Solar tracking system
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing solar tracking systems are complex and limited to daily sun movement, failing to account for seasonal shifts, and struggle to efficiently transmit linear motion over large distances, leading to reduced power output and increased operational costs.
Innovation Solution
A two-axis solar tracker system utilizing a frame with a four-bar linkage mechanism, including an upper beam actuator and a lower beam actuator, allows for both east-west and north-south rotation of PV modules, enabling efficient tracking of seasonal and daily sun movement with a simpler design that reduces assembly, maintenance, and operational costs.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If dual-axis tracking is implemented using conventional mechanisms, then seasonal and daily sun tracking capability is improved, but device complexity increases due to multiple actuators and complex mechanical linkages
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines both seasonal (north-south) and daily (east-west) tracking functions into a single integrated mechanical linkage system. The four-bar linkage mechanism with one actuator simultaneously achieves both axes of movement, merging what would traditionally require separate actuators and independent mechanical systems into a unified structure that reduces overall device complexity while maintaining full dual-axis functionality
Solution Approach 2:
The single actuator in the patent performs multiple functions by controlling the four-bar linkage mechanism to achieve both seasonal tracking (north-south movement) and daily tracking (east-west movement). This multi-functional design eliminates the need for separate actuators for each tracking axis, reducing device complexity while maintaining comprehensive sun tracking capability
2Reliability
If conventional solar tracking systems are used, then sun tracking is achieved, but ease of manufacture deteriorates due to complex assembly requirements
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the tracking system into modular components including the four-bar linkage mechanism, support structure, and actuator system that can be manufactured separately and assembled together. This segmentation allows each component to be optimized and manufactured independently using standard fabrication processes, improving ease of manufacture while maintaining reliable sun tracking functionality through precise modular assembly
3Length of moving object
If linear motion is transmitted over large distances in conventional systems, then actuation range is improved, but device complexity increases due to motion transmission mechanisms
Solution Approach 1:
The four-bar linkage mechanism acts as an intermediary that converts the linear motion of the actuator into the required rotational movements for both seasonal and daily tracking. This intermediary mechanism efficiently transmits motion over the necessary ranges without requiring complex multi-stage transmission systems, maintaining actuation range while reducing device complexity through direct mechanical coupling
Data Source
AI summary
The present invention relates to a two axis tracking system (100). The present invention includes a frame (102), a solar panel PV module (112), an upper beam (114), a selectively flexible bracket (116), a first supporting pillar (118), a second supporting pillar (140), a lower beam (120), first strut (126), a second strut (146). The first supporting pillar (118) and the second supporting pillar (140) together act as the fixed link. The frame (102) acts as the rotating link and the lower beam (120) acts as the translating link. The first strut (126) and the second strut (146) together act as the fourth link connecting the frame (102) and the lower beam (120). The translation of the lower beam (120) causes rotation of the frame (102) in north-south direction. The PV module (112) is mounted on the frame (102) are rotated in east-west direction by translation motion of the upper beam (114).