Solar Module Table Gear Locking Against Wind-Induced Rocking
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Solution Overview
Problem
Prior solar systems with pivotable module tables experience uncontrollable rocking under wind loads, leading to dangerous galloping effects, and existing solutions with hydraulic dampers are complex and costly.
Innovation Solution
A solar system where the module table is coupled to a gear element that can be both driven and blocked by an actuating element integrated into the drive shaft, engaging in the teeth of the gear element to prevent pivoting under wind loads, using a simple and effective mechanism with actuating pins.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Stability of the object's composition
If hydraulic dampers or auxiliary structures are used to compensate for wind-induced vibrations, then the stability of the module table is improved, but the device complexity and installation cost increase significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts the essential locking function from complex hydraulic dampers and auxiliary structures, implementing it through a simple pin-and-hole mechanism integrated into the drive shaft. The actuating element with pins engages with corresponding holes in the module table to provide stability without requiring complex external stabilization systems.
Solution Approach 2:
The drive shaft system serves dual functions: it drives the module table for sun tracking and simultaneously provides locking capability through integrated actuating pins. This self-service approach eliminates the need for separate stabilization components, reducing complexity while maintaining stability.
2Reliability
If a specially shaped shut-off plate with gear transmission is used to block the gear element, then the module table can be locked, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts the locking function from complex gear transmissions and shut-off plates, implementing it through simple actuating pins that engage with holes in the module table. This minimalistic approach provides reliable locking without requiring sophisticated mechanical blocking mechanisms.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces complex mechanical blocking mechanisms (gear transmissions, shaped plates) with a simpler pin-based locking system. The actuating pins provide sufficient locking capability without engaging in complex gear interactions, thereby reducing mechanical complexity.
3Productivity
If the module table is designed to pivot for sun tracking, then solar radiation capture is optimized, but the module table becomes vulnerable to wind-induced rocking and galloping effects
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a dynamic locking system where the module table can pivot freely during normal operation to track the sun, but can be locked in place when wind conditions require stability. The actuating pins can be engaged or disengaged as needed, providing adaptive response to changing environmental conditions.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent applies preliminary anti-action by providing a pre-configured locking mechanism that can be activated before dangerous wind-induced rocking occurs. The actuating pins are positioned to engage with holes in the module table, ready to prevent galloping effects when wind loads increase.
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
Prevents module table rocking under wind loads by allowing the system to lock the gear element, enhancing stability and reducing assembly complexity and costs.
Implementation Method 1
the actuating element engages the teeth of the gear element to drive or block the gear element
Implementation Method 2
When the drive shaft rotates around its longitudinal axis, the gear element pivots (actuates)
Data Source
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AI summary
The invention relates to a solar installation (1), comprising at least one pivotable module table (2a, 2b, 2c), which supports at least one, preferably a plurality of photovoltaic solar modules (3) and which is coupled to least one gear element (4), which is pivotable about an axis (A), in such a way that pivoting of the gear element (4) causes pivoting of the module table (2a to 2c) in order for the solar modules (3) to track the course of the sun, wherein the gear element (4) is driven by an electrically driven drive shaft (5) and thereby pivoted, wherein at least one actuating element (8), by means of which the gear element (4) can be both driven and blocked, is integrated into the drive shaft (5), wherein the actuating element (8) engages into the toothing (11) of the gear element (4) in order to drive or block the gear element (4).