| CLAIMS claimed is: A dam, comprising: at least two precast segments of a dam configured to be interconnected; and at least one interlocking element or structure configured to join the at least two precast segments to form a dam at a dam location. The dam according to Claim 1 further comprising a main energy generation component, operably interconnected to the at least two precast segments, the main energy generation component configured to be coupled to an energy transfer bus. The dam according to Claim 1 wherein the at least two precast segments are further configured to be installed either (i) while a substance flow is diverted or (ii) while a substance flow is not diverted. The dam according to Claim 1 wherein the at least two precast segments are further configured to be operably interconnected to at least one terrestrial component. The dam according to Claim 1 further comprising: an underpinning unit configured to be installed into the ground at the dam location; a connection component at a lower surface of the at least two precast segments; and at least one connection element configured to connect the underpinning unit with the at least two precast segments. The dam according to Claim 5 wherein the connection component is originally integrated into the lower surface of the at least two precast segments. The dam according to Claim 5 wherein the connection component is configured to be separately coupled to the lower surface of the at least two precast segments. The dam according to Claim 1 further comprising: a spillway extender, integrally coupled to at least one of the at least two precast segments, configured to prevent downstream erosion; an adjustable pressure gate, operably interconnected to at least one of the at least two precast segments, configured to maintain a constant pressure across the energy generation component; and a gear shifting unit configured to change at least one gear of the energy generation component in such a manner as to translate a rate of waterflow. The dam of Claim 8 where the gear shifting unit is self-operating The dam of Claim 1 further comprising an auxiliary energy generation component configured to provide energy for at least one electrical component at the dam location. A method of assembling a dam at a dam location, the method comprising: providing at least two precast segments; and joining the at least two precast segments via at least one interlocking element to form a dam at a dam location. The method of Claim 11 further comprising operably interconnecting a main energy generation component to joined precast segments and an energy transfer bus. 13. The method according to Claim 11 further comprising installing the at least two precast segments while a substance flow is diverted, partially diverted, or flowing without diversion. 14. The method according to Claim 11 further comprising operably interconnecting the at least two precast segments to at least one terrestrial component. 15. The method according to Claim 11 further comprising: installing an underpinning unit into the ground at the dam location; maintaining a connection component at a lower surface of the at least two precast segments; and connecting the underpinning unit with at least one of the at least two precast segments via at least one connection element. 16. The method according to Claim 15 wherein the connection component is originally integrated into the lower surface of the at least two precast segments. 17. The method according to Claim 15 wherein the connection component is configured to be separately coupled to the lower surface of the at least two precast segments. 18. The method according to Claim 11 further comprising: employing a spillway extender, integrally coupled to at least one of the at least two precast segments, to prevent downstream erosion; maintaining a constant pressure across the energy generation component via an adjustable pressure gate, the adjustable pressure gate operably interconnected to a unit or other component of the dam; and shifting at least one gear of the energy generation component in such a manner as to translate a rate of waterflow via a gear shifting unit. 19. The method of Claim 18 wherein shifting the gear shifting unit is performed in a self-operating manner. 20. The method of Claim 10 further comprising energizing at least one electrical component at the dam location via an auxiliary energy generation component. 21. A dam, comprising: means for forming a structure of a dam; and means for interlocking said means for forming the structure of the dam. 22. An energy collection system comprising: at least two towers configured to support an energy collection assembly; and a base support structure including a platform configured to rotate the dual towers to enable the dual towers to rotate about a vertical axis. 23. The energy collection system of Claim 21 wherein the energy collection system is a solar panel assembly or a wind turbine assembly. 24. The energy collection system of Claim 21 wherein the supporting structure is positioned on an unstable surface via a surface treatment assembly. 25. The energy collection system of Claim 23 wherein the supporting structure can be one of: a vehicle, transportation device, unstable grounds, and separably moveable parts. 26. The energy collection system of Claim 21 wherein each energy collection assembly is configured to fold or rotate in at least one plane. 27. The energy collection system of Claim 21 further comprising: at least two structures, each structure being configured to support one energy collection assembly; a base support system operably interconnected to a platform configured to enable rotation of the at least two structures about vertical, horizontal, or angled axes; and a supporting structure configured to mount the dynamic energy collection assembly to the at least two structures. The energy collection system of Claim 21 wherein the at least two towers are further configured to rotate in a stable manner when mounted on the supporting structure. The energy collection system of Claim 21 wherein the base support system is further configured to provide sufficient ballast so as to maintain the at least two towers in an upright position in the presence of varying internal and/or external forces. The energy collection system of Claim 21 further comprising: assembly components configured to maintain stability of mounted components, structures, and elements thereof; at least one energy storage device configured to store energy generated by the solar panel assembly; and a transfer unit configured to transfer the energy generate by the solar power assembly away from the solar energy collection system. A method of collecting energy, the method comprising: configuring at least two towers to support an energy collection assembly; and rotating a base support structure including a platform configured to rotate the dual towers, the rotation enabling the dual towers to rotate about a vertical axis. An energy collection system, comprising: means for configuring at least two towers to support an energy collection assembly; and means for rotating the dual towers about a vertical axis. A mobile power system, comprising: a mobile transport system; and a power generation system configured to be transported by the mobile transport system in a retracted state and convert energy to available power in an operational state. The mobile power system of Claim 33 wherein the power generation system is a solar power system or a wind turbine system. The mobile power system of Claim 33 wherein the power generation system includes power assemblies configured to be foldable along any axis. The mobile power system of Claim 33 further comprising a lift system configured to raise a folded or unfolded power generation assembly above a chassis of the mobile transport system. The mobile power system of Claim 35 wherein the lift system is further configured to rotate the panel assembly to be directed at the source of energy collection in a manner capable of tracking the position of the energy source. The mobile power system of Claim 33 wherein the power generation system is a solar power system assembled to operate with mirrored components in a manner enabling direct or indirect collection of energy. The mobile power system of Claim 33 wherein the mobile transport system further includes a stabilizing system, optionally including extendable arms, to enhance stability of the mobile transport system and the mobile solar power system. The mobile power system of Claim 33 wherein the mobile transport system further includes an energy assembly having an inverter to convert collected power into useable energy. A method of transporting a power system, the method comprising: maintaining a mobile transport system configured to carry a power generation system; and configuring the power generation system to be transported by the mobile transport system in a retracted state and convert energy to available power in an operational state. A mobile power system, comprising: means for transporting a power generation system; and means for configuring the power generation system to be transported by the mobile transport system in a retracted state and convert energy to available power in an operational state. |
RELATED APPLICATIONS
This Application claims the benefit of U.S. Provisional Application Nos. 61/477,360 filed on April 20, 2011, U.S. Provisional Application No. 61/477,354 filed on April 20, 2011 , U.S. Provisional Application No. 61/477,345 filed on April 20, 2011, U.S. Provisional Application No. 61/327,500 filed on April 23, 2010, U.S. Provisional Application No. 61/327,496 filed on April 23, 2010, and U.S.
Provisional Application No. 61/327,468 filed on April 23, 2010. The entire teachings of the above applications are incorporated herein by reference.
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
Hydroelectric dams provide electrical power through use of converting kinetic energy provided by running water into electrical power through use of rotation-to-electric converters, as well known in the art. An example of such a dam is the Hoover Dam that provides great amounts of electrical power for providing electricity to a grid that is configured to distribute electrical energy to a local area. As well understood in the art, to install a dam requires discontinuity of the flow of water over the portion of land at which the dam is to be placed such that pouring of concrete and curing of the concrete may be done, with installation of power generation components to be completed prior to redirecting the water flow back to the dam.
Energy collection and generation systems, such as solar power systems, are useful for converting solar energy into useful electric energy. Solar panels have been used in many applications, such as residential or standalone systems, to provide energy needed to operate electronics systems, such as emergency phone systems on the side of highways or dishwashers and televisions in residences. Multiple solar power generation systems may be deployed together to form solar panel farms to provide electrical power to grids that are used to distribute energy to entire communities. Other forms of renewable energy systems are also useful in this regard.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
An example embodiment of the present invention includes precast segments configured to be interconnected to other precast segments to compose a dam, and may also include a main energy generation component, which may be operably interconnected to the interconnected precast segments. The main energy generation component is configured to be coupled to an energy transfer bus. At least one interlocking element is configured to interconnect the precast segments.
Another example embodiment of the present invention includes a method for interconnecting precast segments, where the precast segments may be operably interconnected to an energy generation component, which is coupled to an energy transfer bus, and interconnected to each other via at least one interlocking element.
