A coupling system for use with a solar tracker includes a support flange, a swivel flange rotatably supported on the support flange, an articulation joint interposed between each of the support flange and the swivel flange and rotatably supported by each of the support flange and the swivel flange, wherein opposed first and second end portions of the articulation joint are configured to be operably coupled to a respective first and second torque tube, and at least one locking fastener selectively coupled to a portion of the support flange and a portion of the swivel flange, the at least one locking fastener configured to selectively inhibit rotation of the swivel flange relative to the support flange.
F24S 30/455 - Arrangements for moving or orienting solar heat collector modules for rotary movement with two rotation axes with horizontal primary axis
F24S 30/458 - Arrangements for moving or orienting solar heat collector modules for rotary movement with two rotation axes with inclined primary axis
A coupling system for use with a solar tracker includes a support rail including a pair of opposed flanges disposed in spaced relation to one another and defining a channel therebetween, each of the pair of opposed flanges including a respective slot defined therethrough, and a coupling clip configured to be received within each of the slots and a portion of a module rail received within the channel of the support rail, wherein the coupling clip includes a resilient finger disposed on a distal end portion configured to engage a portion of the pair of opposed flanges to inhibit proximal movement of the coupling clip and a one protrusion disposed on a proximal portion thereof configured to engage a portion of an opposite flange of the pair of opposed flanges to inhibit distal movement of the coupling clip to couple the module rail to the support rail.
A solar tracking system includes a first solar tracking row and a second solar tracking row, each of the first and second solar tracking rows including a plurality of support piers, a torque tube rotatably supported on the plurality of support piers, a plurality of solar modules coupled to the torque tube, and at least one damper coupled to the plurality of support piers at a first end and coupled to a portion of the torque tube at a second, opposite end, and a connecting rod coupled to a portion of each torque tube of the first and second solar trackers such that rotation of the torque tube of the first solar tracker row effectuates movement of the connecting rod, which in turn, effectuates rotation of the torque tube of the second solar tracking row.
A solar tracking system includes a beam assembly having a beam including a pair of spaced apart flanges and a web interposed between each of the pair of spaced apart flanges and a reinforcement plate selectively coupled to a portion of the beam, the reinforcement plate configured to selectively strengthen a portion of the beam, and a bearing housing assembly selectively couplable to a portion of the beam.
A multi-power distributed storage system including a first power source; a second power source electrically connected to a common bus with the first power source; a single input port inverter electrically connected to the common bus. The system including a controller configured to communicate with at least the second power source, and the single input port inverter. The second power source including a plurality of battery banks and a plurality of bi-directional DC/DC converters configured to charge and discharge the plurality of battery banks and provide DC to the single input port inverter.
H02J 7/00 - Circuit arrangements for charging or depolarising batteries or for supplying loads from batteries
G05B 19/045 - Programme control other than numerical control, i.e. in sequence controllers or logic controllers using logic state machines, consisting only of a memory or a programmable logic device containing the logic for the controlled machine and in which the state of its outputs is dependent on the state of its inputs or part of its own output states, e.g
H02J 3/38 - Arrangements for parallelly feeding a single network by two or more generators, converters or transformers
6.
SENSING AND FEEDBACK FOR ROW ON SUN TRACKING METHOD AND SYSTEM
A solar tracker system comprising a plurality of on sun trackers and a plurality of off sun tracker. Each tracker is selectively adjusted to achieve a desired power output of the solar power plant system in an example.
A parallel inverter system for solar tracker systems minimizes circulating currents, mitigates ripple, and increases efficiency. The parallel inverter system includes inverters coupled together in parallel, a common DC bus coupled between a DC load and inputs of the inverters, a common AC bus coupled between outputs of the inverters and an electrical power grid, and a common-mode filter coupled to the output of each of the inverters. The parallel inverter system also includes controllers coupled to the inverters, respectively, the controllers configured to generate interleaved pulse width modulation (PWM) signals, respectively. The PWM signals are synchronized with each other. The PWM signals may be synchronized with each other via the EtherCAT protocol.
H02M 7/5395 - Conversion of dc power input into ac power output without possibility of reversal by static converters using discharge tubes with control electrode or semiconductor devices with control electrode using devices of a triode or transistor type requiring continuous application of a control signal using semiconductor devices only, e.g. single switched pulse inverters with automatic control of output wave form or frequency by pulse-width modulation
H02J 3/38 - Arrangements for parallelly feeding a single network by two or more generators, converters or transformers
H02M 1/12 - Arrangements for reducing harmonics from ac input or output
8.
METHOD FOR CONTROLLING THE ORIENTATION OF A SOLAR TRACKER BASED ON CARTOGRAPHIC MODELS
A method for controlling the orientation of a single-axis solar tracker orientable about an axis of rotation, said method repetitively completing successive control phases, where each control phase implements the following successive steps:
a) observing the cloud coverage above the solar tracker;
b) comparing the observed cloud coverage with cloud coverage models stored in a database, each cloud coverage model being associated to an orientation setpoint value of the solar tracker;
c) matching the observed cloud coverage with a cloud coverage model;
d) servo-controlling the orientation of the solar tracker by applying the orientation setpoint value associated to said cloud coverage model retained during step c).
G01S 3/786 - Systems for determining direction or deviation from predetermined direction using adjustment of orientation of directivity characteristics of a detector or detector system to give a desired condition of signal derived from that detector or detector system the desired condition being maintained automatically
H02S 20/32 - Supporting structures being movable or adjustable, e.g. for angle adjustment specially adapted for solar tracking
G05D 3/10 - Control of position or direction without using feedback
F24S 50/20 - Arrangements for controlling solar heat collectors for tracking
H02S 50/00 - Monitoring or testing of PV systems, e.g. load balancing or fault identification
A coupling system for use with a solar tracker includes a support rail defining opposed top and bottom surfaces, the top surface configured to support a portion of a solar module, and a fastening assembly operably coupled to a portion of the support rail, the fastening system including a retaining bolt having an elongated head including opposed top and bottom surfaces extending between opposed first and second end portions, wherein the bottom surface of the elongated head is offset from the top surface of the support rail to define a gap, the gap configured to selectively receive a portion of a solar module therein.
H02S 20/32 - Supporting structures being movable or adjustable, e.g. for angle adjustment specially adapted for solar tracking
F16M 13/02 - Other supports for positioning apparatus or articles; Means for steadying hand-held apparatus or articles for supporting on, or attaching to, an object, e.g. tree, gate, window-frame, cycle
Systems and methods for managing flow batteries utilize a battery management controller (BMC) coupled between a flow battery and a DC/DC converter, which is coupled to an electrical grid or a photovoltaic device via an inverter. The inverter converts an AC voltage to a first DC voltage and the DC/DC converter steps down the first DC voltage to a second DC voltage. The BMC includes a first power route, a second power route, and a current source converter coupled to the second power route. The BMC initializes the flow battery with a third DC voltage using the current source converter until a sensing circuit senses that the voltage of the flow battery has reached a predetermined voltage. The sensing circuit may include a capacitor, which has a small capacitance and is coupled across each cell of the flow battery, coupled in series between two resistors having very large resistances.
The present disclosure describes a solar power system including rails, solar modules, and a plurality of adjustable clips to secure the solar modules to the rails. The clips include at least a base member, an elastomeric support member, a bracket member, and an alignment member configured to secure the various members of the clip together. The adjustable clips are configured to slide within a slot defined through a portion of a surface of a rail and including a recessed edge thereby allowing the rail system to accommodate solar modules of varying dimensions.
A power converter converts a medium-voltage output from a solar module to an appropriate voltage to power a solar tracker system. The power converter includes a voltage divider having at least two legs, a first semiconductor switch subassembly coupled in parallel with a first leg of the voltage divider, and a second semiconductor switch subassembly coupled in parallel with a second leg of the voltage divider. The power converter may be a unidirectional or a bidirectional power converter. In implementations, the signals for driving the semiconductor switches of the first and second semiconductor switch subassemblies may be shifted out of phase from each other. In implementations, if the bus voltages to the semiconductor switches are not balanced, the pulse width of the driving signal of the semiconductor switch supplied with the higher bus voltage is decreased for at least one cycle.
H02J 7/35 - Parallel operation in networks using both storage and other dc sources, e.g. providing buffering with light sensitive cells
H02M 3/158 - Conversion of dc power input into dc power output without intermediate conversion into ac by static converters using discharge tubes with control electrode or semiconductor devices with control electrode using devices of a triode or transistor type requiring continuous application of a control signal using semiconductor devices only with automatic control of output voltage or current, e.g. switching regulators including plural semiconductor devices as final control devices for a single load
H02S 20/32 - Supporting structures being movable or adjustable, e.g. for angle adjustment specially adapted for solar tracking
A solar tracking system includes a beam including a pair of legs disposed in spaced relation to one another and extending between respective first and second end portions, a web extending between the first end portion of each of the pair of legs, the web including a V-shaped notch defined therein, and a pair of return flanges defining a respective first end portion disposed on respective second end portions of the pair of legs, the pair of return flanges extending from each respective leg of the pair of legs and terminating at a second end portion defining a gap between the second end portions of the pair of return flanges, and a bearing housing assembly selectively couplable to a portion of the beam.
