Pole-mounted power generation systems, structures and processes

Solar power systems and structures are mountable to a power distribution structure, e.g. a power pole or tower, which supports alternating current (AC) power transmission lines. An exemplary power generation structure is fixedly attached to and extends from the power distribution structure, and comprises a mounting rack. A solar array, comprising at least one solar panel, is affixed to the mounting rack. A DC to AC inverter is connected between the DC outputs of the solar array and the AC power transmission lines. The length of the solar array is generally in alignment with the power distribution structure, and the width of the solar array is greater than half the circumference of the power distribution structure. The mounting rack and solar array may preferably be rotatable, such as based on any of location, time of day, or available light.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

All public utilities in the United States have been tasked by the Federal Government to generate 25 percent of their electricity from renewable sources by 2020. Some states have mandated even higher percentages of renewable energy. For example, in 2011, California passed a law to raise the amount of renewable energy that all California utilities must use to 33 percent by 2020. While some states, such as California, already produce renewable energy through large hydropower installations, the need to increase electricity production through solar power is increasing rapidly.

Some current distributed solar panel installations, such as currently offered through Petra Solar, Inc., of South Plainfield N.J., comprise stationary brackets that are mountable to utility distribution poles, which support traditional, silicon-based, non-flexible solar panels that are locally connected to the power grid. In a typical installation, a 32 inch wide by 62 inch long silicon-based rigid solar panel is fixedly mounted at a +/−30 degree angle onto the a utility distribution pole.

Silicon panels are typically expensive, require direct light, and tolerate only a slight offset to the sun to provide power. As well, such silicon panels don't react to reflected light sources well. Furthermore, rigid silicon-based panels are fragile, and are susceptible to damage, such as by but not limited to rocks, bullets, or birds. As well, particularly when fixedly mounted at an inclined angle to a utility distribution pole, silicon-based panels are not self-cleaning, and are difficult to manually clean by hand.

It would be advantageous to provide a pole mounted solar power structure, process and system that provides enhanced power harvest, monitoring, and control for a wide variety of installations. The development of such a system would provide a significant advance to the efficiency and cost effectiveness of distributed power cells structures, processes, and systems.

One current alternative to traditional, silicon-based, non-flexible solar panels that are fixedly mounted to power distribution poles is offered through NextStep Electric, Inc., of Longmont, Colo. Flexible thin-film panels, having an adhesive backing, are wrapped directly to a power pole, and are connected to the local power grid through a micro-inverter712. When the mounting surface of the pole surface is clean, uncluttered, and consistent, the adhesive mounting of flexible thin-film panels may provide a fast, simple, and inexpensive installation. As the flexible panels are mounted vertically to the ground, they can be considered to be at least partially self-cleaning, since less dirt accumulates on the vertical panel surfaces, and at least a portion of any accumulated dirt is cleaned through any of wind, rain, dew, or fog.

Thin-film panels are typically less fragile than silicon panels. In most cases, a thrown rock will bounce off the panel without harm. While a gunshot may penetrate the panel and cause a small loss of efficiency, it will not normally disable the panel as with silicon. Furthermore, thin-film technology is more tolerant at producing electricity from indirect and reflected light than are traditional, silicon-based solar panels.

While installations that comprise flexible thin-film panels that are attached directly to power poles may provide easier installation, improved cleaning, and tolerance to incident light direction to that of traditional, silicon-based, non-flexible solar panels, such installations are inherently limited to the available circumferential surface area of the utility pole.

It would be advantageous to provide a pole mounted solar power structure, process and system that provides a greater surface area than that of flexible thin-film panels that are attached directly to power poles, which also provides any of enhanced cleaning, robustness, monitoring, and control for a wide variety of installations. The development of such a system would provide a further significant advance.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

Solar power systems and structures are mountable to a power distribution structure, e.g. a power pole or tower, which supports alternating current (AC) power transmission lines. An exemplary power generation structure is fixedly attached to and extends from the power distribution structure, and comprises a mounting rack. A solar array comprising at least one solar panel is affixed to the mounting rack. A DC to AC inverter is connected between the DC outputs of the solar array and the AC power transmission lines. The length of the solar array is generally in alignment with the power distribution structure, and the width of the solar array is greater than half the circumference of the power distribution structure. The mounting rack and solar array may preferably be rotatable, such as based on any of location, time of day, or available light.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

Enhanced Coated Power Panels. The efficiency of solar panels10falls off rapidly as dirt and other impurities settles on the outer surface435of the panels10. The outer glass substrates434(FIG. 1) on the surface of solar panels10, e.g. conventional solar panels10, typically contain microscopic voids, fissures, and/or scratches436, making them rough, wherein dust, dirt, scale, particulates, and other contaminants can readily adhere to the glass434.

FIG. 1is a partial cutaway view of an enhanced solar panel structure430having a top coating layer438. It is advantageous to provide such improvements to the outer optical structures432,434for solar panels10, such as to provide enhanced cleaning, and/or to provide improved light adsorption. Coatings438can be applied to any of:used, i.e. existing, solar panels10(such as with pre-cleaning);new but conventional solar panels10, e.g. in the field (such as with pre-treatment/cleaning); and/ornew enhanced solar panels10, with enhanced coatings438applied during production (before shipment).

In some embodiments, the coating materials438are described as nano-technology materials, as they provide enhanced cleaning and/or improved light adsorption on any of a macroscopic or microscopic level. For example, the coatings438may preferably fill in or reduce voids fissures, and/or scratches436. As well, the coatings438may preferably prevent or reduce buildup of dust, dirt, scale, particulates, and/or other contaminants on the solar panel glass434.