Further example embodiments of the present invention include a power collection system comprising at least two towers configured to support a solar panel assembly and a base support structure, including a platform, configured to rotate the dual towers and enable the dual towers to rotate about a vertical axis. Alternative example embodiments of the present invention include a method of collecting solar power, including configuring at least two towers to support a solar power assembly and rotating a base support structure including a platform configured to rotate the dual towers, the rotation enabling the dual towers to rotate about a vertical axis. Further example embodiments of the present invention include a solar power collection system including a means for configuring at least two towers to support a solar power assembly and a means for rotating a base support structure
interconnected to a platform, the platform configured to rotate the dual towers, causing the dual towers to rotate about a vertical axis.
A mobile power system according to an embodiment of the present invention includes a mobile transport system and a solar panel power generation system configured to be transported by the mobile transport system in a retracted state and convert solar power in an operational state. Alternative example embodiments of the present invention include a method of transporting a solar power system, including maintaining a mobile transport system configured to carry a solar power system and configuring the solar power system to be transported by the mobile transport system in a retracted state and convert solar power in an operational state. Further example embodiments of the present invention include a mobile solar power system including a means for maintaining a mobile transport system configured to carry a solar power system and a means for configuring the solar power system to be transported by the mobile transport system in a retracted state and convert solar power in an operational state.
It should be understood that alternative embodiments may include other energy collection components, such as wind turbines, rather than solar collectors.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
The foregoing will be apparent from the following more particular description of example embodiments of the invention and as illustrated in the accompanying figures. The drawings are not necessarily to scale, emphasis instead being placed upon illustrating example embodiments of the present invention.
The accompanying figures where like reference numerals refer to identical or functionally similar elements throughout the separate views and which together with the detailed description below are incorporated in and form part of the Specification, serve to illustrate various embodiments further and to explain various principles and advantages all in accordance with the example embodiments of the present invention. The teachings of all patents, published applications and references cited herein are incorporated by reference in their entireties.
FIG. 1 A is a high level view of a river in which multiple dams according to embodiments of the present invention may be employed, optionally including auxiliary power systems, such as solar panel auxiliary power systems.
FIG. IB is a high level view of a dam according to an example embodiment of the present invention optionally including segmented ballast base support structures.
FIG. 1C is a diagram of a solar panel tower positioned on a ground treatment to support the tower on unstable ground. FIG. 2A is a mechanical diagram of multiple segmental precast dam components arranged together to form a composite dam.
FIG. 2B is a view of a single precast dam having a hydroelectric energy generation system and a gearing system to change a rate of rotation of the electrical generator for a given rate of waterflow.
FIG. 2C is a side view of a dam according to an embodiment of the present invention in which a rotary wheel used for converting waterflow to electrical energy is employed, where the waterflow travels beneath the wheel to cause a rotation and optionally causes an auxiliary wheel to rotate to generate auxiliary power.
FIG. 2D is a top view of a single precast segment of a hydroelectric dam system that illustrates features fore and aft of the dam to interlock the precast segment with other precast segments or spillway extenders.
FIG. 3 is a mechanical diagram illustrating upstream and downstream spillway structures that may be precast and assembled along with the precast segmental dam structures.
FIG. 4 is a group of mechanical diagrams illustrating spillway structural elements, including vertical and horizontal elements, which may include keyway lock and support structures.
FIG. 5 is a group of mechanical diagrams illustrating alternative features and embodiments of the dam assembly according to embodiments of the present invention.
FIG. 6 is a flow diagram of an embodiment of the present invention that illustrates a method of dam assembly.
FIG. 7 is a flow diagram of an embodiment of the present invention that illustrates a method of assembling a dam of the present invention.
FIG. 8 is a front view of a dual tower solar tracker according to an embodiment of the present invention.
FIG. 9 is a side view of an example embodiment of a dual tower solar tracker system.
FIG. 10 is a top view of an example embodiment of the dual tower solar tracker system.
FIG. 11 is a front view of a base riser for a dual tower solar tracker system. FIG. 12 is a diagram of a collection of dual tower solar trackers used together.
FIG. 13 is a flow chart that illustrates a method for performing example embodiments of the present invention.
FIG. 14 is a flow diagram of an embodiment of the present invention that illustrates an example process of the present invention.
FIG. 15 A is a side view of a truck equipped with a solar panel assembly in a folded and retracted position.
FIG. 15B is a side view of the truck with solar panel assembly unfolded and raised to an operating state.
FIG. 16 is a rear view of the truck with extended outrigger support.
FIG. 17 is a rear view of the truck in a travel mode with a tri-fold solar panel assembly in which travel locking bars interconnect the raised solar panel elements to provide structural stability between them.
FIG. 18 is a rear view of a truck with a dual piston system configured to raise the solar panels and rotate the solar panels by way of a drive motor connected to a platform or other structural assembly to which the dual pistons are mounted.
FIG. 19 is a side view of the dual axis solar tracking system arranged in a travel mode.
FIG. 20 is a bottom view of a trailer with outriggers and tracker turntable.
FIG. 21 is a top view of a collection of truck or trailer mounted solar panels arranged to collect massive amounts of solar power.
FIG. 22 is a flow diagram of an embodiment of the present invention that illustrates a method of transporting a dual axis solar tracker.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION
A description of example embodiments of the invention follows.
Dam with Optional Power Generation and Storage
An embodiment of the present invention includes precast dam components that may be installed at a dam location, either with water flow diverted or while water flow continues, depending on the strength of the water flow. An embodiment of the invention may include an underpinning system that has elements of concrete or other materials formed in the shape of large pins that are positioned vertically into the ground at which the dam is to be located and having a diameter configured to match a diameter of a hole defined by a lower surface of the dam component, such as a precast dam component, to be installed at the location of the underpinning elements.
A spillway extender may be provided to prevent downstream erosion, where the spillway extender is configured to be integrally coupled to the precast dam components such that waterflow immediately downstream of the precast dam components do not cause the surface of riverbed to erode away, which may result in an instability of the dam components.
An adjustable pressure gate may be included or integrated into precast dam components such that water flow rate and pressure may be raised or lowered in any manner desired, such as to maintain a constant pressure across a turbine in the precast dam components during periods having a lower or expectedly lower rainfall or other precipitation such that the river or reservoir has a lower water height than usual. The gate may be mechanically, manually, or electrically adjustable.
The dam may further include an intelligent gear shifting apparatus that is used to change gears of the turbine or other rotational components such that the rotational forces may be increased or decreased in a manner most effective to translating the rate of waterflow across the rotational element to produce higher or lower conversion of rotation to electricity. A control system having intelligence may be employed to shift the gears in an adaptive manner.
In addition to the main energy generation turbines or other rotational elements used to generate energy, auxiliary energy generation sources may be employed to provide energy for electrical components at the dam, where such auxiliary energy generation systems may include upstream or downstream mini- turbines or even solar panels configured at either side of a river at the dam.
In the case of precast dam components, the precast dam components may be configured as square or rectangular or other geometrical shaped structures that have interlocking features to enable multiple precast dam components to be interlocked together to form a unified dam. The interlocking features may include, for example, any male/female features known in the art, such that construction of the dam of the multiple components may be done quickly and efficiently at the site. Dividers upstream or downstream of the interlocking dam features and, in one embodiment, above spillway extenders associated with the dam or segmental components, may be provided to form multiple segmental spillways, which may add to longevity of the dam. Keyways may be employed to provide an interlocking feature for a male feature of the dividers such that good alignment with vertical walls of the segmental dam components may be provided and maintained. The dividers having an angle opening in a downstream direction may also or alternatively be provided on the upstream side of the dam to prevent debris or other objects from damaging or dislodging any of the segments of the dam or energy generation components therein.
FIG. 1 A is a high level diagram 100a of a river 110a in which multiple dams according to embodiments of the present invention may be employed, optionally including auxiliary power systems, such as solar panels 102a-l ...4 auxiliary power systems. Alternative example embodiments may include additional or different auxiliary power systems, such as wind turbines or mechanically powered systems. FIG. 1A further illustrates a river at which two dams 155a- 1,2 with power generation devices, such as turbines or water wheels (not shown), may be employed. In the diagram 100a, the dams 155a- 1,2 have associated therewith other power generators, referred to herein as auxiliary generators, which may be in the form of solar panels 102a-l ...4 or auxiliary water wheels (not shown).
During assembly of the dams, the precast segments 105a-l ...16 may be deployed while the river 110a, or other body of water, is flowing or while the river is diverted in some other path, depending upon the flow rate of the river, as should be understood in the art. The river bed 109a may be fitted with an underpinning system (not shown), such as vertically arranged cement rods or metallic rods that extend a certain depth into the riverbed, such as 6 feet or 20 feet, depending on the expected strength of the river, such that they may support the precast dam structure(s) to maintain the dams' segmental and collective positions in the riverbed. The precast structures 105a-l ... l l and 105a- 12- 16 may individually (i.e. , 105a-l, -2, ..., -16) define interlocking male or female components (not shown) such that they may be integrally configured with the underpinning elements (not shown). The dams 155a- 1,2 themselves may have single or multiple energy storage elements 119a- 1,2, such as batteries, that may accept electrical power or energy generated by the power generating elements associated with the dams 155a- 1,2, from which energy may later be drawn for use in various applications, such as those involved with generating power at the dam or used to provide electricity for residences (not shown), municipals, or power grids. Inverters (not shown) may be employed to convert DC power of the energy storage elements 119a- 1,2 to AC power, or AC power may be provided directly by the turbines of the dams.
