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Title:
SUN-TRACKING SOLAR PANEL ARRAY MOVABLE BETWEEN AN OPERATING POSITION AND A STORAGE POSITION FOR A SOLAR PANEL SYSTEM
Document Type and Number:
WIPO Patent Application WO/2019/106396
Kind Code:
A1
Abstract:
A solar panel array movable between a basically vertical operating position and a basically a horizontal or folded storage position for a solar panel system arranged in limited spaces such as balconies, terraces. The array is guided and held in outer guide channels (4). For sun tracking, on the one hand, the panels of the array built as separate modules (1) can be rotated horizontally as columns of the array and the individual modules (1) of the array can be rotated vertically, and on the other hand, the whole array can be disengaged from the guide channels (4) and rotated horizontally as a whole out of its default plane. Each solar panel is fixed in an inner frame (14) embedded in a surrounding outer frame (11) in a horizontally rotatable manner, and the external frames (11) of the modules (1) held by hinged support rods (9) of a solar module column (2) of the array are rotatably mounted around a same vertical axis. The modules (1) arranged in a common vertical plane in the default operating position of the array have interconnecting means enabling temporary disconnection of the adjacent modules (1) for enabling rotation of the modules in horizontal direction. A sun tracking control unit comprises a sub-unit of vertical sun tracking and a sub-unit of horizontal sun tracking, at least one solar module column (2) of the array is connected to an actuator of the sub-unit of horizontal sun tracking, and each inner frame (14) of the modules (1) is connected to an actuator of the sub-unit of vertical sun tracking for vertically tilting the inner frame (14) and the solar panel mounted therein.

Inventors:
NÁDASI-SZABÓ TAMÁS (HU)
Application Number:
PCT/HU2018/050042
Publication Date:
June 06, 2019
Filing Date:
September 28, 2018
Export Citation:
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Assignee:
NADASI SZABO TAMAS (HU)
International Classes:
F24S20/60; F24S20/50; F24S30/45; H02S20/32; H02S30/20
Domestic Patent References:
WO2012087019A22012-06-28
WO2015155554A12015-10-15
Foreign References:
DE202010007471U12010-10-07
US20100175741A12010-07-15
KR20140078019A2014-06-25
KR20100072941A2010-07-01
US20040074490A12004-04-22
HUP1600139A22017-08-28
US20100175741A12010-07-15
US20130098425A12013-04-25
US20160177622A12016-06-23
Attorney, Agent or Firm:
ANTALFFY-ZSÍROS, András (HU)
Download PDF:
Claims:
Claims

1. A sun-tracking solar panel array for a solar panel system, movable between an operating position and a storage position, comprising solar panels, where the solar panels are arranged matrix-like in rows and columns, and the solar panels are in electric connection with each other; furthermore, comprising a support structure, where the solar panels are arranged on the support structure, the support structure comprising interconnected articulated rods, the support structure is in a mechanical actuating connection with an actuator connected to a sun-tracking control unit of a solar system; furthermore, comprising at least one connector constituting an electric outlet of the solar pan els connected electrically to each other characterized in that every single solar panel is fixed in an inner frame (14), said inner frame (14) is horizontally tiltably embedded in an outer frame (11) surrounding it, the solar panel, the inner frame (14) and the outer frame (11) constitute a solar module (1), each solar module (1) comprises at least one solar panel, the solar modules (1) arranged one below the other in operating position of the solar module array form a solar module column (2), the outer frames (11) of the solar modules (1) of a single solar module column (2) are rotatably mounted around a common vertical axis, each outer frame (11) is connected to at least one rod (9) exceeding the vertical size of an outer frame (11) of the support structure on its side that is identical with the back side of the solar panel, the ends of the rods (9) are provided with hingedly movable connector parts (10), the rods (9) of a solar panel column (2) that are vertically adjacent in operating position are interconnected through their respective connector parts (10), the adjacent solar modules (1) of the individual adjacent solar module columns (2) are inter connected through connector means providing for interconnected position of the adjacent solar modules (1) positioned in a plane of the solar module array in its initial operating posi- tion, and for enabling turning them out perpendicularly to said plane during operation of the solar module array; the sun-tracker control unit comprises a sub-unit (17) providing for vertical sun tracking and a sub-unit (13) providing for horizontal sun tracking, where a solar module (1) adjacent to the sub-unit (13) providing for the horizontal sun tracking of at least one solar module column (2) is in operating connection with a driving unit (20) of the subunit (13) providing for horizontal sun tracking, the inner frame (14) of each solar module (1) is connected to a driving unit of the sub-unit (17) of the solar tracker control unit, said driving unit provides for tilting the inner frame (14) and the enclosed solar panel cell from its initial vertical plane, guiding means (4) providing for the movement of the solar module array between a storage position and an operating position are associated with each of the solar modules (1) in the two outermost solar module columns (2) of the solar module array, the uppermost solar modules (1) of the solar module columns (2) are connected to a driving unit for moving the solar module array between said storage position and operating position. 2. The sun-tracking solar panel array according to claim 1, characterized in that the connector means connecting two adjacent solar modules (1) with each other consists of a rod (5) project ing from one side of the outer frame (11) of one of the solar modules (1), comprising a ball head (6) formed at its end, and a concave seat (7) for receiving said ball head (6), formed on an adjacent side of the outer frame (11) of the adjacent solar module (1). 3. The sun-tracking solar panel array according to claim 1, characterized in that the connector means connecting two adjacent solar modules (1) with each other consists of a rod (5) project ing from one side of the outer frame (11) of one of the solar modules (1), comprising a perma nent magnet fixed to its end, and a cooperating ferromagnetic engaging surface formed on the adjacent side of the outer frame (11) of the adjacent solar module (1). 4. The sun-tracking solar panel array according to any of claims 1 to 3, characterized in that the sub-unit (13) of the solar tracking control unit providing for horizontal solar tracking is ar ranged under the solar module array; a rotating pin (21) of other than circular cross-section, extending vertically downwards along the longitudinal rotational axis of the outer frame (11) is formed at the bottom of the outer frame (11) of the solar module (1) that is lowermost in the operating position of at least one solar module column (2), and a sleeve (18) of a form that is complementary to that of the pin (21) is formed in the actuator (20) of the sub-unit (13); and the pin (21) of the actuator (20) of the sub-unit (13) providing for horizontal sun tracking and the sleeve (18) of the outer frame (11) are in a releasable connection providing for the angular displacement around the vertical rotational axis of at least one solar module column (2) in the fully lowered, operating, position of the solar panel array.

