CA2958260A1 - Sun tracking device for solar modules with elastic or resilient pseudo-hinges - Google Patents
Sun tracking device for solar modules with elastic or resilient pseudo-hinges Download PDFInfo
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- CA2958260A1 CA2958260A1 CA2958260A CA2958260A CA2958260A1 CA 2958260 A1 CA2958260 A1 CA 2958260A1 CA 2958260 A CA2958260 A CA 2958260A CA 2958260 A CA2958260 A CA 2958260A CA 2958260 A1 CA2958260 A1 CA 2958260A1
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- hinge
- tracking device
- connecting means
- erecting
- motor
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- 229920001971 elastomer Polymers 0.000 claims abstract description 14
- 239000000806 elastomer Substances 0.000 claims abstract description 9
- 229910000831 Steel Inorganic materials 0.000 claims abstract description 7
- 239000010959 steel Substances 0.000 claims abstract description 7
- 239000000758 substrate Substances 0.000 claims abstract description 4
- 238000011084 recovery Methods 0.000 claims description 48
- 230000001681 protective effect Effects 0.000 claims description 22
- 230000009471 action Effects 0.000 claims description 6
- 238000004891 communication Methods 0.000 claims description 5
- 230000001133 acceleration Effects 0.000 claims 1
- 230000000875 corresponding effect Effects 0.000 description 11
- 230000005855 radiation Effects 0.000 description 7
- 238000005096 rolling process Methods 0.000 description 6
- 230000008901 benefit Effects 0.000 description 4
- 241000722921 Tulipa gesneriana Species 0.000 description 2
- 230000002829 reductive effect Effects 0.000 description 2
- 230000000284 resting effect Effects 0.000 description 2
- 241000127225 Enceliopsis nudicaulis Species 0.000 description 1
- 239000006096 absorbing agent Substances 0.000 description 1
- 230000002411 adverse Effects 0.000 description 1
- 230000003466 anti-cipated effect Effects 0.000 description 1
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- 230000008859 change Effects 0.000 description 1
- 238000010276 construction Methods 0.000 description 1
- 230000007423 decrease Effects 0.000 description 1
- 230000001419 dependent effect Effects 0.000 description 1
- 230000000694 effects Effects 0.000 description 1
- 238000004146 energy storage Methods 0.000 description 1
- 230000002349 favourable effect Effects 0.000 description 1
- 239000008236 heating water Substances 0.000 description 1
- 230000003100 immobilizing effect Effects 0.000 description 1
- 238000004519 manufacturing process Methods 0.000 description 1
- 230000007246 mechanism Effects 0.000 description 1
- 230000001404 mediated effect Effects 0.000 description 1
- 230000009467 reduction Effects 0.000 description 1
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- 239000013589 supplement Substances 0.000 description 1
Classifications
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- H—ELECTRICITY
- H02—GENERATION; CONVERSION OR DISTRIBUTION OF ELECTRIC POWER
- H02S—GENERATION OF ELECTRIC POWER BY CONVERSION OF INFRARED RADIATION, VISIBLE LIGHT OR ULTRAVIOLET LIGHT, e.g. USING PHOTOVOLTAIC [PV] MODULES
- H02S20/00—Supporting structures for PV modules
- H02S20/30—Supporting structures being movable or adjustable, e.g. for angle adjustment
- H02S20/32—Supporting structures being movable or adjustable, e.g. for angle adjustment specially adapted for solar tracking
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- F—MECHANICAL ENGINEERING; LIGHTING; HEATING; WEAPONS; BLASTING
- F24—HEATING; RANGES; VENTILATING
- F24S—SOLAR HEAT COLLECTORS; SOLAR HEAT SYSTEMS
- F24S30/00—Arrangements for moving or orienting solar heat collector modules
- F24S30/40—Arrangements for moving or orienting solar heat collector modules for rotary movement
- F24S30/42—Arrangements for moving or orienting solar heat collector modules for rotary movement with only one rotation axis
- F24S30/425—Horizontal axis
-
- F—MECHANICAL ENGINEERING; LIGHTING; HEATING; WEAPONS; BLASTING
- F24—HEATING; RANGES; VENTILATING
- F24S—SOLAR HEAT COLLECTORS; SOLAR HEAT SYSTEMS
- F24S30/00—Arrangements for moving or orienting solar heat collector modules
- F24S30/40—Arrangements for moving or orienting solar heat collector modules for rotary movement
- F24S30/48—Arrangements for moving or orienting solar heat collector modules for rotary movement with three or more rotation axes or with multiple degrees of freedom
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- F—MECHANICAL ENGINEERING; LIGHTING; HEATING; WEAPONS; BLASTING
- F24—HEATING; RANGES; VENTILATING
- F24S—SOLAR HEAT COLLECTORS; SOLAR HEAT SYSTEMS
- F24S30/00—Arrangements for moving or orienting solar heat collector modules
- F24S2030/10—Special components
- F24S2030/13—Transmissions
- F24S2030/133—Transmissions in the form of flexible elements, e.g. belts, chains, ropes
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- F—MECHANICAL ENGINEERING; LIGHTING; HEATING; WEAPONS; BLASTING
- F24—HEATING; RANGES; VENTILATING
- F24S—SOLAR HEAT COLLECTORS; SOLAR HEAT SYSTEMS
- F24S30/00—Arrangements for moving or orienting solar heat collector modules
- F24S2030/10—Special components
- F24S2030/15—Bearings
-
- Y—GENERAL TAGGING OF NEW TECHNOLOGICAL DEVELOPMENTS; GENERAL TAGGING OF CROSS-SECTIONAL TECHNOLOGIES SPANNING OVER SEVERAL SECTIONS OF THE IPC; TECHNICAL SUBJECTS COVERED BY FORMER USPC CROSS-REFERENCE ART COLLECTIONS [XRACs] AND DIGESTS
- Y02—TECHNOLOGIES OR APPLICATIONS FOR MITIGATION OR ADAPTATION AGAINST CLIMATE CHANGE
- Y02E—REDUCTION OF GREENHOUSE GAS [GHG] EMISSIONS, RELATED TO ENERGY GENERATION, TRANSMISSION OR DISTRIBUTION
- Y02E10/00—Energy generation through renewable energy sources
- Y02E10/40—Solar thermal energy, e.g. solar towers
- Y02E10/47—Mountings or tracking
-
- Y—GENERAL TAGGING OF NEW TECHNOLOGICAL DEVELOPMENTS; GENERAL TAGGING OF CROSS-SECTIONAL TECHNOLOGIES SPANNING OVER SEVERAL SECTIONS OF THE IPC; TECHNICAL SUBJECTS COVERED BY FORMER USPC CROSS-REFERENCE ART COLLECTIONS [XRACs] AND DIGESTS
- Y02—TECHNOLOGIES OR APPLICATIONS FOR MITIGATION OR ADAPTATION AGAINST CLIMATE CHANGE
- Y02E—REDUCTION OF GREENHOUSE GAS [GHG] EMISSIONS, RELATED TO ENERGY GENERATION, TRANSMISSION OR DISTRIBUTION
- Y02E10/00—Energy generation through renewable energy sources
- Y02E10/50—Photovoltaic [PV] energy
Landscapes
- Engineering & Computer Science (AREA)
- Life Sciences & Earth Sciences (AREA)
- Sustainable Development (AREA)
- Physics & Mathematics (AREA)
- Sustainable Energy (AREA)
- Thermal Sciences (AREA)
- Chemical & Material Sciences (AREA)
- Combustion & Propulsion (AREA)
- Mechanical Engineering (AREA)
- General Engineering & Computer Science (AREA)
- Photovoltaic Devices (AREA)
Abstract
A tracking device (2) for photovoltaic and solar thermal active elements (3) or the like is proposed, comprising: erecting means (8) which are configured to arrange at least one such active element (3) spaced apart from a substrate or surface, and which are configured post-like; supporting means (9) for the active element (3) connected in a hinged manner to the erecting means (8) via hinge means (10), wherein the hinge means (10) are arranged at an upper end (8a) of the post-like erecting means (8); and movement means, which are configured to move, preferably to pivot, the supporting means (9) relative to the erecting means (8), and which comprise at least one connecting means (11), as well as motor means (13) acting on the connecting means, which connecting means (11) are fixed on one side (9a) of the supporting means (9) facing the erecting means (8) at least one attachment point (P1, P2), wherein the motor means (13) act on the connecting means (11) to modify a distance between the erecting means (8) and the attachment point (P1, P2). The tracking device is characterized in that the hinge means (10) comprise at least one hinge element, which hinge element is configured elastically, preferably as an elastomer element, as a steel or elastomer spring, as a rubber hinge or the like.
Description
SUN TRACKING DEVICE FOR SOLAR MODULES WITH ELASTIC OR RESILIENT
PSEUDO-HINGES
Description The invention relates to a tracking device according to the preamble of claim 1 for photovoltaic and solar thermal active elements or the like comprising: erecting means which are configured to arrange at least one such active element spaced apart from a substrate or surface, and which are configured post-like; supporting means for the active element connected in a hinged manner to the erecting means via hinge means, wherein the hinge means are arranged at an upper end of the post-like erecting means; and movement means, which are configured to move, preferably to pivot, the supporting means relative to the erecting means, and which comprise at least one connecting means, as well as motor means acting on the connecting means, which connecting means is fixed on one side of the supporting means facing the erecting means at at least one attachment point, wherein the motor means act on the connecting means to modify a distance between the erecting means and the attachment point to achieve an orientation of the active elements (solar modules) as optimal as possible.
In addition, the invention relates to a device for solar energy recovery according to claim 16.
As a result of the decline in world market prices, especially for photovoltaic elements, there is now more than ever an incentive to recover energy from the abundant solar radiation that is received on earth at low cost and in an environmentally friendly manner.
However, it is fundamentally irrelevant in the context of the invention whether a photovoltaic element for converting solar light radiation into electrical voltage, a solar thermal element for heating water or the like or a reflector element in the manner of a mirror is used as the active element to provide incident sunlight for further use. All listed elements for the use of solar radiation, without limitation, are referred to as "active elements" or "solar active elements" within the scope of this description.
Since the position of the sun and therefore the direction of the radiation of the sun changes at a given location during the course of the day, it is desirable for the optimal use of the solar radiation to equip the respective active element with a tracking device, which tracking device provides for an at least substantially optimal orientation of the active element -preferably in such a manner that an incidence direction of the solar radiation coincides with a surface normal of the regularly planar active element.
According to the applicant's findings, the efficiency of a solar active element in the photovoltaic range can be easily increased by about 40%.
Such tracking devices for solar active elements are basically known. They include, in particular, the means mentioned at the outset, together with elaborate tracking mechanisms, and are therefore relatively expensive. Typically, the additional financial costs for such tracking devices can hardly be amortized in the operation of the solar active element. Particularly in poorer parts of the world, which often have enormous solar energy potential, however, the use of such previously known tracking devices is in any case excluded for cost reasons.
