Untitled record

full description

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The invention currently to be protected relates to the production of solar energy and relates more specifically to a method and device for constructing mechanically linked uniaxial solar tracking systems with different geometries of the tracking device used for motion tracking.

5 diurnal sun.

Solar tracking systems used in the production of renewable energy are devices that track the movement of the sun relative to the Earth to maximize solar energy production. Solar trackers move to keep the solar modules perpendicular to the sun's rays on one or two axes. The claimed invention applies to photovoltaic units

<p>10 PV modules) for electrical power generation, but can be applied to any solar energy collection device, such as solar thermal devices or material exposure testers. Solar trackers have been successfully deployed in the field, however, Previous technical designs did not adequately address the initial installation costs, flexibility to adapt to site conditions, and reliability over a relatively long lifespan (more than 20 years) for the system.</p>

<p>15th When choosing a solar tracker system, all of the following variables must be considered:</p>

<p>• cost of photovoltaic modules,</p>

<p>• The cost of the land, the geometry of the site and availability,</p>

<p>• the cost of the labor that does the installation,</p>

<p>• cost of materials,</p>

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<p>• meteorological data,</p>

<p>• operating and maintenance costs,</p>

<p>• The increase in overall efficiency provided by the tracker.</p>

The solutions offered in this field currently are not completely optimal to address all cost issues

<p>5 relevance. The power gain provided by the tracking devices depends on the tracking geometry of the system and the location of the installation. Dual axis D/A (dual axis) keeps the tracker keeps perpendicular to the sun on both 'axis' and provides the largest power output gain anywhere. Single axis S/A is installed .) in one axis and typically the daily movement of the sun is tracked in the other axis</p>

<p>10 Single axis tracker geometries, azimuth, and horizontal geometries. The tilt-height S/A tracker tilts according to the latitude of the place and tracks the daily movement of the Sun around the tilt axis. The S/A azimuth tracker tilts at perfect angles and tracks the daily movement of the Sun by rotation around the vertical axis. The S/A horizontal tracker is configured to be parallel to the ground and rotate about the north/south horizontal axis.</p>

<p>15th To track the daily movement of the sun. The energy gained from each of these geometries varies</p>

The means of tracking and depends on the latitude of the place of installation and the weather conditions in the installation site. Photovoltaic modules (PV) solar tracking systems are commercially available in several geometries such as tilted single axis, horizontal single axis, fixed tilt single azimuth, and dual axis geometries.

<p>20 All means of tracking must be constructed to be strong enough to resist wind forces in any tracking position or be "stowed" to reduce the effect of strong wind forces. Units also require periodic cleaning, which is carried out in many locations primarily with rain that "washes" the units. Snow can affect tracking operations, due to snow formation or snow weight on units, or snow drift conditions that interfere with tracking motion and energy collection</p>

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solar energy. In addition, building materials, electronics, drive elements, and actuators must be able to operate under temperature and climate constraints.

In many applications, the single axis horizontal tracker is the most cost-saving form of engineering. The S/A structure can be supported on many points along the rotor axis, and is therefore less complex and requires less building materials to construct than other S/A devices.

Other tracking. The key to successful design of a PV module tracker is to provide maximum

Overall economic benefits, such as initial device cost, installation cost, land use, cost and efficiency of solar modules, operating and maintenance costs as well as the earning efficiencies provided by tracking engineering. When the cost of steel and other composition materials rises, the means of tracking

<p>10 Horizontal is increasingly desirable. This method reduces structural material requirements by keeping the units in a low profile relative to the foundation and to a minimum bearing torque relative to the rotor shaft without the need for special couplings to rotate the system around its center of gravity.</p>

In the tracking devices used in the prior art, each row of units is typically connected to each other by a linear motion link in an attempt to reduce the number of drives required. Tracking devices

<p>15th The horizontal and inclined single-axis mechanical connections used in the previous art require structurally strong mechanical connections capable of resisting high-strength loads in view of the weight of the solar module and the large forces caused by the wind.</p>

The disadvantage of this system used in the previous art is that all wind forces are concentrated on a single point, through mechanical linkage. The invention model currently required to be protected 20 specifically eliminates the need for a strong mechanical bond capable of withstanding high loading forces.

caused by wind. The design of the current models eliminates the transfer of these wind forces to the link, and repels the external wind forces locally, within each row or arrangement of the trackers so that the wind force is not transmitted to the link. It also requires prior art, with a broad independent foundation, or foundations, upon which a single actuator mechanism drives many rows of linear motion actuator units.

<p>25 One such device is the horizontal, single-axis tracking system described in the US Patent. </p>

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No. 6058930, for Shingleton. In this system, the horizontal rows of units are joined together by a linear motion coupling and operated by a single linear actuator that is installed on an independent wide foundation. In addition to the horizontal axis used in the foregoing art, auto-linked tracking devices generally require flat or graded terrain for proper operation. . Several poles must be installed on the

5 High-altitude and high-tolerance locations within 100+ columns, across two dimensions in a wide area, for mechanical connections between rows to stack for operation. This often requires a cumbersome and costly site setup process. Some of the connected horizontal trackers used in the prior art have models that allow installation on undulating terrain, but require expensive connections that must be manufactured on site and that must also withstand the large forces of wind. these connections

<p>10 Axles capable of withstanding high force are generally complex and expensive. Another drawback of the pre-art equipment is that it is designed in the form of large rectangles with connections that run into the center of the site in which the arrangement is located. If the installation location is not suitable in a rectangular shape, these systems are often used in less than ideal configurations where fewer units are controlled by the connection. This is another factor in increasing costs in prior art in many facilities. connect linear motion</p>