Because a dam may be formed of multiple precast dam components, construction and assembly of the dams is significantly reduced such that multiple dams along a river, optionally in very close proximity, may be provided at significantly lower cost than were a single, large, dam structure and associated power generation and storage equipment constructed on the same waterway. Such reduction in costs may lend itself to a distributed energy power
generation/storage/delivery system that may be more convenient, economical, and otherwise useful to a local or widespread region.
FIG. IB is a high level diagram 100b of an example embodiment of the present invention that illustrates an upstream water control system interconnected to a precast segmented access path for traversing and interacting with the dam system. The diagram 100b illustrates an assembled dam 155b of an embodiment of the present invention including interconnected precast dam structures 105b-l ...4. The precast structures 105b-l ...4 may further include buttress walls 116b- 1-2, which may be configured to include suction capabilities and may be connected to or located near spillways 118b- 1,2. The spillways 118b- 1,2 may be segmental precast constructs, which may be assembled during or after the assembly of the dam or dam segments. The dam 155b may further include or be interconnected with precast sections of additional segmental structures, such as walkways or roadways, which may be linked using a bolt linkage system, keyway method, or other known interlocking method.
The dam 155b may further include an energy source, such as solar panel
102b, which may include a land or ground mounted dual axis solar tracking system. Details of a dual axis solar tracker are described further in Applicant's pending U.S. Patent Application (Serial Number not yet assigned) being filed concurrently herewith, entitled "Dual Tower Solar Tracker System" by William L. French, Sr., which claims priority to U.S. Provisional Application No. 61/477,354 filed on April 20, 2011, and is related to and incorporated by reference U.S. Provisional
Application No. 61/327,500 filed on April 23, 2010 entitled "Dual Tower Solar Tracker System" by William L. French, Sr.; the entire teachings of the above applications being incorporated herein by reference in their entireties. Continuing to refer to the example embodiment of FIG. IB, the dam 155b may further include or be interconnected with a water gate control unit 120b and/or an adjustable water gate 125b, which may be operated individually or simultaneously.
The example embodiment of the dam 155b of FIG. IB may include a segmented ballast base support system that may be configured on, around, or over unstable ground in a manner providing for a precast access ramp 115b that may be implemented to connect opposite embankments of the waterway through which the dam is located. The segmented precast support system may further allow for a fish ladder (or fishway) 119b to pass through or down the structure surrounding the dam system so as to enable fish to pass around the barrier to the waters on the other side of the dam. The precast access ramps may interconnect an access road 121b that may be constructed on location using precast segmental system. Details of the segmented ballast base support structure are described further in pending U.S. Patent Application No. 12/658,608 filed on February 9, 2010, entitled "Segmented Ballast Base Support Structure and Rail and Trolley Structures for Unstable Ground" by William L. French, Sr. The entire teachings of which are incorporated herein by reference.
The precast segmented support structure system and method may be used to incorporate a precast guard rail 117b, precast spillway with buttress wall 1 16b, precast curb 114b, splash wall 113b, or public or private walkway 112b, and any or all of which may be surrounded by or laid on top of an uneven or unstable ground structure, such as grass, mud, slanted ground, etc.
Example embodiments of the present invention provide a support structure for such power generation devices that can be placed or built upon unstable ground, generally considered to be ground having low bearing capacities ("unstable ground"). The support structure provided applies low ground pressure based on its ability to distribute weight across its entire bottom surface area with substantially equal distribution and without penetrating the unstable ground or cap thereon or penetrating the unstable ground but in acceptable or environmentally friendly manner. Thus, embodiments of the present invention help solve political and land availability problems regarding renewable energy power generation technologies.
Fig. 1C is a diagram of a structure site 171 employing an example embodiment of the present invention that includes the ground treatment 167, formed of a coarse or fine granular material or compound 185, which itself may be positioned on a pliable material 180 that is placed on the unstable ground 161, and base support structure 165 on which a free standing superstructure 175 is installed. The free-standing superstructure 175 can be a solar power collection assembly 178 using any commercially available or custom designed free-standing superstructure components, such as a shaft or pole 176, or multiples thereof, to which a static or dynamic device can be attached, such as a solar panel array 177 or wind turbine (not shown), respectively.
The base support structure 165 can be assembled using multiple segments 190a, 190b, which may be assembled using multiple segment elements 195a-l ...4 and 195b- 1...4, attached via linkages and interconnection features in order to form a unified base support structure, which is simply a base support structure in an assembled state. The terms "base support structure" and "unified base support structure" may be used interchangeably herein.
The base support structure 165 can be cementitious and precast at an off-site location for transportation to the unstable ground location. Alternatively, casting may be done in situ. Further, the base support structure 165 can be made of other materials, such as metals, or combination of materials. Regardless of the manufacturing process or materials, assembly or partial assembly can be done at the structure sites 171, allowing for low cost transportability and handleability, among the technical benefits provided by the segmented base support structure 165.
Further, because the base support structure 165 can be placed on the surface of the unstable ground, no digging, excavation, or filling of the unstable ground is necessary. In other words, the base support structure can be precast to whatever size and form necessary, in as many segments or segment elements as is necessary, and be transported in multiple segments for unification on site. Using this "segments" and "segment elements" approach makes realizable a base support structure that would otherwise be a massive and extremely heavy apparatus and, potentially, not be transportable.
Once the multiple segments and segment elements according to an embodiment of the present invention are linked via linkages (not shown) on the unstable ground 161, the segments form a unified base support structure 165 that acts as both a unified structure and, in some embodiments, a distributed segment structure, generally dispersing weight and other forces evenly across the structure and ground unless otherwise configured. In cases in which the base support structure 165 is positioned on muddy surfaces, the base support structure 165 may take advantage of suction (i.e. , at each segment or segment element). If the segments or segment elements have gaps therebetween, the suction locations can be considered distributed, allowing the structure 165 to withstand loss of suction forces at a subset of segments or segment elements, such as due to erosion of soil beneath the subset. Because the base support structure 165 is unified yet distributes weight, it can be capable of withstanding extreme conditions, such as high winds 162a, earthquakes 162b, and blizzard conditions 162c, while maintaining its integrity and supporting the free-standing superstructure 175 in a substantially stable orientation.
FIG. 2A is a mechanical diagram 200a of multiple segmental precast dam components arranged together to form a composite of the segmental dam 205a- 1...4. FIG. 2A illustrates the waterflow 208a to a dam formed of the precast segments 205a-l ...4. The precast segments 205a-l ...4 may be interlocked in any way understood in the art, such as through composite component structures precast into the cement, affixed into the precast cement, or otherwise understood in the art, including elements coupled to the precast structures after the precast structures have been formed. A mechanical knob, leaver, or other device (not shown) may be provided with the collective or component structure(s) to raise and lower turbines or other rotational elements in the dam to accommodate the height of water flowing therethrough. Further, mechanical elements may be provided to raise and lower gates associated with the collective dam or components thereof such that the height of water flowing into or out of the dam may be controlled mechanically. It should be understood that automated electrical raising and lowering of the rotational elements or gates may also be employed, where sensors and activation elements, such as linear or rotational motors and motion support assemblies, may also be employed. It should be understood that any electronics or mechanical elements may be sufficiently protected against the elements, particularly in the environment of water and water-related elements.
FIG. 2B is a diagram 200b of a single precast dam (e.g., dam component) 205b having a hydroelectric energy generation system and a gearing system 227b to change a rate of rotation of the electrical generator for a given rate of waterflow. The mechanical diagram 200b is a single segment for hydroelectric energy generation system that may be used in a multiple segmental group to define a dam on a waterway of arbitrary width. The diagram of FIG. 2B further includes an indicator of a gear system 227b that may be used to change the rate of rotation of any rotational elements used in the power generation portion of the dam. The diagram also includes an indication of a shaft or shaft system 226b to transfer mechanical energy to electrical energy (transformer not shown) such that electrical energy is produced and transferred via electrical cables (not shown) or other conductive components to a battery storage or otherwise to a power distribution system to reach an end user.
