Solar Tracker Clamp Assembly for Dynamic Panel Positioning
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional solar tracking systems are inadequate in optimizing energy conversion from solar panels due to suboptimal sun angles, leading to inefficient energy capture.
Innovation Solution
A clamp assembly for solar modules configured on a solar tracker system, featuring a planar surface region and a saddle region with a circular arc surface, securely attached to a cylindrical torque tube using a key structure and U-bolts, allowing for adjustable and stable positioning of solar modules.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If conventional solar tracking mechanisms are used, then solar panels can be positioned to follow the sun, but the positioning is inadequate and fails to optimize energy conversion due to suboptimal sun angles
Solution Approach 1:
The clamp assembly enables dynamic adjustment of solar panel positions through its adjustable clamping mechanism. The clamp can be positioned at multiple locations along the torque tube and secured at different angular positions, allowing the solar panels to be dynamically repositioned to optimize their orientation relative to the sun's movement throughout the day and across different seasons.
Solution Approach 2:
The system allows for parameter changes in the positioning of solar panels by adjusting the clamp's location and orientation on the torque tube. The adjustable nature of the clamp enables modification of panel tilt angles and azimuth positions, facilitating optimization of energy conversion efficiency by adapting to varying sun angles at different times and locations.
2Productivity
If solar panels are fixed in position, then the structure is simple and stable, but energy capture is inefficient due to inability to track optimal sun angles
Solution Approach 1:
The positioning system is segmented into modular components: the torque tube providing rotational support, the adjustable clamp for securing panels at different positions, and the solar panel arrays. This segmentation allows for independent adjustment of each component, enabling efficient sun tracking without requiring a completely complex integrated mechanism. The clamp can be moved to different locations on the torque tube and adjusted to different angles independently.
Solution Approach 2:
The system transitions from a fixed rigid structure to a dynamic adjustable structure. The clamp assembly provides dynamic positioning capability, allowing the solar panels to be repositioned to track the sun's movement. This dynamic adjustment capability significantly improves energy capture efficiency while adding only moderate complexity through the use of adjustable clamps rather than complex motorized tracking systems.
3Adaptability or versatility
If the clamp assembly uses a rigid fixed structure, then manufacturing is simple, but the system lacks adaptability for adjusting solar module positions
Solution Approach 1:
The clamp assembly is designed as a segmented structure with distinct functional portions that can be manufactured separately and then assembled. The clamp includes a body portion, adjustable clamping elements, and mounting features that can be produced using standard manufacturing processes. This segmentation allows for easier manufacturing of individual components while providing the overall adaptability needed for position adjustment.
Solution Approach 2:
The clamp assembly is designed as a universal component that can be used in multiple positions and configurations along the torque tube. The same clamp design can secure solar panels at different angular positions and locations, eliminating the need for multiple specialized clamp types. This multi-functionality simplifies manufacturing by standardizing the clamp design while maintaining high adaptability for various positioning requirements.
Data Source
AI summary
In an example, the solar tracker has a clamp assembly configured to pivot a torque tube. In an example, the assembly has a support structure configured as a frame having configured by a first and second anchoring region. In an example, the support structure is configured from a thickness of metal material. In an example, the support structure is configured in an upright manner, and has a major plane region. In an example, the assembly has a pivot device configured on the support structure, a torque tube suspending on the pivot device and aligned within an opening of the support, and configured to be normal to the plane region. In an example, the torque tube is configured on the pivot device to move about an arc in a first direction or in a second direction such that the first direction is in a direction opposite to the second direction.