In an example, the solar tracker has a clamp assembly configured to pivot a torque tube. In an example, the assembly has a support structure configured as a frame having configured by a first and second anchoring region. In an example, the support structure is configured from a thickness of metal material. In an example, the support structure is configured in an upright manner, and has a major plane region. In an example, the assembly has a pivot device configured on the support structure, a torque tube suspending on the pivot device and aligned within an opening of the support, and configured to be normal to the plane region. In an example, the torque tube is configured on the pivot device to move about an arc in a first direction or in a second direction such that the first direction is in a direction opposite to the second direction.
F16L 3/02 - Supports for pipes, cables or protective tubing, e.g. hangers, holders, clamps, cleats, clips, brackets partly surrounding the pipes, cables or protective tubing
F16M 13/02 - Other supports for positioning apparatus or articles; Means for steadying hand-held apparatus or articles for supporting on, or attaching to, an object, e.g. tree, gate, window-frame, cycle
F24S 25/70 - Arrangement of stationary mountings or supports for solar heat collector modules with means for compensating mounting tolerances
In an example, a clamp assembly for a glass on glass solar module for a tracker is included. The assembly has a lower clamp structure characterized by a top-hat shaped rail structure having a length extending from a first end to a second end. In an example, the assembly has an upper clamp structure configured to sandwich a pair of edges of a pair of solar modules with a portion of the lower clamp structure. In an example, the assembly has a locking spacer configured to the pair of edges of the pair of solar modules. In an example, the pair of edges comprises substantially glass material. In an example, the assembly has a pair of key structures configured with the locking spacer. Each of the key structures is affixed to each of the solar modules to physically lock each of the solar modules to the upper clamp structure.
The present disclosure describes a solar power system including at least one mounting assembly including a rail, at least one framed solar module, and at least one clip to secure the solar module to the rail. The clip includes at least a pair of sidewalls extending from a top plate or rear wall, each sidewall including a slot, a recess, and a locking member, at least one of the slot, recess, or both include a serrated edge. The clips may secure a solar module to the rail by coupling to the frame of the solar module to a rail of the mounting assembly within the slots of the sidewalls. The clips may be secured to the mounting assembly by locking members positioned on a distal end thereof. The clips may establish an electrical grounding connection between the frame of the solar module and the rail.
F16B 5/06 - Joining sheets or plates to one another or to strips or bars parallel to them by means of clamps or clips
H02S 20/20 - Supporting structures directly fixed to an immovable object
F16B 2/22 - Clips, i.e. with gripping action effected solely by the inherent resistance to deformation of the material of the fastening of resilient material, e.g. rubbery material
A solar tracking system is provided and includes a solar array, a support structure configured to support the solar array, a base configured to rotatably support the support structure, and an articulation system configured to articulate the support structure relative to the base. The articulation system includes a gearbox that is coupled to the support structure and an actuator that is configured to extend and retract. The actuator includes a first end portion and a second, opposite end portion, wherein the first end portion is rotatably coupled to the base and the second end portion is coupled to the gearbox. Extension of the actuator causes the support structure to rotate about the base in a first direction and retraction of the actuator causes the support structure to rotate about the based in a second, opposite direction.
A solar tracking system including a plurality of bases, a torque tube supported by the plurality of bases and configured to support a plurality of solar modules, and a drive device operably connected to the torque tube and arranged to translate the torque tube in a direction parallel to its longitudinal axis. The solar tracking system also includes a plurality of helical guides operably connected to the torque tube, and a plurality of cam assemblies, wherein upon linear movement of the torque tube, interaction between the helical guides and cam assemblies causes the torque tube to rotate about its linear axis.
A pier for a solar tracking system includes a bearing housing assembly, a frame, the frame defining an A-profile having a pair of legs and a crown at a center portion thereof, and a mounting bracket, the mounting bracket coupled to a portion of the crown of the frame at a first portion thereof and coupled to a portion of the bearing housing assembly at a second portion thereof.
A solar module mounting bracket assembly includes a rail configured to support a solar module thereon, and a pair of braces. The braces each have a first end portion movably coupled to the rail. The braces are movable relative to the rail between a collapsed configuration and an expanded configuration. In the expanded configuration, the braces cooperatively define a channel dimensioned for receipt of a frame member.
Solar array (1) comprising solar modules (3) distributed in rows (10), each solar module comprising solar collector (5) carried by a single-axis solar tracker (4), a reference solar power plant (2) comprising a central reference solar module and at least one secondary reference solar module, and a piloting unit (7) adapted for:
piloting the angular orientation of the central reference module according to a central reference orientation setpoint corresponding to an initial orientation setpoint,
piloting the orientation of each secondary reference module according to a secondary reference orientation setpoint corresponding to the initial orientation setpoint shifted by a predefined offset angle;
receiving an energy production value from each reference module;
piloting the orientation of the modules, except for the reference modules, by applying the reference orientation setpoint associated to the reference module having the highest production value.
A coupling system for use with a solar tracker includes a support rail defining a channel for receipt of a solar module therein, the support rail including an aperture defined therein that is in open communication with the channel and a clamp assembly selectively coupled to the support rail, a first portion of the clamp assembly configured to receive a portion of a torque tube therein and a second portion of the clamp assembly configured to selectively extend through the aperture of the support rail when the clamp assembly is transitioned from a first, unlocked position, to a second, locked position.
F16M 13/02 - Other supports for positioning apparatus or articles; Means for steadying hand-held apparatus or articles for supporting on, or attaching to, an object, e.g. tree, gate, window-frame, cycle
H02S 20/32 - Supporting structures being movable or adjustable, e.g. for angle adjustment specially adapted for solar tracking
F16B 2/06 - Clamps, i.e. with gripping action effected by positive means other than the inherent resistance to deformation of the material of the fastening external, i.e. with contracting action
A coupling system for use with a solar tracker includes a torque tube coupling defining an arcuate slot therethrough, a mounting bracket couplable to a portion of a pier, and a first fastener, a portion of the first fastener slidably and rotatably received within a portion of the slot to enable polyaxial rotation of the torque tube coupling relative to the mounting bracket.
A common enclosure includes a housing, inverter input connectors and an inverter output connector coupled to the housing, a common DC bus mechanically coupled to the housing and electrically coupled to the inverter input connectors, a common AC bus mechanically coupled to the housing and electrically coupled between the inverter output connector and a power grid connector, a controller mechanically coupled to the housing and electrically coupled to the common DC and AC buses, local controllers coupled to the inverters, decentralized controllers coupled to the local controllers, and a centralized controller in communication with the local controllers. The decentralized controllers generate decentralized control signals for the local controllers based on measured voltages and currents of the electrical power grid and the inverters. The centralized controller transmits centralized control signals to the local controllers to maintain a constant voltage on the common DC bus based on a predicted DC load.
H02J 3/14 - Circuit arrangements for ac mains or ac distribution networks for adjusting voltage in ac networks by changing a characteristic of the network load by switching loads on to, or off from, network, e.g. progressively balanced loading
H02J 13/00 - Circuit arrangements for providing remote indication of network conditions, e.g. an instantaneous record of the open or closed condition of each circuitbreaker in the network; Circuit arrangements for providing remote control of switching means in a power distribution network, e.g. switching in and out of current consumers by using a pulse code signal carried by the network
25.
Battery management architectures for flow batteries
Systems and methods for managing flow batteries utilize a battery management controller (BMC) coupled between a flow battery and a DC/DC converter, which is coupled to an electrical grid or a photovoltaic device via an inverter. The inverter converts an AC voltage to a first DC voltage and the DC/DC converter steps down the first DC voltage to a second DC voltage. The BMC includes a first power route, a second power route, and a current source converter coupled to the second power route. The BMC initializes the flow battery with a third DC voltage using the current source converter until a sensing circuit senses that the voltage of the flow battery has reached a predetermined voltage. The sensing circuit may include a capacitor, which has a small capacitance and is coupled across each cell of the flow battery, coupled in series between two resistors having very large resistances.
