Heliostat repositioning system and method.
Abstract
Un sistema y método para proveer control en tiempo real de un conjunto ordenado de heliostatos o un módulo FVC/FV que reduce el costo de activación, la invención reduce el costo fijo de calibrar y reposicionar una superficie individual. Esto elimina simultáneamente la suposición central de la ingeniería que impulsa el desarrollo de seguidores solares grandes, y permite contar con un sistema y método para seguir la posición solar con superficies pequeñas de manera efectiva en cuanto al costo. Además de reducir el costo inicial, un heliostato o seguidor solar pequeño puede pre-ensamblarse, producirse en masa y transportarse más fácilmente. Los mecanismos más pequeños también pueden instalarse con simples herramientas manuales y no requieren que los instaladores renten grúas o equipos de instalación costosos.

Term
4.7 yearsleft in the term
Expires 27 May 2031.
- Priority
- Filed
- Granted
- Today
- Expires
30 claims: 6 independent, 24 dependent
- 1REIVINDICACIONES 1. Un sistema para controlar múltiples superficies ' solares, que comprende:·* una viga para fijar una trayectoria predeterminada;una primera superficies solares una segunda superficies solares superficie que tiene un superficie que tiene un solar de engranaje de solar de engranaje de las múltiples acoplamiento;las múltiples acoplamiento;cada estructura de soporte teniendo: un árbol acoplado a la superficie solar correspondiente y un primer engranaje de entrada, el primer engranaje de entrada está configurado para recibir una primera entrada para girar dicha superficie solar en una primera dirección, el acoplamiento del árbol y dicha superficie solar configurados para permitir que gire dicha superficie solar en una segunda dirección;y INDUSTRIAL una estructura exterior que envuelve al árbol y acoplada a un segundo engranaje de entrada y un engranaje de salida, el engranaje de salida está configurado para engranar el engranaje de acoplamiento de dicha superficie solar, el configurado para colocar dicho robot a lo largo de dicha viga, el robot configurado para engranar engranajes de entrada de la primera estructura de soporte para modificar la orientación de la primera superficie solar cuando el robot está colocado cerca de dicha primera posición de dicha viga, y para engranar engranajes de entrada de la segunda estructura de soporte para modificar la orientación de la segunda superficie solar cuando el robot está colocado cerca de dicha segunda posición de dicha viga.
- 2El sistema de la reivindicación 1, en donde el robot además comprende:un dispositivo de detección de posición configurado para identificar una posición del robot sobre la viga;un módulo de alineación, dispuesto para interactuar con los engranajes de entrada de dichas estructuras de soporte. IMPI^g instituto mexicano OC LA «tOREDAD wcwsnuAi
- 3El sistema de la reivindicación 2, en donde dicho módulo de alineación interactúa con los engranajes de entrada utilizando una interfaz mecánica.
- 4El sistema de la reivindicación 3, en donde dicho módulo de alineación incluye engranajes de alineación que se acoplan a los engranajes de entrada de la primera estructura de soporte para modificar la orientación de la primera superficie solar cuando dicho robot está colocado cerca de la primera posición.
- 5El sistema de la reivindicación 4, en donde dicho módulo de alineación incluye engranajes de alineación que se acoplan a los engranajes de entrada de la segunda estructura de soporte para modificar la orientación de la segunda superficie solar cuando dicho robot está colocado cerca de la segunda posición.
- 6El sistema de la reivindicación 2, en donde dicho módulo de alineación incluye una interfaz electromagnética configurada para engranar los engranajes de entrada de la primera estructura de soporte.
- 7El sistema de la reivindicación 6, en donde, en el módulo de alineación, incluye al menos un primer dispositivo electromagnético configurado para engranar un segundo dispositivo electromagnético de uno de los engranajes de entrada de la primera estructura de soporte.
- 8El sistema de la reivindicación IMPI instituto mexicano DE IA PROPIEDAD INDUSTRIAL 7, en donde dicho primer dispositivo electromagnético hace que dicho segundo dispositivo electromagnético se mueva modifique la orientación de dicha primera superficie solar.
- 9El sistema de la reivindicación 1, en donde la primera estructura de soporte incluye un mecanismo de freno configurado para resistir el movimiento de la primera superficie solar cuando el robot no se encuentra en la primera posición.
- 10El sistema de la reivindicación 1, en donde dicho robot está ubicado dentro de dicha viga.
- 11El sistema de la reivindicación 1, en donde dicha viga incluye una cubierta, en donde dicha cubierta y viga forman una trayectoria encerrada, y en donde dicho robot viaja a lo largo de dicha trayectoria cerrada.
- 12El sistema de la reivindicación 1, en donde dicho robot incluye:un sensor de calibración para detectar una orientación inicial de dicha primera superficie solar cuando está ubicada cerca de dicha primera posición, el robot configurado para engranar los engranajes de entrada de la primera estructura de soporte para modificar la orientación de la primera superficie solar con base en la orientación inicial. IMPI INSTITUTO MEXICANO DE LA PROPIEDAD INDUSTRIAL
- 13El sistema de la reivindicación 1, en donde dicho robot incluye:un sensor de calibración para detectar una orientación inicial de dicha segunda superficie solar cuando está ubicada cerca de dicha segunda posición, el robot configurado para engranar los engranajes de entrada de la segunda estructura de soporte para modificar la orientación de la segunda superficie solar con base en la orientación inicial.
- 14El sistema de la reivindicación 1, en donde dicho robot engrana autónomamente dicho primer engranaje de entrada de la primera estructura de soporte y dicho segundo engranaje de entrada de la segunda estructura de soporte.
- 15El sistema de la reivindicación 1, en donde el robot incluye:una interfaz de carga de energía configurada para almacenar energía en un dispositivo de almacenamiento de energía interno.
- 16El sistema de la reivindicación 1, que además comprende un segundo robot, en donde dichos robots primero y segundo se comunican utilizando un sistema de comunicación inalámbrico.
- 17Un sistema para controlar múltiples superficies solares, que comprende:INSTITUTO MEXICANO DE LA PROPIEDAD INDUSTRIAL una viga;una primera superficies solares una segunda superficies solares superficie gue tiene un superficie que tiene un solar de mecanismo de solar de mecanismo de las múltiples acoplamiento;las múltiples acoplamiento;cada estructura de soporte teniendo: un árbol acoplado a la superficie solar correspondiente y un primer mecanismo de entrada, el primer mecanismo de entrada está configurado para recibir una primera entrada para girar dicha superficie solar en una primera dirección, el acoplamiento del árbol y dicha superficie solar configurado para permitir que gire dicha superficie solar en una segunda dirección;y una estructura exterior que envuelve al árbol y acoplada en un segundo mecanismo de entrada y un mecanismos de salida, el mecanismo de salida está configurado para engranar el IMPIAS*INSTITUTO MEXICANO OF. LA PROPIEDAD industrial mecanismo de acoplamiento de dicha superficie solar, el configurado para colocar dicho robot a lo largo de dicha viga, el robot configurado para engranar mecanismos de entrada de la primera estructura de soporte para modificar la orientación de la primera superficie solar cuando el robot está colocado cerca de dicha primera posición de dicha viga, y para engranar un mecanismo de entrada de la segunda estructura de soporte para modificar la orientación de dicha segunda superficie solar cuando el robot está colocado cerca de dicha segunda posición de dicha viga.
- 18El sistema de la reivindicación 17, en donde el robot además comprende:un dispositivo de detección de posición configurado para identificar una posición del robot sobre la viga;un módulo de alineación, dispuesto para interactuar con los mecanismos de entrada de dichas estructuras de soporte.
- 19El sistema de la reivindicación 18, en donde dicho módulo de alineación interactúa con dichos mecanismos de entrada utilizando una interfaz mecánica.
- 20El sistema de módulo de alineación entrada utilizando una 5Γ la reivindicación 18, en donde dicho interactúa con dichos mecanismos de interfaz electromagnética.
- 21El sistema de la reivindicación 17, en donde dicho robot engrana autónomamente dicho primer mecanismo de entrada de la primera estructura de soporte y dicho segundo mecanismo de entrada de la segunda estructura de soporte.
