Classifications

• • 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
  • H02S20/20—Supporting structures directly fixed to an immovable object
  • H02S20/22—Supporting structures directly fixed to an immovable object specially adapted for buildings
• • F—MECHANICAL ENGINEERING; LIGHTING; HEATING; WEAPONS; BLASTING
  • F24—HEATING; RANGES; VENTILATING
  • F24S—SOLAR HEAT COLLECTORS; SOLAR HEAT SYSTEMS
  • F24S23/00—Arrangements for concentrating solar-rays for solar heat collectors
  • F24S23/30—Arrangements for concentrating solar-rays for solar heat collectors with lenses
  • F24S23/31—Arrangements for concentrating solar-rays for solar heat collectors with lenses having discontinuous faces, e.g. Fresnel lenses
• • F—MECHANICAL ENGINEERING; LIGHTING; HEATING; WEAPONS; BLASTING
  • F24—HEATING; RANGES; VENTILATING
  • F24S—SOLAR HEAT COLLECTORS; SOLAR HEAT SYSTEMS
  • F24S25/00—Arrangement of stationary mountings or supports for solar heat collector modules
  • F24S25/70—Arrangement of stationary mountings or supports for solar heat collector modules with means for adjusting the final position or orientation of supporting elements in relation to each other or to a mounting surface; with means for compensating mounting tolerances
• • 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
  • F24S30/45—Arrangements for moving or orienting solar heat collector modules for rotary movement with two rotation axes
  • F24S30/452—Vertical primary axis
• • 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
• • 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
  • H02S40/00—Components or accessories in combination with PV modules, not provided for in groups H02S10/00 - H02S30/00
  • H02S40/20—Optical components
  • H02S40/22—Light-reflecting or light-concentrating means
• • 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
• • 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
  • F24S2030/136—Transmissions for moving several solar collectors by common transmission elements
• • 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
  • F24S2030/137—Transmissions for deriving one movement from another one, e.g. for deriving elevation movement from azimuth movement
• • 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
  • Y02B—CLIMATE CHANGE MITIGATION TECHNOLOGIES RELATED TO BUILDINGS, e.g. HOUSING, HOUSE APPLIANCES OR RELATED END-USER APPLICATIONS
  • Y02B10/00—Integration of renewable energy sources in buildings
  • Y02B10/10—Photovoltaic [PV]
• • 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
  • Y02B—CLIMATE CHANGE MITIGATION TECHNOLOGIES RELATED TO BUILDINGS, e.g. HOUSING, HOUSE APPLIANCES OR RELATED END-USER APPLICATIONS
  • Y02B10/00—Integration of renewable energy sources in buildings
  • Y02B10/20—Solar thermal
• • 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
  • Y02E10/52—PV systems with concentrators

Definitions

• the invention relates to a solar panel assembly.
• a solar panel assembly for collecting sunlight comprising a solar panel and a central holder which bears the solar panel in the centre thereof so as to be rotatable about a vertical rotation axis, is known.
• the angle of inclination of the solar panel in the known solar panel assembly is controlled by a control arm.
• the control arm At a first outer end the control arm is rotatably coupled to a fixed point on an outer edge of the solar panel, and at a second outer end, spaced apart from the central holder, is rotatably coupled to a fixed point on the foundation.
• the length of the control arm is such that the solar panel within the range of the control arm can be rotated approximately one hundred and eighty degrees with respect to the fixed point on the foundation about the vertical rotation axis.
• the known solar panel assembly therefore is provided with a return control with which the solar panel can be rotated back in the direction of the starting position. It is an object of the invention to provide a solar panel that improves on this.
• the invention provides a solar panel assembly for collecting sunlight, comprising an underframe to be placed on a foundation, a first solar panel holder borne by the underframe and a solar panel borne by the first solar panel holder, wherein the first solar panel holder comprises a basis disposed on the underframe and having a circumference onto which a drive engages for rotation of the first solar panel holder with respect to the underframe about a vertical rotation axis, wherein with respect to the first solar panel holder the solar panel is rotatable about a horizontal rotation axis, wherein the vertical rotation axis is perpendicular to the horizontal rotation axis and intersects the horizontal rotation axis in an intersection, wherein the solar panel assembly is provided with a second solar panel holder which, preferably when viewed parallel to the vertical rotation axis, is situated fully within the circumference of the basis of the first solar panel holder, wherein at a first side the second solar panel holder is rotatably coupled to the solar panel and which, at a second
• the assembly of the first solar panel holder and the second solar panel holder provides a motion mechanism that is adapted for keeping the solar panel optimally focussed on the sun so as to be swivelling about the horizontal rotation axis. In that way the incidence of light onto the solar panel can be optimised in order to achieve an optimal yield.
• the second solar panel holder when viewed parallel to the vertical rotation axis, is situated fully within the circumference of the basis of the first solar panel holder, it can freely be rotated one or several revolutions, without directly contacting the first solar panel holder.
• a returning rotary motion as required in the state of the art, has become unnecessary in this embodiment.
• a simple drive, driving the first solar panel holder several revolutions in one direction of revolution, will therefore suffice.
• the second solar panel holder in case of a full revolution about the parallactic rotation axis covers an area, wherein said area is free from the first solar panel holder.
• the first solar panel holder can as a result freely be rotated one or several revolutions.
• the second solar panel holder is provided with a control arm extending between the first side of the second solar panel holder and the second side of the second solar panel holder.
• the control arm is able to control the angle of inclination of the main surface of the solar panel about the horizontal rotation axis depending on the rotation of the control arm about the parallactic rotation axis and the rotation of the solar panel about the vertical rotation axis.