PSEUDO-HINGES
Description The invention relates to a tracking device according to the preamble of claim 1 for photovoltaic and solar thermal active elements or the like comprising: erecting means which are configured to arrange at least one such active element spaced apart from a substrate or surface, and which are configured post-like; supporting means for the active element connected in a hinged manner to the erecting means via hinge means, wherein the hinge means are arranged at an upper end of the post-like erecting means; and movement means, which are configured to move, preferably to pivot, the supporting means relative to the erecting means, and which comprise at least one connecting means, as well as motor means acting on the connecting means, which connecting means is fixed on one side of the supporting means facing the erecting means at at least one attachment point, wherein the motor means act on the connecting means to modify a distance between the erecting means and the attachment point to achieve an orientation of the active elements (solar modules) as optimal as possible.
In addition, the invention relates to a device for solar energy recovery according to claim 16.
As a result of the decline in world market prices, especially for photovoltaic elements, there is now more than ever an incentive to recover energy from the abundant solar radiation that is received on earth at low cost and in an environmentally friendly manner.
However, it is fundamentally irrelevant in the context of the invention whether a photovoltaic element for converting solar light radiation into electrical voltage, a solar thermal element for heating water or the like or a reflector element in the manner of a mirror is used as the active element to provide incident sunlight for further use. All listed elements for the use of solar radiation, without limitation, are referred to as "active elements" or "solar active elements" within the scope of this description.
Since the position of the sun and therefore the direction of the radiation of the sun changes at a given location during the course of the day, it is desirable for the optimal use of the solar radiation to equip the respective active element with a tracking device, which tracking device provides for an at least substantially optimal orientation of the active element -preferably in such a manner that an incidence direction of the solar radiation coincides with a surface normal of the regularly planar active element.
According to the applicant's findings, the efficiency of a solar active element in the photovoltaic range can be easily increased by about 40%.
Such tracking devices for solar active elements are basically known. They include, in particular, the means mentioned at the outset, together with elaborate tracking mechanisms, and are therefore relatively expensive. Typically, the additional financial costs for such tracking devices can hardly be amortized in the operation of the solar active element. Particularly in poorer parts of the world, which often have enormous solar energy potential, however, the use of such previously known tracking devices is in any case excluded for cost reasons.
2 DE 10 2010 004 905 Al discloses a tracking system for solar modules in which a spherical hinge is arranged at the tip of a post-like mounting, to which a module support is tiltably connected.
A disadvantage of this is that the inserted spherical hinge necessitates additional elaborate constructional measures in order to prevent uncontrolled rotation of the solar module.
The same is true of the subject matter of US 2013/0008489 Ul.
DE 10 2007 020 235 Al discloses a tracking system with a simple hinge joint, while DE 10 2007 031 289 Al shows a relatively elaborate cross hinge for moving a reflector/absorber.
There is therefore a need for a tracking device of the type mentioned at the outset, characterized by a particular simple and cost-effective structure compared to prior art tracking devices of the generic type and which therefore can be used without any major financial expenditure for improving solar energy recovery.
In particular, by providing a tracking device according to the invention the anticipated cost increase should be so low that amortization is possible by the achievable surplus.
The invention achieves this object by means of a tracking device with the features of claim 1 and by means of an energy recovery device with the features of claim 16. Advantageous refinements of the invention are the subject matter of dependent claims, the wording of which is hereby incorporated into the description by express reference.
A tracking device according to the invention for photovoltaic and solar thermal active elements or the like (here also referred to as "solar modules") comprises: erecting means which are
A disadvantage of this is that the inserted spherical hinge necessitates additional elaborate constructional measures in order to prevent uncontrolled rotation of the solar module.
The same is true of the subject matter of US 2013/0008489 Ul.
DE 10 2007 020 235 Al discloses a tracking system with a simple hinge joint, while DE 10 2007 031 289 Al shows a relatively elaborate cross hinge for moving a reflector/absorber.
There is therefore a need for a tracking device of the type mentioned at the outset, characterized by a particular simple and cost-effective structure compared to prior art tracking devices of the generic type and which therefore can be used without any major financial expenditure for improving solar energy recovery.
In particular, by providing a tracking device according to the invention the anticipated cost increase should be so low that amortization is possible by the achievable surplus.
The invention achieves this object by means of a tracking device with the features of claim 1 and by means of an energy recovery device with the features of claim 16. Advantageous refinements of the invention are the subject matter of dependent claims, the wording of which is hereby incorporated into the description by express reference.
A tracking device according to the invention for photovoltaic and solar thermal active elements or the like (here also referred to as "solar modules") comprises: erecting means which are
3 configured to arrange at least one such active element spaced apart from a substrate or surface, and which are configured post-like; supporting means for the active element connected in a hinged manner to the erecting means via hinge means, wherein the hinge means are arranged at an upper end of the post-like erecting means; and movement means, which are configured to move, preferably to pivot, the supporting means relative to the erecting means, and which comprise at least one connecting means, as well as motor means acting on the connecting means, which connecting means is fixed on one side of the supporting means facing the erecting means at at least one attachment point, wherein the motor means act on the connecting means to modify a distance between the erecting means and the attachment point.
This tracking device is characterized in that the hinge means comprise at least a hinge element which hinge element is configured elastically, preferably as an elastomeric element, as a steel or elastomer spring, as a rubber hinge or the like.
In this context, it has proved to be particularly advantageous that the tracking device according to the invention has restoring means for the supporting means, which restoring means ensure that the supporting means, with the active element, essentially automatically move back to a initial position after releasing the connecting means. This is achieved according to the invention in that the hinge means are configured in the manner of an elastomer or rubber hinge or in the form of a spring means (steel or elastomer spring) or the like, which constitutes a so-called elastic or resilient "pseudo-joint", so that the hinge means, as an elastic hinge means, themselves will provide for said restoring force as soon as the supporting means are moved out of their initial position. Separate restoring means can then be omitted, which greatly simplifies the device. Also, in this manner there are no uncontrolled rotations, such as known from spherical hinges (ball joints).
This tracking device is characterized in that the hinge means comprise at least a hinge element which hinge element is configured elastically, preferably as an elastomeric element, as a steel or elastomer spring, as a rubber hinge or the like.
In this context, it has proved to be particularly advantageous that the tracking device according to the invention has restoring means for the supporting means, which restoring means ensure that the supporting means, with the active element, essentially automatically move back to a initial position after releasing the connecting means. This is achieved according to the invention in that the hinge means are configured in the manner of an elastomer or rubber hinge or in the form of a spring means (steel or elastomer spring) or the like, which constitutes a so-called elastic or resilient "pseudo-joint", so that the hinge means, as an elastic hinge means, themselves will provide for said restoring force as soon as the supporting means are moved out of their initial position. Separate restoring means can then be omitted, which greatly simplifies the device. Also, in this manner there are no uncontrolled rotations, such as known from spherical hinges (ball joints).
4 However, the invention is in no way limited to the embodiments described above, in particular the restoring means or the hinge means. In addition, an active backward movement of the supporting means into their initial position is also possible, as will be described in greater detail below.
The tracking device according to the invention can be further developed in such a way that the hinge means comprise a classic hinge in the form of a cross, pivot or ball hinge or the like, in addition to the at least one elastic hinge element, so as to form a kind of "combi hinge". This makes it possible, in particular, for the supporting means to achieve an inclination of up to 900 with respect to the horizontal. For cross bearings or spherical bearings or corresponding hinges alone it is difficult to reach inclinations of more than 600. Even with a spring or an elastic hinge element alone, a great inclination cannot be achieved because the support (the supporting means) becomes vertically unstable due to the high inherent/payload weight. In addition, a very high stress is exerted on the spring.
In the course of a special development, the tracking device according to the invention can be provided so that at least the at least one elastic hinge element interacts with at least one protective element, which protective element is configured and arranged to prevent a rotation of the supporting means about a longitudinal axis of the hinge means, in particular of the at least one elastic hinge element. In particular, the protective element can be configured as a protective element surrounding the at least one elastic hinge element. In particular, it is possible to form the protective element as a (folding) bellows, which surrounds or accommodates the elastic hinge element. Such a protective element can also be used, in particular, in the case of the combi hinge described above.
Furthermore, there can be provided a pretension means operatively linked to the at least one elastic hinge element, which pretension means is configured to selectively adjust or dose a spring action of the at least one elastic hinge element. As a result, an improved stability of the arrangement can also be achieved. The pretension means can be configured as a cable or as a flexible element. It may comprise suitable screwable clamping means. When the elastic member is specifically, but without limitation, configured as a coil spring or the like, the pretension means may be passed through the coil spring in the longitudinal direction thereof to contract the spring.
Preferably, the pretension means is attached, on the one hand, to the supporting means and, on the other hand, to any stationary structure, such as the ground.
A solar energy recovery device according to the invention is characterized in that it comprises a tracking device according to the invention and a photovoltaic or solar thermal active element or the like, which active element is connected to the remaining tracking device via the supporting means.
The movement means of a tracking device according to the invention thus at least comprises a preferably flexible connecting means, which can advantageously be configured as a (steel or wire) cable, as a chain or in another suitable manner.
Furthermore, the tracking device comprises motor means which act on the connecting means, which motor means can interact with the connecting means in a friction, force and/or form-fitting manner, for example by providing suitable friction wheels or gear wheels or the like. The connecting means is fixed at the supporting means, preferably hinged, on one side of the supporting means facing the erecting means at at least one attachment point, for example, by means of an eyelet connection or the like. The motor means act on the connecting means to modify a distance between the erecting means and the attachment point. Since the attachment point is arranged on the supporting means, which in turn are hingedly connected to the erecting means, the change in the distance between the erecting means and the attachment point results in a tilting or pivoting movement of the supporting means and thus of the active element relative to the erecting means, which movement is supported or even enabled by the hinge means.
The exact form of the movement is determined by the type and number of hinge means used, the chosen location of the attachment point, and the length of the connecting means or the position of the motor means.
If the connecting means is advantageously a flexible connecting means, the latter is basically subjected to tension by the motor means for moving the supporting means.
In this context, it can be provided in a further development of the tracing device according to the invention that the motor means are configured for rolling up and unrolling one end of the connecting means or generally for shortening/extending the connecting means. In this way, the supporting means can be moved by rolling the connecting means onto a bobbin or other suitable means by the action of the motor means so that said distance is reduced. The supporting means can be moved back into their initial position by subsequently unrolling the connecting means.
A most preferred development of the tracking device according to the invention provides that at least two connecting means are present which are arranged at a certain angle to one another in their projection onto a plane of the supporting means which plane is regularly oriented parallel to a plane of the active element.
Preferably, this angle can be substantially 900. In this context, it is further provided that the motor means are configured correspondingly to act on at least two connecting means, for example by providing a corresponding plurality of motor units or a suitable gear arrangement. In this way, one motor unit can in each case act on a respective connecting means. By providing a plurality of connecting means in the manner mentioned, more complex movements of the tracking device or of the supporting means can also be carried out in order to increase the efficiency of the solar energy recovery even more.
