U.S. patent application number 16/030758 was filed with the patent office on 2018-11-08 for pole-mounted power generation systems, structures and processes.
The applicant listed for this patent is Accurate Solar Power, LLC. Invention is credited to Ronald M. Newdoll, Argil E. Shaver.
Application Number | 20180323617 16/030758 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 47883763 |
Filed Date | 2018-11-08 |
United States Patent
Application |
20180323617 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
Newdoll; Ronald M. ; et
al. |
November 8, 2018 |
POLE-MOUNTED POWER GENERATION SYSTEMS, STRUCTURES AND PROCESSES
Abstract
Solar power systems and structures are mountable to a power
distribution structure, e.g. a power pole or tower, which supports
alternating current (AC) power transmission lines. An exemplary
power generation structure is fixedly attached to and extends from
the power distribution structure, and comprises a mounting rack. A
solar array, comprising at least one solar panel, is affixed to the
mounting rack. A DC to AC inverter is connected between the DC
outputs of the solar array and the AC power transmission lines. The
length of the solar array is generally in alignment with the power
distribution structure, and the width of the solar array is greater
than half the circumference of the power distribution structure.
The mounting rack and solar array may preferably be rotatable, such
as based on any of location, time of day, or available light.
Inventors: |
Newdoll; Ronald M.;
(Woodside, CA) ; Shaver; Argil E.; (Menlo Park,
CA) |
|
Applicant: |
Name |
City |
State |
Country |
Type |
Accurate Solar Power, LLC |
Menlo Park |
CA |
US |
|
|
Family ID: |
47883763 |
Appl. No.: |
16/030758 |
Filed: |
July 9, 2018 |
Related U.S. Patent Documents
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Application
Number |
Filing Date |
Patent Number |
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15275272 |
Sep 23, 2016 |
10020657 |
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16030758 |
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14949611 |
Nov 23, 2015 |
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15275272 |
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13615014 |
Sep 13, 2012 |
9196770 |
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14949611 |
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PCT/US2010/045352 |
Aug 12, 2010 |
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13615014 |
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12842864 |
Jul 23, 2010 |
8035249 |
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PCT/US2010/045352 |
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12056235 |
Mar 26, 2008 |
7772716 |
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12842864 |
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12842864 |
Jul 23, 2010 |
8035249 |
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PCT/US2010/045352 |
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12056235 |
Mar 26, 2008 |
7772716 |
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12842864 |
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13250887 |
Sep 30, 2011 |
8427009 |
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13615014 |
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12842864 |
Jul 23, 2010 |
8035249 |
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13250887 |
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12056235 |
Mar 26, 2008 |
7772716 |
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12842864 |
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61534802 |
Sep 14, 2011 |
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61234181 |
Aug 14, 2009 |
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60908361 |
Mar 27, 2007 |
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60908361 |
Mar 27, 2007 |
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Current U.S.
Class: |
1/1 |
Current CPC
Class: |
H02S 20/32 20141201;
H02J 3/385 20130101; Y02E 10/76 20130101; H01L 31/02021 20130101;
H02J 13/00028 20200101; Y04S 10/30 20130101; H02J 13/0079 20130101;
Y02E 40/70 20130101; Y02B 90/20 20130101; H02J 2300/26 20200101;
Y04S 10/123 20130101; Y04S 40/124 20130101; H02J 3/46 20130101;
H02J 13/00002 20200101; H02J 13/00016 20200101; Y02E 10/56
20130101; H02J 3/381 20130101; H02J 3/383 20130101; H02S 40/32
20141201; H02S 50/10 20141201; Y10T 307/406 20150401; Y02E 60/00
20130101; H02J 3/386 20130101; H02J 13/0062 20130101; H02M 7/44
20130101 |
International
Class: |
H02J 3/38 20060101
H02J003/38; H02J 13/00 20060101 H02J013/00; H02S 40/32 20140101
H02S040/32; H02S 50/10 20140101 H02S050/10; H01L 31/02 20060101
H01L031/02; H01L 31/042 20140101 H01L031/042; H02J 3/46 20060101
H02J003/46; H02M 7/44 20060101 H02M007/44; H02S 20/32 20140101
H02S020/32 |
Claims
1. A power generation system, comprising: a central controller or
server; and one or more power generation structures, wherein each
of the power generation structures includes: a mounting structure
attached to a power distribution structure, wherein the power
distribution structure is configured to support alternating current
(AC) power transmission lines that are connected to a power grid; a
solar array comprising at least one solar panel that is affixed to
the mounting structure, and DC outputs extending from the solar
array; an DC to AC inverter connected between the DC outputs of the
solar array and the AC power transmission lines; and a
communication link to the central controller or server.
2. The power generation system of claim 1, wherein the power
distribution structure for one or more of power generation
structures has a defined axis and a defined circumference, and
wherein the mounting structure includes a mounting rack that is
configured to extend from the power distribution structure.
3. The power generation system of claim 1, wherein the
communication link is any of a wired link or a wireless link.
4. The power generation system of claim 1, wherein the mounting
structures are attached on top of the AC power transmission
lines.
5. The power generation system of claim 1, wherein the central
controller or server is configured to provide off-site control of
the power distribution structures.
6. The power generation system of claim 1, wherein the off-site
control includes any of start-up, daily shutdown, fail
safe/emergency shutdown, and/or maintenance modes of operation for
one or more of the power distribution structures.
7. The power generation system of claim 1, wherein the power
generation structures are configured to send monitoring information
to the central controller or server over the communication
link.
8. The power generation system of claim 1, wherein the mounting
structure is configured to controllably move the solar array based
on any of location, time of day, date, shading, or maximum
illumination direction.
9. A method, comprising: attaching a power generation structure to
a power distribution structure that supports alternating current
(AC) power transmission lines that are connected to a power grid,
wherein the power generation structure includes: a mounting
structure, a solar array comprising at least one solar panel that
is affixed to the mounting structure, and DC outputs extending from
the solar array, a DC to AC inverter connected between the DC
outputs of the solar array and the AC power transmission lines, and
a communication link to a central controller or server; wherein the
attaching the power generation structure to the power distribution
structure comprises attaching the mounting structure to the power
distribution structure, such that the mounting structure extends
from the power distribution structure; and providing off-site
control of the power generation structure with the central
controller or server over the communication link.
10. The method of claim 9, collecting solar energy through the
solar array; inverting the DC power from the solar array to AC
power through the DC to AC inverter; and transferring the AC power
to the AC power transmission lines.
11. The method of claim 9, wherein the power distribution structure
has a defined axis and a defined circumference, and wherein the
mounting structure includes a mounting rack that is configured to
extend from the power distribution structure.
12. The method of claim 9, wherein the off-site control includes
any of start-up, daily shutdown, fail safe/emergency shutdown,
and/or maintenance modes of operation for the power distribution
structure.
13. The method of claim 9, further comprising: sending monitoring
information to the central controller or server over the
communication link.
14. The method of claim 9, further comprising: receiving a control
signal from the central controller or server over the communication
link.
15. The method of claim 9, further comprising: controllably moving
the solar array based on any of location, time of day, date,
shading, or maximum illumination direction.
16. A power generation structure, comprising: a mounting structure
that is configured for attachment to a power distribution
structure, wherein the power distribution structure is configured
to support alternating current (AC) power transmission lines that
are connected to a power grid; a solar array comprising at least
one solar panel that is affixed to the mounting rack, and DC
outputs extending from the solar array; an DC to AC inverter
connected between the DC outputs of the solar array and the AC
power transmission lines; and a communication link to a central
controller or server.
17. The power generation structure of claim 16, wherein the
communication link is any of a wired link and a wireless link.
18. The power generation structure of claim 16, wherein the power
distribution structure has a defined axis and a defined
circumference, and wherein the mounting structure includes a
mounting rack that is configured to extend from the power
distribution structure.
19. The power generation structure of claim 16, wherein the central
controller or server is configured to provide off-site control of
the power distribution structure.
20. The power generation structure of claim 16, wherein the
off-site control includes any of start-up, daily shutdown, fail
safe/emergency shutdown, and/or maintenance modes of operation for
the power distribution structure.
21. The power generation structure of claim 16, wherein the power
generation structure is configured to send monitoring information
to the central controller or server over the communication
link.
22. The power generation structure of claim 16, wherein the power
distribution structure comprises any of a power distribution pole
or a power distributio
Description
CROSS REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS
[0001] This application is a Continuation of U.S. application Ser.
No. 15/275,272, filed 23 Sep. 2016, which is a Continuation of U.S.
application Ser. No. 14/949,611, filed 23 Nov. 2015, which is
abandoned, which is a Continuation of U.S. application Ser. No.