<p>15th In the previous art it required an increase in materials and an increase in the labor cost of the existing installation. The connection must be robust to directly resist the forces of the entire site for many rows of trackers with one large linear actuator that must be installed on foundations to accommodate a large separate linear actuator. A large, separate foundation is necessary to anchor the drive mechanism and must withstand very high wind forces for the entire tracking range. In addition, flexibility in site design is affected by linear motion linkage</p>

<p>20 Because the motor connection must generally work, so that it is concentrated in rows, and installed in a straight vertical line. The mechanical connection in the previous art must be made at right angles to the torsion tube and cannot deviate from the perpendicular direction, which does not allow the system to meet the irregular site boundaries.</p>

. Geometric shapes for trackers other than single-axis horizontal modes require more

<p>25 Floor space for installation. . In the field of tracers, all geometric forms of traceability except for tracers</p>

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Tracks with a horizontal axis should be spaced in two dimensions, east/west and north/south, so that they do not fall into each other's shadow. Horizontal axis trackers only need to be spaced in an east/west direction to lighten the shadows, and therefore require much less land to implement. . The circumference and shape of the land also decisively control the cost of installing most horizontal tracking systems with

5 single axis.

Other types of horizontal axis trackers are not connected to each other, and usually include multiple PV modules that are installed at obtuse angles in the torsion tube. These types are designed as independent rows that are driven by motors. These horizontal trackers are individually actuated by a gear drive/driver system and rotate (PV) mode around the center of gravity of the unit tracking system.

<p>10 Rotation of the gear around the center of gravity eliminates the torque that the loads apply to the gear actuator</p>

By the hanging weight of the solar modules. In order to rotate the system around the center of gravity, this type of horizontal track design requires more structural materials and more expensive connections for torsion tube and bearings than current horizontal track models. . Other disadvantages of these tracker designs include a larger predicted wind area that requires more

<p>15th Structural materials and large foundations to withstand larger torque loads and larger capacity actuators to overcome load torque from solar modules that are installed at a greater distance from the torsion tube due to the length of the thread. These designs also have more complex load bearing and support points to rotate the PV modules around the center of gravity of the tracking device, and a motor is used in every single track row, resulting in increased cost, maintenance burdens, and reduced reliability.</p>

<p>20 There is a third geometric shape which is the oblique track, with a single axis. The tracker is often called a slanted rotary, and it is tilted in height, and then rotates about this inclined axis. This type of tracking usually allows for increased gain via a horizontal tracking system, but at an additional cost that should be carefully analyzed before publishing. These costs include requirements for more land due to the necessary spacing for shading in both east/west and north/south directions and a more complex structure.</p>

<p>25 Requires more structural materials due to the increase in the expected height of the foundation. These systems are also</p>

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It is not capable of spontaneous storage during high winds because the elevation angles are fixed and therefore, it must be structurally able to withstand all wind forces. Another geometric figure with one oblique axis is the fixed azimuthal inclination tracer. The tracker with a constant azimuth inclination tilts in height, and then rotates about a vertical axis. This design, although usually more stable

<p>5 Structurally from the tilt of the swivel tilt tracker, it suffers from the same cost defects as the tilt-and-roll design; Despite the performance gain, the single axis beveled geometry can make economical for some structures.</p>

The latest tracking geometry is the Dual Axis Tracking (D/A). Dual axis D/A tracking devices give the biggest performance gain over all of the aforementioned 10 tracker geometries because they keep the solar modules perpendicular to the sun's rays in both the two axes there,

However, there are several practical disadvantages to these systems: they require more ground due to the spacing required to avoid shadows in two dimensions; It requires a more complex structure that needs more structural materials due to the increased length expected from the ground and foundations; A second drive axle is required for height, which increases complexity, expense, and maintenance problems. In addition, D/A systems usually

<p>15th Two motors running in a relatively small area of ​​the solar modules are used which leads to increases in both initial cost and subsequent maintenance costs. Some types of solar collectors, eg focusing on concentrating solar collectors, require a D/A tracker to function.</p>

As mentioned earlier, the ideal solar tracking system will work in all conditions. This includes cases

<p>20 in which the tracking movement is obstructed by obstacles or the like. If no maintenance procedures are in place, permanent damage to the tracking system can occur when obstructing conditions exist. In addition, human intervention may be required to treat this condition. Sometimes, timely human intervention may be impossible if the means of tracing are in remote areas, and secondly, sending a technician to each disability case can be very costly.</p>

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Another requirement in a tracked solar system is the ability to be flexible in designing systems that support different lengths of driveshafts for different terrains and ground systems. At present, the manufacture of a specified length of shafts requires on-site welding and painting. A similar problem concerns torsion tubes. It is necessary to have a design to provide a simple way to connect the sections of the ducting tubes

<p>5 together on site.</p>

General description of the invention

The claimed invention currently solves all of the above problems. One of the objectives of the invention to be protected is the mechanically linking of multiple solar trackers in the form of a large format so that they work in unison, driven by a single motor and a single control unit.

<p>10 in the means of tracking. The mechanical linkage system is positively designed so that it should only be able to withstand the relatively low forces required to move the tracking devices without having to resist the larger forces from the wind that affect the arrangement of the trackers.</p>

trackers

Another objective of the invention currently to be protected is to contain external wind forces15 within the support of each individual solar tracker so that no

Make additional foundations or attachments. Another goal is to apply operating principles to the various geometries of single axis solar trackers to maximize the economic performance of each solar tracking application.

The mechanical actuating system of the currently claimed invention advantageously links multiple 20 single-axis trackers together, driving multiple trackers through a simple, minimal connection

Structurally to reduce costs and increase reliability in the long run. The formation of mechanical links and gear drives allows the engine to move the connected trackers and eliminates the transmission of external wind forces to the drive linkage. By exploiting the 'one-way' operating properties of the currently claimed invention, a mechanical joint only needs to transmit the relatively small forces needed to move a medium.