- 22Un sistema para controlar múltiples superficies solares, que comprende:una viga para determinar una trayectoria predeterminada;una primera superficies solares una segunda superficies solares superficie que tiene un superficie que tiene un solar de mecanismo de solar de mecanismo de las múltiples acoplamiento;las múltiples acoplamiento;una primera estructura de soporte operable para ajustar una orientación de la primera superficie solar desde una primera posición;y una segunda estructura de soporte operable para ajustar una orientación de la segunda superficie solar desde una segunda posición, cada estructura de soporte teniendo: un árbol acoplado a la superficie solar correspondiente y un primer mecanismo de entrada, el primer mecanismo de entrada está configurado para recibir una primera entrada IMPI INSTITUTO MEXICANO M LA PROPIEDAD INDUSTRIAL para girar la superficie solar en una primera dirección, el acoplamiento del árbol y la superficie solar configurado para permitir que gire la superficie solar en una segunda dirección;y una estructura exterior que envuelve al árbol y acoplada en un segundo mecanismo de entrada y un mecanismo de salida, el mecanismo de salida está configurado para engranar el mecanismo de acoplamiento de la superficie solar, el segundo mecanismo de entrada configurado para recibir una segunda entrada para girar dicha superficie solar en la segunda dirección;y un robot que incluye un sistema de accionamiento configurado para colocar dicho robot a lo largo de dicha viga en la primera posición y en la segunda posición, el robot configurado para engranar un mecanismo de entrada de la primera estructura de soporte para modificar la orientación de la primera superficie solar cuando el robot se encuentra en la primera posición, y para engranar un mecanismo de entrada de la segunda estructura de soporte para modificar la orientación de la segunda superficie solar cuando el robot se encuentra en la segunda posición. 1l i? A INSTITUTO MEXICANO DE LA FROWTXiW
- 23El sistema de la reivindicación 22, ”*'en’ iAt doncTe el robot además comprende:un dispositivo de detección de posición configurado para identificar una posición del robot;un módulo de alineación, dispuesto para interactuar con los mecanismos de entrada de dichas estructuras de soporte.
- 24El sistema de la reivindicación 23, en donde dicho módulo de alineación interactúa con los mecanismos de entrada utilizando una interfaz mecánica.
- 25El sistema de la reivindicación 23, en donde el módulo de alineación interactúa con los mecanismos de entrada utilizando una interfaz electromagnética.
- 26El sistema de la reivindicación 22, en donde dicho robot engrana autónomamente uno del primer mecanismo de entrada o el segundo mecanismo de entrada de la segunda estructura de soporte.
- 27El sistema de la reivindicación 22, en donde el robot incluye:una interfaz de carga de energía configurada para almacenar energía en un dispositivo de almacenamiento de energía interno. IMP1 INSTITUTO MEXICANO DE LA PROPIEDAD INDUSTRIAL de la reivindicación 22, que además
- 28El sistema comprende un segundo robot, en donde los robots primero y segundo se comunican utilizando un sistema de comunicación inalámbrico.
- 29El sistema de la reivindicación 22, en donde el robot incluye:un sensor de calibración para detectar una orientación inicial de dicha primera superficie solar cuando el robot se encuentra en la primera posición, el robot configurado para engranar al menos uno de los mecanismos de entrada primero y segundo de la primera estructura de soporte para modificar la orientación de la primera superficie solar con base en la orientación inicial.
- 30El sistema de la reivindicación 22, en donde dicho robot incluye:un sensor de calibración para detectar una orientación inicial de dicha segunda superficie solar cuando el robot se encuentra en la segunda posición, el robot configurado para engranar al menos uno de los mecanismos de entrada primero y segundo de la segunda estructura de soporte para modificar la orientación de la segunda superficie solar con base en la orientación inicial. l
Independent claims30
212 paragraphs in 51 sections, as filed
(54) Title: HELIOSTATE REPOSITIONING SYSTEM AND METHOD.
(54) Title: HELIOSTAT REPOSITIONING SYSTEM AND METHOD.
(57) Summary
A system and method for providing real-time control of an ordered set of heliostats or an FVC / FV module that reduces the cost of activation, the invention reduces the fixed cost of calibrating and repositioning an individual surface. This simultaneously eliminates the core engineering assumption that drives the development of large solar trackers, and enables a system and method to track solar position with small surfaces in a cost effective manner. In addition to reducing the initial cost, a small heliostat or solar tracker can be pre-assembled, mass produced, and transported more easily. The smallest mechanisms can also be installed with simple hand tools and do not require installers to rent expensive installation equipment or cranes.
(57) Abstract
A system and method for providing real time control of a heliostat array or CPV / PV module that reduces actuation cost, the disclosure reduces the fixed cost of calibrating and repositioning an individual surface. This simultaneously removes the core engineering assumption that drives the development of large trackers, and enables a system and method to cost effectively track a small surface. In addition to lower initial capital cost, a small heliostat or solar tracker can be preassembled, mass-produced, and shipped more easily. Smaller mechanisms can also be installed with simple hand tools and do not require installers to rent expensive cranes or installation equipment.
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PATENT TITLE NO. 343473
I KNOW
SKWMlA I heard KOHOMto,
Mexican Institute of Industrial Property
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<td>Headlines):</td><td>SOLARCITY CORPORATION</td>
<td>Home:</td><td>3055 Clearview Way, San Mateo, California, 94402, USA</td>
<td>Denomination:</td><td>HELIOSTATE REPOSITIONING SYSTEM AND METHOD</td>
<td>Classification:</td><td>Int.CI.8: F24J2 / 38; F24J2 / 54</td>
<td>Inventor (s):</td><td>THOMAS CURRIER</td>
REQUEST
Number: International filing date!
MX / a / 2012/013755 May 27, 2011
PRIORITY
<td>Country:</td><td>Date:</td><td>Number:</td>
<td>US</td><td>May 28, 2010</td><td> 61/349,697</td>
<td>US</td><td>July 15, 2010</td><td> 61/364,729</td>
<td>US</td><td>December 3, 2010</td><td> 61/419,685</td>
Validity: Twenty years
Expiration Date: May 27, 2031
The reference patent is granted based on articles 1<sup>or</sup>, 2<sup>or</sup> fraction V, 6th fraction III, and 59 of the Industrial Property Law.
In accordance with article 23 of the Industrial Property Law, I submit it <sub>0</sub> it has a validity of twenty years, which cannot be extended, '- counted from the date of presentation of the international solidity and will be af'pt ^ tr da M Wfa to keep the' rights in force. = • '. Who subscribes the prenote title does so with fundarioatogen the provisions of the "ficutoa # · (Motones III and 7<sup>or</sup> bis 2 tje the Industrial Property Law (newspaper OficBI de la Federación (D.UF) í '/ iI5 1W' effective on 02.08 / 1 W '25/10/1996, 12/26/1997, 17 / 05/1999, 01/26/2004, 06/16/200 $, 01/25/2 (06, 06/05 / 2009,06 / 01/201 or 1W06 / 2010, 08/28/2010, 27 / 01/2012 and 04/09/2012); articles T>, 3 'section V', subsection a), 4 and 12 ° of work I and III of the Regulations of the MBXRMMOittAHa'Wüpiedad Industrial Institute (DOF 14/12/19 (8, Reformed on 07/01/2Q02, 07/15/2002; 07/28/2 (84 and 07/09/2007) -Articles 1<sup>or</sup>, 3°, 4° 5<sup>or</sup> fraction V subsection a), 16 sections I and III and 30 of the Organic Statute dWtnsWüto MexfcariO «fe the Inrhjstrial Property (DW 27mt999.refonrtwte ehWt0f2O02, 07/29/2004, 04/08/2004 and 13709/2007); one<sup>or</sup>, 3 »and 5<sup>or</sup> subsection a) of the Agreement that delegates powers to the Deputy Directors General, Coordinator, Divisional Directors, Heads of Regional Offices, Divisional Deputy Directors, Departmental Coordinators and other subordinates of the Mexican Institute of Industrial Property. (DOF 12/15/1999, amended on 02/04/2000, 07/29/2004, 08/04/2004 and 09/13/2007).
Issue Date: November 7, 2016
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Arenal No 550. Floor 1. ol Pueblo Santa María Tepepan,
Xochirni co. CP 16020.
Mexico City (55j 53 34 07 00 www.imDi qoP mx
THE DIVISIONAL DIRECTOR OF PATENTS
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NAHANNY CANAL REYES
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I
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, INDUSTRIAL
HELIOSTATE REPOSITIONING SYSTEM AND METHOD
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RELATED REQUESTS
This application claims priority based on US Patent Provisional Application No. 61 / 349,697 filed on May 28, 2010, US Patent Provisional Application No. 61 / 364,729 filed on July 15, 2010, and Provisional Patent Application. No. 61 / 419,685 filed on December 3, 2010, all of which are incorporated herein by reference.