13/615,014, filed 13 Sep. 2012, which was issued as U.S. Pat. No.
9,196,770 on 24 Nov. 2015, which claims Priority to U.S.
Provisional Application No. 61/534,802, entitled Pole-Mounted
Systems, Structures and Processes with Distributed Maximum Power
Point Tracking and Tracking Mechanisms, filed 14 Sep. 2011, which
is incorporated herein in its entirety by this reference
thereto.
[0002] U.S. application Ser. No. 13/615,014 is also a Continuation
in Part and claims priority for commonly disclosed matter to PCT
Application No. PCT/US2010/045352, entitled Enhanced Solar Panels,
Liquid Delivery Systems and Associated Processes for Solar Energy
Systems, filed 12 Aug. 2010, which claims priority to U.S.
Provisional Application No. 61/234,181, entitled Distributed
Maximum Power Point Tracking System, Structure, and Process with
Enhanced Solar Panel Coating, Cleaning and Cooling, filed 14 Aug.
2009, which are each incorporated herein in their entirety by this
reference thereto.
[0003] PCT Application No. PCT/US2010/045352 is also a Continuation
in Part and claims priority for commonly disclosed matter to U.S.
application Ser. No. 12,842,864, entitled Distributed Maximum Power
Point Tracking System, Structure and Process, filed 23 Jul. 2010,
which was issued as U.S. Pat. No. 8,035,249 on 11 Oct. 2011, which
is a Continuation of U.S. application Ser. No. 12/056,235, entitled
Distributed Maximum Power Point Tracking System, Structure and
Process, filed 26 Mar. 2008, which was issued as U.S. Pat. No.
7,772,716 on 10 Aug. 2010, which claims priority to U.S.
Provisional Application No. 60/908,361, entitled Distributed
Multiple Power Point Tracking, filed 27 Mar. 2007.
[0004] U.S. application Ser. No. 13/615,014 is also a Continuation
in Part and claims priority for commonly disclosed matter to U.S.
application Ser. No. 13/250,887, entitled Distributed Maximum Power
Point Tracking System, Structure and Process, filed 30 Sep. 2011,
which is a Continuation of U.S. application Ser. No. 12/842,864,
entitled Distributed Maximum Power Point Tracking System, Structure
and Process, filed 23 Jul. 2010, which was issued as U.S. Pat. No.
8,035,249 on 11 Oct. 2011, which is a Continuation of U.S.
application Ser. No. 12/056,235, entitled Distributed Maximum Power
Point Tracking System, Structure and Process, filed 26 Mar. 2008,
which was issued as U.S. Pat. No. 7,772,716 on 10 Aug. 2010, which
claims priority to U.S. Provisional Application No. 60/908,361,
entitled Distributed Multiple Power Point Tracking, filed 27 Mar.
2007, which are each incorporated herein in their entirety by this
reference thereto.
[0005] U.S. application Ser. No. 13/615,014 is also related to PCT
Application No. PCT/US08/58473, entitled Distributed Maximum Power
Point Tracking System, Structure and Process, filed 27 Mar. 2008,
which claims priority to U.S. application Ser. No. 12/056,235,
entitled Distributed Maximum Power Point Tracking System, Structure
and Process, filed 26 Mar. 2008, which was issued as U.S. Pat. No.
7,772,716 on 10 Aug. 2010, which claims priority to U.S.
Provisional Application No. 60/908,361, entitled Distributed
Multiple Power Point Tracking, filed 27 Mar. 2007.
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
[0006] All public utilities in the United States have been tasked
by the Federal Government to generate 25 percent of their
electricity from renewable sources by 2020. Some states have
mandated even higher percentages of renewable energy. For example,
in 2011, California passed a law to raise the amount of renewable
energy that all California utilities must use to 33 percent by
2020. While some states, such as California, already produce
renewable energy through large hydropower installations, the need
to increase electricity production through solar power is
increasing rapidly.
[0007] Some current distributed solar panel installations, such as
currently offered through Petra Solar, Inc., of South Plainfield
N.J., comprise stationary brackets that are mountable to utility
distribution poles, which support traditional, silicon-based,
non-flexible solar panels that are locally connected to the power
grid. In a typical installation, a 32 inch wide by 62 inch long
silicon-based rigid solar panel is fixedly mounted at a +/-30
degree angle onto the a utility distribution pole.
[0008] Silicon panels are typically expensive, require direct
light, and tolerate only a slight offset to the sun to provide
power. As well, such silicon panels don't react to reflected light
sources well. Furthermore, rigid silicon-based panels are fragile,
and are susceptible to damage, such as by but not limited to rocks,
bullets, or birds. As well, particularly when fixedly mounted at an
inclined angle to a utility distribution pole, silicon-based panels
are not self-cleaning, and are difficult to manually clean by
hand.
[0009] It would be advantageous to provide a pole mounted solar
power structure, process and system that provides enhanced power
harvest, monitoring, and control for a wide variety of
installations. The development of such a system would provide a
significant advance to the efficiency and cost effectiveness of
distributed power cells structures, processes, and systems.
[0010] One current alternative to traditional, silicon-based,
non-flexible solar panels that are fixedly mounted to power
distribution poles is offered through NextStep Electric, Inc., of
Longmont, Colo. Flexible thin-film panels, having an adhesive
backing, are wrapped directly to a power pole, and are connected to
the local power grid through a micro-inverter 712. When the
mounting surface of the pole surface is clean, uncluttered, and
consistent, the adhesive mounting of flexible thin-film panels may
provide a fast, simple, and inexpensive installation. As the
flexible panels are mounted vertically to the ground, they can be
considered to be at least partially self-cleaning, since less dirt
accumulates on the vertical panel surfaces, and at least a portion
of any accumulated dirt is cleaned through any of wind, rain, dew,
or fog.
[0011] Thin-film panels are typically less fragile than silicon
panels. In most cases, a thrown rock will bounce off the panel
without harm. While a gunshot may penetrate the panel and cause a
small loss of efficiency, it will not normally disable the panel as
with silicon. Furthermore, thin-film technology is more tolerant at
producing electricity from indirect and reflected light than are
traditional, silicon-based solar panels.
[0012] While installations that comprise flexible thin-film panels
that are attached directly to power poles may provide easier
installation, improved cleaning, and tolerance to incident light
direction to that of traditional, silicon-based, non-flexible solar
panels, such installations are inherently limited to the available
circumferential surface area of the utility pole.
[0013] It would be advantageous to provide a pole mounted solar
power structure, process and system that provides a greater surface
area than that of flexible thin-film panels that are attached
directly to power poles, which also provides any of enhanced
cleaning, robustness, monitoring, and control for a wide variety of
installations. The development of such a system would provide a
further significant advance.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
[0014] Solar power systems and structures are mountable to a power
distribution structure, e.g. a power pole or tower, which supports
alternating current (AC) power transmission lines. An exemplary
power generation structure is fixedly attached to and extends from
the power distribution structure, and comprises a mounting rack. A
solar array comprising at least one solar panel is affixed to the
mounting rack. A DC to AC inverter is connected between the DC
outputs of the solar array and the AC power transmission lines. The
length of the solar array is generally in alignment with the power
distribution structure, and the width of the solar array is greater
than half the circumference of the power distribution structure.