5. The sun-tracking solar panel array according to any of claims 1 to 3, characterized in that the sub-unit (13) of the solar tracking control unit providing for horizontal sun tracking is ar ranged under the solar module array; the actuator (20) of the sub-unit (13) comprises a pin (21) of other than circular cross section, standing vertically upwards, and a sleeve (18) of a form that is complementary to that of the pin (21) is formed at the bottom of the outer frame (11) of the lowermost solar module (1) of at least one solar module column (2) in operating position, in the longitudinal rotational axis of the outer frame (11); and the pin (21) of the ac tuator of the sub-unit (13) providing for horizontal sun tracking and the sleeve (18) of the outer frame (11) are in a releasable connection providing for the angular displacement around the vertical rotational axis of at least one solar module column (2) in the fully lowered, operat ing position of the solar panel array.

6. The sun-tracking solar panel array according to claim 4 or 5, characterized in that electrical connectors (22) are arranged at the pins (21) and sleeves (18) for transmitting electricity gen erated by the solar module columns (2) in the fully lowered, operating, position of the solar panel array to electrical wires arranged in the sub-unit (13).

7. The sun-tracking solar panel array according to any of claims 1 to 6, characterized in that the guiding means enabling the movement of the solar module array between a storage posi tion and an operating position comprises guide channels (4) arranged at the two lateral edges of the solar module array.

8. The sun-tracking solar panel array according to claim 7, characterized in that dragging lev ers (8) extending from the guide channels (4) are releasably connected to the adjacent side of the outer frames (11) of the two horizontal lateral outermost solar panel modules (1) of the solar module array.

9. The sun-tracking solar panel array according to claim 8, characterized in that each dragging lever (8) is coupled at one end to a guide roller (12) that is movably guided in the guide chan nel (4), and its other end releasably extends into a seat (7) formed at the adjacent side of the outer frame (11) of the horizontally outermost solar module (1).

10. The sun-tracking solar panel array according to claim 7, characterized in that the guiding means enabling the movement of the solar module array between a storage position and an operating position comprises permanent magnets movably guided in the guide channels (4), and the dragging lever (8) comprises a ferromagnetic element being in magnetic contact with said permanent magnet movably guided in the guide channel (4).

11. The sun-tracking solar panel array according to any of claims 1 to 10, characterized in that the sub-unit (17) providing for tilting the inner frames (14) and the enclosed solar panels from their initial vertical plane into a sun-tracking operational position comprises a gravity ballast (25) in connection with a steel wire (27) forming a rigging with at least one of the solar panel modules (1).

12. The sun-tracking solar panel array according to any of claims 1 to 11, characterized in that in the two outermost solar panel module columns (2) of the solar module array, on the exter nal sides of the outer frames (11) of the solar panel modules (1) two seats (7) are formed in the bottom part and upper part of the outer frames for receiving other ends of respective dragging levers (8) extending from the guiding means; the guiding means providing for a near vertical or vertical storage position of individual rows of the solar module array is constituted by two guide channels (4a, 4b) each at the two lateral edges of the solar module array, where along a vertically extending section of the guiding means the guide channels (4a, 4b) are ar ranged adjacently, behind each other, and along a horizontally extending section of the guiding means the guide channel (4b) guiding the dragging levers (8) assigned to seats (7) in the bot tom part of the outer frames (11) is running separated from the guide channel (4a) guiding the dragging levers (8) assigned to seats (7) in the upper part of the outer frames (11), lowered from the other upper guide channel (4a) at a distance corresponding to the distance between said dragging levers (8) received by said lower and upper seats (7). 13. The sun-tracking solar panel array according to any of claims 1 to 12, characterized in that the sub-unit (13) of the solar tracking control unit providing for horizontal sun tracking is con- nected to operating means (M) in a manner enabling angular motion of the operating means (M), said operating means (M) providing for moving the solar module array between a storage position and an operating position.

14. The sun-tracking solar panel array according to any of claims 1 to 13, characterized in that the wires (31) electrically connecting the solar panels arranged in the individual solar modules

(1) in the solar module columns (2) are led through flexible hollow shafts connecting the inner frames (14) and the outer frames (13) and in the hollow interior of the outer frames (13).

15. The sun-tracking solar panel array according to any of claims 1 to 13, characterized in that the wire (31) sections electrically connecting the solar panels arranged in the individual solar module columns (2) are interconnected through electrical contacts formed in the connector parts (10) of the rods (9) that are vertically adjacent and realised as interconnected hollow shafts in operating position of a solar module column (2).

