PV Module Mounting and Support Assembly and Installation

Abstract

In some examples a PV module mounting and support assembly includes a base mountable to the deck, a deck-penetrating fastener for securing the base to the deck, and PV module mounting hardware. The PV module mounting hardware is used to secure an edge of a PV module on a PV module-support surface of the base with the edge of the PV module spaced apart from the deck. Flashing may be used between the lower surface and the deck. In some examples an internal PV mounting and support assembly is used to engage an internal lip of the PV module frame.

Description

CROSS-REFERENCE TO OTHER APPLICATIONS [0001] This application claims the benefit of provisional patent application No. 60 / 821,869 filed 9 Aug. 2006, Attorney Docket number PWRL 1045-1. This application is also a continuation in part of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 11 / 681,972 filed 5 Mar. 2007, Attorney Docket number PWRL 1044-2, which application claims the benefit of provisional patent application No. 60 / 780,819 filed on 9 Mar. 2006, attorney docket number PWRL 1044-1 and provisional patent application No. 60 / 821,869 filed on 9 Aug. 2006, attorney docket number PWRL 1045-1, the disclosures of which are incorporated by reference. This application is related to U.S. patent application Ser. No. ______ filed on the same day as this application, entitled PV Module Mounting Method and Mounting Assembly, attorney docket PWRL 1045-3.STATE SPONSORED RESEARCH OR DEVELOPMENT [0002] This invention was made with State of California support under California Commission Agreement Number 500-04...

AI Technical Summary

Benefits of technology

The patent describes a mounting system for solar modules on a deck or other support structure. The system includes a base, a deck-penetrating fastener, and PV module mounting hardware. The base is mountable to the deck and has a PV module-support surface. The PV module mounting hardware is securable to the base and includes a retaining element that captures the internal lip of the module to secure it to the deck. The system allows for easy installation of PV modules without the need for additional hold down or inspection structures, reduces part count and installation time, and improves aesthetics. The system also allows for close proximity of adjacent PV modules and reduces wind loading on the modules.

Problems solved by technology

Reasons for using the vertical stanchions and a lateral rails approach include: PV modules are not typically designed in convenient widths relative to joist spacing, not all PV modules have geometries amenable to direct-deck mounting, and the racks are designed to accommodate generally any PV module.

Because of the size of these larger holes and the configuration of the module, it is often difficult to tell if adequate waterproofing has been achieved.

If blocking is used, the process of installing blocking involves extensive work in the attic which adds significantly to installation time.

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