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The tracker is not subject to the relatively high forces caused by the wind's effect on the tracking device. An additional advantage of the system is that the relatively small motor can move over a large area of ​​the solar modules.

The payment system of the invention to be protected currently applies to all engineering forms of tracking

<p>5 Solar. The actuator configuration results in a highly reliable, flexible, low-cost tracking method that is easy to install and maintain. The various models of the invention currently claimed to be protected apply the operating system to the appropriate tracking architecture in order to maximize the economic benefit of the tracking system.</p>

One embodiment of this disclosure is the operation of multiple rows mechanically connected to a horizontal solar tracker assembly. Rows of solar energy units are formed by installing energy units

<p>10 The solar tube is generally positioned horizontally, with its longitudinal axis oriented north/south (N/S (North/South). Each row includes one or more supports to the north and south of the center, as well as the possible use of a central support. Bearings are installed on Each tube supports a tube so that the rotating motion of the tube can be affected by a single-stage worm gear assembly and gear or by a worm gear assembly, which includes a gear</p>

<p>15th For the second stage it is fixed in the torsion tube and one or more supports. A swivel drive shaft is installed on both sides of the worm drive assembly. The shaft can be positioned at right angles to the torsion tube and connected to each worm disk actuator to enable rotation of the torsion tube by applying rotational motion to the driven shaft. Gearbox reverse gearing by wind forces acting on the system is almost eliminated by the characteristics inherent in the worm gear drive assembly.</p>

<p>20 The primary present in each tracer. The worm gear drive assembly can be operated efficiently by introducing a rotating motion from the drive shaft to the worm gear, but this is completely ineffective when transmitting the rotary motion applied by the system to the worm case. Therefore, the torque forces, caused by the wind, acting on the solar system cannot be effectively transmitted to the shaft connection. The result is that the drive shaft does not need to resist wind forces on the system and is only transmitted</p>

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The driving force from the engine through a highly geared transmission system. This allows the shaft to be minimally built, and allows for flexibility in design and planning on the site of the solar tracker assembly.

Another embodiment of this aspect of the invention currently to be protected is the inclusion of hinged connections at the ends of each drive shaft to enable the tracer rows to vary in length and/or travel in

<p>5 The direction is from north to south. Hinged operating column adds flexibility in layout site layout. Layout locations that use articulated shaft connections can be built on undulating or inclined terrain, and can be adapted to fit the boundaries of an irregular installation site. The horizontal axis tracker reduces required structural components, allows for a higher density of units to be installed in the area, and provides the highest levels of performance than a single axis horizontal solar tracker system.</p>

<p>10 Through the use of a programmable reverse scheme system to collect solar energy in the early morning and late evening.</p>

In addition to reducing the number and weight of structural components, the horizontal tracking system reduces on-site labor costs and installation requirements. It also provides a means to store the unit layout in the event of a hurricane, storm, or other potentially devastating weather event. Another goal of the model is

<p>15th Horizontal feedback that unit costs are significantly reduced and should remain competitive</p>

Compared to static matrices, they contain a small amount of structural material.

A second embodiment of the invention to be protected is the tilt operation of the solar multiple tilt and roll tracking devices using the same operating principles as in the horizontal tracking system. In this embodiment, variations in the worm-drive gear system can be

<p>20 Effectively use it to drive multiple tilt and roll trackers in array location using only one motor and one controller. Hinged joints can also be included on the shafts to achieve the same flexibility as in the application of the S/A horizontal method.</p>

A third embodiment of the invention currently required to be protected is the integration of the operating system into a field application of several fixed azimuthal azimuthal tracking methods. RC axle bearings can be specially designed into a support upright

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of the tracker to position the gear drive linkage close to the tracker support base in order to provide clearance for the solar array drive shaft system. A more conventional bearing system may also be included, such a groove actuator can be included in the geometry of the fixed tilt azimuthal tracker if it is properly designed to withstand the load forces located near the base of the bearing.

<p>5 Layout support. Another favorable application of the operating system is the integration of a worm gear actuator connected to a circular type of fixed azimuthal tracing format field. In this model, the tilted solar array is rotated on bearings with a large circular area to track the sun. The circular tracker can also be created in a simple design for surface applications.</p>

The models described in this application are intended to provide a cost-effective, long-life solution

<p>10 and low maintenance costs to implement solar tracking for photovoltaic (PV) or other solar modules for solar applications. The invention currently to be protected addresses the general problem of how best to install and track PV modules in order to maximize the economic return from system installation, while including a similar operating system The principles are similar for each tracking engineering.Because the invention currently required to be protected can be included in the various geometries of the tracing, it is</p>

<p>15th Allows consideration of the balance between unit efficiency as it relates to sun-tracking geometries, land use, material use, operating and maintenance costs, weather, climate, and installation cost. The current MCS model is superior to the prior art because it eliminates the need for the operating system to withstand high wind load forces. Other advantages include eliminating the large discrete foundations for mounting the operating system, and the connection requires less material than</p>

<p>20 It is prior art, and the interface also allows for greater flexibility in field planning of the tracking devices and a single engine operates a much larger tracking range.</p>

The operating system of the invention currently to be protected allows connection to be done in two ways: 1) using rigid conductive shafts for deployment on flat ground or 2) using articulated or universal connections at the end of shafts for use in rough terrain or in irregularly shaped layouts.

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Both straps can be used within a single track system for installation in a field consisting of a combination of flat and uneven or irregularly shaped installation sites.