16. The sun-tracking solar panel array according to any of claims 1 to 15, characterized in that the solar panels consist of solar roof-tiles.

Description:
SUN-TRACKING SOLAR PANEL ARRAY MOVABLE BETWEEN AN OPERATING POSITION AND A

STORAGE POSITION FOR A SOLAR PANEL SYSTEM

The invention relates to a sun-tracking solar panel array for a solar panel system, movable between an operating position and a storage position, comprising solar panels, where the solar panels are arranged matrix-like in rows and columns, and the solar panels are in electric con nection with each other; furthermore, comprising a support structure, where the solar panels are arranged on the support structure, the support structure comprising interconnected articu lated rods, the support structure is in a mechanical actuating connection with an actuator con nected to a sun-tracking control unit of a solar system; furthermore, comprising at least one connector constituting an electric outlet of the solar panels connected electrically to each other. The proposed solar panel array can be installed and used for the efficient utilisation of solar energy in particular on limited areas of a smaller surface area such as terraces or balco nies.

Solar systems utilising solar energy are being installed in increasing numbers and in many ver sions to utilise renewable energy. One of their basic feature is that solar panels must be in stalled so as to enable them to utilise solar radiation falling on them to the greatest possible extent, that is, essentially, so as to satisfy the condition that solar panels should meet the sun's rays at a perpendicular or near-perpendicular angle for as long as possible. Therefore, solar panels or modules installed on rooftops or on the ground are most often arranged in a tiltable manner.

Within that, there are known on the one hand fixedly installed solar panel systems, where individual solar panels are arranged in a predefined position and at a predefined angle, in con sideration of the course of the sun, and on the other hand so-called sun-tracking solar panel systems, where the individual solar panels or panel groups are movable - mostly to a limited extent - in one or two directions, to be able to ensure to the greatest extent possible the per pendicular or near-perpendicular angle of incidence of sunrays. In the latter systems, this is ensured by making the individual solar panels rotatable or tiltable around their axis, namely by moving the individual solar panels through a common rigging either according to a predefined program, or in function of solar radiation as perceived and evaluated. Such a solar panel sys tem can only be implemented on larger areas; consequently, if only a smaller area is available, this manner of solar energy utilisation is not feasible or, based on experience so far, it can only produce a limited and often insufficient output due to the small number of solar panels.

HU 1600139 A2 discloses a structure providing for the utilisation of solar energy providing for the movement of several solar panels that can be interconnected matrix-like, where solar pan els can be moved in two dimensions by setting the heeling angle of a solar panel by vertically shifting the upper connection point of the panel by spindle lifter, and by rotating the panel by a thrust engine. Although this solution is suitable for the sun-tracking movement of individual solar panels, its structural design makes it unsuitable for installing and preferably collectively moving a high number of solar panels on smaller areas.

US 2010/0175741 A1 discloses a dual-axis sun tracker solar panel array consisting of solar pan els movable in two dimensions, where solar panels arranged in a single rigid support frame can be moved around two axes. In this solution, too, the movement of the individual solar panels is ensured by a mechanical structure to which the individual solar panels are hingedly connected through proper actuating arms. This solution is obviously one that occupies a larger area and lies substantially parallel with the ground, and this may act as mechanical obstacle due to its rigid framework design whether arranged horizontally, at an angle or vertically.

US 2013/0098425 A1 discloses a dual-axis solar-tracker solar panel apparatus, where the solar panel is moved in two dimensions through its support structure by two operating means, one meant for tilting the solar panel mounted tiltably along its central axis around its axis, and the other for the combined lateral rotation of the solar panel and the operating means mentioned above. This solution is suitable for the two-dimensional movement of a single solar panel, but its structural features prevent its being upgraded without substantial modifications so as to combine several solar panels e.g. for the sake of space-saving, and that makes it impossible to use a higher number of solar panels on a smaller area.

US 2016/0177622 A1 discloses a foldable shading configuration, wherein the individual ele ments are connected to each other and to a guiding rail structure through their edges. Out of use, the shading elements can be concertina-folded, but if the elements concerned are re placed by solar panels, the optimal sunlight utilising position of the individual panels cannot be ensured in open operating position of the shading structure, and it is not suitable at all for sun tracking.

In all the known solar panels systems, electricity being generated is transmitted to the place of use through suitable electrical connectors.

In the light of the known solutions, it is a real problem that no efficient solar panel system ex ists that could ensure the optimal energy utilisation of every solar panel in operating position and could also be moved and placed in not-in-use position so as to occupy a minimum only of the available area or space, and be operable in a manner that is not more complex than that of a normal sun-screening device.

The present invention is based on the realisation that by arranging the solar panels into a novel-type array and by the novel-type operation of the certain elements and/or the entire array, it is possible to ensure in a simple, manual or automated, manner the movement of the solar panels in the array either in a completely identical way or differentiated by predefined criteria, and to ensure thereby optimal sun tracking and, at the same time, to move or convert them outside use into a space-saving and visually unobtrusive position.

