Solar Trough Rolling Rib Frame to Reduce Deflection
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current solar trough systems face challenges in minimizing deflections and loads on pivot points and frame members, which affect the efficiency of sunlight conversion into energy due to large wind and weight loads, leading to increased material costs and potential structural failures.
Innovation Solution
The implementation of a 'Rolling Rib' support system that attaches to the frame and moves along rollers, distributing loads more evenly by breaking the span into smaller sections and providing additional structural support, combined with a mirror cleaning system that collects and reclaims water for reuse.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Strength
If traditional elevated pivot point supports are used, then the frame can support the weight and wind loads, but the pivot points experience high loads and increased deflections
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the span into smaller sections by introducing intermediate support points along the rib, breaking the continuous span into discrete segments. This segmentation reduces the load on each individual pivot point and minimizes deflections between support points, directly resolving the contradiction between load bearing capacity and deflection control.
2Strength
If larger and stiffer frame members are used, then structural strength increases, but material costs and weight increase
Solution Approach 1:
By segmenting the span into smaller sections with intermediate supports, the patent allows the use of lighter frame members while maintaining structural strength. The reduced span length between supports decreases the bending moments and shear forces, enabling the use of smaller, lighter members that still meet strength requirements.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces a new dimensional element - the rib structure with intermediate support points - that provides additional structural support without increasing the cross-sectional dimensions of the main frame members. This adds support in the vertical dimension while keeping the horizontal frame members lighter.
3Reliability
If more frequent intermediate support points are added, then deflections are reduced, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The rib structure serves multiple functions simultaneously: it provides intermediate support to reduce deflections, acts as a mounting structure for cleaning apparatus, and distributes loads along the span. This multi-functionality reduces device complexity by combining several functions into a single integrated structure rather than requiring separate components for each function.
Data Source
AI summary
A support system for holding solar mirrors of a solar trough system includes a frame for supporting the mirrors. The system includes a rib attached to the frame. The system includes at least a first roller engaged with the rib along which the rib moves as the frame moves. A method for moving a frame supporting solar mirrors of a solar trough system includes the steps of moving the frame on a roller guided by a rib engaged with the roller and attached to the frame bottom to a first position. There is the step of moving the frame on the roller guided by the rib engaged with the roller and attached to the frame bottom to a second position. A roller for engaging with a rib attached to a frame that holds mirrors of a solar trough system. An apparatus for cleaning solar mirrors on a frame of a solar trough system. A method for cleaning mirrors on a framework of a solar trough system. A rib for a frame that holds solar mirrors of a solar trough system which engages with a roller. A support system for mirrors of a solar trough system.