• the second solar panel holder is provided with an engagement device that is bearing mounted in the control arm so as to be rotatable about a seasonal adjustment rotation axis, wherein the seasonal adjustment rotation axis is at an angle to the parallactic rotation axis and intersects the intersection of the parallactic rotation axis, the horizontal rotation axis and the vertical rotation axis, wherein the engagement device with respect to the seasonal adjustment rotation axis is rotation-fixedly coupled to the solar panel, wherein the second solar panel holder is provided with a transmission that mechanically couples rotary motion of the control arm about the parallactic rotation axis with respect to the coupling of the first side of the second solar panel holder to the underframe via a transmission ratio to the rotary motion of the engagement device about the seasonal adjustment rotation axis with respect to the control arm.
• the transmission ensures a continuous mechanical seasonal adaptation or seasonal adjustment of the angle of inclination of the main surface of the solar panel, in order to keep it substantially perpendicular to the incoming sunrays during the changing
• the transmission ratio is in the range of 1:364.25 to 1:366.25, wherein the transmission ratio preferably is 1:365.25.
• a full revolution of the engagement about the seasonal adjustment rotation axis covers approximately 364.25 to 366.25 full revolutions of the control arm about the parallactic rotation axis, which corresponds with the duration of a year in days, whether or not one leap year every four years is taken into account.
• the engagement device engages at a distance from the intersection between the parallactic rotation axis, the horizontal rotation axis and the vertical rotation axis, preferably at an outer edge of the solar panel or an arched guide coupled to the solar panel.
• the engagement device generates leverage as a result of which the movement of the control arm can be advantageously applied to the solar panel .
• the outer edge of the solar panel or the arched guide include an arched segment the centre of which coincides with the intersection between the parallactic rotation axis, the horizontal rotation axis and the vertical rotation axis.
• the engagement device can engage onto the outer edge of the solar panel from a rotation of the control arm about the parallactic rotation axis, while the solar panel is able to slide through the engagement device in a rotation about the vertical axis of rotation.
• the drive is provided with a drive pinion and a drive belt connected to the drive pinion, wherein the basis of the first solar panel holder has a circle-cylindrical shape, wherein the drive around a portion of the circumference of the circle-cylindrical basis engages onto the first solar panel holder.
• the basis of the solar panel holder has a circle-cylindrical outer circumference which in an advantageous transmission ratio can be driven by the drive.
• the circle-cylindrical shape of the basis can moreover limit a circular inner space without abrupt obstacles within which the second solar panel holder is able to rotate free from and unimpeded by the first solar panel holder.
• the solar panel assembly is provided with a control unit, which measures the rotary speed of the second solar panel holder about the parallactic rotation axis and compares it with a fixed or linear angular speed, wherein the control unit is adapted for adjusting the drive on the basis of the comparison in order to have the rotation of the second solar panel holder about the parallactic rotation axis run linearly. Because of this measurement and control feedback the drive can be controlled non-linearly in order to effect a linear rotation of the second solar panel holder about the parallactic axis.
• the drive is provided with the control unit adapted for in a cycle of twenty-four hours linearly rotating the second solar panel holder about the parallactic rotation axis.
• the rotary speed of the second solar panel holder about the parallactic axis runs synchronous with the rotary speed of the earth.
• the second solar panel holder is coupled to the solar panel.
• the second solar panel holder is able to rotate in the intersection about the field rotation axis of the solar panel, so that the solar panel is able to rotate about the horizontal rotation axis within the freedom of movement of the control arm.
• the second solar panel holder comprises a control arm, wherein the control arm is provided with consecutively a first segment coupled to the underframe and situated on the parallactic rotation axis, a second segment that deflects from the first segment of the parallactic rotation axis and a third segment coupled to the solar panel and spanning the distance between the deflection of the second segment and the intersection in the solar panel. Because of the curved shape of the control arm composed from the first, second and third segment, the control arm can at the first side and the second side be coupled to the solar panel and the underframe, respectively, in line with the parallactic rotation axis and the field rotation axis.
• the third segment of the control arm is provided with a connection element that is adapted for securing the third segment on a position along the longitudinal direction of the second segment.
• the connection element By means of the connection element the solar panel can be secured at an angle to the parallactic rotation axis, in order to compensate for the variation in the movement of the sun through the sky as perceived from planet earth during the seasons.
• the parallactic rotation axis is parallel to the polar line or polar axis of planet earth.
• the parallelism of the parallactic rotation axis with respect to the polar axis of planet earth can compensate for the skewness of the underframe on the curved earth surface with respect to the polar axis.
• the first solar panel holder is provided with two vertically upright supports between which the solar panel is disposed, wherein the upright supports are provided with bearings for rotation of the solar panel about the horizontal rotation axis.
• the solar panel can be suspended symmetrically within the outer circumference of the basis of the first solar panel holder.
• the supports are able to bear the solar panel at such a high level that below it there is sufficient room for letting the second solar panel rotate freely within the circumference of the first solar panel holder.
• the horizontal axis can be designed to be a crankshaft, so that below it there is even more room available to let the second solar panel holder rotate freely.
• the solar panel comprises a flat plate, wherein on one side the plate is provided with photovoltaic cells. Photovoltaic cells are able to absorb sunrays dropping on the plate and convert the solar energy thereof into electricity.
• the solar panel comprises a lens or mirror which converges sunrays that drop substantially parallel on the lens or mirror, wherein the solar panel is provided with a solar energy convertor placed spaced apart from the lens or mirror, situated near the focus of the lens or mirror.
• the lens or mirror is able to deflect the sunrays dropping on the lens mirror so that they converge in a focus situated near the solar collector.
• the solar energy convertor for instance a solar collector, is able to convert the solar energy of the bundled sunrays into electricity.