The preferred system also has an adjustable limit of the drive line torque applied by the motor to the drive line. The system monitors torque via clutch slip, engine force, or sensors

<p>5 Tracking movement or other monitoring methods, to identify the event that impedes the movement of the tracking device. A remote location monitors the status of each tracking system and sends commands through a communication system. Once the detectors or sensors detect an obstruction, the system enters obstruction mode 1 (OCM1) clearing, which is a series of adjustable high-frequency attempts to move the obstructed tracker for an adjustable, predetermined duration of time. If the tracker starts the movement</p>

<p>10 As one of a series of attempts, the system will continue to operate in a normal manner. If the obstruction state persists after a specified period of time, the system enters Omission Elimination Mode 2 (OCM2). This mode is an adjustable lowest frequency mode for a longer, predetermined period of time. Again, if the tracker moves through this mode in a normal manner, it returns The system returns to normal operation.If the default condition persists after OCM2, the remote site is warned and can be</p>

<p>15th Send a maintenance avard to the site. The remote site, during this whole process receives information and can send commands to the tracking system.</p>

A blocking and monitoring system can be designed to prevent damage from excessive torque to the operating line or other components and to prevent the fracturing means from tripping which means a visit by maintenance personnel to reset the breaker.

<p>20 Another feature of the invention to be protected is a method and system for the secure connection of a round tube or shaft to a running line connection, such as a hinged connection or gluing the ends of a round tube into a track system. The preferred system has a first party that has the shape of number 8 and a second party that has the same shape of number 8, but the second party is smaller to allow the second party to enter into the first party. In the low area in the form of number 8, there are keys installed in the first and second end to form</p>

<p>25 Tight, concentric, closed running line connection. This method and system allows unimaginable manufacturing</p>

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The taxpayer for pipes of varying length in a factory, and does not require any welding or preparation on the job site. The resulting linkage is easy to assemble, adjustable in length, and results in excellent focus, tightness, and the ability to transmit high torque loads without damage.

A second connection method and a second system for a square tube or shaft configuration are disclosed. . is supplied

<p>5 A coupling device with a plate inserted in the corners of the coupling device. Insert a first end of a square tube into the coupling and a spacer plate to contact with the stop pin of the coupling. The second party is entered in the same way. The thrust bolts are screwed into threaded holes in the coupling, pushing a spacer plate on the first and second ends of the square tube. In addition, the bolts are tightened into additional threaded holes, through the spacer plate and first and second end treatments. This link also avoids operations</p>

<p>10 Welding is on site and provides a tight, efficient connection to all strands of square tube in tracking systems.</p>

The objectives, advantages and other new characteristics, as well as more scope of the capability of the invention currently to be protected will be explained in the following detailed description, in conjunction with the attached drawings, and in part, as it will become clear to those with experience in this field when they study the following Or it can be identified through the practice of the invention to be protected. These are the objectives and advantages of the required invention

<p>15th Its protection can be achieved and obtained by means of the tools and kits specifically referred to in the annexed elements of protection.</p>

Brief explanation of the drawings

The attached drawings, which are included in the specification and form part of it, illustrate several models of the invention that is currently required to be protected, and in conjunction with the full description, it serves to explain the principles of the invention.

<p>20 to be protected. These drawings are only for the purpose of illustrating the preferred models of the invention to be protected and should not be considered as a limitation on the scope of the invention to be protected. These graphics will be illustrated in the following description.</p>

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Figure 1a shows a model of the mechanically connected horizontal tracker with a worm gear set to operate a spur gear rack and another worm gear set to operate a D-shaped chainring actuator.

Figure 1b shows a worm gear assembly to drive a cable motor.

5 Figure 2 illustrates the direct-operated horizontal tracker system.

Figure 3a shows the model of the worm gear assembly of the letter-shaped chainring ring .

.D

Figure 3b shows the worm gear assembly of the leaf set of spur gear.

Figure 4 shows the hinged connections.

10 Figure 5 is a profile showing hydraulic dampers installed in each row of trackers to provide greater power for each row.

Figure 6 shows a mechanically connected worm drive gearbox located inside a solar tracker with a tilt and turn system.

Figure 7 shows a mechanically connected worm drive gearbox located inside a 15 azimuthal fixed inclination vehicle.

Figure 8A shows the rotating support tube assembly in Figure 7.

Figure 8b shows a worm gear assembly installed in the RC carrier of the fixed inclination azimuthal device.

Figure 9 shows a mechanically connected worm drive gear box located inside a vehicle

20 Fixed inclination circular solar tracker.

Figure 10 is a flow chart showing the preferred tunable limit model for over-torque conditions.

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Figure 11 shows a magnifying viewfinder for the preferred connection of a round or round shaft to the end of a U-shaped connector.

Figure No. 12 shows the model shown in Figure 11 in the case of connection.

Figure 13 shows a magnified view of the preferred square tube coupling method.

5 Figure 14 shows the model shown in Figure 13 in a completed state.

Figure 15 shows the preferred square tube coupling method, which connects two square tubes.

Detailed description:

The invention that is currently required to be protected has four models of the tracking device, with a horizontal axis, with a fixed slant azimuth, with an inclination and turn, and a circular tracking device, all of which are connected mechanically and operated by a system

<p>10 The operation of a worm gear is operated by means of an area. All geometries of the tracker include a primary worm gear actuator, attached to the tracker frame, either directly, or through a secondary such as a spur sprocket, a D-ring chain drive, or a cable system mounted on one or two supports Tracker column. The model disclosed allows multiple rows of the tracker to be driven by a single drive motor through the shaft connection</p>

<p>15th mechanical, which need not resist external forces acting on the system.</p>

single horizontal axis

A single axis mechanically connected horizontal model according to the invention currently under protection is a 10 tracking assembly to orient one or more solar panels or 12 PV modules toward the sun, as shown in Figure 1a. 14 driving mechanism,

