Abrégé

A method of embedding a threaded foundation component in ground with a layer of reactive soil with a combined drilling and driving machine includes: with an automated controller executing a control program, controlling the machine to begin an automated embedment operation to drive a threaded foundation component into a reactive soil; with the automated controller, controlling the machine to decouple a feed rate of the component from a rotary speed rate of the component to cause sheering of the soil around the foundation component by threads of the foundation component; and with the automated controller, controlling the machine to recouple the feed rate of the component to rotary speed rate of the component to reduce sheering of the soil around the foundation component by the threads of the foundation component until a target embedment depth for the foundation component is reached.

Classes IPC  ?

• E02D 7/22 - Mise en place par vissage
• E02D 5/56 - Pieux à vis
• F24S 25/617 - Éléments enfoncés dans le sol, p. ex. pieux d’ancrageFondations pour supporter les élémentsConnecteurs pour joindre les supports de structures au sol ou aux surfaces plates horizontales

Abrégé

A method of embedding a threaded foundation component in ground with a layer of reactive soil with a combined drilling and driving machine includes: with an automated controller executing a control program, controlling the machine to begin an automated embedment operation to drive a threaded foundation component into a reactive soil; with the automated controller, controlling the machine to decouple a feed rate of the component from a rotary speed rate of the component to cause sheering of the soil around the foundation component by threads of the foundation component; and with the automated controller, controlling the machine to recouple the feed rate of the component to rotary speed rate of the component to reduce sheering of the soil around the foundation component by the threads of the foundation component until a target embedment depth for the foundation component is reached.

Classes IPC  ?

• E02D 7/26 - Mise en place par l'utilisation simultanée de plusieurs procédés
• E02D 5/80 - Ancres de fondation

Abrégé

Disclosed is a foundation component having an elongated open shaft, an external thread form beginning at a first end and extending along the shaft, a driving coupler at a second end, opposite to the first end, and a cone received by the first end and extending from the first end. The cone is of a material having a lower elastic modulus than the elongated open shaft.

Classes IPC  ?

• E02D 5/56 - Pieux à vis
• E02D 5/72 - Sabots de pieux
• E02D 7/22 - Mise en place par vissage

Abrégé

A crimper for joining truss leg components to form a unitary truss foundation with the ground without needing mechanical fasteners. A crimping tool has upper and lower crimp guides that register the position of jaws on the crimping tool with respect to grooves formed in a connecting portion of a truss cap and in a driving coupler of a driven screw anchor. Registering the position of the jaws ensures that blind crimps between the upper leg and screw anchor and upper leg and truss cap are performed consistently each time.

Classes IPC  ?

• F24S 25/13 - Agencements de profilés, p. ex. treillis
• F24S 30/425 - Axe horizontal
• F24S 50/20 - Agencements pour commander les collecteurs de chaleur solaire pour le suivi
• H02S 20/10 - Structures de support directement fixées sur le sol
• H02S 20/32 - Structures de support mobiles ou réglables, p. ex. pour réglage de l’angle spécialement adaptées pour le suivi du soleil

Abrégé

Disclosed is a foundation component having an elongated open shaft, an external thread form beginning at a first end and extending along the shaft, a driving coupler at a second end, opposite to the first end, and a cone received by the first end and extending from the first end. The cone is of a material having a lower elastic modulus than the elongated open shaft.

Classes IPC  ?

• E02D 5/80 - Ancres de fondation
• E02D 5/56 - Pieux à vis
• E02D 7/22 - Mise en place par vissage

Abrégé

An automated driving and assembly machine for driving foundation components, such as screw anchors, and for assembling foundations, such as truss foundations, using the driven screw anchors. The machine has a rotary driver and a hydraulic drilling tool. Sensors monitoring hydraulic pressure at the drilling tool will take incremental pressure readings during a driving operation. If the readings become clustered around a relative maximum, the controller will pause the driving operation and begin a drill stall mitigation sub-routine. This may involve retracting the drill and then hammering and releasing pressurized air to clear the stall. Clearance of the stall may also be derived by the controller from pressure readings. If the relative maximum is below a predetermined threshold, this is indicative of a malfunction of the hydraulic system. As a result, the controller will generate a service flag for the hydraulic system to a user interface of the machine to alert an operator of the need to have the machine serviced.

Classes IPC  ?

• E02D 7/14 - Éléments de sonnettes
• E02D 13/00 - Accessoires pour la mise en place ou l'enlèvement de pieux ou de rideaux de palplanches
• E21B 44/00 - Systèmes de commande automatique spécialement adaptés aux opérations de forage, c.-à-d. systèmes à fonctionnement autonome ayant pour rôle d'exécuter ou de modifier une opération de forage sans l'intervention d'un opérateur humain, p. ex. systèmes de forage commandés par ordinateurSystèmes spécialement adaptés à la surveillance de plusieurs variables ou conditions de forage

Abrégé

A one-piece truss adapter for supporting single-axis trackers with truss foundations. A upside-down Y-shaped structure has bearing support portion and an opposing pair of legs with an angularly adjustable connector for securely joining the one-piece adapter to a pair of driven screw anchors at different angular orientations. Each leg terminates in a connector that is received in a socket integral to a driving coupler at the head of each screw anchor. A retaining nut may hold the connector in place to complete the angularly adjustable assembly.

Classes IPC  ?

• E04C 3/38 - Poutres en arc ou cadres de portiques
• E04B 1/32 - ArcsVoûtesStructures gauches
• E04C 3/02 - PoutrellesSolives, fermes ou structures analogues à des fermes, p. ex. préfabriquéesLinteauxTraverses

Abrégé

Methods of method of making a portable crimping device for joining foundation components are disclosed. A portable crimper transfers hydraulic forces back into the hydraulic cylinder and not just into a pinned or fixed connection supporting it. To withstand these forces, the cylinder is milled out of a single piece of source metal and the arm that transfers the forces is joined to the cylinder via pair of flanges extending the entire length of the cylinder to distribute them over a wider surface area.

Classes IPC  ?

• B25B 27/02 - Outils à main ou outillage d'établi, spécialement conçus pour assembler ou séparer des pièces ou des objets, que cela entraîne ou non une certaine déformation, non prévus ailleurs pour assembler des objets par ajustage à la presse, ou pour les détacher

Abrégé

A combined truss adapter and bearing assembly for a tracker. The truss adapter has a pair of connecting portions and a bridge portion. The bridge portion has two pairs of opposing channels. The assembly has adapter plates on opposing surfaces of the bridge portion. Bolts extend through the adapter plates, in the channels, and to the bearing assembly to secure the bearing assembly to the bridge portion and to enable the bearing assembly to pivot with respect to the bridge portion.

Classes IPC  ?

• H02S 20/10 - Structures de support directement fixées sur le sol

Abrégé

A combined truss adapter and bearing for a single-axis tracker. The truss adapter has a pair of connecting portions joined together by a bridge. A pair of parallel flanges on the bridge extend upward and away from bridge to support flanges of a bearing assembly. Bolts passing through the flanges and bearing assembly enable the bearing assembly to be rotated with respect to the bridge portion.

Classes IPC  ?

• H02S 20/10 - Structures de support directement fixées sur le sol

Abrégé

A truss foundation for single-axis trackers that are installed in climates that experience significant frost heave. In some cases, truss legs are oriented plumb, to eliminate adfreeze moment on below-ground components in the frost zone. Different truss caps may be used depending on the type of single-axis tracker and/or tracker component is supported. In some cases, truss legs may curve just before entering the ground. In others, below-ground and above-ground components may extend along the same axis and remain plump with the truss cap providing additional elevation to for the tracker to clear the wider truss legs.

Classes IPC  ?

• H02S 20/32 - Structures de support mobiles ou réglables, p. ex. pour réglage de l’angle spécialement adaptées pour le suivi du soleil
• F24S 25/00 - Agencement de montages ou de supports fixes pour des modules de collecteurs de chaleur solaire
• F24S 25/10 - Agencement de montages ou de supports fixes pour des modules de collecteurs de chaleur solaire se dressant dans des directions opposées à la surface de support
• F24S 25/617 - Éléments enfoncés dans le sol, p. ex. pieux d’ancrageFondations pour supporter les élémentsConnecteurs pour joindre les supports de structures au sol ou aux surfaces plates horizontales
• H02S 20/10 - Structures de support directement fixées sur le sol

Abrégé

In a machine for driving screw anchors and other foundation components, a desired embedment depth is calculated based on a minimum required embedment depth, work point height and length of available upper leg sections. Once calculated, the machine automatically drives the screw anchor to the depth so that one of the available upper leg lengths will fit between the driven screw anchor and apex truss hardware. If a secondary condition is satisfied that guarantees sufficient pull-out strength, a new upper leg length may be selected and the driving operation terminated prior to reaching the desired embedment depth, reducing the amount of material necessary to construct the truss foundation.

Classes IPC  ?

• E02D 7/22 - Mise en place par vissage
• E02D 5/56 - Pieux à vis

Abrégé

A truss foundation for single-axis trackers that are installed in climates that experience frost heave or reactive soils. Truss legs are oriented to be substantially plumb, to eliminate adfreeze moment on below-ground components in the frost zone. Elbow couplers are attached to the upper end of each embedded component and used to change the leg angle from plumb to angled.

Classes IPC  ?

