SOLAR TRACKER DRIVE MOUNT

Abstract

A sun-tracking solar drive of a solar energy system can include mounting hardware supporting the solar drive with support components of the same type of that used for supporting other components of system. The support components can be in the form of pile driven members, which optionally can be connected together for sharing the loads associated with the solar drive. The solar drive can be mounted to the support components with an adjustable mount member, configured to allow an orientation of the solar drive to be adjusted.

Description

TECHNICAL FIELD

Embodiments of the subject matter described herein relate generally to solar energy systems which include drive systems for sun-tracking, solar energy collecting devices.

BACKGROUND

Some larger solar collector installations include arrays of sun-tracking, solar power collector assemblies. Such assemblies can be used in conjunction with photovoltaic modules, concentrated photovoltaic modules, as well as concentrated thermal solar collector devices.

Sun-tracking solar energy systems include hardware for automatically adjusting the position of the collector devices to track the sun as it moves across the sky. Some known systems include parallel rows of solar energy collection devices supported on pivoting shafts, known as “torque tubes.” The torque tubes are pivoted to tilt the solar energy collection devices so as to track the movement of the sun.

Further, some systems (a.k.a. “ganged” systems) include a reduced number of drive devices, for example, where each drive device is connected to a plurality of parallel torque tubes. Such systems can benefit from the cost reduction of using fewer drives, which can include expensive electric motors, control circuitry, and other hardware.

BRIEF SUMMARY

An aspect of at least one of the inventions disclosed herein includes the realization that some types of solar tracking systems, such as those including a plurality of parallel rows of solar energy collectors driven with a common drive, can benefit from reduced labor and hardware costs by utilizing certain common components for various different applications within a system having a plurality of connected ground based supports for supporting a drive unit of a “ganged” sun-tracking solar power system.

For example, “ganged” sun-tracking solar power systems include a series of drive links extending from a drive actuator, to pivoting connections at each of a number of parallel torque tubes. Such pivoting connections can include bearings or simple pin-hole connections. Such connections are also connected to a torque arm associated with each torque tube. Thus, as the drive links are moved by the drive actuator, the torque tubes are pivoted. However, due to the nature of “ganged” systems, the total loads imparted to the sun-tracking drive system can be quite large.

For example, some known solar power systems which have 18 parallel torque tubes can generate loads of 30,000-50,000 lbs. of force, for example, when snow-loaded or subject to high winds. Thus, some known solar system designs include large, heavy and expensive drive mounts to withstand the maximum load design parameters of such systems.

An aspect of at least one of the embodiments disclosed herein includes the realization that certain components for supporting parallel torque tubes can also be used for supporting a drive used for moving the torque tubes in a sun tracking movement. For example, in some known designs, the torque tubes of such systems are supported by a plurality of pile driven support members. However, a single one of such pile driven support members would not normally be sufficient for anchoring a drive used for pivoting a plurality of torque tubes. Bus, an aspect of at least one of the embodiments disclosed herein includes the realization that a plurality of such pile driven supports can be used to replace the large, heavy, expensive drive mounts typically used for such systems.

Thus, in accordance with an embodiment, a sun tracking solar power system including a plurality of parallel arrays of sun tracking solar energy collection devices can comprise a plurality of spaced apart support members supporting each of the plurality of parallel arrays of sun tracking solar energy collection devices, a sun tracking drive connected to the plurality of parallel arrays and configured to drive the parallel arrays race on tracking movement, and a plurality of the support members supporting and fixing the sun tracking drive relative to the plurality of parallel arrays.

In some embodiments, a solar energy collection system can comprising a first array of solar energy collection devices mounted so as to be movable between first and second positions, the first array of solar energy collection devices can be mounted to a first rotational member assembly supported above the ground by a first plurality of support members which are fixed to the ground. A second array of solar energy collection devices can be spaced from the first array, the second array of solar energy collection devices can be mounted to a second rotational member assembly supported above the ground by a second plurality of support members. A drive system can comprise an actuator, a drive link assembly connecting the actuator with the first and second arrays. An actuator support can supporting the actuator above the ground, the actuator support comprising a third plurality of support members fixed to the ground and connected together.

Additionally, in some embodiments, a solar energy collection system can comprise a first array of solar energy collection devices mounted so as to be movable between first and second positions, the first array of solar energy collection devices can be mounted to a first rotational member assembly. A second array of solar energy collection devices can be spaced from the first array, the second array of solar energy collection devices can be mounted to a second rotational member assembly. A drive system can comprise an actuator, a drive link assembly connecting the actuator with the first and second arrays. An actuator support can support the actuator above the ground, the actuator support can be configured to allow an orientation of the actuator to be adjusted between a plurality of different orientations relative to the first and second arrays of solar energy collection devices.

