Solar Array Rack Alignment Tool for Rapid Pre-Installation Positioning
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Solution Overview
Problem
The alignment of solar panels on support racks during installation is often delayed until the racks are fixed to the ground, leading to mechanical stresses and reduced efficiency, necessitating a tool for precise and rapid alignment.
Innovation Solution
A solar panel alignment tool comprising an elongate vertical member, an elongate horizontal member, and diagonal braces, with optional alignment pins or laser indicators, to facilitate accurate and rapid alignment of solar panel racks, allowing for field adjustments and compatibility with various rack designs.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of manufacture
If solar panels are aligned after racks are fixed to the ground, then the installation process is simpler, but alignment precision deteriorates and mechanical stresses increase
Solution Approach 1:
The alignment tool is designed to be used before the racks are permanently fixed to the ground. The tool includes preliminary alignment features such as alignment pins that fit into pre-formed apertures in the racks, allowing installers to establish precise alignment while the racks are still adjustable. This preliminary action ensures accurate alignment is achieved before final installation, preventing mechanical stresses on the solar panels.
2Device complexity
If traditional alignment methods are used, then no additional equipment is needed, but alignment time increases significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The alignment tool serves as an intermediary device between the installer and the rack system. It includes a horizontal member that spans across the rack structure, with alignment pins or laser indicators that provide visual and physical guidance for proper positioning. This intermediary tool simplifies the alignment process by providing clear reference points, reducing the time required from 50-65 minutes to half that time while maintaining equipment simplicity.
3Adaptability or versatility
If racks are installed days or weeks before solar panels, then installation scheduling is more flexible, but alignment problems are discovered too late
Solution Approach 1:
The alignment tool enables preliminary alignment verification to be performed on racks during the installation process, even when racks are installed days or weeks before solar panels. The tool's alignment pins fit into pre-formed apertures in the racks, allowing installers to check and correct alignment issues before the panels are finally installed. This preliminary check ensures alignment reliability is maintained regardless of the time delay between rack installation and panel installation.
Data Source
AI summary
An alignment tool for use with a solar panel support rack, configured to allow for the easy and rapid positioning of the support rack into proper alignment to receive solar panels.