For example a thin layer, e.g. such as but not limited to about 5,000 Angstroms thick, of a hydrophobic coating438, provides a surface to which dust and dirt has difficulty adhering. One such hydrophobic coating438currently used comprises a Teflon™ based coating438, wherein incoming water, such as sprayed on, poured on, or occurring through other means, e.g. rain, condensation, or fog, beads up on the glass434, such as by reducing the surface contact between the liquid and the glass434, and allowing the water to roll off, thereby accelerating the cleaning process.

The use of hydrophilic coatings438, coupled with sunlight and moisture, may preferably react with deposits that land on the glass434, such as to break down organic material to a point where it blows away in the wind, or washes off with water.

In some exemplary embodiments, the enhanced coatings may preferably comprise hydrophobic coatings438, e.g. comprising silicon oxide, or hydrophilic coatings438, e.g. comprising titanium oxide.

Other exemplary embodiments of the enhanced coatings438comprise both hydrophilic and hydrophobic components, such as to provide a coating material that provides any of reaction with and/or repelling incident water and/or contaminants.

Further exemplary embodiments of the enhanced coatings438may preferably comprise a component, e.g. an interference coating438, that reduces the reflectivity of the glass434, such as to allow more light to penetrate the glass and strike the solar cell structure432, to produce more electricity.

Solar panels10, e.g. such as conventional solar panels may therefore be enhanced by any of a wide variety of coatings438, such as to repel water, absorb light, and/or break down organic material. Such enhanced coatings438may preferably be used for any of reducing dirt buildup on solar panel glass layers434, reducing cleaning time, and/or increasing the level of cleanliness achievable through cleaning procedures.

Rack Mounting Angles for Solar Panel Arrays.

FIG. 2is a simplified schematic view440of an array34of solar panels10, e.g. enhanced solar panels10a-10n, such as assembled with one or more frame members444, having a rack mounting angle ø446.

Fluid delivery systems452, such as but not limited to a manifold and one or more spray mechanisms, may preferably provide any of cleaning and/or cooling for one or more solar panels10, such as by spraying or otherwise distributing water, which may further comprise a cleaner, over the incident surfaces450aof an array34of one or more panels10.

As seen inFIG. 2, the exemplary panels10have a rack mounting angle446. Conventional solar panel arrays have commonly been mounted with a rack angle446greater than zero degrees, such as to provide an increase in power harvest. For example, many solar panel arrays34located in the Northern hemisphere have a rack mounting angle of about 8-10 degrees.

A conventional array34of solar panels10that are installed flat on a flat roof can theoretically provide 100 percent coverage across the roof, while a conventional array of solar panels10that are installed with an eight degree slope on such a roof provides about 90 percent coverage, because of the aisle typically required between racking systems, such as to avoid shading between racks.

Panel arrays34that have substantially higher rack angles, e.g. 20 degrees, have a higher front to back height ratio, which typically requires a larger distance between the racking structural rows, thereby resulting in less room for panels10, such as for a horizontal roof installation. e.g. about 70 percent coverage for a flat roof system.

In an enhanced power generation system40that includes a fluid delivery system452, such as for cleaning and/or cooling, the rack angle446may preferably be chosen for fluid movement, e.g. water run off, as well as for power harvest.

For example, one current embodiment of an enhanced power generation system40that includes a fluid delivery system452, installed in Menlo Park, Calif., has a rack mounting angle446of about 8 degrees toward the South, which serves to increase power harvest and also allows testing of a fluid delivery system452.

The specific rack angle446for a solar panel installation may preferably be chosen to facilitate self-cleaning during rainfall, automated, i.e. robotic, cleaning, and/or automated cooling, such as to reduce or avoid maintenance and/or cleaning problems associated with flat mounted panels10.

For example, for the specific solar panels10used for the aforementioned installation, and as recommended for many fluid delivery systems452, a rack angle446of at least 10 degrees (toward the South in the Northern hemisphere or toward the North in the Southern hemisphere) may preferably provide greater fluid movement, e.g. water run off, such as to decrease residual build up of impurities along the surface and lower edges of the solar panels10.

As the rack mounting angle446is increased, such as between 15-20 degrees toward the Equator, fluid runoff is increased, which can promote fluid reclamation and avoid deposition of contaminants at the lower edges of solar panels10. The increased rack angle446also typically allows for a higher total year round harvest of electricity for installations that can accommodate such configurations, since in the winter, the Sun is lower on the horizon, so the additional tilt446of the panels10allows more light to be harvested. Because the higher slope results in better cleaning, there is a trade off between effective cleaning and the concentration of panels10on the roof.

Enhanced Pole-Mounted Solar Power Systems, Structures and Processes.

Enhanced solar power structures provide a wide variety of solutions for solar power production throughout many distributed environments.

Numerous regions within the United States and across the world use power distribution structures702, such as but not limited to elevated poles and/or towers702(FIG. 22,FIG. 23), to support power lines704(FIG. 22,FIG. 23) and/or phone lines, wherein the poles and/or towers702are typically installed, operated, and maintained by respective utilities. While some areas, such as within urban or suburban environments, have installed power lines702and/or communication land lines below ground, a vast number or poles and towers702remain in service.

Several embodiments of enhanced power structures700, e.g.700a(FIG. 22);700j(FIG. 41), are mountable to such poles and/or towers702, to provide localized controlled production of solar power, which may preferably further comprise a local DC to AC power inverter54that is connectable714to the neighboring power grid58, and may be configured to send and/or receive signals722(FIG. 22) over respective communication links22.

