A mounting rail configured to connect to a photovoltaic (PV) module may include an upper portion, a first alignment member, and a second alignment member. The upper portion may include a surface configured to physically engage with a bottom surface of a module rail associated with the PV module. The first alignment member may extend from the surface of the upper portion at a first location. The first alignment member may also be configured to physically engage with a side surface of the module rail. The second alignment member may extend from the surface of the upper portion at a second location. The second alignment member may also be configured to physically engage with the side surface of the module rail.
A bifurcated bearing housing (202) for use within a torque tube (108) interface may include a first component (206) defining a first portion (210a) of an aperture configured to house a first portion of a rotating bearing, a second component (208) defining a second portion (210b) of the aperture configured to house a second portion of the rotating bearing, and a connection interface (215a, b) between the first and second components (206,208), wherein, when the first and second components (206,208) are in an attached configuration, the connection interface (215a, b) lies below a centerpoint of the aperture defined by the first and second components (206.208). The bifurcated bearing housing (202) may include one or more of ridges (222a-q), gussets (230a-d), and/or hems (420a-d) to increase the structural integrity and rigidity of the bearing housing (202).
A bifurcated bearing housing for use within a torque tube interface may include a first component defining a first portion of an aperture configured to house a first portion of a rotating bearing, a second component defining a second portion of the aperture configured to house a second portion of the rotating bearing, and a connection interface between the first and second components, wherein, when the first and second components are in an attached configuration, the connection interface lies below a centerpoint of the aperture defined by the first and second components. The bifurcated bearing housing may include one or more of ridges, gussets, and/or hems to increase the structural integrity and rigidity of the bearing housing.
Exemplary embodiments of the present disclosure address problems experienced in conventional tracking systems, including problems associated with inefficiencies created during diffuse light conditions. Embodiments disclosed herein address this problem by altering an angular orientation of PV modules during diffuse light conditions to ensure that the PV modules are in a position that more efficiently generates energy from diffuse irradiance.
A method of forming a module clamp of a photovoltaic module support structure may include cutting a folding pattern into a sheet of metal. The folding pattern may include one or more width-wise slits relative to the sheet of metal, one or more length-wise slits relative to the sheet of metal, and a hole. The method may include stamping one or more first features onto the sheet of metal to form a stamped sheet and folding the stamped sheet along the one or more width-wise slits and the one or more length-wise slits to form a preliminary module clamp. The method may include stamping one or more second features onto the preliminary module clamp to form the module clamp.
Torque limiters prevent the transmission of excessive torque between moving components of one or more gears in a tracker drive assembly. When an amount of torque between these moving components exceeds a threshold, the torque limiter may slip, thus allowing the components to move relative to each other. Embodiments disclosed herein may include a drive motor configured to rotate a drive shaft, at least one gear configured to translate rotation of the drive shaft into rotation of a PV module mounting structure, and a torque limiter interposed between an interior surface of a first component of the at least one gear and an exterior surface of a second component of the at least one gear to allow the first component to slip relative to the second component when an amount of torque between the first and second components exceeds a threshold.
H02S 20/23 - Supporting structures directly fixed to an immovable object specially adapted for buildings specially adapted for roof structures
F16D 7/02 - Slip couplings, e.g. slipping on overload, for absorbing shock of the friction type
F16M 13/02 - Other supports for positioning apparatus or articlesMeans 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
11.
TORQUE LIMITING MECHANISM FOR SOLAR TRACKING SYSTEMS
Torque limiters (650) prevent the transmission of excessive torque between moving components of one or more gears (604, 610) in a tracker drive assembly (600). When an amount of torque between these moving components exceeds a threshold, the torque limiter may slip, thus allowing the components to move relative to each other. Embodiments disclosed herein include a drive motor (110) configured to rotate a drive shaft (606), at least one gear (608, 604) configured to translate rotation of the drive shaft into rotation of a PV module mounting structure (104), and a torque limiter (650) interposed between an interior surface (612) of a first component of the at least one gear (604) and an exterior surface (614a,b) of a second component (610a, b) of the at least one gear to allow the first component to slip relative to the second component when an amount of torque between the first and second components exceeds a threshold.
F16D 1/08 - Couplings for rigidly connecting two coaxial shafts or other movable machine elements for attachment of a member on a shaft or on a shaft-end with clamping hubCouplings for rigidly connecting two coaxial shafts or other movable machine elements for attachment of a member on a shaft or on a shaft-end with hub and longitudinal key
F24S 30/00 - Arrangements for moving or orienting solar heat collector modules
H02S 20/32 - Supporting structures being movable or adjustable, e.g. for angle adjustment specially adapted for solar tracking
A driveline joint may include a driveline shaft that has a plurality of slots and a shaft coupling positioned in an interior of the driveline shaft in which the shaft coupling includes one or more openings with each of the openings corresponding to one or more respective slots of the plurality of slots included in the driveline shaft. The driveline joint may include one or more spherical bearings that are each positioned between an interior lateral surface of the driveline shaft and an exterior lateral surface of the shaft coupling and against one of the openings of the shaft coupling. The driveline joint may include one or more fasteners, wherein each of the fasteners extends through one of the slots and one of the openings of the shaft coupling.
A torque tube coupler may include an outer body that includes a first abutting surface and a second abutting surface adjacent to the first abutting surface. Set screws may be inserted into one or more channels of the first abutting surface. Tightening the set screws may force the abutting surfaces away from each other and the outer body to press against an inner surface of a torque tube. Another embodiment of the torque tube coupler may include a central ring sized based on a size of a torque tube. The torque tube coupler may also include a set of fingers that extend away from a first side of the central ring and are shaped to flex radially outward. The torque tube coupler may include a core disposed within the set of fingers that, when drawn towards the central ring, causes the fingers to flex radially outwards.
F16D 1/08 - Couplings for rigidly connecting two coaxial shafts or other movable machine elements for attachment of a member on a shaft or on a shaft-end with clamping hubCouplings for rigidly connecting two coaxial shafts or other movable machine elements for attachment of a member on a shaft or on a shaft-end with hub and longitudinal key
H02S 30/00 - Structural details of PV modules other than those related to light conversion
A deflection pad may include a body. The body may include a recess to accommodate a fastener configured to attach the deflection pad to a support structure. The base of the deflection pad may include a bottom surface configured to engage a surface of the support structure. The deflection pad may be included in a system that includes a torsion beam and one or more support racks to which multiple PV modules may be attached, where the support are racks attached to the torsion beam. One or more deflection pads may be positioned between the PV modules and the support rack so as to cushion impact.
06 - Common metals and ores; objects made of metal
07 - Machines and machine tools
09 - Scientific and electric apparatus and instruments
Goods & Services
Metal structures for mounting solar panels; metal structures
for supporting solar panels, photovoltaic modules, and
photovoltaic cells; metal structures for supporting solar
panels, photovoltaic modules, and photovoltaic cells,
namely, solar tracking systems; roofing of metal,
incorporating photovoltaic cells. Driving motors, other than for land vehicles, for
positioning of photovoltaic modules relative to the sun, and
replacement parts therefor; electric motors for machines for
positioning of photovoltaic modules relative to the sun to
maximize collection of solar energy; machine motors and
gears for automatically positioning of photovoltaic modules
relative to the sun; motors, gears, and drives for orienting
solar panels of solar photovoltaic electric power generation
systems. Photovoltaic systems comprised primarily of apparatus for
positioning photovoltaic modules and also mounting
structures specially adapted for photovoltaic modules;
photovoltaic systems in the nature of solar trackers
comprised of automatic solar tracking systems that track the
sun to maximize collection of solar energy; solar trackers
in the nature of photovoltaic solar modules for production
of electricity that track the sun in order to optimize the
production of energy from the solar light; solar-tracking
systems comprised of automatic solar tracking sensors for
automatically tracking the sun and positioning of
photovoltaic modules relative to the sun; photovoltaic
systems comprised of metal mounting structures for
photovoltaic modules for production of solar energy.