Furthermore, it be provided for the at least two connecting means to be arranged on the supporting means such that they intersect in their projection onto the plane of the supporting means. As a result, an increased rotational stability can be achieved in the plane of the support (the supporting means).
In the context of the present description, the term "substantially" means that the corresponding features are implemented as precisely as possible, except for the usual manufacturing-related deviations.
In the context of a most preferred development of the tracking device according to the invention, the erecting means each have a guide for the one or more connecting means, preferably in the form of an opening or a aperture in the erecting means, in particular when the latter are configured in the form of a post.
Preferably, such a post has a rectangular or especially square or also a circular or oval cross-section, and the openings or apertures for guiding a respective connecting means extend between opposing sides of the post or erecting means. If openings or apertures are provided for a plurality of connecting means, these openings or apertures are preferably offset to one another in the direction of a longitudinal extension of the erecting means (of the post).
In order to protect the one or more connecting means, it can be provided in the course of a further development of the tracking device according to the invention, that the openings or apertures mentioned have terminal cross-sectional extensions (tulips).
In this context, another highly advantageous development of the tracking device according to the invention provides that the one or more connecting means is/are passed through the respective guide in the erecting means and is/are connected to the supporting means at a respective second attachment point.
Preferably, the two attachment points for each connecting means are arranged symmetrically with respect to the erecting means or the respective guide.
In this context, in a further development of the invention of the tracking device according to the invention it can also be provided that the motor means are configured to move the one or more connecting means past a location of the respective motor element (of the respective motor unit). In this case, the motor means are also configured to immobilize or fix the one or more connecting means against a tilting moment exerted by the supporting means and/or hinge means. As already mentioned, said immobilizing can be effected by friction, force and/or form fitting.
When the one or more connecting means is/are immobilized at the supporting means at two attachment points, an (active) reciprocating movement of the supporting means relative to the erecting means can be achieved in a simple manner principally without the necessity for the restoring force described above.
The abovementioned immobilization against the tilting moment exerted by the supporting means and/or the hinge means or the weight force of the solar active element, serves, in particular, maintain tension at the one or more connecting means in order to achieve a defined and permanent orientation of the supporting means or of the active element.
Yet another development of the tracking device according to the invention provides that the hinge means have a plurality of hinge elements which can preferably be configured as an elastomer hinge, as a rubber hinge, as a spring hinge or the like.
Preferably, in this context, at least an equal number of connecting means is provided, in particular one connecting means per hinge element, which several connecting means are most preferably arranged parallel to one other. In this way, a defined and safe pivoting of the supporting means or the solar active element about a pivot axis is made possible, which is defined by the geometry of the arrangement of the individual hinge elements.
A still further development of the tracking device according to the invention provides that the supporting means are configured as a back support structure for the active element, preferably in the form of a support plate or a support frame. In principle, however, it is within the scope of the invention that the supporting means are configured as part or even as an integral part of the active element, and supplement the remaining tracking device in the manner described by forming or providing attachment points for the one or more connecting means.
In the context of a further embodiment of the tracking device according to the invention it has proven to be extremely advantageous if the motor means are electrically operated, i.e., configured in the form of electric motors. Preferably, the motor means are operable independently of a mains connection, in particular by providing corresponding electrical energy storage means, such as rechargeable batteries or the like.
In the context of yet another development, the tracking device according to the invention can also have a control unit for the motor means. Said control unit is preferably configured as a programmable control unit (processor unit) and is most preferably used to orient the supporting means or the solar active elements in a calendar-determined manner according to the position of the sun. In this context, the term "calendar-determined" means that use of the fact is made that the position of the sun is very precisely known or computable at a given place on earth as a function of a calendar-specific date (day and time). In this way, it is possible to dispense with the provision of complex tracking means or the like which would otherwise make the tracking device according to the invention more expensive. In the context of a calendar-based determination, the position of the sun is not actively detected, rather it is presumed to be known on the basis of calendar considerations. The tracking is then carried out by the control unit according to the described calendar-based determination.
A first development of the energy recovery device according to the invention provides that an energy store is present that is operatively linked to the solar active element. Depending on the type of the active element, this can be, for example, an accumulator or another means for storing electrical energy, or a thermal energy store. Preferably, said energy store serves to provide energy recovered by the energy recovery device or the solar active element for operating the tracking device. Since both the motor means and the control unit require electrical energy for operation according to a preferred embodiment of the tracking device according to the invention, it has proven to be particularly advantageous if the energy store is configured as an accumulator. In this way, the energy recovery device or the tracking device is largely self-sufficient in operation; in particular, it is not necessary to provide an expensive mains connection for operating the tracking device or the energy recovery device.
Another development of the energy recovery device according to the invention provides that said energy recovery device further comprises a grid feed which, if appropriate, can have an inverter or the like in order to be able to feed the energy obtained into an energy supply network. Preferably, this energy supply network is a power grid when the energy recovery device is equipped with a photovoltaic active element or the like.
Finally, another development of the energy recovery device according to the invention provides that said energy recovery device additionally has a communication link, via which communication link the motor means and/or the control unit can be controlled. In addition, the communication link is suitable for querying function parameters of the active element, for example, for determining a currently available power. The communications link may be wired or wireless, with a wireless design having cost advantages.
A particularly cost-effective embodiment of a tracking device and an energy recovery device based thereon can be implemented in the desired manner by the use of flexible connecting means operatively linked to suitable motor or drive means or by the use of elastic hinge elements in conjunction with motor-driven connecting means.
Further characteristics and advantages of the present invention are apparent from the following description of exemplary embodiments with reference to the drawings.
Figure 1 shows schematically a first embodiment of the energy recovery device according to the invention;
Figure 2 shows a detail of the energy recovery device of Figure 1;
Figure 3 shows the energy recovery device of Figure 1 in a pivoted operating state;
Figure 4 shows a bottom view of the energy recovery device of Figure 1;
Figure 5 shows schematically a further embodiment of the energy recovery device according to the invention;
Figure 6 shows a bottom view, in particular, of the energy recovery device of Figure 5;
Figure 7 shows schematically a further embodiment of the energy recovery device according to the invention;
Figure 8 shows schematically yet another embodiment of the energy recovery device according to the invention or of a corresponding tracking device;
Figure 9 shows schematically an embodiment of the energy recovery device according to the invention with strongly pivoted supporting means;
Figure 10 shows schematically an alternative embodiment of the energy recovery device according to the invention with a combi hinge for the purpose of improved pivotability of the supporting means;
Figure 11 shows schematically, in a view from below, an energy recovery device according to the invention with crossed connecting means;
Figure 12 shows the energy recovery device of Figure 11 in a side view;
Figure 13 shows schematically an energy recovery device according to the invention with a pretension means for adjusting the spring action;
Figure 14 shows schematically an embodiment of the energy recovery device according to the invention with a protective element for the elastic hinge element; and Figure 15 shows the embodiment according to Figure 14 in a pivoted state of the supporting means.
Figure 1 shows schematically an embodiment of the energy recovery device according to the invention, which is denoted in its entirety by the reference numeral 1. Energy recovery device 1 comprises a tracking device 2 according to the invention, whose construction will be described in more detail below, which tracking device 2 is configured for moving a photovoltaic module (photovoltaic active element) 3, which active element 3 is represented as a hatched, plate-shaped element in Figure 1. The active element 3 is electrically connected with an energy store
The tracking device according to the invention can be further developed in such a way that the hinge means comprise a classic hinge in the form of a cross, pivot or ball hinge or the like, in addition to the at least one elastic hinge element, so as to form a kind of "combi hinge". This makes it possible, in particular, for the supporting means to achieve an inclination of up to 900 with respect to the horizontal. For cross bearings or spherical bearings or corresponding hinges alone it is difficult to reach inclinations of more than 600. Even with a spring or an elastic hinge element alone, a great inclination cannot be achieved because the support (the supporting means) becomes vertically unstable due to the high inherent/payload weight. In addition, a very high stress is exerted on the spring.
In the course of a special development, the tracking device according to the invention can be provided so that at least the at least one elastic hinge element interacts with at least one protective element, which protective element is configured and arranged to prevent a rotation of the supporting means about a longitudinal axis of the hinge means, in particular of the at least one elastic hinge element. In particular, the protective element can be configured as a protective element surrounding the at least one elastic hinge element. In particular, it is possible to form the protective element as a (folding) bellows, which surrounds or accommodates the elastic hinge element. Such a protective element can also be used, in particular, in the case of the combi hinge described above.
Furthermore, there can be provided a pretension means operatively linked to the at least one elastic hinge element, which pretension means is configured to selectively adjust or dose a spring action of the at least one elastic hinge element. As a result, an improved stability of the arrangement can also be achieved. The pretension means can be configured as a cable or as a flexible element. It may comprise suitable screwable clamping means. When the elastic member is specifically, but without limitation, configured as a coil spring or the like, the pretension means may be passed through the coil spring in the longitudinal direction thereof to contract the spring.
Preferably, the pretension means is attached, on the one hand, to the supporting means and, on the other hand, to any stationary structure, such as the ground.
A solar energy recovery device according to the invention is characterized in that it comprises a tracking device according to the invention and a photovoltaic or solar thermal active element or the like, which active element is connected to the remaining tracking device via the supporting means.
The movement means of a tracking device according to the invention thus at least comprises a preferably flexible connecting means, which can advantageously be configured as a (steel or wire) cable, as a chain or in another suitable manner.
Furthermore, the tracking device comprises motor means which act on the connecting means, which motor means can interact with the connecting means in a friction, force and/or form-fitting manner, for example by providing suitable friction wheels or gear wheels or the like. The connecting means is fixed at the supporting means, preferably hinged, on one side of the supporting means facing the erecting means at at least one attachment point, for example, by means of an eyelet connection or the like. The motor means act on the connecting means to modify a distance between the erecting means and the attachment point. Since the attachment point is arranged on the supporting means, which in turn are hingedly connected to the erecting means, the change in the distance between the erecting means and the attachment point results in a tilting or pivoting movement of the supporting means and thus of the active element relative to the erecting means, which movement is supported or even enabled by the hinge means.
The exact form of the movement is determined by the type and number of hinge means used, the chosen location of the attachment point, and the length of the connecting means or the position of the motor means.
If the connecting means is advantageously a flexible connecting means, the latter is basically subjected to tension by the motor means for moving the supporting means.
In this context, it can be provided in a further development of the tracing device according to the invention that the motor means are configured for rolling up and unrolling one end of the connecting means or generally for shortening/extending the connecting means. In this way, the supporting means can be moved by rolling the connecting means onto a bobbin or other suitable means by the action of the motor means so that said distance is reduced. The supporting means can be moved back into their initial position by subsequently unrolling the connecting means.