This summary is provided to introduce a selection of concepts in a simplified form that are further described below in the detailed description. This summary is not intended to identify key features or essential features of the claimed subject matter, nor is it intended to be used as an aid in determining the scope of the claimed subject matter.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

A more complete understanding of the subject matter may be derived by referring to the detailed description and claims when considered in conjunction with the following figures, wherein like reference numbers refer to similar elements throughout the figures.

FIG. 1 is a schematic top plan view of a solar collector system including a sun-tracking drive in accordance with an embodiment;

FIG. 2 is a schematic diagram of the system illustrated in FIG. 1 illustrating optional electrical connections of the collector system with various electrical components;

FIG. 3 is a perspective view of the solar collection system of FIG. 1, illustrating a plurality of piles mounted to the ground and supporting a plurality of torque tubes with a sun-tracking drive in accordance with an embodiment;

FIG. 4 is a schematic, southerly facing, elevational view of four rows of a sun-tracking solar collection system in which the four rows are tilted with a common drive;

FIG. 5 is a schematic view of the system of FIG. 4, illustrating a backtracking movement of the system as the sun rises, the initial position indicated in solid line, a subsequent position illustrated in dotted line;

FIG. 6 is a schematic elevational view of the system of FIG. 5, illustrating a forward tracking movement of the system during mid-day;

FIG. 7 is a schematic elevational view of the system of FIG. 6, illustrating a backtracking movement during a portion of the evening;

FIG. 8 is a schematic elevational view of the system of FIG. 7, at sunset;

FIG. 9 is an enlarged perspective view of the mounting arrangement of the drive assembly illustrated in FIG. 2;

FIG. 10 is a top plan view of the mounting arrangement illustrated in FIG. 9;

FIG. 11 is a side elevational view of the mounting arrangement illustrated in FIG. 10;

FIG. 12 is a rear, right, and top perspective view of a drive mount member that can be used in conjunction with the drive mount assembly illustrated in FIGS. 9-11;

FIG. 13 is a rear elevational view of the drive mount member illustrated in FIG. 12;

FIG. 14 is a top plan view of the drive mount member illustrated in FIG. 12;

FIG. 15 is a front elevational view of the drive mount member illustrated in FIG. 12;

FIG. 16 is a bottom plan view of the drive mount member illustrated in FIG. 12;

FIG. 17 is a cross-sectional view of the drive mount member illustrated in FIG. 16, taken along line 17.-17.;

FIG. 18 is a bottom, rear, and right side perspective view of the drive mount member of FIG. 12 mounted to the drive mount arrangement of FIG. 9;

FIG. 19 is a rear, top, and right side partially exploded view of the drive mount member of FIG. 12;

FIG. 20 is a rear elevational view of the drive mount arrangement of FIG. 3 and illustrating a north south slope installation;

FIG. 21 is an enlarged rear elevational view of the mounting arrangement of FIG. 20;

FIG. 22 is a rear, top, and right side perspective view of the mounting arrangement of FIG. 18 including a drive motor and jackscrew mounted thereto and optional reinforcement members.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

The following detailed description is merely illustrative in nature and is not intended to limit the embodiments of the subject matter or the application and uses of such embodiments. As used herein, the word “exemplary” means “serving as an example, instance, or illustration.” Any implementation described herein as exemplary is not necessarily to be construed as preferred or advantageous over other implementations. Furthermore, there is no intention to be bound by any expressed or implied theory presented in the preceding technical field, background, brief summary or the following detailed description.

This specification includes references to “one embodiment” or “an embodiment.” The appearances of the phrases “in one embodiment” or “in an embodiment” do not necessarily refer to the same embodiment. Particular features, structures, or characteristics may be combined in any suitable manner consistent with this disclosure.

Various units or components may be described or claimed as “configured to” perform a task or tasks. In such contexts, the phrase “configured to” is used to connote structure by indicating that the units/components include structure that performs those task or tasks during operation. As such, the unit/component can be said to be configured to perform the task even when the specified unit/component is not currently operational (e.g., is not on/active). Reciting that a unit/circuit/component is “configured to” perform one or more tasks is expressly intended not to invoke 35 U.S.C. §112, sixth paragraph, for that unit/component.

“First,” “Second,” etc. as used herein, these terms are used as arbitrary labels for nouns that they precede, and do not imply any type of ordering (e.g., spatial, temporal, logical, etc.). For example, reference to a “first” solar module does not necessarily imply that this solar module is the first solar module in a sequence; instead the term “first” is used to differentiate this solar module from another solar module (e.g., a “second” solar module).

As used herein, the term “based on” describes one or more factors that affect a determination. This term does not foreclose additional factors that may affect a determination. That is, a determination may be solely based on those factors or based, at least in part, on those factors. Consider the phrase “determine A based on B.” While B may be a factor that affects the determination of A, such a phrase does not foreclose the determination of A from also being based on C. In other instances, A may be determined based solely on B.