17.
Spring counter-balance assemblies and solar trackers incorporating springs to balance rotation
A solar tracker assembly is provided which includes a support column, a torque tube or torsion beam connected to the support column, a mounting mechanism attached to the torque tube or torsion beam, a drive system connected to the torque tube or torsion beam, and a spring counter-balance assembly connected to the torque tube or torsion beam. An exemplary spring counter-balance assembly comprises a bearing housing and a bushing disposed within the bearing housing and configured to be slideably mounted onto the torque tube or torsion beam, and one or more compressible cords made of a flexible material. The compressible cords are located between the bushing and the bearing housing and provide damping during rotational movement of the solar tracker assembly. An exemplary spring counter-balance assembly is provided including at least one top bracket and at least one bottom bracket, at least one spring, a damper, and a bracket. An exemplary spring counter-balance assembly comprises a bearing housing and a bushing disposed within the bearing housing and configured to be slideably mounted onto the torque tube or torsion beam. The spring counter-balance assembly may include at least one coil spring and a rotational stop. The bushing may be made of an elastomeric material and define one or more air spaces.
H02S 20/32 - Supporting structures being movable or adjustable, e.g. for angle adjustment specially adapted for solar tracking
F16M 11/12 - Means for attachment of apparatusMeans allowing adjustment of the apparatus relatively to the stand allowing pivoting in more than one direction
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 30/452 - Arrangements for moving or orienting solar heat collector modules for rotary movement with two rotation axes with vertical primary axis
An extension panel may include a mating surface shaped to interface with a back surface of a clamp that includes a mounting hole corresponding to a bolt slot in the back surface of the clamp to accommodate a single bolt passing through the extension panel and the clamp. The extension panel may also include a pair of flanges projecting outward from the mating surface and positioned to be on either side of the clamp. The extension panel may also include a flat top surface generally parallel and aligned linearly with another flat top surface of a flexible member. The extension flat top surface may be sized to be approximately a same width as the flexible member at a first end of the extension flat top surface proximate the mating surface and may flare out as the extension flat top surface extends away from the flexible member.
F16M 11/20 - Undercarriages with or without wheels
F16M 13/02 - Other supports for positioning apparatus or articlesMeans for steadying hand-held apparatus or articles for supporting on, or attaching to, an object, e.g. tree, gate, window-frame, cycle
A method may include calculating a solar position of the Sun and a projected solar zenith (PSZ) relative to a position of a photovoltaic (PV) module. The method may include determining whether an orientation of the PV module is configurable to prevent shading of an upper substring of the PV module while shading a lower substring of the PV module. Responsive to determining that such an orientation is not configurable, the method may include determining whether the orientation of the PV module is configurable to prevent shading of both the upper substring and the lower substring. Responsive to determining that such an orientation is not configurable, the method may include determining whether the PSZ is within a maximum tracker angle range. A target tracker angle may be identified based on the PSZ and the maximum tracker angle range and used as a tracker angle control setpoint.
A method may include positioning one or more PV module mounting devices along a length of a structural component. The method may include specifying one or more parameters related to fastening the PV module mounting devices to the structural component, the one or more parameters indicating a spacing between the PV module mounting devices. The method may include fastening, by an automated attachment equipment, the PV module mounting devices to the structural component based on the specified parameters and moving the PV module mounting devices fastened to the structural component to an assembly platform.
H02S 20/30 - Supporting structures being movable or adjustable, e.g. for angle adjustment
B23P 21/00 - Machines for assembling a multiplicity of different parts to compose units, with or without preceding or subsequent working of such parts, e.g. with programme control
A method may include positioning one or more PV module mounting devices along a length of a structural component. The method may include specifying one or more parameters related to fastening the PV module mounting devices to the structural component, the one or more parameters indicating a spacing between the PV module mounting devices. The method may include fastening, by an automated attachment equipment, the PV module mounting devices to the structural component based on the specified parameters and moving the PV module mounting devices fastened to the structural component to an assembly platform.
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
H02S 20/20 - Supporting structures directly fixed to an immovable object
F24S 25/00 - Arrangement of stationary mountings or supports for solar heat collector modules
F24S 25/60 - Fixation means, e.g. fasteners, specially adapted for supporting solar heat collector modules
A driveline joint may include a driveline shaft that has a plurality of slots and a shaft coupling positioned in an interior of the driveline shaft in which the shaft coupling includes one or more openings with each of the openings corresponding to one or more respective slots of the plurality of slots included in the driveline shaft. The driveline joint may include one or more spherical bearings that are each positioned between an interior lateral surface of the driveline shaft and an exterior lateral surface of the shaft coupling and against one of the openings of the shaft coupling. The driveline joint may include one or more fasteners, wherein each of the fasteners extends through one of the slots and one of the openings of the shaft coupling.
F16D 3/205 - Universal joints in which flexibility is produced by means of pivots or sliding or rolling connecting parts one coupling part entering a sleeve of the other coupling part and connected thereto by sliding or rolling members one coupling part having radially projecting pins, e.g. tripod joints the pins extending radially outwardly from the coupling part
A driveline joint may include a driveline shaft that has a plurality of slots and a shaft coupling positioned in an interior of the driveline shaft in which the shaft coupling includes one or more openings with each of the openings corresponding to one or more respective slots of the plurality of slots included in the driveline shaft. The driveline joint may include one or more spherical bearings that are each positioned between an interior lateral surface of the driveline shaft and an exterior lateral surface of the shaft coupling and against one of the openings of the shaft coupling. The driveline joint may include one or more fasteners, wherein each of the fasteners extends through one of the slots and one of the openings of the shaft coupling.
A method may include obtaining information from a weather forecasting service that relates to indicators of an incoming hail event. The method may include determining a stowing score that quantifies whether the hail event is likely to occur within a period of time based on the information from the weather forecasting service. Responsive to the stowing score exceeding a threshold value, a time at which the incoming hail event is likely to occur may be predicted based on the weather forecasting service information. The threshold value may indicate a threshold likelihood of the hail event occurring or a threshold period of time before occurrence. The method may include determining a wind direction at the predicted time at which the hail event is likely to occur and stowing photovoltaic modules based on the wind direction.
A method of forming a module clamp of a photovoltaic module support structure may include cutting a folding pattern into a sheet of metal. The folding pattern may include one or more width-wise slits relative to the sheet of metal, one or more length-wise slits relative to the sheet of metal, and a hole. The method may include stamping one or more first features onto the sheet of metal to form a stamped sheet and folding the stamped sheet along the one or more width-wise slits and the one or more length-wise slits to form a preliminary module clamp. The method may include stamping one or more second features onto the preliminary module clamp to form the module clamp.
A method may include obtaining information from a weather forecasting service that relates to indicators of an incoming hail event. The method may include determining a stowing score that quantifies whether the hail event is likely to occur within a period of time based on the information from the weather forecasting service. Responsive to the stowing score exceeding a threshold value, a time at which the incoming hail event is likely to occur may be predicted based on the weather forecasting service information. The threshold value may indicate a threshold likelihood of the hail event occurring or a threshold period of time before occurrence. The method may include determining a wind direction at the predicted time at which the hail event is likely to occur and stowing photovoltaic modules based on the wind direction.
A mounting assembly may include an arced connecting member that includes a first drive chain along a bottom surface of the arced connecting member, a second drive chain positioned adjacent to the first drive chain, and a third drive chain in a gap between the first and the second drive chains. The mounting assembly may include an intermittent-motion drive system that has a drive wheel with a nub extending from a lateral surface of the drive wheel, the nub being shaped to interface with notches included along the third drive chain. The intermittent-motion drive system may include a first and a second protrusion shaped to interface with surfaces of the first and second drive chains, respectively. Rotation of a drive axle extending through the drive wheel may affect rotation of the drive wheel, rotational movement of the nub extending from the drive wheel, and movement of the arced connecting member.