A most preferred development of the tracking device according to the invention provides that at least two connecting means are present which are arranged at a certain angle to one another in their projection onto a plane of the supporting means which plane is regularly oriented parallel to a plane of the active element.
Preferably, this angle can be substantially 900. In this context, it is further provided that the motor means are configured correspondingly to act on at least two connecting means, for example by providing a corresponding plurality of motor units or a suitable gear arrangement. In this way, one motor unit can in each case act on a respective connecting means. By providing a plurality of connecting means in the manner mentioned, more complex movements of the tracking device or of the supporting means can also be carried out in order to increase the efficiency of the solar energy recovery even more.
Furthermore, it be provided for the at least two connecting means to be arranged on the supporting means such that they intersect in their projection onto the plane of the supporting means. As a result, an increased rotational stability can be achieved in the plane of the support (the supporting means).
In the context of the present description, the term "substantially" means that the corresponding features are implemented as precisely as possible, except for the usual manufacturing-related deviations.
In the context of a most preferred development of the tracking device according to the invention, the erecting means each have a guide for the one or more connecting means, preferably in the form of an opening or a aperture in the erecting means, in particular when the latter are configured in the form of a post.
Preferably, such a post has a rectangular or especially square or also a circular or oval cross-section, and the openings or apertures for guiding a respective connecting means extend between opposing sides of the post or erecting means. If openings or apertures are provided for a plurality of connecting means, these openings or apertures are preferably offset to one another in the direction of a longitudinal extension of the erecting means (of the post).
In order to protect the one or more connecting means, it can be provided in the course of a further development of the tracking device according to the invention, that the openings or apertures mentioned have terminal cross-sectional extensions (tulips).
In this context, another highly advantageous development of the tracking device according to the invention provides that the one or more connecting means is/are passed through the respective guide in the erecting means and is/are connected to the supporting means at a respective second attachment point.
Preferably, the two attachment points for each connecting means are arranged symmetrically with respect to the erecting means or the respective guide.
In this context, in a further development of the invention of the tracking device according to the invention it can also be provided that the motor means are configured to move the one or more connecting means past a location of the respective motor element (of the respective motor unit). In this case, the motor means are also configured to immobilize or fix the one or more connecting means against a tilting moment exerted by the supporting means and/or hinge means. As already mentioned, said immobilizing can be effected by friction, force and/or form fitting.
When the one or more connecting means is/are immobilized at the supporting means at two attachment points, an (active) reciprocating movement of the supporting means relative to the erecting means can be achieved in a simple manner principally without the necessity for the restoring force described above.
The abovementioned immobilization against the tilting moment exerted by the supporting means and/or the hinge means or the weight force of the solar active element, serves, in particular, maintain tension at the one or more connecting means in order to achieve a defined and permanent orientation of the supporting means or of the active element.
Yet another development of the tracking device according to the invention provides that the hinge means have a plurality of hinge elements which can preferably be configured as an elastomer hinge, as a rubber hinge, as a spring hinge or the like.
Preferably, in this context, at least an equal number of connecting means is provided, in particular one connecting means per hinge element, which several connecting means are most preferably arranged parallel to one other. In this way, a defined and safe pivoting of the supporting means or the solar active element about a pivot axis is made possible, which is defined by the geometry of the arrangement of the individual hinge elements.
A still further development of the tracking device according to the invention provides that the supporting means are configured as a back support structure for the active element, preferably in the form of a support plate or a support frame. In principle, however, it is within the scope of the invention that the supporting means are configured as part or even as an integral part of the active element, and supplement the remaining tracking device in the manner described by forming or providing attachment points for the one or more connecting means.
In the context of a further embodiment of the tracking device according to the invention it has proven to be extremely advantageous if the motor means are electrically operated, i.e., configured in the form of electric motors. Preferably, the motor means are operable independently of a mains connection, in particular by providing corresponding electrical energy storage means, such as rechargeable batteries or the like.
In the context of yet another development, the tracking device according to the invention can also have a control unit for the motor means. Said control unit is preferably configured as a programmable control unit (processor unit) and is most preferably used to orient the supporting means or the solar active elements in a calendar-determined manner according to the position of the sun. In this context, the term "calendar-determined" means that use of the fact is made that the position of the sun is very precisely known or computable at a given place on earth as a function of a calendar-specific date (day and time). In this way, it is possible to dispense with the provision of complex tracking means or the like which would otherwise make the tracking device according to the invention more expensive. In the context of a calendar-based determination, the position of the sun is not actively detected, rather it is presumed to be known on the basis of calendar considerations. The tracking is then carried out by the control unit according to the described calendar-based determination.
A first development of the energy recovery device according to the invention provides that an energy store is present that is operatively linked to the solar active element. Depending on the type of the active element, this can be, for example, an accumulator or another means for storing electrical energy, or a thermal energy store. Preferably, said energy store serves to provide energy recovered by the energy recovery device or the solar active element for operating the tracking device. Since both the motor means and the control unit require electrical energy for operation according to a preferred embodiment of the tracking device according to the invention, it has proven to be particularly advantageous if the energy store is configured as an accumulator. In this way, the energy recovery device or the tracking device is largely self-sufficient in operation; in particular, it is not necessary to provide an expensive mains connection for operating the tracking device or the energy recovery device.
Another development of the energy recovery device according to the invention provides that said energy recovery device further comprises a grid feed which, if appropriate, can have an inverter or the like in order to be able to feed the energy obtained into an energy supply network. Preferably, this energy supply network is a power grid when the energy recovery device is equipped with a photovoltaic active element or the like.
Finally, another development of the energy recovery device according to the invention provides that said energy recovery device additionally has a communication link, via which communication link the motor means and/or the control unit can be controlled. In addition, the communication link is suitable for querying function parameters of the active element, for example, for determining a currently available power. The communications link may be wired or wireless, with a wireless design having cost advantages.
A particularly cost-effective embodiment of a tracking device and an energy recovery device based thereon can be implemented in the desired manner by the use of flexible connecting means operatively linked to suitable motor or drive means or by the use of elastic hinge elements in conjunction with motor-driven connecting means.
Further characteristics and advantages of the present invention are apparent from the following description of exemplary embodiments with reference to the drawings.
Figure 1 shows schematically a first embodiment of the energy recovery device according to the invention;
Figure 2 shows a detail of the energy recovery device of Figure 1;
Figure 3 shows the energy recovery device of Figure 1 in a pivoted operating state;
Figure 4 shows a bottom view of the energy recovery device of Figure 1;
Figure 5 shows schematically a further embodiment of the energy recovery device according to the invention;
Figure 6 shows a bottom view, in particular, of the energy recovery device of Figure 5;
Figure 7 shows schematically a further embodiment of the energy recovery device according to the invention;
Figure 8 shows schematically yet another embodiment of the energy recovery device according to the invention or of a corresponding tracking device;
Figure 9 shows schematically an embodiment of the energy recovery device according to the invention with strongly pivoted supporting means;
Figure 10 shows schematically an alternative embodiment of the energy recovery device according to the invention with a combi hinge for the purpose of improved pivotability of the supporting means;
Figure 11 shows schematically, in a view from below, an energy recovery device according to the invention with crossed connecting means;
Figure 12 shows the energy recovery device of Figure 11 in a side view;
Figure 13 shows schematically an energy recovery device according to the invention with a pretension means for adjusting the spring action;
Figure 14 shows schematically an embodiment of the energy recovery device according to the invention with a protective element for the elastic hinge element; and Figure 15 shows the embodiment according to Figure 14 in a pivoted state of the supporting means.
Figure 1 shows schematically an embodiment of the energy recovery device according to the invention, which is denoted in its entirety by the reference numeral 1. Energy recovery device 1 comprises a tracking device 2 according to the invention, whose construction will be described in more detail below, which tracking device 2 is configured for moving a photovoltaic module (photovoltaic active element) 3, which active element 3 is represented as a hatched, plate-shaped element in Figure 1. The active element 3 is electrically connected with an energy store
5, for example an accumulator, via a line 4. Reference numeral 6 indicates a grid feed for the electrical energy recovered;
optional inverters or the like are not explicitly included in the drawing. Energy store 5 is electrically connected to components of tracking device 2 via another line 7, in order to supply tracking device 2 with electrical energy. This will also be discussed in more detail below.
First, tracking device 2 comprises post-like erecting means 8 as well as supporting means 9, which supporting means 9 are arranged at the back of active element 3 for supporting the same.
Supporting means 9 can be configured in the form of a support plate, a support frame or in any other suitable manner. Hinge means 10 are arranged between an upper part 8a of the erecting means 8 and the supporting means 9, which hinge means hingedly connect supporting means 9 and erecting means 8. Preferably, hinge means 10 are configured in the form of a spring hinge or elastomer hinge and provide for a hinged connection between supporting means 9 and the active element 3 on the one hand, and erecting means 8 on the other hand. Advantageously, the hinged connection is associated with a restoring force directed in the direction of the resting position of the supporting means 9 shown in Figure 1 as soon as supporting means 9 are moved out of the initial or resting position shown in Figure 1 relative to erecting means 8 (cf., Figure 3).
At a bottom 9a of the supporting means 9 facing erecting means 8 there are two attachment points P1, P2 for a flexible connecting means 11 in the form of a steel cable or the like. Connecting means 11 is hingedly connected with supporting means 9 by its one end at attachment point P1 and by its other end at attachment point P2. In this context, the hinged connection itself may be formed due to the flexible design of the connecting means 11, while the connection of connecting means 11 at supporting means 9 in the area of attachment points Pl, P2 is not configured in a hinged manner.
At reference numeral 12, connecting means 11 is passed through erecting means 8 in the area of a corresponding aperture, which aperture 12 extends between two opposing sides 8b, 8c of erecting means 8, which erecting means 8 here specifically have a square cross-section (cf., Figure 4).
In the figures, the clear span of aperture 12 is shown exaggerated in order to simplify the illustration; in the area of aperture 12 the path of the connecting means is shown only symbolically in Figure 1, and in particular also in Figures 5 and 7 (cf., Figure 2 for a more realistic representation). In the area of aperture 12, connecting means 11 interact with motor means, which motor means are provided with reference numeral 13.
Motor means 13 comprise the actual motor element or actual motor unit 14, which is configured here as an electric motor. Motor unit 14 drives a friction wheel 15, which friction wheel 15 performs rotational movements according to double arrow P3 and thereby interacts with its outer circumference in a frictional or force-fitting manner with connecting means 11. Furthermore, motor means 13 comprise a motor control unit 16. Motor means 13, i.e., in particular motor unit 14 and control unit 16, are provided with electrical energy via the line 7 from energy store 5.