The exemplary enhanced power structures700disclosed herein typically provide support for one or more solar panels10, such as for but not limited to flat or arched embodiments700. In stationary embodiments700, the panels10may preferably be aligned toward the Equator, wherein the panels10may preferably be aligned toward the South if installed in the Northern Hemisphere, or toward the North, if installed in the Southern Hemisphere.

Rotatable configurations of enhanced power structures700are also disclosed herein, wherein the solar arrays34may be aligned to increase the power harvest based on any of location, time of day, available light, or any combination thereof. For example, some embodiments of the enhanced power structures700are controllably rotatable to face toward East in the morning, toward the South at midday, and toward the West at sunset.

Panel Mount Structures.

FIG. 3is a top schematic view of an exemplary curved frame structure460a.FIG. 4is a front schematic view480of an exemplary curved frame structure460a.FIG. 5is a side schematic view490of an exemplary curved frame structure460a.FIG. 6is a perspective view500of an exemplary curved frame structure460a. In some embodiments, the curved frame structures460aare comprised of corrosion resistant metal strips462,464,466,468, e.g. such as comprising but not limited to stainless steel.

The exemplary curved frame structure460aseen inFIG. 3comprises an inner pole mount462, which may be directly connectable to a pole structure702, such as for stationary structures700, or may be rotatably mounted to a pole structure702, such as with a concentric bearing assembly736(FIG. 24), for rotatable power generation structures700. The exemplary curved frame structure460aseen inFIG. 3also comprises a curved face frame464and a rear support frame466, which are fixably attached to the inner pole mount462, such as with extension brackets468. The exemplary curved frame structure460aseen inFIG. 3toFIG. 6may preferably be constructed with fasteners, or weldably fabricated.

FIG. 7is a top schematic view of an exemplary curved channel stay510.FIG. 8is a front schematic view520of an exemplary curved channel stay510, having an inner side522athat corresponds to an attached solar array34, and an outer side522bopposite the inner side522a. The exemplary curved channel stay seen inFIG. 7comprises a frame attachment face514bhaving a mounting surface516, such as for connection to a curved face frame464(FIG. 32). The radius512of the frame attachment face514bcorresponds to the outer convex surface of the curved face frame464. The exemplary curved channel stay seen inFIG. 7also comprises a convex array attachment face514aopposite the concave frame attachment face514b, which comprises an attachment boss518having a channel524for retaining a solar array34, comprising one or more solar panel10.

FIG. 9is a side schematic view530of an exemplary curved channel stay510.FIG. 10is a perspective view540of an exemplary curved channel stay510. In some embodiments, screw holes542(FIG. 10) are defined in the curved channel stays510, and may preferably be countersunk to avoid interference. To mount the main support, the user USR first slides a solar array34into place, using vertical channel stays690(FIG. 21). Once in place, the top and bottom curved channel stays510are bolted, to lock the solar panel10in place. A sealant694(FIG. 21), e.g. an epoxy sealant, may be applied to hold the solar panel10in the respective channels524.

FIG. 11is top schematic view of an exemplary flat panel mounting frame460b. The exemplary frame structure460bseen inFIG. 11comprises an inner pole mount structure462, which may be directly connectable to a pole structure702, such as for stationary structures700, or may be rotatably mounted to a pole structure702, such as with a concentric bearing assembly736(FIG. 24), for rotatable power generation structures700. The exemplary frame structure460bseen inFIG. 11also comprises a planar face frame552, such as having a defined width554, e.g. 24 inches, and braces566that are fixably attached between the inner pole mount462and the planar face frame552.FIG. 12is a front schematic view580of an exemplary planar panel mounting frame460b, having a first side582a, and a second side582bopposite the first side582a.FIG. 13is a side schematic view590of an exemplary planar panel mounting frame460b.FIG. 14is a perspective view600of an exemplary planar panel mounting frame460b. In some embodiments, the planar panel mounting frames460bare comprised of corrosion resistant metal strips, e.g. stainless steel, such as for ease of use and longevity in the field. The exemplary planar frame structures460bseen inFIG. 11toFIG. 14may preferably be constructed with fasteners, or may be weldably fabricated.

FIG. 15is top schematic view of an exemplary planar channel stay620.FIG. 16is a front schematic view630of an exemplary planar channel stay620.FIG. 17is a side schematic view640of an exemplary planar channel stay620.FIG. 18is a perspective view650of an exemplary planar channel stay620. In some embodiments, the planar channel stays620are mounted using the same procedure as the curved channel stay510, and may preferably be comprised from stainless steel extrusions, such as to prevent galvanic reactions. In some embodiments, the planar channel stays620have the same cross-sectional profile as the curved channel stays510or vertical channel stays690(FIG. 21).

FIG. 19is a detailed top schematic view660of an alternate embodiment of a curved frame structure460a, such as comprised of stainless steel bands, wherein the material may preferably be chosen to have a sufficient yield strength to support the assembly. Holes through the curved panel mount may preferably be countersunk, such as to avoid any bolt interference.

FIG. 20is a detailed top schematic view670of an alternate embodiment of a planar frame structure460b, which may be comprised in a similar manner to the curved frame structure460aseen inFIG. 19, e.g. such as comprised of stainless steel bands, wherein the material may preferably be chosen to have a sufficient yield strength to support the assembly. The use of stainless steel bands may also provide some adjustability, such as for connection to a wide variety of power utility poles702.

