Patent Publication Number: US-2022234516-A1

Title: System and method for mobile solar generators

Description:
INCORPORATION BY REFERENCE TO ANY PRIORITY APPLICATIONS 
     Any and all applications for which a foreign or domestic priority claim is identified in the Application Data Sheet as filed with the present application, are hereby incorporated by reference in their entirety under 37 CFR 1.57. For example, this application is a continuation of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 17/196,697, filed on Mar. 9, 2021, and entitled “SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR MOBILE SOLAR GENERATORS”, which claims the benefit of priority under 35 U.S.C. § 119(e) of U.S. Provisional Application No. 62/987,669, filed on Mar. 10, 2020, and entitled “SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR MOBILE SOLAR GENERATORS”, the entire disclosure of each of which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety and forms a part of this specification for all purposes. 
    
    
     BACKGROUND 
     Technical Field 
     The development relates to power generation, in particular to systems and methods for mobile solar-powered generators or “solar generators”. 
     Description of the Related Technology 
     Providing power to remote locations can enable life-sustaining and other vital systems. However, many remote regions in the world are without access to a standard energy grid and the power that comes from it. For example, it is expensive to run power lines from energy production factories to remote locations. There is therefore a need to provide power for remote and other locations. 
     SUMMARY OF CERTAIN INVENTIVE ASPECTS 
     The embodiments disclosed herein each have several aspects no single one of which is solely responsible for the disclosure&#39;s desirable attributes. Without limiting the scope of this disclosure, its more prominent features will now be briefly discussed. After considering this discussion, and particularly after reading the section entitled “Detailed Description,” one will understand how the features of the embodiments described herein provide advantages over existing systems, devices and methods for mobile solar power systems. 
     This section of the disclosure describes non-limiting examples of some embodiments. Other embodiments of the disclosed systems and methods may or may not include the features described herein. Moreover, disclosed advantages and benefits can apply only to certain embodiments and should not be used to limit the disclosure. The innovations described throughout this disclosure may be embodied or carried out in a manner that achieves or optimizes one advantage or group of advantages as taught herein without necessarily achieving other advantages as may be taught or suggested herein. Any of the below aspects can be combined with each other as suitable, and/or with any of the other features described in any of the sections herein. The present disclosure contemplates combining one or more features of each of the aspects in each and every suitable combination. 
     Described herein are features for mobile solar-powered generators or “solar generators.” The technology provides the necessary levels of efficient, sustained power supply along with the required safety and security needed in remote locations. Further, an economical and durable mechanical platform with mobility and secure storage capabilities is provided. The system includes solar panels that collect solar energy from the sun which are connected to power electronics, such as charge controllers and inverters to convert the energy to electrical power that is stored in batteries and used to run electrical components, for example to provide electrical power for lighting, well pumps, water treatment, and other systems in remote locations. The system includes a mobile platform, such as a trailer, for transport to and from remote locations. The mobility of the system allows for transportation over rough terrain and movement to where the power is needed on a daily, weekly or monthly basis. Various security and storage features of the system ensure the security, safety, and reliability of the unit, for example by mitigating risks of vandalism during transportation or storage. The solar panels deploy from a secure, protected, stowed configuration to a deployed configuration using spring-loaded hinges and other mechanisms. Some of the features of the system include a folding mechanism, solar panels that are secure and not exposed when stowed, solar panels that secure when deployed to prevent theft or damage, an integrated mobile platform, springs to offset the weight of the folding mechanism, a common hinge for both folding and tilting, and internal components such as the generator and others that are secured when the panels are deployed. Other features form part of this disclosure, as further described herein. Some of the prominent aspects are described below. 
     In one aspect, a mobile, solar-powered electrical generation system is described. The system comprises a mobile platform and a base. The mobile platform has two or more wheels and is configured to attach to a vehicle to tow the mobile platform. The base is carried by the mobile platform and comprises a closed volume enclosing power electronics, the base comprising a plurality of solar modules that at least partially form the closed volume. Each solar module comprises a base frame, two or more panel frames, and two or more solar panels. The base frame comprises frame members and sidewalls supported by the frame members, with each base frame supported by the mobile platform. The two or more panel frames are rotatably attached to each other and supported by the base frame. Each of the two or more solar panels is supported by a respective panel frame. The two or more panel frames are configured to rotate to deploy from a stowed configuration where solar energy collecting sides of the two or more solar panels are not exposed, to a deployed configuration where the two or more solar panels are exposed and form a planar solar array configured to collect solar energy from the sun. Each solar module is configured to connect with an other solar module to modularly expand the base to a desired size, with each base frame of each solar module supported by the mobile platform, and the two or more panel frames of each solar module forming a solar panel support frame that supports the planar solar array in the deployed configuration. 
     Various embodiments of the various aspects may be implemented. For example, the system may further comprise a primary hinge rotatably connecting first and second panel frames of the two or more panel frames to each other, and where the primary hinge also is rotatably connecting the solar panel support frame to the base such that the deployed planar solar array can rotate about the primary hinge relative to the base. The primary hinge may further comprise rigid arms extending away from the base and comprising openings therethrough, and a tube extending through the openings of the rigid arms, such that the rigid arms are rotatably mounted to the tube to connect the primary hinge to the base. The primary hinge may further comprise a plurality of brackets attached to opposing edges of the first and second panel frames with each bracket having an opening extending therethrough, where the tube extends through the respective opening of the plurality of brackets to rotatably connect the first panel frame to the second panel frame. The first bracket of the plurality of brackets may be attached to the first panel frame, a second bracket of the plurality of brackets may be attached to the second panel frame, and the first and second brackets may be offset from each other in a direction parallel to an axis of rotation of the primary hinge. The system may further comprise a secondary hinge rotatably connecting the second panel frame to a third panel frame of the two or more panel frames, the secondary hinge comprising a plurality of brackets and a tube, where the plurality of brackets are attached to opposing edges of the second and third panel frames and each bracket has an opening extending therethrough, and where the tube extends through the respective opening of the plurality of brackets to rotatably connect the second panel frame to the third panel frame. The system may further comprise a linear actuator attached to the base and to one or more panel frames of the two or more panel frames, the linear actuator configured to extend a selected distance to rotate the planar solar array about the hinge to a selected angle to face the sun. The system may further comprise a locking mechanism comprising a pin and first and second brackets extending from respective opposing edges of two adjacent panel frames of the two or more panel frames, the brackets having openings configured to align and to receive the pin therethrough to lock the position of the two adjacent panel frames relative to each other in the deployed configuration. The base may comprise three solar modules, and the two or more panel frames of each solar module may comprise two solar panels. 