FIG. 2C is a side view 200c of a dam according to an embodiment of the present invention in which a rotary wheel (e.g., a turbine) 231c used for converting waterflow to electrical energy is employed, where the waterflow travels beneath the wheel 231c to cause a rotation, and, optionally, causes auxiliary wheels, such as auxiliary wheel 232c, to rotate to generate auxiliary power. The example embodiment of FIG. 2C further illustrates water flowing from left to right over a vertical component of an upstream side of the segmental dam and beneath (or over) a water wheel or turbine or other rotational element in a manner causing rotation of the rotational element, which, in turn, causes a movement of an electromagnetic component with respect to another electromagnetic component in a manner known to generate electricity. The example embodiment of FIG. 2C further illustrates an auxiliary wheel 232c to generate electricity for use in providing power for electrical components used at the dam, itself. FIG. 2C further includes vertical elements 233 c- 1 ,2 that extend from beneath the riverbed through a floor 206c of a dam component to a ceiling 207c of a dam component such that the vertical elements 233 c- 1,2 provide structural stability and reinforcement against the dam's moving along the riverbed while water is at a high rate of flow.
Example embodiments of the vertical elements 233 c- 1,2 may further provide structural stability from ground movement, water pressure, wind flow, and other external or internal factors that can affect the structural integrity or stability of the dam components. The vertical elements, for example, pins, may be any diameter, length or shape, configured to be interconnected with the precast dam component 205c. Further, as shown, the precast dam component 205c may include other precast dam elements that form upstream or downstream features associated with the dam components such that upstream or downstream erosion of the riverbed does not occur or is otherwise minimized. For example, a spillway extender, such as the spillway system 218a-l illustrated in FIG. 2 A, being downstream or upstream of the dam component may extend many feet, such as 10 feet or more, in certain river situations.
FIG. 2D is a diagram 200d of a top view of a single precast segment 205d of a hydroelectric dam system that illustrates features fore and aft of the dam to interlock the precast segment with other precast segments, spillway extenders, or other interlocking components. FIG. 2D further illustrates an example configuration of a water wheel or turbine 23 Id within the precast structure and illustrates other structural features of the precast structure. For example, the precast structure may define holes 229d-l .. A through which pins extending into the riverbed and up through the bottom {e.g. , floor) and, optionally, the top (e.g. , ceiling) of the precast structure may be provided. The holes 229d-l .. A may be oversized and filled-in with cement or other filler (not shown) such that ease of integration and deployment may be experienced at the site of installation. In alternative example embodiments, the holes 229d-l .. A may be integrated into the precast structure 205d or may be later installed or carved out as needed during onsite or offsite installation or interconnection. The fore and aft of the precast structure 205d may include slots 228d and 224d such that upstream and downstream components, such as spillway extenders (not shown), may be structurally or mechanically coupled to the precast segment 205d in a simple, convenient, and structurally sound manner. Although not illustrated, slots to interconnect the precast segment with other precast segments may be provided on the sides, top, or bottom of the precast structure, where the slots may run parallel to or perpendicular with the river flow.
The slots 228d and 224d and corresponding mating-shaped pintles (now shown) on other segments may be interchangeably referred to herein as
"interlocking elements." Alternatively, separate mechanical elements (not shown) may be provided as interlocking elements, where the precast segments may have the same slots 228d and 224d and an interlocking element slide into neighboring slots simultaneously to form a solid mating of adjacent precast segments
FIG. 3 is a mechanical diagram 300 illustrating upstream and downstream spillway structures that may be precast and assembled along with the precast segmental dam structures. The mechanical diagram 300 illustrates multiple precast segments 305a-f inter-connected with each other to form a dam 355 in the collective. The dam 355, as illustrated, includes no gaps between each of the precast segments 305a-f so as to force all water (not shown) through the water flow pathways, such as waterflow pathway 323 of the precast segment 305b, defined by each of the precast segments, thereby ensuring all water contributes to the rotation of the power generators (not shown) within each of the segments. It should be understood that the power generators may be positioned in the precast segmental structures in a manner using all or just a portion of the water flowing through the precast segments and that certain ones of the precast segments may, alternatively, not be equipped with power generating components.
Continuing to refer to FIG. 3, the example embodiment also shows tapering
(or increasing, depending on one's perspective) dividers 361 a-f between segments that are configured above the spillways 318a-e and aligned with vertical walls, such as the vertical buttress or brace walls 316a-g of the segmental dam components. The example embodiments of dividers 361 a-f may be precast as part of a debris protection system 360 and installed as may be warranted via linkages, such as a bolt system 340a-d, for example, where the dividers may be galvanized H beam dividers. The dividers 361 a-f are typically positioned on the upstream side of the dam such that any downstream-flowing debris or structures, such as boats or swimmers, ride up above the dam to prevent damage to the dam, segmented components of the dam, power generation devices therein, or other elements interconnected to the dam.
Thus, flowing water that forces debris, such as large branches, will push the debris upward on top of or over the dam rather than into vertical buttresses of the dam or power generation devices in the dam. This makes for a longer life dam structure than were the dividers not provided.
Alternative example embodiments of the dividers 361a-f may provide for dividers consisting of a variety of materials, shapes, lengths, and other attributes as may be favorable based on the dam location. In alternative example embodiments of the present invention, the dividers may be separately installed into slots, pathways, or other such areas of the precast segments in such a manner as to include a malleable element, such as a spring or shock absorbing component, such that the dam or dam components receive less of an impact of flowing or moving debris, thereby allowing for a more structurally sound dam. It should be understood that the dividers may be placed in some or all of the precast segments at varying or similar configurations, angles, widths, etc.
Alternative example embodiments of example embodiment of FIG. 3 may include a shaft control system 326 to provide for the operation of a water gate 325 as a mechanism for allowing or prohibiting the free flow of a liquid (e.g. , water) through the precast segments via the waterflow path way (e.g. , waterflow pathway 323) in a manner that enables controlled operation. The shaft control system 326 may be operated manually, automatically, or in any such manner preferable on a per- site or dam location basis.
FIG. 4 is a group of mechanical diagrams 400 of spillway structural elements, including vertical and horizontal elements, which include keyway lock and support structures. The mechanical diagrams 400 further illustrate embodiments of features in the spillways and vertical components of the segments of the dam to enable the dividers, such as dividers 361a-f of FIG. 3, to interlock with the dam in a manner maintaining as much integrity as possible and in a manner that allows for ease of assembly at the site of the dam. The dam may be configured and/or assembled to include a section including a debris shield system 460 that includes dividers, such as H beams, 462a-b. The components and/or elements of the dam may be interconnected using linkage bolts 440 and/or other linkage element(s) to form a linkage system. The linkage system may be configured to interlock multiple components using the same or different dimensions and positions of the
interconnection systems.
Alternative example embodiments of the diagrams 400 may include additional locking mechanisms, such as the keyway lock and support system 471, for providing structural integrity and reinforcement to the sides, bottoms, and tops of the dam component elements. The keyway locking mechanisms may be
interconnected via different methods; for example, the keyway locks may include a female and male component that may be interlocked. Additional elements may be employed to provide manual and/or automatic control for the dam employing control gates, gears, shafts, and other control devices currently known or hereinafter developed as applicable to a dam or dam component. Such elements are usually located on the upstream side of the dam; however, alternative embodiments of the present invention may have the dam components, elements, and precast structures arranged in various or adjustable configurations based on any number of external or internal factors, such as varying weather patterns at the dam location.
The example embodiment of FIG. 4 may include a unit 421 for lifting and lowering the control gears, which may be operably interconnected to a gear plate 427. The example embodiment of the controls may further include a shaft 424 employing interlocking techniques, such as using a keyway locking mechanism, optionally interconnected to guide roller 425 and/or a control gate support bracket 422 for enabling movement and control of the system. Alternative example embodiments may include features originally integrated into the precast structures or elements configured to be later applied or constructed to the precast structure(s).
FIG. 5 is a group of mechanical diagrams 500 illustrating alternative features and embodiments of the dam assembly according to embodiments of the present invention. FIG. 5 includes multiple aspects of the precast segmental dam
components, such as the turbine system, linkages between segments 540a-i, interconnecting features between segments 541a-g, adjustable wooden board gate system 549 or other material for water height or flow control, spillway 516 and spillway segments 518, linkage features between the spillway and segments 546, interconnecting linkages between cement or metal components of the segments and/or spillways, and example sizes of the precast structures. Further system components may include a water gate 529 to adjust water flow (for example, such as the water gate 529 being in an open position 525 thereby allowing water to flow through at different rates), and shaft and drive hole for interconnecting pinning elements on the top, sides, and bottom of the precast segments. It should be understood that the sizes of any of the dam components may vary such that they are suitable for the width, depth and flow rate of the waterway and provide ease of transportation, deployment, and interlocking assembly at the site of the dam.
