Moveable Single-Axis Solar Tracker Supports for Wind and Shade Control
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing PV panel support systems are expensive, difficult to install in remote locations, require significant manpower and equipment, occupy large spaces, and cannot adapt to changing sunlight conditions or adjust sunlight for underlying vegetation, making them economically unviable and prone to damage from wind and snow.
Innovation Solution
A solar panel support system incorporating single axis trackers that can be selectively positioned to optimize sunlight capture and shade for vegetation, with pods that can be manually or automatically displaced horizontally, using cables, columns, and anchors, and truss supports to enhance stability and adjustability.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If heavy metallic frame structures with substantial support posts and anchors are used, then PV panels can withstand wind and snow loading, but installation and maintenance costs increase significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs dynamic support structures including moveable single axis trackers and adjustable mounting systems that can adapt their position and configuration. These dynamic elements reduce the need for excessive static reinforcement while maintaining structural integrity under varying environmental loads through controlled movement and load distribution.
Solution Approach 2:
The support system utilizes adjustable parameters such as mounting angles, heights, and configurations that can be optimized for different wind and snow load conditions. By changing these parameters rather than uniformly increasing structure mass, the system achieves required reliability with reduced material usage and lower installation costs.
2Device complexity
If static, immovable support structures are used, then device complexity is reduced, but adaptability to changing sunlight conditions and vegetation needs is lost
Solution Approach 1:
The patent integrates moveable single axis trackers into the support system that enable solar panels to rotate and adjust their orientation throughout the day and across seasons. This dynamic capability allows the system to track sunlight movement while maintaining relatively simple support infrastructure, achieving adaptability without proportionally increasing complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The support structures are designed to serve multiple functions: providing structural support, enabling solar tracking movement, and allowing adjustment of panel orientation for different vegetation shading requirements. This multi-functionality reduces the need for separate specialized components, maintaining device complexity at acceptable levels while achieving versatility.
3Productivity
If large amounts of open space are required for PV panel installation, then solar capture efficiency is improved, but land-use availability is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs vertical dimension utilization through elevated mounting structures and adjustable height configurations. By raising PV panels above the ground plane and enabling vertical adjustment, the system captures sunlight effectively while minimizing ground footprint, allowing installation on previously unusable or limited land areas.
Solution Approach 2:
The support system allows for localized optimization of panel positioning, orientation, and spacing based on specific site conditions. This enables efficient solar capture in concentrated areas while leaving surrounding land available for other uses, achieving high productivity without requiring extensive uniform land occupation.
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 reduces installation and maintenance costs, allows for flexible panel positioning to maximize energy capture, and protects panels from wind and snow, enhancing economic viability and adaptability to environmental conditions.
Implementation Method 1
optimze the solar capture by rotating the solar panels to optimize the angular incidence of sunlight striking the PV panels
Data Source
AI summary
The invention comprises embodiments of structural supports for solar panels installed within solar arrays. Some of the embodiments include a combination of cable and truss supports, and others include truss supports rigidly mounted to columns. Other embodiments include single axis tracker devices for mounting solar panels within a solar array of an installation. The devices can be roller mounted for selective horizontal displacement of the mounted solar panels at any desired location within the installation. The density or number of devices can also be adjusted within the installation to provide precise control of sunlight or shade for underlying vegetation.