The mounting rack and solar array may preferably be rotatable, such
as based on any of location, time of day, or available light.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0015] FIG. 1 is a partial cutaway view of an enhanced solar panel
structure having an outer coating layer;
[0016] FIG. 2 is a simplified schematic view of an array of
enhanced solar panels having a rack mounting angle;
[0017] FIG. 3 is a top schematic view of an exemplary curved panel
mount;
[0018] FIG. 4 is a front schematic view of an exemplary curved
panel mount;
[0019] FIG. 5 is a side schematic view of an exemplary curved panel
mount;
[0020] FIG. 6 is a perspective view of an exemplary curved panel
mount;
[0021] FIG. 7 is a top schematic view of an exemplary curved
channel stay;
[0022] FIG. 8 is a front schematic view of an exemplary curved
channel stay;
[0023] FIG. 9 is a side schematic view of an exemplary curved
channel stay;
[0024] FIG. 10 is a perspective view of an exemplary curved channel
stay;
[0025] FIG. 11 is top schematic view of an exemplary flat panel
mounting bracket;
[0026] FIG. 12 is a front schematic view of an exemplary flat panel
mounting bracket;
[0027] FIG. 13 is a side schematic view of an exemplary flat panel
mounting bracket;
[0028] FIG. 14 is a perspective view of an exemplary flat panel
mounting bracket;
[0029] FIG. 15 is top schematic view of an exemplary horizontal
channel stay;
[0030] FIG. 16 is a front schematic view of an exemplary horizontal
channel stay;
[0031] FIG. 17 is a side schematic view of an exemplary horizontal
channel stay;
[0032] FIG. 18 is a perspective view of an exemplary horizontal
channel stay;
[0033] FIG. 19 is a detailed top schematic view of an alternate
embodiment of a curved panel mount;
[0034] FIG. 20 is a detailed top schematic view of an alternate
embodiment of a flat panel mount;
[0035] FIG. 21 is a partial cutaway view of an exemplary vertical
channel stay;
[0036] FIG. 22 is a partial schematic view of an exemplary
pole-mounted stationary arched solar power structure;
[0037] FIG. 23 is a partial front view of an exemplary pole-mounted
stationary arched solar power structure;
[0038] FIG. 24 is a partial schematic view of an exemplary
pole-mounted rotatable arched solar power structure;
[0039] FIG. 25 is a partial front view of an exemplary pole-mounted
rotatable arched solar power structure;
[0040] FIG. 26 is a partial schematic view of an exemplary
pole-mounted rotatable arched solar power structure located in the
Northern Hemisphere at a first time, wherein the solar array is
rotatably positioned in a generally Eastward direction;
[0041] FIG. 27 is a partial schematic view of an exemplary
pole-mounted rotatable arched solar power structure located in the
Northern Hemisphere at a second time, wherein the solar array is
rotatably positioned in a generally Southward direction;
[0042] FIG. 28 is a partial schematic view of an exemplary
pole-mounted rotatable arched solar power structure located in the
Northern Hemisphere at a third time, wherein the solar array is
rotatably positioned in a generally Westward direction;
[0043] FIG. 29 is a partial schematic view of an exemplary
pole-mounted stationary flat solar power structure;
[0044] FIG. 30 is a partial front view of an exemplary pole-mounted
stationary flat solar power structure;
[0045] FIG. 31 is a partial schematic view of an exemplary
pole-mounted rotatable flat solar power structure;
[0046] FIG. 32 is a partial schematic view of an exemplary
pole-mounted rotatable flat solar power structure located in the
Northern Hemisphere at a first time, wherein the solar array is
rotatably positioned in a generally Eastward direction;
[0047] FIG. 33 is a partial schematic view of an exemplary
pole-mounted rotatable flat solar power structure located in the
Northern Hemisphere at a second time, wherein the solar array is
rotatably positioned in a generally Southward direction;
[0048] FIG. 34 is a partial schematic view of an exemplary
pole-mounted rotatable flat solar power structure located in the
Northern Hemisphere at a third time, wherein the solar array is
rotatably positioned in a generally Westward direction;
[0049] FIG. 35 is a partial schematic view of a transmission line
mounted solar power structure;
[0050] FIG. 36 is a partial schematic view of an exemplary
pole-mounted arched solar concentrating power structure;
[0051] FIG. 37 is a partial schematic view of an exemplary
pole-mounted flat solar concentrating power structure;
[0052] FIG. 38 is a partial schematic view of an exemplary
pole-mounted arched solar power structure that is integrated with a
wind turbine;
[0053] FIG. 39 is a partial schematic view of an exemplary
pole-mounted flat solar power structure that is integrated with a
wind turbine;
[0054] FIG. 40 is a flowchart of an exemplary operation of a pole
mounted rotatable power module;
[0055] FIG. 41 is a partial schematic view of an exemplary
pole-mounted solar power structure having an extended pivot
structure;
[0056] FIG. 42 is a partial bird's eye schematic view of an
exemplary pole-mounted rotatable flat solar power structure located
in the Northern Hemisphere at a first time, wherein the solar array
is rotatably positioned in a generally Eastward direction;
[0057] FIG. 43 is a partial bird's eye schematic view of an
exemplary pole-mounted rotatable flat solar power structure located
in the Northern Hemisphere at a second time, wherein the solar
array is rotatably positioned in a generally Southward
direction;
[0058] FIG. 44 is a partial bird's eye schematic view of an
exemplary pole-mounted rotatable flat solar power structure located
in the Northern Hemisphere at a third time, wherein the solar array
is rotatably positioned in a generally Westward direction;
[0059] FIG. 45 is a side schematic view of an exemplary
pole-mounted rotatable flat solar power structure located in the
Northern Hemisphere at a first time, wherein the solar array is
rotatably positioned in a generally Eastward direction;
[0060] FIG. 46 is a side schematic view of an exemplary
pole-mounted rotatable flat solar power structure located in the
Northern Hemisphere at a second time, wherein the solar array is
rotatably positioned in a generally Southward direction; and
[0061] FIG. 47 is a side schematic view of an exemplary
pole-mounted rotatable flat solar power structure located in the
Northern Hemisphere at a third time, wherein the solar array is
rotatably positioned in a generally Westward direction.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS
[0062] Enhanced Coated Power Panels. The efficiency of solar panels
10 falls off rapidly as dirt and other impurities settles on the
outer surface 435 of the panels 10. The outer glass substrates 434
(FIG. 1) on the surface of solar panels 10, e.g. conventional solar
panels 10, typically contain microscopic voids, fissures, and/or
scratches 436, making them rough, wherein dust, dirt, scale,
particulates, and other contaminants can readily adhere to the
glass 434.
[0063] FIG. 1 is a partial cutaway view of an enhanced solar panel
structure 430 having a top coating layer 438. It is advantageous to
provide such improvements to the outer optical structures 432,434
for solar panels 10, such as to provide enhanced cleaning, and/or
to provide improved light adsorption. Coatings 438 can be applied
to any of: [0064] used, i.e. existing, solar panels 10 (such as
with pre-cleaning); [0065] new but conventional solar panels 10,
e.g. in the field (such as with pre-treatment/cleaning); and/or
[0066] new enhanced solar panels 10, with enhanced coatings 438
applied during production (before shipment).
[0067] In some embodiments, the coating materials 438 are described
as nano-technology materials, as they provide enhanced cleaning
and/or improved light adsorption on any of a macroscopic or
microscopic level. For example, the coatings 438 may preferably
fill in or reduce voids fissures, and/or scratches 436. As well,
the coatings 438 may preferably prevent or reduce buildup of dust,
dirt, scale, particulates, and/or other contaminants on the solar
panel glass 434.
[0068] In some embodiments, the enhanced coatings may preferably
comprise hydrophobic coatings 438, e.g. comprising silicon oxide,
and/or hydrophilic coatings 438, e.g. comprising titanium
oxide.
[0069] For example a thin layer, e.g. such as but not limited to
about 5,000 Angstroms thick, of a hydrophobic coating 438, provides
a surface to which dust and dirt has difficulty adhering. One such
hydrophobic coating 438 currently used comprises a Teflon.TM. based
coating 438, wherein incoming water, such as sprayed on, poured on,
or occurring through other means, e.g. rain, condensation, or fog,
beads up on the glass 434, such as by reducing the surface contact
between the liquid and the glass 434, and allowing the water to
roll off, thereby accelerating the cleaning process.
[0070] The use of hydrophilic coatings 438, coupled with sunlight
and moisture, may preferably react with deposits that land on the
glass 434, such as to break down organic material to a point where
it blows away in the wind, or washes off with water.
[0071] In some exemplary embodiments, the enhanced coatings may
preferably comprise hydrophobic coatings 438, e.g. comprising
silicon oxide, or hydrophilic coatings 438, e.g. comprising
titanium oxide.
[0072] Other exemplary embodiments of the enhanced coatings 438
comprise both hydrophilic and hydrophobic components, such as to
provide a coating material that provides any of reaction with
and/or repelling incident water and/or contaminants.
[0073] Further exemplary embodiments of the enhanced coatings 438
may preferably comprise a component, e.g. an interference coating
438, that reduces the reflectivity of the glass 434, such as to
allow more light to penetrate the glass and strike the solar cell
structure 432, to produce more electricity.
[0074] Solar panels 10, e.g. such as conventional solar panels may
therefore be enhanced by any of a wide variety of coatings 438,
such as to repel water, absorb light, and/or break down organic
material. Such enhanced coatings 438 may preferably be used for any
of reducing dirt buildup on solar panel glass layers 434, reducing
cleaning time, and/or increasing the level of cleanliness
achievable through cleaning procedures.
[0075] Rack Mounting Angles for Solar Panel Arrays. FIG. 2 is a
simplified schematic view 440 of an array 34 of solar panels 10,
e.g. enhanced solar panels 10a-10n, such as assembled with one or
more frame members 444, having a rack mounting angle o 446.