Motor means 14 interact with connecting means 11 in the area of the aperture or guide 12 via friction wheel 15 in such a manner so that connecting means 11 - depending on the direction of rotation P3 of friction wheel 15 - can be moved in a reciprocating manner according to double arrow P4 and can also be locked in virtually any desired position. Correspondingly, a distance of the attachment points P1, P2 changes with respect to erecting means 8, which leads to a tilting or pivoting of supporting means 9 with respect to active element 3, which tilting or pivoting is made possible by hinge means 10 (see below, Figure 3). In the tilted state of supporting means 9 or active element 3 the hinge means 10 generate a restoring force in the direction of the initial position shown in Figure 1 which restoring force is compensated by means of a friction wheel 15 mediated holding force on connecting means 11 in order to maintain supporting means 9 or the active element 3 in the tilted position. The return movement back to the initial position according to Figure 1 can also be supported by reversing the direction of rotation of friction wheel 15 or motor unit 14. All of this takes place according to control unit 16, which preferably is configured as a programmable control unit for this purpose. Specifically, control unit 16 includes calendar data and position data (e.g., via GPS), which data make possible to set a tilted position of supporting means 9 or active element 3 depending on a current date and a current time in order to orient active element 3 as beneficial as possible with respect to the position of the sun (cf., Figure 3).
In order to prevent damage to the connecting means 11 in the area where connecting means 11 exits aperture 12, a special embodiment according to Figure 2 provides that guide 12 has a tulip, i.e. a cross-sectional enlargement 12b, at its end sections 12a, in order to gently guide connecting means 11, as illustrated schematically in Figure 2.
Figure 3 shows the energy recovery device 1 in the deflected or tilted position of supporting means 9 or of the active element 3, as described above. Identical reference numerals denote the same or at least equally acting elements here and in all other figures.
Figure 3 clearly shows the bend in the area of hinge means 10, which advantageously results in the restoring force in the direction of the initial position according to Figure 1, as mentioned above. Figure 3 also clearly shows how the distance of attachment points P1 and P2 has changed relative to erecting means 8 because connecting means 11 has been moved through guide 12 from left to right by the corresponding action of motor means 13. In the area of guide 12 friction wheel 15 holds connecting means 11 in the deflected position shown against the restoring force of elastic hinge means 10.
Preferably, points P1 and P2 are arranged in such a way that, particularly in the case of the tilting shown in Figure 3, connecting means (cable) 11 does not have a vertically downwardly directed component.
Sun S and radiation emitted by the sun S' are also shown symbolically in Figure 3, wherein in the position shown in Figure 3, the sunrays S' impinge perpendicularly, i.e., in the direction of a surface normal, on the active element 3, resulting in a maximum efficiency of the active element 3.
In order to return to the initial position according to Figure 1 from the position shown in Figure 3, it may already suffice to partially release friction wheel 15, whereupon a tilting moment of the arrangement or the restoring force of hinge means 10 provides for a movement of supporting means 9 or of active element 3 back in the initial position according to Figure 1. Of course, the return movement can be suitably supported by motor means 13 (reversing the direction of rotation of the motor).
For reasons of clarity, only one connecting means 11 is shown in Figures 1 and 3. As shown by the bottom view of supporting means 9 according to Figure 4, tracking device 2 advantageously has two guides or apertures 12, 12' for respective two connecting means 11, 11' in the upper area of erecting means 8, wherein guides 12, 12' and connecting means 11, 11' are arranged orthogonally with respect to one another, i.e., at an angle of 90 , with respect to the projection onto the bottom 9a of supporting means 9. In this case, apertures 12, 12' are located at different heights with respect to erecting means 8 so that connecting means 11, 11' do not collide with one another during operation. The motor means are not shown in Figure 4 for reasons of clarity; in principle, a separate motor element may be provided for each connecting means 11, 11'. It is also within the scope of the invention to provide only one common motor unit for acting on both connecting means 11, 11', which then acts on a respective friction wheel for each of the connecting means 11, 11' via a suitable gear arrangement.
According to Figure 4, the movement of connecting means 11, 11' takes place in accordance with arrows P4 and P4', as described above for the connecting means 11 with reference to Figure 1 and Figure 3. In this way, even more complex tracking movements can be implemented because more than one tilting or pivoting axis is available.
In principle, the invention is not limited to a specific number of connecting means 11, 11' or to specific angular arrangements of the connecting means relative to one another.
Preferably, all apertures or guides 12, 12', in particular according to Figure 4, have a tulip-shaped configuration according to Figure 2 at their open ends, in order to preserve the inserted connecting means 11, 11'.
Figure 5 shows an alternative embodiment of the energy recovery device or the tracking device, which are denoted with the reference symbols 1' or 2' in Figure 5. By contrast to the embodiment of Figures 1 and 3, in place of a friction wheel in conjunction with motor means 13, there is provided a coil 15', which can be rotated according to the double arrow P3 by motor unit 14 according to control unit 16. Spool 15' serves to roll up the end of connecting means 11, which is not attached to supporting means 9 at attachment point P1 in the manner described.
In this way, the movement of connecting means 11 according to the double arrow P4 is effected by rolling up or unrolling connecting means 11 onto or from coil 15', which in turn causes supporting means 9 to tilt or pivot with active element 3. In this case, in addition to the aforementioned tilting of supporting means 9 with active element 3, rolling up connecting mean 11 onto coil 15' causes a restoring force into the initial position according to Figure 5 as a result of the deflection of hinge means 10 (cf., Figure 3) so that supporting means 9 with active element 3 can then again move back into the position according to Figure 5 by releasing coil 15'.
It is, of course, within the scope of the invention to provide a further coil analogous to 15' and a further connecting means (not shown) which further connecting means is attached at supporting means 9 at a further attachment point analogous to P2 analogously to connecting means 11 according to Figure 1 or Figure 3. In this way, the return movement into the initial position according to Figure 5 could be actively effected by rolling up or unrolling said further connecting means.
As the bottom view according to Figure 6 shows, three guides 12, 12', 12" and corresponding connecting means 11, 11', 11" can be provided in a further development of the embodiment according to Figure 5, which are arranged at a relative angle of 1200, the representation of the corresponding motor means or coils being omitted for reasons of clarity. By rolling up or unrolling connecting means 11 and/or connecting means 11' and/or connecting means 11" more complex movements of supporting means 9 or of the active element located thereon (not shown in Figure 6) can be achieved. Specifically and without limitation, erecting means (posts) 8 have a circular cross-section.
As already indicated, further connecting means and associated motor means may also be present in the embodiment according to Figure 6, wherein said further connecting means would preferably extend in the extension of connecting means 11 or 11' or 11" in order to be able to actively effect the return movement into the initial position according Figure 5.
It should also be noted that the embodiment according to Figure 4 is, of course, not limited to a right-angled relative arrangement of the connecting means shown therein or to the provision of exactly two such connecting means, cf. Figure 6.
Figure 7 shows a further embodiment of energy recovery device 1 or tracking device 2, which largely corresponds to the embodiment in Figure 1 or Figure 3. It is noteworthy, however, that hinge means 10 extend starting from the top 8a of erecting means 8 into the area of a depression 9b at the bottom 9a of supporting means 9. This has the advantage that a lateral distance of supporting means 9 from erecting means 8 can be reduced when supporting means 9 is pivoted or tilted with active element 3 (cf., Figure 3), which is favorable to the prevailing forces. In particular, it may be easier in this way to move supporting means 9 or active element 3 back into the initial position according to Figure 7.
As will be readily appreciated by those skilled in the art, the embodiment according to Figure 7 can be used both with the basic embodiment of energy recovery device 1 according to Figure 1 and Figure 3 as well as with the basic embodiment of energy recovery device l' according to Figure 5.
Finally, Figure 8 schematically shows yet another embodiment of at least the tracking device according to the invention, which is denoted here by reference numeral 2".
Here, two post-like erecting means 8, 8' are provided, which have hinge means 10, 10' at their respective top. Respective connecting means 11, 11' extend in the area of respective apertures or guides 12, 12' between attachment points Pl, P2 or P1' or P2'. Here, connecting means 11, 11' run parallel to one another, which allows pivoting or tilting movements of supporting means 9 together with active element 3 about a pivot axis SA
(dashed-dotted line). This is symbolized in Figure 8 by means of the double arrows P5. Particularly in this embodiment of the invention, the connecting means need not necessarily be configured as flexible elements. A rigid configuration is also possible and is basically not limited to the embodiment according to Figure 8.
In this way there is only one pivot axis SA, in particular in contrast to the two pivot axes according to Figure 4 or Figure 6, the stability of the arrangement, however, is significantly increased.
It should be noted at this point that even a single-axis tracking system offers significant advantages over rigidly mounted active elements 3 in view of the attainable efficiency.
The basic embodiment according to Figure 8 is, of course, not limited to the provision of two erecting means 8, 8' with corresponding hinge means 10, 10', but can be extended as desired in any case in order to reliably track in particular large-area heavy active elements 3.
Moreover, the invention is not limited with respect to the motor and connecting means utilized. For example, another embodiment of the invention, which is not explicitly shown, provides that the motor means have suitable gearwheels instead of friction wheels or coils which gearwheels interact with chain-shaped connecting means for a suitable reciprocating movement in order to move the supporting means.
Common to all the embodiments shown and described is a particularly simple configuration of both the hinge and the movement means in order to enable cost-effective tracking with correspondingly increased efficiency. In this case, the combination of elastic hinge means, which function as restoring means, together with flexible connecting means is optimal.
Figure 9 shows schematically an embodiment of energy recovery device 1 according to the invention or of a tracking device 2 according to the invention, in which the same reference numerals denote the same or at least equally acting elements as in the preceding figures.
According to Figure 9, the shown hinge means 10 is formed specifically and without limitation as a coil spring which is arranged at the upper end of post-like erecting means 8.
Supporting means 9 are shown in a position in which they are inclined almost 90 with respect to the horizontal. This can adversely result in very high stress on elastic hinge element 10;
in addition, supporting means 9 become vertically very unstable due to the high inherent/payload weight in the position shown.
In order to provide a remedy in this regard, a special development of energy recovery device 1 or of tracking device 2 according to Figure 10 provides for implementing a so-called combi hinge instead of the simple elastic hinge element 10 shown in Figure 9, which combi hinge further provides for a so-called classic hinge 10" which may be, for example, a cross hinge (cross bearings) or a ball hinge (spherical bearing) in addition to the aforementioned elastic hinge element 10 which in turn can be configured as a coil spring.
According to the embodiment in Figure 10, the classic joint 10"
is arranged at the distal end of elastic hinge element 10. As shown by the representation in Figure 10, in this way, in order to achieve pivoting of supporting means 9 by almost 90 with respect to the horizontal, it is no longer necessary to possibly excessively stress elastic hinge element 10. According to the representation in Figure 10, the deformation of elastic hinge element 10 only causes a pivoting of supporting means 9 by an angle a which can be approximately 45 . The further pivoting results from the presence of the classic hinge 10", as a result of which elastic hinge element 10 is subjected to less stress than in Figure 9.
