Patent ID: 6058930
Filing Date: 2000-05-09
Classification: F16C,F24S,Y02E

Abstract:
A solar energy collector and tracker arrangement which comprises a north-south oriented torsion tube defining a north-south axis; an array of flat rectangular solar panels attached along opposite sides of said torsion tube; at least one pier having a footing supported in a foundation and a pivot member affixed thereto above said footing and in which said torsion tube is journaled to permit the array of solar panels to be rocked on said north-south axis to follow motion of the sun relative to the earth; a torque-arm member supported on said torsion tube and having an eye portion displaced from said north-south axis; and a linear actuator having a body portion mounted on a footing supported in the foundation at a distance spaced from said pier and a rod that extends from said body portion and has a distal end coupled to the eye portion of the torque-arm member.