A solar tracking system includes a solar array, a support structure configured to support the solar array, a driveshaft coupled to the support structure, a base configured to rotatably support the driveshaft, and an articulation system coupled to the driveshaft and configured to articulate the driveshaft relative to the base. The articulation system includes a gearbox coupled to the driveshaft. The solar tracking system also includes a motor mechanically operably coupled to the gearbox to cause the driveshaft to rotate, and a controller that determines a fault caused by the winding up of the driveshaft, and, in response to determining the fault, shorting the windings of the motor and/or providing power, which is generated by the motor when the unwinding driveshaft drives the rotation of the motor, to a load, such as an energy storage device, a resistive load, and/or a heating element.
In an example, the system has a mechanical isolator comprising an elastic material configured to separate the panel rail from the torque tube cause destructive interference with a natural resonant frequency of the system without the mechanical isolator to reduce a mechanical vibration of the system.
H02S 20/32 - Supporting structures being movable or adjustable, e.g. for angle adjustment specially adapted for solar tracking
F16F 1/36 - Springs made of material having high internal friction
F16M 11/04 - Means for attachment of apparatus; Means allowing adjustment of the apparatus relatively to the stand
F24S 40/80 - Accommodating differential expansion of solar heat collector elements
F24S 25/65 - Fixation means, e.g. fasteners, specially adapted for supporting solar heat collector modules for coupling adjacent supporting elements, e.g. for connecting profiles together
F16F 15/08 - Suppression of vibrations of non-rotating, e.g. reciprocating, systems; Suppression of vibrations of rotating systems by use of members not moving with the rotating system using elastic means with rubber springs
The present disclosure describes an expandable splice configured for reinforcing a tube of a solar owner system, the splice including a top panel, a bottom panel, a first side panel, a second side panel, and at least one beveled corner panel, wherein the first and second side panels are connected to the top and bottom panels either directly or by the at least one beveled corner panel to form a channel therebetween.
A solar tracker, solar array, and method of designing a solar tracker or array including a plurality of piers, a torque tube supported by the piers, each pier having a common reveal from the earth and the torque tube has a relative angle from a first pier to a second pier of between 0.25 and about 0.75 degrees.
F24S 25/615 - Fixation means, e.g. fasteners, specially adapted for supporting solar heat collector modules for fixing to the ground or to building structures for fixing to protruding parts of buildings, e.g. to corrugations or to standing seams
H02S 30/00 - Structural details of PV modules other than those related to light conversion
H02S 20/30 - Supporting structures being movable or adjustable, e.g. for angle adjustment
F24S 25/60 - Fixation means, e.g. fasteners, specially adapted for supporting solar heat collector modules
31.
FASTENING ASSEMBLY FOR SOLAR POWER SYSTEMS AND TOOLS THEREOF
A coupling system for use with a solar tracker includes a support flange, a swivel flange rotatably supported on the support flange, an articulation joint interposed between each of the support flange and the swivel flange and rotatably supported by each of the support flange and the swivel flange, wherein opposed first and second end portions of the articulation joint are configured to be operably coupled to a respective first and second torque tube, and at least one locking fastener selectively coupled to a portion of the support flange and a portion of the swivel flange, the at least one locking fastener configured to selectively inhibit rotation of the swivel flange relative to the support flange.
F24S 30/45 - Arrangements for moving or orienting solar heat collector modules for rotary movement with two rotation axes
F24S 30/455 - Arrangements for moving or orienting solar heat collector modules for rotary movement with two rotation axes with horizontal primary axis
F24S 30/458 - Arrangements for moving or orienting solar heat collector modules for rotary movement with two rotation axes with inclined primary axis
F24S 30/00 - Arrangements for moving or orienting solar heat collector modules
A solar module mounting bracket system including a plurality of solar modules including mounting slots formed in a sidewall of the solar module, a torque tube configured to support the solar modules such that they can be rotated, a plurality of mounting brackets configured for integration with the torque tube and to which the plurality of solar modules are mounted, at least one first retainer assembly connected to one of the plurality of mounting brackets, the first retainer assembly including a through bolt, a spring, a mounting tab, and nut. When a solar module is placed on the mounting bracket and supported by the torque tube the mounting tab retainer assembly is received in the mounting slot of the solar module.
A docking station for use with a solar tracking system includes a frame configured to selectively support solar cleaning equipment thereon and a mounting bracket operably coupled to a portion of the frame. The mounting bracket maintains a gap between adjacent edges of the frame and an adjacent solar module, and the frame includes a width that approximates a width of the solar module.
A bifacial solar module with enhanced power output including first and second transparent support layers, a plurality of electrically interconnected bifacial solar cells arranged between the transparent support layers with gaps between one or more of the interconnected solar cells and edges of the first and second transparent support layers, the bifacial solar cells having a first side directly exposed to solar radiation and a second side opposite the first. The bifacial solar module further includes one or more micro-structured reflective tapes positioned coincidentally with the gaps and attached to a surface of the second support layer such that light passing through the second support layer is reflected back into the second support layer at angles such that light reflecting from the tape is absorbed by either the first or second side of the bifacial solar cells.
H02S 20/30 - Supporting structures being movable or adjustable, e.g. for angle adjustment
H02S 40/36 - Electrical components characterised by special electrical interconnection means between two or more PV modules, e.g. electrical module-to-module connection
A solar tracker apparatus includes an adjustable hanger assembly that has a clam shell hanger assembly. The clam shell hanger assembly may hold a torque tube comprising a plurality of torque tubes configured together in a continuous length from a first end to a second end. A center of mass of the solar tracker apparatus may be aligned with a center of rotation of the torque tubes, in order to reduce a load of a drive device operably coupled to the torque tube. Solar modules may be coupled to the torque tubes. The solar tracker includes an energy system that includes solar panel, a DC to DC converter, a battery, and a micro-controller. The energy system may facilitate full operation movement of the tracker apparatus without any external power lines.
H01L 31/042 - PV modules or arrays of single PV cells
H02J 7/35 - Parallel operation in networks using both storage and other dc sources, e.g. providing buffering with light sensitive cells
H02S 40/32 - Electrical components comprising DC/AC inverter means associated with the PV module itself, e.g. AC modules
H02S 40/34 - Electrical components comprising specially adapted electrical connection means to be structurally associated with the PV module, e.g. junction boxes
H02S 40/38 - Energy storage means, e.g. batteries, structurally associated with PV modules
F24S 30/00 - Arrangements for moving or orienting solar heat collector modules
A method of controlling a solar array including receiving current and voltage data from a plurality of solar modules of the solar array, calculating a diffuse fraction irradiance for the plurality of solar modules, mapping the diffuse fraction irradiance for the plurality of solar modules, generating a digital image of light conditions in the solar array based on the mapped diffuse fraction irradiance, defining zones within the array based on the light conditions in the digital image, determining a zone-specific solar tracker angle for each zone based on mapped diffuse fraction irradiance, transmitting the zone-specific solar tracker angle to a computing device associated with each solar tracker in the solar array, and driving the solar trackers of each zone such that the solar trackers that make up each zone are oriented to substantially the same angle.
Systems and methods integrate advanced solar tracker, battery, inverter, and software technologies to improve performance, plant output, and costs. The systems may incorporate an advanced vanadium flow battery (VFB) that is DC-voltage (DV)-coupled to photovoltaic (PV) arrays for high, round-trip efficiency. The systems incorporate a DC architecture that optimizes performance for commercial, industrial, agricultural, and utility applications. A distributed direct current (DC) power system includes a centralized, single-stage inverter; PV arrays; maximum power point tracking (MPPT) converters coupled between the PV arrays and the centralized, single-stage inverter; batteries; and DC-DC battery converters (DCBCs) coupled to the batteries. The MPPT converters maximize solar power production by the PV arrays and minimize mismatch between the PV arrays. The DCBCs manage charge and discharge of the batteries, enable the interconnection of the PV arrays and the batteries, and supply a constant medium voltage to the central inverter.
H02S 40/32 - Electrical components comprising DC/AC inverter means associated with the PV module itself, e.g. AC modules
H02S 40/36 - Electrical components characterised by special electrical interconnection means between two or more PV modules, e.g. electrical module-to-module connection
H02S 40/38 - Energy storage means, e.g. batteries, structurally associated with PV modules
H02J 3/32 - Arrangements for balancing the load in a network by storage of energy using batteries with converting means
H02J 3/46 - Controlling the sharing of output between the generators, converters, or transformers
H02J 3/38 - Arrangements for parallelly feeding a single network by two or more generators, converters or transformers
H02J 7/00 - Circuit arrangements for charging or depolarising batteries or for supplying loads from batteries
A clamp assembly for use with a solar module includes a first clamping arm operably coupled to a first portion of a solar module, a second clamping arm operably coupled to a second portion of the solar module and operably coupled to the first clamping arm and disposed in juxtaposed relation thereto, and a fastener operably coupled to a respective portion of each of the first and second clamping arms. The fastener is configured to draw each of the first and second clamping arms towards one another from a first, open position, where the solar module is free to move relative to first and second clamping arms to a second, closed position, where the solar module is inhibited from moving relative to the first and second clamping arms.