As will be readily appreciated by those skilled in the art, the implementation of the combi hinge shown by way of example with reference to Figure 10 is not limited to the particular arrangement shown of coil spring 10 and classic joint 10". For example, classic hinge 10" could also be arranged directly at the post-like erecting means 8, and elastic hinge element 10 could be correspondingly arranged downstream. The provision of more than one elastic hinge element 10 and/or more than one classic hinge 10" is also possible. Various types of classic hinges 10" can also be used.
Figure 11 shows in a view from below - approximately corresponding to the representation in Figure 4 or Figure 6 - an embodiment of energy recovery device 1 or tracking device 2 according to the invention, wherein a number of cross-connected connecting means 11, 11' are provided. Shown is a view from below on supporting means 9, wherein reference numeral 10 again indicates the location of the at least one elastic hinge element.
Connecting means 11, 11' are attached to support means 9 at points Pl, P2 or P1', P2'. They extend from said attachment points Pl, P2 and P1', P2' to a common attachment point in each case, which is denoted by the reference numerals PO and PO', respectively. This last-mentioned attachment point PO, PO' is located, for example, at ground E or another fixed location according to the side view in Figure 12. It is important here that point PO is closer to points P1', P2' than to points P1, P2.
The same is true, vice versa, for point PO'. In this way, connecting means 11, 11' shown run crosswise which increases a rotational stability in the plane of the support or supporting means 9.
The motor means, which are operatively linked to connecting means 11, 11' for moving supporting means 9, are not shown in Figures 11 and 12 for reasons of clarity.
Figure 13 schematically shows how the spring action of elastic hinge element 10, which again is configured specifically and without limitation as a coil spring, can be specifically adjusted or dosed. For this purpose, pretension means 17 is provided, which can be configured, for example, in the manner shown:
Pretension means 17 comprises two parts 17a, 17b, the first 17a of which is attached, without limitation, to ground E or another suitable structure. The second part 17b is attached to supporting means 9 and can specifically extend through elastic hinge element 10, in particular when hinge element 10 is configured as a coil spring, as shown in Figure 13. The free ends of parts 17a, 17b are connected by means of a suitable tensioning device 17c, in order to implement pretension means 17 by means of which (by actuation of tensioning device 17c) a pretension of elastic element 10 can be specifically influenced in order to set or dose the spring action thereof. In this context reference numeral 8' denotes a suitable abutment for elastic hinge element 10 in order to be able to build up the desired pretension. Abutment 8' can, in particular - but without limitation - be a component of the erecting means, which are not further indicated in Figure 13. In the course of a specific embodiment of energy recovery device 1 or tracking device 2, it can be provided, for example, that pretension means 17 is essentially completely located in the interior of post-like erecting means 8 (not shown in Figure 13).
Abutment 8' can then be arranged at the upper end of the aforementioned erecting means.
According to Figure 13, tensioning device 17c is configured in a manner known per se and permits a reduction in the distance between parts 17a and 17b of pretension means 17 by a simple screw movement. However, the invention is in no way limited to such an embodiment of the tensioning device, as readily appreciated by the person skilled in the art.
Figure 14 shows schematically a specific development of energy recovery device 1 or tracking device 2 according to the invention, in which additionally a protective element or stabilizing element 18 surrounding elastic hinge element 10 like a bellows (accordion) is present at the upper end of the post-like erecting means 8 in addition to the elastic hinge element 10, which again is specifically configured as a coil spring.
Protective element 18 is intended to prevent supporting means 9 from rotating about the longitudinal axis of elastic hinge element 10 (torsional movement). In this way, the stability of the overall arrangement and thus also the useful life of elastic hinge element 10 can be increased. In addition, protective element 18 also protects elastic element 10 from external damage, since it completely surrounds elastic hinge element 10 according to the sectional views in Figures 14 and 15. In this case, protective element 18 bridges the space between the end of the post-like erecting means 8 and supporting means 9, as shown.
Specific implementations of protective element 18 are not limited to the type shown in exemplary fashion in Figures 14 and 15. In principle, any type of protective element suitable for effectively preventing the described rotation about the longitudinal axis of elastic hinge element 10 can be used.
Moreover, the use of the described protective element is not limited to arrangements which exclusively comprise an elastic hinge element 10 as hinge means. A protective element of this type can also be used, in particular, in the embodiment according to Figure 10, which in addition comprises a classic joint 10".
In this case, it is possible in principle for the protective element to surround both the first hinge element 10 and the classic hinge 10" in a protective manner. However, it is also within the scope of the invention that only one of said hinge means is surrounded or protected by the protective element.
As will be appreciated by a person skilled in the art, in a most preferred embodiment of the energy recovery device 1 or tracking device 2 according to the invention, it can be provided that said energy recovery device 1 or tracking device 2 comprises all the feature complexes described with reference to Figures 10 to 15 in any combinations. In particular, an embodiment is within the scope of the invention in which embodiment a protective element, a pretension means and a cross-over arrangement of the connecting means are also used in addition to the combi hinge described.
In this way, it is possible to implement a flexible and permanently usable arrangement with relatively simple means.
optional inverters or the like are not explicitly included in the drawing. Energy store 5 is electrically connected to components of tracking device 2 via another line 7, in order to supply tracking device 2 with electrical energy. This will also be discussed in more detail below.
First, tracking device 2 comprises post-like erecting means 8 as well as supporting means 9, which supporting means 9 are arranged at the back of active element 3 for supporting the same.
Supporting means 9 can be configured in the form of a support plate, a support frame or in any other suitable manner. Hinge means 10 are arranged between an upper part 8a of the erecting means 8 and the supporting means 9, which hinge means hingedly connect supporting means 9 and erecting means 8. Preferably, hinge means 10 are configured in the form of a spring hinge or elastomer hinge and provide for a hinged connection between supporting means 9 and the active element 3 on the one hand, and erecting means 8 on the other hand. Advantageously, the hinged connection is associated with a restoring force directed in the direction of the resting position of the supporting means 9 shown in Figure 1 as soon as supporting means 9 are moved out of the initial or resting position shown in Figure 1 relative to erecting means 8 (cf., Figure 3).
At a bottom 9a of the supporting means 9 facing erecting means 8 there are two attachment points P1, P2 for a flexible connecting means 11 in the form of a steel cable or the like. Connecting means 11 is hingedly connected with supporting means 9 by its one end at attachment point P1 and by its other end at attachment point P2. In this context, the hinged connection itself may be formed due to the flexible design of the connecting means 11, while the connection of connecting means 11 at supporting means 9 in the area of attachment points Pl, P2 is not configured in a hinged manner.
At reference numeral 12, connecting means 11 is passed through erecting means 8 in the area of a corresponding aperture, which aperture 12 extends between two opposing sides 8b, 8c of erecting means 8, which erecting means 8 here specifically have a square cross-section (cf., Figure 4).
In the figures, the clear span of aperture 12 is shown exaggerated in order to simplify the illustration; in the area of aperture 12 the path of the connecting means is shown only symbolically in Figure 1, and in particular also in Figures 5 and 7 (cf., Figure 2 for a more realistic representation). In the area of aperture 12, connecting means 11 interact with motor means, which motor means are provided with reference numeral 13.
Motor means 13 comprise the actual motor element or actual motor unit 14, which is configured here as an electric motor. Motor unit 14 drives a friction wheel 15, which friction wheel 15 performs rotational movements according to double arrow P3 and thereby interacts with its outer circumference in a frictional or force-fitting manner with connecting means 11. Furthermore, motor means 13 comprise a motor control unit 16. Motor means 13, i.e., in particular motor unit 14 and control unit 16, are provided with electrical energy via the line 7 from energy store 5.
Motor means 14 interact with connecting means 11 in the area of the aperture or guide 12 via friction wheel 15 in such a manner so that connecting means 11 - depending on the direction of rotation P3 of friction wheel 15 - can be moved in a reciprocating manner according to double arrow P4 and can also be locked in virtually any desired position. Correspondingly, a distance of the attachment points P1, P2 changes with respect to erecting means 8, which leads to a tilting or pivoting of supporting means 9 with respect to active element 3, which tilting or pivoting is made possible by hinge means 10 (see below, Figure 3). In the tilted state of supporting means 9 or active element 3 the hinge means 10 generate a restoring force in the direction of the initial position shown in Figure 1 which restoring force is compensated by means of a friction wheel 15 mediated holding force on connecting means 11 in order to maintain supporting means 9 or the active element 3 in the tilted position. The return movement back to the initial position according to Figure 1 can also be supported by reversing the direction of rotation of friction wheel 15 or motor unit 14. All of this takes place according to control unit 16, which preferably is configured as a programmable control unit for this purpose. Specifically, control unit 16 includes calendar data and position data (e.g., via GPS), which data make possible to set a tilted position of supporting means 9 or active element 3 depending on a current date and a current time in order to orient active element 3 as beneficial as possible with respect to the position of the sun (cf., Figure 3).
In order to prevent damage to the connecting means 11 in the area where connecting means 11 exits aperture 12, a special embodiment according to Figure 2 provides that guide 12 has a tulip, i.e. a cross-sectional enlargement 12b, at its end sections 12a, in order to gently guide connecting means 11, as illustrated schematically in Figure 2.
Figure 3 shows the energy recovery device 1 in the deflected or tilted position of supporting means 9 or of the active element 3, as described above. Identical reference numerals denote the same or at least equally acting elements here and in all other figures.
Figure 3 clearly shows the bend in the area of hinge means 10, which advantageously results in the restoring force in the direction of the initial position according to Figure 1, as mentioned above. Figure 3 also clearly shows how the distance of attachment points P1 and P2 has changed relative to erecting means 8 because connecting means 11 has been moved through guide 12 from left to right by the corresponding action of motor means 13. In the area of guide 12 friction wheel 15 holds connecting means 11 in the deflected position shown against the restoring force of elastic hinge means 10.
Preferably, points P1 and P2 are arranged in such a way that, particularly in the case of the tilting shown in Figure 3, connecting means (cable) 11 does not have a vertically downwardly directed component.
Sun S and radiation emitted by the sun S' are also shown symbolically in Figure 3, wherein in the position shown in Figure 3, the sunrays S' impinge perpendicularly, i.e., in the direction of a surface normal, on the active element 3, resulting in a maximum efficiency of the active element 3.
In order to return to the initial position according to Figure 1 from the position shown in Figure 3, it may already suffice to partially release friction wheel 15, whereupon a tilting moment of the arrangement or the restoring force of hinge means 10 provides for a movement of supporting means 9 or of active element 3 back in the initial position according to Figure 1. Of course, the return movement can be suitably supported by motor means 13 (reversing the direction of rotation of the motor).
For reasons of clarity, only one connecting means 11 is shown in Figures 1 and 3. As shown by the bottom view of supporting means 9 according to Figure 4, tracking device 2 advantageously has two guides or apertures 12, 12' for respective two connecting means 11, 11' in the upper area of erecting means 8, wherein guides 12, 12' and connecting means 11, 11' are arranged orthogonally with respect to one another, i.e., at an angle of 90 , with respect to the projection onto the bottom 9a of supporting means 9. In this case, apertures 12, 12' are located at different heights with respect to erecting means 8 so that connecting means 11, 11' do not collide with one another during operation. The motor means are not shown in Figure 4 for reasons of clarity; in principle, a separate motor element may be provided for each connecting means 11, 11'. It is also within the scope of the invention to provide only one common motor unit for acting on both connecting means 11, 11', which then acts on a respective friction wheel for each of the connecting means 11, 11' via a suitable gear arrangement.
