Adjustable Solar Panel Rack for Latitude and Terrain Adaptation
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Current solar panel support structures are not universally adaptable to different latitudes or seasons, and are often cost-prohibitive for small businesses and residential use, lacking the ability to be interchangeably mounted to various structures and adjust angles effectively.
Innovation Solution
A solar panel support apparatus with a pivotally attached rack assembly and independently adjustable legs, featuring a locking mechanism that allows for adjustable positioning of solar panels relative to a base frame, enabling alignment with the sun's rays regardless of latitude or season, and adaptable to various terrains and structures.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If tracking mounting structures are used to align solar panels with the sun, then energy capture efficiency is improved, but device complexity and cost increase significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies dynamics by making the rack assembly movable relative to the base frame through a pivotal connection system. The rack can be rotated about a vertical axis and tilted relative to the base frame, allowing dynamic adjustment of panel orientation to track the sun's movement while maintaining a relatively simple mechanical structure without complex motors or control systems
Solution Approach 2:
The mounting structure is divided into distinct functional segments: a stationary base frame assembly, a movable rack assembly, and intermediate support elements. This segmentation allows independent adjustment of each component, enabling complex panel positioning through simple, modular mechanical elements rather than a single complex mechanism
2Device complexity
If fixed mounting structures are used to reduce complexity, then device complexity is reduced, but adaptability to different latitudes and seasons is lost
Solution Approach 1:
The rack assembly is designed with pivotal connections that enable it to be tilted at various angles relative to the base frame and rotated about a vertical axis. This dynamic positioning capability allows the same simple structure to be adapted to different latitudes by adjusting the tilt angle and to different seasons by changing the rotation position, all while maintaining low structural complexity
Solution Approach 2:
The base frame assembly with its adjustable leg mechanisms and the rack assembly with its multi-axis adjustment capabilities create a universal mounting structure that can be deployed at any latitude and configured for any season. The same basic structure serves multiple functions across different geographical and temporal conditions without requiring location-specific customization
3Ease of manufacture
If fixed angle mounting is used to simplify installation, then ease of installation is improved, but ability to optimize for different latitudes is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The rack assembly is pre-configured with pivotal connections and adjustment mechanisms during manufacturing, allowing it to be easily positioned at the correct angle after installation. The structure comes ready-to-adjust with all necessary mechanical components in place, simplifying the installation process while maintaining the capability for post-installation angle optimization for different latitudes
4Device complexity
If standard mounting structures are used to reduce cost, then cost is reduced, but adaptability to varying terrains is lost
Solution Approach 1:
The base frame assembly features independently adjustable legs that can be customized in length and positioning to match specific terrain conditions at each installation location. This local adjustability allows the same standard structure to adapt to varying terrains without requiring completely custom designs for each site
Solution Approach 2:
The adjustable leg mechanisms enable the base frame to be dynamically configured to accommodate uneven or varying terrain. The legs can be independently positioned to create a stable base on different ground conditions, allowing a simple standard structure to adapt to diverse terrains through mechanical adjustment rather than complex site-specific engineering
Data Source
AI summary
A method of using a solar panel support apparatus for selectively positioning a solar panel contained thereon comprises securing forward and rearward legs to the ground or an affixed structure. A solar panel is supported by a rack having an end pivotally attachable to the forward leg. First and second arms pivotally connected to one another pivotally attach to the forward leg and the rack permitting the rack to be positionable relative the forward leg. A locking mechanism locks the first arm and the second arm at a selected angle relative to one another, whereupon securing the rearward and the forward leg to the ground or an affixed structure the rack is pivotal to position the solar panel. Upon positioning the rack to place the solar panel at a selected position, the locking mechanism is engaged to retain the solar panel at the selected position.