• H02S 20/32 - Structures de support mobiles ou réglables, p. ex. pour réglage de l’angle spécialement adaptées pour le suivi du soleil
• F16M 11/10 - Moyens pour la fixation des appareilsMoyens permettant le réglage des appareils par rapport au banc permettant la rotation autour d'un axe horizontal
• F16M 11/18 - Têtes des supports avec mécanisme déplaçant les appareils par rapport au banc

Abrégé

An assembly for a truss foundation embedment and installation machine. The machine mast has a rotary driver, target assembly, and a truss component holder. After a pair of foundation components are embedded, the truss component holder is moved to an orientation location that aligns the rotational axis of a specific tracker bearing with respect to a work point of the truss foundation. A truss cap is placed on the truss component holder and held in place while upper leg sections are sleeved over the truss cap and down onto the embedded foundation components. A hydraulic crimper is used to crimp the portions of each upper leg section that overlap with the truss cap and the embedded foundation components to unify the truss foundation.

Classes IPC  ?

• E02D 7/14 - Éléments de sonnettes
• B23P 19/10 - Alignement de pièces qui doivent être assemblées entre elles
• E02D 5/80 - Ancres de fondation
• E02D 7/22 - Mise en place par vissage
• E02D 13/00 - Accessoires pour la mise en place ou l'enlèvement de pieux ou de rideaux de palplanches
• H02S 20/32 - Structures de support mobiles ou réglables, p. ex. pour réglage de l’angle spécialement adaptées pour le suivi du soleil

Produits et services

Machines for assembling and installing solar foundation systems to support solar panels, equipped with a grade control system, GPS receivers, computer hardware, software, and firmware for the transmission of data, the correction of data and navigation for use in the solar industry.

Abrégé

Bearing adapters for use with truss foundations supporting mechanically balanced single-axis trackers. The bearing adapter joins the free ends of a pair of adjacent truss legs to form a rigid A-frame shaped foundation structure. A bearing is formed in an upper portion of the bearing adapter to allow a torque tube to be suspended from a pin in the bearing and to swing through an arc bounded by the bearing adapter. The bearing may have a catenoid shape to compensate for misalignment in multiple directions.

Classes IPC  ?

• H02S 20/32 - Structures de support mobiles ou réglables, p. ex. pour réglage de l’angle spécialement adaptées pour le suivi du soleil
• E02D 5/80 - Ancres de fondation

Abrégé

A crimper for joining truss leg components to form a unitary truss foundation with the ground without needing mechanical fasteners. A crimping tool has upper and lower crimp guides that register the position of jaws on the crimping tool with respect to grooves formed in a connecting portion of a truss cap and in a driving coupler of a driven screw anchor. Registering the position of the jaws ensures that blind crimps between the upper leg and screw anchor and upper leg and truss cap are performed consistently each time.

Classes IPC  ?

• F24S 25/00 - Agencement de montages ou de supports fixes pour des modules de collecteurs de chaleur solaire
• F24S 25/13 - Agencements de profilés, p. ex. treillis
• F24S 30/425 - Axe horizontal
• F24S 50/20 - Agencements pour commander les collecteurs de chaleur solaire pour le suivi
• H02S 20/10 - Structures de support directement fixées sur le sol
• H02S 20/32 - Structures de support mobiles ou réglables, p. ex. pour réglage de l’angle spécialement adaptées pour le suivi du soleil

Abrégé

A method for installing and assembling a truss foundation to support a single-axis solar tracker. A positioning subsystem determines an orientation of a machine mast's driving axis relative to an intended drive axis and controls the mast to be positioned so that the mast's driving axis is aligned with the intended drive axis of the screw anchor foundation component. After a pair of adjacent screw anchors are driven, the controller causes motion controllers to orient the mast so that an alignment jig for supporting truss apex hardware is held in place relative to the driven screw anchors at a predetermined point in space above them so that upper leg sections can be sleeved over connecting portions of the apex hardware and down on to the driven screw anchors.

Classes IPC  ?

• E02D 7/22 - Mise en place par vissage
• E02D 13/00 - Accessoires pour la mise en place ou l'enlèvement de pieux ou de rideaux de palplanches
• E02D 5/56 - Pieux à vis

Abrégé

Improved masts for solar pile driving machines are provided that incorporate inline drilling as well as alignment and assembly devices that enable greater positional accuracy than possible with conventional equipment. In some cases, a jig, holder, or other device on the mast of the machine can be used to place a bearing assembly for a single-axis tracker while the foundation is being installed. Also disclosed are various multi-piece foundation piles that enable positional adjustment between below and above-ground components to compensate for misalignment.

Classes IPC  ?

• E02D 5/28 - Pieux préfabriqués en acier
• E02D 5/80 - Ancres de fondation
• E02D 27/32 - Fondations pour des buts particuliers
• E02D 27/12 - Fondations sur pieux
• E02D 7/26 - Mise en place par l'utilisation simultanée de plusieurs procédés

Abrégé

An automated driving and assembly machine for driving foundation components, such as screw anchors, and for assembling foundations, such as truss foundations, using the driven screw anchors. The machine has a rotary driver and a hydraulic drilling tool. Sensors monitoring hydraulic pressure at the drilling tool will take incremental pressure readings during a driving operation. If the readings become clustered around a relative maximum, the controller will pause the driving operation and begin a drill stall mitigation sub-routine. This may involve retracting the drill and then hammering and releasing pressurized air to clear the stall. Clearance of the stall may also be derived by the controller from pressure readings.

Classes IPC  ?

• E02D 7/22 - Mise en place par vissage

Abrégé

An automated driving and assembly machine for driving foundation components, such as screw anchors, and for assembling foundations, such as truss foundations, using the driven screw anchors. The machine has a rotary driver and a hydraulic drilling tool. Sensors monitoring hydraulic pressure at the drilling tool will take incremental pressure readings during a driving operation. If the readings become clustered around a relative maximum, the controller will pause the driving operation and begin a drill stall mitigation sub-routine. This may involve retracting the drill and then hammering and releasing pressurized air to clear the stall. Clearance of the stall may also be derived by the controller from pressure readings.

Classes IPC  ?

• E02D 7/06 - Sonnettes mécaniques
• E02D 5/80 - Ancres de fondation
• E02D 13/04 - Dispositifs de guidageCadres de guidage

Produits et services

Machines for assembling and installing solar foundation systems to support solar panels, equipped with a grade control system, GPS receivers, computer hardware, software, and firmware for the transmission of data, the correction of data and navigation for use in the solar industry

Abrégé

Fixed-tilt solar arrays constructed from screw anchors. A row of truss foundation is installed, with each foundation consisting of a pair of adjacent angled truss legs. A truss cap or adapter joins the legs and provides a support structure to support a rail that in turn supports purlins extending between adjacent, spaced apart truss foundations. Solar panels are attached directly to the purlins using clamps or other conventional mounting systems.

Classes IPC  ?

• H02S 20/30 - Structures de support mobiles ou réglables, p. ex. pour réglage de l’angle
• F24S 25/617 - Éléments enfoncés dans le sol, p. ex. pieux d’ancrageFondations pour supporter les élémentsConnecteurs pour joindre les supports de structures au sol ou aux surfaces plates horizontales
• F24S 25/30 - Agencement de montages ou de supports fixes pour des modules de collecteurs de chaleur solaire utilisant des éléments de fixation rigides et allongés s’étendant substantiellement le long de la surface de montage, p. ex. pour couvrir les bâtiments avec des collecteurs de chaleur solaire
• F24S 25/16 - Agencement de structures dressées interconnectéesStructures dressées comprenant des portions de support séparées pour des modules adjacents
• E02D 5/80 - Ancres de fondation
• F24S 25/12 - Agencement de montages ou de supports fixes pour des modules de collecteurs de chaleur solaire se dressant dans des directions opposées à la surface de support utilisant des poteaux combinés à des profilés supérieurs

Abrégé

An alignment and installation jig for a screw anchor driving machine. The alignment and installation jig includes a laser target that can be moved from an alignment position to a driving position. The jig may also include one or more automated crimping assemblies to form permanent connections between overlapping foundation components while the machine is correctly oriented to assembly a truss foundation. One crimping assembly device may effect crimp joints between a foundation component held by the jig and overlapping upper ends of a pair of adjacent foundation legs. Second crimping assemblies may telescope down each leg to effect respective crimp joints between the lower end of the leg and the upper end of a driven foundation component.

Classes IPC  ?

• E02D 7/14 - Éléments de sonnettes
• B23P 19/10 - Alignement de pièces qui doivent être assemblées entre elles
• E02D 5/80 - Ancres de fondation
• E02D 7/22 - Mise en place par vissage
• E02D 13/04 - Dispositifs de guidageCadres de guidage
• H02S 20/32 - Structures de support mobiles ou réglables, p. ex. pour réglage de l’angle spécialement adaptées pour le suivi du soleil
• E02D 13/00 - Accessoires pour la mise en place ou l'enlèvement de pieux ou de rideaux de palplanches

Abrégé

A universal adapter for enabling truss foundations to support conventional single-axis trackers. In some cases, the adapter has a main body with an upper portion that presents a standard I-beam interface with pre-drilled holes to interface to a specific single-axis tracker. A pair of connecting portions point down and away from the main body and enable upper leg sections to connect the adapter to a pair of driven screw anchors located below it. The connecting portions may orient the truss so that the rotational axis of the single-axis tracker is aligned with the work point of the truss foundation made from the adapter, upper legs, and driven screw anchors. This will enable to the truss to interface with many different trackers much like conventional plumb-driven H-pile foundations.

