Solar Tracker Slewing Unit for Low-Complexity Dual-Axis Tracking
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current solar tracking systems are either expensive, complex, or limited in their tracking range, and lack versatility to be used in various applications such as free-standing, roof-integrated, or building-integrated installations, with dual-axis systems being more costly and trouble-prone compared to single-axis systems.
Innovation Solution
A single-axis tracking device with a slewing unit that uses a worm drive and a self-locking mechanism, allowing for efficient adjustment of multiple solar collectors with minimal constructional expenditure, enabling use in all three application areas and maximizing energy yield while minimizing space usage.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If dual-axis tracking systems are used to maximize energy yield, then tracking precision is improved, but device complexity and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The tracking system is divided into two independent single-axis tracking devices, each responsible for one rotational axis. This segmentation allows each device to be simpler in structure while collectively achieving dual-axis tracking functionality, reducing individual device complexity and cost
Solution Approach 2:
Each single-axis tracking device is designed with universal functionality to track celestial bodies along its respective axis. The devices can be independently configured and adjusted, providing flexible multi-functional capability that replaces the need for a complex integrated dual-axis system
2Productivity
If dual-axis tracking systems are implemented to enhance tracking capability, then productivity is improved, but ease of manufacture deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The manufacturing process is segmented into two separate single-axis device productions rather than one complex dual-axis system. This allows for standardized, modular manufacturing of each unit, improving ease of manufacture while maintaining high energy yield through coordinated operation of both devices
Solution Approach 2:
The design favors simpler, more easily manufactured single-axis devices that can be produced at lower cost and potentially replaced more easily if needed, rather than investing in a complex, expensive dual-axis system that is harder to manufacture and maintain
3Device complexity
If single-axis tracking is used to reduce constructional expenditure, then device complexity is reduced, but tracking range is limited
Solution Approach 1:
Two single-axis tracking devices are merged to work together as a coordinated system. Each device handles one axis of motion, and their combined operation achieves the tracking range and versatility of a dual-axis system while keeping individual device complexity low and constructional expenditure reduced
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 solution provides a cost-effective, modular, and versatile solar tracking system that can be used in various applications, achieving high energy yield with reduced constructional expenditure and allowing for efficient use of space, including retrofit installations on existing structures.
Implementation Method 1
provided between the mutually concentric, annular connection elements of one slewing unit is at least one row of rolling elements that roll along raceways on the first and second connection elements
Implementation Method 2
A single-axis tracking device with a slewing unit that uses a worm drive and a self-locking mechanism
Data Source
AI summary
The invention relates to a tracking device comprising a receiving structure that can be adjusted about at least one axis, for mounting at least one element that is sensitive to electromagnetic waves and has a preferential radiation direction, and comprising at least one rotational drive per axis for the purpose of actively rotationally adjusting said receiving structure in order for the element(s) mounted thereupon to track a celestial body on one or multiple axes with the aid of a control system and according to a predetermined algorithm, (each of) the rotational drive(s) comprising two annular connection elements that are concentric with one another, are mounted one upon the other, and are or can be coupled to at least one motor for mutual relative adjustment, a first connection element comprising at least one planar connection surface for fixing in place to a foundation, base, column or a connection element of another pivoting unit, and a second connection element comprising at least one planar connection surface for the purpose of coupling to said receiving structure or to a connection element of another pivoting unit in a rotationally-fixed manner. In addition, at least one row of roller elements is provided between the concentric annular connection elements of a pivoting unit, said roller elements rolling along raceways on the first and second connection elements, a toothing being provided that extends at least partially around one connection element and is formed, together with the raceway(s) that are in place, by machining or shaping a shared annular main part, and bore holes distributed in a circle and passing through the planar contact surface being provided on the other connection element for the purpose of fixing to a contact part, and being formed together with the raceway(s) that are in place by machining or shaping a shared annular main part.