WO2018115942A1

WO2018115942A1 - Universal mount tripod solar tracker system

Info

Publication number: WO2018115942A1
Application number: PCT/IB2016/057954
Authority: WO
Inventors: Calvin Henry WOOSNAM
Original assignee: Woosnam Calvin Henry
Priority date: 2016-12-22
Filing date: 2016-12-22
Publication date: 2018-06-28

Abstract

In this Disclosure, the Inventor Calvin H. Woosnam, describes in detail the unique features of a Roof Top Single Axis or optionally Dual Axis Photo Voltaic Array Tracker System. The primary design defines a stepper motor gearbox designed with electronic position tracking feedback system as well as a weather responsive set of sensors system which can instruct an included control system to either position the solar panel array in a decreasing wind load position during high winds, and or also provide de-icing and snow collection on the photo voltaic panel array thereby in both cases keeping the alternate energy source active and safe while always collecting and converting solar energy to electricity. He also describes a Infrared tracking option that can target through cloud coverage to pinpoint target the sun's position insuring maximum solar ray detection and conversion to electrical output. The Inventor also discloses a effective way to eliminate ice or snow buildup which might cause structural or operational problems. The design also shows how a mixture of metal or composite components allowing weight to be kept down so that this Roof Top Single or Dual Axis Solar Tracker System can be applied to almost any sloped or flat horizontal roof, within most city, state, and even national area's building codes and where the sun angle reception is available the majority of the daylight hours. The Inventor also claims his system design incorporating a Direct Current Power Management System will increase in most cases, the energy absorption in areas of minimal sunlight maximizing energy output because of said described single or dual axis tracking systems with the addition of the Infrared Targeting Detector for pinpoint tracking. Thus optimizing electrical power output of an already minimally productive location and ability to maximize through constant perpendicular tracking of the Array to the Suns position. The Inventor also claims that by the incorporation of multiple installations using his design where excess power is constantly being injected back into the Grid for common use he has now created a Distributed Power Processing model. The Inventor has also described within this disclosure methods for both mounting of using this Tripod Tracker System on both ground mounts where weight is not problem and a roof top rail system that evenly distributes the weight securely attaching to these rails while removing the need for individual ballast weight normally needed to secure against wind loading.

Description

UNIVERSAL MOUNT TRIPOD SOLAR TRACKER SYSTEM

FIELD OF INVENTION

[0001]. The present invention relates jointly to the call or need for a safer roof top solar Photo Voltaic (PV) system that also gives the added benefit of tracking the sun's energy throughout the day optimizing power output. The majority of PV panel installations in the World rely on a non- moveable fixed PV panel systems. These static systems have been cited as a fire risk and have prompted new regulations to be adopted to correct the safety hazard these fixed low performance roof contact type PV systems present to Fire Safety.

BACKGROUD OF THE INVENTION

[0002]. Extensive scientific studies (see appendices in R&JO have been done that proves that perpendicular collection of solar energy is superior to angular reception of those rays. The Inventor here claims and can show that a number of factors account for why fixed panels on a flat or sloped roof refract most light only maximizing their rated efficiency near noon (s Pig._{„ :}A) or high sun each day. Secondly, these fixed panels cannot detect or convert power from the sun first timings after sunrise or just before sunset. The angle of incidence to the panel's surface cause light to not enter the photo electric cells making up the panel, hence little or no output.

[0003]. Many scientific studies have shown that tracking the sun's current position from Sunrise to Sunset with a PV panel or even a liquid tube filled thermal panel will increase the performance of solar energy to electrical or thermal conversion by as much as 15% - 20%. It can also be proven from multiple scientific sources that Dual Axis Tracking, where both vertical motion change (seasonal) and horizontal arcing that can be tracked and adjusted automatically, are more efficient (see Ha ie M ) than Single Axis Tracking systems, where only the east - west daily sunrise to sunset sun tracking is possible. [0004]. The Inventor's interpretation of the recent changes in Building Codes brought about by the earlier changes in the Call by National Association of Fire Chiefs and the National Fire Protection Code NFPA 70 regulation making Fire Code Rating 'B' and 'C rated devices no longer being permitted for 'B' and 'C rated fixed PV panels installation is to raise them off the roof for clearance (thereby complying with Fire Code Class A Standards) and for further to try and optimize the solar energy reception. The Class A type of fixed panel installation also has the ability to have the panels removed and due to their raised status must have more space allowed between the PV panel installation to prevent shadowing in early or late sunlight hours. This type of array has recently been deemed by the US Fire Marshall's office to be Class A Fire Rating.