[0076] Fluid delivery systems 452, such as but not limited to a
manifold and one or more spray mechanisms, may preferably provide
any of cleaning and/or cooling for one or more solar panels 10,
such as by spraying or otherwise distributing water, which may
further comprise a cleaner, over the incident surfaces 450a of an
array 34 of one or more panels 10.
[0077] As seen in FIG. 2, the exemplary panels 10 have a rack
mounting angle 446. Conventional solar panel arrays have commonly
been mounted with a rack angle 446 greater than zero degrees, such
as to provide an increase in power harvest. For example, many solar
panel arrays 34 located in the Northern hemisphere have a rack
mounting angle of about 8-10 degrees.
[0078] A conventional array 34 of solar panels 10 that are
installed flat on a flat roof can theoretically provide 100 percent
coverage across the roof, while a conventional array of solar
panels 10 that are installed with an eight degree slope on such a
roof provides about 90 percent coverage, because of the aisle
typically required between racking systems, such as to avoid
shading between racks.
[0079] Panel arrays 34 that have substantially higher rack angles,
e.g. 20 degrees, have a higher front to back height ratio, which
typically requires a larger distance between the racking structural
rows, thereby resulting in less room for panels 10, such as for a
horizontal roof installation. e.g. about 70 percent coverage for a
flat roof system.
[0080] In an enhanced power generation system 40 that includes a
fluid delivery system 452, such as for cleaning and/or cooling, the
rack angle 446 may preferably be chosen for fluid movement, e.g.
water run off, as well as for power harvest.
[0081] For example, one current embodiment of an enhanced power
generation system 40 that includes a fluid delivery system 452,
installed in Menlo Park, Calif., has a rack mounting angle 446 of
about 8 degrees toward the South, which serves to increase power
harvest and also allows testing of a fluid delivery system 452.
[0082] The specific rack angle 446 for a solar panel installation
may preferably be chosen to facilitate self-cleaning during
rainfall, automated, i.e. robotic, cleaning, and/or automated
cooling, such as to reduce or avoid maintenance and/or cleaning
problems associated with flat mounted panels 10.
[0083] For example, for the specific solar panels 10 used for the
aforementioned installation, and as recommended for many fluid
delivery systems 452, a rack angle 446 of at least 10 degrees
(toward the South in the Northern hemisphere or toward the North in
the Southern hemisphere) may preferably provide greater fluid
movement, e.g. water run off, such as to decrease residual build up
of impurities along the surface and lower edges of the solar panels
10.
[0084] As the rack mounting angle 446 is increased, such as between
15-20 degrees toward the Equator, fluid runoff is increased, which
can promote fluid reclamation and avoid deposition of contaminants
at the lower edges of solar panels 10. The increased rack angle 446
also typically allows for a higher total year round harvest of
electricity for installations that can accommodate such
configurations, since in the winter, the Sun is lower on the
horizon, so the additional tilt 446 of the panels 10 allows more
light to be harvested. Because the higher slope results in better
cleaning, there is a trade off between effective cleaning and the
concentration of panels 10 on the roof.
[0085] Enhanced Pole-Mounted Solar Power Systems, Structures and
Processes. Enhanced solar power structures provide a wide variety
of solutions for solar power production throughout many distributed
environments.
[0086] Numerous regions within the United States and across the
world use power distribution structures 702, such as but not
limited to elevated poles and/or towers 702 (FIG. 22, FIG. 23), to
support power lines 704 (FIG. 22, FIG. 23) and/or phone lines,
wherein the poles and/or towers 702 are typically installed,
operated, and maintained by respective utilities. While some areas,
such as within urban or suburban environments, have installed power
lines 702 and/or communication land lines below ground, a vast
number or poles and towers 702 remain in service.
[0087] Several embodiments of enhanced power structures 700, e.g.
700a (FIG. 22); 700j (FIG. 41), are mountable to such poles and/or
towers 702, to provide localized controlled production of solar
power, which may preferably further comprise local DMPPT modules
18, such as integrated with or in conjunction with a local DC to AC
power inverter 54 that is connectable 714 to the neighboring power
grid 58, and may be configured to send and/or receive signals 722
(FIG. 22) over respective communication links 22.
[0088] The exemplary enhanced power structures 700 disclosed herein
typically provide support for one or more solar panels 10, such as
for but not limited to flat or arched embodiments 700. In
stationary embodiments 700, the panels 10 may preferably be aligned
toward the Equator, wherein the panels 10 may preferably be aligned
toward the South if installed in the Northern Hemisphere, or toward
the North, if installed in the Southern Hemisphere.
[0089] Rotatable configurations of enhanced power structures 700
are also disclosed herein, wherein the solar arrays 34 may be
aligned to increase the power harvest based on any of location,
time of day, available light, or any combination thereof. For
example, some embodiments of the enhanced power structures 700 are
controllably rotatable to face toward East in the morning, toward
the South at midday, and toward the West at sunset.
[0090] Panel Mount Structures. FIG. 3 is a top schematic view of an
exemplary curved frame structure 460a. FIG. 4 is a front schematic
view 480 of an exemplary curved frame structure 460a. FIG. 5 is a
side schematic view 490 of an exemplary curved frame structure
460a. FIG. 6 is a perspective view 500 of an exemplary curved frame
structure 460a. In some embodiments, the curved frame structures
460a are comprised of corrosion resistant metal strips
462,464,466,468, e.g. such as comprising but not limited to
stainless steel.
[0091] The exemplary curved frame structure 460a seen in FIG. 3
comprises an inner pole mount 462, which may be directly
connectable to a pole structure 702, such as for stationary
structures 700, or may be rotatably mounted to a pole structure
702, such as with a concentric bearing assembly 736 (FIG. 24), for
rotatable power generation structures 700. The exemplary curved
frame structure 460a seen in FIG. 3 also comprises a curved face
frame 464 and a rear support frame 466, which are fixably attached
to the inner pole mount 462, such as with extension brackets 468.
The exemplary curved frame structure 460a seen in FIG. 3 to FIG. 6
may preferably be constructed with fasteners, or weldably
fabricated.
[0092] FIG. 7 is a top schematic view of an exemplary curved
channel stay 510. FIG. 8 is a front schematic view 520 of an
exemplary curved channel stay 510, having an inner side 522a that
corresponds to an attached solar array 34, and an outer side 522b
opposite the inner side 522a. The exemplary curved channel stay
seen in FIG. 7 comprises a frame attachment face 514b having a
mounting surface 516, such as for connection to a curved face frame
464 (FIG. 32). The radius 512 of the frame attachment face 514b
corresponds to the outer convex surface of the curved face frame
464. The exemplary curved channel stay seen in FIG. 7 also
comprises a convex array attachment face 514a opposite the concave
frame attachment face 514b, which comprises an attachment boss 518
having a channel 524 for retaining a solar array 34, comprising one
or more solar panel 10.
[0093] FIG. 9 is a side schematic view 530 of an exemplary curved
channel stay 510. FIG. 10 is a perspective view 540 of an exemplary
curved channel stay 510. In some embodiments, screw holes 542 (FIG.
10) are defined in the curved channel stays 510, and may preferably
be countersunk to avoid interference. To mount the main support,
the user USR first slides a solar array 34 into place, using
vertical channel stays 690 (FIG. 21). Once in place, the top and
bottom curved channel stays 510 are bolted, to lock the solar panel
10 in place. A sealant 694 (FIG. 21), e.g. an epoxy sealant, may be
applied to hold the solar panel 10 in the respective channels
524.
[0094] FIG. 11 is top schematic view of an exemplary flat panel
mounting frame 460b. The exemplary frame structure 460b seen in
FIG. 11 comprises an inner pole mount structure 462, which may be
directly connectable to a pole structure 702, such as for
stationary structures 700, or may be rotatably mounted to a pole
structure 702, such as with a concentric bearing assembly 736 (FIG.
24), for rotatable power generation structures 700. The exemplary
frame structure 460b seen in FIG. 11 also comprises a planar face
frame 552, such as having a defined width 554, e.g. 24 inches, and
braces 566 that are fixably attached between the inner pole mount
462 and the planar face frame 552. FIG. 12 is a front schematic
view 580 of an exemplary planar panel mounting frame 460b, having a
first side 582a, and a second side 582b opposite the first side
582a. FIG. 13 is a side schematic view 590 of an exemplary planar
panel mounting frame 460b. FIG. 14 is a perspective view 600 of an
exemplary planar panel mounting frame 460b. In some embodiments,
the planar panel mounting frames 460b are comprised of corrosion
resistant metal strips, e.g. stainless steel, such as for ease of
use and longevity in the field. The exemplary planar frame
structures 460b seen in FIG. 11 to FIG. 14 may preferably be
constructed with fasteners, or may be weldably fabricated.
