Solar Tracker Torque Limiter to Reduce Wind-Induced Torsion Forces
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Solution Overview
Problem
Solar tracking systems face challenges in resisting high hinge moment forces induced by wind, which can lead to torsional divergence and increased structural loading, requiring strong and costly torsional members to minimize flexibility and dynamic forces.
Innovation Solution
Incorporating a torsion limiter, such as a torque limiting clutch, at the output of a primary gearbox before the engagement of a secondary gear rack in each tracker row, allowing the system to resist torsion forces at multiple points and reducing peak torsion forces, thereby minimizing structural requirements and costs.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Strength
If strong torsional members are used to resist high hinge moment forces at a single point, then the structural strength is improved, but the device complexity and material cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the single-point torsion resistance into multiple resistance points along the tracker structure. By segmenting the force resistance locations, the hinge moment forces are distributed across multiple support points rather than concentrated at one location, reducing the torsional load on individual structural members and allowing for simpler, lighter construction.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces intermediate support points along the tracker structure that act as mediators to resist hinge moment forces. These intermediate points serve as additional reaction points between the wind load and the primary support structure, reducing the torsional moment that must be resisted by the main structural members.
2Strength
If strong torsional members are used to minimize flexibility, then the structural strength is improved, but the weight of the structure increases
Solution Approach 1:
By segmenting the force resistance into multiple points along the tracker, the patent reduces the torsional moment that each structural member must resist. This allows for the use of lighter, less robust materials while maintaining overall structural strength, directly reducing the weight of the moving tracker components.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the structural parameter from single-point to multi-point force resistance. This parameter change in the force distribution system allows for reduction in member size and weight while maintaining the same level of structural strength through improved load distribution.
3Weight of stationary object
If the tracker structure is made flexible to reduce material weight, then the material cost is reduced, but torsional divergence and dynamic forces increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the torsion resistance into multiple discrete support points along the tracker structure. This segmentation provides distributed stabilization that prevents torsional divergence even when using flexible, lightweight materials. Each support point acts as an independent stabilization node, collectively preventing dynamic oscillations.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent incorporates intermediate support points that act as preemptive cushioning elements against torsional forces. These support points are positioned beforehand along the structure to provide continuous stabilization, cushioning the flexible structure against wind-induced torsional divergence before it can develop into harmful dynamic forces.
4Strength
If multiple support points are used to resist hinge moment forces, then the structural requirements are reduced, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements segmentation of the support system into multiple discrete points along the tracker structure. Each support point is a simple structural element, but their collective arrangement provides enhanced torsion resistance, allowing for reduced member sizing while maintaining overall system simplicity through modular, repeatable support locations.
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 torsion limiter effectively reduces wind-induced torsion forces, eliminates dynamic forces, and allows the system to move to positions where torsion forces are minimized, resulting in lighter structural components and reduced material costs.
Implementation Method 1
When a level of torque on the gear assembly exceeds a preset level the clutch slips. The clutch may be located at two taper sections 26 of the worm wheel gear 22.
Data Source
AI summary
A solar tracker assembly comprises a support column, a torsion beam connected to the support column, a mounting mechanism attached to the torsion beam, a drive system connected to the torsion beam, and a torsion limiter connected to an output of the drive system. When an external force causes a level of torsion on the drive system to exceed a pre-set limit the torsion limiter facilitates rotational movement of the solar tracker assembly in the direction of the torsion, thereby allowing the external force to rotate about a pivot axis extending through the torsion beam. Exemplary embodiments also include methods of aligning a plurality of rows of solar trackers.