Solar Tracker Oscillation Brake Using Torque Tube Locking Mechanism
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Solution Overview
Problem
Solar-tracking photovoltaic modules are vulnerable to wind damage due to their geometry, which causes oscillatory motion and potential failure under strong wind conditions, as the torque tube supporting the modules is susceptible to torsion and twisting.
Innovation Solution
A solar-tracking photovoltaic array with a locking mechanism at one end of the torque tube, coupled with an orientation motor, that secures the torque tube in place during non-rotation periods, using movable pins or solenoids to prevent unwanted rotation and applying a preload to reduce oscillations, along with support columns and bearings to stabilize the structure.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If the torque tube is made movable to enable solar tracking, then the photovoltaic modules can be oriented towards the sun, but the structure becomes vulnerable to wind-induced oscillations and torsion
Solution Approach 1:
The system dynamically transitions between two states: a locked state where the torque tube is fixed to resist wind loads, and an unlocked state where the torque tube can rotate to track the sun. The locking mechanism enables this dynamic behavior, allowing the structure to adapt its degrees of freedom based on operational requirements versus safety requirements.
Solution Approach 2:
The locking mechanism applies a preliminary constraining force to prevent wind-induced oscillations and torsion before damage can occur. By proactively locking the torque tube in high-wind conditions, the system counteracts the harmful effects of wind loading before they can cause structural failure.
2Reliability
If the locking mechanism is engaged to prevent wind damage, then structural stability is improved, but the solar tracking function is compromised
Solution Approach 1:
The locking mechanism operates periodically, engaging during high-wind conditions and disengaging during normal operating conditions. This periodic action allows the system to alternate between prioritizing structural stability and prioritizing solar tracking functionality, optimizing overall system performance across varying environmental conditions.
3Object-affected harmful factors
If the torque tube is constrained to reduce oscillations, then wind damage is prevented, but the ability to rotate for sun tracking is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The locking mechanism extracts or removes the rotational degree of freedom from the torque tube when wind loads are high. By selectively taking out this degree of freedom only when necessary, the system prevents wind-induced oscillations while preserving rotation capability during normal conditions, thus minimizing the impact on operational ease.
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
The locking mechanism effectively reduces oscillatory motion and enhances the structural integrity of the support structure, preventing damage from wind-induced forces and ensuring the photovoltaic modules remain oriented towards the sun efficiently.
Implementation Method 1
the locking mechanism also includes one or more solenoids configured to generate a magnetic field to interact with a magnet disposed within a corresponding movable pin
Implementation Method 2
the braking mechanism being configured to compress a brake pad against the disc to oppose rotation of the first end of the torque tube
Data Source
AI summary
A solar-tracking photovoltaic array is described. The photovoltaic array includes mounting hardware configured to rotate photovoltaic modules associated with the photovoltaic array about one or more axes. In some embodiments, the photovoltaic modules can be coupled to a torque tube oriented in a substantially North-South direction. An orientation motor can then rotate one end of the torque tube in a manner that causes the photovoltaic modules to track the sun. The photovoltaic array can also include a locking mechanism that secures another end of the torque tube during times in which the orientation motor is not rotating the torque tube.