Classes IPC  ?

• H02S 20/32 - Structures de support mobiles ou réglables, p. ex. pour réglage de l’angle spécialement adaptées pour le suivi du soleil
• E02D 5/80 - Ancres de fondation
• F24S 25/61 - Moyens de fixation, p. ex. moyens d’assemblage, spécialement adaptés pour supporter des modules de collecteurs de chaleur solaire pour ancrer au sol ou à la structure d’un bâtiment
• F24S 25/617 - Éléments enfoncés dans le sol, p. ex. pieux d’ancrageFondations pour supporter les élémentsConnecteurs pour joindre les supports de structures au sol ou aux surfaces plates horizontales
• F24S 30/425 - Axe horizontal
• H02S 20/10 - Structures de support directement fixées sur le sol
• F24S 30/00 - Agencements pour mouvoir ou orienter des modules de collecteurs de chaleur solaire

Abrégé

A machine for driving a pair of screw anchors at substantially the same time. An attachment supports a pair of independent drive assemblies. Each assembly consists of a rotary driver and tool driver that moves along respective driving arms to independently drive a pair of screw anchors into supporting ground at different angles. Each assembly may move with respect to the machine independently to drive anchors into the ground in overlapping time, or both may rotate at once to drive anchors into the ground sequentially.

Classes IPC  ?

• E02D 7/06 - Sonnettes mécaniques
• E02D 7/22 - Mise en place par vissage
• E02D 7/26 - Mise en place par l'utilisation simultanée de plusieurs procédés
• E02D 27/16 - Fondations formées de pieux séparés
• E02D 5/28 - Pieux préfabriqués en acier
• E02D 5/54 - Pieux ayant des supports ou des éléments d'ancrage préfabriquésPieux d'ancrage
• E02D 5/56 - Pieux à vis
• E02D 5/80 - Ancres de fondation
• E02D 27/50 - Fondations ancrées

Abrégé

A passive locking chuck for a rotary driver. The chuck receives the driving end of a foundation component such a screw anchor to be driven into the ground. As the driving end is inserted into the chuck, spring biased pawls are displaced until insertion is complete. The geometry of each pawl dictates that less force is required to insert the foundation component than to remove it. The chuck has a geometry that mates with the geometry of the driving end of the foundation component.

Classes IPC  ?

• E02D 7/22 - Mise en place par vissage

Abrégé

An automated feedback-based system for driving foundation components to a desired embedment depth. A digital controller executing a stored control program controls driving components arranged on a mast of the driving machine including a drive chain motor, a rotary driver, a tool driver, and a source of compressed air. An array of sensors provides real-time feedback to a digital controller about the automated driving operation that enables the controller to adjust the operation of one or more of the driving components based on real-time driving conditions.

Classes IPC  ?

• E02D 7/22 - Mise en place par vissage
• E02D 13/00 - Accessoires pour la mise en place ou l'enlèvement de pieux ou de rideaux de palplanches
• E02D 7/24 - Mise en place par utilisation de jets de fluides

Abrégé

A two-piece truss leg system for an A-frame-shaped truss foundation system for single-axis trackers. A driving coupler at the head of each screw anchor used to drive the component into the ground as well as to join the upper leg component to the screw anchor. A connecting portion of the coupler extending above a main body of the coupler is received within an open end of an upper leg component. A curved outer surface of the connecting portion enables the upper leg component to be angularly adjusted relative to the screw anchor. A channel in the connecting portions enables the upper leg component to be deformed into the channel with a crimp connecting.

Classes IPC  ?

• F24S 25/00 - Agencement de montages ou de supports fixes pour des modules de collecteurs de chaleur solaire
• F24S 25/13 - Agencements de profilés, p. ex. treillis
• F24S 30/425 - Axe horizontal
• F24S 50/20 - Agencements pour commander les collecteurs de chaleur solaire pour le suivi
• H02S 20/10 - Structures de support directement fixées sur le sol
• H02S 20/32 - Structures de support mobiles ou réglables, p. ex. pour réglage de l’angle spécialement adaptées pour le suivi du soleil

Abrégé

A one-piece truss adapter for supporting single-axis trackers with truss foundations. A upside-down Y-shaped structure has bearing support portion and an opposing pair of legs with an angularly adjustable connector for securely joining the one-piece adapter to a pair of driven screw anchors at different angular orientations. Each leg terminates in a connector that is received in a socket integral to a driving coupler at the head of each screw anchor. A retaining nut may hold the connector in place to complete the angularly adjustable assembly.

Classes IPC  ?

• E04C 3/38 - Poutres en arc ou cadres de portiques
• E04C 3/02 - PoutrellesSolives, fermes ou structures analogues à des fermes, p. ex. préfabriquéesLinteauxTraverses
• E04B 1/32 - ArcsVoûtesStructures gauches

Abrégé

A portable crimping device and method of making such a crimping device is disclosed. A portable crimper transfers hydraulic forces back into the hydraulic cylinder and not just into a pinned or fixed connection supporting it. To withstand these forces, the cylinder is milled out of a single piece of source metal and the arm that transfers the forces is joined to the cylinder via pair of flanges extending the entire length of the cylinder to distribute them over a wider surface area.

Classes IPC  ?

• B25B 27/02 - Outils à main ou outillage d'établi, spécialement conçus pour assembler ou séparer des pièces ou des objets, que cela entraîne ou non une certaine déformation, non prévus ailleurs pour assembler des objets par ajustage à la presse, ou pour les détacher

Abrégé

Adjustable bearing supports for single-axis trackers supported by truss foundations. A two-piece assembly joins a pair of adjacent truss legs to form a rigid foundation while providing a movable support for a tracker bearing housing assembly or other structure. The movable support may slide in-plane, or alternatively, enable the bearing housing assembly to slide and rotate with respect to the truss cap structure joining the adjacent truss legs.

Classes IPC  ?

• G01S 3/786 - Systèmes pour déterminer une direction ou une déviation par rapport à une direction prédéterminée utilisant le réglage d'une orientation des caractéristiques de directivité d'un détecteur ou d'un système de détecteurs afin d'obtenir une valeur désirée du signal provenant de ce détecteur ou de ce système de détecteurs la valeur désirée étant maintenue automatiquement
• F16M 11/12 - Moyens pour la fixation des appareilsMoyens permettant le réglage des appareils par rapport au banc permettant la rotation dans plus d'une direction
• H02S 20/32 - Structures de support mobiles ou réglables, p. ex. pour réglage de l’angle spécialement adaptées pour le suivi du soleil

Abrégé

A foundation system for manufactured homes, prefabricated houses, and other structures. Multiple screw anchors are driven into the ground at the desired location of the structure. Preformed grade bars may be placed over the screw anchors to provide a modular foundation without pouring concrete or digging footers. Alternatively, adapters may be attached to one or more of the driven screw anchors to provide a pedestal to receive the grade bar or prefabricated sections of concrete.

Classes IPC  ?

• E02D 27/16 - Fondations formées de pieux séparés
• E02D 27/32 - Fondations pour des buts particuliers

Abrégé

An automated control system for a screw anchor driving and truss assembly machine. A positioning subsystem determines an orientation of a machine mast's driving axis relative to an intended drive axis and controls the mast to be positioned so that the mast's driving axis is aligned with the intended drive axis of the screw anchor foundation component. After a pair of adjacent screw anchors are driven, the controller causes motion controllers to orient the mast so that an alignment jig for supporting truss apex hardware is held in place relative to the driven screw anchors at a predetermined point in space above them so that upper leg sections can be sleeved over connecting portions of the apex hardware and down on to the driven screw anchors.

Classes IPC  ?

• E02D 7/22 - Mise en place par vissage
• E02D 5/56 - Pieux à vis
• E02D 13/00 - Accessoires pour la mise en place ou l'enlèvement de pieux ou de rideaux de palplanches

Abrégé

Systems and methods for quickly and securely interconnecting foundation components when axially misaligned without hydraulic tools. Upper to lower leg connections are made with threaded connections or with ball and socket connections that permit angular adjustment. One or more retaining nuts bias the connection to lock it in place at the desired orientation. Foundation component to single-axis tracker connections are facilitated by various wedge and clamp connector assemblies that rely on mechanical engagement to lock components in place and resist axial forces. Other connections are made with hemispherical washers and adapter plates that enable rigid connections through a range of angles.

Classes IPC  ?

• E02D 5/80 - Ancres de fondation

Abrégé

A solar power plant is constructed using a reverse workflow whereby the grid connection that will ultimately feed electricity to the grid is constructed before the array so that one or more transformers and portable charging stations may be deployed onsite to transform grid power so that it can recharge electrically powered heavy equipment including solar pile drivers, truss drivers, and telehandlers as well as electrically powered hand tools such as cordless impact drivers while the plant is constructed. Once complete, the fixed electrical infrastructure and grid connection are used to supply power from the solar power plant to the grid.

Classes IPC  ?

• H02S 10/00 - Centrales électriques PVCombinaisons de systèmes d’énergie PV avec d’autres systèmes pour la production d’énergie électrique
• H02J 7/02 - Circuits pour la charge ou la dépolarisation des batteries ou pour alimenter des charges par des batteries pour la charge des batteries par réseaux à courant alternatif au moyen de convertisseurs
• B60L 53/30 - Détails de construction des stations de charge
• B60L 53/51 - Panneaux photovoltaïques

Abrégé

An A-frame shaped truss foundation system for a single-axis tracker with moderately sloped legs that translate lateral loads into tension and compression without substantially increasing the magnitude of the lateral load force while optimizing material usage. Several such truss foundation systems are installed in a row to support a torque tube of a single-axis solar tracker. An adapter joins ends of adjacent upper legs and separates the truss legs by an angle more than 35-degrees up to 70-degrees. In some cases, the adapter may have an integrated bearing.