The following description refers to elements, nodes, or features being “coupled” together. As used herein, unless expressly stated otherwise, “coupled” means that one element/node/feature is directly or indirectly joined to (or directly or indirectly communicates with) another element/node/feature.

Some elements, components, and/or features are described as being adjustable or adjusted. As used herein, unless expressly stated otherwise, “adjust” means to position, modify, alter, or dispose an element or component or portion thereof as suitable to the circumstance and embodiment. In certain cases, the element or component, or portion thereof, can remain in an unchanged position, state, and/or condition as a result of adjustment, if appropriate or desirable for the embodiment under the circumstances. In some cases, the element or component can be altered, changed, or modified to a new position, state, and/or condition as a result of adjustment, if appropriate or desired.

In addition, certain terminology may also be used in the following description for the purpose of reference only, and thus are not intended to be limiting. For example, terms such as “upper”, “lower”, “above”, and “below” refer to directions in the drawings to which reference is made. Terms such as “front”, “back”, “rear”, and “side” describe the orientation and/or location of portions of the component within a consistent but arbitrary frame of reference which is made clear by reference to the text and the associated drawings describing the component under discussion. Such terminology may include the words specifically mentioned above, derivatives thereof, and words of similar import.

The inventions disclosed herein are described in the context of non-concentrated photovoltaic arrays and modules. However, these inventions can be used in other contexts as well, such as concentrated photovoltaic systems, thermal solar systems, concentrated thermal solar systems, etc.

In the description set forth below, a solar energy collection system 10 is described in the context of a plurality of solar collection modules, supported so as to be pivotally adjustable for sun-tracking purposes. Each of the modules can include a support arrangement supporting a plurality of solar collection devices as well as wiring for connecting the various solar collection devices to each other and to other modules. For example, the solar collection system 10 of FIG. 1 can include a controller 50 and/or other devices for controlling operation of the drive 30 for sun-tracking operations or functionalities.

FIG. 1 illustrates the solar collection system 10, which can be considered an electricity farm, and which includes an improved drive mount assembly 30. FIGS. 1-8 generally describe the environment of use of the drive mount assembly 30 in the context of the sun-tracking solar collection system 10. A detailed description of the drive assembly 30 is set forth below with reference to FIGS. 9-22.

The solar collection system 10 includes a solar collector array 11 which includes a plurality of solar collection modules 12. Each of the solar collection modules 12 can include a plurality of solar collecting devices 14 (e.g., solar cells) incorporated into a laminate and encircled by a peripheral frame. The modules 12 can be supported by a drive shaft or torque tube 16.

Each of the torque tubes 16 are supported above the ground by a support assembly 18. Each of the support assemblies 18 can include a pile 22 and a bearing assembly 20. The piles 22 can be in the form of any type of pile, for example, those types of piles which can be “pile-driven” into the ground for providing structural support. For example, but without limitation, the piles 22 can be in the form of C-shaped channel structural steel, or other types of piles.

With continued reference to FIG. 1, the system 10 can also include a drive assembly 30 connected to the torque tube 16 and configured to pivot the torque tube 16 so as to cause the modules 12, and thus the collector devices 14, to track the movement of the sun. In the illustrated embodiment, the torque tubes 16 are arranged generally horizontally and the modules 12 can be connected to each other and the torque tubes 16, as more fully described in U.S. patent application Ser. No. 13/176,276, filed Jul. 5, 2011, the entire contents of which is hereby expressly incorporated by reference. However, inventions disclosed herein can be used in the context of other types of arrangements. For example, the system 10 can include a plurality of modules 12 that are arranged such that the torque tubes 16 are inclined relative to horizontal, wherein the torque tubes 16 are not connected in an end to end fashion, such as the arrangement illustrated and disclosed in U.S. Patent Publication No. 2008/0245360. The entire contents of the 2008/0245360 patent publication, as well as the entire contents of the U.S. patent application Ser. No. 13/631,782 are hereby expressly incorporated by reference. Further, the inventions disclosed herein can be used in conjunction with the systems that provide for controlled tilting about two axes, although not illustrated herein.

Additionally, the solar collection devices 14 can be in the form of thermal solar collection devices, concentrated photovoltaic devices, or concentrated thermal solar collection devices. In the illustrated embodiment, the solar collection devices 14 are solar cells configured for non-concentrated photovoltaic modules 12.

With reference to FIG. 2, solar collection system 10 can further include an electrical system 40 connected to the array 11. For example, the electrical system 40 can include the array 11 as a power source connected to a remote connection device 42 with power lines 44. The electrical system 40 can also include a utility power source, a meter, an electrical panel with a main disconnect, a junction, electrical loads, and/or an inverter with the utility power source monitor. The electrical system 40 can be configured and can operate in accordance with the descriptions set forth in U.S. Patent Publication No. 2010/0071744, the entire contents of which is hereby expressly incorporated by reference.

