Drive system for photovoltaic trackers
US12418259B1 · kind B1 · utility
Assignee
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | Mar 17, 2024 |
| Grant date | Sep 16, 2025 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Mar 23, 2044 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC Y)Emerging Cross-Sectional Technologies
- CPC primaryY02E10/50
- WIPO fieldElectrical machinery, apparatus, energy
- WIPO sectorElectrical engineering
Abstract
In a solar energy system, a photovoltaic (PV) assembly includes a frame subassembly and an array of PV panels joined to and pivotable with the frame assembly. A support pylon comprises a hollow member open on a first side. A drive system includes an electric motor and a pivot-wheel assembly comprising a drive chain joined to a hoop portion. The pivot-wheel assembly is arranged to transfer a torque from the electric motor to the frame subassembly. The electric motor is at least partly disposed within the hollow member and is mounted to a wall of the hollow member. A gearing arrangement includes a drive shaft passing through an aperture in the wall so as to place the motor in geared communication with the drive chain via a sprocketed drive wheel.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.