Apparatus, System, and Method for Vertical Solar Panels
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Solution Overview
Problem
The installation of solar panels is labor-intensive and costly due to their weight, size, and requirement for precise alignment, and they are prone to damage from environmental factors like gravity and wind, with shading issues affecting power generation.
Innovation Solution
Prefabricated and preassembled solar panels with flexible structures and adjustable mounting systems, including cables and sensors, allow for easy deployment without special equipment, dynamic height adjustment, and optimized orientation to minimize shading.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If solar panels are installed using traditional methods with support structures, then the panels can be securely held in place, but the installation requires considerable labor and time, and special equipment such as cranes may be needed
Solution Approach 1:
The solar panel system is divided into modular units with integrated mounting features. Each panel includes separate mounting brackets and connection mechanisms that allow individual panels to be installed independently and securely attached to support structures without requiring complex equipment or extensive labor for each panel.
Solution Approach 2:
Mounting brackets, connection hardware, and alignment features are pre-assembled and pre-positioned on the solar panels during manufacturing. This preliminary preparation eliminates the need for on-site assembly and alignment adjustments, enabling rapid installation while maintaining secure attachment.
2Reliability
If solar panels are installed using traditional methods, then they can be held in place, but the installation is labor-intensive and costly
Solution Approach 1:
The solar panel mounting system incorporates self-aligning features, self-locking mechanisms, and tool-free connection components. These self-service elements automatically guide proper alignment and secure attachment during installation, eliminating the need for skilled labor, complex procedures, or specialized equipment while ensuring stable installation.
Solution Approach 2:
The mounting system uses adjustable parameters such as flexible mounting bracket angles, variable tension cables, and adaptable connection points that can be easily modified during installation to accommodate different roof types and panel configurations, simplifying the installation process while maintaining stability.
3Stability of the object's composition
If solar panels are rigidly fixed, then they are stable, but they are prone to damage from environmental factors like wind and gravity
Solution Approach 1:
The mounting system incorporates dynamic elements such as flexible mounting brackets, articulated connection joints, and tensioned cable systems that allow the solar panels to move slightly in response to wind loads and thermal expansion. This dynamic capability reduces stress accumulation and prevents damage from rigid constraints while maintaining overall panel stability through controlled movement and energy dissipation.
4Use of energy by moving object
If solar panels are installed horizontally, then they maximize energy absorption, but they experience shading that affects power generation
Solution Approach 1:
The system transitions from traditional horizontal panel installation to vertical or tilted three-dimensional configurations. This dimensional change allows panels to be arranged in stacked or multi-level configurations that eliminate inter-row shading while maintaining adequate sunlight exposure on all panel surfaces, thereby preserving energy absorption efficiency without suffering from shading losses.
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
Facilitates rapid, cost-effective installation and enhances power generation by reducing damage from environmental factors and optimizing sunlight exposure.
Implementation Method 1
Photovoltaic solar panels, also referred to as solar panels or as photovoltaic (PV) panels, typically absorb sunlight and use irradiant energy in the sunlight in order to generate direct current (DC) electricity. Solar panels include an array of photovoltaic cells.
Implementation Method 2
The solar panels may comprise one or more flexible joints to allow movements with the wind and to prevent excessive rotations (e.g., flip).
Data Source
AI summary
Systems, apparatuses, and methods are described for vertical solar panels. Prefabricated and/or preassembled solar panels may be deployed fast, for example, by using a special packaging. Support structures may be easily installed to support (e.g., hang) the solar panels. The solar panels may be pretensioned and/or comprise structural designs (e.g., holes, frames, flexibility, etc.) to have reliability and/or longevity under a hanging condition and wind impact. The heights of vertically-installed solar panels may be dynamically adjusted, for example, based on inputs from sensors and/or time of day. Inter-row shading may be changed based on height adjustment among multiple rows of vertical solar panels.