A solar tracking system includes a solar array, support beams that support the solar array, a torque tube coupled to the support beams, a base that rotatably supports the torque tube, and an articulation system that rotates the torque tube relative to the base. The articulation system includes an outer tube, a screw rod, and a nut and/or inner tube that rotates and translates along a length of the screw rod as the screw rod rotates. The interior portion of the outer tube includes helical grooves and the exterior portion of the nut or inner tube includes ridges or rollers that mate with the helical grooves, which cause the nut and/or inner tube to rotate as the nut and/or inner tube is translated along a length of the screw rod when the screw rod is rotated by the motor.
A solar tracking system comprises multiple solar panel modules forming a grid of solar panel modules, wherein the multiple solar panel modules are orientatable to a solar source independently of each other; and a control system configured to orient each of the multiple solar panel modules to the solar source independently of each other based on a performance model to optimize an energy output from the grid of solar panel modules, wherein the performance model predicts an energy output from the grid of solar panel modules based on a topography of the area containing the grid of solar panel modules and weather conditions local to each of the solar panel modules.
G01S 3/786 - Systems for determining direction or deviation from predetermined direction using adjustment of orientation of directivity characteristics of a detector or detector system to give a desired condition of signal derived from that detector or detector system the desired condition being maintained automatically
G05D 3/10 - Control of position or direction without using feedback
A coupling system for use with a solar tracker includes a support flange, a swivel flange rotatably supported on the support flange, an articulation joint interposed between each of the support flange and the swivel flange and rotatably supported by each of the support flange and the swivel flange, wherein opposed first and second end portions of the articulation joint are configured to be operably coupled to a respective first and second torque tube, and at least one locking fastener selectively coupled to a portion of the support flange and a portion of the swivel flange, the at least one locking fastener configured to selectively inhibit rotation of the swivel flange relative to the support flange.
F24S 30/455 - Arrangements for moving or orienting solar heat collector modules for rotary movement with two rotation axes with horizontal primary axis
F24S 30/458 - Arrangements for moving or orienting solar heat collector modules for rotary movement with two rotation axes with inclined primary axis
F24S 30/00 - Arrangements for moving or orienting solar heat collector modules
The present disclosure describes a solar power system including rails, solar modules, and a plurality of adjustable clips to secure the solar modules to the rails. The clips include at least a base member, an elastomeric support member, a bracket member, and an alignment member configured to secure the various members of the clip together. The adjustable clips are configured to slide within a slot defined through a portion of a surface of a rail and including a recessed edge thereby allowing the rail system to accommodate solar modules of varying dimensions.
A method for controlling the orientation of a solar module (1) comprising a single-axis solar tracker (2) orientable about an axis of rotation (A), and a photovoltaic device (3) supported by said tracker and having upper and lower photoactive faces, comprising the followings steps:
A method for controlling the orientation of a solar module (1) comprising a single-axis solar tracker (2) orientable about an axis of rotation (A), and a photovoltaic device (3) supported by said tracker and having upper and lower photoactive faces, comprising the followings steps:
measurement of a distribution of the solar luminance called incident luminance originating from the incident solar radiation coming from the sky to reach the upper face, said distribution being established according to several elevation angles;
A method for controlling the orientation of a solar module (1) comprising a single-axis solar tracker (2) orientable about an axis of rotation (A), and a photovoltaic device (3) supported by said tracker and having upper and lower photoactive faces, comprising the followings steps:
measurement of a distribution of the solar luminance called incident luminance originating from the incident solar radiation coming from the sky to reach the upper face, said distribution being established according to several elevation angles;
measurement of a distribution of the solar luminance called reflected luminance originating from the albedo solar radiation corresponding to the reflection of the solar radiation on the ground to reach the lower face, said distribution being established according to several elevation angles;
A method for controlling the orientation of a solar module (1) comprising a single-axis solar tracker (2) orientable about an axis of rotation (A), and a photovoltaic device (3) supported by said tracker and having upper and lower photoactive faces, comprising the followings steps:
measurement of a distribution of the solar luminance called incident luminance originating from the incident solar radiation coming from the sky to reach the upper face, said distribution being established according to several elevation angles;
measurement of a distribution of the solar luminance called reflected luminance originating from the albedo solar radiation corresponding to the reflection of the solar radiation on the ground to reach the lower face, said distribution being established according to several elevation angles;
determination of an optimum orientation considering the measurements of said distributions of the incident and reflected solar luminance;
A method for controlling the orientation of a solar module (1) comprising a single-axis solar tracker (2) orientable about an axis of rotation (A), and a photovoltaic device (3) supported by said tracker and having upper and lower photoactive faces, comprising the followings steps:
measurement of a distribution of the solar luminance called incident luminance originating from the incident solar radiation coming from the sky to reach the upper face, said distribution being established according to several elevation angles;
measurement of a distribution of the solar luminance called reflected luminance originating from the albedo solar radiation corresponding to the reflection of the solar radiation on the ground to reach the lower face, said distribution being established according to several elevation angles;
determination of an optimum orientation considering the measurements of said distributions of the incident and reflected solar luminance;
servo-control of the orientation of the module on said optimum orientation.
G01S 3/786 - Systems for determining direction or deviation from predetermined direction using adjustment of orientation of directivity characteristics of a detector or detector system to give a desired condition of signal derived from that detector or detector system the desired condition being maintained automatically
H02S 20/32 - Supporting structures being movable or adjustable, e.g. for angle adjustment specially adapted for solar tracking
H02S 20/10 - Supporting structures directly fixed to the ground
F24S 23/70 - Arrangements for concentrating solar rays for solar heat collectors with reflectors
45.
MULTI-POWER SOURCE SYSTEMS FOR PHOTOVOLTAIC BATTERY CONTROL
A multi-power source system including a first power source, a second power source in a parallel with the first power source, and a diode preventing power from the second power source to drive the first power source, but permitting the first power source to charge the second power source. The system also includes a controller operably coupled to both the first and second power sources, and a plurality of field effect transistor (FETs) arranged in series with one or more of the first power source, the second power source, and the load, wherein controller can switch the plurality of FETs to enable the first power source to drive the load or the second power source to drive the load.
In an example, the present invention provides a solar tracker apparatus. In an example, the apparatus comprises a center of mass with an adjustable hanger assembly configured with a clam shell clamp assembly on the adjustable hanger assembly and a cylindrical torque tube comprising a plurality of torque tubes configured together in a continuous length from a first end to a second end such that the center of mass is aligned with a center of rotation of the cylindrical torque tubes to reduce a load of a drive motor operably coupled to the cylindrical torque tube. Further details of the present example, among others, can be found throughout the present specification and more particularly below.
H01L 31/052 - Cooling means directly associated or integrated with the PV cell, e.g. integrated Peltier elements for active cooling or heat sinks directly associated with the PV cells
F24S 25/10 - Arrangement of stationary mountings or supports for solar heat collector modules extending in directions away from a supporting surface
F24S 25/70 - Arrangement of stationary mountings or supports for solar heat collector modules with means for compensating mounting tolerances
piloting the orientation of the modules, except for the reference modules, by applying the reference orientation setpoint associated to the reference module having the highest production value.
In an example, the present invention provides a solar tracker apparatus configured with an off-set drive assembly. In an example, the apparatus has an inner race structure, which has a cylindrical region coupled to a main body region, the main body comprising an off-set open region. The cylindrical region is an annular sleeve structure coupled to the main body region, which occupies the spatial region within the cylindrical region. In an example, the apparatus has an outer race structure coupled to enclose the inner race structure, configured to couple the inner race structure to allow the inner race structure to move in a rotational manner about a spatial arc region; and configured to allow the inner race structure to pivot about a region normal to a direction of the spatial arc region. In an example, the solar tracker has a clamp assembly that is configured to pivot a torque tube.
G01S 3/786 - Systems for determining direction or deviation from predetermined direction using adjustment of orientation of directivity characteristics of a detector or detector system to give a desired condition of signal derived from that detector or detector system the desired condition being maintained automatically
F16H 19/08 - Gearings comprising essentially only toothed gears or friction members and not capable of conveying indefinitely-continuing rotary motion for interconverting rotary motion and oscillating motion
Methods and systems of managing dynamic response to wind in a solar tracker system are provided. The method includes determining a wind speed, comparing the wind speed to a predetermined threshold value to determine if the wind speed equals or exceeds the predetermined threshold, positioning a windward most solar tracker to a predetermined angle based on the comparing, and positioning a leeward most solar tracker to the predetermined angle based on the comparing. The solar trackers are positioned at the predetermined angle at a predetermined interval starting at the windward most solar tracker and the remaining solar trackers remain in a normal operating condition.