• the invention provides a solar panel assembly for collecting sunlight, comprising an underframe to be placed on a foundation, a first solar panel holder borne by the underframe and a solar panel borne by the first solar panel holder, wherein the first solar panel holder comprises a basis disposed on the underframe and having a circumference onto which a drive engages for rotation of the first solar panel holder with respect to the underframe about a vertical rotation axis, wherein with respect to the first solar panel holder the solar panel is rotatable about a horizontal rotation axis, wherein the vertical rotation axis is perpendicular to the horizontal rotation axis and intersects the horizontal rotation axis in an intersection, wherein the solar panel assembly is provided with a second solar panel holder which at a first side is rotatably coupled to the solar panel and which at a second side spaced apart from the first side of the second solar panel holder and spaced apart from the vertical rotation axis is rotatably coupled to the underframe, wherein the second solar panel assembly
• the second solar panel holder when viewed parallel to the vertical rotation axis, is situated fully within the circumference of the basis of the first solar panel holder, it can freely be rotated one or several revolutions, without directly contacting the first solar panel holder.
• a returning rotary motion as required in the state of the art, has become unnecessary in this embodiment.
• a simple drive, driving the first solar panel holder several revolutions in one direction of revolution, will therefore suffice.
• the invention provides a method for collecting sunlight using a solar panel assembly, wherein the solar panel assembly comprises an underframe to be placed on a foundation, a first solar panel holder borne by the underframe and a solar panel borne by the first solar panel holder, wherein the first solar panel holder comprises a basis disposed on the underframe and having a circumference onto which a drive engages for rotation of the first solar panel holder with respect to the underframe about a vertical rotation axis, wherein with respect to the first solar panel holder the solar panel is rotatable about a horizontal rotation axis, wherein the vertical rotation axis is perpendicular to the horizontal rotation axis and intersects the horizontal rotation axis in an intersection, wherein the solar panel assembly is provided with a second solar panel holder which, preferably when viewed parallel to the vertical rotation axis, is situated fully within the circumference of the basis of the first solar panel holder, wherein the second solar panel holder at a first side is rotatably coupled to the
• the assembly of the first solar panel holder and the second solar panel holder provides a motion mechanism that is adapted for keeping the solar panel optimally focussed on the sun so as to be swivelling about the horizontal rotation axis. In that way the incidence of light onto the solar panel can be optimised in order to achieve an optimal yield.
• the second solar panel holder is situated fully within the circumference of the basis of the first solar panel holder, it can freely be rotated one or several revolutions, without directly contacting the first solar panel holder.
• a returning rotary motion as required in the state of the art, has become unnecessary in this embodiment.
• a simple drive, driving the first solar panel holder several revolutions in one direction of revolution, will therefore suffice.
• the second solar panel holder is provided with an engagement device that is bearing mounted in the control arm so as to be rotatable about a seasonal adjustment rotation axis, wherein the seasonal adjustment rotation axis is at an angle to the parallactic rotation axis and intersects the intersection of the parallactic rotation axis, the horizontal rotation axis and the vertical rotation axis, wherein the engagement device with respect to the seasonal adjustment rotation axis is rotation-fixedly coupled to the solar panel, wherein the second solar panel holder is provided with a transmission, wherein the method furthermore comprises the step of via a transmission ratio mechanically coupling the rotary motion of the control arm about the parallactic rotation axis with respect to the coupling of the first side of the second solar panel holder to the underframe to the rotary motion of the engagement device about the seasonal adjustment rotation axis with respect to the control arm.
• the transmission ensures a continuous mechanical seasonal adaptation or seasonal adjustment of the angle of inclination of the main surface of the solar panel, in order to keep it substantially perpen
• the method furthermore comprises the steps of measuring the rotary speed of the second solar panel holder about the parallactic axis, comparing the rotary speed of the second solar panel holder about the parallactic axis with a constant or fixed angular speed, based on the comparison adjusting the drive so that the rotary speed about the parallactic axis applied to the second solar panel holder by the first solar panel holder via the solar panel runs linearly, as a result of the rotation of the second solar panel holder about the parallactic rotation axis having the solar panel rotate about the horizontal rotation axis. Because of this measurement and control feedback the drive can be controlled non- linearly in order to effect a linear rotation of the second solar panel holder about the parallactic axis.
• a full rotation of the second solar panel holder about the parallactic axis takes twenty-four hours.
• the rotary speed of the second solar panel holder about the parallactic axis runs synchronous with the rotary speed of the earth.
• the solar panel is oriented towards the sun with its main surface, wherein the main surface preferably is oriented perpendicularly towards the sun.
• the solar panel can during half a rotation, a full or several rotations about the vertical rotation axis, collect solar energy and convert it into electricity.
• the solar panel in an initial position, is oriented towards sunrise and in an end position is oriented towards sundown, wherein the drive is adapted to move the solar panel between the initial position and the end position in a synchronised tracking motion with the sun. From sunrise in the east until sundown in the west, the solar panel can track about the vertical rotation axis in order to collect solar energy and optimally convert it into electricity .
• Figure 1 shows a side view of a solar panel assembly according to the invention
• Figure 2 shows a side view of planet earth with the solar panel assembly according to figure 1;
• Figure 3A-F show schematic views of the operation of the solar panel assembly according to figure 1 when tracking the sun from planet earth;
• Figure 4 shows a first alternative embodiment of a solar panel assembly according to the invention
• Figure 5 shows a second alternative embodiment of a solar panel assembly according to the invention
• Figure 6 shows an isometric view of a third alternative embodiment of a solar panel assembly according to the invention
• Figure 7 ⁇ shows a front view of a solar panel assembly according to figure 6 in a first ultimate position
• Figure 7B shows a front view of the solar panel assembly according to figure 6 in a second ultimate position.
• FIG. 1 shows a solar panel assembly 1 according to the invention for from planet earth tracking the sun.
• the solar panel assembly 1 comprises a horizontal underframe 2, a first solar panel holder 3 placed on the underframe 2 and a solar panel 4 borne by the first solar panel holder 3.
