Solar Panel Installation System for Satellite Dish Power Supply
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current satellite dishes face challenges in powering low-noise block down converter feedhorns, as traditional power delivery methods are cumbersome and costly, requiring a reliable and low-maintenance power source.
Innovation Solution
A solar panel installation system that includes a frame, an azimuth/elevation adjusting device, a mast, and a mounting connector, coupled with a power control system that selects between solar panel and satellite receiver power sources to ensure continuous operation of the satellite dish components.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If traditional power delivery methods are used to power low-noise block down converter feedhorns, then the components can operate, but the system becomes cumbersome and costly
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts the power delivery system from the satellite dish structure by mounting solar panels separately on a roof or ground location, eliminating the need for complex integrated power delivery mechanisms within the dish assembly. The solar panels are positioned independently to capture sunlight and generate power without being structurally coupled to the dish.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces an intermediary power transmission medium (such as a waveguide or coaxial cable) that carries both microwave signals and electrical power between the separately located solar panel and the low-noise block down converter feedhorn. This intermediary component enables power delivery without requiring direct structural integration between the solar panel and dish components.
2Use of energy by moving object
If solar panels are integrated directly with the satellite dish, then power can be delivered to components, but installation and positioning become more complex
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the satellite communication system into functionally independent components: the solar panel assembly for power generation is separated from the satellite dish assembly for signal reception. This segmentation allows each component to be manufactured, installed, and positioned independently, simplifying the overall installation process while maintaining both power generation and signal reception functions.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent creates a universal mounting system that can accommodate solar panels of various sizes and configurations on different surfaces (roofs, ground mounts, walls). The mounting structure provides universal adaptability through adjustable arms, flexible positioning mechanisms, and multiple attachment options, making installation easier across different installation scenarios.
3Ease of manufacture
If solar panels are positioned at fixed locations, then installation is simpler, but optimal sun tracking and power generation are reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The patent incorporates dynamic positioning capabilities into the solar panel mounting system, allowing the panels to be adjusted and repositioned to track the sun's movement across the sky. The mounting structure includes adjustable arms, rotation mechanisms, and elevation controls that enable the solar panels to maintain optimal angular orientation relative to the sun throughout the day, maximizing power generation efficiency.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent enables periodic adjustment of the solar panel position to follow the sun's daily and seasonal trajectory. The mounting system allows for regular repositioning at scheduled intervals (daily adjustments for optimal angle, seasonal adjustments for latitude/longitude compensation) to maintain peak power generation performance without requiring complex automated tracking systems.
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 solar panel installation system provides a low-cost, low-maintenance power solution for satellite dish components, ensuring reliable operation by seamlessly switching between solar panel and satellite receiver power sources, reducing installation and maintenance costs.
Implementation Method 1
A solar powered satellite system includes a solar powered installation system and a power control system for providing a low cost, low maintenance power source for power consumers of a satellite dish
Data Source
AI summary
A solar powered satellite system is provided. A power control system, for example, of the solar powered satellite system may include, but is not limited to, a first interface configured to receive a power signal from the satellite receiver, a voltage converter electrically coupled to the first interface, the voltage converter configured to reduce a voltage of the power signal received from the satellite receiver to a predetermined voltage, a second interface configured to receive a power signal from the solar panel assembly, a third interface configured to be coupled to at least one power consumer of a satellite dish, and a source selection circuit electrically coupled to the voltage converter, the solar panel assembly and the third interface, the source selection circuit configured to output a selected power signal based upon a comparison between the predetermined voltage and a voltage of the power signal from the solar panel assembly.