Solar array support methods and systems

Abstract

Systems and methods for disposing and supporting a solar panel array are disclosed. The embodiments comprise various combinations of cables, support columns, and pod constructions in which to support solar panels. The solar panels can incorporate single or dual tracking capabilities to enhance sunlight capture. The embodiments encourage dual land use in which installation of the systems minimizes disruption of the underlying ground. Supplemental power may be provided by vertical axis windmills integrated with the columns. Special installations of the system can include systems mounted over structures such as parking lots, roads and aqueducts. Simplified support systems with a minimum number of structural elements can be used to create effective support for solar panel arrays of varying size and shapes. These simplified systems minimize material requirements and labor for installation of the systems.

Description

CROSS REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS[0001]This application is a continuation-in-part of U.S. application Ser. No. 12 / 580,170 entitled: “Solar Array Support Methods and Systems”, filed on Oct. 15, 2009, which is a continuation-in-part application of U.S. application Ser. No. 12 / 466,331, filed on May 14, 2009 entitled “Solar Array Support Methods and Systems, which is a continuation-in-part application of U.S. application Ser. No. 12 / 255,178, filed on Oct. 21, 2008 entitled “Solar Array Support Methods and Systems”, which is a continuation-in-part application of U.S. application Ser. No. 12 / 143,624, filed on Jun. 20, 2008 entitled, “Solar Array Support Methods and Systems”, which is a continuation-in-part application of U.S. application Ser. No. 12 / 122,228, filed on May 16, 2008, entitled “Solar Array Support Methods and Systems”, which is a continuation-in-part of U.S. application Ser. No. 11 / 856,521, filed on Sep. 17, 2007, entitled “Solar Array Support Methods and Systems”, whic...

AI Technical Summary

Benefits of technology

[0023]As set forth in the first embodiment, one particular advantage of the present invention is the ability to provide a solar array support system and method in which a minimum amount of materials are required. Consequently, reduced labor is required for installation. The support system and method provide a solution for supporting solar arrays in a very cost-effective, yet structurally sound and reliable manner.

[0024]One particularly advantageous arrangement of support elements in accordance with the present invention is a ground mounted system in which an array of photovoltaic panels are supported by (i) four columns, one column located at each corner of the array, (ii) first and second main cables that suspend the solar panels at an inclined angle, and (iii) a pair of longitudinal anchor lines located at opposite ends of the array. This minimum arrangement of structural elements provides an extremely efficient, yet structurally sufficient support for a solar panel array. Accordingly, the system also minimizes construction efforts as well as maintenance needs of the system.

[0025]In this simplified support system, the columns are anchored in the ground so that the columns act as vertical cantilever supports that can withstand bending moments in all directions. Preferably, there are a pair of short columns and a pair of tall columns that provide the desired angularity with respect to how the solar panels are disposed for capture of sunlight. This angularity also serves to allow drainage of liquid from the solar panels without a separate drain system. The pairs of longitudinal anchor lines provide additional structural stability, yet minimize the number of anchor lines used.

[0026]From this simplified arrangement of structural support elements, additional structural support can be provided by adding additional anchor lines, cables, and columns as set forth in the other embodiments of the present invention.

[0027]With respect to minimizing structural requirements for the solar panel receivers or pods that secure the solar panels, as also set forth in the first embodiment, the method and system of the invention contemplate utilization of the minimum number of struts to support the solar panels. One simplified arrangement for the struts includes a pair of main transverse struts that extend substantially perpendicular to and mounted to the first and second main cables. A pair of longitudinal struts may interconnect the transverse struts. Cable receivers are used to mount the cables to the main struts. Connecting brackets are used to secure the solar panels to the main struts. In this simplified pod construction, adequate structural support is provided to minimize torsional and bending forces, which could otherwise damage the solar panels; yet the number of structural elements is minimized to reduce construction costs and labor costs.

[0028]Further advantages and features of the systems and methods of the present invention will become apparent from a review of the following figures, along with the detailed description.

Problems solved by technology

Present systems for supporting solar panels tend to be bulky and expensive.

Given the size and weight of such systems, implementation of solar panel arrays in remote locations is difficult and expensive.

When large equipment is required, installation of a solar panel array in an environmentally sensitive area without significantly impacting the surrounding habitat becomes very difficult.

Typically, such support systems do not allow for secondary uses of the solar panel arrays.

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