• the underframe 2 is provided with a first rotary bearing 21 which couples the first solar panel holder 3 to the underframe 2 and a drive pinion 22 that is coupled to the first solar panel holder 3 by means of a drive belt 23.
• the first rotary bearing 21 has a vertical rotation axis V that passes through the symmetrical centre of the first solar panel holder 3.
• the vertical rotation axis V is substantially perpendicular to the tangent plane of the curved surface of planet earth at the location where the solar panel assembly 1 is positioned.
• the first solar panel holder 3 comprises a circle-cylindrical, hollow basis 32 which is placed on the first rotary bearing 21.
• the hollow basis 32 defines a circular inner space L below the solar panel 4.
• On the outside the circle-cylindrical basis 32 is provided with a ribbed texture 37 onto which the drive belt 23 engages.
• the solar panel assembly 1 may comprise a chain or gear wheel drive.
• the first solar panel holder 3 is provided with a first support 33 and a second support 34, which extend vertically upwards from the basis 32 on sides that are straight opposite each other.
• the first support 33 and the second support 34 at their free outer end are provided with a second rotary bearing 35 and a third rotary bearing 36, respectively, that have a common, horizontal rotation axis X.
• the solar panel 4 in this example comprises a rectangular plate 41 having a straight main surface and a number of photovoltaic cells 42 that are mounted on the upwardly oriented main surface of the plate 41 for collecting solar energy and converting it into electricity.
• the solar panel 4 In the centre of the short sides the solar panel 4 is borne by the second rotary bearing 35 and the third rotary bearing 36.
• the horizontal rotation axis X of the second rotary bearing 35 and the third rotary bearing 36 extends through the plate 41, and coincides with the longitudinal centre line of the plate 41.
• the longitudinal centre line of the plate 41 divides the plate 41 into two equal parts.
• the solar panel 4 in the centre of the plate 41, is provided with a fourth rotary bearing 45 having a field rotation axis or seasonal adjustment rotation axis S that is perpendicular to the main surface of the plate 41.
• the seasonal adjustment rotation axis S in intersection B intersects the vertical rotation axis V of the first rotary bearing 21 and the horizontal rotation axis X of the second rotary bearing 35 and the third rotary bearing 36.
• the intersection B is situated in the symmetrical centre of the plate 41, on its longitudinal centre line.
• the plate 41 can be shifted perpendicularly on the seasonal adjustment rotation axis S and be spaced apart from the horizontal rotation axis X, for instance when the plate 41 is mounted on a spacer that is not shown and that is connected to the second rotary bearing 35 and the thixd rotary bearing 36 at the location of the horizontal rotation axis X.
• the plate 41 in that case rotates spaced apart from the horizontal rotation axis X about the horizontal rotation axis X.
• the solar panel assembly 1 comprises a second solar panel holder 5 that couples the underframe 2 to the solar panel .
• the second solar panel holder 5 is provided with a fifth rotary bearing 51 which, upright from the underframe 2, is location-fixedly connected to the underframe 2 within the circumference of the hollow basis 32 of the first solar panel holder 3.
• the fifth rotary bearing 51 has a parallactic rotation axis P that is at an oblique angle to the underframe 2.
• the second solar panel holder 5 comprises a shape-retaining, curved control arm 52.
• the control arm 52 is provided with a first straight segment 53 which with its free outer end is inserted into the fifth rotary bearing 51.
• the first straight segment 53 is situated on the parallactic rotation axis P for rotation about the parallactic rotation axis P about its axis. Via a curvature the first straight segment 53 merges into a second straight segment 54.
• the second straight segment 54 bends away from the parallactic rotation axis P and considered from the first straight segment 53 is oriented away from the main surface of the plate 41. Due to the bending away from the first straight segment 53 the solar panel 4 can in steep positions with respect to the underframe 2 run free from the control arm 52, as a result of which the solar panel 4 is able to go through one or several full revolutions about the vertical rotation axis V, without the control arm 52 contacting the solar panel 4.
• the third straight segment 55 is situated on the seasonal adjustment rotation axis S for rotation about the seasonal adjustment rotation axis S about its axis.
• the rigid control arm 52 is limited to rotary motions about the parallactic rotation axis P and the seasonal adjustment rotation axis S.
• the first support 33 and the second 34 of the hollow basis 32 bear the solar panel 4 at such a level that the control arm 52 situated below it is able to rotate freely about the parallactic rotation axis P.
• the control arm 52 extends free from the first solar panel holder 3 from the fifth rotary bearing 51 through the inners space L of the hollow basis 32 to the solar panel 4.
• the parallactic rotation axis P intersects the vertical rotation axis V, the horizontal rotation axis X and the seasonal adjustment axis S in the intersection B. Due to the rotation axes P, X, V and S coming together in the intersection B and due to the symmetrical location of the intersection B within the first solar panel holder 3, the forces between and/or in constituent parts as a result of rotary motions are counteracted.
• the second solar panel holder 5 is provided with an angle meter 56, for instance a potentio meter, for measuring the angle of rotation or rotary position of the control arm 52 about the parallactic rotation axis P, a timer 57 and a control unit 58 for controlling the drive pinion 22.
• an angle meter 56 for instance a potentio meter, for measuring the angle of rotation or rotary position of the control arm 52 about the parallactic rotation axis P
• a timer 57 for controlling the drive pinion 22.
• Figure 2 schematically shows that the earth surface 9, which is generally experienced to be substantially horizontal, due to the curvature of the earth surface 9 is tilted with respect to the plane that is spanned by the equator E, unless one is at the North or South Pole.
• the position of the solar panel assembly 1 on the curved earth surface 9 at a distance from the North or South Pole, as a consequence results in the vertical rotation axis V being at a deviating angle to the polar line or polar axis Q of planet earth. Due to said deviating angle of the vertical rotation axis V to the polar axis Q and due to planet earth rotating about the polar axis Q, tracking the sun from another location than the North or South Pole is subject to a complex combination of rotations.