[0005]. The earlier type surface mounted fixed panels are deemed Class B Fire Rated or Class C Fire Rated. The Class B & C Rated devices fail to provide access, pathways and smoke ventilation (IFC 605.1 1 .3) as adopted by the NFPA 70 regulations and called for by the National Fire Chiefs Office, (see

for further information. Currently there is legislation at various municipal and state/province levels of government Authorities Having Jurisdiction (AHJs), to have the Local Civic Building Inspectors enforce this new classification and barring without "grandfathering in" both Class B Fire Rated and Class C Fire Rated panel installations which relates to flat roof mounted or attached panel installations, as illegal and therefore must be corrected. See also the regional Orange County California code update Guideline Fire Safety Elements Solar Photovoltaic Systems July 17,2008 Rev:1 /1 Ιλ 0 jhtfo /vAvw.oda.oro/ uDjoads/odf PhotovojlaicGujdejjrie.Ddf)

[0006]. The Inventor will disclose that upcoming, and currently in effect in many areas, regulatory changes, these regulations came on the end of the Inventor's attempt to create a more efficient and regulated Solar PV Tracking System standard, where he currently sits on the both the CSA International subcommittees and UL ULC as well as Intertek regulatory subcommittees drafting and assembling these standards helping to draft these standard codes that will define the conditions that will be needed to meet the current Building Codes and the yet provide for the demand for lower cost solar energy by raising efficiency of solar energy to electrical energy conversion.

[0007]. The Inventor within this disclosure will similarly show how different stages within the solar energy collection system, and introducing that in a usable format for the home, office, or business, can be optimized for greater through put and conversion of solar to electrical energy and that the performance characteristics of this system exceed all other currently marketed or disclosed solar PV systems. The added performance of the Photo Voltaic panel or tracker gains can be reduced by the losses incurred in the DC voltage path components or the input and conversion to the final Inverter output stages which will be addressed by this disclosure.

[0008]. The Inventor will not claim or attempt to take credit for the

advanced performance of the current Mono Crystalline PV panel design but will show that by changing the top insulative layer of glass on a Mono Crystalline or any other PV panel with a more pure silica glass, will enhance its performance in electrical output and in doing so prevent the deterioration of local generated power being drained off each covered cell in a semiconductor type resistive junction created by impurities in the glass.

[0009]. The Inventor will also bring to the reader's attention that large sail type structures like the effect of PV panels raised higher and mounted on buildings are subject to higher level of wind loading and therefore subject to increase weather related damage. The Inventor concluded that decreasing the exposed area to these winds or providing a counter action that minimizes the wind forces is required.

[00010]. The Inventor will show that that using a standard preprogrammed stepper motor design gear box system, or alternately a hydraulic arm actuated system, that he is able to move the accompanying mounting frame for Photo Voltaic Panels in a single or dual arc pattern to track the sun from sunrise to sunset regardless of the changing seasons while keeping the top surface of the PV panels always near perpendicular to the Sun's incoming rays even through clouds optimizing infrared absorption.

[00011]. The Inventor will show that that where tracker systems make the most difference in solar energy conversion is in the higher northern or lower southern latitudes, where also the weather conditions can be more extreme temperature wise so the inventor has included an option for automatic defrosting, or de-icing and melting snow off the tracking system and attached PV arrays by using a simple, yet readily available, thermal tape system that keeps the tracker system always just above freezing, thereby auto defrosting or preventing snow from normally accumulating and diminishing the power output of the PV Tracker system or any PV system for that matter.

[00012]. The inventor will show that how the addition of an optionally

included defined optical targeting system, minor axis alignment corrections keep the solar tracker array always perpendicular to the sun even when the sun is behind varying quantities of cloud cover. The use of infrared sensors has been shown to detect and target the sun even through storm clouds with 50mm downpour and still allow power generation. This proves which like the human eye that can tell the difference between day and night, the solar tracker can now capture this minimal energy even through cloud cover because the angle of incidence is perpendicular to the PV panel surface. With the current Mono Crystalline PV panels the spectrum sensitivity is wider thus is able to detect more solar wavelengths.

[00013]. The Inventor will show that how without significantly increasing cost of the PV tracker system that the weight of a higher performance solar tracking system can be kept down using a mixture of metal components that maximizes performance and endurance factors but drops the combined weight down to a level that even with PV panels loaded the tracking array when sitting on a roof top with tripod legs supported and anchored by a flexible ballasting weight system the quantity of which is determined by local wind conditions, conforms to most buildings codes around the world for roof loading regulations in building codes.

[00014]. The Inventor will show that that by keeping the profile low enough on the main array of PV panels this can drop the forces exerted by winds and reduce shadow effect, which is caused by increase side profile blocking rays to adjacent nearby other tracking array systems, thus maintaining a relatively small foot print size per module, therefore maximum power generating capacity per square foot unit of measure on a roof and accomplish a PV targeting system that can maximise the reception of solar energy.