A photovoltaic (PV) module clamp may be configured to interface with a torque tube and a PV module rail fixedly coupled to a PV module. The PV module clamp may include a seating portion made of two or more lateral walls and a base surface. A clamp body of the PV module clamp may be coupled to the seating portion. The clamp body may include a shape corresponding to a cross-sectional shape of the torque tube. The PV module clamp may include a fastening feature for interlocking the PV module clamp with the PV module rail responsive to the PV module rail being seated in the seating portion of the PV module clamp.
H02S 20/32 - Supporting structures being movable or adjustable, e.g. for angle adjustment specially adapted for solar tracking
F24S 25/63 - Fixation means, e.g. fasteners, specially adapted for supporting solar heat collector modules for fixing modules or their peripheral frames to supporting elements
A photovoltaic (PV) module clamp may be configured to interface with a torque tube and a PV module rail fixedly coupled to a PV module. The PV module clamp may include a seating portion made of two or more lateral walls and a base surface. A clamp body of the PV module clamp may be coupled to the seating portion. The clamp body may include a shape corresponding to a cross-sectional shape of the torque tube. The PV module clamp may include a fastening feature for interlocking the PV module clamp with the PV module rail responsive to the PV module rail being seated in the seating portion of the PV module clamp.
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
F16M 13/02 - Other supports for positioning apparatus or articlesMeans for steadying hand-held apparatus or articles for supporting on, or attaching to, an object, e.g. tree, gate, window-frame, cycle
A mounting assembly may include an arced connecting member that includes a first drive chain along a bottom surface of the arced connecting member, a second drive chain positioned adjacent to the first drive chain, and a third drive chain in a gap between the first and the second drive chains. The mounting assembly may include an intermittent- motion drive system that has a drive wheel with a nub extending from a lateral surface of the drive wheel, the nub being shaped to interface with notches included along the third drive chain. The intermittent-motion drive system may include a first and a second protrusion shaped to interface with surfaces of the first and second drive chains, respectively. Rotation of a drive axle extending through the drive wheel may affect rotation of the drive wheel, rotational movement of the nub extending from the drive wheel, and movement of the arced connecting member.
A system may include a support column, and a torsion beam connected to the support column and connected to one or more frames circumscribing one or more respective photovoltaic (PV) modules. An angle of orientation of the one or more frames may change based on rotation of the torsion beam. The system may also include an aeroelastic stabilizer associated with an edge of at least one of the frames. The association between the aeroelastic stabilizer and the edge of the at least one of the frames may include the aeroelastic stabilizer being fixedly coupled to the rail. The association between the aeroelastic stabilizer and the edge of the at least one of the frames may include the aeroelastic stabilizer being integrally formed with the rail to which the edge of the at least one of the frames is fixedly coupled.
A deflection pad may include a body including two peaks, and a recess in the body between the two peaks, the recess may be sized to accommodate a fastener such that when deployed, the fastener is below a height of the two peaks within the recess. The deflection pad may include arms projecting in a direction generally opposite the two peaks, the arms biased inward towards the recess. The deflection pad may be included in a system that includes a torsion beam and one or more support racks to which multiple PV modules may be attached, where the support are racks attached to the torsion beam. One or more deflection pads may be positioned on the support racks to be below the PV modules.
A deflection pad may include a body including two peaks, and a recess in the body between the two peaks, the recess may be sized to accommodate a fastener such that when deployed, the fastener is below a height of the two peaks within the recess. The deflection pad may include arms projecting in a direction generally opposite the two peaks, the arms biased inward towards the recess. The deflection pad may be included in a system that includes a torsion beam and one or more support racks to which multiple PV modules may be attached, where the support are racks attached to the torsion beam. One or more deflection pads may be positioned on the support racks to be below the PV modules.
A deflection pad may include a body including two peaks, and a recess in the body between the two peaks, the recess may be sized to accommodate a fastener such that when deployed, the fastener is below a height of the two peaks within the recess. The deflection pad may include arms projecting in a direction generally opposite the two peaks, the arms biased inward towards the recess. The deflection pad may be included in a system that includes a torsion beam and one or more support racks to which multiple PV modules may be attached, where the support are racks attached to the torsion beam. One or more deflection pads may be positioned on the support racks to be below the PV modules.
A method may include obtaining a normal set point of a solar panel and a wind velocity measurement corresponding to wind that affects the solar panel. The method may include determining an allowable range of tilt angles according to a first lookup table that describes a relationship between the wind velocity measurement and the allowable range of tilt angles. The method may include identifying whether the normal set point of the solar panel is outside of the allowable range of tilt angles, and responsive to identifying that the normal set point of the solar panel is outside of the allowable range of tilt angles, determining a temporary stow set point. The method may include rotating the solar panel to the temporary stow set point.
A method may include obtaining a normal set point of a solar panel and a wind velocity measurement corresponding to wind that affects the solar panel. The method may include determining an allowable range of tilt angles according to a first lookup table that describes a relationship between the wind velocity measurement and the allowable range of tilt angles. The method may include identifying whether the normal set point of the solar panel is outside of the allowable range of tilt angles, and responsive to identifying that the normal set point of the solar panel is outside of the allowable range of tilt angles, determining a temporary stow set point. The method may include rotating the solar panel to the temporary stow set point.
A method may include obtaining a normal set point of a solar panel and a wind velocity measurement corresponding to wind that affects the solar panel. The method may include determining an allowable range of tilt angles according to a first lookup table that describes a relationship between the wind velocity measurement and the allowable range of tilt angles. The method may include identifying whether the normal set point of the solar panel is outside of the allowable range of tilt angles, and responsive to identifying that the normal set point of the solar panel is outside of the allowable range of tilt angles, determining a temporary stow set point. The method may include rotating the solar panel to the temporary stow set point.
A first embodiment of a torque tube coupler (1000) includes an outer body (1005) that includes a first abutting surface (1020) and a second abutting surface (1030) adjacent to the first abutting surface (1020). Set screws are inserted into channels (1012) of the first abutting surface (1020). Tightening the set screws forces the abutting surfaces (1020, 1030) away from each other such that the outer body (1005) can be pressed against the inner surfaces of coaxial torque tubes to be connected. Another embodiment of the torque tube coupler (300) includes a central ring (310) having a size based on a size of a torque tube (390, 391) to be connected. The torque tube coupler (300) also includes a set of fingers (320, 321) that extend away from a side of the central ring (310) and are shaped to flex radially outward. The torque tube coupler (300) includes a core (330, 331) disposed within the set of fingers (320, 321) that, when drawn towards the central ring (310), causes the fingers (320, 321) to flex radially outwards.
F16D 1/04 - Couplings for rigidly connecting two coaxial shafts or other movable machine elements for connecting two abutting shafts or the like with clamping hubCouplings for rigidly connecting two coaxial shafts or other movable machine elements for connecting two abutting shafts or the like with hub and longitudinal key
F16D 1/05 - Couplings for rigidly connecting two coaxial shafts or other movable machine elements for connecting two abutting shafts or the like with clamping hubCouplings for rigidly connecting two coaxial shafts or other movable machine elements for connecting two abutting shafts or the like with hub and longitudinal key with radial clamping due to axial loading of at least one pair of conical surfaces
H02S 20/32 - Supporting structures being movable or adjustable, e.g. for angle adjustment specially adapted for solar tracking
A module mounting system may include a photovoltaic (PV) module frame including a mounting rail. The module mounting system may include a spring clip with a PV module frame interfacing element and a clip interfacing element. The spring clip may apply spring force via deformation to lock the PV module frame and a clip together. A second embodiment of the spring clip may include an upper component having one or more arms and a lower component having a central loop configured to rotate relative to each other and interface with the PV module frame or the mounting rail. A second embodiment of the module mounting system may include screwless clips including outer walls and inner walls coupled together as a continuous sheet of material. The screwless clips may couple to a respective mounting flange and a respective frame flange to lock the mounting purlin and the PV module frame together.