[0095] FIG. 15 is top schematic view of an exemplary planar channel
stay 620. FIG. 16 is a front schematic view 630 of an exemplary
planar channel stay 620. FIG. 17 is a side schematic view 640 of an
exemplary planar channel stay 620. FIG. 18 is a perspective view
650 of an exemplary planar channel stay 620. In some embodiments,
the planar channel stays 620 are mounted using the same procedure
as the curved channel stay 510, and may preferably be comprised
from stainless steel extrusions, such as to prevent galvanic
reactions. In some embodiments, the planar channel stays 620 have
the same cross-sectional profile as the curved channel stays 510 or
vertical channel stays 690 (FIG. 21).
[0096] FIG. 19 is a detailed top schematic view 660 of an alternate
embodiment of a curved frame structure 460a, such as comprised of
stainless steel bands, wherein the material may preferably be
chosen to have a sufficient yield strength to support the assembly.
Holes through the curved panel mount may preferably be countersunk,
such as to avoid any bolt interference.
[0097] FIG. 20 is a detailed top schematic view 670 of an alternate
embodiment of a planar frame structure 460b, which may be comprised
in a similar manner to the curved frame structure 460a seen in FIG.
19, e.g. such as comprised of stainless steel bands, wherein the
material may preferably be chosen to have a sufficient yield
strength to support the assembly. The use of stainless steel bands
may also provide some adjustability, such as for connection to a
wide variety of power utility poles 702.
[0098] FIG. 21 is a partial cutaway view of an exemplary vertical
channel stay 690. In some embodiments, the length of the vertical
channel stay is 118 inches when used with the curved channel stays
510. In other embodiments, the length of the vertical channel stay
690 is 79 inches when used with the planar channel stays 620. The
holes 692 defined in the vertical channel stay 690 may preferably
be counter bored, such as to allow for four mounting points for
attachment to curved frame structures 460a or planar frame
structures 460b.
[0099] Pole-mounted Stationary Arched Solar Power Structures. FIG.
22 is a partial schematic view of an exemplary pole-mounted
stationary arched solar power structure 700a having local DC to AC
inverter 712, e.g. a micro-inverter 712. FIG. 23 is a partial front
view 726 of an exemplary pole-mounted stationary arched solar power
structure 700a. In some exemplary embodiments of pole-mounted
stationary arched solar power structures 700, e.g. 700a, the solar
array 34 comprises at least one solar panel 10, e.g. a flexible 300
watt panel 10, e.g. 36 inches wide by 10 feet long, that is mounted
to a curved, e.g. hemispherical, mounting rack 706a, having a
radius of 12 inches and a length of 10 feet, which is
fixedly-mountable to a utility distribution pole 702, i.e. a power
pole 702, having a defined characteristic pole axis 728, and an
exemplary diameter 708 of 10 inches.
[0100] In a current exemplary embodiment of the pole-mounted
stationary arched solar power structure 700a, the solar array 34
comprises a flexible thin-film panel 10, Part No. SFX-i200,
available through Solopower, Inc. of San Jose, Calif., wherein the
200 watt thin-film panel has a width of 0.88 meters, a length of
2.98 meters.
[0101] In the Northern hemisphere, the exemplary pole-mounted
stationary arched solar power structure 700a may typically be
mounted facing southward, to maximize local power production. The
exemplary pole-mounted stationary arched solar power structure 700a
seen in FIG. 22 and FIG. 23 extends from and wraps around the power
pole 702, wherein the solar array 34 may define and arc up to
approximately one hundred eighty degrees. The pole-mounted
structure 700a may preferably provide a vertical plane for the
solar panel array 34, wherein the solar panels 10 are
self-cleaning, since less dirt accumulates on the vertical panel
surface 435 (FIG. 1), and at least a portion of any accumulated
dirt is cleaned through any of wind, rain, dew, or fog. Furthermore
the outer surface 435 of the flexible solar panels 10 may further
comprise an outer coating layer 438 (FIG. 1), to further prevent
buildup of dirt and/or promote cleaning.
[0102] The flexible solar array 34, comprising one or more solar
panels 10, is mountably supported to a mounting rack 706, e.g.
706a, which may preferably be comprised of any of polyethylene or
polycarbonate. The mounting rack 706a may preferably be attached
directly or indirectly to one or more pole mount structures 460,
e.g. 460a, which are mountable to a pole structure 702 or to other
stationary object. An access structure 710 may also be provided,
such as on the north side of the pole structure 702, e.g. a utility
distribution pole 702, whereby service personnel can access the
solar panel structure 700, as well as neighboring power lines 704,
phone lines, and/or other items.
[0103] The exemplary pole-mounted stationary arched solar power
structure 700a seen in FIG. 22 and FIG. 23 also comprises a local
DC to AC inverter 712, e.g. a micro-inverter 712, for inversion of
array DC power to AC power, for AC electrical connection 714 to the
local power grid 58.
[0104] The DC to AC inverter 712 may be selected based on a wide
variety of features, such as but not limited to any of input panel
power (nameplate STC), maximum input voltage, peak power tracking
voltage, maximum short circuit current, maximum input current,
maximum output power, nominal output current, nominal and extended
output voltage and range, nominal and extended frequency and range,
power factor, nominal efficiency, nominal power point tracking
accuracy, temperature range, standby power consumption, size,
weight, environmental rating, communications capabilities, and/or
warranty. In some system embodiments 700, e.g. 700a, the DC to AC
inverter 712 may comprise a Model No. M215 micro inverter,
available through Enchase Energy, of Petaluma, Calif.
[0105] A communication link 22, e.g. wired or wireless, is
preferably connectable to the DC to AC inverter 712. While some
embodiments of the communications link 22 are wireless, other
embodiments of the communications link 22 may comprise a wired link
22, such as through any of a phone line, a dedicated line, or as a
piggy-backed communications signal link 22 over one or more
existing lines, e.g. through one or more of the power lines
704.
[0106] Each of the pole-mounted stationary arched solar power
structures 700a typically comprises a mechanism for transmission
and receipt of signals 722, for tracking and/or local control of
voltage and/or current delivered to the power lines 704 through the
DC to AC inverter 712. The DC to AC inverter 712 may also
preferably be configured for any of local or off-site control of
start-up, daily shutdown, fail safe/emergency shutdown, and/or
maintenance modes of operation.
[0107] Some embodiments of the DC to AC inverter 712 and/or DMPPT
18 may further be configured to provide controlled rotation 734 or
other movement of one or more solar panels 10 in pole-mounted
rotatable solar power structures 700, e.g. 700b (FIG. 24), such as
based on location, time of day, date, shading, maximum illumination
direction, and/or service modes. e.g. shutting down a panel and
locking in position to provide for worker access to a utility
distribution pole 702.
[0108] Outgoing signals 722b over the communication link 22 are
typically sent to a controller or server, associated with the
operating entity, e.g. such as but not limited to a local or
regional utility, which may provide control through a regional
location or through a central location, e.g. headquarters. The
signals 722 may be transferred over a network, such as but not
limited to the Internet or a cloud network.
[0109] Pole-mounted Rotatable Arched Solar Power Structures. FIG.
24 is a partial schematic view 730 of an exemplary pole-mounted
rotatable arched solar power structure 700b having a local DC to AC
inverter 712. FIG. 25 is a partial front view 740 of an exemplary
pole-mounted rotatable arched solar power structure 700b. FIG. 26
is a partial schematic view 742 of an exemplary pole-mounted
rotatable arched solar power structure 700b, located in the
Northern Hemisphere at a first time T.sub.1, e.g. early morning,
wherein the solar array 34 is rotatably positioned 743a in a
generally Eastward direction. FIG. 27 is a partial schematic view
744 of the pole-mounted rotatable arched solar power structure 700b
of FIG. 26, at a second time T.sub.2, e.g. about 12:00 PM, wherein
the solar array 34 is rotatably positioned 743n in a generally
Southward direction. FIG. 28 is a partial schematic view 746 of the
pole-mounted rotatable arched solar power structure 700b of FIG. 26
and FIG. 27, at a third time T.sub.3, wherein the solar array 34 is
rotatably positioned 743s in a generally Westward direction.