[00015]. The inventor will also claim his method of monitoring the position of a solar tracking system by use of electronic feedback from the stepper motor gearbox assembly or alternately a hydraulic arm positioning system that he can read the current position of the solar tracker system and also command the solar tracker system to move to a pre-assigned position for servicing or for weather related protection thereby reducing wind drag in a storm, all the time still maintaining power output.

[00016]. The Inventor will show how the accurate positioning of the PV Solar Tracking system can be improved dramatically by assuring a perpendicular position at all times to the incoming rays of the sun can be achieved with an optional add on Infrared Solar Targeting System, which due to its design and components used, can even maintain this perpendicular relationship with the current sun's position even when the sun is not visible through layers of clouds overhead.

[00017]. The Inventor will show that how both on his Single Axis Roof Top Solar Tracker, and his Dual Axis Roof Top Solar Tracker, and his already marketed 49 Panel Dual Axis Solar Tracker, that he can react to weather changes and relay and report weather changes at any installation by use of an optional attached 'Weather Meter System mounted to one or more the solar trackers present at that site, where the information gained from this device allow electronic control systems to take appropriate evasive action with that solar tracker installation. This weather meter will be shown to collect wind direction, wind velocity, and temperature both of the air and dew point as it relates to the equipment installed. ($m Flaw® 2- Wm m Dmwlnu) >F THE INVENTION

[00033]. It is the objective of this invention to provide a more efficient

transfer of energy from the Sun to PV Panels and a solution to an energy crisis, climate change, and also a concern of Fire Chiefs for a safer more efficient way to generate electrical power through Photo Voltaic (PV) panels. This Invention raises the density of power per square foot or meter as measured by kilowatt hour output as compared to fixed PV panel installations that quite often are only rated in watts or output.

[00034]. The design parameters requirements of this Invention required that it withstand wind loading which is normally higher on an unprotected roof top, as long as it has good sunrise and sunset look angles and the remainder of its arc travel from east to west is unobstructed the opportunity for increased power is well worth placing on the roof. Less natural shadowing is present as well. This requirement led the Inventor to add a Wind Sensor (see Rg#14 item G).

[00035]. The design parameters also had to consider the end application being primarily commercial building flat roofs so as not to cause too much shadow effect on east and west position of the sun where angle of the incoming rays now approach horizontal, consequently the height of one tracker, or structure, can cast long shadows. This can result in ineffective gain desires by mounting tracking arrays too close to one another while trying to get more units in a given space. The answer is to focus on width rather than height in the final design parameters and staggering the PV modules. A 2 Panel wide by 5 Panel high

configuration maximized the inter spacing requirements, (see Rg#10

[00036]. The latest design of PV panels is also a factor dictating final

design configuration when height restriction is one of the considerations of solar tracking and rays pickup. The current panels are 1956mm (77 inches) long^*992mm (39 inches) wide and 50mm (2 inches) thick (see Fiq# 1 1 item D). Height restrictions over a roof may be also a concern for both aesthetic and city ordinances. Under the Inventors design this was kept to a minimum by horizontally orienting the panels.

[00037]. The horizontal orientation of the panels allowed for maximum of 5 panels laying horizontally wide now becoming 4953mm (195 inches) high, to make the classification of this Roof Top Mounted Solar Tracking System to equivalent to an roof mounted antenna system and not separate or new roof top structure thereby increasing the locations this design can be installed.

[00038]. Movement of attaching ribs (Figure 10 item b) as shown in (see figure #5 item b^'j allows for different size older panels as well as newer larger panels. The Ribs directly and rigidly attach to the center shaft (see Figure 10 item c) by moveable clips (see Figure 1 1 b item b) which attach the PV panels. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[00039]. In Figure #1 the Inventor shows scientific proof widely available that Single and

Dual axis tracking systems provide significantly more output then Fixed panel installations.

[00040]. In Figure #2 the Inventor shows how a 3^rd party already available weather meter can be used for weather analysis and response by the Solar Tracker System

[00041]. In Figure #3 the Inventor shows the 10 Panel PV Solar Tracker Array Drawing basic information.

[00042]. In Figure #4 the Inventor shows detailed drawing of Linear Stepper Actuator (a) to convert the 10 Panel Roof Top Solar Tracker from Single Axis to Dual Axis capability as well as the leg adjustment (b), tilt foot design(c), and Control Signal Junction Box (d).

[00043]. In Figure #5 the Inventor shows Panels & Rotate Bearing Leg Mount Bracket (a) which allows the adjustment of the rear support legs and rotation of the center support shaft and can be used in pairs to also mount the Linear Stepper Actuator described above.

[00044]. In Figu e #6 the Inventor shows Infrared Targeting System Option which assists in targeting the sun's rays even through clouds.

[00045]. In Figure #7 the Inventor shows the Top Down View of Infrared Targeting Dome and Lens assembly used in Infrared Targeting System.

[00046]. In Hgure.#6 the Inventor shows Lucite Light Collection Lenses for calculating precised sun angle.