     In another aspect a mobile, solar-powered electrical generation system is described. The system comprises a mobile platform, a base, and a linear actuator. The mobile platform comprises two or more wheels and is configured to attach to a vehicle to tow the mobile platform. The base is carried by the mobile platform and comprises a closed volume enclosing power electronics, with the base comprising a plurality of solar modules that at least partially form the closed volume, where each solar module is configured to connect with an other solar module to modularly expand the base to a desired size. Each solar module comprises a base frame, two or more panel frames, two or more solar panels, and a torsion spring. The base frame comprises frame members and sidewalls supported by the frame members, with each base frame supported by the mobile platform. The two or more panel frames are rotatably attached to each other and supported by the base frame to form a solar panel support frame, with at least one of the panel frames of the two more panel frames rotatably connected to the base about a hinge. Each of the two or more solar panels is supported by a respective panel frame of the two or more panel frames, where the two or more panel frames are configured to rotate to deploy from a stowed configuration where solar energy collecting sides of the two or more solar panels are not exposed, to a deployed configuration where the two or more solar panels form a planar array configured to collect solar energy from the sun. The torsion spring is connecting two adjacent panel frames of the two or more panel frames, with the torsion spring configured to bias the two adjacent panel frames into the deployed configuration. The linear actuator is attached to the base and to a panel frame of the two or more panel frames, with the linear actuator configured to extend a selected distance to rotate the planar array about the hinge to a selected angle to face the sun. 
     Various embodiments of the various aspects may be implemented. For example, the hinge may be a primary hinge rotatably connecting first and second panel frames of the two or more panel frames to each other, and where the primary hinge also is rotatably connecting the solar panel support frame to the base such that the deployed planar solar array can rotate about the primary hinge relative to the base, and the system may further comprise a secondary hinge rotatably connecting the second panel frame to a third panel frame of the two or more panel frames. The system may further comprise a capture device projecting outward from opposing edges of the two adjacent panel frames, where opposite ends of the torsion spring attach to respective captures devices of the two adjacent panel frames. The capture device may comprise a central catch and a retainer, the central catch having an opening therethrough, the retainer extending about the central catch, and where the opening of the central catch is configured to receive and secure an end of the torsion spring therein. The system may further comprise two or more protective sheets and electrical wiring. Each protective sheet may be affixed to a rear side of a respective panel frame of the two or more panel frames, where the two or more protective sheets are mounted with tamper-resistant hardware on the rear side of the respective panel frame that is opposite from the solar panel supported by the respective panel frame. The electrical wiring may electrically connect the solar panel to a charge controller and battery, the wiring routed between the protective sheet and the respective panel frame to prevent access to the wiring or to solar panel mounting hardware. The system may include a locking mechanism to lock the position of the two adjacent panel frames relative to each other in a planar configuration. 
     In another aspect, a mobile, solar-powered electrical generation system is described. The system comprises one or more solar modules. Each solar module comprises a base frame, two or more panel frames, two or more solar panels, and a primary hinge. The base frame comprises frame members and sidewalls supported by the frame members. The two or more panel frames are rotatably attached to each other to form a solar panel support frame and are supported by the base frame. The two or more solar panels are each supported by a respective panel frame, where the two or more panel frames are configured to rotate to deploy from a stowed configuration where solar energy collecting sides of the two or more solar panels are not exposed, to a deployed configuration where the two or more solar panels are exposed and form a solar array configured to collect solar energy from the sun. The primary hinge is rotatably connecting first and second panel frames of the two or more panel frames to each other, and the primary hinge also is rotatably connecting the solar panel support frame to the base such that the deployed planar solar array can rotate about the primary hinge relative to the base. 
     Various embodiments of the various aspects may be implemented. Each solar module may be configured to connect with an other solar module to modularly form a base of a desired size. The primary hinge may further comprise rigid arms extending away from the base frame and comprising openings therethrough, and a tube extending through the openings of the rigid arms, such that the rigid arms are rotatably mounted to the tube to connect the primary hinge to the base frame. The primary hinge may further comprise a plurality of brackets attached to opposing edges of the first and second panel frames and each bracket having an opening extending therethrough, where the tube extends through the respective opening of the plurality of brackets to rotatably connect the first panel frame to the second panel frame. A first bracket of the plurality of brackets may be attached to the first panel frame, a second bracket of the plurality of brackets may be attached to the second panel frame, and the first and second brackets may be offset from each other in a direction parallel to an axis of the tube. The system may further comprise a secondary hinge rotatably connecting the second panel frame to a third panel frame of the two or more panel frames, the secondary hinge may comprise a plurality of brackets and a second tube, where the plurality of brackets are attached to opposing edges of the second and third panel frames and each bracket may have an opening extending therethrough, and the second tube may extend through the respective opening of the plurality of brackets to rotatably connect the second panel frame to the third panel frame. The system may further comprise a linear actuator attached to the base frame and to one or more panel frames of the two or more panel frames, with the linear actuator configured to extend a selected distance to rotate the planar solar array about the primary hinge to a selected angle relative to the base frame. 
     In another aspect, a mobile, solar-powered electrical generation system is described. The system comprises a mobile platform, lockable lifting supports and a base. The mobile platform has two or more wheels and is configured to attach to a vehicle to tow the mobile platform. The lockable lifting supports are configured to raise the mobile platform into a raised configuration such that the two or more wheels do not contact the ground. The base is carried by the mobile platform and comprises a lockable closed volume enclosing power electronics, such as a charge controller, an inverter, and a battery, with the base comprising a plurality of solar modules that at least partially form the closed volume, where each solar module is configured to connect with an other solar module to modularly expand the base to a desired size. Each solar module comprises a base frame, two or more panel frames, two or more solar panels, and two or more protective sheets. The base frame comprises frame members and sidewalls supported by the frame members, with each base frame supported by the mobile platform. The two or more panel frames are rotatably attached to each other by one or more hinges and supported by the base frame. Each of the two or more solar panels is supported by a respective panel frame, where the two or more panel frames are configured to rotate via the one or more hinges to deploy from a stowed configuration where solar energy collecting sides of the two or more solar panels are not exposed, to a deployed configuration where the two or more solar panels form a deployed planar solar array configured to collect solar energy from the sun. The deployed planar solar array is rotatably connected to the base via the one or more hinges to allow the deployed planar solar array to rotate relative to the base. Each of the two or more protective sheets is affixed to a rear side of a respective panel frame of the two or more panel frames, where the two or more protective sheets are mounted with tamper-resistant hardware on the rear side of the respective panel frame that is opposite from the solar panel supported by the respective panel frame, and electrical wiring electrically connecting the solar panel to the generator and routed between the each protective sheet and the respective panel frame to prevent access to the wiring or to solar panel mounting hardware. 