<p>20 It is, in this case, a drive motor, providing power to the 28 drive shaft and coupling accompanying the 12 PV units. The preferred driving mechanism 14 is a drive motor with a 15 brake to limit the starting of the engine after the power supply has been turned off and to resist engine motion and reverse forces. In the model shown in Figure 1a, the operating mechanism 14</p>

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It turns the 28 drive shaft, which in turn drives a worm gear set or a 26 drive box, as will be explained later. In the embodiment shown in Figure 1a, a worm gear drive train transmits power to a drive shaft 28. This assembly uses a 16 rotor torsion tube, in this case, horizontal and north to south, in which the 12 PV units are installed,

5 Using fastening methods well known in the industry, such as U-bolt 18, clamps or other well-known unit mounting systems. A twist tube 16 is inserted into bearings 20, which have bearing surfaces like maintenance-free polymer bushings, and which are connected to the 22 support columns. The actuator or actuator 14 drives a 26 worm-gear drive box, which, in turn, directly drives the 10 16 tube, as shown in Figure 2, or drives a secondary component, which in turn operates

On turning on my tube. In FIG. 1a, the secondary is a sprocket of a 30 spur gear or a 34 D-shaped chainring actuator, fitted into a twist 16 tube. The secondary may also be a cable drive assembly or other drive assemblies well known in the art. . (Not shown). . So, when activated by the trigger mechanism PV14 is managed

<p>15th Modules 12. A second, third, etc. tracking group, similar to the tracking group 10 to a shaft 28, can be connected in this embodiment to the shaft end 30, with a similar and separate worm group. This can be repeated for several tracking groups. So, one drive 14 can manage many tracking groups. Mechanical linkage of trackers on the job site reduces system complexity, operation and maintenance costs, and increases reliability.</p>

<p>20 Figure 2 illustrates the direct-operated horizontal tracker system. In this embodiment, the engine 14 directly drives the worm gears 26, which drive the torsion tubes 16. This provides rotary motion for the 12PV units.</p>

Figures 3a and 3b show worm gear assemblies. A worm gear set 26' and 26' is provided at each tracker location and is driven by a drive shaft or by the drive mechanism.

<p>25 Typically, this kit contains a 36 worm and a 38 worm-gear.</p>

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The worm ring 36 is fixed to the shaft 28 by means well known in the art. Figure 3A shows a worm gear assembly 26 to operate a D-ring chain actuator. A worm gear 38 is attached to a sprocket 41 affixed to sprocket for a 34 D ring chain actuator assembly. Figure 3b shows a 26' worm gear set to operate a set

5 The 30 spur gear rack assembly installs a running gear 42 of the 30 spur leaf rack assembly into the 38 spur gear rack assembly. Any combination of 26' and 26' worm gear assemblies can be used in the four embodiments as described here. Figure 1b shows the 26” worm gear assembly that drives a cable drive 33.

10 With this design of the mechanically linked worm drive assembly 26' and 26', the site can be leveled for easier installation. The mechanically connected design may also be deployed on uneven, inclined, or undulating ground with the addition of articulated connections 40, such as a hitch or universal connection on 28 drive shafts. Figure 4 shows an example of a tracking system for use in uneven terrain. Hinge joint compensation 40

15th The angle of misalignment between the trackers in both the horizontal and vertical directions allows the shaft 28 to communicate with the next tracker without the need for fine-tuning and fine-tuning of the location of the next tracker with respect to the first tracker. Again, this feature of the hinged joint can be used with any of the models disclosed here.

If it is decided not to level the site, only the columns for each single row of trackers should be accurately positioned.

20 The columns for the following trackers can be placed on site at a tolerance of little height relative to the other trackers. Field location setup requirements, such as leveling, are then reduced because the column height from one tracking device to the next can be changed.

Referring again to Figure 1a, the support posts 22 are preferably made of galvanized steel round tubes. In a floor-mounted installation, multiple columns 22 are connected to the ground 25 in a straight line using a concrete foundation, columns that are anchored into the ground, and a screw foundation or

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Other foundation fittings (not shown). For stabilization of other structures such as a commercial overhead roof or garage, 22 columns are attached to the shoring members of the structure (not shown). When connecting to another structure, it may be desirable that an A frame support design be used instead. From an existing ground tube to distribute forces across a wider area over the constructed house (not shown).

5 A torsion tube 16, preferably a square, can be inserted into UHMW polymer 20 bearings designed to centralize the square tube to the round bearing housing at the top of 22 columns. This 16 twist tube can consist of several pieces connected together. Couplings can consist of hanging joints where one tube is made with a small section to fit the next tube (not shown). These joints can then be welded together to ensure a secure connection.

<p>10 (Not shown). All seams must be cleaned and painted to prevent corrosion.</p>

The bearing assembly 20, preferably UHMW bearings, shall be mounted on the top of the 22 shafts, which preferably shall consist of a group of tubes made together at ninety degree (90°) angles, forming a T. The vertical portion of the tube can form a bushing that is It is fixed above or inside the shaft 22. This bushing can be fixed to the shaft with a set of bolts that are inserted into the round shaft, and can also be

<p>15th They are fixed with a swivel screw by pressing into a hole in the two parts, or simply welded to the shaft. The 20 bearing assembly can also be manufactured with plate or plates bolted to a ground support shaft (not shown).</p>

Within the horizontal tube of the bearing tee are injection-molded polymeric bearings, or the like, having an inner shape corresponding to a torsion tube 16, round and outer diameter round.