FIG. 3 illustrates the array 11 with all but one of the solar collection devices 14 removed. As shown in FIG. 3, each of the support assemblies 18 includes the bearing 20 supported at the upper end of a pile 22. The torque tube 16 can be of any length and can be formed in one or more pieces. The spacing of the piles 22 relative to one another, can be determined based on the desired limits on deflection of the torque tubes 16 between the support structures 18, wind loads, shading, and other factors. The spacing of the piles 22 is also a consideration for the spacing of the torque tubes 16 and the spacing of the modules 12. The ratio of the total area of all of the upper surfaces of the modules 12 (when in a “noon” position) divided by the total area occupied by the modules 12 (including all of the gaps) is known as the “Ground Coverage Ratio” (GCR). Larger gaps between the modules 14 result in a lower GCR, but also reduce inter-row shading and thus reduce the amount of time during which backtracking is needed to avoid inter-row shading.

The tilt drive 30 can include a drive strut 32 coupled with the torque tube 16 in a way that pivots the torque tube 16 as the drive strut 32 is moved axially along its length. The drive strut 32 can be connected with the torque tube 16 with torque arm assemblies 34. In the illustrated embodiment, the torque arm assemblies 34 disposed at an end of each of the torque tubes 16. Additionally, the array 11 can include an electrical wire tray 60 supported by one or more of the piles 22, or by other means.

FIGS. 4-8 schematically illustrate sun-tracking movements of the modules 12 over the course of the daylight portion of one day. Specifically, FIG. 4 illustrates the system 10 oriented in a “noon” position. However, as shown in FIG. 4, the sun 52 is on the eastward horizon, i.e., sunrise. As the sun 52 rises, sunlight 54 from the sun 52 approaches the modules 12 along a direction essentially parallel to the upper surfaces of the modules 12. The modules 12, however, are maintained in a direction pointing directly upward (“noon”), so as to avoid ‘the eastward module 56 from casting a shadow on the adjacent, westward positioned modules 12.

With reference to FIG. 5, as the sun 52 rises from the sunrise position illustrated in solid line to a position later in the morning, illustrated in dash line, the controller 50 operates the drive 30 to tilt the modules 12 in a backtracking motion. Specifically, during a backtracking motion in the morning, the modules 12 are gradually tilted eastwardly, as the sun 52 rises along a westerly trajectory.

The controller 50 performs calculations for controlling the drive 30 so as to orient the modules 12 as closely as possible to an orientation perpendicular to the sunlight 54, without casting a shadow on adjacent modules 12. In other words, the controller 50 causes the modules 12 to rotate through a range of non-optimal orientations, which produces less power than a perpendicular orientation, so as to avoid casting shadows which have a greater detrimental effect on total power output of the system 10.

With reference to FIG. 6, as the sun 52 moves to a position at which shadows can no longer be cast by any of the modules 12 onto an adjacent module 14, the modules 12 are tilted through a forward tracking movement, following the movement of the sun 52 such that the modules 12 face a direction as close as possible to perpendicular to sunlight 54 from the sun 52.

With reference to FIG. 7, as the sun 52 continues to move across the sky, it eventually reaches a position, illustrated in FIG. 7, at which the westward modules, for example, module 56, begins or will begin to cast shadows on the adjacent modules 12 positioned to the east. Thus, the controller 50 controls the modules 12 to tilt through a backtracking movement, like that described above with reference to FIG. 5. By the time of sunset, as illustrated in FIG. 8, the modules 12 are eventually tilted to a horizontal or “noon” position.

While the modules 12 are tilted in before noon orientations (i.e., all positions when modules 12 are tilted eastwardly relative to a “noon” position) and afternoon orientations (i.e., all positions when modules 12 are tilted westwardly relative to a “noon” position), gravity generates some torque on the torque tubes 16 which is transferred to the torque arms 34. The gravity-induced torque is caused by the position of the center of gravity of the array, which tends to be above the pivot axis of the torque tube 16, during before-noon positions of the modules 12.

The torque generated during before-noon orientations of the modules 12, is transferred through the torque arm 34 to the drive struts 32. The drive struts 32 can comprise a plurality of link members connected in an end-to-end fashion and additionally connected to an end of the torque arm 34. The torque thus generates tension forces in the drive links. Similarly, when the modules 12 are oriented in after-noon orientations, the gravity-induced torques are transferred through the torque arms 34 to the drive struts 32 in the form of compressive forces which are resisted by the drive assembly 30.

Additionally, loads created by other matter collecting on the modules 12 can generate additional loads. For example, significant amounts of snow can accumulate the upper surface of the modules 12, thereby generating even higher torques and loads. Thus, for some sizes of solar systems 10, such systems including 18 rows of torque tubes 16, the drive assembly 30 can be subjected to axial loads, in the form of tension and compression of the drive struts 32 as high as 30,000 to 50,000 pounds.

