Tensioned Sheet-Metal Solar Panels for Twisted Support Frames
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing solar panel structures are often rigid and require costly custom installations to accommodate varying terrain or irregular layouts, and they do not efficiently maximize solar radiation exposure, especially in areas with wind and snow loads.
Innovation Solution
Tensioned sheet-metal based solar panels that can be warped or twisted, supported by a flexible frame system with a hyperbolic parabolic configuration, allowing for increased wind resistance and optimized solar radiation exposure while being aesthetically appealing.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Strength
If rigid solar panel structures are used, then structural strength is improved, but adaptability to varying terrain and irregular layouts deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies flexible thin-film photovoltaic modules that can be tensioned and conform to various surface geometries. These flexible panels are mounted on tensioned cable networks and flexible support structures, enabling adaptation to irregular terrain and curved surfaces while maintaining structural integrity through the tensioned configuration rather than rigid framing.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent employs dynamic, adjustable support structures including telescopic posts and adjustable cable tensioning mechanisms. These elements allow the solar panel system to be configured for different terrain conditions and surface geometries, providing adaptability without requiring custom-built rigid structures for each installation site.
2Adaptability or versatility
If custom structures are built to accommodate varying terrain, then adaptability is improved, but manufacturing cost and complexity increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs universal, modular components including standardized flexible photovoltaic modules, adjustable support posts, and tensioned cable networks that can be configured for various terrain conditions. This modular universal system eliminates the need for custom-built structures for each site, reducing manufacturing complexity while maintaining adaptability through flexible configuration options.
3Stability of the object's composition
If solar panels are fixed in rigid positions, then structural stability is improved, but solar radiation exposure efficiency deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent incorporates adjustable and reconfigurable support structures that allow the solar panels to be positioned at optimal angles for solar radiation exposure. The tensioned cable network and adjustable mounting systems enable structural stability while permitting optimization of panel orientation to maximize energy conversion efficiency.
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 solution enables flexible solar panels to efficiently convert solar energy into electricity, withstand harsh environmental conditions, and can be easily installed on various surfaces, reducing costs and enhancing energy harvesting capabilities.
Implementation Method 1
Photovoltaic modules can convert solar energy into electricity through the photovoltaic effect, which is a process by which the energy contained in photons is converted into electrical current.
Data Source
AI summary
Tensioned sheet-metal based solar panels and structures for supporting the same are disclosed. The sheet metal based solar panels can include a flexible photovoltaic solar module laminated onto a thin, flexible metal sheet. Such solar panels can be mounted on and tensioned within a support frame that is twisted out of plane with respect to a reference planar datum surface. The resulting surface can be a hyperbolic paraboloid, which can be aesthetically pleasing while improving structural stability and maximizing angular exposure to the sun.