     Various embodiments of the various aspects may be implemented. The one or more hinges may comprise a primary hinge rotatably connecting first and second panel frames of the two or more panel frames to each other, and the primary hinge may also be rotatably connecting the two or more panel frames to the base such that the deployed planar solar array can rotate about the primary hinge relative to the base. The primary hinge may further comprise rigid arms extending away from the base, where each rigid arm comprises a first opening therethrough, a plurality of first brackets attached to opposing edges of the first and second panel frames, where each first bracket comprises a second opening therethrough, and a first tube extending through the first and second openings. The one or more hinges may further comprise a secondary hinge rotatably connecting the second panel frame to a third panel frame of the two or more panel frames, with the secondary hinge comprising a plurality of second brackets attached to opposing edges of the second and third panel frames, where each second bracket comprises a third opening therethrough, and a second tube extending through the third openings. The system may further comprise a locking mechanism comprising a pin and first and second brackets extending from respective opposing edges of two adjacent panel frames of the two or more panel frames, with the brackets having openings configured to align and to receive the pin therethrough to lock the position of the two adjacent panel frames relative to each other in the deployed configuration. The system may further comprise a torsion spring connecting two adjacent panel frames of the two or more panel frames, the torsion spring configured to bias the two adjacent panel frames into the deployed configuration, and a linear actuator attached to the base and to one or more panel frames of the two or more panel frames, the linear actuator configured to extend to rotate the planar array about the one or more hinges in a first direction and to retract to rotate the planar array about the one or more hinges in a second direction opposite the first direction. 
     In another aspect, a mobile solar generator comprises a mobile platform, a base, a charge controller, an inverter, a battery, a solar panel support frame, one or more solar panels, a hinge, an actuator, and a lock. The mobile platform has tires for transportation of the system. The base is secured to the mobile platform and includes a secure volume for storing the charge controller, inverter, and battery therein. The frame includes two or more panel frames, that each support one or more of the solar panels, and that are rotatably attached to each other and configured to deploy from a stowed configuration where the solar panels are not exposed to a deployed configuration where the solar panels form a planar array configured to collect solar energy from the sun. The hinge comprises a torsion spring attached to two adjacent panel frames of the two or more panel frames and biases the panel frames toward the planar or partially deployed configuration. The actuator tilts the horizontal planar array at an angle with respect to gravity. The lock secures the deployed array in the deployed configuration. 
     In some embodiments, arms extend outward away from the base and rotatably receive a tube connected to the frame. The frame may rotate about an axis along the tube via the biasing force from the springs. The array may partially deploy to a flat, horizontal orientation. The lock, such as a locking pin, may be inserted through brackets that are rotatably connected to the tube and fixedly attached to adjacent panel frames to prevent relative rotation of adjacent panel frames. The actuator may be a linear actuator. The actuator may be a hydraulic manual linear actuator. Further locking devices may be included to secure the array in the stowed configuration and secure components stored within the base. Tamper-resistant hardware may be included in the panels to prevent theft and damage when in the stowed configuration. 
    
    
     
       BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS 
       The foregoing and other features of the present disclosure will become more fully apparent from the following description and appended claims, taken in conjunction with the accompanying drawings. In the following detailed description, reference is made to the accompanying drawings, which form a part hereof. Understanding that these drawings depict only several embodiments in accordance with the disclosure and are not to be considered limiting of its scope, the disclosure will be described with additional specificity and detail through use of the drawings. In the drawings, similar symbols typically identify similar components, unless context dictates otherwise. It will be understood that elements illustrated in the figures are not necessarily drawn to scale. Further, the illustrative embodiments described in the detailed description, drawings, and claims are not meant to be limiting. The aspects of the present disclosure, as generally described herein, and illustrated in the drawings, can be arranged, substituted, combined, and designed in a wide variety of different configurations, all of which are explicitly contemplated and make part of this disclosure. Other embodiments may be utilized, and other changes may be made, without departing from the spirit or scope of the subject matter presented here. For example, it will be understood that certain embodiments can include more elements than illustrated in a drawing and/or a subset of the elements illustrated in a drawing. As another example, some embodiments can incorporate any suitable combination of features from two or more drawings. 
         FIGS. 1A-1C  are various perspective views of an embodiment of a mobile solar generator with the solar panels in a deployed configuration. 
         FIGS. 2A-2D  are various views of the mobile solar generator of  FIGS. 1A-1C  in a stowed configuration. 
         FIGS. 3A-3F  are various views of a solar module used in the mobile solar generator of  FIGS. 1A-2D  and shown in a stowed configuration. 
         FIGS. 4A-4C  are various views of the solar module of  FIGS. 3A-3F  and shown in a partial deployed configuration. 
         FIGS. 5A-5D  are various views of the solar module of  FIGS. 3A-3F  and shown in a deployed configuration. 
         FIGS. 6A-6F  are various views of the base frame and hinge arms of the solar generator of  FIGS. 1A-1C . 
         FIGS. 7A-7C  are perspective and close-up views of the upper panel frame of the solar generator of  FIGS. 1A-1C . 
         FIGS. 8A-9B  are perspective and close-up views of the middle panel frame of the solar generator of  FIGS. 1A-1C . 
         FIGS. 10A-11D  are perspective and close-up views of the lower panel frame of the solar generator of  FIGS. 1A-1C . 
         FIGS. 12A-14C  are perspective and side views of the upper panel frame having a protective sheet. 