[0110] While the sequential views of the exemplary pole-mounted
rotatable arched solar power structure 700b shown in FIG. 26 to
FIG. 28 indicate three discreet times during the day, it should be
understood that the panel rotation mechanism 732, may preferably be
operated 734 continuously or sequentially throughout the day, e.g.
such as but not limited to every minute, every ten minutes, or
every hour. At the end of the day, such as during system shutdown,
during the night, or during start up the next morning, the
rotatable solar array 34 is rotated 734 back to its beginning
morning position, e.g. 743a.
[0111] The exemplary pole-mounted rotatable arched solar power
structure 700b seen in FIG. 24 through FIG. 28 may preferably
comprise the same mounting rack 706a as the pole-mounted stationary
arched solar power structure 700a seen in FIG. 22 and
[0112] FIG. 23. However, the rotatable arched solar power structure
700b is rotatably movable 734 about the utility distribution pole
702, such as with respect to concentric bearings 736 (FIG. 24)
mounted between the inner mount structure 462 and the pole 702. In
some embodiments, the solar array 34 is controllably rotatable 734
up to 180 degrees, e.g. up to 90 degrees clockwise or
counterclockwise from a central Southward position about the
utility distribution pole 702, from east in the AM to west in the
PM, under computer control. The solar panel mounting structure 460a
may preferably include one or more tracks or guides 736, e.g.
roller bearing guide assemblies, wherein the rotatable solar array
mounting rack 460a may be rotated 734 about the central pole
702.
[0113] In some exemplary embodiments of the pole-mounted rotatable
arched solar power structure 700b, the solar array 34 comprises a
flexible 300 watt panel, e.g. 36 inches wide by 10 feet long, that
is mounted to a curved, e.g. hemispherical, solar array rack 706a,
having a radius of 12 inches and a length of 10 feet, which is
rotatably mountable to a central support structure, which in turn
is mounted to a utility distribution pole 702, i.e. power pole 702,
having an exemplary diameter of 10 inches.
[0114] The circumference of the exemplary arched solar array 34 in
the above example is about 37.7 inches, as compared to a
circumference of about 15.7 inches around half of the utility
distribution pole 702 having a diameter of 10 inches. In both
planar and curved embodiments of the pole-mounted rotatable arched
solar power structures 700, the width of the solar arrays 34 may
preferably be configured to greater than half the circumference of
the power distribution structures, e.g. poles or towers 702, upon
which they are installed, since the solar arrays 34 are extendably
mounted, i.e. cantilevered out, from the pole structures 702.
[0115] Therefore, pole-mounted stationary and rotatable arched
solar power structures 700a,700b may readily provide a
substantially larger area for solar cells 12, as compared to
systems having stationary thin film panels that are wrapped
directly to a utility distribution poles 702. The size of the
perimeter or diameter of the mounting rack 706a for pole-mounted
stationary and rotatable arched solar power structures 700a,700b
may be chosen based on one or more factors, such as but not limited
to any of available panel sizes, cost, zoning, wind, shading,
and/or the rotational range of the system, e.g. 180 degrees, 150
degrees, 120 degrees, etc.
[0116] In the Northern hemisphere, the exemplary pole-mounted
rotatable arched solar power structure 700b may preferably be
rotatable 734 to face from the East to the West, toward the
Equator, to maximize local power production.
[0117] The exemplary pole-mounted rotatable arched solar power
structure 700b seen in FIG. 24 and FIG. 28 may preferably extend
around the power pole by up to 180 degrees, and is typically
configured to provide a vertical plane for the solar array 34,
comprising one or more solar panels 10, wherein the solar panels 10
are self-cleaning, since less dirt accumulates on the vertical
panel surfaces 435 (FIG. 1), and at least a portion of any
accumulated dirt is cleaned through any of wind, rain, dew, or fog.
Furthermore the surface 435 of such flexible solar panels 10 may
further comprise an outer coating layer 438 (FIG. 1), to further
prevent buildup of dirt and/or promote cleaning.
[0118] The flexible solar panels 10 are mountably supported to a
mounting rack 706a, which may preferably comprise any of
polyethylene or polycarbonate, wherein the mounting rack 706a is
attached directly or indirectly to one or more pole mount
structures 460a, which are rotatably mountable 736 to a pole
structure 702 or other stationary object. An access structure 710,
e.g. a service ladder, may also be provided, such as on the north
side of the pole 702, wherein service personnel can access the
solar panel structure 700b, as well as neighboring power lines 704,
phone lines, and/or other items.
[0119] While the exemplary pole-mounted rotatable arched solar
power structure 700b seen in FIG. 24 through FIG. 28 shows a
flexible solar array 34 that is curved and supported in a fixed
arc, e.g. having a 24 inch diameter, wherein the array 34 and
mounting rack 706a are rotatable 734 as an assembly, an alternate
system embodiment 700b may preferably comprise a flexible array 34
that is controllably moved in relation to one or more tracks having
a defined arc, such as a movable screen, curtain, or a "Lazy Susan"
style track system.
[0120] The exemplary pole-mounted rotatable arched solar power
structure 700b seen in FIG. 24 through FIG. 28 also comprises a
local DC to AC inverter 712, e.g. a micro-inverter 712, for
inversion of array DC power to AC power, and for an AC electrical
connection 714 to the local power grid 58. The DC to AC inverter
712 for pole-mounted rotatable arched solar power structures 700
may preferably be selected based on a wide variety of features,
such as but not limited to any of input panel power (nameplate
STC), maximum input voltage, peak power tracking voltage, maximum
short circuit current, maximum input current, maximum output power,
nominal output current, nominal and extended output voltage and
range, nominal and extended frequency and range, power factor,
nominal efficiency, nominal power point tracking accuracy,
temperature range, standby power consumption, size, weight,
environmental rating, communications capabilities, and/or warranty.
In some system embodiments 700, e.g. 700b, the DC to AC inverter
712 comprises a Model No. M215 micro inverter, available through
Enchase Energy, of Petaluma, Calif.
[0121] A communication link 22, e.g. wired or wireless, is
preferably connectable to the DC to AC inverter 712. While some
embodiments of the communications link 22 are wireless, other
embodiments of the communications link 22 may comprise a wired link
22, such as through any of a phone line, a dedicated line, or as a
piggy-backed communications signal link 22 over one or more
existing lines, e.g. through one or more of the power lines
704.
[0122] The local DC to AC inverter 712, e.g. a micro-inverter 712,
may preferably be configured, for the receipt and transmission of
signals 722, e.g. 722a,722b, such as for tracking and/or local
control of voltage and/or current delivered to the power lines 704
through the DC to AC inverter 712. The local DC to AC inverter 712
and/or DMPPT 18 may be configured for any of local or off-site
control of start-up, daily shutdown, fail safe/emergency shutdown,
and/or maintenance modes of operation. A controller, e.g. 80 (FIG.
7), such as in conjunction with or within the DC to AC inverter
712, may comprise a mechanism 732 for rotation 734 or other
movement of one or more solar panels 10, such as based on location,
time, shading, maximum illumination direction, and/or service
modes. e.g. shutting down an array 34 or panel 10, and locking in
position to provide for worker access to a utility distribution
pole 702.
[0123] Outgoing signals 722b over the communication link 22 are
typically sent to a controller or server, e.g. 153, e.g. associated
with the operating entity, such as but not limited to a local or
regional utility, which may provide control through a regional
location or through a central location, e.g. headquarters. The
signals 722 may be transferred over a network 158, such as but not
limited to the Internet or a cloud network.
[0124] The enhanced pole-mounted solar power structures 700
disclosed herein provide a localized DC to AC inverter 712, e.g. a
micro-inverter 712, and localized AC connections 714 to the power
lines 704, e.g. right at or near the utility distribution pole 702.
Therefore, there are no transmission costs or losses associated
with the power produced at the enhanced pole-mounted solar power
structures 700.
[0125] Pole-mounted Stationary Flat Solar Power Structures. FIG. 29
is a partial schematic view 750 of an exemplary pole-mounted
stationary planar solar power structure 700c. FIG. 30 is a partial
front view 756 of an exemplary pole-mounted stationary planar solar
power structure 700c.
[0126] In some exemplary embodiments of the pole-mounted stationary
planar solar power structure 700c, the solar array 34 comprises a
flexible rectangular 300 watt panel 10, e.g. having a width 28
(FIG. 2) of 36 inches and a length 29 (FIG. 2) of 10 feet, which is
mounted to a planar mounting rack 706b, having a corresponding
width of 36 inches and length of 10 feet, wherein the planar
mounting rack 706b is fixedly-mountable to a utility distribution
pole 702, i.e. power pole 702, having an exemplary diameter 708 of
10 inches. In another current exemplary embodiment of the
pole-mounted stationary arched solar power structure 700c, the
solar array 34 comprises Part No. SFX-i200 solar panel, available
through Solopower, Inc. of San Jose, Calif., wherein the 200 watt
thin-film panel 10 has a width 28 of 0.88 meters, and a length 29
of 2.98 meters.