[00047]. In Figure_,#9 the inventor shows his solution the ESEC Thermal Tape De-Icing

System for removing ice and snow from Photo Voltaic systems tracking or fixed configurations.

[00048]. in F|gure.#10 the inventor shows the stamped metal version of Purlin rails which hold the PV Panel mounting.

[00049]. In FigurejrM the inventor shows detail of the specialty galvanized folded rail type

Purlin rail for PV Panel mounting with detail also of clips and associated brackets with cross bracing and example of placed PV Panel. Adjustable positioning of Purlin Rails insures both smaller Poly Crystalline PV panels and larger Mono Crystalline PV panels can be accommodated.

[00050]. In Figure #1 1 b the inventor shows an alternate design of the Purlin rails for PV mounting.

[00051]. In £igure.#12 the inventor shows Rear Leg Detail of Tripod Tracker including bearing mounts for center shaft.

[00052]. In Figure #13 the inventor shows detail of an Optional Latitude Swivel Bracket which allows more latitude adjustment without changing rear legs of the Tripod

Tracker.

[00053]. In £igure_„#l4 the inventor shows Tripod Tracker Controller Connections Diagram with legend as to actual connectors.

[00054]. In Figure #15 the inventor shows an actual Image Picture of Connections to

Controller with legend as to actual connectors.

[00055]. In Figure #16 the inventor shows the Inclinometer & Limit Switch Placement

Detail as well as the Controller Box placement

[00056]. In Figure #17 the inventor shows an assembled Tripod Tracker with Mono PV

Panels loaded.

[00057]. In F¾ure.#18 the inventor shows the l-Beam layout structure for roofs [00058]. The Inventor after seeing the lower power efficiency of fixed PV panel installations decided the industry needed the higher performance tracking systems that were now appearing on the ground, however the ground mounted units required concrete bases and were in themselves made of heavy weight steel therefore not suitable for building roof tops where weight is a restriction.

[00059]. The space on a roof is not at premium as compared with ground or field mounted trackers. So using the rules of spacing for ground mounted trackers, reduced height was the answer for roof mount and use of aluminum or carbon fibre type materials over heavy weight steel was required wherever possible.

[00060]. The Inventor also following a past history of 14 years as a Fire Loss Investigator was aware of concern by Fire Chiefs of multiple jurisdictions that fixed panel installations of solar panels was

representing a significant safety hazard to First Responders when attempting to climb on a roof or any attempts to cut holes in the roof for venting which is a common practice when fighting an premise fire. They had also expressed this as Classification Rating for different methods of mounting fixed panels as falling into a classification of either Type A, B, or C. Where A, and B restrict in some way roof access and only type raised or removable were deemed acceptable.

[00061]. This concern over Fire Rating Classification of Trackers was

brought to the concern of the IEC and CSA International and they have now jointly endorsed this Classification system and instituted new Solar Tracker Standards (see CSA C22.2 No.321 ) as well as Photovoltaic Standards (see CSA / IEC No.62817 / IEC No.62108) guidelines for a more regulated and controlled Solar Industry.

[00062]. The Inventor along with joint development with a engineering person helped in the prototyping, and was done to determine the least wind loading design and the best mounting method. Constant changes in the configuration and testing led to the following design. A tripod type mount (see Figure 3) quickly became the best mounting method, overcoming minor and sometimes major surface height differences experienced on a roof as well matching the latitude average tilt position was also a concern. Providing for latitude difference also makes the marketplace or applicability of the Roof Top Tracker as broad as possible.

[00063]. The Inventor also when considering weight loading for roof tops and primarily flat roof tops as were more adaptable to solar installations decided the easy way to not stress roof weight loading he chose to first lay l-Beam rails (see Figure 18 item a) spaced according to the distance needed between the rear support legs and front pivotal post. With sharing these lateral rails and periodically cross bracing these rails to further distribute the weight the Inventor was able to meet almost all weight restriction conditions.

[00064]. The Inventor also states that within this rail attachment and weight distribution system as defined here within this disclosure that the rails must be suspended above the original roof surface by broad support spacers which adequately carry the weight and distribute it collectively across the roof surface and made or a non rotting or eroding substance such as a vinyl or plastic block (see Figure 18 item b ).

[00065]. The Inventor also chose to make a center spine or pivot shaft which became the central pivot point supporting the entire mechanism of steel rather than aluminum construction. The decision, while keeping height down, was to mount five (5) rows of two (2) panels each up and along this central steel spine (see Figure 3 item b and 3 item d),

[00066]. The lateral support of the Panels had to keep the variation in size of older type Poly Crystalline type smaller panels adaptable to, while properly supporting the more efficient and larger new style Mono Crystalline panels. This meant the cross mounted support arms (see Figure 3 item f also see Figure 1 1 b item c ) where the panels attach to the main axis, these arms had to be made moveable and adjustable in both width and length dimensions and positioning.

