Energy Innovations has a clear mission to deliver cost effective, grid-competitive solar electric power. Their immediate goal is to reduce the payback time for a solar system so that it becomes a sensible and logical investment to electricity users around the world, whether they are grid-connected or not.
Energy Innovations strategy is to exceed the cost-effectiveness of existing photovoltaic-based systems through innovation in both the collection of solar energy and the generation of electric power from it. To execute their strategy, Energy Innovations has developed a compact tracking system to concentrate solar energy and a customized photovoltaic cell designed to work efficiently under concentrated sunlight. They have created their first product, the Sunflower, in the lab and will be performing extensive beta testing to ensure long life, reliability and ease of installation.
The Sunflower is the first high concentrated PV system designed for commercial rooftop and adjacent ground-mounted application. By combining the world’s most efficient solar cells with proprietary lenses, self-powered tracking, and a unique two-axis tracking carousel, the Sunflower delivers more energy at less cost than traditional PV systems.
Challenge
The Sunflower has many key features that help it stand apart. It possesses 12 solar engines, altitude tracking, azimuth tracking, self powered capabilities, closed-loop tracking, and integrated mounting system.
Energy Innovations needed parts that would help complete the Sunflower project by having the system always pointed at the sun. That meant that sensors had to have movement and also the ability to be placed anywhere and have it work. The original sensor housing design for the Sunflower worked, but it was just too difficult to assemble.
“We redesigned the parts, but needed them in hand fast. We needed something to happen in a short time and in a large quantity,” said Jeremy Pitts.
Solution
After searching the internet, Jeremy found Quickparts delivering 3D printed and traditionally produced parts. Submitting his files online was easy and within minutes an instant price competitive quote was created.
“As soon as I quoted I was contacted by a Sales Manager,” said Jeremy. “We worked together to ensure that the designs would produce successful parts.”
Faced with an aggressive schedule to have product to market, dedicated Quickparts team members worked to help Energy Innovations create the best design for what they needed. The team’s engineers helped Energy Innovations understand certain design limitations and work through changes together.
Benefits
By working with Quickparts, Energy Innovations received parts in hand regardless of the numerous design iterations and short schedule.
“We received phenomenal parts in such a short time! They were here when I needed them and I knew they would be thanks to that team,” said Jeremy. “The customer service is undeniably dependable; even with my West coast hours there was always someone there to answer my questions.”
