaft by means of the lock pin and the flange bearing
Implementation Method 2
a threaded shaft which is assembled to the blockage unit; a blockage unit comprises a nut mechanism which blocks the movement of the threaded shaft
Data Source
AI summary
A tracking system for performing a movement control of a solar panel is provided, having a single axis solar tracking solution allowing an individual actuation of a solar panel and its respective rotation axis. The tracking system is applied in an individual solar panel, and has a local control unit, an electrical motor, a tracking actuator mechanism, a blockage unit and a tracking support mechanism, which 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.