Adjustable Solar Module Mounting for Uneven Ground Alignment
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing solar panel mounting systems struggle to efficiently and effectively mount solar panels on uneven ground surfaces while ensuring optimal exposure to sunlight, as they often require complex adjustments and may not distribute load forces appropriately.
Innovation Solution
A system utilizing three foundational members in a triangular configuration, supported by a support strut assembly with adjustable strut members that experience only tension and compression forces, allowing for six degrees of freedom to secure solar panels at desired angles and orientations, and incorporating a hexapod for precise positioning.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If solar panels are mounted at an angle from the horizontal to maximize sunlight exposure, then energy generation efficiency is improved, but mounting system complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The mounting system incorporates adjustable struts with telescopic sections that allow dynamic adjustment of panel angle and position. This enables the system to adapt to different sunlight conditions while maintaining a relatively simple overall structure, resolving the contradiction between optimization capability and structural complexity
Solution Approach 2:
The system allows changing geometric parameters (angle, height, position) through adjustable struts and positioning mechanisms. This enables optimization of energy generation by adjusting panel orientation to match solar angles without requiring a completely complex mounting structure
2Adaptability or versatility
If mounting systems are designed to accommodate uneven ground surfaces, then adaptability is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The mounting system uses adjustable and telescopic struts that can dynamically adapt to uneven terrain by varying their length and angle. This provides terrain adaptability without requiring complex foundational structures, as the adjustment capability is built into the strut assembly itself
Solution Approach 2:
The mounting system is divided into modular components (foundational members, struts, cross-bracing, positioning mechanisms) that can be independently adjusted. This segmentation allows each component to handle specific terrain variations, providing adaptability while keeping individual component complexity low
3Measurement precision
If adjustment mechanisms are added to struts for precise positioning, then positioning precision is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
Telescopic sections with locking mechanisms provide adjustable length control, while pivot joints enable angular adjustment. These dynamic features allow precise positioning without requiring overly complex mechanisms, as the adjustment is achieved through straightforward mechanical means
Solution Approach 2:
The struts are designed with pre-configured adjustment capabilities (telescopic sections, pivot points) that are prepared in advance. This allows for precise positioning during installation without requiring complex real-time adjustment mechanisms, as the adjustment capability is built into the strut design itself
Data Source
AI summary
Embodiments of the present inventions are directed to systems, devices for use with systems, and method of mounting and retaining solar panels. In some embodiments, an apparatus for mounting one or more solar panel modules above a supporting surface is disclosed, the apparatus including: three foundational members embedded in the supporting surface; a support frame configured to receive the solar panel modules; a support strut assembly configured to attach the support frame to the three foundational members to support the solar panel modules; where the support strut assembly includes a plurality of strut members, and includes one or more adjustment mechanisms that may be used to adjust a length or a joining angle of at least one of the strut members.