Method For Outdoor Installation Of An Array Of Solar Converters, And Carriage Used In The Method

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing methods for outdoor installation of solar converter arrays, such as photovoltaic solar panels, are complex and costly, and struggle with efficiently positioning arrays on uneven terrain, posing safety risks and energy inefficiencies.

Innovation Solution

A carriage system equipped with a lifting device featuring two spaced lifters and an auxiliary supporting structure that can oscillate and tilt to adapt to terrain inclines, allowing for precise positioning and alignment of solar converter arrays on supporting posts, while also incorporating clamping devices for secure installation.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Adaptability or versatility

If a semi-trailer truck with cranes is used to transport and install solar panels, then the panels can be transported over long distances, but the system becomes very complex and costly, and the truck cannot reach rough terrain installation sites conveniently

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveability to reach installation sitesVSAvoidcomplexity of transport system
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The system is divided into separate functional modules: a simplified transport vehicle without cranes, and a dedicated installation platform with lifting and positioning equipment. This segmentation allows the transport vehicle to be simple and mobile, while the installation functions are concentrated on the platform that can be positioned at the installation site.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The patent introduces an intermediary installation platform that acts as a mediator between the transport vehicle and the final installation location. This platform carries the necessary lifting and positioning equipment, serving as an intermediate step that separates transport functions from installation functions, thereby simplifying both the transport vehicle and the overall system.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

2Ease of operation

If cranes keep the container in a high raised position during installation, then the array can be accessed, but energy consumption increases and safety problems arise for operators

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveaccessibility of solar arrayVSAvoidenergy consumption of cranes
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of operationVSUse of energy by moving object

Solution Approach 1:

The installation platform is positioned and prepared in advance at the optimal location near the installation site. The lifting device is pre-configured to lower the array directly to the supporting structure, eliminating the need for continuous high-position holding and reducing energy consumption while maintaining safety.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #10Preliminary action

Solution Approach 2:

The patent replaces the traditional crane system with a more efficient lifting mechanism integrated into the installation platform. This substitution uses a controlled lowering system that consumes less energy and provides better safety control compared to keeping the load in a high raised position.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

3Extent of automation

If a robot on a moving vehicle positions solar panels, then installation can be completely automatic, but the system complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveautomation of panel positioningVSAvoidcomplexity of robot and vehicle system
Core Design Contradiction:
Extent of automationVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The automated positioning function is segmented from the transport vehicle and integrated into the installation platform. This allows the vehicle to remain simple while the platform carries the specialized robotic positioning system, reducing overall system complexity while maintaining automation.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The installation platform serves as an intermediary that carries the automated positioning robot. This mediator approach allows the complex robotic system to be isolated on the platform rather than integrated into the transport vehicle, simplifying the overall system architecture while preserving full automation capability.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

Data Source

PatentUS20240001836A1Method For Outdoor Installation Of An Array Of Solar Converters, And Carriage Used In The Method
Publication Date: 2024.01.04 COMAU SPA
  • US20240001836A1 patent drawing
  • US20240001836A1 patent drawing
  • US20240001836A1 patent drawing

AI summary

A method for outdoor installation of an array of solar converters, for example photovoltaic solar panels or solar mirrors, and a carriage for transport and the outdoor installation of the array of solar converters. The array of solar converters is assembled including a supporting frame having a longitudinal beam and cross members which together engage and support the solar converters. The carriage includes a lifting device and an auxiliary support structure including clamping devices which receive the longitudinal beam of the assembled array. The carriage engages the assembled array and transports it to an installation field. The lifting device raises and deposits the assembled array on predetermined support posts. The lifting device is lowered to disengage the carriage from the installed array and the carriage returns to engage another assembled array for transport and installation.