[0127] In the Northern hemisphere, the exemplary pole-mounted
stationary planar solar power structure 700c may preferably be
mounted facing southward, to maximize the local power production.
The power production for an exemplary pole-mounted stationary
planar solar power structure 700c, such as having a 20'' wide by
10' long thin-film panel 10 producing 200 watts mounted to a 20''
by 10' rack facing South, is greater than the power production of a
pole-mounted stationary solar power structure 700a having a 180
degree curved mounting 706a that is similarly oriented, since the
average incident light energy is greater for the flat
configuration.
[0128] The exemplary pole-mounted stationary planar solar power
structure 700c seen in FIG. 29 and FIG. 30 is typically configured
to provide a vertical plane for the solar array 34, comprising one
or more solar panels 10, wherein the solar panels 10 are inherently
self-cleaning, since less dirt accumulates on the vertical panel
surfaces 435 (FIG. 1), and at least a portion of any accumulated
dirt is cleaned through any of wind, rain, dew, or fog. The outer
surfaces 435 of the flexible solar panels 10 may also comprise an
outer coating layer 438 (FIG. 1), to further prevent buildup of
dirt and/or promote cleaning.
[0129] The flexible solar array 34 is mountably supported to a
planar mounting rack 706b, which may preferably comprise any of
polyethylene or polycarbonate, wherein the planar mounting rack
706b is attached directly or indirectly to one or more planar panel
mount structures 460b, which are mountable to pole structure 702 or
other stationary object. An access structure 710, e.g. a ladder,
may also be provided, such as on the North side of the pole
structure 702, wherein service personnel can access the solar panel
structure 700c, as well as any of neighboring power lines 704,
phone lines, or other items.
[0130] The exemplary pole-mounted stationary planar solar power
structure 700c seen in FIG. 29 and FIG. 30 similarly comprises a
local DC to AC inverter 712, e.g. a micro-inverter 712, for
inversion of array DC power to AC power, and for AC electrical
connection 714 to the local power grid 58.
[0131] A communication link 22, e.g. wired or wireless, is
preferably connectable to the micro-inverter 712. While some
embodiments of the communications link 22 are wireless, other
embodiments of the communications link 22 may comprise a wired link
22, such as through any of a phone line, a dedicated line, or as a
piggy-backed communications signal link 22 over one or more
existing lines, e.g. through one or more of the power lines
704.
[0132] The local DC to AC inverter 712, e.g. a micro-inverter 712,
may preferably be configured, for the receipt and transmission of
signals 722, e.g. for tracking and/or local control of voltage
and/or current delivered to the power lines 704 through the DC to
AC inverter 712. The local DC to AC inverter 712 may be configured
for any of local or off-site control of start-up, daily shutdown,
fail safe/emergency shutdown, and/or maintenance modes of
operation.
[0133] Outgoing signals 722b over the communication link 22 may
preferably be sent to a controller or server, e.g. 153, such as
associated with the operating entity, e.g. such as but not limited
to a local or regional utility, which may provide control through a
regional location or through a central location, e.g. headquarters.
The outgoing, i.e. uplink, signals 922b may be transferred over a
network, such as but not limited to the Internet or a cloud
network.
[0134] Pole-mounted Rotatable Flat Solar Power Structures. FIG. 31
is a partial schematic view 760 of an exemplary pole-mounted
rotatable planar solar power structure 700d. FIG. 32 is a partial
schematic view 762 of an exemplary pole-mounted rotatable planar
solar power structure 700d, located in the Northern Hemisphere at a
first time T.sub.1, e.g. early morning, wherein the solar array 34
is rotatably positioned 734 in a generally Eastward direction 743a.
FIG. 33 is a partial schematic view 764 of the pole-mounted
rotatable planar solar power structure 700d of FIG. 32, at a second
time T.sub.2, e.g. midday, wherein the solar array 34 is rotatably
positioned 734 in a generally Southward direction 743n. FIG. 34 is
a partial schematic view 766 of the pole-mounted rotatable planar
solar power structure 700d of FIG. 32 and FIG. 33, at a third time
T.sub.3, e.g. just before dusk, wherein the solar array 34 is
rotatably positioned 734 in a generally Westward direction
743s.
[0135] The rotatable planar solar power structure 700d seen in FIG.
31 through FIG. 34 may be similar in mounting 460b to the
stationary planar solar power structure 700c seen in FIG. 29 and
FIG. 30, except for the use of tracks or guides 736, e.g. roller
bearing guides, that allow the mounting rack 706b and corresponding
solar array 34 to rotate 734, e.g. up to 180 degrees, around the
power pole 702. In some system embodiments, the mounting rack 706b
and corresponding solar array 34 may preferably be rotated based on
any of location, time of day, available light, shading, service
needs, startup, shutdown, or any combination thereof. For example,
the mounting rack 706b and corresponding solar array 34 may be
controllably rotated 734, e.g. clockwise in the Northern
hemisphere) from the east in the morning toward the west in the
afternoon, such as responsive to any of local or remote computer
control.
[0136] Transmission Line Mounted Solar Power Structures. FIG. 35 is
a partial schematic view 780 of a transmission line mounted solar
power structure 700e. In one exemplary embodiment, the solar array
comprises a 36'' wide by 10' long thin-film solar panel 10 that is
mounted, with or without a mounting rack 784, flat on top of three
power transmission lines 704. The solar panel 10 and mounting rack
784 may preferably be centered and locked onto the top of the power
pole 702, such as with 5' overhang left and right of the power pole
702, with the solar panel 10 attached to the power lines 704 for
support, and separated from the power lines 704 with a high
dielectric material 786. A local DC to AC inverter 712, e.g. a
micro inverter 712, is connected to the DC outputs of the solar
array 34. The DC to AC inverter 712 also provides a local AC
connection 714 to the local power grid 58, through the power
transmission lines 704.
[0137] Pole Mounted Solar Concentrator Structures. FIG. 36 is a
partial schematic view 800 of an exemplary pole-mounted arched
solar concentrating power structure 700f. FIG. 37 is a partial
schematic view 820 of an exemplary pole-mounted planar solar
concentrating power structure 700g.
[0138] In an exemplary embodiment of the pole-mounted solar
concentrating power structures 700f,700g, a 24 inch wide by 10 foot
long solar concentrating panel 804, e.g. heliostat technology, is
mounted to a corresponding mounting rack 706, e.g. 706a,706b, and
may further comprise roller bearing guides 736 and a rotation
mechanism 732, e.g. a drive motor 732, which allows the solar
concentrating panels 804 to be controllably rotated 734 around the
power pole 702, e.g. up to 180 degrees, from east in the morning to
west in the afternoon, such as responsive to any of local or remote
computer control. The use of heliostat technology, as applied to
one or more of the embodiments 700f,700g, although more complex,
may suitably be implemented to provide more electricity than an
installation without such heliostat mechanisms, e.g. up to an
approximate factor of five times over array embodiments without
solar power concentration.
[0139] Pole Mounted Solar Power Structures Integrated with Wind
Generation Systems. FIG. 38 is a partial schematic view 830 of an
exemplary pole-mounted arched solar power structure 700h, which is
integrated with a wind turbine 832. FIG. 39 is a partial schematic
view 840 of an exemplary pole-mounted planar solar power structure
700i, which is integrated with a wind turbine 832.
[0140] In such combined solar and wind power generation systems
700h, 700i, a wind turbine 832 may preferably be mounted to the
north side of the power pole 702, so as not to interfere with a
thin-film solar array 34 mounted to the south side of the pole 702.
Depending on the solar array width 28 and length 29, the combined
solar and wind power generation systems 732h, 731i may produce more
energy at a given location, in areas that have sufficient wind
speed and duration, as compared to a pole-mounted system 700 that
provides only solar power. As well, since the duty cycles of the
solar power system and the wind power system are not identical, the
power generation from one may be used to provide power to the
other, such as during start up or for troubleshooting.