FIG. 6 is a flow chart 600 of an embodiment of the present invention that illustrates a method of dam assembly. The flow diagram 600 allows for a method of interconnecting at least two precast dam segments to a main energy generation component coupled to an energy transfer bus (680). The example method of flow diagram 600 further allows the joining of at least two precast segments via at least one interlocking element, such as a bolt or linkage system, or other such slot mechanism, to form a dam at a dam location (681).
FIG. 7 is a flow diagram 700 of an embodiment of the present invention that illustrates components involved in assembling a dam of the present invention. After beginning, the method of flow diagram 700 enables interconnecting at least two precast segments to a main energy generation component coupled to an energy transfer bus (780) and joining the precast segments via at least one interlocking element to form a dam at a dam location (781). The method 700 may allow for installing at least two precast segments while a substance flow is diverted, partially diverted, or flowing without diversion (782) and joining the two precast segments via at least one interlocking element to form a dam at a dam location (783). The method 700 may further allow the precast segments to be operably interconnected to at least one terrestrial component (784) and installing an underpinning unit into the ground or base of a surface at the dam location (785). The method 700 may further be configured to enable the maintaining of a connection component at a lower surface of the precast segments (786). Further, the example method 700 may allow for connecting the underpinning unit with at least one of the precast segments via at least one connection element (787). The method 700 may further enable the employing of a spillway extender, integrally coupled to at least one of the at least two precast segments (788). The method may further provide for a constant pressure across the energy generation component via an adjustable pressure gate (789). Such an example method 700 may enable providing energy for at least one electrical component at the dam location via an auxiliary energy generation component (790) and further allow for shifting at least one gear of the energy generation component in such a manner as to translate a rate of waterflow via a gear shifting unit (791). It should be noted that the example method 700 may be performed in alternative manner using a similar or different order of operation as may be seen, for example, in FIG. 7.
Although not illustrated in detail in the figures, a structure that houses storage elements, such as batteries, may be constructed, optionally with precast elements, at the site of the dam or a short distance away, with energy generated by energy generating devices at or within the dam to be connected to the energy storage devices via electrical cables or other power transfer means.
Further, although not illustrated in the diagrams, any form of controller, such as general-purpose microprocessor, signal processor, hardware, software, or other elements that may be used to control electro-mechanical elements, may be employed to operate any of the electro-mechanical elements described herein.
Other example embodiments of the present invention may include a non- transitory computer readable medium containing instruction that may be executed by a processor, and, when executed, cause the processor to perform different functions, for example, to change the height of the gate used to control water height or flow, change the gear ratio of gears coupled to a water wheel or turbine, or even control any electrical elements associated with energy transfer to the energy storage elements or to the energy grid to which energy is or may be transferred. It should be understood that elements of the block and flow diagrams described herein may be implemented in software, hardware, firmware, or other similar implementation determined in the future. In addition, the elements of the block and flow diagrams described herein may be combined or divided in any manner in software, hardware, or firmware. If implemented in software, the software may be written in any language that may support the example embodiments disclosed herein. The software may be stored in any form of computer readable medium, such as random access memory (RAM), read only memory (ROM), compact disk read only memory (CD-ROM), and so forth. In operation, a general purpose or application specific processor loads and executes software in a manner well understood in the art. It should be understood further that the block and flow diagrams may include more or fewer elements, be arranged or oriented differently, or be represented differently. It should be understood that implementation may dictate the block, flow, and/or network diagrams and the number of block and flow diagrams illustrating the execution of embodiments of the invention.
Further, any form of solar paneling may be employed, including solar trackers and any other auxiliary power systems may be employed to provide the energy, or backup of energy, for operating the electronics that may be associated with the dam, as disclosed herein.
Multi-Tower Energy Generation System
An embodiment of the present invention includes a dual tower assembly and system, where the "assembly" refers to the mechanical arrangements and the "system" refers to a combination of electrical and mechanical components used for structural and functional operation. It should be understood that the terms may be used interchangeably herein. The dual tower assembly may be configured to support solar panels, for example, and rotate the solar panels in multiple axes, including vertical and horizontal axes of rotation. The vertical axis of rotation allows the dual tower assembly to rotate the solar panels in an axis perpendicular to the ground (i.e., the Earth's surface local to the assembly on which the dual tower assembly is mounted) or other surface on which the dual tower assembly is mounted to track the sun on its east-to-west path during the day; and the horizontal axis of rotation allows the solar panels to track the sun's elevation from sunrise through sunset. Alternative example embodiments of the present invention enable the solar panels to rotate around the x-, y-, and z-axes (in roll, pitch, and yaw Cartesian coordinate system directions, or other coordinate system directions) at varying angles and degrees. Because the dual tower assembly has two towers, the entire tower assembly is mounted to a rotating platform, in some example embodiments, and driven by a motor or other actuating stimulus to rotate the entire assembly, including dual towers and solar panels, about its vertical axis.
In one embodiment, the solar panels may be folded in one or multiple directions on a single side of the dual tower assembly or on multiple sides of the dual tower assembly, such that two solar panels may be facing each other or facing away from each other in folded configurations. Hinges that are capable of supporting the weight and rotation of the solar panels are employed in a folding configuration assembly.
The base of the dual tower assembly provides sufficient ballast as to be able to maintain an upright position under extreme wind or weather conditions, and may include assembly components, such as outriggers or ground mounting elements, such as rods extending several feet into the ground, to maintain stability. Further, the dual tower solar tracker system may include inverters and energy storage, such as batteries, optionally physically positioned on the base between the dual towers or elsewhere. Cables or other elements may be included to transfer the electrical energy generated by the solar panels to location(s) away from the dual tower tracker system for storage or use.
Any forms of gears or other rotational elements may be employed to enable turning of the dual towers in a smooth manner or in a step-wise manner. A riser on which the dual tower assembly may be mounted, may also be provided, such as for use in areas having known environmental conditions for which solar panel systems should be raised, such as snowy regions or flood-prone regions.
Collections of solar panels may be provided and have a common energy storage facility or common energy transport capability, such as through cabling that travels serially or in parallel to each of the solar trackers.
It should be understood that the foregoing examples may similarly apply to other energy collection systems, such as wind turbine systems.
FIG. 8 is a diagram 1100 of a front view of a dual tower solar tracker system. The diagram 1100 includes example dimensions, such as 24 feet height and 80 feet width of a solar panel assembly; however, it should be understood that any size solar panel assembly may be accommodated by the dual tower assembly and system, assuming the dual towers are also appropriately sized and spaced. Mechanical and structural principles apply to supporting the solar panel assembly.
The dual tower assembly provides support that may not be captured by a single tower assembly, where the dual towers serve to provide a height-shortening feature and width-elongating feature of a solar panel array 1101 that may not be accomplished with a single tower design. Because of the difference in dimensions compared to a single tower design, the dual tower design is much better for providing energy support in low angular solar conditions, such as at sunrise or sunset, where shadows cast by the lower height solar panels affect exposure to sunlight of solar panels behind them to a much lesser degree, or, with only short risers needed between each successive row of solar panels, each successive row has full access to sunlight during an entire day and in an area and riser heights much less than with taller solar panels.
The dual tower design lends itself to changing of solar panels 1101 by simple coupling and decoupling of the solar panels 1101 in any usual method used in the art, such as through bolt-on structures and the like. The example embodiment of FIG. 8 may couple or connect the photovoltaic (PV) solar panel 1101 to a dual tower support brace 1129 that may connect a first tower 1130a and a second tower 1130b. The first and second towers 1130a-b may further be coupled, via linkage bolt systems or structurally interlaced elements, or other known methods of interlocking segments, to a precast structure created by the interconnected segmental precast segments 1120a-d. Further example embodiments of the present invention may be connected using more or fewer precast segments to create the base structure as may be needed or desired based on the environment, location, and other factors for consideration in designing the dual tower base 1199. Further example embodiments of the dual tower design may include a region on the base 1121 between the dual towers in which an inverter 1129 may be provided to convert electrical energy produced by the solar panels (not shown), where the inverter converts raw electrons provided by the solar panels into electrical energy that may be stored in storage elements 1159, such as batteries (not shown), or may be put onto electrical conduction cables for delivery to a power grid or to a power plant. FIG. 9 is a diagram 1200 of a side view of the dual tower design, which illustrates the dual towers, namely a first tower 1230a and a second tower 1230b, as coupled together at a base plate 1221 and at an upper end 1292, and, optionally, along the dual towers between the base and upper end 1291. The structures provide lateral stiffnesses for the dual towers; other stiffnesses are provided by the materials, dimensions, support structures, and other features of the dual towers, such that the dual towers collectively provide sufficient stiffnesses to support the solar panels in various orientations and during various weather conditions, such as periods of high winds.