• the ratio of the solar panel assembly 1 in figure 2 in relation to the size of the earth is strongly exaggerated for the sake of clarity.
• the parallactic rotation axis P of the fifth rotary bearing 51 is at an oblique angle to the horizontal underframe 2.
• the parallactic rotation axis P of the fifth rotary bearing 51 should be set parallel to the polar axis Q of planet earth, perpendicular to the plane spanned by the equator E of the earth.
• the solar panel assembly 1, as shown in figure 3A, is adapted for accurately tracking the sun from a certain location on the earth surface, such that the main surface of the plate 41 remains oriented perpendicular to the sun.
• the rotation of the rigid control arm 52 about the parallactic rotation axis P is measured and is compared to a regular signal of the timer 57.
• the difference in rotary speed of the rigid control arm 52 with respect to the regular signal of the timer 57 is processed in the control unit 58 into a control signal for the drive pinion 22, such that the control arm 52, contrary to the rotation direction of planet earth about the polar axis, rotates about the parallactic rotation axis P at a constant or linear angular speed proportional in time.
• the solar panel 4 coupled to the control arm 52 rotates along within the rotation liberties applied by the first rotary bearing 21, the second rotary bearing 35 and the third rotary bearing 36 about the vertical rotation axis V and the horizontal rotation axis X.
• the rotation of the solar panel 4 about the horizontal rotation axis X applied by the control arm 52 and the rotation of the first solar panel holder 3 about the vertical rotation axis V driven by the drive belt 23 result in a slavish rotation of the solar panel 4 about the horizontal rotation axis X and the vertical rotation axis V.
• FIGS 3A-F show a series of three solar panel assemblies 1 according to figure 1 positioned in a straight line.
• the solar panel assemblies 1 may be part of a longer series of solar panel assemblies 1, for instance on a roof of a building.
• the solar panel assemblies 1 within the series in the same horizontal plane can be jointly driven by the drive belt 23 of one drive pinion 22.
• the drive belt 23 is adapted as regards length so that it forms a loop about the entire series of solar panel assemblies 1.
• the drive belt 23 therefore engages onto at least a part of the circumference of each basis 32 of consecutive solar panel assemblies 1.
• the solar panel holders 3 of the solar panel assemblies 1 are in the same starting position and are simultaneously driven, as a result of which they move in a synchronised manner.
• one of the solar panel assemblies 1 of the series needs to be provided with an angle meter 56.
• the other solar panel assemblies 1 then rotate slavishly along on the basis of the motion of the one solar panel assembly 1.
• the figures 3A-F show six consecutive moments of the rotations of the solar panels 4 about the horizontal rotation axis X and the vertical rotation axis V. As all solar panel assemblies 1 of the series move in a synchronised manner from the same starting position, the rotary motions within only one of the solar panel assemblies 1 will be described below.
• FIG 3A shows the solar panel assembly 1 in the starting situation, for instance at sunrise in the east.
• a schematic compass is shown indicating the four main points of the compass north N, east 0, south Z and west W. Due to the large distance between the sun and the earth the sunrays of the sun hit the earth surface parallel to each other. The direction of the sunrays with respect to the solar panel assembly 1 is indicated with arrow C.
• the solar panel 4 is rotated about the horizontal rotation axis X at a steep, almost vertical angle of inclination to the horizontal underframe 2.
• the side of the plate 41 provided with photovoltaic cells 42 is substantially oriented eastward 0, wherein the side of the plate 41 with the photovoltaic cells 42 is oriented substantially perpendicular to the sunray direction C in order to effect an optimal collection of solar energy by the photovoltaic cells 42.
• FIG 3B shows the situation in which the drive pinion 22 has rotated the drive belt 23.
• the drive belt 23 has rotated the first solar panel holder 3 during a few hours about the vertical rotation axis V from the east 0 in the direction of the southeast ZO.
• the rotary motion of the first solar panel holder 3 about the vertical rotation axis V is passed on to the solar panel 4 via the second rotary bearing 35 and the third rotary bearing 36.
• the solar panel 4 has rotated about the horizontal rotation axis X. It is now a few hours after sunrise and the sun has risen higher in sky as perceived from planet earth.
• the angle of inclination of the plate 41 has decreased, as a result of which the side of the plate 41 with the photovoltaic cells 42 has remained oriented substantially perpendicular to the continuously changing sunray direction C.
• the angle meter 56 has measured the rotary speed of the control arm 52 about the parallactic rotation axis P.
• a full rotation of planet earth about the polar axis takes twenty-four hours, as a result of which the rotation about the parallactic rotation axis P, which after all is parallel to the polar axis, can be brought in linear relation with the time passed. If the rotation of the control arm 52 about the parallactic rotation axis P takes place too quickly with respect to the pulses of the timer 57, the drive pinion 22 is slowed down by the control unit 58.
• the drive pinion 22 is accelerated or slowed down less by the control unit 58.
• the rotations of the solar panel 4 about the vertical rotation axis V and the horizontal rotation axis X thus are non-linear and depend on the constant or linear rotation of the control arm 52 about the parallactic rotation axis P and are correspondingly controlled by the measurement and control units 56, 58 on the basis of the pulses of the timer 57.
• Figures 3C-F show the moments of the continued rotation of the first solar panel holder 3 from the southeast ZO in the direction of the west W as a result of the driven rotation about the vertical rotation axis V and the rotation of the solar panel 4 about the horizontal rotation axis X within the rotation liberties applied by the control arm 52.
• the side of the plate 41 with the photovoltaic cells 42 remains oriented substantially perpendicular to the continuously changing sunray direction C.
• the solar panel 4 substantially faces southeast ZO, wherein the angle of inclination of the plate 41 to the horizontal underframe 2 has increased further.