Using 50,000 pounds as an exemplary maximum design load parameter for the drive assembly 30 establishes the drive assembly 30 as the component which is exposed to the highest loads in the entire system 10, by a significant margin. Thus, known existing systems similar to that illustrated in FIGS. 1 and 3 include heavily ballasted mounting bases specifically designed for supporting a drive assembly. For example, such known systems include a large diameter hole filled with steel reinforced concrete having sufficient size and weight for resisting the 50,000 pound lateral load design parameter noted above.

An aspect of at least one of the inventions disclosed herein includes the realization that significant amount of labor costs, material costs and construction time can be avoided by forming a drive mount base from a plurality of other support structures used for supporting other parts of the solar system 10.

Thus, with reference to FIGS. 9-11, the drive assembly 30 can include a mounting base assembly 100 comprising a plurality of structural support members used in other parts of the system 10, connected together in such a way that loads imparted to the drive assembly 30 are shared amongst the plurality of structural members.

For example, in the illustrated embodiment, the mounting base 100 includes a plurality 102 of piles 22 which are similar to or the same as piles 22 illustrated in FIG. 3 above as supporting torque tubes 16. Optionally, the piles used for the mounting base 100 can be of the same type of support member as the piles 22 used to support the torque tubes 16. In some embodiments, the piles 22 of the mounting base can have different structures, thicknesses, cross sections, yet be installable in the same fashion as the piles 22 supporting the torque tubes, for example, by pile-driving, and thus be considered as being the same type of or substantially the same support members as those used to support he torque tubes 16. In the illustrated embodiment, the mounting base 100 includes six (6) piles 22. Other numbers and types of piles 22 can also be used.

With continued reference to FIG. 9, the piles 22 are illustrated as having been pile-driven into the ground G with the same or similar orientation to that of the piles 22 supporting the torque tube 16. More specifically, for example, the piles 22 have planar faces 23 a/k/a “webs”, which extend generally perpendicular to the pivot axis of the torque tube 16. In the illustrated embodiment, the webs face towards north, as illustrated in FIG. 9.

As such, during construction of a system 10, the piles 22 forming the plurality of supports 102 can be installed into the ground G at approximately the same time, for example, during the same construction phase as that during which the piles 22 supporting the torque tube 16 are driven into the ground G.

The mounting base 100 can also include a load sharing assembly 104. The load sharing assembly 104 can be configured to interconnect two or more of the plurality of load support members 102 so as to spread loads amongst the plurality of support members. Thus, in the illustrated embodiment, the load sharing assembly 104 includes interconnection member 106 and interconnection member 108, each of which connect a plurality of the piles 22 together. In the illustrated embodiment, the interconnection members 106 and 108 are in the form of structural “angle steel”. However, other configurations of the interconnection members 106, 108 can also be used.

Optionally, the interconnection members 106, 108 and the associated piles 22 can include apertures for receiving fasteners, such as threaded fasteners, to simplify assembly at a solar facility site. In the illustrated embodiment, the apertures on the piles 22 are formed on the webs 23 and the apertures on the interconnection members 106, 108 are formed on the vertical portions of those frame members, positioned for alignment with the apertures on the webs 23. With such apertures attached, for example, with threaded fasteners, parts of the interconnection members 106, 108 each are oriented horizontally, referred to herein as horizontally extending portions 110, 112.

Additionally, optionally, the interconnection members 106, 108 can extend to piles 22 supporting the torque tube 16. As such, the interconnection members 106, 108 can also be attached to the piles 22 supporting the torque tube 16. Additionally, such connections can be facilitated with pre-drilled apertures for receiving threaded fasteners. However, other techniques can also be used.

Optionally, an alignment tool 114 can be used during installation of the interconnection members 106, 108 to ensure proper spacing between the upper surfaces 110, 112 and otherwise proper alignment of the support frame members 106, 108.

With the plurality of support members 102 connected in a way so as to share a load, the tensile loads acting in the direction of arrow T (FIGS. 9-11), as well as the compressive loads which act in the direction of arrow C transferred to a drive supported by the drive mount base 100 can be shared amongst the plurality of support members 102. As such, the plurality of support members 102 can withstand tensile forces T and compressive forces C that are much greater than the maximum forces which individual piles 22 could withstand on their own.

Thus, for example, in a system 10 with a maximum load parameter of 50,000 pounds compression or tension and based on the height of the load sharing assembly 104, each individual pile 22 could withstand approximately 10,000 pounds of compression C or tension T. However, combined with the load sharing assembly 104, the plurality of support members 102 can withstand maximum loads up to approximately 60,000 pounds of compression C or tension T. Thus, depending on the design parameters of a particular system, the number of piles 22 and/or types of support members used in the plurality of support members 102 can be modified.