     
    
    
     DETAILED DESCRIPTION 
     The following detailed description is directed to certain specific embodiments of the development. Reference in this specification to “one embodiment,” “an embodiment,” “in some embodiments,” or similar phrases, means that a particular feature, structure, or characteristic described in connection with the embodiment is included in at least one embodiment of the invention. The appearances of such phrases in the specification are not necessarily all referring to the same embodiment, nor are separate or alternative embodiments necessarily mutually exclusive of other embodiments. Moreover, various features are described which may be exhibited by some embodiments and not by others. Similarly, various requirements are described which may be requirements for some embodiments but may not be requirements for other embodiments. 
     Various embodiments will now be described with reference to the accompanying figures, wherein like numerals refer to like elements throughout. The terminology used in the description presented herein is not intended to be interpreted in any limited or restrictive manner, simply because it is being utilized in conjunction with a detailed description of certain specific embodiments of the development. Furthermore, embodiments of the development may include several novel features, no single one of which is solely responsible for its desirable attributes or which is essential to practicing the invention described herein. 
     An embodiment of a mobile solar power generation system  10 , or solar generator, is shown and described with respect to  FIGS. 1A-14C . In particular,  FIGS. 1A-1C  are various perspective views of an embodiment of the system  10  with solar panels  110  in a deployed configuration.  FIGS. 2A-2D  are various views of the system  10  in a stowed configuration.  FIGS. 3A-3F ,  FIGS. 4A-4C , and  FIGS. 5A-5D  are various views of a solar module  120  used in the system  10  and shown respectively in stowed, partial deployed, and deployed configurations. 
     Further,  FIGS. 6A-14C  are various views of structures and components of the solar generator system  10 . In particular,  FIGS. 6A-6D  are various views of a frame  330  for the solar module  120  having primary hinge arms  334 .  FIGS. 7A-14C  are various views of solar panel support frames and hinges used to support and deploy the solar panels  110  in the system  10 . 
     The system  10  is configured to supply power to both off grid and grid-tied systems. Power for the system  10  is provided by photo-voltaic solar panels  110 . The system  10  provides for simple and less expensive manufacturing of the parts and assembly and results in a robust, modular, and secure platform for providing power to remote locations. The power may be stored in one or more batteries for later use. In some embodiments, the system  10  may include electrical plugs or outlets for providing electricity to various electrical components, such as electrical devices, mobile phones, water treatment systems, etc. 
     The system  10  is towed by a mobile platform, such as the trailer  400  as shown in  FIGS. 1A-2D , to the location of deployment. The trailer  400  includes a frame  410  that extends from a front end, configured for connecting to a vehicle, to a rear end to support the solar modules  120 . The trailer  400  includes tires  420  for mobility when being pulled by a vehicle. The trailer may include supports  450  for lifting the trailer  400  and tires  420  off the ground after the system  10  has been deployed to its destination. The supports  450  may include locking features to secure the system  10  off the ground and thereby prevent theft by prevention of towing the trailer  400  away. The locking features and supports  450  may include tamper-resistant hardware. The lifting supports  450  may selectively be raised and locked in position, for example hydraulically, mechanically, etc. 
     On the trailer  400  is affixed a base  300  made up of at least one, but typically multiple, solar modules, such as the three solar modules  120 ,  122 ,  124  in the embodiment described herein. Each solar module  120  is comprised of a at least partially enclosed base frame  310 , which holds the power electronics and is used to support a primary hinge  230 . The modules  120  connect together to form an enclosed volume, which may be continuous or portioned off by sidewalls  312 . Each solar module  120  is comprised of the base frame  310 , a portion of the primary hinge  230  and a portion of the solar panel support frame  201 . The base  300  can mount to the trailer  400 . In particular, the base  300  can be fixedly coupled to the frame  410 . The tires  420  can be mounted to the frame  410 . In some embodiments, the base  300  can be mounted opposite the tires  420 . The base  300  can be welded to the frame  410 . In some embodiments, the base  300  may be secured to the frame  410  using tamper-resistant hardware. The base  300  can be fixedly coupled to solar modules  120 ,  122 ,  124 . The base frames  310  can have frame members and sidewalls. The sidewalls can be supported by the frame members. The frame members can be supported by the trailer  400  and in particular by the frame  410 . 
     A solar array  100  is stowed on the system  10  with the panels  110  having the solar panel cells facing inward and not exposed to the outside. The solar array  100  deploys from the stowed configuration shown in  FIGS. 2A-2D , to the deployed configuration shown in  FIGS. 1A-1C , and can stow back from the deployed to the stowed configuration. The array  100  includes the solar panels  110 . As shown, there may be eighteen solar panels  110 , with six solar panels  110  per solar module  120 . There may be one or more solar panels supported by a single panel frame. As shown each panel frame supports two solar panels thereon. The solar panels  110  may deploy into six columns  102 ,  103 ,  104 ,  105 ,  106 ,  107  as shown. There may be one, two, three, four, five, six, seven, eight, nine, or more columns. The panel frames  110  are each split into two groupings of solar panels per supporting panel frame  210 ,  212 ,  214 . In some embodiments, there may be one, two or more solar panels per panel frame  210 ,  212 ,  214 . The panel frames  210 ,  212 ,  214  define the three rows of solar panels  110 . In some embodiments, there may be one, two, three, four or more rows of solar panels. In some embodiments, the upper and lower panel frames  210  and  214  may be identical panel frames but oriented differently, to save on costs and simplify manufacturing. 
     A deployment system  200  deploys the array  100 . The deployment system  200  includes an actuator  250 , the primary hinge  230 , and the secondary hinge  220 . The system  200  may also include various locking features further described herein. The solar modules  120  each have three panel frames  210 ,  212 ,  214  (that together form part of the overall frame  201 ) which rotate and stow such that the panels are secure and resistant to vandalism and defacing during storage and transportation. The top panel frame  210  orients the upper most panels  110  downward so that they are not exposed (cells not facing up) when the system  10  is in its folded configuration. The primary hinge  230  is used to rotate the lower panel frames  214  relative to the middle panel frames  212 . The secondary hinge  220  at the opposite side of the solar panel support frame  201  from the primary hinge  230  is used to rotate the top panel frames  210  relative to the middle panel frames  212 . The panel frames may be rotated inward to stow, our outward to deploy. By rotating inward, all panel frames  210 ,  212 ,  214  lay on top of one another for transportation and storage. This facilitates compactness and security of the mobile solar generators  10  for transportation and storage. By rotating outward, the panel frames form a planar array. The entire planar array can be rotated about the primary hinge  230  to orient the planar array as desired. The primary hinge  230  thus serves two rotation functions: rotating individual panel frames relative to each other, but also rotating the entire deployed planar array. The primary hinge  230  and secondary hinge  220  may have similar hardware for rotating the respective panels relative to each other, while the primary hinge  230  may have additional hardware to allow for rotation of the entire array, as further described herein. 