• the solar panel 4 is substantially faces south Z, wherein the angle of inclination of the plate 41 to the horizontal underframe 2 has decreased further.
• the sun is now at its zenith in the sky as perceived from planet earth, for instance around noon, or has just passed it.
• the solar panel 4 is substantially faces southwest Z , wherein the angle of inclination of the plate 41 to the horizontal underframe 2 has increased.
• the solar panel 4 is substantially faces west W, wherein the angle of inclination of the plate 41 to the horizontal underframe 2 has further increased to an almost vertical position.
• the sun is now at the bottom of the sky as perceived from planet earth.
• the solar panel assembly 1 has at least rotated half a stroke or one hundred and eighty degrees about the vertical rotation axis V.
• the first solar panel holder 3 can be rotated onwards by the drive belt 23 about the vertical rotation axis V over the north N up to the east 0, wherein the solar panel 4 traverses a full revolution of three hundred and sixty degrees about the vertical rotation axis V. Cabling between the solar panel 4 and the underframe 2 may in that case be provided with electric slide contacts.
• the drive direction of the drive pinion 22 can be reversed, wherein the drive belt 23 rotates the first solar panel holder 3 half a stroke into the other direction or one hundred and eighty degrees back from the west W over the south Z to the east O. Cabling between the solar panel 4 and the underframe 2 can in that case be arranged more easily, as there is only question of a limited rotation of one hundred and eighty degrees of the first solar panel holder 3 about the vertical rotation axis V.
• the solar panel assembly 1 in this example is positioned in the northern hemisphere of planet earth, where the sun in the sky as perceived from the northern hemisphere rises in the east 0, turns over the south Z and goes down in the west W. In the southern hemisphere the sun rises in the east 0, turns over the north N and goes down in the west W.
• the solar panel assembly 1 according to figure 1 may in that case be driven in opposite direction by the drive pinion 22, wherein it is of importance that the solar panel assembly 1 is positioned such that the side of the plate 41 with the photovoltaic cells 42 rotates from the east 0 over the north N to the west W instead of over the south Z.
• the solar panel assembly 1 in this example is positioned at a certain latitude from the North Pole of planet earth. Depending on the position of the solar panel assembly 1 along the latitude the angle of the parallactic rotation axis P to the horizontal underframe 2 changes. In that case another fifth rotary bearing 51 having another angle of inclination of the parallactic rotation axis P or an alternative fifth rotary bearing that is adjustable and not shown, can be opted for.
• FIG 4 shows a first alternative embodiment of the solar panel assembly 101 having seasonal adjustment.
• the solar panel assembly 101 comprises an alternative control arm 152, which in the transition from the second segment 154 to the third segment 155 is provided with a first hinge 160 and which in the transition from the first segment 153 to the second segment 154 is provided with a second hinge 163.
• the first hinge 160 ensures a rotation of the seasonal adjustment rotation axis S about the intersection B in the direction of the arrow K for attaching the solar panel 4 to the second segment 154.
• the second hinge 163 absorbs the rotation of the second segment 154 as a result of the shifting of the third segment 155 along the second segment 154.
• the control arm 152 is provided with a hollow bush 161 that has been slid over the second segment 154 and a wing bolt 162 that extends through a recess in the hollow bush 161 and engages onto a thread at its inside.
• the hinge 160 can be secured on the second segment 154, in order to secure the seasonal adjustment rotation axis S and the parallactic axis P at an angle to each other.
• Said adjustability can be used for compensating for the slightly varying path of the sun through the sky as perceived from planet earth during the seasons, so that the side of the plate 41 that is provided with photovoltaic cells 42 is at all times oriented perpendicular to the sunray direction C.
• the control arm 152 is provided with an automatic seasonal adjustment of the solar panel having a cycle of three hundred and sixty-five days.
• Said seasonal adjustment can for instance be realised by transferring the rotation steps of a step-wise drive via a worm wheel onto a gear wheel that is rotatably arranged on the second segment 154. A full rotation of the gear wheel takes three hundred and sixty-five steps of a day.
• the third segment 155 is mounted eccentrically on the gear wheel so that the position of the third segment 155 with respect to the second segment 154 during the rotation of the gear wheel in one year shifts to and fro in the longitudinal direction of the second segment 154.
• FIG. 5 shows a second alternative embodiment of the solar panel assembly 201.
• the solar panel assembly 201 comprises a lens 241, for instance a Fresnel-type lens, which is placed in the solar panel holder instead of the solar panel 4, as shown in figures 1-4.
• the lens 241 collects the substantially parallel sunrays from direction C and converges them in the focus F.
• the focus F in this example sits on the seasonal adjustment rotation axis S, but because of the adjustment of the lens characteristics can also be situated sideward with respect to the seasonal adjustment rotation axis S.
• the solar panel assembly 201 is provided with a solar energy convertor, for instance a Stirling engine or a solar collector 242 that is placed at a distance below the lens 241, for instance on the transition from the second segment 154 to the third segment 155.
• the solar collector 242 is situated near the focus F of the lens 241, in order to collect the sunrays converging in the focus F and to convert them into electric energy.
• FIG. 6 shows a solar panel assembly 301 according to a third embodiment of the invention, provided with a solar panel 304, and an alternative second solar panel holder 305 which ensures a continuous mechanical seasonal adjustment of the position of the main surface of the solar panel 304 in order to have it move along with the continuously varying direction C of the incoming sunrays during the course of the seasons.
• the solar panel assembly 301 just like the solar panel assemblies 1, 101, 201 according to the embodiments described above, comprises an underframe 302 and a first solar panel holder 303 having a circle-cylindrical, hollow basis 332 and two supports 333, 334 that are upright from the hollow basis 332. Within the circumference thereof, the hollow basis 332, between the upright supports 333, 334, defines a circular inner space L below the solar panel 304.