FIG. 21is a partial cutaway view of an exemplary vertical channel stay690. In some embodiments, the length of the vertical channel stay is 118 inches when used with the curved channel stays510. In other embodiments, the length of the vertical channel stay690is 79 inches when used with the planar channel stays620. The holes692defined in the vertical channel stay690may preferably be counter bored, such as to allow for four mounting points for attachment to curved frame structures460aor planar frame structures460b.

FIG. 22is a partial schematic view of an exemplary pole-mounted stationary arched solar power structure700ahaving local DC to AC inverter712, e.g. a micro-inverter712.FIG. 23is a partial front view726of an exemplary pole-mounted stationary arched solar power structure700a. In some exemplary embodiments of pole-mounted stationary arched solar power structures700, e.g.700a, the solar array34comprises at least one solar panel10, e.g. a flexible 300 watt panel10, e.g. 36 inches wide by 10 feet long, that is mounted to a curved, e.g. hemispherical, mounting rack706a, having a radius of 12 inches and a length of 10 feet, which is fixedly-mountable to a utility distribution pole702, i.e. a power pole702, having a defined characteristic pole axis728, and an exemplary diameter708of 10 inches.

In a current exemplary embodiment of the pole-mounted stationary arched solar power structure700a, the solar array34comprises a flexible thin-film panel10, Part No. SFX-i200, available through Solopower, Inc. of San Jose, Calif., wherein the 200 watt thin-film panel has a width of 0.88 meters, a length of 2.98 meters.

In the Northern hemisphere, the exemplary pole-mounted stationary arched solar power structure700amay typically be mounted facing southward, to maximize local power production. The exemplary pole-mounted stationary arched solar power structure700aseen inFIG. 22andFIG. 23extends from and wraps around the power pole702, wherein the solar array34may define and arc up to approximately one hundred eighty degrees. The pole-mounted structure700amay preferably provide a vertical plane for the solar panel array34, wherein the solar panels10are self-cleaning, since less dirt accumulates on the vertical panel surface435(FIG. 1), and at least a portion of any accumulated dirt is cleaned through any of wind, rain, dew, or fog. Furthermore the outer surface435of the flexible solar panels10may further comprise an outer coating layer438(FIG. 1), to further prevent buildup of dirt and/or promote cleaning.

The flexible solar array34, comprising one or more solar panels10, is mountably supported to a mounting rack706, e.g.706a, which may preferably be comprised of any of polyethylene or polycarbonate. The mounting rack706amay preferably be attached directly or indirectly to one or more pole mount structures460, e.g.460a, which are mountable to a pole structure702or to other stationary object. An access structure710may also be provided, such as on the north side of the pole structure702, e.g. a utility distribution pole702, whereby service personnel can access the solar panel structure700, as well as neighboring power lines704, phone lines, and/or other items.

The exemplary pole-mounted stationary arched solar power structure700aseen inFIG. 22andFIG. 23also comprises a local DC to AC inverter712, e.g. a micro-inverter712, for inversion of array DC power to AC power, for AC electrical connection714to the local power grid58.

The DC to AC inverter712may be selected based on a wide variety of features, such as but not limited to any of input panel power (nameplate STC), maximum input voltage, peak power tracking voltage, maximum short circuit current, maximum input current, maximum output power, nominal output current, nominal and extended output voltage and range, nominal and extended frequency and range, power factor, nominal efficiency, nominal power point tracking accuracy, temperature range, standby power consumption, size, weight, environmental rating, communications capabilities, and/or warranty. In some system embodiments700, e.g.700a, the DC to AC inverter712may comprise a Model No. M215 micro inverter, available through Enchase Energy, of Petaluma, Calif.

A communication link22, e.g. wired or wireless, is preferably connectable to the DC to AC inverter712. While some embodiments of the communications link22are wireless, other embodiments of the communications link22may comprise a wired link22, such as through any of a phone line, a dedicated line, or as a piggy-backed communications signal link22over one or more existing lines, e.g. through one or more of the power lines704.

Each of the pole-mounted stationary arched solar power structures700atypically comprises a mechanism for transmission and receipt of signals722, for tracking and/or local control of voltage and/or current delivered to the power lines704through the DC to AC inverter712. The DC to AC inverter712may also preferably be configured for any of local or off-site control of start-up, daily shutdown, fail safe/emergency shutdown, and/or maintenance modes of operation.

Some embodiments of the DC to AC inverter712may further be configured to provide controlled rotation734or other movement of one or more solar panels10in pole-mounted rotatable solar power structures700, e.g.700b(FIG. 24), such as based on location, time of day, date, shading, maximum illumination direction, and/or service modes. e.g. shutting down a panel and locking in position to provide for worker access to a utility distribution pole702.

Outgoing signals722bover the communication link22are typically sent to a controller or server, associated with the operating entity, e.g. such as but not limited to a local or regional utility, which may provide control through a regional location or through a central location, e.g. headquarters. The signals722may be transferred over a network, such as but not limited to the Internet or a cloud network.

FIG. 24is a partial schematic view730of an exemplary pole-mounted rotatable arched solar power structure700bhaving a local DC to AC inverter712.FIG. 25is a partial front view740of an exemplary pole-mounted rotatable arched solar power structure700b.FIG. 26is a partial schematic view742of an exemplary pole-mounted rotatable arched solar power structure700b, located in the Northern Hemisphere at a first time T1, e.g. early morning, wherein the solar array34is rotatably positioned743ain a generally Eastward direction.FIG. 27is a partial schematic view744of the pole-mounted rotatable arched solar power structure700bofFIG. 26, at a second time T2, e.g. about 12:00 PM, wherein the solar array34is rotatably positioned743nin a generally Southward direction.FIG. 28is a partial schematic view746of the pole-mounted rotatable arched solar power structure700bofFIG. 26andFIG. 27, at a third time T3, wherein the solar array34is rotatably positioned743sin a generally Westward direction.