[00067]. The legs of the Roof Top Solar Tracker are configured as a tripod and terminate in flat plates with four (4) bolt holes (see Figure 5 item c ) designed to attach to 1 , 2 or 3 x 24 inch square plain concrete patio stones, each weighing 60lbs. In high wind threat areas the installer puts more ballast weight on, in less wind load threat or roof conditions that restrict higher weight loading of the roof, then a single 24 inch square patio stone is used, (see Figure 5 item f )Standard ¾ inch diameter, 3-6 inch long bolts are used to secure the concrete pads. With the use of these wide concrete pads weight is spread and also sand bags can be added for further protection during hurricane type winds.

[00068]. The primary center leg or post (see Figure 3 item e), raises the Stepper motor gearbox assembly so that the center support shaft tube made out of galvanized steel rotates and supports the panel attachment arms and finally on the underside the rear support legs or optionally a linear stepper motor which is used to move the attachment point for the rear support legs. Full weatherproofing and water type seals are used on all parts both attached and moving for maximum weather protection.

[00069]. The PV Panels attach to multiple Ribs (see Figure that also

attach to the rotatable center shaft. The attachment is secure and the ribs rotate directly with the center shaft, thereby tilting the panels towards the sun to keep the surface of the panels always perpendicular to the current position of the sun as controlled by the Controller (see figure 16 }. These Ribs are made of welded and stamped aluminum keeps weight down and yet by their design giving maximum lateral support to the PV Panels. Clips (figure 10 item d) grab the outer edge of each panel and securely hold the PV Panels to the Rib. Sliding the Clips allows for variable size of PV Panels to be used in this tracker.

[00070]. The rear two (2) support legs (see figure 3 item b)are adjustable in length and terminate in a metal plate where, like the front post described previously, has bolt holes for attaching the ballast weights (concrete 24 inch patio stones).

[00071]. Alternatively the front and Rear Support Legs with their large base foot (see figure 12b item A) can also be either bolted directly to an I- Beam (see figure 12b item B ) roof-top weight distribution system or they can directly be attached to in the ground concrete 12 inch deep, 8" x 8" cast in ground footings (see figure .

[00072]. The overlapping upper and lower section (see figure 4 item b) of the right angled aluminum legs are bolted together using different holes depending on the size of the panel or a sliding channel which allows total customized sizing, to allow for sliding and setting a rough adjustment between 36 degrees and 53 degrees (angle of the center pivot shaft (see figure 3 item d & figure 4 item ^relative to the ground or horizontal level surface) with the optional Linear Stepper Actuator.

[00073]. The cross bracing PV panel support arms as shown individually (see figure 10 item b) are affixed as described above to the center rotatable center shaft, driven by the processor controlled rotational stepper motor and gearbox assembly at the bottom of the Array. The cross bracing Ribs (figure 10 item b and later in figure 1 1 item a) show how the PV Panels are both attached to these cross brace Ribs, but also how front to rear lateral mid line support (see figure 1 1 item b) is given to the PV Panels (see figure 1 1 item d).

[00074]. The cross bracing, moveable PV Panel support Rib arms can be moved accordingly to match the varying width experienced between older Poly Crystalline PV panels and the newer wider and longer Mono Crystalline PV panel design. This is shown in the movement pattern (see fjgyreJJJien e) up-down arrows, before the clamping is made secure to the rotatable center shaft (see figure 1 1 item c). Reference figure 1 1 iltfili shows the variable length ability of the cross bracing PV panel support Rib Arms.

[00075]. The upper mounting point of the rear legs terminate in a clamp attachment point (see Figure 3~h) normally attached to the center pivot shaft, this clamp position allows the center pivot shaft to rotate but stops the clamp from moving up or down the center pivot shaft. The clamp can also be duplicated lower and used then to mount the Dual Tracking

Linear Stepper Motor unit (see figure 4 item a).

[00076]. The inventor realized that during the design of the rear legs and to accommodate different location latitudes, that a rough location could be done with sliding or telescoping the legs, but a seasonal variation could also be added by shifting the attachment point that these rear legs attached to. So by taking two of the rotational center shaft bearings (see figure 5 item a) instead of one, the inventor could now mount a Linear Stepper Motor drive assembly (see figure 4 item a), a readily available 36 to 42 inch long linear drive motor assembly available on the market, now attaching the two support legs ( see figure 3 item b & fiourefS item b) to the moving carriage positioned on the underside of the linear motor unit, the elevation angle of the legs to array could be adjusted through electronic control to make this previously Single Axis Tracker , now into a fully Dual Axis Tracker system.

