Solar Tracker Torque Tube Linkage for Uneven Terrain
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional solar power generation systems require extensive land area, complex power transmission structures, and separate space for actuators, leading to increased costs, power loss, and difficulties in installation on non-flat terrain with non-uniform soil conditions.
Innovation Solution
A solar power generation apparatus utilizing torque tubes with rotatable posts, lever arms, and a linkage system powered by a single actuator, where the actuator is supported on a bed frame between posts, allowing for efficient power transmission and minimizing the need for separate actuator space, and incorporating adjustable anchor systems to absorb soil tolerance.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If a large number of solar panels are installed on vast flat land, then power generation capacity is improved, but land area requirement increases and installation cost increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the actuator and mounting structure into an integrated assembly where the actuator is directly mounted on the mounting structure that supports the solar panel. This eliminates separate components and reduces the overall space requirement while maintaining power generation capacity.
Solution Approach 2:
The actuator is positioned within the spatial envelope of the mounting structure, effectively nesting components within each other's volume. This nested arrangement reduces the footprint required for each solar panel assembly, allowing higher density installation on limited land area.
2Reliability
If separate space for actuator is allocated for each solar panel, then actuator functionality is ensured, but space utilization decreases and installation cost increases
Solution Approach 1:
The actuator and mounting structure are merged into a single integrated assembly. The actuator is mounted directly on the mounting structure, eliminating the need for separate actuator housing or additional support structures. This ensures full actuator functionality while maximizing space utilization.
3Ease of manufacture
If torque tube extends in one direction for simple structure, then manufacturing is simplified, but deformation during installation and transportation occurs
Solution Approach 1:
The torque tube is segmented into multiple sections that can be connected together. This segmentation allows the structure to be more resistant to deformation during transportation and installation while maintaining manufacturing simplicity through modular construction. The segmented design provides flexibility to accommodate terrain variations.
Solution Approach 2:
The torque tube design incorporates dynamic characteristics that allow it to flex and adapt during installation and transportation without permanent deformation. The structure can dynamically respond to external forces while maintaining its functional integrity.
4Adaptability or versatility
If solar panels are installed on non-flat terrain with non-uniform soil, then installation flexibility is improved, but installation difficulty increases due to tolerance issues
Solution Approach 1:
The mounting structure incorporates dynamic adjustment capabilities that allow it to adapt to non-uniform terrain and soil conditions. The structure can be adjusted during installation to accommodate tolerance variations without requiring precise pre-drilling or complex alignment procedures.
Solution Approach 2:
The mounting structure allows for parameter changes in position and orientation to accommodate varying terrain conditions. This flexibility enables installation on non-flat terrain while maintaining installation simplicity through adjustable parameters rather than fixed rigid connections.
Data Source
AI summary
The present invention relates to a solar power generation apparatus, which comprises: torque tubes which are arranged to form a plurality of columns; a plurality of solar panels which are installed along each torque tube; posts which rotatably support each torque tube; lever arms which are coupled with each torque tube; a linkage which is disposed on the lower side of the torque tubes and is connected to each lever arm; an actuator which reciprocates the linkage in the longitudinal direction of the linkage, thereby rotating the torque tubes around an axis based on the longitudinal direction of the torque tubes; and a bed frame which is installed between some of the plurality of posts, wherein the actuator is supported thereon.