A first embodiment of a torque tube coupler may include an outer body that includes a first abutting surface and a second abutting surface adjacent to the first abutting surface. Set screws may be inserted into one or more channels of the first abutting surface. Tightening the set screws may force the abutting surfaces away from each other and the outer body to press against an inner surface of a torque tube. Another embodiment of the torque tube coupler may include a central ring sized based on a size of a torque tube. The torque tube coupler may also include a set of fingers that extend away from a first side of the central ring and are shaped to flex radially outward. The torque tube coupler may include a core disposed within the set of fingers that, when drawn towards the central ring, causes the fingers to flex radially outwards.
A first embodiment of an anchor system may include a ballast, rods projecting through the ballast such that the rods extend away from the ballast and into the ground when deployed, and a mounting hardware atop the ballast. The anchor system may include an anchor deployable into the ground with a line providing tension between the ballast and the anchor when deployed into the ground. Another embodiment of the anchor may include a ground plate coupled to a spade in which the spade may be pressed into the ground when deployed. The anchor system may include an earth anchor shaped to be deployed in a first position and resist removal from the ground in a second position. and a line running from the ground plate to the earth anchor. The tension on the line may cause the earth anchor to transition from the first position to the second position.
A module mounting system may include a photovoltaic (PV) module frame including a mounting rail. The module mounting system may include a spring clip with a PV module frame interfacing element and a clip interfacing element. The spring clip may apply spring force via deformation to lock the PV module frame and a clip together. A second embodiment of the spring clip may include an upper component having one or more arms and a lower component having a central loop configured to rotate relative to each other and interface with the PV module frame or the mounting rail. A second embodiment of the module mounting system may include screwless clips including outer walls and inner walls coupled together as a continuous sheet of material. The screwless clips may couple to a respective mounting flange and a respective frame flange to lock the mounting purlin and the PV module frame together.
F16B 2/24 - 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 of metal
H02S 40/34 - Electrical components comprising specially adapted electrical connection means to be structurally associated with the PV module, e.g. junction boxes
H01R 4/2407 - Connections using contact members penetrating or cutting insulation or cable strands the contact members having teeth, prongs, pins or needles penetrating the insulation having saw-tooth projections
A first embodiment of an anchor system may include a ballast, rods projecting through the ballast such that the rods extend away from the ballast and into the ground when deployed, and a mounting hardware atop the ballast. The anchor system may include an anchor deployable into the ground with a line providing tension between the ballast and the anchor when deployed into the ground. Another embodiment of the anchor may include a ground plate coupled to a spade in which the spade may be pressed into the ground when deployed. The anchor system may include an earth anchor shaped to be deployed in a first position and resist removal from the ground in a second position, and a line running from the ground plate to the earth anchor. The tension on the line may cause the earth anchor to transition from the first position to the second position.
H02S 20/10 - Supporting structures directly fixed to the ground
E02D 27/42 - Foundations for poles, masts, or chimneys
F24S 25/617 - Elements driven into the ground, e.g. anchor-pilesFoundations for supporting elementsConnectors for connecting supporting structures to the ground or to flat horizontal surfaces
F24S 25/10 - Arrangement of stationary mountings or supports for solar heat collector modules extending in directions away from a supporting surface
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
A module mounting system may include a photovoltaic (PV) module frame including a mounting rail. The module mounting system may include a spring clip with a PV module frame interfacing element and a clip interfacing element. The spring clip may apply spring force via deformation to lock the PV module frame and a clip together. A second embodiment of the spring clip may include an upper component having one or more arms and a lower component having a central loop configured to rotate relative to each other and interface with the PV module frame or the mounting rail. A second embodiment of the module mounting system may include screwless clips including outer walls and inner walls coupled together as a continuous sheet of material. The screwless clips may couple to a respective mounting flange and a respective frame flange to lock the mounting purlin and the PV module frame together.
06 - Common metals and ores; objects made of metal
07 - Machines and machine tools
09 - Scientific and electric apparatus and instruments
36 - Financial, insurance and real estate services
37 - Construction and mining; installation and repair services
42 - Scientific, technological and industrial services, research and design
Goods & Services
Metal structures for mounting solar panels; metal structures
for supporting solar panels, photovoltaic modules, and
photovoltaic cells; metal structures for supporting solar
panels, photovoltaic modules, and photovoltaic cells,
namely, solar tracking systems; roofing of metal,
incorporating photovoltaic cells. Solar trackers, namely, driving motors, other than for land
vehicles, for positioning of photovoltaic modules relative
to the sun; solar trackers, namely, driving motors, other
than for land vehicles, for positioning of photovoltaic
modules relative to the sun, and parts and accessories
therefor; solar-tracking systems comprised of electric
motors for machines for positioning of photovoltaic modules
relative to the sun to maximize collection of solar energy;
solar-tracking systems consisting of machine motors and
gears for automatically tracking the sun and positioning of
photovoltaic modules relative to the sun; solar photovoltaic
power generation systems using solar trackers, namely,
solar-powered electricity generators; solar trackers for
solar photovoltaic electric power generation systems
comprised of motors, gears, and drives for orienting solar
panel. Photovoltaic systems, namely, electronic control apparatus
for positioning photovoltaic modules and mounting structures
specially adapted for photovoltaic modules; photovoltaic
systems, namely, photovoltaic modules for production of
solar energy and mounting structures specially adapted for
photovoltaic modules; photovoltaic systems in the nature of
solar tracking sensors that track the sun to maximize
collection of solar energy; downloadable computer software
for controlling movement and positioning of solar trackers;
computer hardware and software for controlling movement and
positioning of solar trackers; computer software and
programs for controlling, regulating and monitoring of
photovoltaic modules and solar trackers; solar trackers in
the nature of photovoltaic solar modules that track the sun
in order to optimize the production of energy from the solar
light. Providing extended warranty services for goods, namely, for
solar tracking systems pursuant to service agreements. Installation, maintenance, and repair of solar-tracking
systems; installation and maintenance of photovoltaic
installations; construction of structures for installation
of solar-tracking systems. Design of solar photovoltaic systems; drafting and
development of photovoltaic systems; engineering services
for solar-tracking systems; quality evaluation for others in
the field of maintenance, repair and installation of
photovoltaic modules, solar panels, and solar trackers;
design of solar photovoltaic systems, namely, design and
planning of solar-tracking systems, and installation of
solar-tracking software systems.
06 - Common metals and ores; objects made of metal
07 - Machines and machine tools
09 - Scientific and electric apparatus and instruments
36 - Financial, insurance and real estate services
37 - Construction and mining; installation and repair services
42 - Scientific, technological and industrial services, research and design
Goods & Services
Metal structures for mounting solar panels; metal structures
for supporting solar panels, photovoltaic modules, and
photovoltaic cells; metal structures for supporting solar
panels, photovoltaic modules, and photovoltaic cells,
namely, solar tracking systems; roofing of metal,
incorporating photovoltaic cells. Solar trackers, namely, driving motors, other than for land
vehicles, for positioning of photovoltaic modules relative
to the sun; solar trackers, namely, driving motors, other
than for land vehicles, for positioning of photovoltaic
modules relative to the sun, and parts and accessories
therefor; solar-tracking systems comprised of electric
motors for machines for positioning of photovoltaic modules
relative to the sun to maximize collection of solar energy;
solar-tracking systems consisting of machine motors and
gears for automatically tracking the sun and positioning of
photovoltaic modules relative to the sun; solar photovoltaic
power generation systems using solar trackers, namely,
solar-powered electricity generators; solar trackers for
solar photovoltaic electric power generation systems
comprised of motors, gears, and drives for orienting solar
panel. Photovoltaic systems, namely, electronic control apparatus
for positioning photovoltaic modules and mounting structures
specially adapted for photovoltaic modules; photovoltaic
systems, namely, photovoltaic modules for production of
solar energy and mounting structures specially adapted for
photovoltaic modules; photovoltaic systems in the nature of
solar tracking sensors that track the sun to maximize
collection of solar energy; downloadable computer software
for controlling movement and positioning of solar trackers;
computer hardware and software for controlling movement and
positioning of solar trackers; computer software and
programs for controlling, regulating and monitoring of
photovoltaic modules and solar trackers; solar trackers in
the nature of photovoltaic solar modules that track the sun
in order to optimize the production of energy from the solar
light. Providing extended warranty services for goods, namely, for
solar tracking systems pursuant to service agreements. Installation, maintenance, and repair of solar-tracking
systems; installation and maintenance of photovoltaic
installations; construction of structures for installation
of solar-tracking systems. Design of solar photovoltaic systems; drafting and
development of photovoltaic systems; engineering services
for solar-tracking systems; quality evaluation for others in
the field of maintenance, repair and installation of
photovoltaic modules, solar panels, and solar trackers;
design of solar photovoltaic systems, namely, design and
planning of solar-tracking systems, and installation of
solar-tracking software systems.