FIELD OF THE INVENTION
The present invention relates to calibration and solar tracking devices, and in particular, to photovoltaic tracking systems that require constant repositioning to maintain alignment with the sun.
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
In an attempt to reduce the price of solar energy, many developments have been made to decrease the cost of precisely repositioning and calibrating a surface with two degrees of freedom. In concentrated solar thermal systems, ordered sets of heliostats can use dual axis repositioning mechanisms to redirect sunlight to a central tower, causing the normal vector of the heliostat mirror to fork the angle between the current position of the sun and the target . The heat generated in the central tower can then be used to generate steam for industrial applications or electricity for the utility grid.
Concentrated photovoltaic (FVC) systems take advantage of dual axis mechanisms to achieve a position where the normal vector of the FVC surface coincides with the solar position vector. When the FVC surface is aligned with
IMPI
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INSTITUTO MEXICANO DE LA PROPERTY INOUSTIUAl the sun, internal optics can concentrate sunlight into a small, high-efficiency photovoltaic cell.
Dual axis positioning systems also allow flat plate photovoltaic (PV) systems to produce more energy through sun tracking. Compared to fixed tilt systems, dual axis PV systems produce 3540% more energy on an annual basis. While this increase in energy production may seem attractive, current technology marginalizes the value of biaxial solar tracking by increasing the total capital cost of the system and maintenance costs by 40-50%.
Traditional solutions to the problem of controlling and calibrating an individual surface fall into one of three main categories: individual active drive, crowding of modules or mirrors, and passive control. In the single active drive model, each dual axis system requires two motors, a microprocessor, a backup power supply, field wiring, and an electronic system to control and calibrate each surface. Furthermore, all components must have a useful life of more than 20 years and the system must be sealed to protect itself from the harsh installation environment. In an attempt to separate the fixed cost of controlling an individual surface, conventional thinking engineers within the individual drive paradigm are building 150 square meter heliostats (m<sup>TO</sup>2) and FV / FVC trackers of 225 square meters. While control costs are reduced at this size, large trackers have increased installation, foundation and steel requirements.
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MSXICAN INSTITUTE OF INDUSTRIAL PR PIETY
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Another approach attempts to solve fixed cost of control problems by joining multiple surfaces together with a cable or mechanical joint. While this separates the costs of motor drive, it has strict requirements regarding flattening of the ground, greatly complicates the installation process, and carries higher cost of steel, due to the necessary stiffness of mechanical links. Due to constant soil arrangement and imperfections in manufacturing and installation, heliostats and FVC systems require individual adjustments that increase system complexity and maintenance costs.
Passive systems that use hydraulic fluids, bimetallic bars, or bio-inspired materials to follow the sun are limited to flat photovoltaic plate applications and their performance is inferior compared to individually or group powered systems. Furthermore, these systems cannot execute backtracking algorithms that optimize solar fields for energy performance and degree of ground cover.
COMPENDIUM
It is a general object of some embodiments to provide a low cost solar tracking system that is capable of accurately controlling and calibrating a surface with two degrees of freedom without an individual microprocessor, azimuth drive, lift drive, system control central, or a backup power supply. These components are replaced by a mechanical orientation locking position mechanism with adjustable orientation and a single robotic controller that accommodates a large row (100+) of individual mirrors, FVC modules, or flat plate solar panels, autonomously.
MEXICAN INSTITUTE OF PROPERTY
It is a second object of some embodiments to eliminate the need for individual solar calibration sensors, by coupling a calibration sensor system with the robotic controller, so that this device can determine the precise orientation of a mirror, an FVC module, or a solar panel, and by adjusting it according to the field layout, a known target, and / or the current position of the sun.
It is a third general object of some embodiments to lock the position of the mechanical position lock mechanism at times when it is not being repositioned by a robotic controller. At its minimum level of complexity, the mechanical position locking mechanism consists of a single deformable bond or a high friction joint.
It is a fourth general object of some embodiments to use a gear or gear train system in the mechanical position lock mechanism to transform the rotational repositioning of two input shafts into two degrees of surface freedom. Surface can be locked by using an external brake system or by designing the gear or gear train system so that they cannot be pulled back.
It is a fifth general object of some embodiments to adjust individual mechanical position locking mechanisms using a magnetic or electromagnetic interface that eliminates the need for the robotic controller to come into direct contact with the precision controlled surface bearing mechanical interface.
It is a sixth general object of some embodiments to substantially reduce the cost and complexity of installation, by pre-assembling rows of mechanisms from ¥ Tí) ¥ á IM xk
MEXICAN INSTITUTE Vjr * »®
PROPERTY LOCKING POSITION, and by using post bases to eliminate the need to level the installation field.
It is a seventh general object of some embodiments to provide electrical power to the robotic controller through the use of an onboard or built-in energy storage system, in conjunction with a charging mechanism.
It is an eighth general object of some embodiments to provide electrical power to the robotic controller through the use of an electrified rail or anchored wiring system that eliminates the need to store power on board.
It is a ninth general object of some embodiments to use this heliostat repositioning system in conjunction with central receivers for solar thermal energy, central photovoltaic receivers, central receivers for water misalignment and industrial current applications, or to follow an FVC module or panel PV in a cost efficient way.
A system for controlling multiple solar surfaces comprising a support beam or track; a first solar surface of the multiple solar surfaces coupled to a first end of a first support structure, wherein a second end of said first support structure is coupled to a first position of the biga and said first support structure includes a first position locking mechanism; a second solar surface of the multiple solar surfaces coupled to a first end of a second support structure, wherein a second end of said second support structure is coupled to a second position of the beam and said second support structure includes a second position locking mechanism; and a robotic controller, which includes a drive system to position said controller
IMPI
INSTITUTO MEXICANO r »E LA PROPIEDAD <2 INDUSTRIAL
<img file="MX343473B_D0011.tif" />
robotic on the beam and to modify the direction of the first solar surface when said robotic controller is positioned near said first position of the beam, and to modify the direction of the second solar surface when the robotic controller is located near the second position of said beam.
Mention of these general objects of the invention is not exhaustive and is not intended to limit the scope of the present invention.
The features and advantages described herein are not entirely inclusive and, in particular, many additional features and advantages will be apparent to those skilled in the art in view of the figures and the description. Furthermore, it should be noted that the language used in the description has been selected primarily for ease of reading and instructions, and may not have been selected to delineate or circumscribe the object of the invention.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE FIGURES
Figure 1 is an illustration of an environment in which an embodiment of the invention can operate.
Fig. 2 is an illustration of a photovoltaic (PV) surface having a mechanical position lock mechanism according to one embodiment.
Fig. 3 is a more detailed illustration of the mechanical position lock mechanism according to one embodiment.
Figure 4 is an exploded illustration of the mechanical position lock mechanism according to one embodiment.
Fig. 5 is an illustration of the mechanical position lock system attached to a support beam according to one embodiment.
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MEXICAN INSTITUTE OF THE PR ΗίΓΜΓ 'INDUSTIUAL
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FIG. 6 is an illustration of an eTfloor mounted support beam system according to one embodiment.
Figure 7 is an illustration of a secondary gear train system that interfaces with a mechanical position lock mechanism in accordance with one embodiment.
Figure 8 is an illustration of another embodiment of a secondary gear train system that interfaces with a mechanical position lock mechanism.
Figure 9 is an illustration of another embodiment of a secondary gear train system utilizing an actuated brake mechanism.
Fig. 10 is an illustration of an electromagnetic interface according to one embodiment.
Fig. 11 is an illustration of a system that provides electrical power to the robotic controller through a contact based charging system in accordance with one embodiment.
Fig. 12 is an illustration of a system that provides electrical power to the robotic controller through an electrified rail according to one embodiment.
Fig. 13 is an illustration of a robotic controller according to one embodiment.
Fig. 14 is a more detailed illustration of a robotic controller without its top chassis, in accordance with one embodiment.
Fig. 15 is a more detailed illustration of an electromagnetic interface system of a robotic controller in accordance with one embodiment.
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INSTITUTO MEXICANO OS LA PROFtEDAC INDUSTRIAL
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Figure 16 is an illustration of a robotic controller that calibrates and / or adjusts each position lock mechanism using a mechanical interface in accordance with one embodiment.