With reference to FIGS. 12-17, the drive assembly 30 can also include an actuator mount member 120. The actuator mount member 120 can be configured to be securely fixed to the drive mount base 100 as well as to an actuator configured to apply driving forces to the drive struts 32 during operation. The actuator can be any type of actuator. Optionally, the actuator 122 (FIG. 22) can be in the form of an electric jackscrew drive.

For example, the jackscrew drive 122 can include an electric motor, a worm gear-type transmission, and a jackscrew member 124 and can be configured to drive the jackscrew member 124 through a reciprocating, east-west movements, for driving the drive struts 32 in the desired directions. Such actuators 122 can include an annular or cylindrical mounting face extending around the jackscrew 124, for example, with a bolt hole pattern or other attachment device configured to attach to a drive mount. Such actuators 122 are well known in the art and widely commercially available. Thus, the actuator 122 is not described further.

With continued reference to FIGS. 12-17, the actuator mount member 120 can include mounting portions for fixation to the mount base 100 and for connection to the actuator 122.

For example, optionally, the actuator mount 120 can be configured for fixation to the load sharing assembly 104 of the mount base 100. In some embodiments, the actuator mount member 120 includes first and second mounting portions 140, 142 configured to be fixable to the interconnecting members 106, 108, respectively. For example, the mounting portions 140, 142 can be formed with structural members, such as plate steel, or other members, and a plurality of apertures for fixation to the frames 106, 108 with fasteners, such as threaded fasteners. With continued reference to FIGS. 12 and 16, the apertures can be enlarged or slotted to provide for adjustable mounting to the frame members 106, 108.

With the continued reference to FIG. 12-17, the actuator mount member 120 can also include a web portion 144 extending between and connecting the mounting portions 140, 142. In the illustrated embodiment, the web portion 144 is generally in the form of a truss having a configuration designed to withstand the forces associated with supporting the actuator 122 as well as forces imposed onto the actuator 122 by way of compression C and tension T forces (FIG. 9) transmitted to the jackscrew 124 (FIG. 22). In the illustrated embodiment, the web portion 144 is constructed with the plurality of plate steel members welded together, with weight-reducing/access apertures. However, other configurations can also be used.

With reference to FIGS. 12, 13, 14, and 15, the actuator mount member 120 can include an actuator mount face 150. The actuator mount face 150 can include one or more features configured for adjustable connection to the actuator 122.

For example, with continued reference to FIGS. 15, 16, and 17, the mounting face 150 can include a central aperture 152 to accommodate reciprocal movement of the jackscrew 124 therethrough. Optionally, the central aperture 152 can be significantly larger than the jackscrew 124 so as to provide for multiple mounting orientations and positions of the actuator 122 relative to the mounting face 150. Additionally, optionally, the mounting face 150 can include a plurality of upper apertures 154 and a plurality of lower apertures 156 extending above and below the central aperture 152, respectively. The upper and lower apertures 154, 156 can be configured and arranged to provide for a plurality of different mounting locations for the actuator 122. For example, the apertures 154, 156 provide for a plurality of different mounting positions of the actuator 122 laterally spaced as viewed in FIG. 15, described in greater detail below with reference to FIG. 21.

Optionally, with continued reference to FIGS. 13, 14, and 15, the actuator mount member 120 can include other mounting surfaces, to provide additional means for withstanding the compressive C and tensile T forces transmitted to the actuator 122. For example, but without limitation, the actuator mount member 120 can include an intermediate mount portion 160 mounted in a location generally between the mounting portions 140, 142. For example, as in the top plan view of FIG. 14, the intermediate mount portion 160 is disposed between the mounting portions 140 and 142. Additionally, as viewed in FIGS. 13 and 15, the intermediate mount portion 160 is disposed above the central aperture 152 of the mount face 150 and higher than the mounting portions 140, 142. The intermediate mounting portion 160 can be configured to be attachable to additional support structures, as desired. In the illustrated embodiment, the intermediate support portion 160 includes apertures 162 for receiving fasteners, such as threaded fasteners. However, other attachment techniques and devices can also be used.

With continued reference to FIG. 19, the actuator mount member 120 can also include an adjustable actuator mounting member that is adjustably fixable to the actuator mount member 120. For example, the adjustable actuator mount member 170 can be configured to be fixable to the mounting face 150 in a plurality of different orientations.

In some embodiments, the adjustable actuator mount member 170 includes a mounting face 172 and one or more actuator mounting arms 174. The actuator mounting arms 174 can include one or more apertures 176 configured to be fixable to the actuator 122. In the illustrated embodiment, the arms 174 and apertures 176 are configured to securely attach to a worm gear housing of the actuator 122, because the actuator 122 is designed to be supported by the worm gear casing. Other actuators can be supported with other types of mounting arms 174 and/or apertures 176.