     The middle panel frame  212  is hingedly or rotatably attached to the lower panel frame  214  via the primary hinge  230  and hingedly or rotatably attached to the upper panel frame  210  via the secondary hinge  220 . In the stowed configuration, shown in  FIGS. 2A-2D , the panel frames  210 ,  212 ,  214  are folded together to form a flat “sandwich” orientation for a low-volume storage configuration.  FIG. 4A  shows a partial deployed configuration of the panel frames  210 ,  212 ,  214 . During deployment, the lower panel frame  214  rotates outward from the middle panel frame  212  and then the upper panel frame  210  rotates outward from the middle panel frame  212  to the partial deployed configuration. In some embodiments, the upper panel frame  210  rotates outward from the middle panel frame  212  and then the lower panel frame  214  rotates outward from the middle panel frame  212 . 
     The system may include the primary hinge  230  rotatably connecting the first and second panel frames of the two or more panel frames to each other. The primary hinge  230  may also rotatably connect the solar panel support frame  201  to the base such that the deployed planar solar array can rotate about the primary hinge  230  relative to the base. 
     In the deployed configuration the solar energy collecting sides of the solar panels  110  are exposed. The solar panels can form a planar solar array when deployed. In the stowed configuration, the solar panels  110  face inwards. The inward facing panels  110  are thereby protected for transportation and storage. Each solar module  120 ,  122 ,  124  may be configured to connect with an other solar module  120 ,  122 ,  124  to modularly expand the base  300  to a desired size, with each base frame  310  of each solar module  120 ,  122 ,  124  configured to connect with an other base frame  310  of the other solar module  120 ,  122 ,  124 . The two or more panel frames of each solar module  120 ,  122 ,  124  may be configured to connect with respective panel frames of the other solar module  120 ,  122 ,  124  to form the solar panel support frame  201  that supports the planar solar array made up of the two or more solar panels of each solar module in the deployed configuration. 
     The actuator  250  tilts the deployed array  100  into the deployed orientation shown in  FIGS. 1A-1C . As shown, there may be two actuators  250 . In some embodiments, there may be one, three, four or more actuators  250 . The actuator  250  tilts the solar panel support frames  201 . The actuator  250  is linearly actuated. The linear actuator  250  affixes to the base frame  310  of the module  120  on one end and the solar panel support frame  201  on the other end. The linear actuator  250  may be hydraulically, electrically, or manually actuated. A telescoping arm  252  is extended and retracted by the actuator  250  to respectively tilt and un-tilt the array  100 . As shown in  FIG. 5B , the actuator  250  is connected to the base frame  310  via brackets  320 ,  322 . 
     The actuator  250  may be installed on one or more of the modules  120 . The actuator  250  may be omitted from one or more modules  120 , for example if other means of tilting are provided or if the other panel frames provide the rotation. As shown, only the outer modules  120  have the actuator  250  installed, while the middle module  120  rotates along with the outer fame panels due to the mechanical connection of the frame members. Another example is if the system  10  comprised only two solar modules  120 . One of these solar modules  120  would include the actuator  250  or other tilting mechanism and the second module  120  would not require a tilting mechanism if the solar panel support frame is rigidly affixed to the first solar module  120  which includes the actuator  250 . This modularity allows for a reduction in cost due to the use of fewer tilting mechanisms when multiple solar modules  120  are used in a single system  10 . The actuator  250  used to raise and lower one end of the solar panel support frame  201  helps orient the solar panels  110  at an optimum angle of incidence with respect to the sun to improve solar panel energy capture efficiency. The use of two hinges  220 ,  230  to connect the three panel frames  210 ,  212 ,  214  together reduces fabrication complexity. 
     The primary hinge  230  supports the folding solar panel support frame  201 . As shown in  FIGS. 4A-4C , the primary hinge  230  includes a tube  234  rotatably mounted to rigid arms  334  which are oriented downward (toward the base frame  310 ) to connect the hinge  230  to the solar module  120  between the solar panel support frames  212 ,  214 . The arms  334  include projections  336  extending away from the frame  330  with circular retainers  338  on the end thereof, as shown in  FIG. 6E . The tube  234  extends through openings of the retainers  338 . The projections  336  may have a length configured to rotate the panel frame  214  on top of the stowed panel frames  210 ,  212 . Brackets  232  having openings  211  and  215 , for respectively panel frames  210  and  214 , are rotatably attached to ends of the tube  234  and fixedly attached to the frame  212 ,  214 . The brackets  232  may be offset laterally from each other to avoid interference when the panels rotate. “Lateral” may refer to a direction parallel to the axis of rotation, which may be a central axis defined by the tube  234 . For example, as shown in  FIG. 5C , a first bracket  232 A of the plurality of brackets  232  may be attached to the first panel frame  210 , a second bracket  232 B of the plurality of brackets  232  may be attached to the second panel frame  212 , and the first and second brackets  232 A,  232 B may be laterally offset from each other in a direction parallel to an axis of rotation of the primary hinge  230 . Similarly, as shown in  FIGS. 4B, 4C, and 5D , a first bracket  232 A of the plurality of brackets  232  may be attached to the second panel frame  212 , a second bracket  232 B of the plurality of brackets  232  may be attached the third panel frame  214 , and the first and second brackets  232 A,  232 B may be offset from each other in a direction parallel to an axis of rotation of the primary hinge  230 . A pin  213  may be inserted through a diameter at the ends of the tube  234  to axially restrain the tube  234  in place. 
     This orientation allows the solar panel frame  201  to pivot around the hinge  230  and also tilt when the system  10  is deployed. The solar panel support frame  201  holds at least one, but typically multiple, solar panels  110 . The primary hinge  230  defines the axis around which the deployed solar panel support frame  201  tilts in order to place the panels at an angle to face the array at the sun based on the geographical latitude and time of year of the solar installation. In some embodiments, the tube  234  can be sized to correspond to the total length of the assembled modules. 