<p>20 These bearings can be made from a polymer material such as polyethylene UHMW with UV inhibitors and can be filled with lubricant. These bearings can be machined with two separate pieces to facilitate installation in the T . housing</p>

The sprocket for the 30 spur gear, the 34D ring chain actuator assembly or the cable drive system (not shown), is connected to a 16-way tube preferably in the center of a row

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Tracking method. A ring gear or a 30 D-shaped chainring actuator assembly allows a fixed lift point to counter the windage forces acting on the gear. Linear actuator driven systems convert linear motion into circular motion, and must withstand high loads because connecting the actuator to a tube changes angles as a cosine function while the tracker is rotating. 5 As a result, the linear actuator must withstand higher loads than the ring gear system or the drive system

The series. The worm gear drive gearbox 26 is mounted in one or two of the 22 support columns of the Tracker, coupled to the rack of a spur gear, a 30D chainring actuator or a cable actuator. Each row of worm gear drive gearbox in each row of trackers 26 is connected to the second row using 10 28 rotating drive shafts. 26 worm gear actuator design and system

The coupling eliminates the need to transfer wind load forces to the coupling. The operating mechanism worm gear 26 withstands the forces carrying the wind locally, within the supports of the tracking device, at each tracking device. The design includes a system connected to the shaft 28, to the worm gear actuator 26 to operate several trackers with a single motor.

<p>15th As shown in FIG. 5, the 32 harmonic dampeners may be installed along a length of 16 Li tube at shaft positions 22, to separate the structure from the forces induced by the wind. Symmetrical dampers 32 increase the number of units that can be installed on a longer torsion tube</p>

<p>16 torsion tube without the increased stiffness and cost of the bearing structure. Use of inhibitory factors</p>

<p>32 dampeners eliminates the need to increase the torsion tube size by 16, while allowing for more 12 . units</p>

20 It is loaded on a tube of the same cross section 16. The result is that the assembly center of gravity remains close to the bearings 20, reducing the operating system's overhang weight load and spreading the cost of the gear actuator over a larger track size.

As shown in Figures 1a and 2 a row of single solar modules 12 is connected to a tube ly 16 by a mounting device 18 comprising a module frame clamp, module flake or rods 25 module mount. The 18 connection of the 16-pipe can be made using a square nut

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Curved U-shaped or two large screws and plate to form the clamp around the 16 torsion tube or unit mounting rails. This arrangement forms a long row of 12 solar modules that rotate from east to west with the operating system rotating 14 to 16 tubes. An important consideration is to reduce the suspension swivel torque rather than the overhang of the modules. 5 This can be achieved by directly attaching the unit frames to a twist tube 16, or if necessary, by using unit bars of a minimum depth, or compensation, from the surface of the tube 16.

Mechanically linked tilted S/A tracking device

The single-axis, tilting, rotating, mechanically connected model 44 according to the present invention is a tracking system for directing one or more solar panels or 12 PV modules toward the sun, and is shown in Figure 10 Figure 6. Operating mechanism (not shown) As previously explained, Provides the power and connectivity to move the units

12PV by shaft 28. The operating mechanism uses a swivel twist tube 16, in this case, inclined, in a north/south direction, and includes mounting rails on which the PV units are attached 12. Torsion tube 16 is inserted into the upper bearing 20, with bearing surfaces . Like polymer liners that do not require maintenance, 22 can be included connected to overhead support columns. A combination of

15th Radial and thrust bearings in worm gear drive gearbox 26 to resist down and radial forces on the gear. As already explained, the motor (not shown) drives the worm gear drive box 26, which, in turn, directly rotates the torsion tube 16 or turns a secondary element, which, in turn, turns the torsion tube. D-shaped, as previously described in TURN TUBE (not shown). So, upon activation

20 By the actuating mechanism, the 12 PV modules are rotated. Thus, a single motor can rotate several operating mechanisms. The mechanically linked tilt-and-turn tracking device 44 exploits the same “one-way” operating mechanism as a model for the treadmill tracking system and thus transmits only the forces needed to rotate the PV mode, and the wind forces are resisted locally within each tracking device mode.

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Mechanically related fixed azimuthal azimuth tracking device:

A model of a mechanically connected fixed azimuthal azimuth tracker with a single axis 50 according to the invention to be protected is shown in Figure 7. This model is also a tracking system for orienting one or more solar panels or 12 PV modules toward the sun. The preferred operating mechanism has been previously explained

5 It is similar to the explanation. The operating mechanism uses a 52 swivel support tube assembly, in this case, moored, and includes a chassis with 54 mounting rails on which the 12 PV modules are installed. As in previous embodiments, the 56 worm gear assembly is rotated by a drive shaft 28, which in turn drives an outer 58 outer vertical tube along with the 12 mounted PV units. The 52 rotor assembly is shown in Figure 8a. The outer RC support tube is inserted

<p>10 60 vertical support tubes 62 top bearings that are fixed to the top</p>

and 64 inner vertical support tube. The upper bearings 62 preferably have a thrust and radial bearing surface as achieved eg by tapered roller bearings. The drive motor (not shown), as previously explained, drives the worm gear drive box 66, which, in turn, directly rotates the torsion tube 68 or turns a secondary element which

<p>15th In turn, it turns the torsion tube (not shown). A spur gear wheel or D-ring chain actuator can also be installed in the torsion tube 68, as previously described. For further illustration of the operating mechanism of this model, Figure 8b shows a close-up view of a ring A worm 70 drives a cycloidal worm gear 72, which makes the external RC support tube 60 rotate. Thus, when activated by the actuating mechanism, the 12 PV modules rotate. Another design of the azimuth-tracking device is</p>

<p>20 The fixed bevel includes a grooved drive bearing and a worm drive mechanism to rotate and support the PV format. The gear actuator is placed low enough on the support structure that the swivel does not interfere with the PV modules when rotating. For the mechanical connection shown in Figure 7, the drive shaft 28 is driven by a motor through a worm gear drive box 56, which in turn is mounted in a second drive mechanism to instantaneously rotate a second set of 12 PV units. So, one motor does 24</p>

<p>25 Rotate many operating mechanisms. The mechanically connected fixed azimuthal azimuthal tracking method is exploited</p>

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The same “single-track” operating mechanism as the horizontal tracking system model so wind forces can be resisted locally within each tracked pattern.