Figure 17 is an illustration of a robotic controller that calibrates and / or adjusts each position lock mechanism using two electromagnetic interfaces according to one embodiment.
Fig. 18 is an illustration of a robotic controller according to one embodiment.
Fig. 19 is an illustration of a robotic controller using a mechanical adjustment interface according to one embodiment.
Fig. 20 is an illustration of a robotic controller using two electromagnetic tuning interfaces in accordance with one embodiment.
The figures illustrate various embodiments of the present invention for illustrative purposes only. A person skilled in the art will readily recognize, from the following description, that alternative embodiments of the structures and methods illustrated herein can be employed without departing from the principles of the invention described herein. Detailed description of the invention
Next, a preferred embodiment of the present invention is described with reference to the figures, where identical reference numerals indicate identical or functionally similar elements.
References in the description to "one embodiment" mean that a particular feature or structure described in connection with the embodiments is included in at least one embodiment of the invention. The occurrences of the phrase "in a
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MEXICAN INSTITUTE OF PROPERTY
INDUSTRIAL ___ realization ”in various places of the description do not necessarily refer to the same realization.
Some portions of the detailed description that follows are presented in terms of algorithms and symbolic representations of operations on bits of data within a memory of a computer. These algorithmic descriptions and representations are the means used by those skilled in the art of data processing to more effectively convey the substance of their work to others in the art. An algorithm is conceived here, and in general, as an intrinsically consistent sequence of steps (instructions) that lead to a desired result. The steps are those that require physical manipulation of physical quantities. Usually, but not necessarily, these quantities take the form of electrical, magnetic, or optical signals capable of being stored, transferred, combined, compared, or otherwise manipulated. It is sometimes convenient, mainly for reasons of common use, to refer to these signals as bits, values, elements, symbols, characters, terms, numbers, or the like. Furthermore, it is also convenient, at times, to refer to certain step arrangements that require physical manipulations or transformation of physical quantities or representations of physical quantities such as modules or code devices, without losing generality.
However, all of these terms and similar terms must be associated with the appropriate physical quantities and are merely convenient labels applied to these quantities. Unless specifically stated otherwise, or that is evident from the following discussion, it is understood that throughout the description, the use of terms such as "processing" or "computing" / "computational", or "of
IMPI
ΠβΤΠνΤΟ H1XJCANO
DELAnOISDAD NMSnUAL calculation ”or“ that determine ”or“ that represent ”or the like, refer to the action and processes of a computing system, or similar electronic computing devices (such as a specific computing machine), which manipulates and Transforms data represented as physical (electronic) quantities into the memories or records of the computer system or other information storage, transmission or display devices.
Certain aspects of the present invention include steps and process instructions described herein in the form of an algorithm. It should be noted that the process steps and instructions of the present invention may be represented in software, firmware, or hardware and, when represented in software, may be downloaded to be stored on, and operated from different platforms used by a variety of operating systems. . The invention may also be in a computer program product that can be run on a computer system.
The present invention also relates to an apparatus for carrying out the operations described herein. This apparatus may be specially constructed for these purposes, for example, a specific computer, or it may comprise a general purpose computer selectively activated or reconfigured by a computer program stored in the computer. Said computer program may be stored on a computer-readable medium, such as, but not limited to, any type of disk, including floppy disks, optical disks, CD-ROMs, magneto-optical disks, reader-only memories (ROMs), memories random access (RAMs), EPROMs, EEPROMs, magnetic or optical cards, application specific integrated circuits (ASICs), or any type of media suitable for storing instructions
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MEXICAN INSTITUTE OF INDUSTRIAL PROPERTY
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electronic, each being coupled to a computer system bus. The memory can include any of the above devices and / or other devices that can store information / data / programs. Furthermore, the computers mentioned in the description may include a single processor or may employ multiple processor designs for increased computing capacity.
The algorithms and representations described here are not intrinsically related to any particular computer or other device. Various general-purpose systems may be used with programs in accordance with the teachings of this invention, or it may be desirable to build more specialized apparatus to carry out the steps of the method. The structure for a variety of these systems will be apparent from the following description. Furthermore, the present invention is not described with reference to any particular programming language. It will be appreciated that a variety of programming languages can be used to implement the teachings of the present invention as described herein, and any reference to specific languages is provided to describe the enabling and best mode of the present invention.
Furthermore, the language used in the description has been selected primarily to be easy to read and for instructional purposes, and may not have been selected to delineate or circumscribe the object of the invention. Accordingly, the description of the present invention is intended to illustrate, but not limit, the scope of the invention.
Based on the understanding that real-time control of a heliostat assembly or FVC / FV module generates a waste of drive costs, embodiments of the present invention attempt to eliminate the fixed cost of calibrating and repositioning an individual surface. This simultaneously eliminates the
IMPI
MEXICAN INSTITUTE
FROM PROPERTY Γ> ^ INDUSTRIAL central engineering assumption that drives the development of large solar trackers and enables the present invention to follow a small surface in a cost effective manner. In addition to reducing the initial cost, a small heliostat or solar tracker can be pre-assembled, mass produced, and transported more easily. The smallest mechanisms can also be installed with simple hand tools and do not require installers to rent expensive installation equipment or cranes.
Referring now to the drawings, Figures 1-6 show a pre-assembled row configuration of mechanical position locking mechanisms capable of maintaining the position of individual surfaces with two degrees of freedom. These surfaces, for example solar surfaces, could be curved mirrors, flat mirrors, photovoltaic (PV) modules that may include concentrated photovoltaic (PVF) modules, or flat plate solar panels. For ease of reading, these surfaces will be referred to as PV surfaces.
Figure 1 is an illustration of an environment in which an embodiment of the invention can operate. Figure 1 represents a possible change in design, where the orientation of the individual surfaces (101) with respect to a rigid support beam (102) (also called "track") is adjustable. This support beam can be made of steel, aluminum, plastic, fiberglass, or a material that can provide enough rigidity to support a solar surface. This figure shows that each surface is attached to the beam by a mechanical position locking mechanism (103). In one embodiment, a separate robotic controller (104) moves along the rigid support beam and interfaces with the mechanical position lock mechanisms
Individual I to adjust the biaxial orientation of the different surfaces. The paradigm of
IMPIá
MEXICAN INSTITUTE OF EROMEDAB INDUSTRIAL robotic controller influences the fact that the solar position vector moves by itself
<img file="MX343473B_D0019.tif" />
degrees per hour and is therefore able to minimize its cost by adjusting a multiplicity of surfaces. Essentially better robotics - and not lower motor, controller, power supply, or wiring costs - will allow for more attractive system economy as the device can be continually upgraded to move faster between stations, making adjustments more quickly , and have a longer lifespan.
In an alternative embodiment, the sole duty of the rigid support beam is to transport the robotic controller between solar surfaces. In this embodiment, each mechanical position locking mechanism has an individual base. The rigid support beam therefore serves as a lightweight track that can be made of plastic, for example, polyvinyl chloride (PVC) pipes, fiberglass, aluminum, steel, or any material that can support weight. of the robotic controller. The track may be positioned adjacent to a multiplicity of mechanical position locking mechanisms. The track can also be flexible to allow installation tolerances for the individual bases that support each mechanical position lock mechanism. The use of the rigid support beam as a non-structural member is preferable for photovoltaic applications where a greater space is required between the solar surfaces.
Figure 2 is an illustration of a photo voltaic (PV) surface having a mechanical position locking mechanism according to one embodiment. Figure 2 shows that a surface (101) is attached to the mechanical position locking mechanism (103), and that this mechanism is attached to the beam (102). This figure also shows a multiplicity of calibration points (201) on the repositionable surface. The purpose
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MEXICAN INSTITUTE OF INDUSTRIAL PRORITY
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General of these points is to allow the robotic controller (104) to perceive the orientation of the surface by determining the distance from its sensor or its calibration sensors (202) to a multiplicity of calibration points. The robotic controller can then use a built-in computer to adjust the discovered positions of these points to a geometric plane. These calibration points can be virtual nodes generated by the robotic controller or physical markers on the surface. It should also be noted that the primary purpose of these points is their visualization and there is no need for physical calibration points. In one embodiment, the robotic controller calibration system consists of a structured light emitting device and a positioned camera capable of detecting structured light. A built-in image processing unit uses triangulation of detected features to determine depth from the camera. A depth map is then created that overturns and adjusts the detected features to a geometric plane. The kinematics of the plane mentioned above determine the relative orientation.