[00077]. Following up on the design above optionally two (2) of these

rotating clamps ( see Figure 5 item a) can be used to attach the upper side of a Linear Actuator (see figure 4 item a) where the moving carriage block, now becomes the attachment point for the existing rear support legs. Electrical connection to the Linear Stepper Actuator (see Figure 4) is run down the center support shaft and joins with cables entering the rotating stepper motor and gearbox assembly in a Junction Box (see

[00078]. Optionally the installer can install a Wind Meter (see Figure 2) that will relay/send back digital data as to wind direction and velocity as well as temperature. The Wind Meter is physically attached to the underside of the top PV panel in the array. The cable from the Wind Meter runs down the back and side of the center support shaft and meets up with junction box and other cables located (see figure 3 item g ) to the underside of the Stepper Motor Gearbox assembly (see Figure 3 item e).

[00079]. The data received back from the Wind Meter (see Figure 2) allows the Control System running the PV Array System to make logic decisions based on wind velocity, wind direction and temperature combined with positional data from the feedback unit on the Stepper Motor Gearbox Assembly (see Figure 4 item e) that can preposition, or override the current tracking position that is refined by the Optional Infrared Targeting System (see Figure 6), and command the rotational position of the Center Support Shaft to either move the panels to a pure horizontal position, or a near vertical orientation position based on wind speed and direction, calculating the least wind load or drag position for the panels to be in, relative to the wind speed and velocity at that moment. When the threat is removed the default command will return the Stepper Motor Gearbox (see Figure 4 item d) to the nearest rotational position the

Stepper Motor Gearbox assembly was in prior to the override and automatically adjusting for any movement of the sun to keep the panels perpendicular to the sun.

[00080]. After any override command to the Stepper Motor Gearbox (see Figure 4 item d) for repositioning either caused by inclement weather or a command which puts the panels in a servicing position, the return command attempts to return to the last known position but then calls on the Optional Infrared Targeting System (see Figure #6) and fine adjustment back into the correct track of the sun, thereby returning to maximum power output tracking.

[00081]. The Infrared Targeting System (see Figure #6) is basically a stamped metal domed structure with also a stamped metal bottom bowl as shown in (see Figure #6 item a) where a bottom tab (see Figure #6 DLD mounts between PV Panel gaps on the center line of Array Assembly directly perpendicular to the PV panel surface and in line with the Center Pivot Shaft of the Tracker Assembly point the Infrared Targeting System assembly directly at the Sun perpendicular to the PV panels.

[00082]. The Top of the Infrared Targeting System's stainless steel - rust resistant metal dome is a molded acrylic casting of an optical lens which takes the suns rays and when the sun is perpendicular to the domed area, the lens focuses at focal length a ½" - ¾", while an inch lower it is now less than a 1/16" / 1 mm diameter, spot beam at the same height as the Photo transistor receiver modules (see Figure-β item c), immediately at a NULL point (see figure 6 item h) between the N-E-W-S receptors. Any movement of the sun not perpendicular to the Infrared Tracker System will cause the spot beam from the acrylic dome to go off center "NULL" point and proportionately go outwards towards the perimeter illuminating one of the Lucite™ quadrants and subsequently the associated photo transistor sensor modules which uses the Lucite™ contact surface that channels that light to the specific photo transistor which is in turn connected to the appropriate tracking control for repositioning the array.

[00083]. The Lucite™ modules (see Figure 6 item c) channel the light beam focused on the Targeting Lens (see Figure 6-b) in the Infrared Dome (see Figure 6 item a) and dependant on the angular position of the sun relative to the perpendicular position of the Infrared Targeting System detector, this beam of light exiting the underside of the lens will fall proportionately either directly down on a Null Zone (see Figure 6 item h or Figure 7 item d) area or if the sun is off perpendicular it will proportionately cast this spot beam to 1 of four quadrants, (see Fia iS.6 item c) each covered proportionately by a Lucite™ block (see Figure 8 item c and Figure 8 item a) where the lower focus point of the output of this conducted light now exits in a spot beam attached or focused at a infrared wide bandwidth photo detector assembly. The target area (see Figure 6 item h) of the Targeting lens will always dependant on the sun's angle of incidence strike through this optical assembly somewhere on 1 of the 4 N-E-S-W detector sensors or if in precise perpendicular position the beam will strike the Null Zone area ( see Figure 6 "NULL" ) where either a target sensor can be mounted or alternatively no sensor is mounted, in either way the control system for the directional control motors attached to the Array will cease motion and the PV Panel now remains target perpendicular to the sun. [00084]. The moment the Sun moves from the centered accurate position as described above, the affecting quadrant sector (see Figure 8 item c or Figure 8 item a) will be energized with sun light, sensed on quadrant sensor and the PV Array will then cause the appropriate action of the tracking motor control system to make the ½ to 1 degree normal correction. The ½-1 degree position is equivalent to the Null Zone (see figure 6 item h) at which time the drive movement is then ceased.