An extension panel may include a mating surface shaped to interface with a back surface of a clamp that includes a mounting hole corresponding to a bolt slot in the back surface of the clamp to accommodate a single bolt passing through the extension panel and the clamp. The extension panel may also include a pair of flanges projecting outward from the mating surface and positioned to be on either side of the clamp. The extension panel may also include a flat top surface generally parallel and aligned linearly with another flat top surface of a flexible member. The extension flat top surface may be sized to be approximately a same width as the flexible member at a first end of the extension flat top surface proximate the mating surface and may flare out as the extension flat top surface extends away from the flexible member.
F16M 11/20 - Undercarriages with or without wheels
F16M 13/02 - Other supports for positioning apparatus or articlesMeans for steadying hand-held apparatus or articles for supporting on, or attaching to, an object, e.g. tree, gate, window-frame, cycle
A mounting bracket assembly comprising may include an upper region with flat portions on either end that interface with a photovoltaic (PV) module and a lower portion in between the flat portions, and a central portion at least partially surrounding a hole shaped to accommodate a torsion beam. The mounting bracket assembly may also include side portions extending from the ends of the upper region to below the hole shaped to accommodate the torsion beam, and a first outer lining along a periphery of the mounting bracket assembly. The mounting bracket assembly may also include a second outer lining along the hole shaped to accommodate the torsion beam, and multiple ribs extending between the first outer lining and the second outer lining.
H02S 20/22 - Supporting structures directly fixed to an immovable object specially adapted for buildings
F16M 13/02 - Other supports for positioning apparatus or articlesMeans for steadying hand-held apparatus or articles for supporting on, or attaching to, an object, e.g. tree, gate, window-frame, cycle
H01L 31/042 - PV modules or arrays of single PV cells
A mounting bracket assembly comprising may include an upper region with flat portions on either end that interface with a photovoltaic (PV) module and a lower portion in between the flat portions, and a central portion at least partially surrounding a hole shaped to accommodate a torsion beam. The mounting bracket assembly may also include side portions extending from the ends of the upper region to below the hole shaped to accommodate the torsion beam, and a first outer lining along a periphery of the mounting bracket assembly. The mounting bracket assembly may also include a second outer lining along the hole shaped to accommodate the torsion beam, and multiple ribs extending between the first outer lining and the second outer lining.
A mounting bracket assembly comprising may include an upper region with flat portions on either end that interface with a photovoltaic (PV) module and a lower portion in between the flat portions, and a central portion at least partially surrounding a hole shaped to accommodate a torsion beam. The mounting bracket assembly may also include side portions extending from the ends of the upper region to below the hole shaped to accommodate the torsion beam, and a first outer lining along a periphery of the mounting bracket assembly. The mounting bracket assembly may also include a second outer lining along the hole shaped to accommodate the torsion beam, and multiple ribs extending between the first outer lining and the second outer lining.
E04D 13/18 - Roof covering aspects of energy collecting devices, e.g. including solar panels
F16M 13/02 - Other supports for positioning apparatus or articlesMeans for steadying hand-held apparatus or articles for supporting on, or attaching to, an object, e.g. tree, gate, window-frame, cycle
A mounting system may include a frame associated with a power-generating device, the frame including an opening. The mounting system may include a bracket mounting assembly. The bracket mounting assembly may include a top member having a first surface, a clamp, and a single bolt passing through both the top member and the clamp such that the clamp moves along an interface between the first and a second surfaces as the single bolt is tightened. The clamp may include the second surface corresponding to the first surface, an arm projecting away from the top member, and a flange at least proximate a top of the arm. The flange may include an ear at the top of the arm and a tab on a bottom side of the ear projecting back towards the top member, the tab positioned to interface with the opening on the frame.
F24S 20/70 - Waterborne solar heat collector modules
F24S 25/00 - Arrangement of stationary mountings or supports for 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
A mounting system may include a frame associated with a power-generating device, the frame including an opening. The mounting system may include a bracket mounting assembly. The bracket mounting assembly may include a top member having a first surface, a clamp, and a single bolt passing through both the top member and the clamp such that the clamp moves along an interface between the first and a second surfaces as the single bolt is tightened. The clamp may include the second surface corresponding to the first surface, an arm projecting away from the top member, and a flange at least proximate a top of the arm. The flange may include an ear at the top of the arm and a tab on a bottom side of the ear projecting back towards the top member, the tab positioned to interface with the opening on the frame.
H02S 20/20 - Supporting structures directly fixed to an immovable object
F24S 20/70 - Waterborne 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
E04D 13/18 - Roof covering aspects of energy collecting devices, e.g. including solar panels
59.
Clip-on mounting rails, mounting brackets, and methods of mounting solar modules
A snap-on mounting bracket assembly suitable for connecting a mounting rail to a torque tube is provided. The mounting bracket assembly includes an upper clamp piece and a lower clamp piece. The upper clamp piece has a first member defining a tube insertion aperture and an open bottom space and includes an upper partial fastener. The lower clamp piece has a second member with a lower partial fastener configured to mate with the upper partial fastener such that the lower clamp piece is attachable to the upper clamp piece. In exemplary embodiments, the lower clamp piece further comprises two opposing support members configured to attach to the mounting rail. Solar tracker assemblies incorporating snap-on open mounting brackets are provided. Methods of mounting framed or unframed solar modules are also described. A mounting rail is attached to an upper clamp piece of a mounting assembly. Then the upper clamp piece is snapped onto a torque tube. A lower clamp piece of the mounting assembly is then attached to the upper clamp piece by mating a lower partial fastener of the lower clamp piece with an upper partial fastener of the upper clamp piece. When the upper and lower clamp pieces are attached, the open bottom space is closed and the mounting rail is secured to the torque tube.
F16M 11/10 - Means for attachment of apparatusMeans allowing adjustment of the apparatus relatively to the stand allowing pivoting around a horizontal axis
F16M 11/18 - Heads with mechanism for moving the apparatus relatively to the stand
F24S 25/60 - Fixation means, e.g. fasteners, specially adapted for supporting solar heat collector modules
60.
Solar tracking during persistent cloudy conditions
A method may include obtaining current data from a sensor related to performance of a solar power generating device, and comparing the current data from the sensor to previously stored data to detect a decrease in expected power generation. The method may also include determining whether the decrease in expected power generation is designated a persistently occurring decrease, and, based on the designation of the decrease as being persistent, changing an orientation of the solar power generating device to a stowed orientation.
G05D 3/10 - Control of position or direction without using feedback
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
61.
SOLAR TRACKING DURING PERSISTENT CLOUDY CONDITIONS
A method may include obtaining current data from a sensor related to performance of a solar power generating device, and comparing the current data from the sensor to previously stored data to detect a decrease in expected power generation. The method may also include determining whether the decrease in expected power generation is designated a persistently occurring decrease, and, based on the designation of the decrease as being persistent, changing an orientation of the solar power generating device to a stowed orientation.