Fig. 3 is a more detailed illustration of the mechanical position lock mechanism according to one embodiment. Figure 3 is a close-up view of the mechanical position locking mechanism. This mechanism can be made up of a gear train that controls the orientation of a surface with two degrees of freedom. It contains an internal link structure (301), an external tubular link structure (302) that wraps around the internal link, and a right angle gearbox (3O3A, 303B) mounted on a shaft (304) attached to the internal tubular link structure. In the most basic functional form of the system, a single gear is attached to the structure of
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MEXICAN INSTITUTE OF INDUSTRIAL PROPERTY
<img file="MX343473B_D0021.tif" />
internal link (305). Rotation of this gear directly adjusts the azimuth orientation of the surface (101).
An additional gear (306) is attached to the outer tubular link. Rotation of this gear adjusts the position of the input gear (303A) of the right angle gear box. The shaft (304) of the output gear (3O3B) in the right angle gear box is attached to the internal link structure. The gear attached to the internal link structure (305) can therefore control the azimuth orientation of the surface, and the gear attached to the external link structure (306) can control the elevation - or tilt - of the surface repositionable. The right angle gear box (303A, 303B) can use a bevel, angle, front dent, magnetic, or worm gear system. Similarly, the gears attached to the inner and outer links (305, 306) could be part of a system of bevel, bevel, angled, worm gear, front teeth, harmonic, magnetic or helical gears or a gear train . These gears can serve as an interface to the robotic controller, but are not necessary from a functionality point of view. As an example, the robotic controller could hook internal and external links (301, 302) and rotate them directly.
The high-level purpose of the gear train system is to transform the rotation of two input gears - with fixed axes of rotation - into biaxial surface control. This mechanism greatly reduces the complexity of the robotic controller as both input links remain in the same position during adjustment. The limitation that both input links have to have a fixed axis of rotation can be removed to reduce the complexity of the mechanical position lock mechanism. In
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MEXICAN INSTITUTE OF INDUSTRIAL PROPERTY
<img file="MX343473B_D0022.tif" />
In these systems, the robotic controller would need to compensate for input links / joints that do not remain in the same position during adjustment.
Bringing the distributed drive paradigm of the present invention to an extreme, the mechanical position lock mechanism could consist of a lockable or flexible joint that is attached to the repositionable surface. In this class of solutions, the robot would need to be able to unlock this joint, adjust the surface using a built-in drive system that can directly contact the surface, and lock the joint before moving on to another locking mechanism. mechanical position.
Figure 4 is an exploded illustration of the mechanical position lock mechanism according to one embodiment. Figure 4 is an exploded view of Figure 3. The external tubular link structure (302) and the two gears attached thereto are shown as a separate component. This view demonstrates that the input gear in the right angle gear box (303A) is attached to the outer link structure (302) and therefore rotates around the inner link (301). The right angle gearbox output gear (303B) is free to rotate around a shaft (304) attached to the internal link structure. Certain gear configurations in the gear train of the mechanical position lock mechanism would allow the system to be driven backwards by wind or uneven surface loading. This can be avoided by introducing high levels of friction into the system or by selecting a gear system - such as worm gear sets or harmonic gears - that cannot be driven backwards.
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MEXICAN INSTITUTE <sup>lN</sup> DEΙΛ EKOHEUA?
INDUSTRIAL
Fig. 5 is an illustration of the mechanical position lock system attached to a support beam according to one embodiment. Figure 5 shows that the mechanical position locking mechanism is attached to the support beam (102). It also shows how one gear (305) can be attached to the internal link structure (102), and how another gear (306) can be attached to the external link structure (302). In one embodiment, the internal link structure may have a flange (501) at its base. This flange would prevent wind or other forces from starting the mechanical position locking mechanism of the support beam. The internal link structure can also be interconnected with a bearing (502) attached to the support beam (102) to reduce friction.
Figure 6 is an illustration of a floor mounted support beam system according to one embodiment. Figure 6 shows how beam 102 can be safely installed in a floor mounted system. In one embodiment, posts or rods (601) can be nailed to the ground and attached to the beam with mounting clamps (602) that may or may not be adjustable. Figure 6 shows these mounting clamps as a standard U-bolt. These posts could also be inserted into concrete or could be subject to ballasts that prevent the wind from overturning the system. In one embodiment, the ballast could be secured to the beam directly using mounting clamps or a standard bolt pattern. Powered posts have the greatest degree of flexibility as they can be installed at different depths to account for local changes in field height, although in some embodiments the beam 102 does not need to be leveled. The system may be configured to have a multiplicity of support beams connected to each other to form an extended row for the robotic controller.
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IMPI
INSTITUTO MEX1CAN Dí LA PROPIEDAD INDUSTRIAL
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Figures 7-9 show other possible configurations for the mechanical position lock mechanism. This configuration introduces additional gears to the gear train and a brake mechanism that maintains the position of the system at times when the robotic controller is not adjusting the surface. A brake mechanism is particularly useful for gear train systems that have no intrinsic properties against return actuation.
FIG. 7 is an illustration of a secondary gear train system that interfaces with a mechanical deposition lock mechanism in accordance with one embodiment. Figure 7 shows an embodiment of a secondary gear train system that interfaces with the input gears (305, 306) of the mechanical position lock mechanism (103) shown in Figures 1-6. A purpose of the additional gear system is to allow more precise control of an individual surface (101), and / or to provide a direct lock of the gear train. In one embodiment, the robotic controller interfaces with the end stage component (s) in the gear train system to minimize the amount of rotational force required to reposition a surface. In the depicted gear train configuration, a fixed link (704) supports the secondary gear train system. This gear train consists of an upper end stage gear (701) that interfaces with the gear attached to the outer link (306), and a lower end stage gear (702) that interfaces with the gear attached to the inner link ( 305). These end stage gears can also be interconnected with a brake system. This brake system is designed to lock the position of the gears, for example, to prevent any significant or substantial movement of the gears and, therefore, to prevent any
ΙΜΡΙ
MEXICAN INSTITUTE OF INDUSTRIAL PROPERTY
<img file="MX343473B_D0025.tif" />
Substantial movement of the surface due to slippage of the gears, for example, when a robotic controller is not adjusting an individual mechanical position lock mechanism. Such a brake mechanism incorporates a gear that cannot be driven backwards - such as a helical drive - towards any stage of the gear train. This type of gear can passively lock the position of an individual surface without the addition of an external brake.
Other brake mechanisms can be operated by active engagement and disengagement with any gear in the gear train system or directly with internal and external links. In the illustrated model, two springs force the upper and lower end stage gears (701, 702) into a gear lock mechanism (703) to prevent the gear train from being driven rearward. In other configurations, the upper and lower end stage gears may have a fixed vertical position and the gear locking mechanism could be spring loaded. The gear lock mechanism can use friction pads and / or positive engagement (705) to prevent the end stage gears from rotating. To adjust the rotation of the end stage gears and reposition the surface, the robotic controller would first need to deactivate the brake mechanism.
The robotic controller does not need to rotate both end stage gears to control the surface on two axes. For example, if the upper end stage gear (701) in this configuration is locked, and the lower end stage gear (702) is rotated, then the azimuth orientation and surface tilt will be adjusted simultaneously. A robotic controller that takes advantage of this effect would need to be capable
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MEXICAN INSTITUTE
FROM THE INDUSTRIAL rkCPIEOI disengage the upper end stage gear from your brake and rotate the bottom end stage gear to change only the azimuth orientation of the surface.
Figure 8 is an illustration of another embodiment of a secondary gear train system that interfaces with a mechanical position lock mechanism. The figure shows a simpler secondary gear train system that takes advantage of this effect. A fixed link (704) can support this secondary gear train system. In the illustrated embodiment, the gear lock mechanism (703) works only in conjunction with the lower end stage gear (702). The upper end stage gear (701) shown in Figure 7 is replaced with an actuated brake mechanism (801).
One end of this powered wand is equipped with a brake pad (802) that can actively engage with the external link structure (302) or gear (306) attached to the external link structure. The brake pad can use friction and / or positive engagement to prevent the engaged system from rotating. The other end of this powered wand (803) may contain metallic or magnetic material to allow for magnetic or electromagnetic adjustment. By actuating this system, the robotic controller can effectively lock and unlock the external link structure. This brake actuator can be spring loaded to reduce the complexity of the robotic controller.