The diagram 1200 of the tracker frame system may include a multitude of interconnected and/or coupled segments, structures, and elements, a few of which are explained directly below. The tracker assembly or system may be placed directly on the ground or surface, such as a stone surface 1223, where a stabilization fabric 1122 is placed below all of or some portion of the stone surface 1223. Precast segments 1220 may be placed, interconnected, or assembled on the ground surface using precast segmental concrete with low ground pressure ballast for minimal press or ground interference.
A base plate 1221 may be linked with slewing gears and bearings 1225, a drive gear 1224, or alternative mechanisms for connecting the tower structures to the base structures; the slewing gears and bearings 1225 and drive gear 1224 may be interconnected or coupled to the base plate, which is itself coupled to the precast segments, via a bolt linkage system or interlocking element(s). A drive gear motor 1228 may be operably interconnected to the drive gear 1224 and located on or around the tracker system, such as encompassed by a service panel 1227 for protecting the control system from external forces, such as inclement weather. The main frames 1230a-b form a defining structure of the dual axis solar tracker assembly, where the main frames may connect with the solar panel 1201 via at least one element, such as a horizontal beam 1217, first vertical beam 1216, and second vertical beam 1212, and may be linked via an adjustable linkage bracket 1211 and/or a pin-and-lock system connected with other elements of the tracker assembly. For a first tower (the second tower having a main frame as shown like the main frames 1230a-b or similar in structure) may be attached or connected to the base plate via multiple interconnecting methods, for example via bolt linkage systems or dual tower support braces 1229a-b, which provide additional structural support for the frames of the towers.
Further example embodiments of the present invention may include a solar collector 1202 operably interconnected to the solar panel 1201 via a solar collector pivot bracket 1214 or linkage bracket with or without pin locking systems 1213. The solar collector system may be further connected to a solar collector control box 1234 via a screw jack, electric screw jack support system with linkage 1232, and extra bracing support beam, for the main frame interconnected to the beams 1216 and 1217 to provide additional support based on internal or external forces acting on the dual tower tracker system. Such example embodiments may include additional linkage components as may be necessary to provide sound structural support for the tracker system, for example, including additional screw jack 1235 and jack linkages 1236 or other elements providing mechanisms for interlocking or linking
components of the structural elements described herein or currently known in the art.
In one example embodiment, the dual towers may be folded to be parallel with a surface of its base or a ground surface such that, in an event of unusually high winds, the solar panel array may be laid effectively flat with the ground. Further, the dual tower may provide enabling hinge characteristics, such as solar collector center tilt control beam 1237, either at the dual tower assembly or supporting hinging rotations of the solar panel structure such that each solar panel may be rotated inward toward or outward from other solar panel(s). Folding-up the solar panels during periods of non-use or periods of inclement weather adds longevity to the solar panels.
The dual tower assembly supports rotation of the solar panel array around vertical and horizontal axes such that the dual tower assembly may cause the solar panel array to track the sun for optimized solar collection and power conversion. A motor or other activation mechanism may be employed to rotate the solar panels around either axis. It should be understood that for ease of rotation around either the vertical or horizontal axes, the solar panel assembly is preferably balanced such that rotation is made mechanically possible with as little power as necessary. However, it should be understood that less than optimized rotational characteristics, such as an unbalanced mass configuration, may also be supported by the dual tower assembly.
Alternative example embodiments of the present invention may include the solar panel arrays being interconnected to the dual tower assembly system and may be configured to prove energy collected directly to the dual tower system, after such energy is converted, such that the dual tower system may be self-powered. Where an inverter converts raw electrons provided by the solar panels into electrical energy that may be stored in storage elements, such as batteries (not shown), or may be put onto electrical conduction cables for use by the same or separate dual tower systems.
FIG. 10 is a diagram 1300 of a top view that illustrates a rotational base having a main slewing gear 1339 or series of slewing gears to enable rotation of a platform, on which the dual towers may be configured, or a rotational base, such as base plate 1321, which may be created from a series of precast ballast segments 1320a-c, to which the dual towers (not shown) may be mechanically coupled in a truss-supported arrangement. The dual towers may further be interconnected with the base plate, or a riser plate 1349, via tower support connections 1330a-b. As illustrated, there may be a single- or dual-motor design 1328a-b that is connected to the rotating platform 1348 such that the dual towers may rotate the solar assembly (not shown) in a 360°, or more or fewer degree, range.
FIG. 11 is a diagram 1400 that illustrates a side view of a base riser 1449 of an example embodiment of the present invention that may be employed in environments in which inclement weather conditions occur, such as flooding 1466, blizzard conditions 1467, high winds 1468, or earthquake conditions 1469. The base of the twin tower (not shown) may be mechanically or structurally connected to the top of the riser 1449, or the entire riser 1449 may form a turntable type system. The dual towers or assembly or system may be mechanically or structurally connected to the riser on the sides of the riser or top of the riser.
It should be understood that, although described herein as a dual tower assembly, there may be more than two towers, such as three, four, or more towers, depending on size, configuration (e.g. , width or height), or other parameters of the solar panel structure. In the case of having more than two towers, it should be understood that rotating the solar panels around a horizontal axis is different from a dual axis design since at least one of the solar panels would fold into a tower or multiple towers during rotation. Therefore, in the case of a three or more tower assembly, a truss system with axis hinge or other to a structure (not shown) that enables single-axis or universal-axes rotation is employed. In some embodiments, the multiple towers may be connected together by trusses or other stiffening members such that the towers act uniformly to support any rotation that may occur with the solar panel assembly and also support the solar panel assembly in any normal or unusual orientation.
FIG. 12 is a diagram 1500 that illustrates multiple dual tower solar tracker systems 1599a-l that may be offset from each other spatially such that shadows 1554 cast from the sun 1570 by a first row 1551 do not impact or minimally impact solar collection by a row of solar panels behind the first row, such as a second row of panels 1552 or a third row of panels 1553. Because the heights of the solar panels may be significantly lower with the dual tower tracker design as compared to a single tower tracker design, spacing between rows may be significantly reduced as compared to single tower designs that may not support the lower height, larger width configuration of the solar panels. Since there are two towers in the dual tower design, the base requires rotation for two-axis tracking of the sun; however, this added complexity may be worth the expense in some space-limited environments.
A base support structure, such as one disclosed in U.S. Patent Application
No. 12/658,606, entitled "Segmented Ballast Base Support Structure and Rail and Trolley Structures for Unstable Ground" by William L. French, Sr. filed on February 10, 2010, the entire teachings of which are incorporated herein by reference, may be employed to support the dual tower assembly for use on landfills, brownfields, or other unstable grounds.
Alternative example embodiments of the diagram 1500 may include the multiple dual tower solar tracker systems being configured with mirrored backings (e.g. , on the reverse side of the solar panel array) and/or mirrored base support structures, such that the reflection of light off of the mirrored structures of one system may be received by surrounding system(s).
FIG. 13 is a flow chart 1600 of an embodiment of the present invention that illustrates a method of configuring a dual tower system. After beginning, the flow chart 1600 configures two towers to support a solar panel assembly (1661). The method of flow chart 600 further configures a platform, interconnected to a base support structure, to rotate dual towers in a manner enable the dual towers to rotate about an axis (1662).
FIG. 14 is a flow diagram 1700 of an embodiment of the present invention that illustrates a method of configuring or implementing a dual tower support system. After beginning, the method of the flow diagram 1700 may configure two towers to support a solar panel assembly (1771) and configure a platform, interconnected to a base support structure, to rotate dual towers in a manner enable the dual towers to rotate about an axis (1772). The example method may further configure the supporting structure to operate on an unstable surface (1773), where the supporting structure is coupled to one of: a vehicle, transportation device, unstable grounds, and separably moveable parts (1774). The method 1700 may further enable each solar panel assembly to fold on at least one plane, or axis (1775). In other example embodiments of the flow diagram 1700, the method may connect at least two structures to support one solar panel assembly in a manner that causes the supporting structure to dynamically engage the solar energy collection system to roll, pitch, and yaw (1776). The method 1700 may further rotate the dual towers in a stable manner when mounted on a supporting structure (1777) and/or provide, at the base support system, sufficient ballast so as to maintain the dual towers in an upright position (1778). Additional example embodiments of the flow diagram 1700 may connect the dual towers to an energy storage device configured to store energy generated by the solar panel assembly (1779) and/or transfer energy generate by the solar power assembly away from the solar energy collection system (1780).
It should be known by one skilled in the art that the method of flow diagram
1700 may be performed in any manner or order that may be useful to implement example embodiments of the present invention.
