Single-Panel Solar Tracker With Stepper-Lead Screw Azimuth Control
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing solar tracking systems are not cost-effective for single solar panels and are not well-suited for residential roof integration, as they are designed for groups of panels and require complex mounting on the ground.
Innovation Solution
A two-axis solar tracking system using integrated stepping motors and lead screw actuators provides structural support and two degrees of freedom for a single solar panel, with an optional single-axis configuration for reduced complexity and cost, focusing on precise azimuth tracking.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If existing solar tracking systems are used for single solar panels, then solar tracking function is achieved, but cost-effectiveness deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the solar tracking system into modular components: a base frame, a subframe with pivot shafts, and individual solar panel mounts. This segmentation allows the system to be scaled to single-panel applications while maintaining functionality, reducing the overall cost compared to adapting large multi-panel systems.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent modifies the structural parameters of traditional tracking systems by using lighter materials and simplified support structures suitable for single-panel applications. The base frame and subframe are designed with optimized dimensions and thicknesses that reduce material costs while maintaining sufficient structural integrity for single-panel wind loads.
2Reliability
If existing solar tracking systems are used for single solar panels, then solar tracking function is achieved, but structural complexity deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts and removes unnecessary structural components from traditional multi-panel tracking systems. By eliminating the need for heavy-duty support structures, concrete block foundations, and complex mounting hardware designed for groups of panels, the system achieves the same tracking function with significantly reduced structural complexity suitable for residential roof integration.
Solution Approach 2:
Instead of adapting large ground-mounted systems down to single-panel scale, the patent inverts the approach by designing the tracking mechanism from the ground up for single-panel applications. This reversal allows for optimization of structural complexity specifically for residential roof integration rather than attempting to simplify existing commercial systems.
3Measurement precision
If two-axis solar tracking system is used, then tracking accuracy is improved, but mechanical force management becomes more difficult
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the azimuth and elevation adjustment mechanisms into a compact integrated structure. The base frame incorporates both the azimuth rotation mechanism and elevation adjustment mechanism in close proximity, allowing the motors and lead screw actuators to work in coordination without requiring separate heavy-duty mounting structures for each axis.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces complex mechanical force management systems with integrated electric motors and lead screw actuators for both azimuth and elevation control. This substitution of mechanical systems with electromechanical systems simplifies force management while maintaining precise two-axis tracking accuracy suitable for single-panel applications.
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 system increases electrical output by efficiently managing mechanical forces and reducing complexity, offering a cost-effective solution for single solar panel tracking while maintaining high accuracy and energy improvement.
Implementation Method 1
lead screw actuators that provides the necessary structural support and two degrees of freedom in the motion of the solar collector
Implementation Method 2
integrated stepping motors and lead screw actuators
Data Source
AI summary
The disclosed invention is a solar tracker that is a simple 2 axis system that can be powered with integrated stepping motors and lead screw actuators that provides the necessary structural support and 2 degrees of freedom in the motion of the solar collector, to increase the electrical output of the system. Since the solution is designed for use with only one solar panel the mechanical forces such as wind load are much lower and easier to manage. The disclosed invention is also a solar tracker that is a single axis version where the base is fixed and the elevation is set at an average value for the location and pivoting mechanism operates the azimuth axis. Since the dominant energy improvement comes from tracking the azimuth, this would be a likely solution where a lower cost or less complex system is desired.