     The brackets  232  may connect to edge frame members  217 , as shown in  FIGS. 8B and 8C . There may be four frame members  217  that form an outer perimeter of the panel frame  212 . The frame members  217  may be metallic and extend along edges of the panel frame  212 . The frame members  217  may support a panel, protective sheet, etc. The frame members  217  may extend beyond the edge of an adjacent frame member, as shown in  FIGS. 8B and 8C . The brackets  232  may be positioned on inner ( FIG. 8B ) and outer ( FIG. 8C ) sides of the frame member  217 . The panel frames  210 ,  214  may include the frame members  217  and brackets  232  as described, as well. Adjacent panel frames, for example panel frames  210  and  212 , or panel frames  212  and  214 , may have opposing brackets  232  laterally offset to accommodate rotation of each bracket relative to each other. For example, the bracket  232  on the upper end of the frame member  217  of the panel frame  212  may be located on the outer side of the frame member  217 , while the opposing bracket  232  on the lower end of the frame member  217  of the panel frame  214  may be located on the inner side of the frame member  217  of the panel frame  214 , etc. 
     The panel frames may include central frame members  218 , for example as shown in  FIG. 7B  with respect to panel frame  214 . The frame member  218  may extend between edge frame members  217  along the length of the panel frame  214 . The frame member  218  may have similar features as the frame member  217  except for its location. The frame member  218  may extend beyond the ends of adjacent frame members  217 , as shown in  FIG. 7B . The protruding end of the frame member  218  may attach to the bracket  232 , which may be laterally offset from a bracket  232  on the opposing panel frame  212 . Similar arrangements of the central end edge frame members may be included for the panel frames  210  and  212 . 
     The one or more modules  120 ,  122 ,  124  may connect together to form a base of a desired size. This allows for customizing the amount of solar energy collected and corresponding amount of electrical power produced for a given application. The tube  234  may extend continuously through each primary hinge  230  of the plurality of solar modules. As shown, for example in  FIG. 2B , a single, long tube  234  extends through the primary hinges of the solar modules  120 ,  122 ,  124 . Similarly, an additional tube  234  extends through the secondary hinges of the solar modules  120 ,  122 ,  124 . Each solar module  120 ,  122 ,  124  may have a larger-diameter tube into and through which the tube  234  extends. 
     In some embodiments, there may be separate tubes  234  for each solar module. For example, the ends of the tubes  234  in the primary and secondary hinges  230 ,  220  may connect to adjacent end brackets  232 , such as the bracket  232 A shown in  FIGS. 4B and 4C . The pin  213  may secure adjacent tubes  234  together. The end of one of the tubes  234  may have a relatively larger width and receive therein the other tube  234  having a relatively smaller width, with the pin  213  rotatably securing the tubes  234  together. In some embodiments, a fitting may connect the ends off the tubes  234  together. 
     The individual solar modules  120 ,  122 ,  124  may be deployed and stowed independently of each other. For example, the base frames  310  may be connected together, but the panel frames of a first base frame  310  may not be connected to the panel frames of an adjacent base frame  310 . Thus the solar panels on each base frame  310  may be deployed and stowed independently of each other. 
     In some embodiments, adjacent panel frames may stow and deploy together. The panel frames may be connected along the length of the frame edges that are adjacent each other. For example, opposing edges of adjacent panel frames  210 ,  210  at the upper part of the array (e.g. shown in  FIG. 1A ), may attach together at one or more locations along the opposing edges. In some embodiments, the upper most opposing edges of edges of the frames  210  may connect together and lower most opposing edges of the frames  214  may connect together. The edges may connect similarly to the tubes  234  that connect at the hinges  220 ,  230 , as described. Brackets, fittings, or other suitable mechanical attachments may be used as well. 
     In some embodiments, the hinges  220 ,  230  may support the respective panel frames  210 ,  212 ,  214  in a planar orientation for a given solar module. For example, the module  120  may include supports at the hinges  220 ,  230  to support the panel frames  210 ,  212 ,  214  of that module  120  in a planar orientation. There may be hard stops preventing rotation of the panel frames  210 ,  212 ,  214  beyond a planar configuration. The modules  122 ,  124  may have similar features. The hinges  220 ,  230  may support the weight of the deployed panel frames such that attachments of the panel frames to each other may not be necessary except at the hinges  220 ,  230 , as described. 
     The base frames  310  may attach to each other to form the base  300 . As shown in  FIG. 1C , each base frame  310  may include frame members  311  and sidewalls  312 . The frame members  311  may frame the base frame  310  and support the sidewalls  312 . There may be multiple edge frame members  311  along the edges of the base frame  310 . There may be one or more central vertical frame members  311  supporting the sidewalls  312  between the edges. The sidewalls  312  may be located on the top, bottom, and/or sides of the base frame  310 . Some of the sidewall  312  are removed in the figures for clarity. The sidewalls  312  may completely enclose the base frame  310  to prevent access therein. In some embodiments, adjacent sidewalls  312  of adjacent base frames  310  may be removed to create a continuous inner volume of the base  300 . The base frame  310  may also include central longitudinal frame members, as shown in  FIG. 6A . 
     The base frames  310  may be welded or bolted together. The frame members  311  may be welded or bolted together. The base frames  310  may share frame members  311  to rigidly affix the modules  120 ,  122 ,  124  together. A single frame member  311  may extend across two or more base frames  310 . The panel frames may be connected at their rotational axis by way of the tube  234  which extends through all of upper or lower panel frame brackets  232 . The panel frames may be connected with the tube  234  extending inside an axis tube of each module. The upper and lower panel frames may only be connected at the hinges  230 ,  220 . Each of the three modules may open and close independently. 
     In some embodiments, the base frames  310  may be connected together by the tubes  234  extending between the respective hinges  220 ,  230 . The base frames  310  may be supported by the mobile platform and only connected by the tubes  234 . 
