Vertical Solar Strip Modules for Pole Mounting to Reduce Dirt Buildup
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing solar-powered lighting systems face limitations in efficiency and durability due to dirt buildup, wind loads, and seasonal solar energy capture, particularly when using flat tilted panels, which also restricts the application of high-efficiency rigid crystalline silicon technology.
Innovation Solution
A system of vertically oriented solar modules with articulated strips that wrap around poles, utilizing semi-rigid cleats and flexible strips for secure attachment, allowing omnidirectional solar capture and accommodating various pole shapes, while maintaining an aerodynamic profile and minimizing visual impact.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Use of energy by moving object
If flat tilted panels are used to maximize annual solar energy production, then energy capture efficiency is improved, but dirt and snow buildup occurs reducing reliability
Solution Approach 1:
The patent inverts the conventional horizontal/tilted panel orientation by mounting solar panels vertically on pole structures. This vertical orientation prevents dirt and snow accumulation while maintaining effective solar energy capture through omnidirectional tracking capabilities, thus resolving the contradiction between energy capture efficiency and reliability.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent employs dynamically adjustable solar panels that can rotate and tilt relative to the vertical pole axis. This dynamic positioning allows the panels to optimize their angle for capturing solar energy from different directions throughout the day and seasons, maintaining high energy capture efficiency while preserving the vertical mounting configuration that prevents dirt and snow buildup.
2Power
If high efficiency rigid crystalline silicon technology is used, then power output is improved, but flexibility in installation is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the rigid crystalline silicon solar panels into smaller modular units that can be independently mounted on the vertical pole structure. This segmentation allows the high-efficiency rigid panels to be installed in a flexible vertical configuration, accommodating different pole sizes and shapes while maintaining the power output benefits of rigid crystalline silicon technology.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent transitions from conventional horizontal/tilted panel installation to vertical mounting, adding a vertical dimension to the solar panel configuration. This dimensional change enables rigid crystalline silicon panels to be installed on vertical poles with varying diameters and shapes, providing installation flexibility without compromising the high power output characteristics of rigid solar technology.
3Adaptability or versatility
If vertical pole mounting is used, then adaptability to different locations is improved, but wind load resistance is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs curved or cylindrical pole structures for vertical mounting, which provide aerodynamic advantages by reducing wind resistance compared to flat or angular mounting surfaces. The curved geometry allows wind to flow more smoothly around the pole, reducing wind load while maintaining the vertical configuration that enables location adaptability.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent uses flexible mounting brackets and attachment mechanisms that can accommodate various pole diameters and shapes. These flexible components allow the solar panel assembly to be securely mounted on different pole configurations while maintaining aerodynamic efficiency and resistance to wind loads through proper structural design.
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 reduces maintenance, increases power output, and supports high-efficiency solar technologies by avoiding dirt and snow buildup, while allowing for flexible installation on different pole sizes and shapes.
Implementation Method 1
The flexible strip provides an elastic support layer between the U hanger brackets and the column surface
Implementation Method 2
A plurality of PV strips; high efficiency rigid crystalline silicon technology
Data Source
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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.