Figure 9 is an illustration of another embodiment of a secondary gear train system utilizing an actuated brake mechanism. The secondary gear train system utilizing an actuated brake mechanism (801) simultaneously locks the position of the gears attached to the internal and external link structures (305, 306). Similar to the actuated brake illustrated in Figure 8, this brake mechanism
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MEXICAN INSTITUTE OF INDUSTRIAL PROPERTY
<img file="MX343473B_D0028.tif" />
It can be spring loaded. The brake pad (802) could also be actuated by an endless thyme system (901). In order to engage and disengage this brake mechanism, the robotic controller must be capable of rotating control of the input shaft (902) of the actuator. This input shaft can contain metallic or magnetic material to allow a magnetic or electromagnetic adjustment.
A robotic controller interfaces with a mechanical position lock mechanism (shown in Figures 1-9) to adjust the orientation of a repositionable surface. There are many such surfaces that can be used to achieve this goal. One class of solutions includes, but is not limited to, using mechanical engagement to adjust the position of the input gears and / or the brake mechanism. This can be accomplished using friction and / or positive engagement. Another class of solutions includes, but is not limited to, using magnetic and / or electromagnetic latching to adjust the position of the input gears and / or the brake mechanism. This class of solutions has the potential to greatly increase the life of the robotic controller by allowing adjustments to be made without physical contact. This latching style also allows the robotic controller and mechanical position lock mechanism to be sealed away from each other and from the installation environment. Accurate station alignment is also less important with electromagnetic systems, since magnetic coupling may justify misalignment.
Fig. 10 is an illustration of an electromagnetic interface according to one embodiment. Figure 10 shows a representation of a magnetic or electromagnetic interface. For ease of reading, the term "electromagnetic" here includes both electromagnetic and magnetic interfaces and effects. In this
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HÍWCMNO INSTITUTE ot la norwDAD (HOUmiAL
<img file="MX343473B_D0029.tif" />
Model, the upper end stage gear (701) and the lower end stage gear (702) are equipped with a multiplicity of metal or magnetic discs (1001).
These discs interact with a magnetic or electromagnetic system in the robotic controller (not shown). The robotic controller's magnetic or electromagnetic system can provide normal force on the upper and lower end stage gears.
This effect is desirable as it can be used to disengage an end stage gear from its brake mechanism before; and throughout the adjustment process. This can be accomplished by spring-acting the end stage gears within a gear locking mechanism (702) which, by default, prevents them from rotating. When the robotic controller's electromagnetic or magnetic system is activated, it provides a normal force that disengages the upper and lower end stage gears from the gear locking mechanism. This, in turn, allows the robotic controller to directly control the position of each end stage gear.
From a functionality point of view, the final gear in the gear train system can behave as if it were a half of an axial flow motor. The robotic controller can contain the other half of the conceptual axial flow motor and can distribute this complexity - along with the complexity of calibration, wiring, and control of an individual surface - among many position locking mechanisms. The scope of the present invention, however, is not intended to be limited to input repositioning through rotary motion. While these systems are conceptually easy to understand, the present invention could use a variety of input movements, including linear or nonlinear mechanisms, to drive the repositionable surface with two degrees of freedom.
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MEXICAN INSTITUTE OF INDUSTRIAL PROPERTY
<img file="MX343473B_D0030.tif" />
Figures 11 and 12 show various methods of supplying power to the robotic controller. The robotic controller may require power to operate electronic components and / or a built-in drive system capable of transporting the controller between adjusting stations. The robotic controller may also require electrical power to match individual position locking mechanisms.
Figure 11 shows a system that supplies power to the robotic controller through a contact-based charging system in accordance with one embodiment. The purpose of this system is to charge an energy storage system built into the robotic controller. The charging system may be comprised of a support arm (1101) that supports a positive (1102) and negative (1103) contact patch. The robotic controller can be connected to these contact patches with brushes and / or mechanical wheels. This loading system could be placed at any point along the beam. In the preferred embodiment, it is placed at the end of a long row comprised of a multiplicity of support beams (102) and position lock mechanisms (103). The robotic controller can use the charging system to recharge its energy storage system at any time. If you have a built-in energy storage system with a small capacity, you can recharge it during or at the end of each adjustment cycle for each row. In one embodiment, it will have sufficient energy storage capacity for a full day of adjustment and to recharge at night. The charger can use direct contact or electromagnetic induction to transfer power to the robotic controller. The source of the charging energy can be a battery that charges itself with solar energy.
Fig. 12 is an illustration of a system supplying power to the robotic controller via an electrified rail according to one embodiment. Fig. 12
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INSTITUTO MEXICANO DE LA FHOMEOAD INDUSTRIAL shows a system that can provide continuous power to the robotic controller through an electrified rail (1201). This system could be used to recharge the robotic controller's built-in energy storage system or to supply power to the robotic controller directly. The electrified rail can consist of a positive (1202) and negative (1203) contact bar that the robotic controller can hook with brushes and / or wheels. The joints (1205) between the support beams would require an electrical track connector | (1204) to create a continuous row of electrified track for the robotic controller. The functional duty of providing continuous power could also be accomplished by connecting a cable from a power source to the robotic controller. In a tethered system, the robotic controller would require a mechanism - such as a cable conveyor - to handle excess cable.
Figures 13-15 show an embodiment of the robotic controller that calibrates and / or adjusts each mechanical position lock mechanism individually. The purpose of the robotic controller is to add as many complex control elements as necessary to properly position an independent surface on a single, field-replaceable component. At its most basic functional level, the robotic controller must be able to move between mechanical position locking mechanisms, properly align with respect to an adjusting station, disengage a brake mechanism (if necessary), manipulate the mechanical position locking mechanism, and re-engage the brake mechanism (if necessary). Additional calibration sensors can be added to the robotic controller to allow the robot to determine how the repositionable solar surface should be oriented for different solar applications. Figures 13-15 show how a robotic controller can adjust and calibrate a
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mexican institute
PROPERTY ~ ~ _ Mechanical position lock mechanism that uses a trerTcle gear system (see figure 8) to transmit rotary input motion at "two degrees of surface freedom.
Fig. 13 is an illustration of a robotic controller according to one embodiment. Figure 13 illustrates an overview of the systems that can be incorporated into the robotic controller (104) to achieve the basic functional goals mentioned above. These systems may include, but are not limited to; an actuation system (1301) for transporting the group of systems between mechanical position locking mechanisms, an electrical power interface (1302) that can receive electrical power from an electrified rail (1201), anchored cable, or static charging system , an energy storage system (1303) (see figure 14) capable of receiving energy from the electrical energy interface and supplying energy to the embedded systems, a central or distributed processing system (1304) (see figure 14) capable of sending and / or receiving commands from various components, a data capture system (1305) (see figure 14) capable of storing information from built-in sensors, a magnetic, electromagnetic or mechanical adjustment interface (1306) (see figure 14) capable of manipulating the mechanical position locking mechanism, a magnetic adjustment interface, electromagnetic or mechanical (1307) capable of engaging / disengaging a brake system, an internal wiring system for connecting system components, a chassis (1308) for accommodating system components, and a calibration system (1309) capable of characterizing a surface with two degrees of freedom. This calibration system is comprised of more components that may include, but are not limited to; a camera, an individual processing unit, a light detection and emission system
IMPIAg
MEXICAN INSTITUTE
BE THE INDUSTRIAL PROPERTY ^ * 7 * structured, a laser distance sensor, and a position location system capable of determining the global or relative location of the robotic controller.
In an alternative embodiment, multiple robotic controllers can be included on a single beam. This can increase the frequency of solar surface adjustments and also provide a failsafe system in case one or more robotic controllers stop working. Robotic controllers may include computers (or other processing devices, for example) that allow wireless or line communication with other robotic controllers / and / or with a central station (not shown). The central station (or multiple central stations) may include processors, memory, storage devices, wireless communication devices to provide a centralized system that can transmit and receive information to robotic controllers and provide software / firmware and firmware updates. databases. The centralized station (s) may be local to the robotic controllers, for example within several hundred meters. In addition, centralized stations can communicate with remote servers at other facilities that can maintain status and provide instructions to many remote solar energy harvesting systems.