The task being set has been solved by a sun-tracking solar panel array for a solar panel system, movable between an operating position and a storage position, comprising solar panels, where the solar panels are arranged matrix-like in rows and columns, and the solar panels are in elec tric connection with each other; furthermore, comprising a support structure, where the solar panels are arranged on the support structure, the support structure comprising interconnected articulated rods, the support structure is in a mechanical actuating connection with an actua tor connected to a sun-tracking control unit of a solar system; furthermore, comprising at least one connector constituting an electric outlet of the solar panels connected electrically to each other. According to the invention, every single solar panel is fixed in an inner frame that is horizontally tiltably embedded in an outer frame surrounding it. The solar panel, the inner frame and the outer frame constitute a solar module, each solar module comprises at least one solar panel and the solar modules arranged one below the other in operating position of the solar module array form a solar module column. The outer frames of the solar modules of a single solar module column are rotatably mounted around a common vertical axis; each outer frame is connected to at least one rod exceeding the vertical size of an outer frame of the support structure on its side that is identical with the back side of the solar panel, and the ends of the rods are provided with hingedly movable connector parts. Rods of a solar panel column that are vertically adjacent in operating position are interconnected through their re spective connector parts. The adjacent solar modules of the individual adjacent solar module columns are interconnected through connector means providing for interconnected position of the adjacent solar modules lying in a plane of the solar module array in its initial operating position, and for enabling turning them out perpendicularly to said plane during operation of the solar module array. The sun-tracker control unit comprises a sub-unit providing for vertical sun tracking and a sub-unit providing for horizontal sun tracking, where a module adjacent to the sub-unit providing for horizontal sun tracking of at least one solar module column is in actuating connection with a driving unit of the subunit providing for horizontal sun tracking, and the inner frame of each solar module is connected to a driving unit of the sub-unit provid ing for vertical sun tracking of the solar tracker control unit, said driving unit provides for tilting the inner frame and the enclosed solar panel cell from its initial vertical plane. Guiding means providing for the movement of the solar module array between a storage position and an op erating position are associated with each of the solar modules in the two outermost solar module columns of the solar module array, and the uppermost solar modules of the solar module columns are connected to a driving unit moving the solar module array between the storage position and operating position.

Thanks to this configuration, the solar module array can be moved in three dimensions to track the course of the sun; it can be sunk into an operating position that is substantially in the verti cal plane, where the planes of the vertical solar panel columns are identical, and lifted into a substantially horizontal storage position. Another essential feature is that, given the manner of connection of the modules making up the array and of the guiding means, the whole array can be turned out of the plane defined by the two extreme guiding means.

Within the array, the ordering principle of the solar panels is embodied by the columns, that is, although moving the array into operating position and storage position, respectively, is exe cuted in a manner similar to that of garage doors, the ordering principle of the invention dif fers from the known lamellar and sectioned structure of garage doors, because in garage doors the individual lamellas are arranged according to a horizontal ordering principle, whereas in the array according to the invention, a different ordering principle is provided by the vertical columns, that is, considering the operating position as a basis, the vertical solar panels are connected in series, and the solar panels in the vertical column can also be moved left and right if necessary.

However, the smallest substantial elements of the array are the individual solar panels ar ranged matrix-like, so that, in addition to the vertical ordering principle described above, they are interconnected with each other also horizontally, to ensure lowering and lifting up in a system similar to a garage door moving in guiding rails.

In a preferred embodiment of the solar panel array, the connector means connecting two ad jacent solar modules with each other consists of a rod projecting from one side of the outer frame of one of the solar modules, comprising a ball head formed at its end, and a concave seat for receiving said ball head, formed on the adjacent side of the outer frame of the adja cent solar module.

In another preferred embodiment of the solar panel array according to the invention, the con nector means connecting two adjacent solar modules with each other consists of a rod project ing from one side of the outer frame of one of the solar modules, comprising a permanent magnet fixed to its end, and a cooperating ferromagnetic engaging surface formed on the ad jacent side of the outer frame of the adjacent solar module.

In yet another preferred embodiment of the solar panel array according to the invention, the sub-unit of the solar tracking control unit providing for horizontal solar tracking is arranged under the solar module array; a rotating pin of other than circular cross-section, extending vertically downwards along the longitudinal rotational axis of the outer frame is formed at the bottom of the outer frame of the solar module that is lowermost in the operating position of at least one solar module column, and a sleeve of a form that is complementary to that of the pin is formed in the actuator of the sub-unit; and the pin of the actuator of the sub-unit provid ing for horizontal sun tracking and the sleeve of the outer frame are in a releasable connection providing for the angular displacement around the vertical rotational axis of at least one solar module column in the fully lowered, operating, position of the solar panel array.

In a further preferred embodiment of the solar panel array according to the invention, the sub unit of the solar tracking control unit providing for horizontal sun tracking is arranged under the solar module array; the actuator of the sub-unit comprises a pin of other than circular cross section, standing vertically upwards, and a sleeve of a form that is complementary to that of the pin is formed at the bottom of the outer frame of the lowermost solar module of at least one solar module column in operating position, in the longitudinal rotational axis of the outer frame; and the pin of the actuator of the sub-unit providing for horizontal sun tracking and the sleeve of the outer frame are in a releasable connection providing for the angular dis placement around the vertical rotational axis of at least one solar module column in the fully lowered, operating position of the solar panel array.

In the latter configurations, a preferred embodiment of the solar panel array according to the invention has electrical connectors are arranged at the pins and sleeves for transmitting elec tricity generated by the solar module columns in the fully lowered, operating, position of the solar panel array to electrical wires arranged in the sub-unit. ln a preferred embodiment of the solar panel array according to the invention, the guiding means enabling the movement of the solar module array between a storage position and an operating position comprises guide channels arranged at the two lateral edges of the solar module array.

In such configuration, dragging levers extending from the guide channels are releasably con nected to the adjacent side of the outer frames of the two horizontal lateral outermost solar panel modules of the solar module array.

