Solar energy systems
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional solar energy systems face issues with obtrusive visual appearance and structural instability due to large collector panels, which impose undesirable force loads during heavy winds, necessitating an improved mounting assembly that maximizes solar exposure while minimizing ground space and requiring minimal support for stability.
Innovation Solution
The improved solar energy system employs a mounting assembly with solar active components mounted at their perimeter frames, allowing for orthogonal orientation to the ground, oscillation to absorb wind forces, and integration with support posts, enabling equal front and back sun exposure and resilience to heavy winds.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Area of moving object
If large collector panels are mounted prominently on a structure, then solar energy collection area is increased, but visual appearance becomes obtrusive and force loads during heavy wind increase
Solution Approach 1:
The solar collector system is divided into multiple smaller panel sections that can be independently mounted on different support structures. This segmentation allows the solar collection function to be distributed across multiple locations rather than concentrated in one large panel, reducing both visual impact and wind load on any single structure.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent transitions from ground-mounted horizontal panels to vertically oriented panels mounted on posts or structures. This dimensional change from horizontal to vertical orientation reduces the ground space required, minimizes visual obstruction at eye level, and decreases the effective wind surface area while maintaining solar collection capability through optimal vertical positioning.
2Productivity
If solar panels are mounted to maximize sun exposure, then energy collection efficiency is improved, but ground area space and structural support requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The system utilizes vertical mounting on posts rather than horizontal ground mounting, effectively moving the solar panels from the ground plane to a vertical dimension. This allows panels to be positioned in three-dimensional space where they can capture sunlight without occupying valuable ground area, while maintaining optimal exposure angles through adjustable vertical positioning.
Solution Approach 2:
The support posts serve multiple functions: they provide structural support for the solar panels, position them at optimal heights for sun exposure, and can be integrated with existing structures such as lighting poles or architectural elements. This multi-functionality reduces the need for dedicated ground space and simplifies the overall system footprint.
3Device complexity
If solar panels are mounted on minimal support structures, then structural complexity is reduced, but stability during heavy wind decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The mounting system incorporates dynamic elements such as flexible connections or adjustable mounting mechanisms that allow the panels to move slightly with wind forces rather than resisting them rigidly. This dynamic approach reduces stress on the support structures while maintaining panel functionality, enabling stable operation with simpler, lighter support structures.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces intermediary mounting components between the panels and support structures that distribute wind loads and provide shock absorption. These intermediary elements act as buffers that protect the minimal support structures from excessive wind forces while maintaining panel positioning and functionality.
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 solution provides efficient, aesthetically pleasing, and resilient solar energy systems that maximize solar exposure, reduce structural stress, and allow for flexible mounting configurations, suitable for various applications including solar lighting and drone charging stations.
Implementation Method 1
at least one solar active component ('solar fin') having at least one solar active face and a perimeter frame
Implementation Method 2
the mounting assembly allows the fin to oscillate with respect to a fixed mounting position in response to displacing forces, such as wind
Data Source
AI summary
A drone landing system includes a solar collector to charge the drone at a landing cite of the drone landing system. The solar collector may include a solar collector mounting assembly, preferably comprises a bi-facial solar active component mounted with its solar active face(s) orthogonal to the ground/horizon, at or near its perimeter frame.