Mechanically related rotary azimuthal tracking device

The mechanically connected rotary azimuthal tracking device is shown in Figure 9. Tracking device model

5 The mechanically connected single-axis azimuthal azimuthal in the present invention is also a tracking system for orienting one or more solar panels or 12 PV modules toward the sun. The actuating mechanism, previously explained, provides the power and connectivity to move the 12 PV modules to each 70 tracker assembly. In this embodiment, each 70 tracker assembly is rotated in a coherent fashion, as shown. Operating Mechanism Provides the power and communication to move the PV modules by means of a shaft 28. Operating Mechanism

10 It uses a mechanically connected worm gear drive 72 in combination with a bearing ring, of large diameter 74 on which the 12 PV mode rotates. Worm gear drive gearbox 72 drives a large diameter ring 74 using a secondary assembly such as a rack and pinion, chain drive or cable drive system (not shown). Then by turning a spur gear, pulley or sprocket with

15th Chain, which drives a large-diameter bearing ring 74. The loading includes both thrust and radial loading surfaces. These bearing surfaces can be constructed from polymer liners, or formed rollers. The 12 PV format of the Rotary Tracker 70 can also be configured in a low-efficiency form to reduce wind loads and can be suitable for use in rooftop applications. Rotary Tracking Facility 70 exploits the same mechanically linked “single-track” actuation mechanism as the horizontal tracking system model, enabling

20 Allows multiple trackers to be powered by a single motor. External wind forces on the tracking devices are resisted locally within each tracked mode.

Tracking device control unit

The microprocessor tracker monitoring system can include a global positioning system to obtain and update location and time information.

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automatically and compensate for the internal time drift of the electronics. The time, data and position information will be used by the microprocessor controller to calculate the solar position and transmit the tracking system to maximize the exposure of the units to sunlight. Solar tracking algorithms are well known and published. The system may also have external inputs such as a wind speed monitor

5 Enables automatic protection of the trackers in the event of a severe storm. The control system can include a manual override function for manual processing of the position of the tracker for installation or maintenance. This control system may also include diagnostics, such as a tracking function and/or monitoring of the production of a specific format.

The control system interacts with the motorized part of the operating system and the data collection system. The gear-actuator assembly will include a position feedback mechanism, preferably digital, to allow

<p>10 The processor can move the tracker to the desired position and track whether the tracker is working properly. The motorized array includes a motion indicator terminal that allows the processor to know it is in the "end" position, assuring that the motor will not push the trackers beyond their mechanical limits, and allowing the tracker position to reset itself once per day to avoid accumulating error around the position. The motor shall include a means of protection against a moving overload. If the method fails</p>

<p>15th Tracking to move due to mechanical failure or excessive load on the engine, must be a system</p>

The control is capable of detecting a defect, stopping a process, and recording or transmitting information.

Multiple tracking drives can be connected to a single console in a wired or wired network configuration. Multiple main controls in a large solar field can be linked into a single grid. The control system can record and communicate the current tracking positions. It can also record and deliver

<p>20 Errors in the tracking device system to the supervisory control system. Other improvements to the monitoring system could include monitoring the PV output on each tracker. Because the output of the entire unit drops to almost zero if it is partially shaded, it is necessary to include a reverse tracking scheme, which will rotate the units in the opposite direction to the sun, in order to prevent one tracker from shadowing another in the early morning and evening, when the sun is close from the horizon. Can calculate scenario</p>

<p>25 Reverse tracking from sun angles, elevation, and spacing between trackers. you can play</p>

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Individual tracking devices with reverse tracking at different rates based on the height of the tracking device installation in relation to adjacent tracking devices.

For small installations where few tracking devices are installed, a simpler, closed-loop optical tracking system can be used in place of the open-loop microprocessor controller as described above.

Figure 10 is a flow diagram illustrating the preferred method for incorporating an adjustable limit into the torque of the drive line which can be applied by the motor to the drive line. In most tracking systems, when the tracking device is obstructed by an obstacle, heavy snow load or the like, the motor's circuit breaker trips which requires a person to go to the stuck tracking device to reset the circuit breaker even if

<p>10 The obstacle has been removed or the fault condition has expired. For example, if it snows heavily and temporarily impedes the movement of the tracking device. The invention currently claimed provides a system to temporarily remove power from the motor for a specified period of time and then provide power to the motor once the obstruction condition has been terminated, or continue to power off the motor if the condition persists after at least one reset cycle. Determining the amount of torque of the operating line or the movement of the tracking device can be achieved by several</p>

<p>15th roads. Clutch slip can be determined, a sensor can be installed on the tracker to sense motion, and the amount of power used by the engine can be monitored to a predetermined level or other similar means can be used.</p>

Referring to Figures 1 and 10, the preferred system and preferred method first calculate the 150 . mode

<p>20 in the 152 programmable logic control (PLC), as it does in most tracking device systems. The system then sends a signal to move the tracker 154, if necessary. If the tracker is in the correct position and does not need to be moved 156, the system returns to the position calculation mode 150. This information is transmitted to the Supervisory Control And Data Acquisition (SCADA) 180, via</p>

<p>25 . Rooftop controller 17. 180 SCADA provides connections to, from, one or the other </p>

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more than tracker systems over typical communication networks 19. If the tracker needs to be moved 158, a signal is sent to the tracker engine 14 to move the tracker. Feedback on the position of the tracker 160 is provided by the motor of the tracker 14 and determining whether the tracker 162 is moving or not, via a sensor

5 Movement 21. If the tracker 164 is moving, the operating system is operating normally and the system will feedback to calculate the position position 150. If the tracker 166 is not moving, the system will enter the OCM1 (168) 1 and the PLC 152 signal is sent to 168 OCM1 180 SCADA is an attempt at high frequencies to move the tracker for a specified period of time by driving the tracker motor 170 and sending a signal to calculate the position 150. 10 For example, this can happen once a minute for thirty minutes. Frequency and time period

Fully adjustable by the user. 168 OCM1 is usually sufficient to compensate for a momentary wind event or temporary obstruction. If the tracker moves according to the instructions during the OCM1 period, the tracker operates normally again, sending a report of 172 to 180 SCADA and calculating position 150.