While the sequential views of the exemplary pole-mounted rotatable arched solar power structure700bshown inFIG. 26toFIG. 28indicate three discreet times during the day, it should be understood that the panel rotation mechanism732, may preferably be operated734continuously or sequentially throughout the day, e.g. such as but not limited to every minute, every ten minutes, or every hour. At the end of the day, such as during system shutdown, during the night, or during start up the next morning, the rotatable solar array34is rotated734back to its beginning morning position, e.g.743a.

The exemplary pole-mounted rotatable arched solar power structure700bseen inFIG. 24throughFIG. 28may preferably comprise the same mounting rack706aas the pole-mounted stationary arched solar power structure700aseen inFIG. 22andFIG. 23. However, the rotatable arched solar power structure700bis rotatably movable734about the utility distribution pole702, such as with respect to concentric bearings736(FIG. 24) mounted between the inner mount structure462and the pole702. In some embodiments, the solar array34is controllably rotatable734up to 180 degrees, e.g. up to 90 degrees clockwise or counterclockwise from a central Southward position about the utility distribution pole702, from east in the AM to west in the PM, under computer control. The solar panel mounting structure460amay preferably include one or more tracks or guides736, e.g. roller bearing guide assemblies, wherein the rotatable solar array mounting rack460amay be rotated734about the central pole702.

In some exemplary embodiments of the pole-mounted rotatable arched solar power structure700b, the solar array34comprises a flexible 300 watt panel, e.g. 36 inches wide by 10 feet long, that is mounted to a curved, e.g. hemispherical, solar array rack706a, having a radius of 12 inches and a length of 10 feet, which is rotatably mountable to a central support structure, which in turn is mounted to a utility distribution pole702, i.e. power pole702, having an exemplary diameter of 10 inches.

The circumference of the exemplary arched solar array34in the above example is about 37.7 inches, as compared to a circumference of about 15.7 inches around half of the utility distribution pole702having a diameter of 10 inches. In both planar and curved embodiments of the pole-mounted rotatable arched solar power structures700, the width of the solar arrays34may preferably be configured to greater than half the circumference of the power distribution structures, e.g. poles or towers702, upon which they are installed, since the solar arrays34are extendably mounted, i.e. cantilevered out, from the pole structures702.

Therefore, pole-mounted stationary and rotatable arched solar power structures700a,700bmay readily provide a substantially larger area for solar cells12, as compared to systems having stationary thin film panels that are wrapped directly to a utility distribution poles702. The size of the perimeter or diameter of the mounting rack706afor pole-mounted stationary and rotatable arched solar power structures700a,700bmay be chosen based on one or more factors, such as but not limited to any of available panel sizes, cost, zoning, wind, shading, and/or the rotational range of the system, e.g. 180 degrees, 150 degrees, 120 degrees, etc.

In the Northern hemisphere, the exemplary pole-mounted rotatable arched solar power structure700bmay preferably be rotatable734to face from the East to the West, toward the Equator, to maximize local power production.

The exemplary pole-mounted rotatable arched solar power structure700bseen inFIG. 24andFIG. 28may preferably extend around the power pole by up to 180 degrees, and is typically configured to provide a vertical plane for the solar array34, comprising one or more solar panels10, wherein the solar panels10are self-cleaning, since less dirt accumulates on the vertical panel surfaces435(FIG. 1), and at least a portion of any accumulated dirt is cleaned through any of wind, rain, dew, or fog. Furthermore the surface435of such flexible solar panels10may further comprise an outer coating layer438(FIG. 1), to further prevent buildup of dirt and/or promote cleaning.

The flexible solar panels10are mountably supported to a mounting rack706a, which may preferably comprise any of polyethylene or polycarbonate, wherein the mounting rack706ais attached directly or indirectly to one or more pole mount structures460a, which are rotatably mountable736to a pole structure702or other stationary object. An access structure710, e.g. a service ladder, may also be provided, such as on the north side of the pole702, wherein service personnel can access the solar panel structure700b, as well as neighboring power lines704, phone lines, and/or other items.

While the exemplary pole-mounted rotatable arched solar power structure700bseen inFIG. 24throughFIG. 28shows a flexible solar array34that is curved and supported in a fixed arc, e.g. having a 24 inch diameter, wherein the array34and mounting rack706aare rotatable734as an assembly, an alternate system embodiment700bmay preferably comprise a flexible array34that is controllably moved in relation to one or more tracks having a defined arc, such as a movable screen, curtain, or a “Lazy Susan” style track system.

The exemplary pole-mounted rotatable arched solar power structure700bseen inFIG. 24throughFIG. 28also comprises a local DC to AC inverter712, e.g. a micro-inverter712, for inversion of array DC power to AC power, and for an AC electrical connection714to the local power grid58. The DC to AC inverter712for pole-mounted rotatable arched solar power structures700may preferably be selected based on a wide variety of features, such as but not limited to any of input panel power (nameplate STC), maximum input voltage, peak power tracking voltage, maximum short circuit current, maximum input current, maximum output power, nominal output current, nominal and extended output voltage and range, nominal and extended frequency and range, power factor, nominal efficiency, nominal power point tracking accuracy, temperature range, standby power consumption, size, weight, environmental rating, communications capabilities, and/or warranty. In some system embodiments700, e.g.700b, the DC to AC inverter712comprises a Model No. M215 micro inverter, available through Enchase Energy, of Petaluma, Calif.

