Single axis solar tracking system
US9631840B2 · kind B2 · utility
Inventor
Key dates
| Filing date | May 15, 2013 |
| Grant date | Apr 25, 2017 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Mar 23, 2035 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC Y)Emerging Cross-Sectional Technologies
- CPC primaryY02E10/50
- WIPO fieldThermal processes and apparatus
- WIPO sectorMechanical engineering
Abstract
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.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.