[00085]. Should other later described control inputs, such as Wind override or service positioning of the array, cause the PV Array to change position to some other position other than the Targeted Sun position, then when those systems release control back to the Automatic system, the Infrared Targeting (see figure 6 ) will take over and direct the tracker motor system to reposition the PV Array to the preferred perpendicular position relative to that moment in time.

[00086]. If the Infrared Targeting System is triggered due to override from one of the other previously described systems, and the Sun is not visible, or has not risen or has past set, then the PV Array is instructed to return to the preset Morning Sun Rise position. Events such as Solar Eclipse are designed into the reaction time of the tracker control electronics to avoid any hunting motion for short duration missing sunlight conditions.

[00087]. The Wind Meter System (see figure 2 item a) is mounted on the top leading edge of the PV Array Tracker assembly and actually fastens to underside of one of the Top Photo Voltaic Panels mounting frames.

[00088]. The formed metal bracket is adjusted to keep the Wind Meter Aileron (see Figure 2 item a), which points in the direction of the oncoming prevailing wind, and the system perpendicular regardless of the latitude setting of the PV Arrays. The attached wind cup section (see figure 2 item d) also measures wind speed. It is not necessary to have multiple Wind Meter Systems installed on each PV Array Tracker as the digital output control from one (1 ) Wind Meter System (see figure 2 item a) is connected to the RS-485 control system wiring running between all trackers whether Single Axis Roof types or Dual Axis ground tracking arrays and therefore shared to a common control system.

[00089]. The Control System input or control sequence is event driven and routed to each PV Tracker Array system through the incoming and outgoing power and signal junction box (see figure 5 item cO. The Event is a signal level sent relative to Wind Speed and Wind Direction combined also with a Temperature component. Should the wind speed go over 75km per hour then the Command system will check direction and through a preloaded position coordinates instruct either the Single (or dual) Axis Roof Top Tracking Systems (which are much more prone to wind on a roof) or the Ground Based Dual Axis Solar Trackers used primarily in solar farm applications. This pre-programmed position will allow the PV Array assembly to move the PV Array into the least wind load position slicing into the wind rather than the entire PV Array acting as a massive sail catching the full force of the wind. This allows the PV Array Tracking System to withstand much higher winds while reducing loading,

[00090]. The Wind Meter System (see Figure 2) as mentioned connects through the RS-485 control system and Overrides all automatic tracking controls and relies on the pre-known positions of the tracker motors that position each PV Array Tracker.

[00091 ]. The ESEC Thermal Tape De-Icing System (see Figure 9) is an automatic low cost protective system designed to be applicable to both Single Axis Trackers and Dual Axis Trackers and even Fixed PV Panel installations that prevents weight or performance damaging ice and snow build up on flat panel systems (see Figure 3 item a) that would reduce the PV panels output. The increase snow load combined with additional equipment loading of these mounting systems on a roof can exceed the load carrying capacity sooner of most roofs in heavy snowfall areas.

[00092]. With the ESEC Thermal Tape De-Icing System (see figure 9) thermostatic action of the thermal tape system (see figure 9) has no power draw during normal times and only comes on when the panel surface (see figure 9 item b) reaches freezing levels, at which time the heat thermostatically controlled function (see figure 9 item o

automatically turns on until temperature and ultimate all snow or ice is removed, then automatically shuts off, afterwards on pulsing to maintain temperature.

Claims

[00018]. The Inventor will show a solution on how the detriments of snow and ice on solar tracking system, or even on a fixed Photo Voltaic panel, which can even cause structural or safety problems if the load is allowed to collect and how this can be reduced significantly or even eliminated by the Inventor's disclosed designs making a safer and efficient solution than using manual labor to remove ice and snow in winter or northern and elevated installations.

[00019]. The Inventor will show with the performance enhancing

components such as the Infrared Targeting System and the Wind Meter System connected to a common communications buss the Control System can not only use the information collected for protection of the Solar Tracking System as a whole but also optimize its positioning to maximize the conversion of solar energy to electrical energy possible at this time of technology development.

[00020]. #1 The Inventor states and claims, which anyone with the

common knowledge of person within this field would acknowledge, that he originated the first design and requirement for a single axis PV tracker system that could be roof mounted and meet both current Fire Codes and Building Codes present at various levels of Authorities Having Jurisdiction (AHJs).

[00021]. #2 The Inventor claims, that any lay person with basic mechanical and structural knowledge will agree that the proposed design concept and variations permitted within this design constitute a automatic preprogrammed tracking system that is capable of tracking solar movement so as to optimize the closest perpendicular striking direction of the sun's rays on the attached Photo Voltaic panel surface, thereby as scientific proof will cause an increase in the solar to electrical output of this PV tracker system. ( s Figure I ) and could also increase the output of Thermal Panels if mounted on this tracker.

