Solar Module Layout for Irregular Terrain

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Solution Overview

Problem

Large-scale solar power generation sites, particularly mega solar power plants, face inefficiencies due to non-uniform solar light reception conditions and irregular terrain, leading to wasted space and reduced power generation efficiency when conventional string-based module installations are used on areas with undulating or sloped surfaces.

Innovation Solution

A method of densely laying solar modules with varying numbers and angles on irregularly shaped terrain, using a combination of one-unit, standard, and n-unit module sets, along with random installation angles to maximize space utilization and optimize solar light reception, coupled with a monitoring system for efficient maintenance and power output management.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Ease of manufacture

If conventional string-based module installation is used on irregular terrain, then installation simplicity is maintained, but space utilization and power generation efficiency deteriorate

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveinstallation simplicityVSAvoidpower generation efficiency

Core Design Contradiction:

Ease of manufactureVSProductivity

Solution Approach 1:

The solar array is divided into multiple independent modules that can be installed separately on irregular terrain. Each module can be positioned independently to maximize space utilization while maintaining installation simplicity through modular assembly units.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The patent transitions from fixed-string installation to multi-dimensional module placement, allowing modules to be arranged in various orientations and positions across the terrain surface, effectively utilizing three-dimensional space rather than being constrained to linear string configurations.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #17Another dimension (Dimensionality change)

2Area of stationary object

If modules are densely laid on irregular terrain with varying angles, then space utilization improves, but installation complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvespace utilizationVSAvoidinstallation complexity

Core Design Contradiction:

Area of stationary objectVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent varies installation parameters such as module angles, positions, and orientations to adapt to irregular terrain. By changing these parameters dynamically rather than using fixed installation configurations, the system achieves high space utilization while managing complexity through parameter optimization.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #35Parameter changes

Solution Approach 2:

Different modules are installed with different local characteristics (angles, orientations, positions) suited to their specific terrain locations. This local optimization allows each module to maximize its energy reception while collectively achieving high overall space utilization without requiring uniform complex installation procedures.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #3Local quality

3Stability of the object's composition

If fixed string configuration is used, then structural simplicity is maintained, but adaptability to irregular terrain deteriorates

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvestructural simplicityVSAvoidterrain adaptability

Core Design Contradiction:

Stability of the object's compositionVSAdaptability or versatility

Solution Approach 1:

The patent introduces dynamic adaptability to the solar array configuration, allowing modules to be positioned and oriented according to terrain variations. This dynamic approach replaces fixed string configurations with flexible module arrangements that can adapt to irregular surfaces while maintaining structural simplicity through standardized module units.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #15Dynamics

Solution Approach 2:

The modular design creates universal installation units that can be deployed in various configurations across different terrain types. Each module serves multiple potential positions and orientations, providing versatility in terrain adaptation while maintaining structural simplicity through repeated use of standardized components.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

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

This approach significantly increases power generation efficiency by allowing nearly twice as many modules to be installed on a given area, effectively utilizing irregular terrain and improving space utilization, while enabling prompt maintenance and management through advanced monitoring systems.

Implementation Method 1

solar power generation using solar light as an energy source

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectPhotovoltaic effect: Photovoltaic Effect

Data Source

PatentUS20220376512A1Photovoltaic generation site construction method

Publication Date: 2022.11.24 CLEAN ENERGY FACTORY CO LTD

AI summary

To provide a solar power generation site construction method enabling a great improvement in power generation efficiency through effectively utilizing a space of a power generation site with an irregular planar shape. A solar module 7 is configured by arranging a plurality of solar cell groups, each including a plurality of solar cells. A plurality of types of unit modules are prepared including a one-unit module 7-1 including one solar module, a reference unit module 7-s including a plurality (N) of solar modules serving as a construction standard, and n-unit modules 7-n including an arbitrary number (n), which falls between 2 and N−1, of solar modules. The solar modules 7 are densely laid in an area with a two-dimensional shape in top view of a field 35 of a power generation site, by combining the plurality of types of unit modules 7-1, 7-S, 7-n.