Alternative solar collector or system of solar collectors such as example embodiments of the dual axis solar tracker system of the present invention may be equipped with varying systems and units, such as non-ground penetrating support systems and low ground pressure support systems (e.g., support systems with limited foot print). Further example embodiments of such solar collectors may be incorporated into landfills, brownfields, and/or superfund sites that are beneficial locations for such example embodiments of the present invention but may be require support systems that are capable of being implemented in unstable ground, such as a segmented ballast support system. Details of the segmented ballast base support structure are described further in pending U.S. Patent Application No. 12/658,608 filed on February 9, 2010, entitled "Segmented Ballast Base Support Structure and Rail and Trolley Structures for Unstable Ground" by William L. French, Sr. The entire teachings of which are incorporated herein by reference.
Alternative example embodiments of the present invention may be configured to withstand varying inclement external conditions, whether natural or man-made; for example, example embodiments may be earthquake resistant and capable of withstanding heavy winds. Further example embodiments of the present invention may be designed to provide various sizes and kilowatt power outputs, or other such outputs as are currently known or hereinafter developed for the use of solar power systems. The example embodiments may include wireless control systems that may be manual or automated for control of the solar tracking systems. The control system may further be enabled to be powered by direct electric connection, battery powered, or self-actuating based on the energy collected and converted from the solar tracking systems attached to the control systems.
Further example embodiments of the present invention may include a non- transitory computer readable medium containing instruction that may be executed by a processor, and, when executed, causes the processor to perform different functions, such as causing a control system to rotate solar panels in multiple axes and/or rotate a support structure or base in a manner as to rotate the connected solar panels. It should be understood that elements of the block and flow diagrams described herein may be implemented in software, hardware, firmware, or other similar
implementation determined in the future. In addition, the elements of the block and flow diagrams described herein may be combined or divided in any manner in software, hardware, or firmware. If implemented in software, the software may be written in any language that may support the example embodiments disclosed herein. The software may be stored in any form of computer readable medium, such as random access memory (RAM), read only memory (ROM), compact disk read only memory (CD-ROM), and so forth. In operation, a general purpose or application specific processor loads and executes software in a manner well understood in the art. It should be understood further that the block and flow diagrams may include more or fewer elements, be arranged or oriented differently, or be represented differently. It should be understood that implementation may dictate the block, flow, and/or network diagrams and the number of block and flow diagrams illustrating the execution of embodiments of the invention.
Mobile Energy Generation System
An example embodiment of the present invention includes a truck equipped with foldable solar panel assemblies that can be transported and deployed in a simple and effective manner. The solar panel assemblies may be foldable in any number of ways to fold and retract the solar panels when not in use. For example, the solar panels can be folded along a single axis or multiple parallel or nonparallel axes.
A lift system, such as hydraulic, pneumatic, electromechanical, or fully mechanical piston system, can be configured to raise a folded or unfolded assembly of the solar panel assemblies above the chassis of the truck and, optionally, rotate the solar panel assemblies to be directed at the source of solar energy, typically the sun, or be configured to track the position of the sun, or other energy source, automatically. Alternatively, the solar panel assemblies may be interspersed or otherwise assembled with mirror assembly components such that the solar panels can collect energy from the sun directly or via reflection of sunlight by the mirrors onto the solar panels. In such an embodiment, the structure associated with the piston system, which may be a single or multi-piston system, may be configured to support the mirror and solar panel assembly in a uniform or distributed manner.
The truck or trailer may have a stabilizing system with extendable arms to enhance its stability during periods where the solar panels are raised, and the stabilizing system may also provide weight bearing capability to offset weight from the truck or trailer. The system enables the shape and number of solar panels to be scalable in technology, power production, size, and other features or parameters associated with solar panels. For example, the piston system can rotate at individual piston segments or have a base that rotates the entire piston system such that a multi- piston system can be rotated about a central axis to enable rotation of the solar panels.
The truck or trailer (i. e. , mobile transport system) may include an assembly having an inverter to convert the collected and converted solar power into energy that can be stored in batteries or directly transmitted along cabling to systems that use the energy locally or distribute the energy, such as via a power grid, to systems that use the energy remotely.
The solar panel system may have auxiliary power cells that are positioned at a portion of the solar panel assembly (e.g. , on a rear face of a solar panel that is facing upward in a folded configuration of the solar panel system) or structure supporting same such that the auxiliary power cells themselves collect and provide power to the piston system to enable the piston system to unfold and raise a solar collector frame having the bulk of the solar panel cells. It should be understood that the hydraulics provided by the truck can also be employed, and, further, energy provided by the truck, including power generated by the truck's engine, can be employed to provide power to enable the piston system to unfold and raise the solar collection panels.
An energy storage system, such as a battery storage system, can further be provided on a utility trailer such that a megawatt or more of energy can be stored from either a single truck assembly or from multiple truck assemblies collected in a single or multiple area(s).
The construction of the trailer or track may include features to transport the retracted and folded solar collection assembly along bumpy roads or up and down steep inclines. It should also be understood that the truck may employ any amount of dampening, such as air bearings, to transport the solar panel system safely from site to site.
FIG. 15A is a diagram 2100a of a side view of a mobile transport system, for example a truck 21 10a with trailer having a foldable solar collector frame 2101a in a transport position with solar panels to collect solar energy and convert the solar energy into useful electrical energy. The frame in the embodiment of FIG. 15A is folded along a single axis such that the solar panels face each other during transport. The solar panels may be connected together at the top portion away from the trailer to connect the solar panels together for structural stability during transport. The folding occurs at a hinge assembly 2102a that is heavy duty to provide sufficient structural support for the solar panels and also provides a sufficient amount of rotation to open the solar panels to a near flat, flat, concave or convex position.
The trailer may further include a rotating slewing gear assembly optionally with an air bearing system 2105a to provide 360° of rotation of the solar panel collectors to enable tracking the sun in any orientation of the truck or trailer.
Further, the trailer includes a pistoning system 2107a, which may be hydraulic, pneumatic, or electro-mechanical. The pistoning system 2107a may be telescoping in that there may be multiple segments of the pistoning system or just a single segment of the pistoning system. Further, the truck 2110a may include a travel support bracket 2104a or multiple travel support brackets to offioad some of the weight of the solar panels from the pistoning system fore and aft of the pistoning system, and possibly laterally, depending on the travel configuration of the solar paneling during transport. Further, the pistoning system may be mounted to an assembly including a drive motor and drive gear 2106a to enable rotating the solar panels in a retracted or operational configuration.
FIG. 15B is a diagram 2100b of a side view of a mobile transport system, such as a truck 2110b, with trailer 2111b and solar collector frame assembly 2130b in an unfolded state. The solar panel may allow for dual axis solar tracking and include battery storage 2125b on the trailer or other mobile transport for tactical deployment. The solar panel array 2129b may have a pivot point 2126b and heavy- duty hinge system 2128b with a main support being pinned to the solar panel array. The solar panel array may be foldable in one or multiple axes while transforming from the retracted travel configuration to the unfolded operational configuration. Further, the dimensions of the array may be, for example purposes only, 32 feet by 42 feet, but may be larger or smaller depending on the application, mobile transport size, and other factors, such as power requirements and expected transport pathways, such as used in an urban or rural environment. Further, the assembly may include a tracker control system 2124b that is electrically coupled to the drive motor system 2105b and optionally connected to a gear box 118b, rotating slewing bearing system 2121b, inverter control panel 2117b, and other known or useful controls systems and components to control rotation of the drive motor system to steer the antenna anywhere in the direction of the sun or other source, including, for example, a mirror (not shown) reflecting the sun.
It should be understood that the solar panel array may be mounted to a frame made of any materials, which may be any metal or nonmetal, and may have stiffness properties such that individual panels do not bend beyond their accepted tolerances. Examples of materials include aluminum and stainless steel, titanium, graphite or other composite and other materials known in the art for providing structural stability to thin materials covering large surface areas, such as the solar panels in the present example.
FIG. 16 is a diagram 2200 of multiple views of the solar mobile transport system in which outriggers 2240 and 2243 that are retractable and may include hydraulic lifts 2241 and 2244 at the end of the pistons to provide structural support and balance for the mobile transportation system. The outriggers can be of any length desired or required to provide the level of support and, optionally, weight bearing, required.
In some example embodiments of the diagram 2200, before a solar tracker system is deployed from a traveling state to an operational state in the mobile transport system, all stabilizers must be deployed to balance the mobile system. Further stabilizers may include a ground plate 2242 or other such forms of stabilization as is currently known or hereinafter developed as may be useful for a mobile transport system and trailer mounted with a fixed tracking solar panel.
Alternative example embodiments of the solar collector folding into a retracted position, such as the solar collector of FIG. 15B and another alternative embodiment of the solar collector folded in a ready state to be deployed or redeployed to the operational position. These alternative example embodiments may include similar features as the mobile transport device as in FIG. 15B, such as drive motors and drive gears 2205, hydraulic lift tracker support pistons 2220, rotating slewing gear and bearing system 2221, industrial control system with intelligent management software 2222, a tracker control system 2224, a battery storage system 2225, and any additional or combination of systems and components as may be useful in the transport of a solar system, such as the dual axis solar tracking system of FIG. 15 A.
