Solar Tracker Dual-Axis Rotation Using Two Linear Actuators
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current solar tracker mechanisms require multiple linear actuators for azimuthal and elevation movements, leading to increased complexity, higher costs, and maintenance needs due to over-actuation and the need for precise coordination of actuators.
Innovation Solution
A solar tracker mechanism utilizing a single azimuthal linear actuator for 180° rotation and a single elevation linear actuator for greater than 90° tilt, allowing forward and backward tilting of solar panels, thereby reducing the number of actuators required and simplifying control and assembly.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If multiple linear actuators are used for azimuthal and elevation movements, then the solar tracker can achieve complete solar tracking coverage, but the mechanism complexity and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies dynamics by making the elevation shaft movable rather than fixed, allowing it to move with the azimuthal rotation. This dynamic configuration enables a single azimuthal actuator to control both azimuthal rotation and elevation positioning through the changing geometry of the linkage, reducing the total number of actuators from three to two while maintaining complete solar tracking coverage
Solution Approach 2:
The single azimuthal linear actuator serves multiple functions: it controls the azimuthal rotation of the supporting structure and simultaneously influences the elevation position through its connection to the movable elevation shaft. This multi-functionality allows one actuator to replace what would traditionally require separate actuators for each degree of freedom
2Adaptability or versatility
If multiple linear actuators are used for azimuthal and elevation movements, then the solar tracker can achieve complete solar tracking coverage, but the control complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The dynamic linkage between the azimuthal actuator and the movable elevation shaft creates a geometric relationship where the elevation position is automatically determined by the azimuthal position. This eliminates the need for complex coordinated control of multiple actuators, as the single azimuthal actuator's movement automatically positions both degrees of freedom through the linkage geometry
3Adaptability or versatility
If multiple linear actuators are used for azimuthal and elevation movements, then the solar tracker can achieve complete solar tracking coverage, but the manufacturing and assembly costs increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts and eliminates redundant actuators from the system. By recognizing that a single azimuthal actuator with a movable elevation shaft can achieve the same functional coverage as three actuators, the design removes two actuators, reducing manufacturing costs, assembly complexity, and maintenance requirements while preserving complete solar tracking capability
Data Source
AI summary
Azimuthal and elevation rotation mechanism for solar trackers, which provides an azimuthal rotation around a vertical pedestal to an azimuthal rotating support on which a support structure of solar panels is in turn mounted with elevation rotation capacity around a horizontal shaft linked to the azimuthal rotating support. The azimuthal rotation is obtained by means of a single azimuthal linear actuator and the elevation rotation is obtained by means of a single elevation linear actuator, such that only two linear actuators are needed to obtain all the positions of the solar panels required for a complete solar tracking.