Solar Tracker Platform With Three Actuators for Full-Sky Sun Tracking
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current solar tracking devices are limited in their ability to continuously track the sun across all locations and varying external conditions, requiring complex systems, periodic repositioning, and reprogramming, and are often cumbersome and energy-intensive.
Innovation Solution
A solar tracker system with a single support column and universal joint allowing bi-axial rotation, combined with three linear actuators for orthogonal movement, enabling the carrier platform to face any direction from near the horizon to the Zenith and sweep 360 degrees, using a simple sensor array to maintain orientation towards the sun with minimal energy consumption.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If devices use sensors and sophisticated electronic control systems to track the light source, then tracking precision is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The tracking device uses passive solar energy to power its operation. The solar panel charges a battery during the day, which automatically powers the tracking system without external intervention. This self-sufficient design reduces complexity while maintaining tracking precision through automatic operation.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces complex electronic control systems with a simpler mechanical and thermal approach. Heated fluids drive rotational movement about an axis, and passive thermal tracking mechanisms are used alongside minimal electronic sensors, reducing overall system complexity while preserving tracking accuracy.
2Speed
If turret mechanisms with motors and gear mechanisms are used, then rotational movement capability is improved, but device complexity and weight increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent uses heated fluids to drive rotational movement about an axis. This hydraulic approach replaces traditional motors and gear mechanisms, reducing mechanical complexity while maintaining rotational capability. The fluid-driven system provides smooth motion with fewer moving parts.
3Adaptability or versatility
If periodic repositioning or reprogramming is required, then adaptability to changing conditions is improved, but loss of time increases
Solution Approach 1:
The tracking device operates continuously without periodic repositioning or reprogramming. The solar-powered system automatically tracks the light source throughout the day, and the battery ensures continuous operation during cloudy periods. This eliminates downtime associated with manual intervention while maintaining adaptability to changing environmental conditions.
4Strength
If complex frame and support structure with multitude of components are used, then structural strength is improved, but device complexity and ease of manufacture worsen
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple structural functions into integrated components. The frame and support structure are designed as unified elements rather than separate parts, reducing the number of components while maintaining structural strength. This simplification makes the device easier to manufacture without compromising load-bearing capacity.
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 system efficiently tracks the sun across a wide range of locations and conditions with reduced energy usage, minimal maintenance, and easy setup, ensuring maximum sunlight exposure throughout the day, suitable for various latitudes and weather conditions.
Implementation Method 1
The universal joint permits bi-axial rotation, and rotation about the third orthogonal axis that is collinear with the longitudinal axis of the column cannot occur.
Implementation Method 2
The orientation of said carrier platform is preferably maintained by three linear actuators
Implementation Method 3
each having one end (the upper end) mounted to the carrier platform by a spherical hinge
Implementation Method 4
the opposing or lower end mounted to a floating base received on the support column for free sliding motion along the support axis
Data Source
AI summary
A tracking device for automatically following a moving light source that is detectable in the presence of ambient light. A carrier platform including one or more radiant energy conversion devices and a sensor array is mounted to an upright support column with a universal joint. Three independently-operated, linear actuators are equally angularly spaced about the support column with an upper end connected to the carrier platform with a universal hinge and a lower end connected to a floating base with a spherical hinge. A sensor array carried by the carrier platform includes a primary sensor associated with each actuator. During operation, when a primary sensor is not receiving direct radiant energy, the actuator retracts, and when it is receiving radiant energy directly, the actuator extends. The result is that the platform will directly track the sun across the horizon.