A communication link22, e.g. wired or wireless, is preferably connectable to the DC to AC inverter712. While some embodiments of the communications link22are wireless, other embodiments of the communications link22may comprise a wired link22, such as through any of a phone line, a dedicated line, or as a piggy-backed communications signal link22over one or more existing lines, e.g. through one or more of the power lines704.

The local DC to AC inverter712, e.g. a micro-inverter712, may preferably be configured, for the receipt and transmission of signals722, e.g.722a,722b, such as for tracking and/or local control of voltage and/or current delivered to the power lines704through the DC to AC inverter712. The local DC to AC inverter712may be configured for any of local or off-site control of start-up, daily shutdown, fail safe/emergency shutdown, and/or maintenance modes of operation. A controller such as in conjunction with or within the DC to AC inverter712, may comprise a mechanism732for rotation734or other movement of one or more solar panels10, such as based on location, time, shading, maximum illumination direction, and/or service modes. e.g. shutting down an array34or panel10, and locking in position to provide for worker access to a utility distribution pole702.

Outgoing signals722bover the communication link22are typically sent to a controller or server, e.g.153, e.g. associated with the operating entity, such as but not limited to a local or regional utility, which may provide control through a regional location or through a central location, e.g. headquarters. The signals722may be transferred over a network158, such as but not limited to the Internet or a cloud network.

The enhanced pole-mounted solar power structures700disclosed herein provide a localized DC to AC inverter712, e.g. a micro-inverter712, and localized AC connections714to the power lines704, e.g. right at or near the utility distribution pole702. Therefore, there are no transmission costs or losses associated with the power produced at the enhanced pole-mounted solar power structures700.

Pole-Mounted Stationary Flat Solar Power Structures.

FIG. 29is a partial schematic view750of an exemplary pole-mounted stationary planar solar power structure700c.FIG. 30is a partial front view756of an exemplary pole-mounted stationary planar solar power structure700c.

In some exemplary embodiments of the pole-mounted stationary planar solar power structure700c, the solar array34comprises a flexible rectangular 300 watt panel10, e.g. having a width28(FIG. 2) of 36 inches and a length29(FIG. 2) of 10 feet, which is mounted to a planar mounting rack706b, having a corresponding width of 36 inches and length of 10 feet, wherein the planar mounting rack706bis fixedly-mountable to a utility distribution pole702, i.e. power pole702, having an exemplary diameter708of 10 inches. In another current exemplary embodiment of the pole-mounted stationary arched solar power structure700c, the solar array34comprises Part No. SFX-i200 solar panel, available through Solopower, Inc. of San Jose, Calif., wherein the 200 watt thin-film panel10has a width28of 0.88 meters, and a length29of 2.98 meters.

In the Northern hemisphere, the exemplary pole-mounted stationary planar solar power structure700cmay preferably be mounted facing southward, to maximize the local power production. The power production for an exemplary pole-mounted stationary planar solar power structure700c, such as having a 20″ wide by 10′ long thin-film panel10producing 200 watts mounted to a 20″ by 10′ rack facing South, is greater than the power production of a pole-mounted stationary solar power structure700ahaving a 180 degree curved mounting706athat is similarly oriented, since the average incident light energy is greater for the flat configuration.

The exemplary pole-mounted stationary planar solar power structure700cseen inFIG. 29andFIG. 30is typically configured to provide a vertical plane for the solar array34, comprising one or more solar panels10, wherein the solar panels10are inherently self-cleaning, since less dirt accumulates on the vertical panel surfaces435(FIG. 1), and at least a portion of any accumulated dirt is cleaned through any of wind, rain, dew, or fog. The outer surfaces435of the flexible solar panels10may also comprise an outer coating layer438(FIG. 1), to further prevent buildup of dirt and/or promote cleaning.

The flexible solar array34is mountably supported to a planar mounting rack706b, which may preferably comprise any of polyethylene or polycarbonate, wherein the planar mounting rack706bis attached directly or indirectly to one or more planar panel mount structures460b, which are mountable to pole structure702or other stationary object. An access structure710, e.g. a ladder, may also be provided, such as on the North side of the pole structure702, wherein service personnel can access the solar panel structure700c, as well as any of neighboring power lines704, phone lines, or other items.

The exemplary pole-mounted stationary planar solar power structure700cseen inFIG. 29andFIG. 30similarly comprises a local DC to AC inverter712, e.g. a micro-inverter712, for inversion of array DC power to AC power, and for AC electrical connection714to the local power grid58. A DMPPT module18may also be provided, such as within or otherwise associated with the DC to AC inverter712.

A communication link22, e.g. wired or wireless, is preferably connectable to the micro-inverter712. While some embodiments of the communications link22are wireless, other embodiments of the communications link22may comprise a wired link22, such as through any of a phone line, a dedicated line, or as a piggy-backed communications signal link22over one or more existing lines, e.g. through one or more of the power lines704.

The local DC to AC inverter712, e.g. a micro-inverter712, may preferably be configured, for the receipt and transmission of signals722, e.g. for tracking and/or local control of voltage and/or current delivered to the power lines704through the DC to AC inverter712. The local DC to AC inverter712may be configured for any of local or off-site control of start-up, daily shutdown, fail safe/emergency shutdown, and/or maintenance modes of operation.

Outgoing signals722bover the communication link22may preferably be sent to a controller or server, e.g.153, such as associated with the operating entity, e.g. such as but not limited to a local or regional utility, which may provide control through a regional location or through a central location, e.g. headquarters. The outgoing, i.e. uplink, signals922bmay be transferred over a network, such as but not limited to the Internet or a cloud network.