Classes IPC  ?

• F24S 25/00 - Agencement de montages ou de supports fixes pour des modules de collecteurs de chaleur solaire
• F24S 25/617 - Éléments enfoncés dans le sol, p. ex. pieux d’ancrageFondations pour supporter les élémentsConnecteurs pour joindre les supports de structures au sol ou aux surfaces plates horizontales
• H02S 20/32 - Structures de support mobiles ou réglables, p. ex. pour réglage de l’angle spécialement adaptées pour le suivi du soleil
• F24S 25/13 - Agencements de profilés, p. ex. treillis
• F24S 30/425 - Axe horizontal
• F24S 30/00 - Agencements pour mouvoir ou orienter des modules de collecteurs de chaleur solaire

Abrégé

In a machine for driving screw anchors and other foundation components, a desired embedment depth is calculated based on a minimum required embedment depth, work point height and length of available upper leg sections. Once calculated, the machine automatically drives the screw anchor to the depth so that one of the available upper leg lengths will fit between the driven screw anchor and apex truss hardware. If a secondary condition is satisfied that guarantees sufficient pull-out strength, a new upper leg length may be selected and the driving operation terminated prior to reaching the desired embedment depth, reducing the amount of material necessary to construct the truss foundation.

Classes IPC  ?

• E02D 7/22 - Mise en place par vissage
• E02D 5/56 - Pieux à vis
• H02S 20/10 - Structures de support directement fixées sur le sol
• E02D 33/00 - Test des fondations

Abrégé

A single-axis solar tracker consisting of a series of A-frame shaped foundation with actuators attached to each leg that are connected at one end to a common rotating assembly supporting multiple solar panels. Concerted action of the actuators causes the common rotating assembly to rotate about an axis of rotation. The system may include a central torque tube supported by the series of A-frame foundations or a frame assembly that is hingedly attached to each A-frame foundation via a torque arm.

Classes IPC  ?

• H02S 20/32 - Structures de support mobiles ou réglables, p. ex. pour réglage de l’angle spécialement adaptées pour le suivi du soleil
• H02S 20/30 - Structures de support mobiles ou réglables, p. ex. pour réglage de l’angle
• H02S 30/10 - Structures de bâti
• F16M 11/10 - Moyens pour la fixation des appareilsMoyens permettant le réglage des appareils par rapport au banc permettant la rotation autour d'un axe horizontal

Abrégé

A center structure support for single-axis trackers to support tracker driver motors and tracker center structures that transfer torque across rows to enable a single tracker motor to rotate the torque tubes of several adjacent rows. A pair of driven screw anchors are joined above ground with a center structure support and a pair of clamp assemblies that capture the driving coupler at the upper end of each screw anchor. The clamp assemblies are captured in distal ends of the center structure support via bolts that enable adjustment center structure relative to the driven legs.

Classes IPC  ?

• F24S 25/13 - Agencements de profilés, p. ex. treillis
• F24S 50/20 - Agencements pour commander les collecteurs de chaleur solaire pour le suivi
• H02S 20/32 - Structures de support mobiles ou réglables, p. ex. pour réglage de l’angle spécialement adaptées pour le suivi du soleil
• H02S 30/10 - Structures de bâti

Abrégé

A coupler for joining truss leg components provides angular adjustability between the respective axis of the leg components. A prolate spheroid-shaped coupler with three channels circumscribing its surface enables the upper leg components to compensate for axial misalignment of driven screw anchors in all directions. A hydraulic crimping device with upper and lower crimping guides registers its position with features on the truss hardware to insure that blind triple crimps are performed consistently each time.

Classes IPC  ?

• F24S 25/13 - Agencements de profilés, p. ex. treillis
• F24S 30/425 - Axe horizontal
• H02S 20/10 - Structures de support directement fixées sur le sol
• F24S 50/20 - Agencements pour commander les collecteurs de chaleur solaire pour le suivi
• H02S 20/32 - Structures de support mobiles ou réglables, p. ex. pour réglage de l’angle spécialement adaptées pour le suivi du soleil

Abrégé

A truss foundation for single-axis trackers that distribute forces into the foundation through the torque tube. A truss adapter joins a pair of adjacent truss legs driven at angles to one another on either side of a tracker row so that the legs are perpendicular to the tracker torque tube. A third leg aligned with the torque tube is connected to the adapter to help resist axial forces in the torque tube. One or more collars placed on either side of a torque tube bearing include set screws to prevent axial slippage of the torque tube.

Classes IPC  ?

• H02S 20/32 - Structures de support mobiles ou réglables, p. ex. pour réglage de l’angle spécialement adaptées pour le suivi du soleil
• F24S 25/617 - Éléments enfoncés dans le sol, p. ex. pieux d’ancrageFondations pour supporter les élémentsConnecteurs pour joindre les supports de structures au sol ou aux surfaces plates horizontales
• F24S 30/425 - Axe horizontal
• F24S 30/00 - Agencements pour mouvoir ou orienter des modules de collecteurs de chaleur solaire

Abrégé

A truss foundation for supporting single-axis solar tracker drive motors and center structures. An adapter joins a pair of adjacent truss legs and provides a mounting platform to support a drive motor and/or center structure of a solar tracker. The adapter has a pair of connecting portions that are received in the legs of the truss foundation. The adapter may be a unitary structure or consist of a pair of slidably connected members that are joined with fasteners to accommodate truss legs spaced apart at different distances.

Classes IPC  ?

• F24S 25/13 - Agencements de profilés, p. ex. treillis
• F24S 25/16 - Agencement de structures dressées interconnectéesStructures dressées comprenant des portions de support séparées pour des modules adjacents
• F24S 30/00 - Agencements pour mouvoir ou orienter des modules de collecteurs de chaleur solaire
• F24S 25/632 - Connecteurs latérauxConnecteurs de base

Abrégé

In a machine for driving screw anchors and other foundation components, a desired embedment depth is calculated based on a minimum required embedment depth, work point height and length of available upper leg sections. Once calculated, the machine automatically drives the screw anchor to the depth so that one of the available upper leg lengths will fit between the driven screw anchor and apex truss hardware. If uplift is detected during driving, the machine will add additional embedment depth. In-situ validation of driven screw anchors may be performed after the embedment depth is reached.

Classes IPC  ?

• E02D 7/22 - Mise en place par vissage
• E02D 5/56 - Pieux à vis
• E02D 33/00 - Test des fondations
• H02S 20/10 - Structures de support directement fixées sur le sol

Abrégé

In a machine for driving screw anchors and other foundation components, a desired embedment depth is calculated based on a minimum required embedment depth, work point height and length of available upper leg sections. Once calculated, the machine automatically drives the screw anchor to the depth so that one of the available upper leg lengths will fit between the driven screw anchor and apex truss hardware. If a secondary condition is satisfied that guarantees sufficient pull-out strength, a new upper leg length may be selected and the driving operation terminated prior to reaching the desired embedment depth, reducing the amount of material necessary to construct the truss foundation.

Classes IPC  ?

• E02D 7/22 - Mise en place par vissage
• E02D 5/56 - Pieux à vis

Abrégé

A tool for adjusting driven truss components and assembled truss foundations. A bridge separates a pair of collars, each having a pair of offset bearing surfaces that fit around the truss legs. A lever arm terminating in a handle extends away from the bridge to give leverage to the tool operator. The bridge width is adjustable to enable positioning of the tool at different heights along the driven truss components. An additional receiver proximate to one of the collars may enable single leg operation. Lateral and angular adjustment of the lever arm with respect to the bridge may enable greater force to be applied to one leg relative to the other.

Classes IPC  ?

• E02D 5/80 - Ancres de fondation
• E04G 21/18 - Outils pour ajustageGabarits
• F24S 25/617 - Éléments enfoncés dans le sol, p. ex. pieux d’ancrageFondations pour supporter les élémentsConnecteurs pour joindre les supports de structures au sol ou aux surfaces plates horizontales
• F24S 25/70 - Agencement de montages ou de supports fixes pour des modules de collecteurs de chaleur solaire comprenant des moyens pour ajuster la position finale ou l’orientation des éléments de support par rapport aux autres éléments de support ou à une surface de montageAgencement de montages ou de supports fixes pour des modules de collecteurs de chaleur solaire comprenant des moyens pour compenser les tolérances de montage
• H02S 20/10 - Structures de support directement fixées sur le sol
• H02S 20/32 - Structures de support mobiles ou réglables, p. ex. pour réglage de l’angle spécialement adaptées pour le suivi du soleil

Abrégé

A passive locking chuck for a rotary driver. The chuck has a pair of rings, one fixed and the other rotatable between a first orientation where recesses formed in the rotatable ring are aligned with recesses formed in the fixed ring, and a second orientation where the recesses are offset from one another. When an upper end of a foundation component having a toothed coupler is inserted into the chuck and rotated axially, the movable ring is moved to the second orientation and the foundation component is thereby captured in the chuck. As soon as resistance is encountered from the soil, the ring moves back to the first orientation so that upon reaching the desired embedment depth, the rotary driver may be withdrawn without counter rotation.

