Solar Panel Pivot Mount for Compact Storage and Angle Adjustment
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing solar panel mounting systems are either permanently attached, bulky, and non-adjustable, making them inconvenient for storage, transportation, and optimal sun angle adjustments based on latitude and time of year.
Innovation Solution
A self-storing, adjustable angle mount system for solar panels using pivot point hinges, flexible straps with adjustable ladder locks, and tie-down loops that allows for easy storage, transportation, and angle adjustments to maximize solar power production.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Stability of the object's composition
If existing mounting systems are permanently attached to structure, then structural stability is improved, but storage and transportation convenience deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The mounting system is divided into separate components: a base plate that attaches to the structure, a support arm that pivots, and the solar panel attachment point. This segmentation allows the panel and support arm to be detached and stored separately from the permanently installed base plate, resolving the contradiction between permanent attachment and storage convenience.
Solution Approach 2:
The support arm incorporates a pivot joint with a locking mechanism that allows it to be dynamically adjusted between different positions - locked in place during operation for stability, and unlocked for easy detachment and storage. This dynamic capability resolves the contradiction between permanent attachment and storage convenience.
2Strength
If existing mounting systems are bulky, then structural support capability is improved, but storage efficiency deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The support arm is designed to nest within or alongside the solar panel frame when not in use, significantly reducing the volume required for storage and transportation while maintaining full structural support capability when deployed.
3Device complexity
If existing mounting systems are not adjustable, then device complexity is reduced, but adaptability to different sun angles deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The mounting system incorporates a pivot joint that enables the support arm to be adjusted to different angles. A simple locking mechanism allows users to easily set and secure the panel at optimal angles for different seasons and latitudes, providing adaptability without excessive complexity.
4Volume of moving object
If existing mounting systems require disassembly for storage, then storage efficiency is improved, but installation time increases
Solution Approach 1:
The base plate is pre-installed on the structure during initial installation. This preliminary action eliminates the need to attach the base plate during each storage cycle, reducing the time required for disassembly and reassembly while maintaining storage efficiency.
Data Source
AI summary
This invention provides solar applications with a strong, light, universal solar panel mount that pivots inside the solar panel frame for compact storage or transport with no disassembly. It also pivots out at adjustable angles to work with any latitude or season without assembly. The mount is adjustable to a wide range of solar panel angles to allow the solar panel to best match the sun angle for multiple latitudes and seasons of the year. It can be temporarily free standing or permanently placed via the use of the attachment points.