In the latter design, in a preferred embodiment of the solar panel array according to the inven tion, the dragging lever is coupled at one end to a guide roller that is movably guided in the guide channel, and its other end releasably extends into a seat formed at the adjacent side of the outer frame of the horizontally outermost solar module.

In a further preferred embodiment, the guiding means enabling the movement of the solar module array between a storage position and an operating position comprises permanent magnets movably guided in the guide channels, and the dragging lever comprises a ferromag netic element being in magnetic contact with said permanent magnet movably guided in the guide channel.

In a further preferred embodiment of the solar panel array according to the invention, the sub unit providing for tilting the inner frames and the enclosed solar panels from their initial verti cal plane into a sun-tracking operational position comprises a gravity ballast in connection with a steel wire forming a rigging with at least one of the solar panel modules.

In a further preferred embodiment of the solar panel array according to the invention, in the two outermost solar panel module columns of the solar module array, on the external sides of the outer frames of the solar panel modules two seats are formed in the bottom part and up per part of the outer frames, the two seats receiving other ends of respective dragging levers, the guiding means providing for a near-vertical or vertical storage position of individual rows of the solar module array is constituted by two guide channels each at the two lateral edges of the solar module array, where along a vertically extending section of the guiding means the guide channels are led adjacently, behind each other, and along a horizontally extending sec tion of the guiding means the guide channel guiding the dragging levers assigned to seats in the bottom part of the outer frames is running separated from the guide channel guiding the dragging levers assigned to seats in the upper part of the outer frames, lowered from the other upper guide channel at a distance corresponding to the distance between said dragging levers received by said lower and upper seats.

In a further preferred embodiment of the solar panel array according to the invention, the sub unit of the solar tracking control unit providing for horizontal sun tracking is connected to op erating means in a manner enabling angular motion of the operating means, said operating means providing for moving the solar module array between a storage position and an operat ing position.

A yet another preferred embodiment of the solar panel array according to the invention the wires electrically connecting the solar panels arranged in the individual solar module columns are led through flexible hollow shafts connecting the inner frames and the outer frames and in the hollow interior of the outer frames.

In a further preferred embodiment of the solar panel array according to the invention, the wire sections electrically connecting the solar panels arranged in the individual solar module col umns are interconnected through electrical contacts formed in the connector parts of the rods that are vertically adjacent and realised as interconnected hollow shaft in operating position of the one solar module column.

Another preferred embodiment of the solar panel array according to the invention is one where the solar panels consist of solar roof-tiles.

One of the main advantages of the solar panel array according to the invention, to be high lighted here, is that its design provides for installation on relatively small areas, places; for example, autonomous, economically and legally independent, solar-energy-utilising small sys tems can be created on balconies, terraces of residential buildings. Another advantage is that when not in use, i.e. in storage position the array can be stored hidden to the eye almost fully. Yet another advantage is that given the feasibility of 3D movement and setting, the array util ises solar energy in the best possible way despite their small size. A yet another advantageous property is that in case of its preferred embodiments, it is easy to assemble and disassemble, so it is considered movable property in legal sense and does not constitute an organic unit belonging to a relating real estate.

Features and advantages of the disclosure will be apparent from the detailed description which follows, taken in conjunction with the accompanying drawings, which together illus trate, by way of example, features of an exemplary embodiment of the proposed solar panel array, where

Figure 1 shows a schematic drawing of a preferred embodiment of the solar panel array according to the invention in operating, that is, lowered, vertical position,

Figure 2 shows a possible solution of the connection of the leftmost and rightmost mod ules of the solar panel array according to Figure 1 and of the guiding means of the array,

Figure 3 shows a sketch of the structure of one solar panel module of the solar panel array according to Figure 1 and the possible mechanical and electrical connection of a solar module column with a solar tracker sub-unit providing for horizontal sun tracking arranged at the bottom in the presented example,

Figure 4 shows an example of the movement of the solar panels in the solar panel modules providing for vertical solar tracking,

Figure 5 shows a solar panel array embodiment moved into a storage position,

Figure 6 shows a further possible solar panel array embodiment moved into a storage po- sition together with the corresponding guide rail embodiment.

Figure 1 shows an embodiment of the solar panel array according to the invention, presented only as a possible and preferred example, schematically. Solar panel modules 1 constituting the solar panel array are interconnected in the manner to be detailed later. Solar module col umns 2 compiled of solar panel modules 1 are connected, in a working, operating, position of the array, i.e. essentially in the vertical plane, at their upper part to a tail piece 3, which in the present example is as wide as the width of the array assembled of the solar module columns 2. Tail piece 3 is connected to operating means M. Operating means M, indicated symbolically in Figure 1, provides for moving the tail piece 3 and all the solar module columns 2 connected to it from an operating position to a storage position, also to be detailed later, and from storage position to operating position. Such operating means M exist in many versions, for example in the field of gate automation, to operate garage doors, so their structure and operation is known to those skilled in the art or can be learned as it is part of state-of-the-art technology.

In the presented embodiment, there is one guide channel 4 of the guiding means for guiding the array on each of the two sides of the array comprising the solar module columns 2. In de- fault case, the lower section of the guide channels 4 ensures that the array be placed in oper- ating position in a substantially vertical plane, whereas its upper section, presented in a later figure, traverses into a horizontal section with a radius curve depending on the size of solar panel modules 1 that defines the storage position of the array.