Classes IPC  ?

• B23B 31/113 - Caractérisés par les dispositifs de maintien ou de serrage ou par leurs moyens d'action directe le maintien étant assuré par liaison du type à baïonnette
• B25D 17/08 - Dispositifs de fixation et de guidage des têtes d'outils, p. ex. des mandrins
• B23B 31/00 - Mandrins de serrageMandrins extensiblesLeurs adaptations à la commande à distance

Abrégé

A truss foundation for single-axis trackers that are installed in climates that experience significant frost heave. Truss legs are oriented to be substantially plumb, to eliminate adfreeze moment on below-ground components in the frost zone. Different truss caps may be used depending on the type of single-axis tracker and/or tracker component is supported. In some cases, truss legs may curve just before entering the ground. In others, below-ground and above-ground components may extend along the same axis and remain plump with the truss cap providing additional elevation to for the tracker to clear the wider truss legs.

Classes IPC  ?

• H02S 20/32 - Structures de support mobiles ou réglables, p. ex. pour réglage de l’angle spécialement adaptées pour le suivi du soleil
• F24S 25/10 - Agencement de montages ou de supports fixes pour des modules de collecteurs de chaleur solaire se dressant dans des directions opposées à la surface de support
• F24S 25/617 - Éléments enfoncés dans le sol, p. ex. pieux d’ancrageFondations pour supporter les élémentsConnecteurs pour joindre les supports de structures au sol ou aux surfaces plates horizontales
• H02S 20/10 - Structures de support directement fixées sur le sol
• F24S 25/00 - Agencement de montages ou de supports fixes pour des modules de collecteurs de chaleur solaire

Abrégé

A truss foundation for single-axis trackers that are installed in climates that experience significant frost heave. Truss legs are oriented to be substantially plumb, to eliminate adfreeze moment on below-ground components in the frost zone. Different truss caps may be used depending on the type of single-axis tracker and/or tracker component is supported. In some cases, truss legs may curve just before entering the ground. In others, below-ground and above-ground components may extend along the same axis and remain plump with the truss cap providing additional elevation to for the tracker to clear the wider truss legs.

Classes IPC  ?

• H02S 30/10 - Structures de bâti
• H02S 20/32 - Structures de support mobiles ou réglables, p. ex. pour réglage de l’angle spécialement adaptées pour le suivi du soleil

Abrégé

Truss foundations for supporting single-axis trackers. A motor truss may be constructed from a pair of adjacent trusses that are braced and interconnected to resist axial loads and bending moments experienced at the drive motor or center structure. Dampers may be added to one or more trusses to protect the tracker from unintended rotation by resisting these forces with the truss legs.

Classes IPC  ?

• H02S 20/32 - Structures de support mobiles ou réglables, p. ex. pour réglage de l’angle spécialement adaptées pour le suivi du soleil
• H02S 20/10 - Structures de support directement fixées sur le sol
• F24S 25/13 - Agencements de profilés, p. ex. treillis
• F24S 25/617 - Éléments enfoncés dans le sol, p. ex. pieux d’ancrageFondations pour supporter les élémentsConnecteurs pour joindre les supports de structures au sol ou aux surfaces plates horizontales
• F24S 30/425 - Axe horizontal

Abrégé

Fixed-tilt solar arrays constructed from screw anchors. In some cases, purlins are attached directly to truss legs. In others, they are attached to truss caps joining the free end of each truss leg. In still further ones, screw anchors are driven in rows and interconnected by a pair of hinged members, one of which provides a mounting plane for solar panels. Each screw anchor may serve as a connection point for the trailing hinged member of the first foundation and the leading hinged member of the next foundation. In still further cases, a hinged truss cap may be used to accommodate different tilt angles with the same foundation.

Classes IPC  ?

• H02S 20/30 - Structures de support mobiles ou réglables, p. ex. pour réglage de l’angle
• H02S 30/10 - Structures de bâti

Abrégé

Truss foundations for supporting single-axis trackers. A motor truss may be constructed from a pair of adjacent trusses that are braced and interconnected to resist axial loads and bending moments experienced at the drive motor or center structure. Dampers may be added to one or more trusses to protect the tracker from unintended rotation by resisting these forces with the truss legs.

Classes IPC  ?

• H02S 20/32 - Structures de support mobiles ou réglables, p. ex. pour réglage de l’angle spécialement adaptées pour le suivi du soleil
• F24S 25/13 - Agencements de profilés, p. ex. treillis
• F24S 25/617 - Éléments enfoncés dans le sol, p. ex. pieux d’ancrageFondations pour supporter les élémentsConnecteurs pour joindre les supports de structures au sol ou aux surfaces plates horizontales
• F24S 25/65 - Moyens de fixation, p. ex. moyens d’assemblage, spécialement adaptés pour supporter des modules de collecteurs de chaleur solaire pour coupler des éléments de support adjacents, p. ex. pour joindre des connecteurs profilés ensemble
• F24S 25/70 - Agencement de montages ou de supports fixes pour des modules de collecteurs de chaleur solaire comprenant des moyens pour ajuster la position finale ou l’orientation des éléments de support par rapport aux autres éléments de support ou à une surface de montageAgencement de montages ou de supports fixes pour des modules de collecteurs de chaleur solaire comprenant des moyens pour compenser les tolérances de montage
• F24S 30/425 - Axe horizontal

Abrégé

Drill bits are provided for a drilling while driving machine. In some cases, the drill bit is a multi-stage bit capable of selectively cutting at two different diameters. In others, the bit is an expanding bit that can be passed through a foundation component while its being driven. The bit has a pair of cutting wings that can move between a retracted orientation where the bit's diameter is narrower than the inner diameter of the driven component, to a splayed orientation where the diameter is equal to or larger than the driven component's outside diameter.

Classes IPC  ?

• E21B 10/32 - Trépans avec une partie pilote, c.-à-d. trépans comportant un organe coupant piloteTrépans pour élargir le trou de forage, p. ex. alésoirs à organes coupants expansibles
• E21B 10/54 - Trépans caractérisés par des parties résistant à l'usure, p. ex. des diamants rapportés le trépan étant du type racleur, p. ex. trépan du type à fourche
• E21B 44/02 - Commande automatique de l'avance de l'outil

Abrégé

A machine for rotary driving screw anchors into underlying ground and related. The machine has a mast with a rotary driver and a mandrel driver oriented on a common axis. The mandrel driver passes a mandrel through the rotary driver and the screw anchor to allow the mandrel to be actuated ahead of the screw anchor while the rotary driver drives the screw anchor into the ground. Alternatively, the mandrel driver may also drive a hammering drill through the screw anchor to clear a path ahead of it through subsurface rocks.

Classes IPC  ?

• F16B 25/00 - Vis formant des filets dans le matériau dans lequel elles sont vissées, p. ex. vis à bois, vis auto-taraudeuses
• F16B 19/10 - Rivets creuxRivets en plusieurs morceaux fixés par action mécanique
• F24S 30/00 - Agencements pour mouvoir ou orienter des modules de collecteurs de chaleur solaire
• F24S 30/425 - Axe horizontal

Abrégé

Improved masts for solar pile driving machines are provided that incorporate inline drilling as well as alignment and assembly devices that enable greater positional accuracy than possible with conventional equipment. In some cases, a jig, holder, or other device on the mast of the machine can be used to place a bearing assembly for a single-axis tracker while the foundation is being installed. Also disclosed are various multi-piece foundation piles that enable positional adjustment between below and above-ground components to compensate for misalignment.

Classes IPC  ?

• E02D 27/32 - Fondations pour des buts particuliers
• H02S 20/10 - Structures de support directement fixées sur le sol
• E02D 7/00 - Procédés ou appareils pour la mise en place de rideaux de palplanches, de pieux, de tubages ou d'autres coffrages

Abrégé

A closed-loop feedback-control system for a screw anchor driving machine that uses a controller such as a programmable logic controller (PLC) and an array of sensors providing real-time data to control an automated screw anchor driving operation relying on a rotary driver, a crowd motor applying downforce to the rotary driver and a tool driver extending a tool through the rotary driver and screw anchor to drive screw anchors to a target depth. The tool driver is independently controllable to advance the tool at a different feed and speed than the rotary driver to respond to underground conditions encountered during driving.

Classes IPC  ?

• E02D 7/22 - Mise en place par vissage
• E02D 13/00 - Accessoires pour la mise en place ou l'enlèvement de pieux ou de rideaux de palplanches
• E02D 7/24 - Mise en place par utilisation de jets de fluides

Abrégé

A coupler for joining truss leg components provides angular adjustability between the respective axis of the leg components. A prolate spheroid-shaped coupler with three channels circumscribing its surface enables the upper leg components to compensate for axial misalignment of driven screw anchors in all directions. A hydraulic crimping device with upper and lower crimping guides registers its position with features on the truss hardware to insure that blind triple crimps are performed consistently each time.

Classes IPC  ?

• F24S 25/00 - Agencement de montages ou de supports fixes pour des modules de collecteurs de chaleur solaire
• F24S 25/13 - Agencements de profilés, p. ex. treillis
• F24S 30/425 - Axe horizontal
• H02S 20/10 - Structures de support directement fixées sur le sol
• F24S 50/20 - Agencements pour commander les collecteurs de chaleur solaire pour le suivi
• H02S 20/32 - Structures de support mobiles ou réglables, p. ex. pour réglage de l’angle spécialement adaptées pour le suivi du soleil

Abrégé

A truss foundation for single-axis trackers that is optimized to resist moments. For foundations that experience lateral loads as well as moments, the foundation supports the rotational axis via a moment connection that is deliberately offset below the work point to reduce the impact of the bending moment. Spacing between the truss legs and the angle of the legs impact the height of the truss work point and, by extension, the available offset below the work point down to the minimum height of the axis of rotation specified by the tracker maker.