Fig. 14 is a more detailed illustration of a robotic controller without its top chassis, in accordance with one embodiment. Figure 14 shows the robotic controller without its top chassis. The illustrated permutation uses two electromagnetic interfaces to adjust the mechanical position lock mechanism. An electromagnetic interface (1307) is used to adjust the position of an actuated brake mechanism (801). If the actuated brake mechanism is spring-loaded and contains
IMPI®
MEXICAN INSTITUTE
OF THE PROPERTY
INDUSTRIAL TL-— metallic or magnetic material, the robotic controller will be able to engage and disengage the brake by activating and deactivating a simple electromagnet. If the actuated brake system uses an atomizing mechanism (901) for actuation, the electromagnetic interface of the robotic controller provides rotary motion to the input shaft of the actuator (902). This can be accomplished by transforming the interface into a conceptual axial flow motor, where one end of the atomizing actuated brake mechanism contains metallic or magnetic material and the interface (1307) of the robotic controller contains electromagnets and electronic control systems.
Another electromagnetic interface (1306) is used to adjust the rotation of the end stage gear of the mechanical position lock mechanism. This interface may be composed of static or mobile electromagnets that interact with the metal or magnetic discs (1001) attached to the lower end stage gear (702) of the mechanical position lock mechanism. This interface can behave as if it were an induction or axial flow motor where complex components are contained in the robotic controller, and a minimum number of passive components are incorporated into the mechanical position lock mechanism.
A power source connected to the electrified rail (not shown) can transfer power to the robotic controller. The robotic controller receives this electrical power through an electrical power interface (1302) that may include brushes (1401) or contact wheels. The robotic controller can store this electrical energy using its built-in energy storage system (1303).
A drive system 1301 incorporated in the robotic controller can transport the group of systems between position locking mechanisms. This can be accomplished
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IN5TTTUTO MWKAÍMO
Ot ΙΛ «tCWBftW INOUSTWAl
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with a drive motor and drive wheels (1402). This purpose can also be accomplished through the use of an external drive mechanism, such as a belt, chain, or cable drive system.
Fig. 15 is a more detailed illustration of an electromagnetic interface system of a robotic controller in accordance with one embodiment. Figure 15 shows a close-up view of the electromagnetic interface systems. One system (1307) is used to actuate the brake mechanism and another mobile electromagnetic system (1306) is used to adjust the rotation of the lower end stage gear of the position lock mechanism. The interface that controls the actuated brake mechanism can include a single electromagnet that interacts with a spring actuated brake mechanism through a magnetic latch.
In this permutation, the mobile electromagnetic system consists of four electromagnets (1501) on a rotating platform (1502). The platform is connected to a drive mechanism (1503) that can provide enough torque to rotate the system. All four electromagnets are activated simultaneously and interact with the four metal or magnetic discs (1001) in the bottom end stage gear (702) of the mechanical position lock mechanism. When the drive system rotates the mobile electromagnetic system (1306), it, in turn, rotates the lower end stage gear which is now electromechanically coupled to the four electromagnets (1501). This allows the robotic controller's mobile electromagnetic system to adjust the position of the end stage lower gear in the mechanical position lock mechanism.
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MEXICAN INSTITUTE OE INDUSTRIAL PROPERTY
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Figure 16 is an illustration of a robotic controller that calibrates and / or adjusts each position lock mechanism using a mechanical interface in accordance with one embodiment. This mechanical adjustment interface physically engages the end stage gears of the mechanical position lock mechanism. This can be accomplished with positive latching and / or friction. The illustrated system uses two adjustment gears (1601) that mate with the end stage gears of the mechanical position lock mechanism. Built-in motors (1602) are attached to these adjustment gears (1601) and can rotate them precisely and individually. The built-in motors can, therefore, control the position of the solar surface when the adjustment gears (1601) are coupled with the final stage gears of the mechanical position locking mechanism.
Figure 17 is an illustration of a robotic controller that calibrates and / or adjusts each locking mechanism (position using two electromagnetic interfaces according to one embodiment. Figure 17 demonstrates an embodiment of the robotic controller that calibrates and / or adjusts each mechanism. Mechanical position lock using two static electromagnetic interfaces (1701). Each interface consists of a multiplicity of electromagnetic coils (1702) that can be activated individually. These coils interconnect with the metal or magnetic discs (1001) embedded in the end stage gears (701, 702) of the mechanical position lock mechanism. When properly activated, this system can operate as if it were an axial flow or induction motor. These electromagnetic coils can be powered or powered by the energy storage system and / or the electrical energy interface incorporated in the robotic controller.
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M UMCWO INSTITUTE
DE lA P »Or« <MC 'C ~ J% j
Fig. 18 is an illustration of a robotic controller according to one embodiment. Figure 18 combines the systems described in Figures 13-15 and Figure 8 to better demonstrate how a robotic controller can be used to calibrate and / or adjust a multiplicity of mechanical position locking mechanisms. The process can begin with the activation of the central processing unit of the robotic controller. This computational system determines at a high level how the robotic controller should interact with the mechanical position lock mechanism system. It is also capable of sending low-level commands to embedded components to carry out the high-level functions mentioned above. In one embodiment, one step in the computational process is obtaining information from the history of past operations and / or from the built-in calibration sensors (1309). This helps the robotic controller determine its current position on the support beam. The next step is to determine how the robot should be transported to the next adjusting station. Once the calculation is done, the robotic controller can activate its drive system which may include a single drive motor attached to a drive wheel, for example - until it reaches an adjustment station. To identify a station, the robotic controller can use any method from a variety of methods to identify the appropriate position. Examples include a camera system capable of detecting the characteristics of the mechanical position locking mechanism. Your drive system can also use prior knowledge of the system to move the robotic controller a pre-calculated distance. The robotic controller can also use a metallic or magnetic material detection system capable of detecting a metal part or a magnetic part placed in each position locking mechanism
IMPI Mexican Institute of INDUSTRIAL PROPERTY
<img file="MX343473B_D0034.tif" />
mechanic. Once in a position lock mechanism, the core processor can send commands back to the drive system to achieve precise alignment with the station.
Before beginning the adjustment process, the robotic controller can obtain additional information from the history of past operations and / or the calibration sensors to better determine the current orientation of the repositionable surface and / or to calculate the necessary amount of adjustment. Once this step is complete, the robotic controller can activate its electromagnetic interface (1307) that controls the position of the actuated brake mechanism (801). This effectively unlocks the position of the gear (306) attached to the external link structure.
The electromagnets (1501) in the mobile electromagnetic system (1306) can now be activated. This activation provides a normal force on the lower end stage gear (702) of the mechanical position lock mechanism which releases it from the gear lock mechanism (703). Once disengaged, the system is unlocked and can be relocated by activating the drive mechanism (1503) that controls the rotary position of the mobile electromagnetic system. Adjusting the rotation of the lower end stage gear with the brake released adjusts only the azimuth orientation of the surface. To change the slope of the surface, the robotic controller can re-engage the brake mechanism by disabling its electromagnetic brake interface (1307). Adjusting the bottom end stage gear with the brake engaged will adjust both tilt and azimuth orientation.
After the repositioning process is complete, the central processing unit can record adjustment data for repositioning sessions
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IMPI
JNSTJT'WTO LEXICA 1 * 0 future. You can also obtain data from your calibration sensors to verify that the surface has been correctly repositioned. This verification process can use any method from a variety of methods. Examples include the use of a built-in light emitting mechanism that projects structured light onto the underside of the solar surface and a positioned camera that can detect structured light patterns on the solar surface. The built-in processing unit of the robotic controller can then process this information to dump and embed a multiplicity of detected points on a geometric plane. To verify that the surface is correctly positioned, the robotic controller software checks that the desired orientation of the surface matches the measured orientation.
Fig. 19 is an illustration of a robotic controller using a mechanical adjustment interface according to one embodiment. Figure 19 combines the systems described in Figure 16 and Figure 3 to better demonstrate how a robotic controller can be used to calibrate and / or adjust a multiplicity of position locking mechanisms using a mechanical adjustment interface. The robotic controller process is very similar to the process illustrated in Figure 18. However, instead of activating an electromagnetic interface to adjust the position of the position lock mechanism, this configuration uses a direct mechanical latch.