The rotatable planar solar power structure700dseen inFIG. 31throughFIG. 34may be similar in mounting460bto the stationary planar solar power structure700cseen inFIG. 29andFIG. 30, except for the use of tracks or guides736, e.g. roller bearing guides, that allow the mounting rack706band corresponding solar array34to rotate734, e.g. up to 180 degrees, around the power pole702. In some system embodiments, the mounting rack706band corresponding solar array34may preferably be rotated based on any of location, time of day, available light, shading, service needs, startup, shutdown, or any combination thereof. For example, the mounting rack706band corresponding solar array34may be controllably rotated734, e.g. clockwise in the Northern hemisphere) from the east in the morning toward the west in the afternoon, such as responsive to any of local or remote computer control.

Transmission Line Mounted Solar Power Structures.

FIG. 35is a partial schematic view780of a transmission line mounted solar power structure700e. In one exemplary embodiment, the solar array comprises a 36″ wide by 10′ long thin-film solar panel10that is mounted, with or without a mounting rack784, flat on top of three power transmission lines704. The solar panel10and mounting rack784may preferably be centered and locked onto the top of the power pole702, such as with 5′ overhang left and right of the power pole702, with the solar panel10attached to the power lines704for support, and separated from the power lines704with a high dielectric material786. A local DC to AC inverter712, e.g. a micro inverter712, is connected to the DC outputs of the solar array34. The DC to AC inverter712also provides a local AC connection714to the local power grid58, through the power transmission lines704.

Pole Mounted Solar Concentrator Structures.

FIG. 36is a partial schematic view800of an exemplary pole-mounted arched solar concentrating power structure700f.FIG. 37is a partial schematic view820of an exemplary pole-mounted planar solar concentrating power structure700g.

In an exemplary embodiment of the pole-mounted solar concentrating power structures700f,700g, a 24 inch wide by 10 foot long solar concentrating panel804, e.g. heliostat technology, is mounted to a corresponding mounting rack706, e.g.706a,706b, and may further comprise roller bearing guides736and a rotation mechanism732, e.g. a drive motor732, which allows the solar concentrating panels804to be controllably rotated734around the power pole702, e.g. up to 180 degrees, from east in the morning to west in the afternoon, such as responsive to any of local or remote computer control. The use of heliostat technology, as applied to one or more of the embodiments700f,700g, although more complex, may suitably be implemented to provide more electricity than an installation without such heliostat mechanisms, e.g. up to an approximate factor of five times over array embodiments without solar power concentration.

Pole Mounted Solar Power Structures Integrated with Wind Generation Systems.

FIG. 38is a partial schematic view830of an exemplary pole-mounted arched solar power structure700h, which is integrated with a wind turbine832.FIG. 39is a partial schematic view840of an exemplary pole-mounted planar solar power structure700i, which is integrated with a wind turbine832.

In such combined solar and wind power generation systems700h,700i, a wind turbine832may preferably be mounted to the north side of the power pole702, so as not to interfere with a thin-film solar array34mounted to the south side of the pole702. Depending on the solar array width28and length29, the combined solar and wind power generation systems732h,731imay produce more energy at a given location, in areas that have sufficient wind speed and duration, as compared to a pole-mounted system700that provides only solar power. As well, since the duty cycles of the solar power system and the wind power system are not identical, the power generation from one may be used to provide power to the other, such as during start up or for troubleshooting.

Exemplary System Operation.

FIG. 40is a flowchart of an exemplary process122bfor operation of an enhanced pole-mounted solar power structure700. As a solar array34starts producing a voltage102and current104when light is shining on it, once the voltage102reaches a threshold voltage116, e.g. approximately 4.5 to 6.5 Volts DC, the DC to AC inverter712automatically wakes up126, and starts performing the necessary checks128,130b, before switching over to RUN Mode132b. For rotatable system embodiments700, e.g.700b,700d,700j(FIG. 41), the position743, e.g.743a-743s(FIGS. 26-28) and rotation734of the rotatable solar array34may be monitored, and/or controlled.

As the voltage102of the solar panel10increases, the micro-inverter712starts boosting the voltage102from the solar array34to the local distribution bus42feeding the local micro-inverter712. This wait is necessary to prevent the loss of control power from the controller circuit70(FIG. 7) when switching begins. By using control inputs, the system tracks the maximum power point of the solar array34, and boosts the voltage out to the local DC Bus42feeding the local DC to AC inverter712, e.g. a micro-inverter712. Since the voltage102iis boosted102o, the system as a whole reaches striking voltage for the local DC to AC inverter712in a shorter period than a conventional array of panels10would without DMPPT functionality.

As seen at step134b, the process122bmay controllably updated any of orientation, operation, or initiate shutdown, such as controlled by the DC to AC inverter712. As seen at step136b, such as during shutdown at the end of the day, the process122bmay discontinue output power, return to a home orientation for rotatable system embodiments700, and initiate shutdown138as a threshold voltage is reached.

The local DC to AC inverter712address many of the current limitations of solar power by providing “Early-On” and “Late-Off” for extended harvest times. Since the output from the solar panels10is boosted, the usable power is converted by the local DC to AC inverter712, because the striking voltage is reached sooner and can be held longer, thereby resulting in an increase in harvestable power from each of the solar panels10.

As well, some embodiments of the local DC to AC inverters712and/or DMPPT modules18may preferably be reprogrammable or updatable, such as over the communications link22, wherein different algorithms may be sent and stored within the controllers80, such as for modifying start up, operation, safety and shutdown operations.