A method may include orienting a set of solar power units in a first position in which rows of solar power units are shaded by adjacent rows of solar power units; and monitoring energy generated by the set of solar power units over a window of time, that includes from when the set of solar power units are oriented in the first position until a sun angle corresponds to none of the rows being shaded by the adjacent rows. The method may include identifying a knee in energy generation during the first window of time, where the knee indicates a transition from higher to lower rates of change of energy generation at a given solar angle. The method may include plotting a trajectory of future orientation positions over time of the set of solar power units that include an orientation and time corresponding to the given solar angle.
A method may include orienting a set of solar power units in a first position in which rows of solar power units are shaded by adjacent rows of solar power units; and monitoring energy generated by the set of solar power units over a window of time, that includes from when the set of solar power units are oriented in the first position until a sun angle corresponds to none of the rows being shaded by the adjacent rows. The method may include identifying a knee in energy generation during the first window of time, where the knee indicates a transition from higher to lower rates of change of energy generation at a given solar angle. The method may include plotting a trajectory of future orientation positions over time of the set of solar power units that include an orientation and time corresponding to the given solar angle.
G05D 3/10 - Control of position or direction without using feedback
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
H02S 20/32 - Supporting structures being movable or adjustable, e.g. for angle adjustment specially adapted for solar 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
A method may include orienting a set of solar power units in a first position in which rows of solar power units are shaded by adjacent rows of solar power units; and monitoring energy generated by the set of solar power units over a window of time, that includes from when the set of solar power units are oriented in the first position until a sun angle corresponds to none of the rows being shaded by the adjacent rows. The method may include identifying a knee in energy generation during the first window of time, where the knee indicates a transition from higher to lower rates of change of energy generation at a given solar angle. The method may include plotting a trajectory of future orientation positions over time of the set of solar power units that include an orientation and time corresponding to the given solar angle.
06 - Common metals and ores; objects made of metal
07 - Machines and machine tools
09 - Scientific and electric apparatus and instruments
36 - Financial, insurance and real estate services
37 - Construction and mining; installation and repair services
42 - Scientific, technological and industrial services, research and design
Goods & Services
(1) Metal structures for mounting solar panels; metal structures for supporting solar panels, photovoltaic modules, and photovoltaic cells; metal structures for supporting solar panels, photovoltaic modules, and photovoltaic cells, namely, solar tracking systems; roofing of metal, incorporating photovoltaic cells.
(2) Solar trackers, namely, driving motors, other than for land vehicles, for positioning of photovoltaic modules relative to the sun; solar trackers, namely, driving motors, other than for land vehicles, for positioning of photovoltaic modules relative to the sun, and parts and accessories therefor; solar-tracking systems comprised of electric motors for machines for positioning of photovoltaic modules relative to the sun to maximize collection of solar energy; solar-tracking systems consisting of machine motors and gears for automatically tracking the sun and positioning of photovoltaic modules relative to the sun; solar photovoltaic power generation systems using solar trackers, namely, solar-powered electricity generators; solar trackers for solar photovoltaic electric power generation systems comprised of motors, gears, and drives for orienting solar panel.
(3) Photovoltaic systems, namely, electronic control apparatus for positioning photovoltaic modules and mounting structures specially adapted for photovoltaic modules; photovoltaic systems, namely, photovoltaic modules for production of solar energy and mounting structures specially adapted for photovoltaic modules; photovoltaic systems in the nature of solar tracking sensors that track the sun to maximize collection of solar energy; downloadable computer software for controlling movement and positioning of solar trackers; computer hardware and software for controlling movement and positioning of solar trackers; computer software and programs for controlling, regulating and monitoring of photovoltaic modules and solar trackers; solar trackers in the nature of photovoltaic solar modules that track the sun in order to optimize the production of energy from the solar light. (1) Providing extended warranty services for goods, namely, for solar tracking systems pursuant to service agreements.
(2) Installation, maintenance, and repair of solar-tracking systems; installation and maintenance of photovoltaic installations; construction of structures for installation of solar-tracking systems.
(3) Design of solar photovoltaic systems; drafting and development of photovoltaic systems; engineering services for solar-tracking systems; quality evaluation for others in the field of maintenance, repair and installation of photovoltaic modules, solar panels, and solar trackers; design of solar photovoltaic systems, namely, design and planning of solar-tracking systems, and installation of solar-tracking software systems.
06 - Common metals and ores; objects made of metal
07 - Machines and machine tools
09 - Scientific and electric apparatus and instruments
36 - Financial, insurance and real estate services
37 - Construction and mining; installation and repair services
42 - Scientific, technological and industrial services, research and design
Goods & Services
(1) Metal structures for mounting solar panels; metal structures for supporting solar panels, photovoltaic modules, and photovoltaic cells; metal structures for supporting solar panels, photovoltaic modules, and photovoltaic cells, namely, solar tracking systems; roofing of metal, incorporating photovoltaic cells.
(2) Solar trackers, namely, driving motors, other than for land vehicles, for positioning of photovoltaic modules relative to the sun; solar trackers, namely, driving motors, other than for land vehicles, for positioning of photovoltaic modules relative to the sun, and parts and accessories therefor; solar-tracking systems comprised of electric motors for machines for positioning of photovoltaic modules relative to the sun to maximize collection of solar energy; solar-tracking systems consisting of machine motors and gears for automatically tracking the sun and positioning of photovoltaic modules relative to the sun; solar photovoltaic power generation systems using solar trackers, namely, solar-powered electricity generators; solar trackers for solar photovoltaic electric power generation systems comprised of motors, gears, and drives for orienting solar panel.
(3) Photovoltaic systems, namely, electronic control apparatus for positioning photovoltaic modules and mounting structures specially adapted for photovoltaic modules; photovoltaic systems, namely, photovoltaic modules for production of solar energy and mounting structures specially adapted for photovoltaic modules; photovoltaic systems in the nature of solar tracking sensors that track the sun to maximize collection of solar energy; downloadable computer software for controlling movement and positioning of solar trackers; computer hardware and software for controlling movement and positioning of solar trackers; computer software and programs for controlling, regulating and monitoring of photovoltaic modules and solar trackers; solar trackers in the nature of photovoltaic solar modules that track the sun in order to optimize the production of energy from the solar light. (1) Providing extended warranty services for goods, namely, for solar tracking systems pursuant to service agreements.
(2) Installation, maintenance, and repair of solar-tracking systems; installation and maintenance of photovoltaic installations; construction of structures for installation of solar-tracking systems.
(3) Design of solar photovoltaic systems; drafting and development of photovoltaic systems; engineering services for solar-tracking systems; quality evaluation for others in the field of maintenance, repair and installation of photovoltaic modules, solar panels, and solar trackers; design of solar photovoltaic systems, namely, design and planning of solar-tracking systems, and installation of solar-tracking software systems.
67.
Spring counter-balance assemblies and solar trackers incorporating spring counter-balance assemblies
A solar tracker assembly is provided which includes a support column, a torque tube or torsion beam connected to the support column, a mounting mechanism attached to the torque tube or torsion beam, a drive system connected to the torque tube or torsion beam, and a spring counter-balance assembly connected to the torque tube or torsion beam. An exemplary spring counter-balance assembly comprises a bearing housing and a bushing disposed within the bearing housing and configured to be slideably mounted onto the torque tube or torsion beam, and one or more compressible cords made of a flexible material. The compressible cords are located between the bushing and the bearing housing and provide damping during rotational movement of the solar tracker assembly. An exemplary spring counter-balance assembly is provided including at least one top bracket and at least one bottom bracket, at least one spring, a damper, and a bracket. An exemplary spring counter-balance assembly comprises a bearing housing and a bushing disposed within the bearing housing and configured to be slideably mounted onto the torque tube or torsion beam. The spring counter-balance assembly may include at least one coil spring and a rotational stop. The bushing may be made of an elastomeric material and define one or more air spaces.