• the solar panel 304 is provided with an arched bracket 341 which in the extension of the main surface of the solar panel 304, between the first support 333 and the second support 334, includes an arched segment or a part of a circle, the centre of which coincides with the intersection B.
• the bracket has been replaced by a plate, which is situated in the extension of the main surface of the solar panel 304 and comprises an end edge which just like bracket 341, between the first support 333 and the second support 334, includes an arched segment or a part of a circle the centre of which coincides with the intersection B.
• the solar panel 304 with the main surface is in a position in which the bracket 341 is oriented downward, in the direction of the underframe 302.
• the solar panel assembly 301 is provided with a third support 350 upright in the direction of he bracket 341, and location-fixedly arranged on the underframe 302.
• the third support 350 within the circumference of the basis 332 of the first solar panel holder 303 spaced apart from the vertical rotation axis V bears a first axle 351 that is rotation-fixedly connected to the third support 350.
• the first axle 351 is at an oblique angle to the underframe 302 and has a centre line that passes through the intersection B and which coincides with the parallactic rotation axis P.
• the first axle 351 is provided with a first gear wheel 353.
• the first gear wheel 353 is rotation-fixedly connected to the first axle 351 and via the first axle
• 351 is rotation-fixedly connected to the third support 350.
• the solar panel assembly 301 further comprises a second solar panel holder 305 which from straight above, considered parallel to the vertical rotation axis V is fully within the circumference of the basis 332 of the first solar panel holder 303.
• the second solar panel holder 305 is provided with a control arm
• the control arm 352 which at a first outer end is rotatable about the first axle 351 and the parallactic rotation axis P is bearing mounted to the first axle 351 and which extends free from the first solar panel holder 303 from the first axle 351 to the solar panel 304. With a second outer end the control arm 352 is coupled to the solar panel 304 in a manner to be further described. From the coupling of the control arm 352 with the first axle 351 viewed in the direction of the underframe 302, the third support 350 is oriented away from the control arm 352 and is at an acute angle to the parallactic rotation axis P.
• control arm 352 is free from the third support 350, as a result of which the control arm 352 can freely rotate a full revolution of three hundred and sixty degrees about the parallactic rotation axis P.
• the third support 350 is arched and bends concentrically along with the control arm 352 about the intersection B. In this shape as well the control arm 352 runs free over a full revolution about the parallactic rotation axis P. Moreover the first axle 351 can be adjustably secured on the arched third support 350, in order to bring the first axle 351 in line with the parallactic rotation axis P which is at a different angle to the vertical rotation axis V at different locations on earth.
• Figure 7A and 7B show two moments in which the second solar panel holder 305 is in two ultimate positions.
• the second solar panel holder 305 together with the control arm 352 is in the highest position possible.
• the second solar panel holder 305 twelve hours after the situation in figure 7A, together with the control arm is in the lowest position possible.
• the first solar panel holder 303 has then rotated half a revolution about the vertical rotation axis V. In both positions it can be seen that the second solar panel holder 305 due to the shape of the third support 350 described above runs free from the third support 350, the first solar panel holder 303 and the solar panel 304, during a full revolution of three hundred and sixty degrees about the parallactic rotation axis P.
• the second solar panel holder 305 at one third of the length of the control arm 352 from the first axle 351, is provided with a second axle 354 that is bearing mounted in the control arm 352.
• the second axle 354 is at an angle of approximately eight degrees to the first axle 351.
• the centre line of the second axle 354, just like the centre line of the first axle 351, passes through the intersection B.
• the second axle 354 is provided with a second gear wheel 355 which in this example is larger than the first gear wheel 353.
• the teeth of the second gear wheel 355 and the first gear wheel 353 mesh with each other.
• the second axle 354 is provided with a third gear wheel 356 that is smaller than the second gear wheel 355 and that is coaxially and rotation- fixedly connected to the second gear wheel 355.
• the second solar panel holder 305 at two third of the length of the control arm 352 from the first axle 351 is provided with a third axle 357 that is bearing mounted in the control arm 352.
• the third axle 357 is at an angle of approximately sixteen degrees to the first axle 351.
• the third axle 357 is provided with a fourth gear wheel 358 which in this example is larger than the third gear wheel 356.
• the teeth of the fourth gear wheel 358 and the third gear wheel 356 mesh with each other.
• the third axle 357 is provided with a fifth gear wheel 371 that is smaller than the fourth gear wheel 358 and that is coaxially and rotation-fixedly connected to the fourth gear wheel 358.
• the second solar panel holder 305 is provided with fourth axle 370 that is rotatably bearing mounted in the control arm 352.
• the fourth axle 370 has a seasonal adjustment rotation axis S that is at an angle of approximately eight degrees to the third axle 357 and that is at an angle of approximately twenty-three and a half degrees to the first axle 351, which corresponds with the skewness of planet earth.
• the seasonal adjustment rotation axis S of the fourth axle 370 just like the centre line of the first axle 351, the second axle 354 and the third axle 357 passes through the intersection B.
• the fourth axle 370 is provided with a sixth gear wheel 372 which in this example is larger than the fifth gear wheel 371.
• the sixth gear wheel 372 is rotation fixedly connected to the fourth axle 370.
• the teeth of the sixth gear wheel 372 and the fifth gear wheel mesh with each other.
• the teeth of the first gear wheel 353, the second gear wheel 355, the third gear wheel 356, the fourth gear wheel 358, the fifth gear wheel 371 and the sixth gear wheel 372 are schematically shown in figures 7A and 7B. Although due to the small angular difference between the first axle 351, the second axle 354, the third axle 357 and the fourth axle 370 the teeth are not situated in the same plane, they sufficiently mesh with each other to be able to transfer forces occurring as a result of the mutual rotations of the gear wheels 353, 355, 356, 358 371, 372.
