Tech & Sci
17:09, 06-Aug-2017
'Smartflower' now in bloom in the Philippines
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A transportable solar energy system, Smartflower, is now available in the Philippines.
The Smartflower looks like a piece of modern art, but it's an award winning solar power design. Inspired by the sunflower, 59 square meters, it is equipped with 12 petals of solar panels attached to a dual-axis tracker.
This allows the system to take advantage of maximum sun exposure by tracking light rays from sunrise to sunset. This feature clearly differentiates the Smartflower from rooftop panels which absorb light from a fixed angle. The company behind the innovation claims that its units can produce 40 percent more power, compared to traditional rooftop solar systems.
Each unit is programmed to be able to work autonomously. The system will open at the first ray of light and expands its petals for the whole day. It will clean itself by the soft bristles underneath each petal when it starts shutting down by sunset. It is even designed to automatically close itself when it meets high wind speed to avoid damage to the petals.
The Smartflower generates around 3,400 to 6,200 kwh per year depending on the region. If a client has a higher energy requirements, the Smartflower also offers customized units with upgraded electricity production.
Source: AP