The Smartflower POP is an integrated solar energy system designed for ease of use and efficient energy generation. It is a self-contained unit that includes solar panels, a tracking system, and all necessary electrical components, making it a "plug-and-play" solution for residential and commercial users.
Function Description:
The primary function of the Smartflower POP is to generate electricity from solar energy. Unlike traditional rooftop solar panels, the Smartflower POP is a ground-mounted system that automatically tracks the sun's movement throughout the day. This dual-axis tracking capability allows the solar panels to maintain an optimal angle to the sun, maximizing energy yield. The system is designed to "flower" open in the morning, track the sun, and then fold itself back into a compact, protected position in the evening or during adverse weather conditions. This automatic retraction protects the panels from strong winds and other environmental factors, enhancing durability and longevity. The generated electricity can be used directly, stored, or fed into the grid, depending on the specific setup and local regulations.
Important Technical Specifications:
While a detailed technical datasheet is referenced as a separate document, the handbook provides some key insights into the system's requirements and capabilities.
- Cable Length for Electrical Connections: For home connection, a cable cross-section of 2.5 mm² (AWG 14) is required. For lengths between 15 m and 30 m, a 3 x 2.5 mm² cable is needed. For lengths exceeding 30 m, local standards must be followed. The home connection cable must be secured with a C16 line protection.
- Total Product Height (including packaging material): 2.65 m. This dimension is crucial for transportation and unloading.
- Loading Height from Side: Minimum 2680 mm for truck loading.
- Wind Speed for SIP01: The system can adjust its operation based on wind speed, with a setting for "wind speed for SIP01 in m/s" available in the commissioning settings.
- GPS Coordinates: The system requires accurate GPS coordinates for optimal sun tracking. The handbook emphasizes that the correct input of longitude and latitude is absolutely essential for correct sun tracking.
- Offset to Southpole: The system allows for an offset of +/- 30 degrees from the south alignment, which can be adjusted in the commissioning settings.
- Language Setting: The system supports language changes, with "EN" (English) being an option.
- Night Position: The system can be programmed to stay in a specific position during the night (tracking/SIP01/SIP02/season).
- Season Mode: If season mode is selected, a date frame can be defined for when the system moves into SIP02 to avoid problems with heavy snow.
- Date and Time: The system requires date and time settings, which should always be in UTC time, not local time.
Usage Features:
The Smartflower POP is designed for user-friendliness with several automated and configurable features:
- Automatic Sun Tracking: The system automatically tracks the sun on two axes, ensuring maximum energy capture throughout the day.
- Automatic Cleaning Position: The system can be set to a cleaning position, which is likely for self-cleaning or manual maintenance.
- Automatic Retraction: The system automatically folds into a protected position during strong winds or at night, safeguarding the panels.
- User-Friendly Interface: The commissioning section details a control panel with "back," "next," "confirm," and numerical keys for navigation and input.
- Service Mode: A "service mode" is accessible via a password (PWD: 73574911) for advanced settings and diagnostics.
- Adjustable Settings: Users can configure various settings, including latitude, longitude, offset to southpole, wind speed thresholds, language, night position, and season mode.
Maintenance Features:
Maintenance aspects are integrated into the system's design and operational procedures:
- Pre-checks: Before installation, pre-checks include ensuring a 5m clearance around the product, checking for anticipated collisions, and verifying exact positions of cable tubes for AC connection and wind sensor cabling.
- Transport Damage Checks: Upon delivery, it's crucial to check for transport damages (scratches and bumps on the dome, sidecovers, solar panels, frontglass, and siderails).
- Acceptance Log: The commissioning process includes checks as per an acceptance log, which is the basis for the guarantee.
- Regular Checks: The "Final Handover" section outlines various checks that are part of the handover process, including external visual check, mounting of wind guard, electrical connection to mains, system control and configuration, inverter configuration, and full system test.
- Documentation: The technical handbook emphasizes the importance of the "Certificate of Acceptance / smartflower" document, which is to be filled out together with the customer and authorized service personnel. This document covers aspects like correct delivery, proper installation, handover of the product, and user training.
- Service Technician Involvement: The installation and commissioning processes require certified personnel from Smartflower Energy Technology GmbH or authorized service personnel to ensure proper setup and to maintain the guarantee.
- Accessory Parts: The handbook details how to access accessory parts by removing the rear cover dome, which involves opening/removing screws and lifting the dome. This suggests that certain components are designed to be accessible for maintenance or replacement.
- Reusable Parts: The transportation guide and anti-collision spacers are identified as reusable parts, indicating a design consideration for sustainability and cost-effectiveness in repeated installations or relocations.