The mounting plate 172 also includes a central aperture 178 configured to accommodate the jackscrew 124 (FIG. 22). As such, the central aperture 178 is disposed between the arms 174.

The mounting plate 172, as noted above, is configured to be adjustably mountable to the mounting face 150. Thus, in some embodiments, the mounting plate 172 includes a plurality of slotted upper and lower apertures 180, 182 configured to be attachable to the upper and lower apertures 154, 156 of the mounting face 150.

More specifically, with reference to FIGS. 15 and 19, the upper apertures 180 of the mounting plate 172, due to their elongated shape, can be aligned with the upper apertures 154 of the mounting face 150 in a plurality of different positions and orientations. Similarly, the lower apertures 182 can also be variably aligned with the lower apertures 156 of the mounting face 150. Such adjustability provides for both lateral and rotational adjustment of the adjustable actuator mounting member 170.

Optionally, in the illustrated embodiment, the upper and lower apertures 180 are slotted and extend along arched paths. For example, the curved slotted configurations of the upper and lower apertures 180, 182 further facilitate rotational adjustment of the member 170 relative to the mounting surface 150. Optionally, the upper and lower apertures 180, 182 can extend along a radius of curvatures centered approximately in the central aperture 178.

Additionally, in some embodiments, the mount assembly 120 can also include a clamping plate 190 configured to be attachable to the member 170 with the mounting face 150 disposed there between. Thus, the clamping plate 190 includes a central aperture 192 shaped and configured to be alignable with the central aperture 178 of the member 170 and the central aperture 152 of the mounting face 150. Additionally, the clamping plate member 190 can also include a plurality of apertures configured to be alignable with the upper and lower apertures 180, 182 of the member 170 for receiving fasteners, such as threaded fasteners. As such, the clamping plate 190 and the member 170 can be secured together, with the mounting face 150 clamped there between for secure fixation thereto.

As noted above, the configuration of the upper and lower apertures 180, 182 can provide for beneficial adjustment of the member 170 relative to the face 150.

One example of an installation configuration is illustrated in FIGS. 20 and 21. In this exemplary configuration, the ground G is at a slope of approximately 5° relative to horizontal. The piles 22 are driven into the Ground so as to be vertical in orientation. As such, the frame members 106, 108 are mounted such that their upper faces 110, 112 are horizontal and lie approximately in the same plane. As such, the actuator mount member 120 can be fixed to the frame members 106, 108 so as to extend in a generally horizontal orientation. However, the torque tubes 16 are mounted such that their pivot axis 17 extends parallel to the ground G, as noted above, in this example, at an angle of approximately 5°, relative to horizontal. Thus, in this orientation of the torque tube 16, the torque arms 34 extend downwardly at approximately 5° relative to vertical. Similarly, all of the drive struts 32 will be aligned along and also rise and fall in accordance with the movement of the torque arms 34, along a plane perpendicular to the torque tube 16. The actuator 122 is mounted in accordance with the angular orientation and movement of the drive struts 32 so that the jackscrew 124 can move appropriately in a proper alignment with the drive struts 32.

Thus, as illustrated in FIG. 21, the adjustable actuator mount 170 can be mounted at an angle skewed from the mounting face 150. In the illustrated embodiment, the offset alignment of the adjustable actuator mount plate 170 is accommodated by the slotted upper and lower apertures 180, 182 and their configuration and alignment to be fixable with the upper and lower apertures 154, 156 of the mounting face 150.

With reference to FIG. 22, the drive assembly 30 can also include reinforcing members 190, 192. For example, the reinforcing members 190, 192 can be configured to be fixable to the apertures 162 on the upper or intermediate mount portion 160 and fixable to the frames 106, 108, respectively. For example, the reinforcing members 190, 192 can include apertures at their upper ends, alignable with the apertures 162 of the actuator support member 120 and the apertures at their opposite ends for fastening with apertures in the frames 106, 108. As such, the reinforcing members 190, 192 can assist in resisting torsional forces that can be generated by the system 10, through the application of compressive C and tensile T forces acting through the jackscrew 124 on the actuator 122 and thus on the actuator mount member 120.

Although specific embodiments have been described above, these embodiments are not intended to limit the scope of the present disclosure, even where only a single embodiment is described with respect to a particular feature. Examples of features provided in the disclosure are intended to be illustrative rather than restrictive unless stated otherwise. The above description is intended to cover such alternatives, modifications, and equivalents as would be apparent to a person skilled in the art having the benefit of this disclosure.

The scope of the present disclosure includes any feature or combination of features disclosed herein (either explicitly or implicitly), or any generalization thereof, whether or not it mitigates any or all of the problems addressed herein. Accordingly, new claims may be formulated during prosecution of this application (or an application claiming priority thereto) to any such combination of features.

