Vertical PV Strip Modules for Omnidirectional Pole-Mounted Solar Capture

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Solution Overview

Problem

Conventional solar-powered lighting systems using flat PV panels are limited by dirt buildup, wind loads, seasonal solar energy capture, snow accumulation, and vertical height restrictions, as well as inefficiencies in capturing diffused solar energy and aesthetics.

Innovation Solution

The system employs vertically oriented PV strips wrapped around poles with articulated hinges and flexible strips, allowing omnidirectional solar capture, reduced wind resistance, and concealed attachments, enabling efficient energy harvesting and customizable installation on various pole sizes and shapes.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Use of energy by moving object

If conventional flat PV panels are used with optimal tilt angle, then annual solar energy production is maximized, but dirt buildup, wind loads, and snow accumulation occur

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvesolar energy productionVSAvoiddirt buildup, wind loads, snow accumulation

Core Design Contradiction:

Use of energy by moving objectVSObject-affected harmful factors

Solution Approach 1:

The patent applies curvature by wrapping PV strips around vertical poles in a cylindrical configuration. This curved arrangement allows solar energy to be captured from multiple directions (omnidirectional capture) while the rounded surface prevents dirt and snow accumulation compared to flat panels. The aerodynamic profile reduces wind loads while maintaining structural integrity.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #14Spheroidality (Curvature)

Solution Approach 2:

The patent transitions from two-dimensional flat panel orientation to three-dimensional cylindrical wrapping around vertical poles. This dimensional change enables the PV system to capture solar energy from all horizontal directions simultaneously, eliminating the need for optimal tilt angle adjustments and reducing exposure to harmful environmental factors.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #17Another dimension (Dimensionality change)

2Use of energy by moving object

If vertically oriented PV strips are wrapped around poles, then omnidirectional solar capture and reduced wind resistance are achieved, but attachment complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveomnidirectional solar captureVSAvoidattachment structure

Core Design Contradiction:

Use of energy by moving objectVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent segments the PV system into modular strips that can be independently wrapped and attached around the pole. Each strip is a discrete unit that can be handled, positioned, and secured separately, simplifying the overall installation process despite the three-dimensional configuration. The segmented approach allows for easier maintenance and replacement of individual modules.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The patent employs flexible mounting mechanisms including straps, clips, and adhesive elements that can conform to the cylindrical pole surface. These flexible attachment methods simplify the securing process compared to rigid fixed-angle mounts, allowing the PV strips to be easily wrapped and fixed around various pole diameters and shapes.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #30Flexible shells and thin films

3Power

If high efficiency rigid crystalline silicon PV strips are used, then power output increases, but flexibility for bending is reduced

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvepower outputVSAvoidflexibility for bending

Core Design Contradiction:

PowerVSAdaptability or versatility

Solution Approach 1:

The patent divides the PV system into multiple rigid strips rather than attempting to bend a single large rigid panel. Each individual strip maintains its rigid structure for high efficiency and structural integrity, while the segmented arrangement allows the overall system to conform to the cylindrical pole through modular positioning and articulated connections between strips.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #1Segmentation

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

This configuration enhances solar energy capture across seasons and directions, reduces maintenance, and supports higher power outputs while maintaining a slim, aerodynamic profile, overcoming limitations of traditional systems.

Implementation Method 1

a plurality of PV strips

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectPhotovoltaic effect: Photovoltaic Effect

Data Source

PatentUS9577572B2System of solar modules configured for attachment to vertical structures

Publication Date: 2017.02.21 SOLARTONIC LLC

AI summary

A system of solar PV strip modules and method of use designed to integrate with vertical structures such as poles. The system and method use articulated semi-rigid solar PV strip modules and components with elastic characteristics to enable a high static-friction attachment to the structure. The static friction exceeds the force of gravity, enabling the solar PV strip modules to remain in place upon the vertical structure. The PV strip modules can have a rectangular shape or any other shape that enables customized or variable modular assembly and attachment to the structure.