     The primary and secondary hinges  230 ,  220  include torsion springs  236 . There are four springs  236  per hinge, as shown. There may be one, two, three, five or more springs  236  per hinge. The springs  236  are used to offset the weight of the solar panel support frame  201  to provide assistance in opening and closing. The torsion springs  236  are affixed to panel frames  210 ,  212 ,  214  that are adjoined by way of the hinges  220 ,  230 . A capture device  238  connects to ends of the torsion spring  236 . The capture device  238  projects outward from opposing outside surfaces of opposing panel frames. As shown in  FIG. 7B , the capture device  238  includes a central catch  237  surrounded by two retainers  239 . The catch  237  receives therein and fixedly attaches to an end of the spring  236 . There are two capture devices  238  for each spring  236 . The capture device  238  may connect to edge frame members  217  of the panel frame  214 . There may be three capture devices  238  along an edge of the panel frame  214 . The panel frames  210 ,  212  may include similar arrangements of the capture devices  238  thereon. The torsion springs  236  installed between the panel frames  210 ,  212 ,  214  provide rotational biasing forces which counteracts the weight of gravity of the solar panels  110  and support frame  201 . This makes the system  10  easier and faster to deploy and stow. The torsion springs  236  can be arranged to store energy. The torsion springs  236  can be arranged to release energy as the panels are rotated. The force exerted by the torsion springs  236  can tend to lift the panels frames  210 ,  212 ,  214 . The torsion springs  236  can bias two adjacent panel frames into a deployed configuration. 
     All solar panel wiring is protected from external vandalism by routing it through the panel frames  201  and/or metal conduit. When the panel frames  210 ,  212 ,  214  are opened to the deployed position (solar panels all facing outward), they are locked into place by a locking mechanism  240  (shown in  FIGS. 4A-5D ) to avoid inadvertent closing or excessive vibration from weather. The locking mechanism  240  includes a pin that extends through an opening in the bracket  232  to prevent relative rotation between adjacent panel frames. The pin can extend through two or more openings, each opening fixed to a different panel frame. When the panel frames  210 ,  212 ,  214  are folded into the stowed position (solar panels not exposed outward) they are locked into place by mechanical means to prevent tampering, theft, and vandalism. As shown in  FIG. 2C , the panel frames may be locked in the stowed position using aligned lugs having openings therethrough. A first lug may extend from a first panel frame and a second lug may extend from a second panel frame, with openings in the lugs aligning and configured to receive a pin therethrough to lock the panel frames together. A padlock or other lock may secure to the pin to prevent removal of the pin. 
     The power electronics are secured inside the enclosed base  300  by way of locking doors  313 . (For clarity, some of the doors  313  and walls  312  of the base  300  are removed in  FIG. 1B .) The power electronics may include: solar charge controller(s)  350 , batteries  360 , and/or other components such as inverter(s), supporting wiring and electronics, etc. The enclosed base  300  can be formed from one, two or more base frames  310 . The base frames  310  can have locking door  313  on one or more exterior sides. The number and location of locking doors  313  on the base frame  310  can vary between various modules. For example, a central module, such as module  104  may have a single locking door  313 . The locking door  313  can be positioned on either side of the module  104 . The module  104  can have multiple locking doors. The outer modules  102  and  106  can have locking doors  313  on one, two or three sides. The outer modules  102  and  106  can have one or more locking doors  313 . 
     Each of the modules  102 ,  104 , and  106  can have one or more open sections. The open sections can be positioned adjacent when the enclosed base  300  is assembled. The assembled solar modules can form a partly (e.g., completely) closed volume. This volume can be accessible through the locking doors  313 . The locking doors  313  can be positioned around the perimeter of the closed volume. 
     The number of modules used can be varied during assembly. The inner modules can have a first configuration. For example the inner modules may have one locking door  313 . The outer modules can have a second configuration. For example, the outer modules could have one or more (e.g., two) locking doors  313  and an actuator  250 . 
     Each solar module, such as the depicted solar modules  102 ,  104 , and  106  is configured to connect with one or more other solar modules. Assembling the modules can include welding, riveting, mechanical fasteners and other means of fastening. The base frames  310  of the solar modules can be affixed to the adjacent base frame(s)  310  of other modules. Solar panel support frames  201  can be affixed to adjacent panels. 
     As shown in  FIG. 6A , the base frame  310  may include central longitudinal frame members  311 B. The base frame  310  may be framed by the members  311 ,  311 A, and  311 B. The members  311 ,  311 A, and  311 B may be welded together or attached together using fittings or other attachments. The base frame  310  is shown without any sidewalls  312  for clarity. Adjacent members  311  of adjacent base frames  310  may connect together to form the base  300 . Various fittings, brackets, or other suitable mechanical attachments may be used to connect adjacent base frames  310 . The members  311 A and/or  311 B of adjacent base frames  310  may also attach to each other. 
     A protective sheet  117  of material (metal in this embodiment) is affixed to the rear  121  of the solar panel support frame  201  by way of tamper-resistant hardware  113 , shown in  FIG. 14B . This protective sheet  117  is installed to protect the back side of the solar panels  110 . The purpose of this sheet  117  is to make access to the solar panel wiring and solar panel mounting hardware difficult. This will reduce risk of theft and vandalism of the panels and wiring. The sheet  117  may be installed using numerous tamper-resistant hardware  113  as shown in  FIG. 14A . The hardware  113  may include non-standard screws or bolts in an attempt to deter access. The hardware  113  may be bolts with 5-sided heads, or a standard Torx screw head made in a tamper-resistant form with a pin in the center. The sheet  117  can be supported by the solar panel support frame  201 , such as by the edge and central panel frame members. Electrical wiring, for example wiring connecting the solar panel  110  to a charge controller and routed between the protective sheets  117  and the respective panel frames  201 , can prevent access to the wiring. The power inverter, or inverter, may be a power electronic device or circuitry that changes direct current (DC) to alternating current (AC). The inverter may be used to convert battery power into alternating current. A charge controller may be included having instructions stored on a non-transitory computer readable medium that, when executed by a processor, controls the solar power collection process such as charging of the batteries. 
     As shown in  FIG. 13C , the sheet  121  may be connected to the panel frame  210 , such as to the frame member  217 , via the clip  118 . The clip  118  may be L-shaped and attach the sheet  121  to the frame member  217 . A fastener  119  may be used to secure the clip  119  to the sheet  121 . The clip  119  may secure to the sheet  121  and/or to the frame member  217  via mechanical attachment, adhesive, friction fit, or other suitable means. Multiple such clips  119  may be used along the outer edges of the sheet  121 . Such arrangements may be used for the panel frames  212 ,  214  as well. 
