Control of solar tracker device
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional central safety systems for solar tracker devices rely on complex and error-prone line routing for controlling tracker devices to move into a safety position during dangerous conditions, which can lead to reduced reliability and increased costs, and may fail if communication lines break.
Innovation Solution
A method where a central safety system detects hazardous events, interrupts and resumes power supply to the tracker device's control unit for a predetermined time, causing the actuator to move the solar module into a safety position, eliminating the need for separate communication lines and ensuring reliable operation without line breakage risks.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If separate communication lines are used to control tracker devices to move into safety position, then the control signal can be transmitted reliably, but the system complexity and cost increase due to extensive line routing
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the communication function and power supply function into a single power supply line. The interruption and resumption of power supply serve dual purposes: providing electrical power to the tracker control unit and simultaneously transmitting the emergency control signal. This eliminates the need for separate communication lines while maintaining reliable signal transmission.
Solution Approach 2:
The power supply line is given multiple functions: it serves as both the electrical power source for the tracker control unit and as the communication channel for transmitting emergency signals. This multi-functional use of the power supply line resolves the contradiction by eliminating redundant infrastructure while preserving reliable control.
2Ease of operation
If communication lines are used for tracker control, then control signals can be transmitted, but line breakage may occur leading to system failure
Solution Approach 1:
By merging the communication function into the power supply line, the patent eliminates separate communication lines that are susceptible to breakage. The power supply line, being a robust electrical connection, serves as the communication medium, thereby improving connection stability while maintaining ease of operation.
3Productivity
If tracker devices are kept in operational position during dangerous conditions, then power production is maintained, but damage may occur to equipment
Solution Approach 1:
The system takes preliminary protective action by detecting dangerous conditions (such as high wind speeds) and automatically triggering a safety response. The interruption of power supply serves as a preliminary measure to move trackers to a safe horizontal position before environmental damage can occur, prioritizing equipment protection over temporary power production loss.
4Productivity
If power supply is continuously provided to tracker control units, then the devices remain operational, but emergency response capability is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The power supply to tracker control units is made periodic rather than continuous. During normal operation, power is supplied continuously for productivity. During emergency conditions, the power supply is interrupted for a predetermined time period to convey the emergency signal and trigger the safety response. This periodic interruption resolves the contradiction by enabling reliable emergency response while maintaining operational productivity during normal conditions.
Data Source
AI summary
The present invention relates to a method for controlling a tracker control unit and therefore the tracker device of a solar module of a solar power plant, wherein the tracker device comprises a control unit, an actuator element and a support means for supporting the solar module, comprising the steps of detecting a particular event, interrupting for a predetermined time period power supply to the control unit of the tracker device in reaction to the detection of the particular event, resuming power supply after the predetermined time period and in reaction to the resumed power supply actuating the support means by the actuator element to move the support means into a predetermined position.