According to Figure 4, the movement of connecting means 11, 11' takes place in accordance with arrows P4 and P4', as described above for the connecting means 11 with reference to Figure 1 and Figure 3. In this way, even more complex tracking movements can be implemented because more than one tilting or pivoting axis is available.
In principle, the invention is not limited to a specific number of connecting means 11, 11' or to specific angular arrangements of the connecting means relative to one another.
Preferably, all apertures or guides 12, 12', in particular according to Figure 4, have a tulip-shaped configuration according to Figure 2 at their open ends, in order to preserve the inserted connecting means 11, 11'.
Figure 5 shows an alternative embodiment of the energy recovery device or the tracking device, which are denoted with the reference symbols 1' or 2' in Figure 5. By contrast to the embodiment of Figures 1 and 3, in place of a friction wheel in conjunction with motor means 13, there is provided a coil 15', which can be rotated according to the double arrow P3 by motor unit 14 according to control unit 16. Spool 15' serves to roll up the end of connecting means 11, which is not attached to supporting means 9 at attachment point P1 in the manner described.
In this way, the movement of connecting means 11 according to the double arrow P4 is effected by rolling up or unrolling connecting means 11 onto or from coil 15', which in turn causes supporting means 9 to tilt or pivot with active element 3. In this case, in addition to the aforementioned tilting of supporting means 9 with active element 3, rolling up connecting mean 11 onto coil 15' causes a restoring force into the initial position according to Figure 5 as a result of the deflection of hinge means 10 (cf., Figure 3) so that supporting means 9 with active element 3 can then again move back into the position according to Figure 5 by releasing coil 15'.
It is, of course, within the scope of the invention to provide a further coil analogous to 15' and a further connecting means (not shown) which further connecting means is attached at supporting means 9 at a further attachment point analogous to P2 analogously to connecting means 11 according to Figure 1 or Figure 3. In this way, the return movement into the initial position according to Figure 5 could be actively effected by rolling up or unrolling said further connecting means.
As the bottom view according to Figure 6 shows, three guides 12, 12', 12" and corresponding connecting means 11, 11', 11" can be provided in a further development of the embodiment according to Figure 5, which are arranged at a relative angle of 1200, the representation of the corresponding motor means or coils being omitted for reasons of clarity. By rolling up or unrolling connecting means 11 and/or connecting means 11' and/or connecting means 11" more complex movements of supporting means 9 or of the active element located thereon (not shown in Figure 6) can be achieved. Specifically and without limitation, erecting means (posts) 8 have a circular cross-section.
As already indicated, further connecting means and associated motor means may also be present in the embodiment according to Figure 6, wherein said further connecting means would preferably extend in the extension of connecting means 11 or 11' or 11" in order to be able to actively effect the return movement into the initial position according Figure 5.
It should also be noted that the embodiment according to Figure 4 is, of course, not limited to a right-angled relative arrangement of the connecting means shown therein or to the provision of exactly two such connecting means, cf. Figure 6.
Figure 7 shows a further embodiment of energy recovery device 1 or tracking device 2, which largely corresponds to the embodiment in Figure 1 or Figure 3. It is noteworthy, however, that hinge means 10 extend starting from the top 8a of erecting means 8 into the area of a depression 9b at the bottom 9a of supporting means 9. This has the advantage that a lateral distance of supporting means 9 from erecting means 8 can be reduced when supporting means 9 is pivoted or tilted with active element 3 (cf., Figure 3), which is favorable to the prevailing forces. In particular, it may be easier in this way to move supporting means 9 or active element 3 back into the initial position according to Figure 7.
As will be readily appreciated by those skilled in the art, the embodiment according to Figure 7 can be used both with the basic embodiment of energy recovery device 1 according to Figure 1 and Figure 3 as well as with the basic embodiment of energy recovery device l' according to Figure 5.
Finally, Figure 8 schematically shows yet another embodiment of at least the tracking device according to the invention, which is denoted here by reference numeral 2".
Here, two post-like erecting means 8, 8' are provided, which have hinge means 10, 10' at their respective top. Respective connecting means 11, 11' extend in the area of respective apertures or guides 12, 12' between attachment points Pl, P2 or P1' or P2'. Here, connecting means 11, 11' run parallel to one another, which allows pivoting or tilting movements of supporting means 9 together with active element 3 about a pivot axis SA
(dashed-dotted line). This is symbolized in Figure 8 by means of the double arrows P5. Particularly in this embodiment of the invention, the connecting means need not necessarily be configured as flexible elements. A rigid configuration is also possible and is basically not limited to the embodiment according to Figure 8.
In this way there is only one pivot axis SA, in particular in contrast to the two pivot axes according to Figure 4 or Figure 6, the stability of the arrangement, however, is significantly increased.
It should be noted at this point that even a single-axis tracking system offers significant advantages over rigidly mounted active elements 3 in view of the attainable efficiency.
The basic embodiment according to Figure 8 is, of course, not limited to the provision of two erecting means 8, 8' with corresponding hinge means 10, 10', but can be extended as desired in any case in order to reliably track in particular large-area heavy active elements 3.
Moreover, the invention is not limited with respect to the motor and connecting means utilized. For example, another embodiment of the invention, which is not explicitly shown, provides that the motor means have suitable gearwheels instead of friction wheels or coils which gearwheels interact with chain-shaped connecting means for a suitable reciprocating movement in order to move the supporting means.
Common to all the embodiments shown and described is a particularly simple configuration of both the hinge and the movement means in order to enable cost-effective tracking with correspondingly increased efficiency. In this case, the combination of elastic hinge means, which function as restoring means, together with flexible connecting means is optimal.
Figure 9 shows schematically an embodiment of energy recovery device 1 according to the invention or of a tracking device 2 according to the invention, in which the same reference numerals denote the same or at least equally acting elements as in the preceding figures.
According to Figure 9, the shown hinge means 10 is formed specifically and without limitation as a coil spring which is arranged at the upper end of post-like erecting means 8.
Supporting means 9 are shown in a position in which they are inclined almost 90 with respect to the horizontal. This can adversely result in very high stress on elastic hinge element 10;
in addition, supporting means 9 become vertically very unstable due to the high inherent/payload weight in the position shown.
In order to provide a remedy in this regard, a special development of energy recovery device 1 or of tracking device 2 according to Figure 10 provides for implementing a so-called combi hinge instead of the simple elastic hinge element 10 shown in Figure 9, which combi hinge further provides for a so-called classic hinge 10" which may be, for example, a cross hinge (cross bearings) or a ball hinge (spherical bearing) in addition to the aforementioned elastic hinge element 10 which in turn can be configured as a coil spring.
According to the embodiment in Figure 10, the classic joint 10"
is arranged at the distal end of elastic hinge element 10. As shown by the representation in Figure 10, in this way, in order to achieve pivoting of supporting means 9 by almost 90 with respect to the horizontal, it is no longer necessary to possibly excessively stress elastic hinge element 10. According to the representation in Figure 10, the deformation of elastic hinge element 10 only causes a pivoting of supporting means 9 by an angle a which can be approximately 45 . The further pivoting results from the presence of the classic hinge 10", as a result of which elastic hinge element 10 is subjected to less stress than in Figure 9.
As will be readily appreciated by those skilled in the art, the implementation of the combi hinge shown by way of example with reference to Figure 10 is not limited to the particular arrangement shown of coil spring 10 and classic joint 10". For example, classic hinge 10" could also be arranged directly at the post-like erecting means 8, and elastic hinge element 10 could be correspondingly arranged downstream. The provision of more than one elastic hinge element 10 and/or more than one classic hinge 10" is also possible. Various types of classic hinges 10" can also be used.
Figure 11 shows in a view from below - approximately corresponding to the representation in Figure 4 or Figure 6 - an embodiment of energy recovery device 1 or tracking device 2 according to the invention, wherein a number of cross-connected connecting means 11, 11' are provided. Shown is a view from below on supporting means 9, wherein reference numeral 10 again indicates the location of the at least one elastic hinge element.
Connecting means 11, 11' are attached to support means 9 at points Pl, P2 or P1', P2'. They extend from said attachment points Pl, P2 and P1', P2' to a common attachment point in each case, which is denoted by the reference numerals PO and PO', respectively. This last-mentioned attachment point PO, PO' is located, for example, at ground E or another fixed location according to the side view in Figure 12. It is important here that point PO is closer to points P1', P2' than to points P1, P2.
The same is true, vice versa, for point PO'. In this way, connecting means 11, 11' shown run crosswise which increases a rotational stability in the plane of the support or supporting means 9.
The motor means, which are operatively linked to connecting means 11, 11' for moving supporting means 9, are not shown in Figures 11 and 12 for reasons of clarity.
Figure 13 schematically shows how the spring action of elastic hinge element 10, which again is configured specifically and without limitation as a coil spring, can be specifically adjusted or dosed. For this purpose, pretension means 17 is provided, which can be configured, for example, in the manner shown:
Pretension means 17 comprises two parts 17a, 17b, the first 17a of which is attached, without limitation, to ground E or another suitable structure. The second part 17b is attached to supporting means 9 and can specifically extend through elastic hinge element 10, in particular when hinge element 10 is configured as a coil spring, as shown in Figure 13. The free ends of parts 17a, 17b are connected by means of a suitable tensioning device 17c, in order to implement pretension means 17 by means of which (by actuation of tensioning device 17c) a pretension of elastic element 10 can be specifically influenced in order to set or dose the spring action thereof. In this context reference numeral 8' denotes a suitable abutment for elastic hinge element 10 in order to be able to build up the desired pretension. Abutment 8' can, in particular - but without limitation - be a component of the erecting means, which are not further indicated in Figure 13. In the course of a specific embodiment of energy recovery device 1 or tracking device 2, it can be provided, for example, that pretension means 17 is essentially completely located in the interior of post-like erecting means 8 (not shown in Figure 13).
Abutment 8' can then be arranged at the upper end of the aforementioned erecting means.
According to Figure 13, tensioning device 17c is configured in a manner known per se and permits a reduction in the distance between parts 17a and 17b of pretension means 17 by a simple screw movement. However, the invention is in no way limited to such an embodiment of the tensioning device, as readily appreciated by the person skilled in the art.
Figure 14 shows schematically a specific development of energy recovery device 1 or tracking device 2 according to the invention, in which additionally a protective element or stabilizing element 18 surrounding elastic hinge element 10 like a bellows (accordion) is present at the upper end of the post-like erecting means 8 in addition to the elastic hinge element 10, which again is specifically configured as a coil spring.