The local DC to AC inverters712also help to reduce the effects of partial shading on solar panels10in arrays34. In conventional solar panels, partial shading of a single cell12causes the entire panel and string in which it is connected to reduce power output, and also increases loses due to string mismatch, by lowering the MPPT point for an entire solar array. In contrast to conventional panels, the local DC to AC inverters712and/or DMPPT modules18can controllably compensate for partial shading at the panel level, to boost the DC output signal102o.

The use of local DC to AC inverters712with different embodiments of enhanced pole-mounted systems700provide many advantages over prior technologies. For example, the local DC to AC inverter712can readily be used to boost the DC performance of a pole mounted structure700, and can readily be controlled, either through the communication link22, or locally, e.g. by service personnel, to shut down the associated array34. For solar panels10and/or arrays34that may preferably track production of one or more cells12on a panel10, e.g. a column, the local DC to AC inverter712may be used to locally monitor energy production as a function of column, such as to provide a local set point for rotating the solar array34to center itself toward a direction of maximum power harvest.

It should be understood that the pole mounted structures700and methods for their use may be implemented for systems that do not include DMPPT modules18. As well, local DC to AC inverters712and the methods for their use may be implemented for a wide variety of power generation systems and structures.

Furthermore, while some of the embodiments of pole-mounted solar power structures700are described herein as comprising a single flexible solar panel10that is fixed or rotatably controllable, it should be understood that the pole mounted structures700and methods for their use may be implemented for systems that comprise a plurality of solar panels10, such as for but not limited to available panel geometry, and/or providing wind gaps defined between neighboring panels10.

In addition, while some of the embodiments of pole-mounted solar power structures700are described herein as comprising a track or guides736for rotating solar panel assemblies706, it should be understood that the pole mounted structures700and methods for their use may be rotated using a wide variety of mechanisms, such as structures for relative movement or rotation about the inner diameter of a mounting pole702, structures for relative movement of the solar panels in relation to an outer defined arch, and/or any other mechanism for relative rotation for one or more solar panels10with respect to a fixed utility structure.

For example,FIG. 41is a partial schematic view860of an exemplary pole-mounted solar power structure700jhaving an extended pivot structure864,866. The structure700jmay in some embodiments be stationary, or in other embodiments, be rotatable734about a pivot structure868that extends866, such as from a pole mount864. The exemplary structure seen inFIG. 41is therefore non-concentric to the pole702from which it extends. In some embodiments, the panel rotation mechanism732may operate directly upon an axis925(FIG. 46) associated with the solar panel support structure. While the exemplary DC to AC inverter712, e.g. a micro-inerter712, shown in the embodiment ofFIG. 41is generally located upon the solar panels structure, it should be understood that the DC to AC inverter712and/or DMPPT18, in this or other system embodiments700, may be located at other locations, as desired, such as but not limited to being affixed to any of another portion of the mounting structure864or mounting rack862, to the power pole702itself, or to other associated equipment or structures.

FIG. 42is a partial bird's eye schematic view870of an exemplary pole-mounted rotatable planar solar power structure700j, located in the Northern Hemisphere at a first time T1, wherein the solar array34is rotatably positioned734in a generally Eastward direction743a.FIG. 43is a partial bird's eye schematic view880of the pole-mounted rotatable planar solar power structure700jofFIG. 42at a second time T2, wherein the solar array34is rotatably positioned734in a generally Southward direction743n.FIG. 44is a partial bird's eye schematic view890of the pole-mounted rotatable planar solar power structure700jofFIG. 42andFIG. 43at a third time T3, wherein the solar array34is rotatably positioned734in a generally Westward direction743s. As seen inFIG. 42toFIG. 44, the length of the extension arms866may preferably be greater than half the width of the solar array34, such as to allow at least 180 degrees of rotation734and, depending on the system configuration, may be configured to allow full rotation734of the solar array34, e.g. clockwise rotation and/or counterclockwise rotation.

FIG. 45is a side schematic view900of the pole-mounted rotatable planar solar power structure700jofFIG. 42, wherein the solar array34is rotatably positioned734in a generally Eastward direction743a.FIG. 46is a side schematic view910of the pole-mounted rotatable planar solar power structure700jcorresponding toFIG. 43, wherein the solar array34is rotatably positioned734in a generally Southward direction743n.FIG. 47is a side schematic view920of the pole-mounted rotatable planar solar power structure700jcorresponding toFIG. 44, wherein the solar array34is rotatably positioned734in a generally Westward direction743s. The exemplary pole-mounted rotatable flat solar power structure700jseen inFIG. 41toFIG. 47may preferably allow full rotation734, e.g. clockwise rotation, such as throughout the day during power production, and similarly, to return to a starting position,743, e.g.743a.

While the exemplary pole-mounted rotatable planar solar power structure700jseen inFIG. 41toFIG. 47is disclosed in regard to a planar solar array34and mounting rack862, it should be understood that the power structure700jmay readily be implemented with other profiles, such as but not limited to curved or arched solar arrays34. As well, the curvature in some system embodiments700, e.g.700jis not limited to being concentric to the pole structure702. For example, a solar array34and corresponding mounting rack862may preferably be formed with a substantially gradual curve, i.e. having a large effective radius, such as to effectively collect incoming solar energy, in a similar manner to a planar panel, while providing a more robust mechanical structure, in a similar manner to a curved mounting rack.

Accordingly, although the invention has been described in detail with reference to a particular preferred embodiment, persons possessing ordinary skill in the art to which this invention pertains will appreciate that various modifications and enhancements may be made without departing from the spirit and scope of the disclosed exemplary embodiments.