A solar tracking system is provided and includes a solar array, a support structure configured to support the solar array, a base configured to rotatably support the support structure, and an articulation system configured to articulate the support structure relative to the base. The articulation system includes a gearbox that is coupled to the support structure and an actuator that is configured to extend and retract. The actuator includes a first end portion and a second, opposite end portion, wherein the first end portion is rotatably coupled to the base and the second end portion is coupled to the gearbox. Extension of the actuator causes the support structure to rotate about the base in a first direction and retraction of the actuator causes the support structure to rotate about the based in a second, opposite direction.
A power converter converts a medium-voltage output from a solar module to an appropriate voltage to power a solar tracker system. The power converter includes a voltage divider having at least two legs, a first semiconductor switch subassembly coupled in parallel with a first leg of the voltage divider, and a second semiconductor switch subassembly coupled in parallel with a second leg of the voltage divider. The power converter may be a unidirectional or a bidirectional power converter. In implementations, the signals for driving the semiconductor switches of the first and second semiconductor switch subassemblies may be shifted out of phase from each other. In implementations, if the bus voltages to the semiconductor switches are not balanced, the pulse width of the driving signal of the semiconductor switch supplied with the higher bus voltage is decreased for at least one cycle.
H02M 3/158 - Conversion of dc power input into dc power output without intermediate conversion into ac by static converters using discharge tubes with control electrode or semiconductor devices with control electrode using devices of a triode or transistor type requiring continuous application of a control signal using semiconductor devices only with automatic control of output voltage or current, e.g. switching regulators including plural semiconductor devices as final control devices for a single load
H02M 3/06 - Conversion of dc power input into dc power output without intermediate conversion into ac by static converters using resistors or capacitors, e.g. potential divider
G05F 1/70 - Regulating power factor; Regulating reactive current or power
G05F 1/56 - Regulating voltage or current wherein the variable actually regulated by the final control device is dc using semiconductor devices in series with the load as final control devices
G05F 1/59 - Regulating voltage or current wherein the variable actually regulated by the final control device is dc using semiconductor devices in series with the load as final control devices including plural semiconductor devices as final control devices for a single load
H02M 1/088 - Circuits specially adapted for the generation of control voltages for semiconductor devices incorporated in static converters for the simultaneous control of series or parallel connected semiconductor devices
H02J 7/35 - Parallel operation in networks using both storage and other dc sources, e.g. providing buffering with light sensitive cells
H02S 20/32 - Supporting structures being movable or adjustable, e.g. for angle adjustment specially adapted for solar tracking
H02P 27/08 - Arrangements or methods for the control of AC motors characterised by the kind of supply voltage using variable-frequency supply voltage, e.g. inverter or converter supply voltage using dc to ac converters or inverters with pulse width modulation
H02S 40/38 - Energy storage means, e.g. batteries, structurally associated with PV modules
H02S 40/32 - Electrical components comprising DC/AC inverter means associated with the PV module itself, e.g. AC modules
G05F 1/595 - Regulating voltage or current wherein the variable actually regulated by the final control device is dc using semiconductor devices in series with the load as final control devices including plural semiconductor devices as final control devices for a single load semiconductor devices connected in series
H02M 1/00 - APPARATUS FOR CONVERSION BETWEEN AC AND AC, BETWEEN AC AND DC, OR BETWEEN DC AND DC, AND FOR USE WITH MAINS OR SIMILAR POWER SUPPLY SYSTEMS; CONVERSION OF DC OR AC INPUT POWER INTO SURGE OUTPUT POWER; CONTROL OR REGULATION THEREOF - Details of apparatus for conversion
H02M 3/00 - Conversion of dc power input into dc power output
H02M 3/335 - Conversion of dc power input into dc power output with intermediate conversion into ac by static converters using discharge tubes with control electrode or semiconductor devices with control electrode to produce the intermediate ac using devices of a triode or a transistor type requiring continuous application of a control signal using semiconductor devices only
52.
Systems and methods for photovoltaic direct current (DC) bus control
Solar power systems and methods utilize DC power transmission and centralized power inversion. The solar power systems include a photovoltaic (PV) bus system and a fixed bus system. The PV system utilizes a control mode handoff control method, which includes determining that a local maximum power point tracking (MPPT) control is enabled; in response to determining that the local MPPT control is enabled, starting an MPPT mode timer; performing local MPPT; determining that the MPPT mode timer is greater than a predetermined period; and, in response to determining that the MPPT mode timer is greater than a predetermined period, handing off MPPT control to the next MPPT controller. The distributed MPPT control method may include sequential MPPT control, adaptive ΔV MPPT control, and/or power limiting control. The fixed bus system includes PV string-level MPPT controllers and a fixed DC input central inverter or multiple fixed DC modular inverters.
A solar module mounting bracket assembly includes a rail configured to support a solar module thereon, and a pair of braces. The braces each have a first end portion movably coupled to the rail. The braces are movable relative to the rail between a collapsed configuration and an expanded configuration. In the expanded configuration, the braces cooperatively define a channel dimensioned for receipt of a frame member.
F24S 25/65 - Fixation means, e.g. fasteners, specially adapted for supporting solar heat collector modules for coupling adjacent supporting elements, e.g. for connecting profiles together
A solar tracker including a drive device, a D-shaped torque tube section configured to be rotated by the drive device, and at least one bearing configured to receive the D-shaped torque tube section, the D-shaped torque tube being suspended between the drive device and the bearing.
A pier for a solar tracking system includes a bearing housing assembly, a frame, the frame defining an A-profile having a pair of legs and a crown at a center portion thereof, and a mounting bracket, the mounting bracket coupled to a portion of the crown of the frame at a first portion thereof and coupled to a portion of the bearing housing assembly at a second portion thereof.
A solar tracker including a torque tube, a plurality of bearings configured to receive the torque tube, a plurality of piers each configured to receive one of the plurality of bearings, and a lock-out device mounted on one of the plurality of piers and operatively associated with at least one of the plurality of bearings, the lock out device configured to periodically engage and disengage openings formed in the bearings to limit movement of the torque tube and to transfer load from the torque tube to the pier on which it is mounted.
F24S 25/615 - Fixation means, e.g. fasteners, specially adapted for supporting solar heat collector modules for fixing to the ground or to building structures for fixing to protruding parts of buildings, e.g. to corrugations or to standing seams
H02S 30/00 - Structural details of PV modules other than those related to light conversion
H02S 20/30 - Supporting structures being movable or adjustable, e.g. for angle adjustment
F24S 25/60 - Fixation means, e.g. fasteners, specially adapted for supporting solar heat collector modules
A solar tracker bearing and a solar tracker incorporating the bearing, the bearing including at least one rotatable part, the rotatable part including a notch for receiving a torque tube, a slot, formed in the rotatable part and extending below the notch, the slot defining an arc having multiple radii, at least one engagement member configured to be received in the slot, and at least one base configured to secure the engagement member in the slot and to secure the bearing to a pier.
H02S 20/32 - Supporting structures being movable or adjustable, e.g. for angle adjustment specially adapted for solar tracking
F16M 11/10 - Means for attachment of apparatus; Means allowing adjustment of the apparatus relatively to the stand allowing pivoting around a horizontal axis
A solar tracker including at least one pair of piers configured to be secured in the ground and defining a span between the pair, a bearing supported on the pier, and a torque tube supported in the bearing such that the bearing enables rotation of the torque tube, the torque tube including a double wall thickness area, wherein the double wall thickness area limits deflection of the torque tube along the span.
A solar tracking system is provided and includes a solar array, a support structure configured to support the solar array, a base configured to rotatably support the support structure, and an articulation system configured to articulate the support structure relative to the base. The articulation system includes a gearbox that is coupled to the support structure and an actuator that is configured to extend and retract. The actuator includes a first end portion and a second, opposite end portion, wherein the first end portion is rotatably coupled to the base and the second end portion is coupled to the gearbox. Extension of the actuator causes the support structure to rotate about the base in a first direction and retraction of the actuator causes the support structure to rotate about the based in a second, opposite direction.
A distributed direct current power system including an inverter to invert DC to alternating current (AC), a plurality of photovoltaic (PV) strings, and a plurality of maximum power point tracking (MPPT) converters coupled between the plurality of photovoltaic (PV) strings, respectively, and the central inverter, the plurality of MPPT converters configured to maximize solar power production by the plurality of PV strings and minimize mismatch between the plurality of PV strings. The system also including a plurality of batteries, a plurality of DC-DC battery converters (DCBC) coupled to the plurality of batteries and configured to manage charge and discharge of the plurality of batteries, enable interconnection of the plurality of PV strings and the plurality of batteries, and supply a constant medium DC voltage to the central inverter, and a hydrogen generation system in electrical communication with the inverter, the photovoltaic strings, or the batteries.