Claims

1. A solar energy collection system comprising: a first array of solar energy collection devices mounted so as to be movable between first and second positions, the first array of solar energy collection devices mounted to a first rotational member assembly supported above the ground by a first plurality of support members which are fixed to the ground;a second array of solar energy collection devices spaced from the first array, the second array of solar energy collection devices mounted to a second rotational member assembly supported above the ground by a second plurality of support members;a drive system comprising an actuator, a drive link assembly connecting the actuator with the first and second arrays;an actuator support supporting the actuator above the ground, the actuator support comprising a third plurality of support members fixed to the ground and connected together.

2. The solar energy collection system according to claim 1, wherein the third support members are the same type of member as the first and second plurality of support members.

3. The solar energy collection system according to claim 1, wherein the third plurality of support members are substantially the same as the first and second plurality of support members.

4. The solar energy collection system according to claim 1, wherein the first, second, and third plurality of support members are piles.

5. The solar energy collection system according to claim 4, wherein the first, second, and third plurality of support members are structural c-channel members pile-driven into the ground.

6. The solar energy collection system according to claim 1, wherein the actuator support comprises an actuator mounting fixture having an actuator mounting surface connected to the actuator and first and second mounting surfaces, the first mounting surface connected to at least one of the third plurality of support members and the second mounting surface connected to at least a second of the third plurality of support members.

7. The solar energy collection system according to claim 6, wherein the actuator mounting surface comprises an arrangement of fastening features configured for fixation to the actuator in a plurality of different orientations.

8. The solar energy collection system according to claim 1, wherein the actuator support comprises an actuator mounting fixture having an actuator mounting surface configured for fixation to the actuator in a plurality of different orientations, the actuator support being connected to at least first and second support members of the third plurality of support members.

9. The solar energy collection system according to claim 1, wherein the third plurality of support members comprises at least four piles, pile driven into the ground.

10. A solar energy collection system comprising: a first array of solar energy collection devices mounted so as to be movable between first and second positions, the first array of solar energy collection devices mounted to a first rotational member assembly;a second array of solar energy collection devices spaced from the first array, the second array of solar energy collection devices mounted to a second rotational member assembly;a drive system comprising an actuator, a drive link assembly connecting the actuator with the first and second arrays;an actuator support supporting the actuator above the ground, the actuator support configured to allow an orientation of the actuator to be adjusted between a plurality of different orientations relative to the first and second arrays of solar energy collection devices.

11. The solar energy collection system according to claim 10, the actuator support comprises a mounting member fixed to the ground and a mounting plate fixed to the actuator and adjustably mounted to the mounting member.

12. The solar energy collection system according to claim 10, wherein the first and second rotational members pivot about first and second pivot axes, respectively, and wherein the actuator support is configured to allow the actuator to be angularly adjusted about an axis that is transverse to the first and second pivot axes.

13. The solar energy collection system according to claim 10, wherein the actuator support comprises a first member fixed relative to the ground and a second member adjustably connected to the first member, the second member being fixable to the first member and a plurality of different orientations over an angular range of at least about 5° about an adjustment axis which is perpendicular to a rotational axis of the first and second rotational member assemblies.

14. The solar energy collection system according to claim 10, wherein the first and second rotational assemblies are supported above the ground with a first type of support member, the actuator support comprising the first type of support member.

15. The solar energy collection system according to claim 10, wherein the first and second rotational assemblies are supported above the ground with piles driven into the ground, the actuator support comprising piles driven into the ground.

16. The solar energy collection system according to claim 10, wherein the first rotational member assembly is supported above the ground of a first plurality of support members, the actuator support comprising a second plurality of support members, the first and second pluralities of support members being connected together with at least a first structural member.

17. The solar energy collection system according to claim 16, wherein the actuator support comprises an actuator mount directly connected to the actuator, the mount connected to and supported by the first structural member.

18. The solar energy collection system according to claim 17, wherein the actuator mount comprises a first member fixed to the first structural member, a second member fixed to the actuator, the first and second members being adjustably connected to each other.

19. The solar energy collection system according to claim 10, wherein the actuator support comprises a truss having a central portion and extending in a longitudinal direction between a first end of the truss and a second end of the truss, the longitudinal direction being generally parallel to a rotational axis of the first rotational member assembly, the first and second ends of the truss being fixed relative to the ground, the central portion of the trust being fixed to the actuator.

20. A solar energy collection system comprising: a first array of solar energy collection devices mounted so as to be movable between first and second positions, the first array of solar energy collection devices mounted to a first rotational member assembly supported above the ground with a first plurality of support members;a second array of solar energy collection devices spaced from the first array, the second array of solar energy collection devices mounted to a second rotational member assembly supported above the ground with a second plurality of support members;a drive system comprising an actuator, a drive link assembly connecting the actuator with the first and second arrays;means for adjustably supporting the actuator above the ground with the same type of support members of the first plurality of support members.