Classes IPC  ?

• H02S 20/32 - Structures de support mobiles ou réglables, p. ex. pour réglage de l’angle spécialement adaptées pour le suivi du soleil
• H02S 20/10 - Structures de support directement fixées sur le sol
• F24S 25/13 - Agencements de profilés, p. ex. treillis
• F24S 25/61 - Moyens de fixation, p. ex. moyens d’assemblage, spécialement adaptés pour supporter des modules de collecteurs de chaleur solaire pour ancrer au sol ou à la structure d’un bâtiment
• F24S 30/42 - Agencements pour mouvoir ou orienter des modules de collecteurs de chaleur solaire pour le déplacement en rotation avec un seul axe de rotation
• F24S 25/617 - Éléments enfoncés dans le sol, p. ex. pieux d’ancrageFondations pour supporter les élémentsConnecteurs pour joindre les supports de structures au sol ou aux surfaces plates horizontales
• F24S 30/425 - Axe horizontal

Abrégé

An alignment and installation jig for a screw anchor driving machine. The alignment and installation jig includes a laser target that can be moved from an alignment position to a driving position. The jig may also include one or more automated crimping assemblies to form permanent connections between overlapping foundation components while the machine is correctly oriented.

Classes IPC  ?

• E02D 5/56 - Pieux à vis
• E02D 7/22 - Mise en place par vissage
• E02D 13/00 - Accessoires pour la mise en place ou l'enlèvement de pieux ou de rideaux de palplanches

Abrégé

In a machine for driving screw anchors and other foundation components, a desired embedment depth is calculated based on a minimum required embedment depth, work point height and length of available upper leg sections. Once calculated, the machine automatically drives the screw anchor to the depth so that one of the available upper leg lengths will fit between the driven screw anchor and apex truss hardware. If uplift is detected during driving, the machine will add additional embedment depth. In-situ validation of driven screw anchors may be performed after the embedment depth is reached.

Classes IPC  ?

• E02D 7/22 - Mise en place par vissage
• E02D 7/26 - Mise en place par l'utilisation simultanée de plusieurs procédés
• E02D 5/28 - Pieux préfabriqués en acier
• E02D 27/50 - Fondations ancrées
• E02D 5/54 - Pieux ayant des supports ou des éléments d'ancrage préfabriquésPieux d'ancrage
• E02D 27/16 - Fondations formées de pieux séparés
• E02D 5/56 - Pieux à vis
• E02D 5/80 - Ancres de fondation
• E02D 7/06 - Sonnettes mécaniques

Abrégé

In a machine for driving screw anchors and other foundation components, a desired embedment depth is calculated based on a minimum required embedment depth, work point height and length of available upper leg sections. Once calculated, the machine automatically drives the screw anchor to the depth so that one of the available upper leg lengths will fit between the driven screw anchor and apex truss hardware. If uplift is detected during driving, the machine will add additional embedment depth. In-situ validation of driven screw anchors may be performed after the embedment depth is reached.

Classes IPC  ?

• E02D 7/22 - Mise en place par vissage
• E02D 5/56 - Pieux à vis
• E02D 33/00 - Test des fondations
• H02S 20/10 - Structures de support directement fixées sur le sol

Abrégé

An alignment and installation jig for a screw anchor driving machine. The alignment and installation jig includes a laser target that can be moved from an alignment position to a driving position. The jig may also include one or more automated crimping assemblies to form permanent connections between overlapping foundation components while the machine is correctly oriented.

Classes IPC  ?

• E02D 7/14 - Éléments de sonnettes
• E02D 7/22 - Mise en place par vissage
• E02D 13/04 - Dispositifs de guidageCadres de guidage
• B23P 19/10 - Alignement de pièces qui doivent être assemblées entre elles
• H02S 20/32 - Structures de support mobiles ou réglables, p. ex. pour réglage de l’angle spécialement adaptées pour le suivi du soleil
• E02D 5/80 - Ancres de fondation
• E02D 13/00 - Accessoires pour la mise en place ou l'enlèvement de pieux ou de rideaux de palplanches

Abrégé

Adjustable bearing supports for single-axis trackers supported by truss foundations. A two-piece assembly joins a pair of adjacent truss legs to form a rigid foundation while providing a movable support for a tracker bearing housing assembly or other structure. The movable support may slide in-plane, or alternatively, enable the bearing housing assembly to slide and rotate with respect to the truss cap structure joining the adjacent truss legs.

Classes IPC  ?

• H02S 30/10 - Structures de bâti

Abrégé

Adjustable bearing supports for single-axis trackers supported by truss foundations. A two-piece assembly joins a pair of adjacent truss legs to form a rigid foundation while providing a movable support for a tracker bearing housing assembly or other structure. The movable support may slide in-plane, or alternatively, enable the bearing housing assembly to slide and rotate with respect to the truss cap structure joining the adjacent truss legs.

Classes IPC  ?

• G01S 3/786 - Systèmes pour déterminer une direction ou une déviation par rapport à une direction prédéterminée utilisant le réglage d'une orientation des caractéristiques de directivité d'un détecteur ou d'un système de détecteurs afin d'obtenir une valeur désirée du signal provenant de ce détecteur ou de ce système de détecteurs la valeur désirée étant maintenue automatiquement
• F16M 11/12 - Moyens pour la fixation des appareilsMoyens permettant le réglage des appareils par rapport au banc permettant la rotation dans plus d'une direction
• H02S 20/32 - Structures de support mobiles ou réglables, p. ex. pour réglage de l’angle spécialement adaptées pour le suivi du soleil

Abrégé

Systems and methods are provided for performing site preparation work when building a single-axis tracker solar power plant. An installation and assembly machine is outfitted with a positioning system. At the time of installation, a reference laser is located at one end of an intended tracker row and is aligned positionally with an intended axis of rotation of the tracker (e.g., the tracker torque tube). The machine is moved to the first desired installation location based on the positioning information so that the laser beam impinges on a target on the machine. The distance between the laser and target is measured. A portion of the machine containing the target is moved with respect to the beam until the measured distance is equal to a predetermined distance. Once the correct distance is confirmed, the portion of the machine containing the target may be moved to confirm that the machine mast is oriented correctly in other axes including Y, Z and yaw.

Classes IPC  ?

• E02D 13/04 - Dispositifs de guidageCadres de guidage
• E02D 7/06 - Sonnettes mécaniques

Abrégé

Various embodiments of the disclosure enable installation of a utility scale solar array or other project requiring a site survey and survey markers at every ground penetration to be replaced with survey markers only at the end of each row. In addition, machine mast alignment for driving H-piles with an impact or vibratory hammer, or for driving screw anchors, helical anchors or other foundation with a rotary driver to be automated with the use of range finding lasers to orient the driving mast in X, Y and Z as well as pitch, roll and yaw based on range finding laser measurements.

Classes IPC  ?

• H02S 30/10 - Structures de bâti
• H02S 20/32 - Structures de support mobiles ou réglables, p. ex. pour réglage de l’angle spécialement adaptées pour le suivi du soleil

Abrégé

A solar power plant is constructed using a reverse workflow whereby the grid connection that will ultimately feed electricity to the grid is constructed before the array so that one or more transformers and portable charging stations may be deployed onsite to transform grid power so that it can recharge electrically powered heavy equipment including solar pile drivers, truss drivers, and telehandlers as well as electrically powered hand tools such as cordless impact drivers while the plant is constructed. Once complete, the fixed electrical infrastructure and grid connection are used to supply power from the solar power plant to the grid.

Classes IPC  ?

• H02S 10/00 - Centrales électriques PVCombinaisons de systèmes d’énergie PV avec d’autres systèmes pour la production d’énergie électrique
• H02J 7/02 - Circuits pour la charge ou la dépolarisation des batteries ou pour alimenter des charges par des batteries pour la charge des batteries par réseaux à courant alternatif au moyen de convertisseurs
• B60L 53/30 - Détails de construction des stations de charge
• B60L 53/51 - Panneaux photovoltaïques

Abrégé

A shared frame photovoltaic module and related mounting system for single-axis trackers. Each module has no frame, or a partial frame on two of four sides. A shared frame rail captures adjacent modules edges, providing frame support and attaching them to the tracker torque tube eliminating structural redundancy in conventional module frames. In some embodiments, each module is unframed with mounting pucks attached to the underside of the photovoltaic laminate. Torque tube mounting brackets have connecting portions for attaching respective pairs of mounting pucks on opposing sides of the torque tube.

Classes IPC  ?

• H02S 30/10 - Structures de bâti
• H02S 20/23 - Structures de support directement fixées sur un objet inamovible spécialement adaptées pour les bâtiments spécialement adaptées aux structures de toit

Abrégé

A shared frame photovoltaic module and related mounting system for single-axis trackers. Each module has no frame, or a partial frame on two of four sides. A shared frame rail captures adjacent modules edges, providing frame support and attaching them to the tracker torque tube eliminating structural redundancy in conventional module frames. In some embodiments, each module is unframed with mounting pucks attached to the underside of the photovoltaic laminate. Torque tube mounting brackets have connecting portions for attaching respective pairs of mounting pucks on opposing sides of the torque tube.