A solar tracker system comprising a plurality of on sun trackers and a plurality of off sun tracker. Each tracker is selectively adjusted to achieve a desired power output of the solar power plant system in an example.
The present disclosure relates to a solar power system including at least one mounting assembly including a rail, at least one framed solar module, and at least one clip to secure the solar module to the rail. The clip includes at least a pair of sidewalls extending from a top plate or rear wall, each sidewall including a slot, a recess, and a locking member, at least one of the slot, recess, or both include a serrated edge. The clips may secure a solar module to the rail by coupling to the frame of the solar module to a rail of the mounting assembly within the slots of the sidewalls. The clips may be secured to the mounting assembly by locking members positioned on a distal end thereof. The clips may establish an electrical grounding connection between the frame of the solar module and the rail.
F16B 5/06 - Joining sheets or plates to one another or to strips or bars parallel to them by means of clamps or clips
H02S 20/20 - Supporting structures directly fixed to an immovable object
F16B 2/22 - Clips, i.e. with gripping action effected solely by the inherent resistance to deformation of the material of the fastening of resilient material, e.g. rubbery material
65.
Radial cam helix with 0 degree stow for solar tracker
A solar tracking system including a plurality of bases, a torque tube supported by the plurality of bases and configured to support a plurality of solar modules, and a drive device operably connected to the torque tube and arranged to translate the torque tube in a direction parallel to its longitudinal axis. The solar tracking system also includes a plurality of helical guides operably connected to the torque tube, and a plurality of cam assemblies, wherein upon linear movement of the torque tube, interaction between the helical guides and cam assemblies causes the torque tube to rotate about its linear axis.
H02S 20/32 - Supporting structures being movable or adjustable, e.g. for angle adjustment specially adapted for solar tracking
F24S 40/80 - Accommodating differential expansion of solar heat collector elements
F24S 25/65 - Fixation means, e.g. fasteners, specially adapted for supporting solar heat collector modules for coupling adjacent supporting elements, e.g. for connecting profiles together
F24S 30/00 - Arrangements for moving or orienting solar heat collector modules
F24S 25/12 - Arrangement of stationary mountings or supports for solar heat collector modules extending in directions away from a supporting surface using posts in combination with upper profiles
In an example, the solar tracker has a clamp assembly configured to pivot a torque tube. In an example, the assembly has a support structure configured as a frame having configured by a first and second anchoring region. In an example, the support structure is configured from a thickness of metal material. In an example, the support structure is configured in an upright manner, and has a major plane region. In an example, the assembly has a pivot device configured on the support structure, a torque tube suspending on the pivot device and aligned within an opening of the support, and configured to be normal to the plane region. In an example, the torque tube is configured on the pivot device to move about an arc in a first direction or in a second direction such that the first direction is in a direction opposite to the second direction.
F16L 3/02 - Supports for pipes, cables or protective tubing, e.g. hangers, holders, clamps, cleats, clips, brackets partly surrounding the pipes, cables or protective tubing
F16M 13/02 - Other supports for positioning apparatus or articles; Means for steadying hand-held apparatus or articles for supporting on, or attaching to, an object, e.g. tree, gate, window-frame, cycle
F24S 25/70 - Arrangement of stationary mountings or supports for solar heat collector modules with means for compensating mounting tolerances
A solar tracking system comprises multiple solar panel modules forming a grid of solar panel modules, wherein the multiple solar panel modules are movable relative to a solar source independently of each other; and a control system configured to orient each of the multiple solar panel modules to the solar source independently of each other based on a performance model to optimize an energy output from the grid of solar panel modules, wherein the performance model predicts an energy output from the grid of solar panel modules based on a topography of the area containing the grid of solar panel modules and weather conditions local to each of the solar panel modules.
G05D 3/10 - Control of position or direction without using feedback
H02S 20/32 - Supporting structures being movable or adjustable, e.g. for angle adjustment specially adapted for solar tracking
H02S 40/38 - Energy storage means, e.g. batteries, structurally associated with PV modules
G01S 3/786 - Systems for determining direction or deviation from predetermined direction using adjustment of orientation of directivity characteristics of a detector or detector system to give a desired condition of signal derived from that detector or detector system the desired condition being maintained automatically
In an example, the solar tracker has a clamp assembly that is configured to pivot a torque tube. In an example, the assembly has a support structure configured as a frame having configured by a first anchoring region and a second anchoring region. In an example, the support structure is configured from a thickness of metal material. In an example, the support structure is configured in an upright manner, and has a major plane region. In an example, the assembly has a pivot device configured on the support structure and a torque tube suspending on the pivot device and aligned within an opening of the support and configured to be normal to the plane region. In an example, the torque tube is configured on the pivot device to move about an arc in a first direction or in a second direction such that the first direction is in a direction opposite to the second direction.
F16L 3/02 - Supports for pipes, cables or protective tubing, e.g. hangers, holders, clamps, cleats, clips, brackets partly surrounding the pipes, cables or protective tubing
F16M 13/02 - Other supports for positioning apparatus or articles; Means for steadying hand-held apparatus or articles for supporting on, or attaching to, an object, e.g. tree, gate, window-frame, cycle
F24S 25/70 - Arrangement of stationary mountings or supports for solar heat collector modules with means for compensating mounting tolerances
In an example, the present invention provides a solar tracker apparatus. In an example, the apparatus comprises a center of mass with an adjustable hanger assembly configured with a clam shell clamp assembly on the adjustable hanger assembly and a cylindrical torque tube comprising a plurality of torque tubes configured together in a continuous length from a first end to a second end such that the center of mass is aligned with a center of rotation of the cylindrical torque tubes to reduce a load of a drive motor operably coupled to the cylindrical torque tube. Further details of the present example, among others, can be found throughout the present specification and more particularly below.
H01L 31/052 - Cooling means directly associated or integrated with the PV cell, e.g. integrated Peltier elements for active cooling or heat sinks directly associated with the PV cells
F24S 30/00 - Arrangements for moving or orienting solar heat collector modules
A solar tracker apparatus includes an adjustable hanger assembly that has a clam shell hanger assembly. The clam shell hanger assembly may hold a torque tube comprising a plurality of torque tubes configured together in a continuous length from a first end to a second end. A center of mass of the solar tracker apparatus may be aligned with a center of rotation of the torque tubes, in order to reduce a load of a drive device operably coupled to the torque tube. Solar modules may be coupled to the torque tubes. The solar tracker includes an energy system that includes solar panel, a DC to DC converter, a battery, and a micro-controller. The energy system may facilitate full operation movement of the tracker apparatus without any external power lines.
H02S 20/32 - Supporting structures being movable or adjustable, e.g. for angle adjustment specially adapted for solar tracking
H02S 40/32 - Electrical components comprising DC/AC inverter means associated with the PV module itself, e.g. AC modules
H02S 40/38 - Energy storage means, e.g. batteries, structurally associated with PV modules
H02S 40/34 - Electrical components comprising specially adapted electrical connection means to be structurally associated with the PV module, e.g. junction boxes
H01L 31/042 - PV modules or arrays of single PV cells
71.
DC/DC converter for distributed storage and solar systems
A multi-power distributed storage system including a first power source; a second power source electrically connected to a common bus with the first power source; a single input port inverter electrically connected to the common bus. The system including a controller configured to communicate with at least the second power source, and the single input port inverter. The second power source including a plurality of battery banks and a plurality of bi-directional DC/DC converters configured to charge and discharge the plurality of battery banks and provide DC to the single input port inverter.
H02J 7/00 - Circuit arrangements for charging or depolarising batteries or for supplying loads from batteries
G05B 19/045 - Programme control other than numerical control, i.e. in sequence controllers or logic controllers using logic state machines, consisting only of a memory or a programmable logic device containing the logic for the controlled machine and in which the state of its outputs is dependent on the state of its inputs or part of its own output states, e.g
H02J 3/38 - Arrangements for parallelly feeding a single network by two or more generators, converters or transformers
In an example, the present invention provides a solar tracker apparatus. In an example, the apparatus comprises a center of mass with an adjustable hanger assembly configured with a clam shell clamp assembly on the adjustable hanger assembly and a cylindrical torque tube comprising a plurality of torque tubes configured together in a continuous length from a first end to a second end such that the center of mass is aligned with a center of rotation of the cylindrical torque tubes to reduce a load of a drive motor operably coupled to the cylindrical torque tube. Further details of the present example, among others, can be found throughout the present specification and more particularly below.