• gear wheels 353, 355, 356, 358, 371, 372 can be designed like conical gear wheels, in order to compensate the for difference in angle between the first axle 351, the second axle 354, the third axle 357 and the fourth axle 370.
• the first gear wheel 353, the second gear wheel 355, the third gear wheel 356, the fourth gear wheel 358, the fifth gear wheel 371 and the sixth gear wheel 372 together form a reduction wheel train.
• the sixth gear wheel 372 rotates in the same direction as the control arm 352. "Direction” in this case means the direction of the hands of a clock such as “anticlockwise” and “clockwise” and not a rotation about a common centre.
• the transmission ratio between the first gear wheel 353 and the sixth gear wheel 372 is 1:365.25, so that the sixth gear wheel 372 after 365.25 revolutions of the control arm 352 about the parallactic rotation axis P has rotated a full revolution of three hundred and sixty degrees with respect to the control arm 352.
• the sixth gear wheel 372 is then in the position again in which it was when the rotations were started.
• the transmission ratio of 1:365.25 corresponds with the average duration of a year in days, taking one intercalary day every four years into account.
• the control arm 352 After four years, including one leap year, the control arm 352 has rotated three hundred and sixty- five full revolutions and has once rotated three hundred and sixty-six full revolutions about the parallactic rotation axis P and the sixth gear wheel 372 has in fourteen hundred and sixty-one steps traversed four full revolutions of three hundred and sixty degrees with respect to the control arm 352.
• the reduction wheel train effects a fixed coherence between the rotation of the sixth gear wheel 372 about the seasonal adjustment rotation axis S and the rotation of the control arm 352 about the parallactic rotation axis P. Due to this fixed coherence the control arm 352 is kept in a certain position with respect to the parallactic rotation axis P, depending on the position of the sixth gear wheel 372 and its coupling to the bracket 341 to be further described.
• the second solar panel holder 305 is provided with a slipper 359.
• the slipper 359 is rotation-fixedly connected to the fourth axle 370 and therefore rotates along with the rotation of the sixth gear wheel 372.
• the slipper 359 comprises abutment surfaces with which the slipper 359 on both sides of the bracket 341 parallel to the horizontal rotation axis X engages onto the bracket 341.
• the slipper 359 is in this way rotation-fixedly coupled to the solar panel 304 with respect to the seasonal adjustment rotation axis S. In the arch direction of the bracket 341 the slipper 359 is able to slide in a curve concentrically about the intersection B over the bracket 341.
• the solar panel assembly 301 according to figure 6 as regards controlling and driving the rotation about the vertical rotation axis V, the horizontal rotation axis X and the parallactic rotation axis P works in substantially the same manner as the embodiments described above.
• the solar panel assembly 301 according to figure 6 differs from the embodiments described above in that the second solar panel holder 305 with the slipper 359 engages onto an outer edge of the solar panel 304, particularly onto bracket 341 of the solar panel 304, instead of in the intersection B.
• the bracket 341 is rotated away with respect to the third support 350 that is location-fixedly placed on the underframe 302.
• the bracket 341 of the solar panel 304 slides through the slipper 359.
• the second solar panel holder 305 which couples the solar panel 304 to the third support 350, as a result of the solar panel 304 rotating away, effects a rotation of the solar panel 304 about the horizontal rotation axis X within the rotation liberty applied by the control arm 352 about the parallactic rotation axis.
• the second gear wheel 355, the third gear wheel 356, the fourth gear wheel 358, the fifth gear wheel 371 and the sixth gear wheel 372 rotate or run as a group like a planetary gear about the circumference of the first gear wheel 353 functioning like a sun gear, wherein the control arm 352 limits the freedom of movement of the second gear wheel 355, the third gear wheel 356, the fourth gear wheel 358, the fifth gear wheel 371 and the sixth gear wheel 372 to a rotary motion with respect to the first gear wheel 353 about the parallactic rotation axis P.
• the sixth gear wheel 372 is rotated in the transmission ratio of 1:365.25 about the seasonal adjustment rotation axis S with respect to the control arm 352.
• the rotation of the sixth gear wheel 372 is transferred to the slipper 359 that is rotation-fixedly connected to the sixth gear wheel 372. Due to the changing angle of the slipper 359 to the control arm 352 the slipper 359 after each revolution engages at another angle and as a result also onto another point of the bracket 341, as a result of which the angle of inclination of the main surface of the solar panel 304 per revolution of a day during a whole year is continuously adapted to the changing position of the sun as a result of the seasons.
• An alternative embodiment of the solar panel assembly that is not shown comprises a wheel train setup having two gear wheels.
• the gear wheel rotates on the seasonal adjustment rotation axis S in the same direction as the control arm 352.
• the smallest gear wheel can in this example heave four teeth and the largest gear wheel fourteen hundred and sixty-one teeth, which results in a transmission ratio of 1:365.25.
• Set-ups that are also possible may include a different number of gear wheels or gear wheel sets, for instance more than six gear wheels.
• the solar panel assembly 301 described above therefore is extremely suitable to be used in combination with a solar panel provided with a solar boiler or a lens, in which it is of great importance that the substantially parallel sunrays from direction C can be accurately converged in a fixed focus in the vicinity of a solar energy convertor.

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• 2010
  • 2010-09-03 NL NL2005311A patent/NL2005311C2/nl not_active IP Right Cessation
• 2011
  • 2011-09-02 EP EP11757686.8A patent/EP2612083A2/en not_active Withdrawn
  • 2011-09-02 BR BR112013005087A patent/BR112013005087A2/pt not_active IP Right Cessation
  • 2011-09-02 AU AU2011296635A patent/AU2011296635A1/en not_active Abandoned
  • 2011-09-02 WO PCT/NL2011/050605 patent/WO2012030225A2/en active Application Filing
  • 2011-09-02 CN CN2011800424978A patent/CN103154635A/zh active Pending
• 2013
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