H02S 20/32 - Supporting structures being movable or adjustable, e.g. for angle adjustment specially adapted for solar tracking
F16M 11/12 - Means for attachment of apparatusMeans allowing adjustment of the apparatus relatively to the stand allowing pivoting in more than one direction
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 30/452 - Arrangements for moving or orienting solar heat collector modules for rotary movement with two rotation axes with vertical primary axis
A solar tracker assembly comprises a support column, a torsion beam connected to the support column, a mounting mechanism attached to the torsion beam, a drive system connected to the torsion beam, and a torsion limiter connected to an output of the drive system. When an external force causes a level of torsion on the drive system to exceed a pre-set limit the torsion limiter facilitates rotational movement of the solar tracker assembly in the direction of the torsion, thereby allowing the external force to rotate about a pivot axis extending through the torsion beam. Exemplary embodiments also include methods of aligning a plurality of rows of solar trackers.
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
F24S 40/00 - Safety or protection arrangements of solar heat collectorsPreventing malfunction of solar heat collectors
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
F24S 30/00 - Arrangements for moving or orienting solar heat collector modules
06 - Common metals and ores; objects made of metal
07 - Machines and machine tools
09 - Scientific and electric apparatus and instruments
35 - Advertising and business services
37 - Construction and mining; installation and repair services
42 - Scientific, technological and industrial services, research and design
Goods & Services
Metal structures for supporting solar panels, photovoltaic modules, and photovoltaic cells, namely, solar tracking systems Solar trackers, namely, driving motors, other than for land vehicles, for positioning of photovoltaic modules relative to the sun, and replacement parts therefor; Solar-tracking systems comprised of electric motors for machines for positioning of photovoltaic modules relative to the sun to maximize collection of solar energy; Solar-tracking systems consisting of machine motors and gears for automatically positioning of photovoltaic modules relative to the sun; Solar trackers for solar photovoltaic electric power generation systems comprised of motors, gears, and drives for orienting solar panels Photovoltaic systems in the nature of solar trackers comprised of automatic solar tracking systems that track the sun to maximize collection of solar energy; Downloadable computer software for controlling movement and positioning of solar trackers; Computer hardware and downloadable software for controlling movement and positioning of solar trackers; downloadable computer software and programs for controlling, regulating and monitoring of photovoltaic modules and solar trackers; Solar trackers in the nature of photovoltaic solar modules for production of electricity that track the sun in order to optimize the production of energy from the solar light; Solar-tracking systems comprised of automatic solar tracking sensors for automatically tracking the sun and positioning of photovoltaic modules relative to the sun Providing warranty services, namely, arranging for repair of solar tracking systems pursuant to service agreements Installation, maintenance, and repair of solar-tracking systems consisting of solar-tracking hardware; Installation and maintenance of photovoltaic installations including solar trackers; Construction of solar-tracking systems, namely, construction of solar power energy plants Design of solar photovoltaic systems including solar trackers; Drafting and development of photovoltaic systems including solar trackers; Engineering services in the field of solar-tracking systems; Quality evaluation for others in the field of maintenance, repair and installation of photovoltaic modules, solar panels, and solar trackers; Design of solar photovoltaic systems, namely, design and planning of solar-tracking systems; Installation of solar-tracking software systems; Installation, maintenance, and repair of solar-tracking software systems
70.
Clip-on mounting rails, mounting brackets, and methods of mounting solar modules
A snap-on mounting bracket assembly suitable for connecting a mounting rail to a torque tube is provided. The mounting bracket assembly includes an upper clamp piece and a lower clamp piece. The upper clamp piece has a first member defining a tube insertion aperture and an open bottom space and includes an upper partial fastener. The lower clamp piece has a second member with a lower partial fastener configured to mate with the upper partial fastener such that the lower clamp piece is attachable to the upper clamp piece. In exemplary embodiments, the lower clamp piece further comprises two opposing support members configured to attach to the mounting rail. Solar tracker assemblies incorporating snap-on open mounting brackets are provided. Methods of mounting framed or unframed solar modules are also described. A mounting rail is attached to an upper clamp piece of a mounting assembly. Then the upper clamp piece is snapped onto a torque tube. A lower clamp piece of the mounting assembly is then attached to the upper clamp piece by mating a lower partial fastener of the lower clamp piece with an upper partial fastener of the upper clamp piece. When the upper and lower clamp pieces are attached, the open bottom space is closed and the mounting rail is secured to the torque tube.
F16M 11/10 - Means for attachment of apparatusMeans allowing adjustment of the apparatus relatively to the stand allowing pivoting around a horizontal axis
F16M 11/18 - Heads with mechanism for moving the apparatus relatively to the stand
F24S 25/60 - Fixation means, e.g. fasteners, specially adapted for supporting solar heat collector modules
71.
Torque limiter devices, systems and methods and solar trackers incorporating torque limiters
A solar tracker assembly comprises a support column, a torsion beam connected to the support column, a mounting mechanism attached to the torsion beam, a drive system connected to the torsion beam, and a torsion limiter connected to an output of the drive system. When an external force causes a level of torsion on the drive system to exceed a pre-set limit the torsion limiter facilitates rotational movement of the solar tracker assembly in the direction of the torsion, thereby allowing the external force to rotate about a pivot axis extending through the torsion beam. Exemplary embodiments also include methods of aligning a plurality of rows of solar trackers.
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
F24S 30/42 - Arrangements for moving or orienting solar heat collector modules for rotary movement with only one rotation axis
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
A solar tracker assembly is provided which includes a support column, a torque tube or torsion beam connected to the support column, a mounting mechanism attached to the torque tube or torsion beam, a drive system connected to the torque tube or torsion beam, and a spring counter¬ balance assembly connected to the torque tube or torsion beam. An exemplary spring counter¬ balance assembly comprises a bearing housing and a bushing disposed within the bearing housing and configured to be slideably mounted onto the torque tube or torsion beam, and one or more compressible cords made of a flexible material. The compressible cords are located between the bushing and the bearing housing and provide damping during rotational movement of the solar tracker assembly. An exemplary spring counter-balance assembly is provided including at least one top bracket and at least one bottom bracket, at least one spring, a damper, and a bracket. An exemplary spring counter-balance assembly comprises a bearing housing and a bushing disposed within the bearing housing and configured to be slideably mounted onto the torque tube or torsion beam. The spring counter-balance assembly may include at least one coil spring and a rotational stop. The bushing may be made of an elastomeric material and define one or more air spaces.
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
F24J 2/38 - employing tracking means (F24J 2/02, F24J 2/06 take precedence;rotary supports or mountings therefor F24J 2/54;supporting structures of photovoltaic modules for generation of electric power specially adapted for solar tracking systems H02S 20/32)
F24J 2/46 - Component parts, details or accessories of solar heat collectors
A solar tracker assembly is provided which includes a support column, a torque tube or torsion beam connected to the support column, a mounting mechanism attached to the torque tube or torsion beam, a drive system connected to the torque tube or torsion beam, and a spring counter-balance assembly connected to the torque tube or torsion beam. An exemplary spring counter-balance assembly comprises a bearing housing and a bushing disposed within the bearing housing and configured to be slideably mounted onto the torque tube or torsion beam, and one or more compressible cords made of a flexible material. The compressible cords are located between the bushing and the bearing housing and provide damping during rotational movement of the solar tracker assembly. An exemplary spring counter-balance assembly is provided including at least one top bracket and at least one bottom bracket, at least one spring, a damper, and a bracket. An exemplary spring counter-balance assembly comprises a bearing housing and a bushing disposed within the bearing housing and configured to be slideably mounted onto the torque tube or torsion beam. The spring counter-balance assembly may include at least one coil spring and a rotational stop. The bushing may be made of an elastomeric material and define one or more air spaces.