Classes IPC  ?

• H02S 30/10 - Structures de bâti
• F16M 13/02 - Autres supports ou appuis pour positionner les appareils ou les objetsMoyens pour maintenir en position les appareils ou objets tenus à la main pour être portés par un autre objet ou lui être fixé, p. ex. à un arbre, une grille, un châssis de fenêtre, une bicyclette
• H02S 40/36 - Composants électriques caractérisés par des moyens d'interconnexions électriques spéciaux entre plusieurs modules PV, p. ex. connexion électrique module à module

Abrégé

Systems and methods for quickly and securely interconnecting foundation components when axially misaligned without hydraulic tools. Upper to lower leg connections are made with threaded connections or with ball and socket connections that permit angular adjustment. One or more retaining nuts bias the connection to lock it in place at the desired orientation. Foundation component to single-axis tracker connections are facilitated by various wedge and clamp connector assemblies that rely on mechanical engagement to lock components in place and resist axial forces. Other connections are made with hemispherical washers and adapter plates that enable rigid connections through a range of angles.

Classes IPC  ?

• E02D 5/80 - Ancres de fondation
• H02S 20/30 - Structures de support mobiles ou réglables, p. ex. pour réglage de l’angle
• E02D 27/50 - Fondations ancrées

Abrégé

A two-piece truss leg with an articulating coupler for an A-frame-shaped truss foundation system for single-axis trackers. The coupler is attached to the head of each screw anchor to enable it to be driven. A connection portion extends above the coupler and is received within an open end of an upper leg to allow the upper leg to be misaligned with respect to it corresponding screw anchor.

Classes IPC  ?

• E04D 13/18 - Aspects de la couverture de toit relatifs aux dispositifs collecteurs d'énergie, p. ex. contenant des panneaux solaires
• F24S 25/13 - Agencements de profilés, p. ex. treillis
• F24S 30/425 - Axe horizontal
• H02S 20/32 - Structures de support mobiles ou réglables, p. ex. pour réglage de l’angle spécialement adaptées pour le suivi du soleil
• F24S 50/20 - Agencements pour commander les collecteurs de chaleur solaire pour le suivi
• H02S 20/10 - Structures de support directement fixées sur le sol

Abrégé

A one-piece truss adapter for supporting single-axis trackers with truss foundations. A y-shaped structure has a pair of legs with an angularly adjustable connector for securely joining the one-piece adapter to a pair of driven screw anchors at different angular orientations. Each leg terminates in a ball-shaped connector that is received in a socket integral to a driving coupler at the head of each screw anchor. A retaining nut holds the connector in place to complete the angularly adjustable assembly.

Classes IPC  ?

• E04C 3/38 - Poutres en arc ou cadres de portiques
• E04C 3/02 - PoutrellesSolives, fermes ou structures analogues à des fermes, p. ex. préfabriquéesLinteauxTraverses
• E04B 1/32 - ArcsVoûtesStructures gauches

Abrégé

A foundation system for manufactured homes, prefabricated houses, and other structures. Multiple screw anchors are driven into the ground at the desired location of the structure. Preformed grade bars may be placed over the screw anchors to provide a modular foundation without pouring concrete or digging footers. Alternatively, adapters may be attached to one or more of the driven screw anchors to provide a pedestal to receive the grade bar or prefabricated sections of concrete.

Classes IPC  ?

• E02D 5/56 - Pieux à vis
• E02D 5/80 - Ancres de fondation
• E02D 27/50 - Fondations ancrées
• E02D 27/48 - Fondations réalisées en sous-œuvre de bâtiment ou autres constructions préexistantes

Abrégé

An automated control system for a screw anchor driving and truss assembly machine. A positioning subsystem determines an orientation of a machine mast's driving axis relative to an intended drive axis and controls the mast to align with the intended drive axis. After a pair of adjacent screw anchors are drive, the controller orients the mast so that an alignment jig for supporting truss apex hardware is held relative to a predetermined point in space.

Classes IPC  ?

• E02D 7/22 - Mise en place par vissage
• E02D 5/56 - Pieux à vis
• E02D 13/00 - Accessoires pour la mise en place ou l'enlèvement de pieux ou de rideaux de palplanches

Abrégé

An A-frame-shaped truss foundation system for a single-axis tracker with a bearing assembly sitting atop a pair of adjacent angled truss legs joined together with an adapter so that the axis of rotation of the tracker is aligned with a work point of the A-frame. Several such foundation systems are arranged along a North-South row to support a tracker torque tube.

Classes IPC  ?

• H02S 20/32 - Structures de support mobiles ou réglables, p. ex. pour réglage de l’angle spécialement adaptées pour le suivi du soleil
• F24S 25/61 - Moyens de fixation, p. ex. moyens d’assemblage, spécialement adaptés pour supporter des modules de collecteurs de chaleur solaire pour ancrer au sol ou à la structure d’un bâtiment
• F24S 30/425 - Axe horizontal
• F24S 25/617 - Éléments enfoncés dans le sol, p. ex. pieux d’ancrageFondations pour supporter les élémentsConnecteurs pour joindre les supports de structures au sol ou aux surfaces plates horizontales
• H02S 20/10 - Structures de support directement fixées sur le sol
• E02D 5/80 - Ancres de fondation
• F24S 30/00 - Agencements pour mouvoir ou orienter des modules de collecteurs de chaleur solaire

Abrégé

A truss foundation for single-axis trackers that is optimized to resist moments. For foundations that experience lateral loads as well as moments, the foundation supports the rotational axis via a moment connection that is deliberately offset below the work point to reduce the impact of the bending moment. Spacing between the truss legs and the angle of the legs impact the height of the truss work point and, by extension, the available offset below the work point down to the minimum height of the axis of rotation specified by the tracker maker.

Classes IPC  ?

• H02S 20/32 - Structures de support mobiles ou réglables, p. ex. pour réglage de l’angle spécialement adaptées pour le suivi du soleil
• H02S 30/10 - Structures de bâti

Abrégé

A truss foundation for single-axis trackers that is optimized to resist moments. For foundations that experience lateral loads as well as moments, the foundation supports the rotational axis via a moment connection that is deliberately offset below the work point to reduce the impact of the bending moment. Spacing between the truss legs and the angle of the legs impact the height of the truss work point and, by extension, the available offset below the work point down to the minimum height of the axis of rotation specified by the tracker maker.

Classes IPC  ?

• H02S 20/10 - Structures de support directement fixées sur le sol
• H02S 20/32 - Structures de support mobiles ou réglables, p. ex. pour réglage de l’angle spécialement adaptées pour le suivi du soleil
• F24S 25/13 - Agencements de profilés, p. ex. treillis
• F24S 25/617 - Éléments enfoncés dans le sol, p. ex. pieux d’ancrageFondations pour supporter les élémentsConnecteurs pour joindre les supports de structures au sol ou aux surfaces plates horizontales
• F24S 30/425 - Axe horizontal

Abrégé

Bearing adapters for use with truss foundations supporting mechanically balanced single-axis trackers. The bearing adapter joins the free ends of a pair of adjacent truss legs to form a rigid A-frame shaped foundation structure. A bearing is formed in an upper portion of the bearing adapter to allow a torque tube to be suspended from a pin in the bearing and to swing through an arc bounded by the bearing adapter. The bearing may have a catenoid shape to compensate for misalignment in multiple directions.

Classes IPC  ?

• F16C 17/03 - Paliers à contact lisse pour mouvement de rotation exclusivement pour charges radiales uniquement avec segments supportés obliquement, p. ex. paliers Michell
• H02S 20/32 - Structures de support mobiles ou réglables, p. ex. pour réglage de l’angle spécialement adaptées pour le suivi du soleil
• H02S 30/10 - Structures de bâti

Abrégé

Bearing adapters for use with truss foundations supporting mechanically balanced single-axis trackers. The bearing adapter joins the free ends of a pair of adjacent truss legs to form a rigid A-frame shaped foundation structure. A bearing is formed in an upper portion of the bearing adapter to allow a torque tube to be suspended from a pin in the bearing and to swing through an arc bounded by the bearing adapter. The bearing may have a catenoid shape to compensate for misalignment in multiple directions.

Classes IPC  ?

• H02S 20/32 - Structures de support mobiles ou réglables, p. ex. pour réglage de l’angle spécialement adaptées pour le suivi du soleil
• H02S 30/10 - Structures de bâti

Abrégé

A pair of truss legs forming an A-frame-shaped truss foundation system, wherein each truss leg is formed from a hollow lower screw anchor having threading around its lower end connected to an upper leg, wherein both the screw anchor and the upper leg have corrosion protection layers formed on their inner and outer surfaces thereof, but wherein only the screw anchor also has a second corrosion protection layer formed over the first protection layer on its outer surface only.

Classes IPC  ?

• E02D 5/80 - Ancres de fondation
• H02S 20/10 - Structures de support directement fixées sur le sol

Abrégé

A machine for driving a pair of screw anchors at substantially the same time. An attachment supports a pair of independent drive assemblies. Each assembly consists of a rotary driver and tool driver that moves along respective driving arms to independently drive a pair of screw anchors into supporting ground at different angles. Each assembly may move with respect to the machine independently to drive anchors into the ground in overlapping time, or both may rotate at once to drive anchors into the ground sequentially.

Classes IPC  ?