H02S 20/32 - Supporting structures being movable or adjustable, e.g. for angle adjustment specially adapted for solar tracking
F24S 25/33 - Arrangement of stationary mountings or supports for solar heat collector modules using elongate rigid mounting elements extending substantially along the mounting surface, e.g. for covering buildings with solar heat collectors forming substantially planar assemblies, e.g. of coplanar or stacked profiles
F24S 25/10 - Arrangement of stationary mountings or supports for solar heat collector modules extending in directions away from a supporting surface
F24S 25/70 - Arrangement of stationary mountings or supports for solar heat collector modules with means for compensating mounting tolerances
H01L 31/054 - Optical elements directly associated or integrated with the PV cell, e.g. light-reflecting means or light-concentrating means
H02S 20/10 - Supporting structures directly fixed to the ground
F24S 25/65 - Fixation means, e.g. fasteners, specially adapted for supporting solar heat collector modules for coupling adjacent supporting elements, e.g. for connecting profiles together
73.
Sensing and feedback for row on sun tracking method and system
A solar tracker system comprising a plurality of on sun trackers and a plurality of off sun tracker. Each tracker is selectively adjusted to achieve a desired power output of the solar power plant system in an example.
e) servo-controlling the orientation of the solar tracker (1) according to the prior evolution of the optimum inclination angle and depending on the future evolution of the optimum inclination angle.
The present invention finds application in the field of solar trackers.
F24S 50/80 - Arrangements for controlling solar heat collectors for controlling collection or absorption of solar radiation
F24S 50/00 - Arrangements for controlling solar heat collectors
F24S 25/12 - Arrangement of stationary mountings or supports for solar heat collector modules extending in directions away from a supporting surface using posts in combination with upper profiles
G05B 15/02 - Systems controlled by a computer electric
75.
Systems and methods for split-cell and multi-panel photovoltaic tracking control
Split-cell and multi-panel photovoltaic backtracking control systems and methods allow for increased total power generation during low sun elevation conditions by shading a percentage of panel modules, thereby allowing for a lower angle of incidence on unshaded modules. The control systems and methods involve determining a sun elevation angle, a traditional backtracking angle, a split-cell or multi-panel backtracking angle, a single-cell or single-panel relative light transmission (RLT) based on the single-cell or single-panel backtracking angle, and a split-cell or multi-panel RLT based on the split-cell or multi-panel backtracking angle. If twice the single-cell or single-panel RLT is greater than the split-cell or multi-panel RLT, the split-cell or multi-panel backtracking angle is used; otherwise, the single-cell or single-panel backtracking angle is used. The control systems and methods may further involve determining a diffuse fraction index (DFI) and, if the DFI is greater than a DFI limit, using a DFI tracking angle.
A testing platform tests an electrical and mechanical system such as an HVAC unit according to an algorithm that reduces the total testing time of the components of the system, while ensuring the safety of the system during system-wide testing. The platform uses constraints that are checked both before and during the testing to ensure that HVAC operating conditions are acceptable for starting and maintaining component tests. Preferably, the platform uses finite-state machines for each device to organize the component tests, allowing for monitoring of constraints and starting, pausing, and stopping component tests. Preferably, total test execution time is reduced by running component tests in parallel, running component tests based on loads of the components, or combinations of both.
F24F 11/30 - Control or safety arrangements for purposes related to the operation of the system, e.g. for safety or monitoring
F24F 11/48 - Control or safety arrangements for purposes related to the operation of the system, e.g. for safety or monitoring prior to normal operation, e.g. pre-heating or pre-cooling
F24F 11/49 - Control or safety arrangements for purposes related to the operation of the system, e.g. for safety or monitoring ensuring correct operation, e.g. by trial operation or configuration checks
F24F 11/52 - Indication arrangements, e.g. displays
F24F 11/61 - Control or safety arrangements characterised by user interfaces or communication using timers
d) servo-controlling the orientation of the solar tracker by applying the orientation setpoint value associated to said cloud coverage model retained during step c).
The present invention finds application in the field of solar trackers.
H02S 20/32 - Supporting structures being movable or adjustable, e.g. for angle adjustment specially adapted for solar tracking
F24S 50/20 - Arrangements for controlling solar heat collectors for tracking
G01S 3/786 - Systems for determining direction or deviation from predetermined direction using adjustment of orientation of directivity characteristics of a detector or detector system to give a desired condition of signal derived from that detector or detector system the desired condition being maintained automatically
G05D 3/10 - Control of position or direction without using feedback
H02S 50/00 - Monitoring or testing of PV systems, e.g. load balancing or fault identification
d) servo-controlling the orientation of the solar tracker by applying the orientation setpoint value associated to said cloud coverage model retained during step c).
The present invention finds application in the field of solar trackers.
H02S 20/32 - Supporting structures being movable or adjustable, e.g. for angle adjustment specially adapted for solar tracking
F24S 50/20 - Arrangements for controlling solar heat collectors for tracking
G01S 3/786 - Systems for determining direction or deviation from predetermined direction using adjustment of orientation of directivity characteristics of a detector or detector system to give a desired condition of signal derived from that detector or detector system the desired condition being maintained automatically
G05D 3/10 - Control of position or direction without using feedback
H02S 50/00 - Monitoring or testing of PV systems, e.g. load balancing or fault identification
piloting the orientation of the modules, except for the reference modules, by applying the reference orientation setpoint associated to the reference module having the highest production value.
servo-controlling the orientation of the solar tracker according to the prior evolution of the optimum inclination angle and depending on the future evolution of the optimum inclination angle.
F24S 50/80 - Arrangements for controlling solar heat collectors for controlling collection or absorption of solar radiation
F24S 25/12 - Arrangement of stationary mountings or supports for solar heat collector modules extending in directions away from a supporting surface using posts in combination with upper profiles
G05B 15/02 - Systems controlled by a computer electric
F24S 50/00 - Arrangements for controlling solar heat collectors
81.
Method for controlling the orientation of a solar module with two photoactive faces
A method for controlling the orientation of a solar module including a single-axis solar tracker orientable about an axis of rotation, and a photovoltaic device supported by said tracker and having upper and lower photoactive faces, including: measurement of a distribution of the solar luminance called incident luminance originating from the incident solar radiation coming from the sky to reach the upper face, said distribution being established according to several elevation angles; measurement of a distribution of the solar luminance called reflected luminance originating from the albedo solar radiation corresponding to the reflection of the solar radiation on the ground to reach the lower face, said distribution being established according to several elevation angles; determination of an optimum orientation considering the measurements of said distributions of the incident and reflected solar luminance; servo-control of the orientation of the module on said optimum orientation.
G01S 3/78 - Direction-finders for determining the direction from which infrasonic, sonic, ultrasonic, or electromagnetic waves, or particle emission, not having a directional significance, are being received using electromagnetic waves other than radio waves
G01S 3/786 - Systems for determining direction or deviation from predetermined direction using adjustment of orientation of directivity characteristics of a detector or detector system to give a desired condition of signal derived from that detector or detector system the desired condition being maintained automatically
H02S 20/32 - Supporting structures being movable or adjustable, e.g. for angle adjustment specially adapted for solar tracking
H02S 20/10 - Supporting structures directly fixed to the ground
F24S 23/70 - Arrangements for concentrating solar rays for solar heat collectors with reflectors
F24S 50/20 - Arrangements for controlling solar heat collectors for tracking
The present disclosure describes a solar power system including rails, solar modules, and a plurality of adjustable clips to secure the solar modules to the rails. The clips include at least a base member, an elastomeric support member, a bracket member, and an alignment member configured to secure the various members of the clip together. The adjustable clips are configured to slide within a slot defined through a portion of a surface of a rail and including a recessed edge thereby allowing the rail system to accommodate solar modules of varying dimensions.
A solar tracking system (200) comprises multiple solar panel modules (SPMi) forming a grid of solar panel modules, wherein the multiple solar panel modules (SPMi) are orientatable to a solar source independently of each other; and a control system (SPCi) configured to orient each of the multiple solar panel modules (SPMi) to the solar source independently of each other based on a performance model to optimize an energy output from the grid of solar panel modules, wherein the performance model predicts an energy output from the grid of solar panel modules based on a topography of the area containing the grid of solar panel modules and weather conditions local to each of the solar panel modules (SPMi).
G01S 3/786 - Systems for determining direction or deviation from predetermined direction using adjustment of orientation of directivity characteristics of a detector or detector system to give a desired condition of signal derived from that detector or detector system the desired condition being maintained automatically
H02S 20/32 - Supporting structures being movable or adjustable, e.g. for angle adjustment specially adapted for solar tracking
G05D 3/10 - Control of position or direction without using feedback
A solar tracker system including a tracker apparatus including a plurality of solar modules, each of the solar modules being spatially configured to face in a normal manner in an on sun position in an incident direction of electromagnetic radiation derived from the sun, wherein the solar modules include a plurality of PV strings, and a tracker controller. The tracker controller includes a processor, a memory, a power supply configured to provide power to the tracker controller, a plurality of power inputs configured to receive a plurality of currents from the plurality of PV strings, a current sensing unit configured to individually monitor the plurality of currents, a DC-DC power converter configured to receive the plurality of power inputs powered from the plurality of PV strings to supply power to the power supply, and a motor controller, wherein the tracker controller is configured to track the sun position.
