Truss Foundation Adjustment Tool for Precise Solar Tracker Alignment
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing foundation systems for single-axis solar trackers face challenges in achieving precise alignment, which can lead to mechanical interference and undue strain on tracker components due to differences in design tolerances among various tracker systems.
Innovation Solution
A truss foundation adjustment tool is developed to adjust individual truss legs or the entire truss foundation, allowing for precise alignment within specified tolerances. The tool uses a pair of opposing collar portions with offset bearing points to apply bending forces to the truss legs without dislodging the screw anchors, enabling adjustments in the X, Y, and Z axes.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Manufacturing precision
If conventional monopile foundations are used to support single-axis trackers, then the foundation structure is simple and easy to install, but the alignment precision cannot meet the different tolerance requirements of various tracker systems
Solution Approach 1:
The foundation is divided into separate truss legs that can be independently adjusted. Each truss leg can be individually aligned and positioned, allowing precise control over the overall foundation alignment while maintaining a relatively simple overall structure.
Solution Approach 2:
The truss foundation incorporates adjustable components that allow post-installation alignment adjustments. The structure transitions from a fixed rigid form to a dynamically adjustable configuration, enabling precise alignment without requiring complex pre-fabrication.
2Adaptability or versatility
If tracker systems with different design tolerances are installed on the same foundation type, then foundation compatibility is improved, but mechanical interference and strain on tracker components occur due to misalignment
Solution Approach 1:
The foundation alignment parameters (position, orientation, elevation) can be adjusted within specific ranges to accommodate different tracker system tolerance requirements. This allows the same foundation type to serve multiple tracker manufacturers while maintaining component integrity.
Solution Approach 2:
The truss foundation design incorporates universal adjustment capabilities that can accommodate various tracker systems with different tolerance specifications. The foundation serves multiple functions: providing structural support, enabling precise alignment, and adapting to different tracker configurations.
3Manufacturing precision
If adjustment forces are applied to misaligned truss legs, then alignment precision is improved, but the screw anchors may be dislodged from the ground
Solution Approach 1:
The adjustment mechanism is segmented to apply forces locally to the truss leg structure without transmitting excessive forces to the screw anchors. By isolating the adjustment forces to specific structural elements, the anchors remain stable while the truss achieves proper alignment.
Solution Approach 2:
An intermediary adjustment mechanism is introduced between the applied force and the truss leg. This intermediary component distributes and controls the adjustment forces, preventing direct transmission of excessive forces that could dislodge the screw anchors while still achieving the necessary alignment.
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 tool effectively aligns the truss foundation with its intended axis, preventing mechanical interference and strain on tracker components, while maintaining the structural integrity of the foundation by avoiding dislodgment of the screw anchors.
Implementation Method 1
The tool uses a pair of opposing collar portions with offset bearing points to apply bending forces to the truss legs
Data Source
AI summary
A tool for adjusting driven truss components and assembled truss foundations. A bridge separates a pair of collars, each having a pair of offset bearing surfaces that fit around the truss legs. A lever arm terminating in a handle extends away from the bridge to give leverage to the tool operator. The bridge width is adjustable to enable positioning of the tool at different heights along the driven truss components. An additional receiver proximate to one of the collars may enable single leg operation. Lateral and angular adjustment of the lever arm with respect to the bridge may enable greater force to be applied to one leg relative to the other.