H02S 20/32 - Supporting structures being movable or adjustable, e.g. for angle adjustment specially adapted for solar tracking
F16M 11/12 - Means for attachment of apparatusMeans allowing adjustment of the apparatus relatively to the stand allowing pivoting in more than one direction
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 30/452 - Arrangements for moving or orienting solar heat collector modules for rotary movement with two rotation axes with vertical primary axis
A snap-on mounting bracket assembly suitable for connecting a mounting rail to a torque tube is provided. The mounting bracket assembly includes an upper clamp piece and a lower clamp piece. The upper clamp piece has a first member defining a tube insertion aperture and an open bottom space and includes an upper partial fastener. The lower clamp piece has a second member with a lower partial fastener configured to mate with the upper partial fastener such that the lower clamp piece is attachable to the upper clamp piece. In exemplary embodiments, the lower clamp piece further comprises two opposing support members configured to attach to the mounting rail. Solar tracker assemblies incorporating snap-on open mounting brackets are provided. Methods of mounting framed or unframed solar modules are also described. A mounting rail is attached to an upper clamp piece of a mounting assembly. Then the upper clamp piece is snapped onto a torque tube. A lower clamp piece of the mounting assembly is then attached to the upper clamp piece by mating a lower partial fastener of the lower clamp piece with an upper partial fastener of the upper clamp piece. When the upper and lower clamp pieces are attached, the open bottom space is closed and the mounting rail is secured to the torque tube.
A snap-on mounting bracket assembly suitable for connecting a mounting rail to a torque tube is provided. The mounting bracket assembly includes an upper clamp piece and a lower clamp piece. The upper clamp piece has a first member defining a tube insertion aperture and an open bottom space and includes an upper partial fastener. The lower clamp piece has a second member with a lower partial fastener configured to mate with the upper partial fastener such that the lower clamp piece is attachable to the upper clamp piece. In exemplary embodiments, the lower clamp piece further comprises two opposing support members configured to attach to the mounting rail. Solar tracker assemblies incorporating snap-on open mounting brackets are provided. Methods of mounting framed or unframed solar modules are also described. A mounting rail is attached to an upper clamp piece of a mounting assembly. Then the upper clamp piece is snapped onto a torque tube. A lower clamp piece of the mounting assembly is then attached to the upper clamp piece by mating a lower partial fastener of the lower clamp piece with an upper partial fastener of the upper clamp piece. When the upper and lower clamp pieces are attached, the open bottom space is closed and the mounting rail is secured to the torque tube.
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 apparatusMeans allowing adjustment of the apparatus relatively to the stand allowing pivoting around a horizontal axis
F16M 11/18 - Heads with mechanism for moving the apparatus relatively to the stand
A mounting bracket assembly is provided in which a mounting bracket includes a first attachable bracket piece and a second attachable bracket piece, a first fastener, a second fastener, and a third fastener. Each attachable bracket piece has a top member and a bottom member connected to the top member at an angle. The first clamp is attached to the top member of the first attachable bracket piece by the first fastener. The second clamp is attached to the top member of the second attachable bracket piece by a second fastener. The third fastener secures the bottom member of the first attachable bracket piece to the bottom member of the second attachable bracket piece. The mounting bracket defines a beam insertion aperture between the top members and the bottom members. The mounting bracket assembly may include a grounding device located adjacent the top member of the first or second attachable bracket piece.
A solar tracker assembly comprises a support column, a torsion beam connected to the support column, a mounting mechanism attached to the torsion beam, a drive system connected to the torsion beam, and a torsion limiter connected to an output of the drive system. When an external force causes a level of torsion on the drive system to exceed a pre-set limit the torsion limiter facilitates rotational movement of the solar tracker assembly in the direction of the torsion, thereby allowing the external force to rotate about a pivot axis extending through the torsion beam. Exemplary embodiments also include methods of aligning a plurality of rows of solar trackers.
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
F24S 40/00 - Safety or protection arrangements of solar heat collectorsPreventing malfunction of solar heat collectors
A solar tracking system with a plurality of tracking assemblies moved by a single motor. A method and system that prevents overloading the motor or tripping a circuit breaker due to an obstructed or impeded tracker includes sensing movement of the tracker assemblies and entering into obstruction clearing modes. Obstruction clearing mode 1 (OCM1) is a high frequency adjustable mode that prompts movement for an adjustable period of time. If movement commences, the system returns to a normal mode. If there is no movement, the system enters into an obstruction clearing mode 2 (OCM2) with is an adjustable lower frequency series of attempts. If there is no movement, no further attempts are made. Each of these steps are monitored and controlled remotely. There are two types of secure connections for drivelines, torque tubes or affixing driveline linkages for high torque conditions.
F24J 2/38 - employing tracking means (F24J 2/02, F24J 2/06 take precedence;rotary supports or mountings therefor F24J 2/54;supporting structures of photovoltaic modules for generation of electric power specially adapted for solar tracking systems H02S 20/32)
F24J 2/46 - Component parts, details or accessories of solar heat collectors
A mounting bracket assembly is provided in which a mounting bracket includes a first attachable bracket piece and a second attachable bracket piece, a first fastener, a second fastener, and a third fastener. Each attachable bracket piece has a top member and a bottom member connected to the top member at an angle. The first clamp is attached to the top member of the first attachable bracket piece by the first fastener. The second clamp is attached to the top member of the second attachable bracket piece by a second fastener. The third fastener secures the bottom member of the first attachable bracket piece to the bottom member of the second attachable bracket piece. The mounting bracket defines a beam insertion aperture between the top members and the bottom members. The mounting bracket assembly may include a first integral grounding device located adjacent the top member of the first attachable bracket piece or adjacent the top member of the second attachable bracket piece. The first integral grounding device is configured to electrically bond a frame of an electricity generating device to the mounting bracket assembly. The mounting bracket assembly may further include a second integral grounding device configured to electrically bond a torque tube to the mounting bracket assembly.
A solar tracker assembly comprises a support column, a torsion beam connected to the support column, a mounting mechanism attached to the torsion beam, a drive system connected to the torsion beam, and a torsion limiter connected to an output of the drive system. When an external force causes a level of torsion on the drive system to exceed a pre-set limit the torsion limiter facilitates rotational movement of the solar tracker assembly in the direction of the torsion, thereby allowing the external force to rotate about a pivot axis extending through the torsion beam. Exemplary embodiments also include methods of aligning a plurality of rows of solar trackers.
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
F24J 2/46 - Component parts, details or accessories of solar heat collectors
A mounting bracket assembly comprises a flexible body including at least one top member and a flexible angled bottom member connected to the top member. The flexible body defines a beam insertion aperture between the top member and the bottom member. The mounting bracket assembly further comprises at least one clamp attached to the top member. The mounting bracket assembly may further comprise a threaded rod running through the at least one top member and a clamping nut securing the threaded rod to the top member such that rotating the clamping nut compresses the top member and grounds an electricity generating device such as a photovoltaic module. The mounting bracket assembly may further comprise an integral grounding device disposed adjacent the top member to electrically ground the electricity generating device.
A solar tracking system with a torque tube supporting solar panels. Columns support the system and have bearings for rotation of the torque tube. A drive is coupled to the torque tube and is driven by a gearbox, such as a worm gear assembly, for rotating the array of solar panels to follow the sun's diurnal motion. The array can rotate in an opposite direction, or backtrack, to prevent shadowing from one module row to another. Multiple gearboxes can be mechanically linked by drive shafts and driven by a single motor. The drive shafts may incorporate universal joints for uneven terrain or staggered configurations. Harmonic dampers can be affixed to the solar panels to decouple wind forces which allows the use of larger solar panels.
F24J 2/38 - employing tracking means (F24J 2/02, F24J 2/06 take precedence;rotary supports or mountings therefor F24J 2/54;supporting structures of photovoltaic modules for generation of electric power specially adapted for solar tracking systems H02S 20/32)