[00022]. #3 The Inventor claims that the two (2) variations or options within this disclosed design, where the Inventor adds an addition linear drive motor (see Figure 4 item A) to the upper pivot point mounting system bearing and the central rotator shaft allows this Single Axis Tracker to become the first Roof Top Dual Axis Tracking design that follows the suns solar rays providing perpendicular striking of solar rays throughout the year with dual axis movement control.

[00023]. #4 The Inventor claims that any lay person with basic electromechanical and structural knowledge will agree that by adding a Linear Actuator (see Figure #6 ) to a single axis PV tracker design incorporated in this PV tracker design, that he can also now adjust vertical or seasonal tracking and more accurate daily targeting always focusing on perpendicular interception of sun's rays maximizing solar to electrical conversion thereby becoming a Dual Axis Solar Tracking System. [00024]. #5 The Inventor claims that any lay person with basic electromechanical and structural knowledge will agree that with the

incorporation within the Photo Voltaic Tracking System of a Solar Targeting System, (see Figure #6 ) as defined by the Inventor that exact position of the Sun even through clouds can be targeted for maximum solar energy conversion.

[00025]. #6 The Inventor claims that any lay person with basic electromechanical and structural knowledge will agree that for use in colder climates where ice and snow are present and may cause interference with solar tracker performance, he has devised an inexpensive, low cost de-icing, and snow removal, Defrost Option (see Figure #9 item B) that can be added to all trackers mentioned in this disclosure. The thermostatically controlled device sits idle drawing no power normally until the temperature conditions trigger a sensor causing defrosting heat to be created travel through the frame and attachments keeping the tracker always just above freezing temperature.

[00026]. #7 The Inventor claims that any lay person with basic electromechanical and structural knowledge will agree that with the use of adjustable rear legs (see Fig#4 item B) and primary weight bearing strengthened center front mount bearing leg, the rear height and subsequently angle of incidence of the attached PV panels on the Tracking Array mechanism can be adjusted by a variable length or simply angling the leg system hence making this an adjustable leg configuration and therefore account for latitude differences encountered during installation in a wider range of areas extending from 53 degrees north or south to 0 degrees Equator, tropics latitude, thereby maximizing the efficiency of this design over wider area.

[00027]. #8 The Inventor claims that any lay person with basic electromechanical and structural knowledge will agree that with multiple applications of this invention and other yet to be disclosed solar tracking systems, combined with his definition contained within this patent disclosure that when multiple units are installed all generating more power than the installation client requires and excess power is through all units exported back to the local power grid, then the Inventor here claims that he has defined and created a Distributed Power

[00028]. #9 The Inventor claims that any lay person with basic electromechanical and structural knowledge will agree that with addition of a Linear Stepper Motor Actuator (see R¾f 4 item A) to the underside of the central support beam of this Single Axis Roof Mount Solar Tracker System it changes from being a single axis tracker with course sun tracking ability, to now be a dual axis solar tracker system having a very refined ½ - 1 degree accuracy throughout the year and season and being the first tripod mount, non-roof penetrating Dual Axis Roof Mount Solar Tracker System. [00029]. #10 The Inventor claims that any lay person with basic electromechanical and structural knowledge will agree, that by making the cross bracing arms (see Fig#1 1 item A or optionally see Fio#1 1 b design) that attached to a center rotatable shaft, and making the moveable before firmly clamping to that rotatable shaft he can accommodate the difference in PV panel width both current Poly Crystalline type panels and in the future Mono Crystalline type panels matching the width required for installation of those panels on this Single, now Dual Axis Roof Solar Tracking System.

[00030]. #11 The Inventor claims that any lay person with basic electromechanical and structural knowledge will agree, that by installing multiple units of this Roof Top Tracking Array System herein disclosed and maximizing power conversion through his DC Power Management System herein disclosed, and furthermore injecting the resulting converted AC energy back into the electrical Grid where all power is now shared, he has created a Distributed Power Processing System© which ultimately becomes fault tolerant.

[00031]. #12 The Inventor claims that any lay person with basic electromechanical and structural knowledge will agree, by using a 2 part plastic bearing (see Fiqf 12 item B) encased in 2 half moon shaped brackets (see Fig#12 item A) for the center shaft to facilitate rotation of the center shaft the inventor has created a low cost "bearing" surface that can be easily replaced and maintained should the bearing surface wear, during normal maintenance procedures.

[00032]. #13 The Inventor claims that any lay person with basic electromechanical and structural knowledge will agree, that with the complex motions of the Tripod Tracker design as described herein, the inventor has created a comprehensive Control Box (see Fi¾#14 connection points, and see Fig#15 photo oi connected wires) system for all electrical connections associated with the Tripod Tracker including a self awareness GPS location device (see Fiqf 14 item F)and weather or Wind Sensor (see Fio#14 see item G ).