15th After the preset time has been exhausted in 168 OCM1 mode, and when there is still no movement condition, a signal 174 is presented and the system enters OCM2 (167) via a message from 176 OCM2.180 SCADA is an attempt at minimum frequency to move the tracker , eg once every twenty minutes, for a longer period of time, eg two weeks. Again, the frequency and time period are fully adjustable by the user.

20 176 for long-term disruption events, such as a prolonged snowstorm. If you start a way

Tracking movement during the time period 176 OCM2, this is mentioned 178 to and 180 SCADA to calculate position 150 and the system is operating normally. If after the OCM2 time period no movement of the tracking device is measured, the system stops all movement attempts and reports to SCADA 180 that there is a failure condition and that maintenance personnel can be sent to the site.

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State of the art nowadays requires soldered ends or connections which are very expensive and inflexible for running poles. Typically welded ends are used by welding the end of the arched part of the running line or the like. Round tubes are the most efficient and require the least structural material to transmit torque. Figures 11 and 12 show the preferred model of the tube coupling method

5 round or connector to the operating line connection, such as the U-shaped connections as shown in the figures. As shown in Figure 11, the coupling 100 is formed on a 110 round shaft. The coupling 100 has an 8, 112 end with corresponding indented grooves 114, which are semicircular, and is located in the center of the 8, 112 ends. One or more of the 118 coupler apertures are drilled from

10 Through the opposite indentation grooves 114, as shown. Starter grooves 114 are configured to accept half-round, half-round press wrenches 116. Pressure switches 116 have complementary master holes 120 corresponding to the coupling holes 118 for inserting slotted screws 122, coupling seals 124, and coupling closing seals 128, coupling nuts 126.

15th The end of the component 130 has a similar component ending in the form of the number 8 in English, 132 which is configured to include it within the end of the form of the number 8 in English, 112 within the limits of the optimum tolerance. Inside the indented grooves 134 is a rectangular slot 136 to accept large bolts 122 and to make the connection adjustable. Figure 12 shows the relationship between the coupling device 100 and the end of the component 130 with the large screws 122 after inserting them through the corresponding pressure switches 116, the holes of the medium

20 Coupling 118, rectangular hole 136 and coupling nuts 126. Structural elements and means

The pressure coupling of the rotary shaft 110 to the component 138 provides a simple system to provide a strong connection. This also provides a tight, stable, concentric drive line connection that is inexpensive to manufacture and will accommodate drive shafts of different lengths in the factory and does not require on-site welding or painting. The resulting joint is easy to assemble, adjustable in length and has excellent centering.

25 Excellent tightness and ability to transmit high torque loads.

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Figures 13, 14, and 15 show the preferred coupling method for a square tube or run-line. The coupling device 200 is a square tube having an inner dimension larger than that of a twist tube 202 or square drive line. Figure No. 13 is an enlarged view of the coupling device 200. Figure No. 14 shows the coupling device 200 after its assembly and Figure No. 15 shows the coupling device 200 and it connects the corresponding torsion tubes 202.

5 Coupling device 200 on housing 204 having length 206 sufficient to hold both ends of the twist tube 202 in a stable position and align two opposite tubes of tube 202. Preferred coupling 200 has a spacer plate 208 which is a tilted structure that is configured to sandwich between housing 204 and tube housing 202. When torsion tubes 202 are inserted into housing 204. A spacer plate 208 is used to obtain more stability and compatibility for opposing torsion tubes 202. A spacer plate 208 has two of

<p>10 Window holes for large bolts 210 and hole with stop pin 212 located mainly in the center of the spacer plate 208. Housing 204 has two press holes 214 and has press holes 216 to press on the spacer plate 208 When the bolts 216 are tightened, thus, the spacer plate is compressed 208 toward corresponding torsion tubes 202. Housing 204 also has two treatment holes 218 and two treatment bolts 220 that are screwed into threaded treatment holes</p>

<p>15th 218. The processing holes 218 are largely in line with the window holes of the screw 210 to allow</p>

For treatment bolts 220 to contact or enter into tubes 202 when tightened. The housing 204 should preferably have a stop bolt 222, which can be a rivet, a large bolt or a pin, fixed to the center of the housing 204 to serve as a stop for inserting the tubes 202 into the housing 204. Although this disclosure and drawings show two threaded manipulation holes 218

<p>20 And two 214 threaded pressure holes with corresponding large screws, this disclosure is intended to cover any number of them, so the number can be increased or decreased depending on the application.</p>

Although this description refers to PV modules, the invention currently protected can also be used to track solar heat collection devices, build shade systems, test materials for exposure to sunlight, and other systems that require solar tracking.

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Although the invention to be protected is described in detail with particular reference to preferred embodiments, other embodiments can achieve the same results. There will be changes and modifications in the invention that is currently required to be protected within the capabilities of the experts in this field, and the attached protection elements cover all these modifications and the like. What was revealed in all references,

<p>5 The applications, patents, and publications mentioned above are hereby incorporated by reference.</p>

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