• E02D 7/06 - Sonnettes mécaniques
• E02D 7/22 - Mise en place par vissage
• E02D 7/26 - Mise en place par l'utilisation simultanée de plusieurs procédés
• E02D 27/16 - Fondations formées de pieux séparés
• E02D 5/80 - Ancres de fondation
• E02D 27/50 - Fondations ancrées
• E02D 5/54 - Pieux ayant des supports ou des éléments d'ancrage préfabriquésPieux d'ancrage
• E02D 5/28 - Pieux préfabriqués en acier
• E02D 5/56 - Pieux à vis

Abrégé

A closed-loop feedback-control system for a screw anchor driving machine that uses a programmable logic controller (PLC) and array of sensors providing real-time data to control an automated screw anchor driving operation relying on a rotary driver, a crowd motor applying downforce to the rotary driver and a tool driver extending a tool through the rotary driver and screw anchor to drive screw anchors to a target depth.

Classes IPC  ?

• E02D 7/22 - Mise en place par vissage
• E02D 13/00 - Accessoires pour la mise en place ou l'enlèvement de pieux ou de rideaux de palplanches
• E02D 7/24 - Mise en place par utilisation de jets de fluides

Abrégé

An A-frame shaped truss foundation system for a single axis tracker with moderately sloped legs that translate lateral loads into tension and compression without substantially increasing the magnitude of the lateral load force while optimizing material usage. Several such truss foundation systems are installed in a row to support a torque tube of a single-axis solar tracker. An adapter joins ends of adjacent upper legs and separates the truss legs by an angle more than 35-degrees up to 70-degrees.

Classes IPC  ?

• E04D 13/18 - Aspects de la couverture de toit relatifs aux dispositifs collecteurs d'énergie, p. ex. contenant des panneaux solaires
• F24S 25/617 - Éléments enfoncés dans le sol, p. ex. pieux d’ancrageFondations pour supporter les élémentsConnecteurs pour joindre les supports de structures au sol ou aux surfaces plates horizontales
• H02S 20/32 - Structures de support mobiles ou réglables, p. ex. pour réglage de l’angle spécialement adaptées pour le suivi du soleil
• F24S 25/13 - Agencements de profilés, p. ex. treillis
• F24S 30/425 - Axe horizontal
• F24S 30/00 - Agencements pour mouvoir ou orienter des modules de collecteurs de chaleur solaire

Abrégé

A machine, method and system for installing helical foundation piers that sues a driving tamper connected to a rotary tool to drive helical piers into the ground. Once the pier reaches the target depth, the tamper is decoupled, and counter rotated away from the pier. While it is withdrawn the soil between the driven and pier and the driving tamper is compressed by intermittent downward action of the tamper.

Classes IPC  ?

• E02D 3/054 - Amélioration par compactage par damage ou par vibrations, p. ex. avec détrempage auxiliaire du sol impliquant une pénétration dans le sol, p. ex. vibro-flottation
• E02D 7/26 - Mise en place par l'utilisation simultanée de plusieurs procédés
• E02D 27/26 - Tassement local du sol avant la réalisation des fondationsRéalisation de fondations à l'aide d'injection de liant dans des remblais graveleux
• E02D 5/24 - Pieux préfabriqués
• E02D 5/52 - Pieux constitués d'éléments séparables, p. ex. de tubes télescopiques
• E02D 5/56 - Pieux à vis

Abrégé

An A-frame shaped truss foundation system for a single axis tracker with moderately sloped legs that translate lateral loads into tension and compression without substantially increasing the magnitude of the lateral load force while optimizing material usage. Several such truss foundation systems are installed in a row to support a torque tube of a single-axis solar tracker. An adapter joins ends of adjacent upper legs and separates the truss legs by an angle more than 35-degrees up to 70-degrees.

Classes IPC  ?

• H02S 20/32 - Structures de support mobiles ou réglables, p. ex. pour réglage de l’angle spécialement adaptées pour le suivi du soleil
• H02S 30/10 - Structures de bâti

Abrégé

An A-frame-shaped truss foundation system for a single-axis tracker with a bearing assembly sitting atop a pair of adjacent angled truss legs joined together with an adapter so that the axis of rotation of the tracker is aligned with a work point of the A-frame. Several such foundation systems are arranged along a North-South row to support a tracker torque tube.

Classes IPC  ?

• H02S 20/30 - Structures de support mobiles ou réglables, p. ex. pour réglage de l’angle
• H02S 30/10 - Structures de bâti
• H02S 20/10 - Structures de support directement fixées sur le sol

Abrégé

An A-frame-shaped truss foundation system for a single-axis tracker with a bearing assembly sitting atop a pair of adjacent angled truss legs joined together with an adapter so that the axis of rotation of the tracker is aligned with a work point of the A-frame. Several such foundation systems are arranged along a North-South row to support a tracker torque tube.

Classes IPC  ?

• H02S 20/10 - Structures de support directement fixées sur le sol
• H02S 20/32 - Structures de support mobiles ou réglables, p. ex. pour réglage de l’angle spécialement adaptées pour le suivi du soleil
• F24S 25/61 - Moyens de fixation, p. ex. moyens d’assemblage, spécialement adaptés pour supporter des modules de collecteurs de chaleur solaire pour ancrer au sol ou à la structure d’un bâtiment
• F24S 30/42 - Agencements pour mouvoir ou orienter des modules de collecteurs de chaleur solaire pour le déplacement en rotation avec un seul axe de rotation
• F24S 30/425 - Axe horizontal
• F24S 25/617 - Éléments enfoncés dans le sol, p. ex. pieux d’ancrageFondations pour supporter les élémentsConnecteurs pour joindre les supports de structures au sol ou aux surfaces plates horizontales
• F24S 30/00 - Agencements pour mouvoir ou orienter des modules de collecteurs de chaleur solaire

Abrégé

A two-piece truss leg with an articulating coupler for an A-frame-shaped truss foundation system for single-axis trackers. The coupler is attached to the head of each screw anchor to enable it to be driven. A connection portion extends above the coupler and is received within an open end of an upper leg to allow the upper leg to be misaligned with respect to it corresponding screw anchor.

Classes IPC  ?

• E04D 13/18 - Aspects de la couverture de toit relatifs aux dispositifs collecteurs d'énergie, p. ex. contenant des panneaux solaires
• F24S 25/13 - Agencements de profilés, p. ex. treillis
• F24S 30/425 - Axe horizontal
• H02S 20/32 - Structures de support mobiles ou réglables, p. ex. pour réglage de l’angle spécialement adaptées pour le suivi du soleil
• F24S 50/20 - Agencements pour commander les collecteurs de chaleur solaire pour le suivi
• H02S 20/10 - Structures de support directement fixées sur le sol

Abrégé

A single-axis tracker supported by multiple A-frame-shaped single-truss foundations that translate lateral loads into axial forces of tension and compression, and at least one truss foundation supporting the torque tube drive motor or other tracker component subject to axial loads to provide support for lateral loads as well as loads oriented along the axis of the torque tube.

Classes IPC  ?

• H02S 20/32 - Structures de support mobiles ou réglables, p. ex. pour réglage de l’angle spécialement adaptées pour le suivi du soleil
• F24S 25/13 - Agencements de profilés, p. ex. treillis
• F24S 25/617 - Éléments enfoncés dans le sol, p. ex. pieux d’ancrageFondations pour supporter les élémentsConnecteurs pour joindre les supports de structures au sol ou aux surfaces plates horizontales
• F24S 30/00 - Agencements pour mouvoir ou orienter des modules de collecteurs de chaleur solaire

Abrégé

A foundation component having an elongated shaft with a below-ground end and an opposing above-ground end. The foundation component is installed by sleeving it over a mandrel and applying downward force to the mandrel to insert the component and mandrel into underlying soil. Proximate to the underground end, the shaft has one or more crumple zones formed along its length. When the mandrel is rotated to a locked position and upward force is applied while bracing the above-ground end of the component, one or more of the crumple zones expand transversely into the soil, depending on the soil's density, thereby increasing the component's bearing capacity and resistance to pull out.

Classes IPC  ?

• E02D 5/22 - Pieux
• E02D 5/44 - Pieux en béton ou analogue coulés en place par utilisation de tubages ou autres coffrages ayant une base élargie ou des élargissements au bas du pieu
• E02D 7/00 - Procédés ou appareils pour la mise en place de rideaux de palplanches, de pieux, de tubages ou d'autres coffrages
• E02D 23/00 - CaissonsConstruction ou mise en place des caissons
• E02D 5/52 - Pieux constitués d'éléments séparables, p. ex. de tubes télescopiques

Abrégé

A machine for rotary driving screw anchors into underlying ground and related. The machine has a mast with a rotary driver and a mandrel driver oriented on a common axis. The mandrel driver passes a mandrel through the rotary driver and the screw anchor to allow the mandrel to be actuated ahead of the screw anchor while the rotary driver drives the screw anchor into the ground. Alternatively, the mandrel driver may also drive a hammering drill through the screw anchor to clear a path ahead of it through subsurface rocks.

Classes IPC  ?

• F16B 25/00 - Vis formant des filets dans le matériau dans lequel elles sont vissées, p. ex. vis à bois, vis auto-taraudeuses
• F16B 19/10 - Rivets creuxRivets en plusieurs morceaux fixés par action mécanique
• F24S 30/00 - Agencements pour mouvoir ou orienter des modules de collecteurs de chaleur solaire
• F24S 30/425 - Axe horizontal