FIG. 17 is a diagram 2300 that illustrates a rear view of the mobile transport system 2310 and trailer 2311 using a solar panel array having two axes of rotation: one axis on a left edge of a horizontal solar panel and another axis on a right edge of the horizontal solar panel. The axes of rotation support rotation of two other solar panels extended from the horizontal solar panel, where, in a transport or travel mode 2350, the other solar panels are rotated upward, optionally at concave or convex angles relative to the horizontally positioned solar panel. Travel-locking bars 2352 may be configured to be coupled to the raised solar panels at an upper end of the raised solar panels such that structural stiffness is provided between the raised solar panels to provide for travel on the mobile transport. Hydraulic stabilizers 2356, optionally with adjustable pads, may be employed to provide support for a dual axis solar tracker deployed in a tracking mode 2355. Further example embodiments of the diagram 2300 may include hydraulic rotating track pistons 2357, or other type of piston as is known in the art or hereinafter developed, for use during tracking mode.
Example dimensions of the diagram 2300 may include 8'6" of mobile transport with an 8'6" of horizontally positioned solar panel plus rotation assembly for the rotating portions of the solar paneling. The height of the overall transport system, including the solar panels in a travel mode, may be as high as 13 feet, where the height of the raised solar panels may be 6 feet of those 13 feet. It should be understood that the dimensions just provided are example dimensions only, but these dimensions are provided to support transport beneath most bridges found in the United States, at least on major interstate highways.
FIG. 18 is a diagram 2400 that illustrates a rear view of the solar panels 2450 in an unfolded position, or a folded position, depending on length of the piston assembly. In FIG. 18, there are two pistons 2472 within the piston assembly that are connected to a turntable 2461 that is driven by a drive motor and gear 2405. The pistons 2472 may be bolted with the solar collector 2404 via a flat support plat 2473 or other bolt, bracket, or linkage system. The turntable 2461 can be bolted to a flat top truck 2462 or trailer and rotate, optionally using a slewing gear drive and bearing system 2421, which can turn 360° in rotation in some embodiments. The pistons may be telescoping pistons having multiple segments thereof with a locking pin 2451 that is configured to maintain an open (or folded and retracted) position of the solar panels 2450. An inverter and control system 2417 may be provided on the turntable 2461 or on the trailer, such as the truck deck 2465 or the truck frame 2466. In the case of having the inverter and control system 2417 on the trailer, the turntable 2461 may provide slip rings (not shown) to allow for electricity to be passed from the stationary surface to the rotating surface (and vice- versa) without electrical disruption and with full 360° rotation or beyond.
Alternatively, a non-slip ring embodiment may be employed through other forms of communications links, including wire harnesses, which can transport electricity from a rotating turntable 2461 to a stationary mount. Further, battery storage (not shown) may be provided on the stationary platform, such as the truck's deck 2465 or truck frame 2466, and have cable harnesses or other means of electrical transport (not shown), to provide transport of electrons converted from photons by the solar panels to the energy storage devices, such as batteries.
It should be understood that a trailer or other support structure used for the mobile transport of the entire solar panel collection system is to have sufficient structural integrity for stationary and moving transport of the solar panel array assembly. Thus, large I-beams may further be employed if a normal chassis of a truck or trailer is insufficient to carry the weight of the solar panel assembly.
Further, any form of vibration or shock reduction can be employed, such as air bearings or other cushioning devices, to allow mobile transport on uneven or highly bumpy surfaces, such as roads that are affected by freezing and thawing effects in northern climates.
FIG. 19 is a diagram 2500 of a side view of a dual axis solar tracking system in a travel mode. The twin piston solar hydraulic lift system 2572 may be collapsed downward on itself in a partially or fully retracted position, and a travel lockdown system 2574 may be employed with a removable support system 2575. Heavy-duty pins 2576 may be included to provide for lockdown travel, including having roller/travel protection with rubber insulators 2577 or the like. A panel roller 2579 may be provided such that additional structural integrity is provided for the solar panels in a retracted position. Further, continuing to refer to the example embodiments of FIG. 19, the solar panel assembly may itself be a bolt-on solar collector support system 2573 such that any size or configuration of solar panels can be removably coupled to the pistoning system(s). Examples of such bolt-on solar collector support systems are simple metal straps with bolts at an open end of a U or circular shape such that flanges extending in parallel with each other can be interconnected with sufficient force to couple the bolt on support system properly to the piston and maintain such support during transport and operational deployment, including during periods of motion where the piston travels from non-extended to extended positions.,
FIG. 20 is a diagram 2600 of an example embodiment of a bottom view of the transport system, such as a truck, trailer, railcar, or other transport system, that illustrates outriggers 2643 that are coupled thereto to provide lateral and/or weight bearing support. The outriggers 2643 may be coupled to or operated with a power feed plug 2635, or in cases requiring manual operation, a hand powered control plug 2634 may be available. The outriggers 2643 may be hydraulically stabilized via stabilizers 2623 and/or stabilized via a frame pivot point 2678. The bottom view of FIG. 20 illustrates hydraulic controls 2633 that can be used to actuate the piston(s). In some embodiments of the present invention, the hydraulic controls 2633 can be coupled to or be operable with a hydraulic tank 2630 via hydraulic lines 2632. The hydraulic tank 2630 may be coupled with a hydraulic blow-off valve 2631 for the release of gasses or pressure build up. Further, electrical control lines 2636 may also be available to an operator of the solar panel assembly to operate angle of the solar panels or otherwise activate a control system to control angles of the solar panels automatically during operation or even to cause raising and lowering of the solar panels for operational or transport mode configurations.
The transport system may optionally include a tri-axel design on an air ride system 2688 or other tires, such as tires 2683, and further optionally include other forms of transport shock and vibration minimization systems for protection of the solar panel assembly.
FIG. 21 is a diagram 2700 of a top view of multiple solar panel assemblies
2750 configured on trailers 2711 or trucks 2710 that are in operating states. Each of the trucks 2710 is illustrated as having outriggers 2743 to provide vertical or lateral support for the trucks since, in an operational state, the solar panel assemblies 2750 are exposed to wind and other environmental factors that can produce excessive force on the assembly to cause the trucks or trailers to tip over. Although not shown, the energy converted and produced at each of the solar panel assemblies can be collected locally at each truck or, optionally, collected remotely at a central energy storage unit, such as one on a separate truck or at a central office. Further, multiple energy storage facilities can be provided and then collected energy can be delivered to a central facility. Still further, a coupling, such as a cable assembly, can be provided to provide direct or indirect transport of the energy to a power grid or provide energy directly to end users.
Alternative example embodiments of the present invention may be implemented on additional forms of mobile transport devices such as trains and boats, or, alternatively, on non-mobile locations that require the ease of use and storage of such a solar power system based on the location or configuration of the location, for example, on an oil rig at sea.
Further alternative examples of the present invention may be configured to raise a folded assembly of solar panels and configure the solar panels in such a way as to provide the solar collector arrays facing outward toward the sun but
maintaining the solar panels in a retracted state while continuing to collect energy while in a folded and traveling state.
FIG. 22 is a flow chart 2800 of an embodiment of the present invention that illustrates a method of transporting a dual axis solar tracker. After beginning, the method of flow chart 2800 maintains a mobile transport system configured to carry a solar power system (2881) and configures the solar power system to be transported by the mobile transport system in a retracted state and convert solar power in an operational state (2882).
Further example embodiments of the present invention may include a non- transitory computer readable medium containing instruction that may be executed by a processor, and, when executed, causes the processor to perform different functions, for example, configure a dual axis solar tracker for transport. It should be understood that elements of the block and flow diagrams described herein may be implemented in software, hardware, firmware, or other similar implementation determined in the future, In addition, the elements of the block and flow diagrams described herein may be combined or divided in any manner in software, hardware, or firmware. If implemented in software, the software may be written in any language that may support the example embodiments disclosed herein. The software may be stored in any form of computer readable medium, such as random access memory (RAM), read only memory (ROM), compact disk read only memory (CD-ROM), and so forth. In operation, a general purpose or application specific processor loads and executes software in a manner well understood in the art. It should be understood further that the block and flow diagrams may include more or fewer elements, be arranged or oriented differently, or be represented differently. It should be understood that implementation may dictate the block, flow, and/or network diagrams and the number of block and flow diagrams illustrating the execution of embodiments of the invention.
While this invention has been described according to each figure, the figures or features can be used or employed in any combination currently known or hereafter developed. While this invention has been particularly shown and described with references to example embodiments thereof, it will be understood by those skilled in the art that various changes in form and details may be made therein without departing from the scope of the invention encompassed by the appended claims.