[0141] Exemplary System Operation. FIG. 40 is a flowchart of an
exemplary process 122b for operation of an enhanced pole-mounted
solar power structure 700. As a solar array 34 starts producing a
voltage 102 and current 104 when light is shining on it, once the
voltage 102 reaches a threshold voltage 116 (FIG. 10), e.g.
approximately 4.5 to 6.5 Volts DC, the DC to AC inverter 712
automatically wakes up 126, and starts performing the necessary
checks 128,130b, before switching over to RUN Mode 132b. For
rotatable system embodiments 700, e.g. 700b,700d,700j (FIG. 41),
the position 743, e.g. 743a-743s (FIGS. 26-28) and rotation 734 of
the rotatable solar array 34 may be monitored, and/or
controlled.
[0142] As the voltage 102 of the solar panel 10 increases, the
micro-inverter 712 starts boosting the voltage 102 from the solar
array 34 to the local distribution bus 42 feeding the local
micro-inverter 712. This wait is necessary to prevent the loss of
control power from the controller circuit 70 (FIG. 7) when
switching begins. By using control inputs, the system tracks the
maximum power point of the solar array 34, and boosts the voltage
out to the local DC Bus 42 feeding the local DC to AC inverter 712,
e.g. a micro-inverter 712. Since the voltage 102i is boosted 1020,
the system as a whole reaches striking voltage for the local DC to
AC inverter 712 in a shorter period than a conventional array of
panels 10 would without DMPPT functionality.
[0143] At seen at step 134b, the process 122b may controllably
updated any of orientation, operation, or initiate shutdown, such
as controlled by the DC to AC inverter 712. As seen at step 136b,
such as during shutdown at the end of the day, the process 122b may
discontinue output power, return to a home orientation for
rotatable system embodiments 700, and initiate DMPPT shutdown 138
as a threshold voltage is reached.
[0144] The local DC to AC inverter 712 address many of the current
limitations of solar power, such as by providing longer harvest
times with panel-level DMPPT functionality, by providing "Early-On"
and "Late-Off" for extended harvest times. Since the output from
the solar panels 10 is boosted, the usable power is converted by
the local DC to AC inverter 712, because the striking voltage is
reached sooner and can be held longer, thereby resulting in an
increase in harvestable power from each of the solar panels 10.
[0145] As well, some embodiments of the local DC to AC inverters
712 and/or DMPPT modules 18 may preferably be reprogrammable or
updatable, such as over the communications link 22, wherein
different algorithms may be sent and stored within the controllers
80, such as for modifying start up, operation, safety and shutdown
operations.
[0146] The local DC to AC inverters 712 also help to reduce the
effects of partial shading on solar panels 10 in arrays 34. In
conventional solar panels, partial shading of a single cell 12
causes the entire panel and string in which it is connected to
reduce power output, and also increases loses due to string
mismatch, by lowering the MPPT point for an entire solar array. In
contrast to conventional panels, the local DC to AC inverters 712
and/or DMPPT modules 18 can controllably compensate for partial
shading at the panel level, to boost the DC output signal 102o.
[0147] The use of local DC to AC inverters 712 different
embodiments of enhanced pole-mounted systems 700 provide many
advantages over prior technologies. For example, the local DC to AC
inverter 712 can readily be used to boost the DC performance of a
pole mounted structure 700, and can readily be controlled, either
through the communication link 22, or locally, e.g. by service
personnel, to shut down the associated array 34. For solar panels
10 and/or arrays 34 that may preferably track production of one or
more cells 12 on a panel 10, e.g. a column, the local DC to AC
inverter 712 may be used to locally monitor energy production as a
function of column, such as to provide a local set point for
rotating the solar array 34 to center itself toward a direction of
maximum power harvest.
[0148] It should be understood that the pole mounted structures 700
and methods for their use may be implemented for systems that do
not include DMPPT modules 18. As well, local DC to AC inverters 712
and the methods for their use may be implemented for a wide variety
of power generation systems and structures.
[0149] Furthermore, while some of the embodiments of pole-mounted
solar power structures 700 are described herein as comprising a
single flexible solar panel 10 that is fixed or rotatably
controllable, it should be understood that the pole mounted
structures 700 and methods for their use may be implemented for
systems that comprise a plurality of solar panels 10, such as for
but not limited to available panel geometry, and/or providing wind
gaps defined between neighboring panels 10.
[0150] In addition, while some of the embodiments of pole-mounted
solar power structures 700 are described herein as comprising a
track or guides 736 for rotating solar panel assemblies 706, it
should be understood that the pole mounted structures 700 and
methods for their use may be rotated using a wide variety of
mechanisms, such as structures for relative movement or rotation
about the inner diameter of a mounting pole 702, structures for
relative movement of the solar panels in relation to an outer
defined arch, and/or any other mechanism for relative rotation for
one or more solar panels 10 with respect to a fixed utility
structure.
[0151] For example, FIG. 41 is a partial schematic view 860 of an
exemplary pole-mounted solar power structure 700j having an
extended pivot structure 864,866. The structure 700j may in some
embodiments be stationary, or in other embodiments, be rotatable
734 about a pivot structure 868 that extends 866, such as from a
pole mount 864. The exemplary structure seen in FIG. 41 is
therefore non-concentric to the pole 702 from which it extends. In
some embodiments, the panel rotation mechanism 732 may operate
directly upon an axis 925 (FIG. 46) associated with the solar panel
support structure. While the exemplary DC to AC inverter 712, e.g.
a micro-inerter 712, shown in the embodiment of FIG. 41 is
generally located upon the solar panels structure, it should be
understood that the DC to AC inverter 712 and/or DMPPT 18, in this
or other system embodiments 700, may be located at other locations,
as desired, such as but not limited to being affixed to any of
another portion of the mounting structure 864 or mounting rack 862,
to the power pole 702 itself, or to other associated equipment or
structures.
[0152] FIG. 42 is a partial bird's eye schematic view 870 of an
exemplary pole-mounted rotatable planar solar power structure 700j,
located in the Northern Hemisphere at a first time T.sub.1, wherein
the solar array 34 is rotatably positioned 734 in a generally
Eastward direction 743a. FIG. 43 is a partial bird's eye schematic
view 880 of the pole-mounted rotatable planar solar power structure
700j of FIG. 42 at a second time T.sub.2, wherein the solar array
34 is rotatably positioned 734 in a generally Southward direction
743n. FIG. 44 is a partial bird's eye schematic view 890 of the
pole-mounted rotatable planar solar power structure 700j of FIG. 42
and FIG. 43 at a third time T.sub.3, wherein the solar array 34 is
rotatably positioned 734 in a generally Westward direction 743s. As
seen in FIG. 42 to FIG. 44, the length of the extension arms 866
may preferably be greater than half the width of the solar array
34, such as to allow at least 180 degrees of rotation 734 and,
depending on the system configuration, may be configured to allow
full rotation 734 of the solar array 34, e.g. clockwise rotation
and/or counterclockwise rotation.
[0153] FIG. 45 is a side schematic view 900 of the pole-mounted
rotatable planar solar power structure 700j of FIG. 42, wherein the
solar array 34 is rotatably positioned 734 in a generally Eastward
direction 743a. FIG. 46 is a side schematic view 910 of the
pole-mounted rotatable planar solar power structure 700j
corresponding to FIG. 43, wherein the solar array 34 is rotatably
positioned 734 in a generally Southward direction 743n. FIG. 47 is
a side schematic view 920 of the pole-mounted rotatable planar
solar power structure 700j corresponding to FIG. 44, wherein the
solar array 34 is rotatably positioned 734 in a generally Westward
direction 743s. The exemplary pole-mounted rotatable flat solar
power structure 700j seen in FIG. 41 to FIG. 47 may preferably
allow full rotation 734, e.g. clockwise rotation, such as
throughout the day during power production, and similarly, to
return to a starting position, 743, e.g. 743a.
[0154] While the exemplary pole-mounted rotatable planar solar
power structure 700j seen in FIG. 41 to FIG. 47 is disclosed in
regard to a planar solar array 34 and mounting rack 862, it should
be understood that the power structure 700j may readily be
implemented with other profiles, such as but not limited to curved
or arched solar arrays 34. As well, the curvature in some system
embodiments 700, e.g. 700j is not limited to being concentric to
the pole structure 702. For example, a solar array 34 and
corresponding mounting rack 862 may preferably be formed with a
substantially gradual curve, i.e. having a large effective radius,
such as to effectively collect incoming solar energy, in a similar
manner to a planar panel, while providing a more robust mechanical
structure, in a similar manner to a curved mounting rack.
[0155] Accordingly, although the invention has been described in
detail with reference to a particular preferred embodiment, persons
possessing ordinary skill in the art to which this invention
pertains will appreciate that various modifications and
enhancements may be made without departing from the spirit and
scope of the disclosed exemplary embodiments.
* * * * *