H02S 20/32 - Supporting structures being movable or adjustable, e.g. for angle adjustment specially adapted for solar tracking
G01S 3/781 - Direction-finders for determining the direction from which infrasonic, sonic, ultrasonic, or electromagnetic waves, or particle emission, not having a directional significance, are being received using electromagnetic waves other than radio waves - Details
G05D 3/20 - Control of position or direction using feedback using a digital comparing device
G05D 3/10 - Control of position or direction without using feedback
G01S 3/782 - Systems for determining direction or deviation from predetermined direction
The present disclosure describes an expandable splice configured for reinforcing a tube of a solar owner system, the splice including a top panel, a bottom panel, a first side panel, a second side panel, and at least one beveled corner panel, wherein the first and second side panels are connected to the top and bottom panels either directly or by the at least one beveled corner panel to form a channel therebetween.
The present disclosure describes a solar power system including rails, solar modules, and a plurality of adjustable clips to secure the solar modules to the rails. The clips include at least a base member, an elastomeric support member, a bracket member, and an alignment member configured to secure the various members of the clip together. The adjustable clips are configured to slide within a slot defined through a portion of a surface of a rail and including a recessed edge thereby allowing the rail system to accommodate solar modules of varying dimensions.
A solar tracking system includes a solar array, support beams that support the solar array, a torque tube coupled to the support beams, a base that rotatably supports the torque tube, and an articulation system that rotates the torque tube relative to the base. The articulation system includes an outer tube, a screw rod, and a nut and/or inner tube that rotates and translates along a length of the screw rod as the screw rod rotates. The interior portion of the outer tube includes helical grooves and the exterior portion of the nut or inner tube includes ridges or rollers that mate with the helical grooves, which cause the nut and/or inner tube to rotate as the nut and/or inner tube is translated along a length of the screw rod when the screw rod is rotated by the motor.
A solar module mounting bracket assembly includes a rail configured to support a solar module thereon, and a pair of braces. The braces each have a first end portion movably coupled to the rail. The braces are movable relative to the rail between a collapsed configuration and an expanded configuration. In the expanded configuration, the braces cooperatively define a channel dimensioned for receipt of a frame member.
F24S 25/65 - Fixation means, e.g. fasteners, specially adapted for supporting solar heat collector modules for coupling adjacent supporting elements, e.g. for connecting profiles together
91.
Radial cam helix with 0 degree stow for solar tracker
A solar tracking system including a plurality of bases, a torque tube supported by the plurality of bases and configured to support a plurality of solar modules, and a drive device operably connected to the torque tube and arranged to translate the torque tube in a direction parallel to its longitudinal axis. The solar tracking system also includes a plurality of helical guides operably connected to the torque tube, and a plurality of cam assemblies, wherein upon linear movement of the torque tube, interaction between the helical guides and cam assemblies causes the torque tube to rotate about its linear axis.
H02S 20/32 - Supporting structures being movable or adjustable, e.g. for angle adjustment specially adapted for solar tracking
F24S 40/80 - Accommodating differential expansion of solar heat collector elements
F24S 25/65 - Fixation means, e.g. fasteners, specially adapted for supporting solar heat collector modules for coupling adjacent supporting elements, e.g. for connecting profiles together
F24S 30/00 - Arrangements for moving or orienting solar heat collector modules
F24S 25/12 - Arrangement of stationary mountings or supports for solar heat collector modules extending in directions away from a supporting surface using posts in combination with upper profiles
92.
Method for controlling the orientation of a solar tracker based on cartographic models
d) servo-controlling the orientation of the solar tracker by applying the orientation setpoint value associated to said cloud coverage model retained during step c).
The present invention finds application in the field of solar trackers.
H02S 20/32 - Supporting structures being movable or adjustable, e.g. for angle adjustment specially adapted for solar tracking
F24S 50/20 - Arrangements for controlling solar heat collectors for tracking
G01S 3/786 - Systems for determining direction or deviation from predetermined direction using adjustment of orientation of directivity characteristics of a detector or detector system to give a desired condition of signal derived from that detector or detector system the desired condition being maintained automatically
G05D 3/10 - Control of position or direction without using feedback
H02S 50/00 - Monitoring or testing of PV systems, e.g. load balancing or fault identification
A method and system for cleaning an array of solar panels. The system can include an applicator apparatus configured with a plurality of cleaning devices, and an automatic position system (APS) configured with the applicator apparatus. The APS can include a first and second sensor coupled to the applicator apparatus. A controller coupled to the first and second sensor devices can be configured to adjust a position of the applicator apparatus to maintain the plurality of cleaning devices in a direction facing a solar panel to facilitate a removal of an undesired material from the solar panel, while the applicator apparatus is moved from a first position to a second position. A mobile vehicle can be configured with the applicator apparatus to move along a row of the array of solar panels to perform the method for cleaning.
A testing platform tests an electrical and mechanical system such as an HVAC unit according to an algorithm that reduces the total testing time of the components of the system, while ensuring the safety of the system during system-wide testing. The platform uses constraints that are checked both before and during the testing to ensure that HVAC operating conditions are acceptable for starting and maintaining component tests. Preferably, the platform uses finite-state machines for each device to organize the component tests, allowing for monitoring of constraints and starting, pausing, and stopping component tests. Preferably, total test execution time is reduced by running component tests in parallel, running component tests based on loads of the components, or combinations of both.
F24F 11/30 - Control or safety arrangements for purposes related to the operation of the system, e.g. for safety or monitoring
F24F 11/49 - Control or safety arrangements for purposes related to the operation of the system, e.g. for safety or monitoring ensuring correct operation, e.g. by trial operation or configuration checks
F24F 11/48 - Control or safety arrangements for purposes related to the operation of the system, e.g. for safety or monitoring prior to normal operation, e.g. pre-heating or pre-cooling
In an example, the system has a mechanical isolator comprising an elastic material configured to separate the panel rail from the torque tube cause destructive interference with a natural resonant frequency of the system without the mechanical isolator to reduce a mechanical vibration of the system.
H02S 20/32 - Supporting structures being movable or adjustable, e.g. for angle adjustment specially adapted for solar tracking
F16F 1/36 - Springs made of material having high internal friction
F16M 11/04 - Means for attachment of apparatus; Means allowing adjustment of the apparatus relatively to the stand
F24S 40/80 - Accommodating differential expansion of solar heat collector elements
F24S 25/65 - Fixation means, e.g. fasteners, specially adapted for supporting solar heat collector modules for coupling adjacent supporting elements, e.g. for connecting profiles together
F16F 15/08 - Suppression of vibrations of non-rotating, e.g. reciprocating, systems; Suppression of vibrations of rotating systems by use of members not moving with the rotating system using elastic means with rubber springs
servo-controlling the orientation of the solar tracker according to the prior evolution of the optimum inclination angle and depending on the future evolution of the optimum inclination angle.
H02S 20/32 - Supporting structures being movable or adjustable, e.g. for angle adjustment specially adapted for solar tracking
F24S 25/12 - Arrangement of stationary mountings or supports for solar heat collector modules extending in directions away from a supporting surface using posts in combination with upper profiles
F24S 50/20 - Arrangements for controlling solar heat collectors for tracking
A solar tracker system comprising a plurality of on sun trackers and a plurality of off sun tracker. Each tracker is selectively adjusted to achieve a desired power output of the solar power plant system in an example.
Methods and systems of managing dynamic response to wind in a solar tracker system are provided. The method includes determining a wind speed, comparing the wind speed to a predetermined threshold value to determine if the wind speed equals or exceeds the predetermined threshold, positioning a windward most solar tracker to a predetermined angle based on the comparing, and positioning a leeward most solar tracker to the predetermined angle based on the comparing. The solar trackers are positioned at the predetermined angle at a predetermined interval starting at the windward most solar tracker and the remaining solar trackers remain in a normal operating condition.
Solar array including solar modules distributed in rows (10), each solar module having a solar collector carried by a single-axis solar tracker (4), a reference solar power plant including a central reference solar module and at least one secondary reference solar module, and a piloting unit adapted for: piloting the angular orientation of the central reference module according to a central reference orientation setpoint corresponding to an initial orientation setpoint, piloting the orientation of each secondary reference module according to a secondary reference orientation setpoint corresponding to the initial orientation setpoint shifted by a predefined offset angle; receiving an energy production value from each reference module; piloting the orientation of the modules, except for the reference modules, by applying the reference orientation setpoint associated to the reference module having the highest production value.
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