One essential property of the solar panel array according to the invention is that the individual solar panel modules 1 can be moved individually and also in columns to ensure sun tracking. In the presented example this is ensured by connector means so that other end of rods 5 that are part of a support structure of the array and are always fixed by their one end on a solar panel module 1 each and serve for interconnecting the individual solar modules 1, is designed as a ball head 6 and said ball head 6 fits into a seat 7 formed in or on adjacent solar module 1, and provides for a hinged, yet releasable connection. Seat 7 is designed so that in a direction that is parallel with the plane of solar panel module 1 - meaning a vertical plane in the initial operat ing position of the array - it receives the ball head 6, thus vertical movement of one solar panel module 1 triggers identical movement also of the adjacent solar panel module 1 con nected to it, so solar panel modules 1 can be moved as a single unit, but the ball head 6 can freely emerge from seat 7 in directions perpendicular to the plane of solar panel module 1, so the adjacent solar panel modules 1 can be freely turned out of their plane relative to each other without any additional measures.

Due to the mentioned design of the proposed rod 5 - ball head 6 - seat 7 connector means, the adjacent solar panel modules 1 of the individual solar module columns 2, lying in a single common plane in the initial operating position of solar module array, are interconnected, so they can be moved as a single unit, but it is also possible to turn the individual solar module columns 2 through the emerging ball heads 6 from seats 7 initially receiving them.

The presented ball head 6 - seat 7 connection is a possible example only; the connection can be established equally successfully e.g. by a permanent magnet replacing the ball head 6 and a connector surface of ferromagnetic material replacing the seat 7 on the adjacent frame 11, or by another permanent magnet fixed onto it, in accordance with the desired strength of the connection.

In order to be able to rotate the entire solar panel array, irrespective of the fixedly installed guide channels 4, around a vertical axis, that is, in a horizontal sun tracking direction, it is nec essary to be able to make the outermost solar module columns 2 of the array, as the case may be, independent of guide channels 4, more precisely from dragging levels 8 providing for con nection with guide channels 4. As can be seen in the figures, the individual solar panel modules 1 are held by support rods 9 that are hingedly connected to the tail piece 3 and hingedly connected also to one another. In the presented example, each solar panel module 1 is held by a support rod 9 fixed to its rear side at the centre, but the number of support rods 9 is to be determined and may be multi plied in function of the size and weight of the solar panel modules 1 ever. For enabling folding of vertically adjacent solar panel modules 1 the length of one support rod 9 exceeds the verti cal size of a solar panel module 1; its ends are provided with hingedly movable connector parts 10; and the vertically adjacent support rods 9 are interconnected hingedly movably with each other through said connector parts 10, providing for winding up and down or folding accor- dion-like, to be outlined below.

Figure 2 shows the solar panel module 1 - guide channel 4 connection mentioned in the pres entation of Figure 1, figuring logically only the outermost solar panel modules 1 of the solar module array, on a larger scale. The left side of the figure shows the upper leftmost solar panel module 1 of the array, with a double frame design to be described later. In the horizontal cen tre line of a solar panel module 1, at one - in the present case the right - side of the solar panel module 1, there is a rod 5 fixed to an outer frame 11 of the solar panel module 1; on the other, left, side of the outer frame 11, also in the horizontal centre line of the solar panel module 1, the already mentioned seat 7 is observable. One end of a dragging lever 8, designed as a ball head 6, extends into this seat 7, whereas its other end is connected to a roller 12 guided so that it cannot slip off in guide channel 4. In the presented example, the material of roller 12 is rubber-coated metal, to produce the least possible noise during the movement of the solar panel array, but that does not exclude any other kind of roller design or movement, e.g. by applying magnets moved by belts.

The right side of the figure is almost the mirror image of the left side, that is, a seat 7 is formed in the right side of outer frame 11 of the rightmost solar panel module 1, with a ball head 6 of a dragging lever 8 connected to a roller 12 movably and fittingly mounted in the rightmost guide channel 4 of the guiding means, and the arrangement on the right side differs from that on the left side only in that seat 7 is formed also on the left side of the outer frame 11, into which a ball head 6 of a rod 5 of an adjacent solar panel module 1 may fit.

Figure 3 shows in a larger scale the exemplary embodiment of the solar panel module 1 men tioned in connection with Figures 1 and 2, and its connection with a sub-unit 13 providing for rotating a solar module column 2 around a vertical axis, for ensuring horizontal sun tracking. The solar panels used in the solar panel array are commercially available panels; consequently, the size of a solar panel module 1 is also determined basically by the size and shape of one solar panel. Solar panels may even be commercially available solar roof tiles. A single solar panel, not shown in the figures for the sake of simplicity, is mounted on an inner frame 14 of the solar panel module 1; that inner frame 14 is surrounded by an already mentioned outer frame 11, in the presented case in the following way: To make the solar panel suitable also for vertical sun tracking, instead of being connected to the outer frame 11 rigidly, the inner frame 14 is mounted tiltably around pins 16 arranged between the inner frame 14 and the outer frame 11 along a horizontal rotational axis 15 lying preferably in the range of the bottom edge of the inner frame 14. Pins 16 may be fixed either on the inner frame 14 or on the outer frame 11, their role is merely to enable the tilting of the inner frame 14 from an operating plane de fined by the outer frame 11. In the presented embodiment, the individual inner frames 14 together with the solar panels mounted on them are secured by wired actuator sub-unit 17 that is part of the structure providing for their tilting, shown in more detail in Figure 4.

A further arrangement suitable for creating releasable mechanical and electrical connection is designed on the outer frame 11 of the solar modules 1 of the lowermost solar module row of the solar module array, that is, the lowermost members of the individual solar module col umns 2, connected to a driving unit 19 of a sub-unit 13 of a sun-tracking control unit providing for horizontal sun-tracking, also beyond the scope of the object of the present invention, ca pable of rotating the outer frame 11 and the solar panel in it around a vertical axis.