     Some uniquely desirable features of the system  10  include portability, security and robust design. A multitude of solar panels are folded into a thin, flat space. There are no exposed wires that can be easily pulled or cut with a knife. The solar panels are enclosed in the hard solar panel frame  201  and protected from exposure to weather, vandalism and theft during transportation and storage when not deployed. When the system is deployed, the protective sheeting  117  is used to hinder access and reduce risk of theft of the solar panels. The system  10  may be used by towing the system to a remote site, lifting the wheels off the ground to prevent theft, tilting the solar array(s) using the linear actuator(s), deploying the lower solar panel(s) using the primary hinge(s), deploying the upper solar panel(s) using the secondary hinge(s), turning on the power electronics, collecting solar energy, converting and storing the energy in batteries, and/or providing electrical power to one or more electrical devices. The steps may be carried out in a variety of orders, and some steps may be omitted. For example, the solar panels may be unfolded first, and then the planar array tilted. Or the upper solar panels may be deployed prior to the lower panels, etc. 
     Thus, any method sequences are illustrative only. A person of skill in the art will understand that the steps, decisions, and processes embodied in the flowcharts described herein may be performed in any suitable order other than that described herein. Thus, the particular methods and descriptions are not intended to limit the associated processes to being performed in the specific order described. 
     While the above detailed description has shown, described, and pointed out novel features of the invention as applied to various embodiments, it will be understood that various omissions, substitutions, and changes in the form and details of the device or process illustrated may be made by those skilled in the art without departing from the spirit of the invention. As will be recognized, the present invention may be embodied within a form that does not provide all of the features and benefits set forth herein, as some features may be used or practiced separately from others. The scope of the invention is indicated by the appended claims rather than by the foregoing description. All changes which come within the meaning and range of equivalency of the claims are to be embraced within their scope. 
     The foregoing description details certain embodiments of the systems, devices, and methods disclosed herein. It will be appreciated, however, that no matter how detailed the foregoing appears in text, the systems, devices, and methods may be practiced in many ways. As is also stated above, it should be noted that the use of particular terminology when describing certain features or aspects of the invention should not be taken to imply that the terminology is being re-defined herein to be restricted to including any specific characteristics of the features or aspects of the technology with which that terminology is associated. 
     It will be appreciated by those skilled in the art that various modifications and changes may be made without departing from the scope of the described technology. Such modifications and changes are intended to fall within the scope of the embodiments. It will also be appreciated by those of skill in the art that parts included in one embodiment are interchangeable with other embodiments; one or more parts from a depicted embodiment may be included with other depicted embodiments in any combination. For example, any of the various components described herein and/or depicted in the Figures may be combined, interchanged or excluded from other embodiments. 
     With respect to the use of substantially any plural and/or singular terms herein, those having skill in the art may translate from the plural to the singular and/or from the singular to the plural as is appropriate to the context and/or application. The various singular/plural permutations may be expressly set forth herein for sake of clarity. 
     It will be understood by those within the art that, in general, terms used herein are generally intended as “open” terms (e.g., the term “including” should be interpreted as “including but not limited to,” the term “having” should be interpreted as “having at least,” the term “includes” should be interpreted as “includes but is not limited to,” etc.). It will be further understood by those within the art that if a specific number of an introduced claim recitation is intended, such an intent will be explicitly recited in the claim, and in the absence of such recitation no such intent is present. For example, as an aid to understanding, the following appended claims may contain usage of the introductory phrases “at least one” and “one or more” to introduce claim recitations. However, the use of such phrases should not be construed to imply that the introduction of a claim recitation by the indefinite articles “a” or “an” limits any particular claim containing such introduced claim recitation to embodiments containing only one such recitation, even when the same claim includes the introductory phrases “one or more” or “at least one” and indefinite articles such as “a” or “an” (e.g., “a” and/or “an” should typically be interpreted to mean “at least one” or “one or more”); the same holds true for the use of definite articles used to introduce claim recitations. In addition, even if a specific number of an introduced claim recitation is explicitly recited, those skilled in the art will recognize that such recitation should typically be interpreted to mean at least the recited number (e.g., the bare recitation of “two recitations,” without other modifiers, typically means at least two recitations, or two or more recitations). 
     Furthermore, in those instances where a convention analogous to “at least one of A, B, and C, etc.” is used, in general such a construction is intended in the sense one having skill in the art would understand the convention (e.g., “a system having at least one of A, B, and C” would include but not be limited to systems that have A alone, B alone, C alone, A and B together, A and C together, B and C together, and/or A, B, and C together, etc.). In those instances where a convention analogous to “at least one of A, B, or C, etc.” is used, in general such a construction is intended in the sense one having skill in the art would understand the convention (e.g., “a system having at least one of A, B, or C” would include but not be limited to systems that have A alone, B alone, C alone, A and B together, A and C together, B and C together, and/or A, B, and C together, etc.). It will be further understood by those within the art that virtually any disjunctive word and/or phrase presenting two or more alternative terms, whether in the description, claims, or drawings, should be understood to contemplate the possibilities of including one of the terms, either of the terms, or both terms. For example, the phrase “A or B” will be understood to include the possibilities of “A” or “B” or “A and B.” 
     Any and all references cited herein are incorporated herein by reference in their entirety. To the extent publications and patents or patent applications incorporated by reference contradict the disclosure contained in the specification, the specification is intended to supersede and/or take precedence over any such contradictory material. 
     The term “comprising” as used herein is synonymous with “including,” “containing,” or “characterized by,” and is inclusive or open-ended and does not exclude additional, unrecited elements or method steps. 
     All numbers expressing quantities of ingredients, reaction conditions, and so forth used in the specification and claims are to be understood as being modified in all instances by the term “about.” Accordingly, unless indicated to the contrary, the numerical parameters set forth in the specification and attached claims are approximations that may vary depending upon the desired properties sought to be obtained by the present invention. At the very least, and not as an attempt to limit the application of the doctrine of equivalents to the scope of the claims, each numerical parameter should be construed in light of the number of significant digits and ordinary rounding approaches. For example, terms such as about, approximately, substantially, and the like may represent a percentage relative deviation, in various embodiments, of ±1%, ±5%, ±10%, or ±20%. 
     The above description discloses several methods and materials of embodiments of the present invention. Embodiments of this invention are amenable to modifications in the methods and materials, as well as alterations in the fabrication methods and equipment. Such modifications will become apparent to those skilled in the art from a consideration of this disclosure or practice of the invention disclosed herein. Consequently, it is not intended that this invention be limited to the specific embodiments disclosed herein, but that it cover all modifications and alternatives coming within the true scope and spirit of the invention as embodied in the attached claims.