Face-to-Face Lay-down Anti- degradation Protection for PV Tracker
PV trackers, i.e. solar modules following the path of the sun, are among the most effective means of significantly increasing photovoltaic (PV) power generation and annual energy yield without having to install additional module area. The present feasibility study investigates a potentially disruptive technology approach called “Face-to-Face Lay-down Anti-degradation Protection Tracker” (FLAPTrack). FLAPTrack is a cost-effective and lightweight PV tracker that offers up to 40 % higher energy yield than conventional (fixed-tilt) PV systems, especially in high latitude / high albedo environments and during the winter months. This enables better coverage of energy demand during morning and night hours, which brings essential benefits for both private households and energy suppliers as it leads to better load balancing and subsequently more efficient use of inverters and energy storage systems. The core innovation of FLAPTrack lies in its actuator principle, which is based on a patented folding and tracking mechanism with a multifunctional actuator. This enables a folded stow position close to the ground during storms or hail, protecting the PV modules from adverse weather conditions. Nevertheless, the number of moving parts remains minimal, resulting in a robust, low-maintenance and cost-effective design that contributes to the resilience of the energy infrastructure. The ability to fold up at night or in bad weather reduces soiling of the modules and allows effective snow shedding, which is particularly important at higher altitudes. In addition, the relative movement of the panel halves allows automatic PV module cleaning. The theoretical advantages of FLAPTrack have already been discussed in publications and a patent of the applicant. The overall aim of the project is to investigate the functionality, cost-effectiveness and reliability of the FLAPTrack system in the course of this feasibility study. These three aspects are interrelated, as the specific functions/features of FLAPTrack enable certain use-cases and markets, which in turn determine the economic viability of the system. The reliability of the technology is a key characteristic in the energy generation sector and is essential for potential follow-up projects and ultimately an actual market launch. The methods used in the feasibility study were selected in such a way that different levels of detail are applied depending on the assembly groups and degree of novelty of the FLAPTracker. This means that those aspects that can be clarified theoretically (i.e. analytically or numerically) or even through expert interviews are also treated in this way for reasons of efficiency. However, some of the core innovations require - in agreement with the guidelines of the FFG feasibility studies - the creation and characterization of functional samples on a laboratory scale. The proof of function of key innovations through prototyping and lab measurement characterization is of decisive importance in order to enable the step from a theoretical patent to a (consortium-) demonstration project.