Material and dimensioning of the outer frame 11 and inner frame 14 always depends on the solar panel being applied. In smaller, lighter panels it may be appropriate to use frames 11, 14 made of metal plate, plastic or even metal foam - although that would imply modifying the electrical wire layout applied in the present example -, whereas in larger and heavier panels frames 11, 14 are preferably made of hollow section, inside which electrical wires necessary for the array can also be led.

In the presented example, the sub-unit 13 is approximately as wide as the solar module array, in order to be suitable for rotating every solar module column 2 of the array. Sub-unit 13 itself is in the present case put on the ground, but it is not fixed, to prevent that it should hinder the previously mentioned rotation of the entire solar module array. Given the fact that the plane of the array can be moved to a small extent also in lateral direction, by any mechanical drive, for example, controlled by software, it can be ensured that it should follow the course of the sun by turning out to the most expedient extent possible from the initial operating plane of the array that is often identical with the plane of the building, to increase thereby its maximum output capacity and number of useful operating hours.

To do that, frames or rollers may be arranged at the bottom of a housing of sub-unit 13, not shown in the drawing, that may be independent support elements to enable the rotation of the housing of sub-unit 13, and in such case the entire solar module array can be turned with the help of said tail piece 3, but the rollers may also be driven elements in which case the piv oting sub-unit 13 turns the solar module array through actuators 20 and pins 21 connected to them.

Sub-unit 13 comprises electrically operated mechanical rotating means. In the present exam ple, rotating means comprises a stepping motor being in mechanical connection with the ro tatably mounted actuator 20 extending from the housing of sub-unit 13. This connection can be designed as a basically known pin-and-sleeve connection, by forming on the actuator 20 a pin or sleeve of other-than-circular cross-section, and forming a sleeve or pin of a shape that is complementary to that of the pin or sleeve, on the lower side of the outer frame 11 of the lowermost solar panel module 1, at the vertical centre line, in this example, vertical rotational axis of the frame 11. In the presented embodiment, pin 21 of other-than-circular cross-section is formed on the actuator 20, and on the lower side of the outer frame 11 of the lowermost solar panel module 1, at the vertical centre line of frame 11, a sleeve 18 of complementary design is formed. Of course, it is also possible to form the shaped pin comprising electrical contacts 22 on outer frame 11, and to form the complementary sleeve that fits onto it on ac tuator 20.

Electrical connectors 22 are formed on both the above-mentioned pin 21 and in sleeve 18, to provide for electrical connection between one or more electrical wires 23 in the sub-unit 13 transmitting electrical energy being generated and the electrical outlets led in the outer frames 11 of the solar panel modules 1. Connectors 22 can be implemented in any way provid ing for releasable temporary contact as in the case e.g. of the sliding doors of vehicles.

In contrary to the embodiment outlined above, it is also possible to use one single rotating means, e.g. a stepping motor in the sub-unit 13 and to transfer its angular position in a known way, through rigging, chain, belt or gears to the individual actuators 20. Whereas in the em bodiment outlined first, the individual solar module columns 2 can be turned to different ex tents by the several individual stepper motors, in the latter mentioned embodiment this op- tion obviously does not exist: a single stepping motor will turn every actuator 20 to the same extent through the established mechanical connections.

Figure 4 shows an example of the movement of the solar panels in the solar panel modules 1 providing for sun-tracking in vertical direction. The upper edge of the inner frame 14 of each and every solar panel module 1 is hingedly connected to an adjusting rod 24 running vertically behind the solar panel modules 1, and a ballast 25 is fixed to the lower end of the adjusting rod 24, that is in every case and always striving to move the solar panels enclosed in the inner frames 14 connected to it from the initial vertical plane by a backward tilt. Logically, in a solar module array, an adjusting rod 24 is assigned to each of the solar module columns 2. Since the inner frames 14 are tiltably mounted in the outer frame 11 at their lower edge or lower sec tion, the adjusting rod 24 striving to move downwards under the effect of the ballast 25 tilts the individual solar panels 1 by their inner frame 14 from their basic, vertical, plane, so the individual solar panels will be arranged similarly, at an angle, as in case of being mounted on a rooftop; this position is represented in the Figure by a dotted line. To prevent the excessive tilting of the individual solar panels, limiters 26 are mounted tiltably and slidably between the outer frame 11 and the inner frame 14. Keeping the individual solar panels in initial vertical position and permitting their tilting is provided for in the present solution by steel wires 27, counteracting gravitation force. Steel wires 27 may be replaced in case of lower mechanical loads by something else, e.g. a fishing line. The end of one steel wire 27 is connected to each of the solar panels of the uppermost solar panel module 1 of each solar module column 2, more precisely to the upper edge of the inner frame 14 of the solar panel, and each steel wire 27 is led through some kind of known, e.g. pulley, guiding means to a winch 28 formed on the tail piece 3, that is moved by a motor 29 optimised by software for tracking the course of the sun. In initial position, when the solar module array is already operational, this means ensures vertical positioning of the solar panels of solar panel modules 1, ensured e.g. by straining steel wires 27, maybe with the supplemental feature of forming one or several buffer nibs 30 on the upper edge or upper section of the inner frame 14 to prevent the tilting of inner frame 14 in the other, unwanted, direction from the plane of the outer frame 11. Where the goal is to realise vertical sun-tracking, steel wires 27 wound on winch 28 are wound down according to the desired position to be reached, and when loosened, steel wires 27 let the individual solar panels be tilted out by the adjusting rods 24 due to ballast 25, to ensure an optimal incidence angle of the solar panels at all times. For those skilled in the art, an embodiment where, in stead of tilting the upper edge of the individual solar panels backwards, the solar panels are rotated around their horizontal centre line, or tilted by their lower edge, is also feasible; this may be a question structural and aesthetic considerations.