Protective element 18 is intended to prevent supporting means 9 from rotating about the longitudinal axis of elastic hinge element 10 (torsional movement). In this way, the stability of the overall arrangement and thus also the useful life of elastic hinge element 10 can be increased. In addition, protective element 18 also protects elastic element 10 from external damage, since it completely surrounds elastic hinge element 10 according to the sectional views in Figures 14 and 15. In this case, protective element 18 bridges the space between the end of the post-like erecting means 8 and supporting means 9, as shown.
Specific implementations of protective element 18 are not limited to the type shown in exemplary fashion in Figures 14 and 15. In principle, any type of protective element suitable for effectively preventing the described rotation about the longitudinal axis of elastic hinge element 10 can be used.
Moreover, the use of the described protective element is not limited to arrangements which exclusively comprise an elastic hinge element 10 as hinge means. A protective element of this type can also be used, in particular, in the embodiment according to Figure 10, which in addition comprises a classic joint 10".
In this case, it is possible in principle for the protective element to surround both the first hinge element 10 and the classic hinge 10" in a protective manner. However, it is also within the scope of the invention that only one of said hinge means is surrounded or protected by the protective element.
As will be appreciated by a person skilled in the art, in a most preferred embodiment of the energy recovery device 1 or tracking device 2 according to the invention, it can be provided that said energy recovery device 1 or tracking device 2 comprises all the feature complexes described with reference to Figures 10 to 15 in any combinations. In particular, an embodiment is within the scope of the invention in which embodiment a protective element, a pretension means and a cross-over arrangement of the connecting means are also used in addition to the combi hinge described.
In this way, it is possible to implement a flexible and permanently usable arrangement with relatively simple means.
Claims (19)
1. A tracking device (2, 2', 2") for photovoltaic and solar thermal active elements (3) or the like, comprising:
erecting means (8, 8") which are configured to arrange at least one such active element (3) spaced apart from a substrate or surface, and which are configured post-like; supporting means (9) for the active element (3) connected in a hinged manner to the erecting means (8, 8') via hinge means (10, 10'), wherein the hinge means (10, 10') are arranged at an upper end (8a) of the post-like erecting means (8, 8'); and movement means, which are configured to move, preferably to pivot, the supporting means (9) relative to the erecting means (8, 8'), and which comprise at least one connecting means (11, 11'), as well as motor means (13) acting on the connecting means, which connecting means (11, 11') is fixed on one side (9a) of the supporting means (9) facing the erecting means (8, 8') at at least one attachment point (P1, P2, P1', P2'), wherein the motor means (13) act on the connecting means (11, 11') to modify a distance between the erecting means (8, 8') and the attachment point (P1, P2, P1', P2');
characterized in that the hinge means (10, 10') comprise at least one hinge element, which hinge element is configured elastically, preferably as an elastomer element, as a steel or elastomer spring, as a rubber hinge or the like.
erecting means (8, 8") which are configured to arrange at least one such active element (3) spaced apart from a substrate or surface, and which are configured post-like; supporting means (9) for the active element (3) connected in a hinged manner to the erecting means (8, 8') via hinge means (10, 10'), wherein the hinge means (10, 10') are arranged at an upper end (8a) of the post-like erecting means (8, 8'); and movement means, which are configured to move, preferably to pivot, the supporting means (9) relative to the erecting means (8, 8'), and which comprise at least one connecting means (11, 11'), as well as motor means (13) acting on the connecting means, which connecting means (11, 11') is fixed on one side (9a) of the supporting means (9) facing the erecting means (8, 8') at at least one attachment point (P1, P2, P1', P2'), wherein the motor means (13) act on the connecting means (11, 11') to modify a distance between the erecting means (8, 8') and the attachment point (P1, P2, P1', P2');
characterized in that the hinge means (10, 10') comprise at least one hinge element, which hinge element is configured elastically, preferably as an elastomer element, as a steel or elastomer spring, as a rubber hinge or the like.
2. The tracking device (2) according to claim 1, characterized in that the hinge means comprise a classic hinge (10") in the form of a cross, pivot or ball hinge or the like, in addition to the at least one elastic hinge element (10).
3. The tracking device (2, 2', 2") according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that the connecting means (11, 11') is configured as a flexible connecting means, preferably as a steel cable, chain or the like.
4. The tracking device (2, 2', 2") according to at least one of claims 1 to 3, characterized in that the motor means (13) are configured to roll up or unroll one end of the connecting means (11, 11') or shorten/extend the connecting means.
5. The tracking device (2, 2', 2") according to at least one of claims 1 to 4, characterized in that there are provided at least two connecting means (11, 11') which extend in their projection onto a plane of the supporting means (9) at an angle to one another, which angle is preferably substantially 90°, and that the motor means (13) are configured to act on at least two connecting means, preferably by providing a corresponding plurality of motor units (14).
6. The tracking device (2) according to claim 5, characterized in that the at least two connecting means (11, 11') being arranged on the supporting means (9) such that they intersect in their projection onto the plane of the supporting means (9).
7. The tracking device (2, 2', 2") according to at least one of claims 1 to 6, characterized in that the motor means (13) are configured to move the one connecting means or the more connecting means (11, 11') past a location of the motor means (13) or of the respective motor unit (14), wherein the motor means (13) further are configured to immobilize the one or more connecting means (11, 11') against a tilting moment exerted by the supporting means (9) and/or the hinge means (10, 10').
8. The tracking device (2, 2', 2") according to at least one of claims 1 to 7, characterized in that the erecting means (8, 8') each have a guide (12, 12') for the one or more connecting means (11, 11'), preferably in the form of an opening or an aperture in the erecting means, most preferably having a terminal cross-sectional extension (12b).
9. The tracking device (2, 2', 2") according to claim 8, characterized in that the one or more connecting means (11, 11') is/are passed through the respective guide (12, 12') and is/are connected to the supporting means (9) at a respective second attachment point (P2, P2').
10. The tracking device (2") according to at least one of claims 1 to 9, characterized in that the hinge means (10, 10') have a plurality of connecting elements, preferably in a linear or circular arrangement, wherein preferably at least a same plurality of connecting means (11, 11') are provided, which plurality of connecting means most preferably are arranged parallel to one another, for example according to the embodiment in Figure 8.
11. The tracking device (2) according to at least one of claims 1 to 10, characterized in that a pretension means (17) is provided operatively linked to the at least one elastic hinge element (10), the pretension means (17) being configured to specifically set a spring action of the at least one elastic hinge element.
12. The tracking device (2) according to at least one of claims 1 to 11, characterized in that at least the at least one elastic hinge element (10) interacts with at least one protective element (18), preferably a protective element (18) surrounding the at least one elastic hinge element (10), most preferably a bellows, which protective element (18) is configured and arranged to prevent a rotation of the supporting means (9) about a longitudinal axis of the hinge means, preferably of the at least one elastic hinge element (10).
13. The tracking device (2, 2', 2") according to at least one of claims 1 to 12, characterized in that the supporting means (9) are configured as a back support structure for the active element (3), preferably as a support plate or as a support frame.
14. The tracking device (2, 2', 2") according to at least one of claims 1 to 13, characterized in that the motor means (13) are electrically operable, preferably independently of a mains connection.
15. The tracking device (2, 2', 2") according to at least one of claims 1 to 14, characterized by a control unit (16) for the motor means (13), preferably a programmatically set control unit which is most preferably configured to orient the supporting means (9) according to the calendar and/or by means of further sensors, in particular light sensors, acceleration sensors or gyroscopes determined according to the sun.
16. A solar energy recovery device (1, 1') having a tracking device (2, 2', 2") according to one of claims 1 to 15 and having at least one photovoltaic or solar thermal active element (3), which active element is connected to the remaining tracking device by means of the supporting means (9).
17. The energy recovery device(1, 1') according to claim 16, characterized in that an energy store (5) is provided operatively linked to the active element (3), preferably an accumulator or thermal energy store, in order to provide energy, which is preferably produced by the energy recovery device, for operating the tracking device (2, 2', 2").
18. The energy recovery device (1, 1') according to claim 16 or 17, characterized in that a grid feed (6) is provided, optionally with an inverter or the like, for feeding the recovered energy into an energy supply grid, preferably a power grid.
19. The energy recovery device (1, 1') according to at least one of claims 16 to 18, characterized in that a preferably wireless communication link is provided for controllably acting on the motor means (13) and/or the control unit (16) and/or for querying function parameters of the active element (3).
Applications Claiming Priority (1)
| Application Number | Priority Date | Filing Date | Title |
|---|---|---|---|
| PCT/EP2014/067509 WO2016023595A1 (en) | 2014-08-15 | 2014-08-15 | Sun tracking device for solar modules with elastic or resilient pseudo-hinges |
Publications (1)
| Publication Number | Publication Date |
|---|---|
| CA2958260A1 true CA2958260A1 (en) | 2016-02-18 |
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Family Applications (1)
| Application Number | Title | Priority Date | Filing Date |
|---|---|---|---|
| CA2958260A Abandoned CA2958260A1 (en) | 2014-08-15 | 2014-08-15 | Sun tracking device for solar modules with elastic or resilient pseudo-hinges |
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| EP (1) | EP2999930B1 (en) |
| CA (1) | CA2958260A1 (en) |
| ES (1) | ES2650288T3 (en) |
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| WO2019173685A1 (en) * | 2018-03-08 | 2019-09-12 | Texas State University | Robot and coupling joint suitable for use with daylighting systems or solar tracking system |
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| WO2021019115A1 (en) * | 2019-07-31 | 2021-02-04 | Brown Advance, S.A. | Safety brake device for photovoltaic installations |
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-
2014
- 2014-08-15 CA CA2958260A patent/CA2958260A1/en not_active Abandoned
- 2014-08-15 ES ES14752327.8T patent/ES2650288T3/en active Active
- 2014-08-15 EP EP14752327.8A patent/EP2999930B1/en not_active Not-in-force
- 2014-08-15 WO PCT/EP2014/067509 patent/WO2016023595A1/en active Application Filing
Cited By (2)
| Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| WO2019173685A1 (en) * | 2018-03-08 | 2019-09-12 | Texas State University | Robot and coupling joint suitable for use with daylighting systems or solar tracking system |
| US11904459B2 (en) | 2018-03-08 | 2024-02-20 | Texas State University | Robot and coupling joint suitable for use with daylighting systems or solar tracking system |
Also Published As
| Publication number | Publication date |
|---|---|
| EP2999930B1 (en) | 2017-09-27 |
| ES2650288T3 (en) | 2018-01-17 |
| WO2016023595A1 (en) | 2016-02-18 |
| EP2999930A1 (en) | 2016-03-30 |
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Legal Events
| Date | Code | Title | Description |
|---|---|---|---|
| EEER | Examination request |
Effective date: 20190716 |
|
| FZDE | Discontinued |
Effective date: 20210831 |
|
| FZDE | Discontinued |
Effective date: 20210831 |