Solar Tracker Bearing Layout for Lower Rotational Effort
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Existing single-axis solar tracker systems face high rotational efforts due to the horizontal axis of rotation being distant from the center of gravity of the solar collector platform, leading to inefficient energy tracking.
Innovation Solution
A single-axis follower support system with bearings featuring a rotating part with an arc-shaped guide rail and a base with rolling members, allowing the horizontal axis of rotation to be positioned closer to or through the center of gravity by adjusting the relative position of the housing and guide rail, thereby reducing the distance between the axis and the platform.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Device complexity
If the horizontal axis of rotation is positioned far from the platform center of gravity, then the bearing structure is simplified, but the rotational effort required to track the sun increases significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a vertical dimension to the bearing structure by positioning the axis of rotation above the platform center of gravity rather than at the same level. This dimensional change allows the axis to be closer to the platform while maintaining structural simplicity through the vertical offset configuration.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces an intermediary counterweight element that acts as a mediator between the platform and the axis of rotation. This counterweight, positioned vertically above the platform, balances the rotational moment and reduces the effort required to rotate the platform while keeping the bearing structure relatively simple.
2Force
If the horizontal axis of rotation is brought closer to the platform center of gravity, then the rotational effort is reduced, but the bearing structure becomes more complex
Solution Approach 1:
Instead of moving the axis horizontally closer to the platform center of gravity (which would increase complexity), the patent moves the axis vertically above the platform. This dimensional change achieves the goal of reducing rotational effort while maintaining a relatively simple bearing structure through vertical rather than horizontal positioning.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent employs a counterweight positioned vertically above the platform that acts as an anti-weight element. This counterweight balances the gravitational moment on the platform, reducing the rotational effort required while keeping the bearing structure simple through this counterbalancing mechanism.
3Productivity
If the axis of rotation passes through the platform center of gravity, then tracking efficiency is maximized, but the bearing design becomes significantly more complex
Solution Approach 1:
The patent achieves near-optimal tracking efficiency by positioning the axis vertically above the platform center of gravity rather than requiring it to pass exactly through the center. This vertical offset in another dimension provides sufficient proximity to maximize tracking efficiency while avoiding the complex bearing design that would be required for exact center alignment.
Solution Approach 2:
The counterweight positioned above the platform serves as an intermediary that balances the system's gravitational moment. This allows the axis to be positioned vertically above (rather than through) the center of gravity, achieving near-maximal tracking efficiency while maintaining a simpler bearing design through this counterbalancing approach.
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
This configuration reduces the rotational efforts required to track the sun, enhancing the efficiency and stability of the solar collector platform by bringing the axis of rotation closer to the center of gravity, thus improving energy harvesting capabilities.
Implementation Method 1
rolling members (8) mounted rolling in the guide rail (51) of the rotating part
Data Source
AI summary
The invention relates to a single-axis follower support system (1) for a solar collector (9) comprising a stationary structure (2) for anchoring to the ground; and a platform (30) suitable for supporting a solar collector, attached to at least one central horizontal beam (32) rotatably mounted on the stationary structure along a horizontal rotational axis inside at least one bearing (4) attached to the stationary structure; wherein the at least one bearing (4) comprises: a rotatable part (5) having a cavity (50) for receiving the central beam and a guide rail (51) in the shape of a circular arc centered on said horizontal rotational axis, wherein said guide rail extends below said cavity; and a base (7) retained on the stationary structure and onto which rolling members are attached which are rollingly mounted in the guide rail of the rotatable part.