Initial operational position of the solar module array according to the invention is the men tioned vertical plane; however, it is to be ensured that the array does not occupy place, limit the view etc. when out of use. Accordingly, some kind of storage position needs to be ensured, and possible examples for that are shown in Figures 5 and 6, respectively. Figure 5 shows an embodiment where the solar module array operating in vertical position is converted into an upper horizontal storage position, similarly to sectioned garage doors.

Moving the solar module array into operating position and storage position, respectively, can be solved in the already mentioned manner, when the tail piece 3 is moved by some kind of operating means, or it can be solved by moving directly the rollers 12 movably mounted in the guide channels 4. Instead of rollers 12, permanent magnets arranged by clearance fit in the guide channels 4 may also be used.

Movement is promoted by guide channels 4 of the guiding means in which rollers 12 move up and down, and the dragging levers 8 connected to the rollers 12 and also connected to the outermost solar panel modules 1 move also the solar panel modules 1 up and down, which forces the movement also of the other, inner, solar panel modules 1 connected to the outer most solar panel modules 1 by the rods 5. Since the solar panel modules 1 in the solar module columns 2 are interconnected also through the vertical support rods 9, after all, the active or passive movement of the rollers 12 triggers the movement of the entire solar module array.

In order to enable the individual solar panel modules 1 to switch over from vertical to horizon tal position similarly to sectioned lamellas, it is also necessary to provide the above-mentioned adjusting rods 24 with hinges as in support rods 9; executing that may be regarded a routine activity for those skilled in the art, and can be realised e.g. by some fitting similar e.g. to metal straps of watches.

The embodiment shown in Figure 5 can be realised where sufficient space is available for a horizontal storage of the entire solar module array. This is not always possible; however, if less space is available, the individual solar panel module rows of the solar module array may also be arranged accordion-like, vertically, if space exceeding the vertical dimension of a single solar module 1 plus a rod 5 is available, and the solar module array will take up less space and can be applied e.g. in large surface, but narrow balconies in the plane of the building. This can be realised, as can be observed in Figure 6 for example, by arranging two guide chan nels 4a, 4b along the two lateral edges of the solar module array as guiding means providing for the side-by-side vertical storage position of the individual rows of the solar module array, where guide channels 4a, 4b are arranged adjacently, one behind the other, in a vertical bot tom section of the guiding means, whereas in the upper section of the guiding means a guide channel 4b being in guiding connection with dragging levers 8 assigned to the lower part of the outer frames 11 is running lowered and away from a guide channel 4a being in guiding connec tion with dragging levers 8 assigned to the upper part of the outer frames 11, and on the ex ternal side of the outer frames 11 of the solar panel modules 1 of the solar module array two seats 7 receiving the end ball heads 6 of the dragging levers 8 extending from the guide chan nels 4a, 4b are formed in the upper part and the lower part of the outer frame 11. The in verti cal direction lower horizontal guide channel 4b section is at a distance from the upper guide channel 4a that corresponds to the distance between the upper and lower dragging levers 8 fixed on the external side of an outer frame 11.

The rollers 12 of the dragging levers 8 of every second adjacent solar panel module 1 are guided alternately in one and the other guide channel 4a, 4b, so when the solar module array is moved into storage position, two adjacent rollers 12 belonging to two adjacent solar panel modules 1 move about in the upper guide channel 4a of the storage position, and the subse quent two adjacent rollers 12 move about in the other guide channel 4b lying at the bottom. Obviously, in such embodiment, care should be taken also to prevent that support and actua tor elements belonging to the individual solar panel modules 1 and the electric wires hinder the accordion-like transformation, and that they should bear enhanced use without being damaged.

Electrical connection of the individual solar panel cells is ensured by wires 31 led in the inner frame 14, in the interior of the hollow pin 16 connecting the inner frame 14 and the outer frame 11, in the outer frame 11 made of hollow section, in the interior of the hollow support rods 9 and connected in the present example to the connectors 22 of the pins 21. According to another possible embodiment, the sections of wires 31 electrically connecting the solar panels arranged in the individual solar module columns 2 are interconnected by the connector parts 10 of the support rods 9 realised as vertically adjacent hollow shafts and interconnected in the operating position of the solar module column 2.

Another advantage of the solar module array according to the invention is that e.g. owners or users of separately owned condominium properties may satisfy their own energy demand by renewable energy by utilising solar energy in the best way, without having to use common property, e.g. rooftop, so no related legal, use and cost issues raise.

It is also advantageous that certain elements of the array - e.g. solar panels, rods 5, support rods 9, wires 31 - are easy to replace if necessary, thus, besides installation and use, mainte nance and repair can also be executed easily and at low cost.

List of reference signs:

1: solar module 17: sub-unit

2: solar module column 18: sleeve

3: tail piece 19: driving unit

4: guide channel 20: actuator

5: rod 21: pin

6: ball head 22: connector

7: concavation 23: wire

8: dragging lever 24: adjusting rod

9 : support rod 25: ballast

10: connector part 26: limiter

11: frame 27: steel wire

12: roller 28: winch

13: sub-unit 29: motor

14: frame 30: buffer nib

15: rotational axis 31: wire

16: pin M: operating means