Sliding Solar Module Tracking for Inclined Surface Installation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional fixed-type solar energy systems suffer from reduced overall condensing efficiency due to fixed directional installation, which does not account for variations in the sun's altitude or orbit, and have a weak fixing structure prone to wind and load damage, potentially harming the environment with concrete bases.
Innovation Solution
A sliding-type solar energy apparatus that tracks the sun's direction using a light tracking and driving controller, pivots a solar module plate, and features a frame structure for firm fixation to inclined surfaces without a concrete base, incorporating a motor, rack pinion system, and roller guides for optimal sunlight condensation and structural stability.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of manufacture
If a fixed-type solar energy system is installed to face one direction, then the initial installation cost is low and the structure is simple, but the overall condensing efficiency is reduced due to inability to track sunlight variations
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies the dynamics principle by transitioning from a fixed-type structure to a sliding-type structure that can move horizontally along tracks. The solar module plate is mounted on a movable platform that slides along upper and lower tracks, enabling the system to dynamically adjust its position and angle to track sunlight variations throughout the day and across seasons, thereby resolving the contradiction between installation simplicity and condensing efficiency.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent segments the solar energy system into multiple independent components: a base structure, movable platforms, solar module plates, tracking mechanisms with motors and rails, and support structures. This segmentation allows each component to be optimized independently - the base remains simple for easy installation while the movable platforms provide tracking capability, thus resolving the contradiction between installation simplicity and tracking efficiency.
2Ease of manufacture
If a conventional fixing structure is used for solar module plates, then the installation is straightforward, but the structure is weak against wind and load
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies local quality by differentiating the structural properties at different locations. The base structure and mounting points are designed with enhanced strength and rigidity to withstand wind and load, while the solar module plate mounting allows for easy installation and removal. The tracking mechanism incorporates robust motors and rails at critical positions to provide both strength and ease of operation, resolving the contradiction between installation ease and structural strength.
3Strength
If a concrete base is used for fixing the solar energy system, then the structure is stable against wind and load, but it causes environmental harm
Solution Approach 1:
The patent converts the potential harm of concrete bases (environmental damage) into a beneficial alternative by using a metal frame structure with adjustable legs that can be firmly anchored to the ground without concrete. The system achieves structural stability through a combination of weighted base, adjustable support legs, and friction-based anchoring, eliminating the need for concrete while maintaining wind and load resistance, thus transforming an environmentally harmful solution into an eco-friendly one.
4Adaptability or versatility
If a fixed-type system is installed on inclined ground, then the installation area is flexible, but the condensing efficiency is compromised due to fixed orientation
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies dynamics by enabling the solar module plate to dynamically adjust its orientation and position on inclined surfaces. The movable platform can slide along inclined tracks while maintaining optimal sunlight exposure angles, and the tracking mechanism compensates for the initial incline to ensure the solar panels face the correct direction throughout the day, thus maintaining both installation flexibility on varied terrains and high condensing efficiency.
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 apparatus maximizes sunlight condensation efficiency by tracking the sun's movement and provides a robust structure against wind and load, eliminating environmental concerns associated with concrete bases while allowing easy installation on inclined surfaces.
Implementation Method 1
sunlight generation indicates a generation method for converting sunlight directly into electric power via a solar battery
Implementation Method 2
a motor which is formed on the lower structure
Implementation Method 3
a rack pinion which converts a rotational motion of the motor into a linear motion
Data Source
AI summary
There is provided an apparatus for tracking and condensing sunlight of a sliding type which tracks a direction of sunlight according to variations of an altitude or orbit of the sun pivots a solar module plate to maximize condensing efficiency, and strengthens a fixing structure on an inclined ground or inclined building surface by suing a frame structure on the bottom without using a concrete base harmful to natural environment.