After the robotic controller has been properly aligned with an adjustment station and has calculated the adjustment necessary to reposition a surface, it can physically engage its adjustment gears (1601) with the input gears (305, 306) of the locking mechanism mechanical position. The hitching process can be as simple as entering precisely into an adjusting station and allowing
IMPI
ΙΗ € ΤίΤύ ^ Ο MaMCANC 'or. i * # acAía »x? «HDLíSTWü.
<img file="MX343473B_D0036.tif" />
gear groups engage. This simple hitching process demonstrates one of the main advantages of selecting a gear train system with input shafts that remain in the same position at all points on the path. Once engaged, the robotic controller can activate its built-in motors (1602) to rotate the input gears of the mechanical position lock mechanism.
Fig. 20 is an illustration of a robotic controller using two electromagnetic tuning interfaces in accordance with one embodiment. Figure 20 combines the systems described in Figure 17 and Figure 7 to better demonstrate how a robotic controller can be used to calibrate and / or adjust a multiplicity of mechanical position lock mechanisms using two electromagnetic adjustment interfaces (1701). The robotic controller process is very similar to the process illustrated in Figure 18. However, instead of using an electromagnetic system to control an actuated brake mechanism, this configuration uses two static electromagnetic systems that can disengage the upper end stage gears. and bottom (701, 702) of a gear locking mechanism (703). These static electromagnetic systems are also capable of adjusting the rotation of the upper and lower end stage gears to effectively reposition the mechanical position lock mechanism.
After the robotic controller has properly aligned itself with an adjustment station, and has calculated the adjustment necessary to reposition the surface, it can activate both static electromagnetic interfaces. This activation induces a normal force on both the upper (701) and lower (702) final stage gears, which releases them from the gear locking mechanism (703). Once the gear lock has been disengaged, the coils (1702) contained in each interface
IMPI
MEXICAN INSTITUTE OF INDUSTRIAL PROPERTY
<img file="MX343473B_D0037.tif" />
Static electromagnetic can be individually activated to rotate the upper and lower end stage gears. After the end stage gears have been properly repositioned, the robotic controller can disable its static electromagnetic systems. This eliminates normal force on the gears and allows the spring system to return them to their locked position.
The robotic controller tuning process is much simpler in gear train systems that have inherent anti-return drive properties. These systems do not require the robotic controller to manipulate a brake mechanism during the adjustment process.
While particular embodiments and applications have been illustrated and described in this text, it should be understood that the invention is not limited to the precise construction and components described herein, and that various modifications, changes, and variations may be made in arrangement, operation, and the details of the methods and apparatus of the present invention, without departing from the spirit and scope thereof, according to the claims.
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MEXICAAkC 'INSTITUTE OF PROPERTY
INDUSTRIAL
<img file="MX343473B_D0038.tif" />
Contents51
58 sheets
Sheet 1 Sheet 2 Sheet 3 Sheet 4 Sheet 5 Sheet 6 Sheet 7 Sheet 8 Sheet 9 Sheet 10 Sheet 11 Sheet 12 Sheet 13 Sheet 14 Sheet 15 Sheet 16 Sheet 17 Sheet 18 Sheet 19 Sheet 20 Sheet 21 Sheet 22 Sheet 23 Sheet 24 Sheet 25 Sheet 26 Sheet 27 Sheet 28 Sheet 29 Sheet 30 Sheet 31 Sheet 32 Sheet 33 Sheet 34 Sheet 35 Sheet 36 Sheet 37 Sheet 38 Sheet 39 Sheet 40 Sheet 41 Sheet 42 Sheet 43 Sheet 44 Sheet 45 Sheet 46 Sheet 47 Sheet 48 Sheet 49 Sheet 50 Sheet 51 Sheet 52 Sheet 53 Sheet 54 Sheet 55 Sheet 56 Sheet 57 Sheet 58
56 members in 9 offices
Priority claims19
| Document | Office | Kind | Date |
|---|---|---|---|
| 34969710 | United States of America | P | |
| 34969710 | United States of America | P | |
| 61349697 | United States of America | – | |
| 36472910 | United States of America | P | |
| 36472910 | United States of America | P | |
| 61364729 | United States of America | – | |
| 41968510 | United States of America | P | |
| 41968510 | United States of America | P | |
| 61419685 | United States of America | – | |
| 2011038412 | United States of America | W | |
| 2011038412 | United States of America | W | |
| 61349697 | – | – | – |
| 61364729 | – | – | – |
| 61419685 | – | – | – |
| PCTUS2011038412 | – | – | – |
| US20100349697P | – | – | – |
| US20100364729P | – | – | – |
| US20100419685P | – | – | – |
| WO2011US38412 | – | – | – |
Members56
| Document | Office | Kind | |
|---|---|---|---|
| US2011240007A1 | United States of America | A1 | |
| CA2800095A1 | Canada | A1 | |
| WO2011150373A1 | World Intellectual Property Organization (WIPO) | A1 | |
| CA2804887A1 | Canada | A1 | |
| US2012012101A1 | United States of America | A1 | |
| WO2012009470A1 | World Intellectual Property Organization (WIPO) | A1 | |
| US2012123720A1 | United States of America | A1 | |
| CA2819243A1 | Canada | A1 | |
| WO2012075437A1 | World Intellectual Property Organization (WIPO) | A1 | |
| WO2012009470A8 | World Intellectual Property Organization (WIPO) | A8 | |
| AU2011258022A1 | Australia | A1 | |
| AU2011279154A1 | Australia | A1 | |
| EP2577183A1 | European Patent Office (EPO) | A1 | |
| CN103097829A | China | A | |
| US8442790B2 | United States of America | B2 | |
| CN103119380A | China | A | |
| EP2593726A1 | European Patent Office (EPO) | A1 | |
| MX2013000499A | Mexico | A | |
| AU2011336375A1 | Australia | A1 | |
| WO2012075437A8 | World Intellectual Property Organization (WIPO) | A8 | |
| JP2013533450A | Japan | A | |
| JP2013535641A | Japan | A | |
| US2013238271A1 | United States of America | A1 | |
| CN103328907A | China | A | |
| EP2646759A1 | European Patent Office (EPO) | A1 | |
| JP2013544346A | Japan | A | |
| US8881720B2 | United States of America | B2 | |
| AU2011258022B2 | Australia | B2 | |
| US2015007870A1 | United States of America | A1 | |
| EP2646759A4 | European Patent Office (EPO) | A4 | |
| AU2015200879A1 | Australia | A1 | |
| US2015073594A1 | United States of America | A1 | |
| AU2011279154B2 | Australia | B2 | |
| CN103119380B | China | B | |
| CN103097829B | China | B | |
| CN103328907B | China | B | |
| JP5846213B2 | Japan | B2 | |
| MX336475B | Mexico | B | |
| JP5854337B2 | Japan | B2 | |
| JP2016053471A | Japan | A | |
| BR112013000735A2 | Brazil | A2 | |
| BR112013013406A2 | Brazil | A2 | |
| JP5995845B2 | Japan | B2 | |
| MX343473BThis record | Mexico | B | |
| US9494341B2 | United States of America | B2 | |
| AU2015200879B2 | Australia | B2 | |
| US9506783B2 | United States of America | B2 | |
| BR112012029715A2 | Brazil | A2 | |
| US2017067668A1 | United States of America | A1 | |
| AU2011336375B2 | Australia | B2 | |
| EP2577183A4 | European Patent Office (EPO) | A4 | |
| EP2593726A4 | European Patent Office (EPO) | A4 | |
| JP6232032B2 | Japan | B2 | |
| EP2646759B1 | European Patent Office (EPO) | B1 | |
| EP2577183B1 | European Patent Office (EPO) | B1 | |
| US10520223B2 | United States of America | B2 |
1 legal event, as the office reported them to INPADOC
Events
| Event | Code | |
|---|---|---|
| Grant or registrationFG | FG |
Numbers
- Publication
- 343473
- Publication, DOCDB
- 343473
- Publication, EPODOC
- MX343473
- Application
- 2012013755
- Application, DOCDB
- 2012013755
- Application, EPODOC
- MX20120013755
Titles
- Spanish
- SISTEMA Y METODO DE REPOSICIONAMIENTO DE HELIOSTATOS.
Classification
- CPC, 9
- F24S50/20
- F24S50/00
- Y02E10/47
- F24S2023/876
- F24S23/77
- F24S30/452
- F24S2050/25
- F24S2030/134
- Y02E10/50
- IPC, 5
- F24J2 54
- F24J2 38
- F24S23 70
- F24S23 77
- F24S50 20