Alignment support

Description

1 / 26 ALIGNMENT SUPPORT CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED REQUESTS

[0001] This patent application claims the benefit and priority of U.S. Provisional Application No. 63 / 495,433, filed April 11, 2023, entitled “ALIGNMENT BRACKET”, which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety. FIELD OF THE INVENTION

[0002] The embodiments discussed in this disclosure relate to solar tracking systems and, more particularly, to an alignment support for use in a solar tracking system. BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

[0003] The construction of large solar installations can be laborious and time-consuming. In a typical large-scale installation, several connection points may be necessary to attach solar panels to support columns, either directly or via a torque tube in solar tracking systems. For example, in systems using solar tracking, the installation of a conventional torque tube interface may require the installer to correctly align a mounting bracket and the torque tube interface with a specific support column in a particular position. Then, one or more fasteners must be installed to attach, firstly, the mounting bracket to the column. Petition 870250089917, dated 02 / 10 / 2025, pp. 109 / 157 2 / 26 support and subsequently the torque tube interface to the mounting bracket. Simultaneously, the installer must physically maintain proper alignment between the components. This process is often complex and time-consuming, and can be especially challenging for a single installer. Loose fasteners, the mounting bracket, or other fastening elements, as well as difficulty maintaining correct component alignment during installation, are recurring problems that increase the complexity of assembling solar tracking systems.

[0004] One solution involves using multiple installers working together to physically align and couple the mounting bracket and torque tube interface to the support columns. For example, a first installer might align and hold the mounting bracket relative to the support column, while a second installer installs one or more fasteners to make the connection. Alternatively, a first installer might align and hold the torque tube interface relative to the support column and / or the mounting bracket, while a second installer installs the corresponding fasteners. However, increasing the number of installers is not ideal, either from a cost or operational efficiency standpoint.

[0005] In addition, in a large-scale solar installation, the distribution process may involve the allocation of several mounting brackets throughout the installation area, Petition 870250089917, dated 02 / 10 / 2025, pp. 110 / 157 3 / 26 positioning individual supports in the ground, close to their respective support columns. Subsequently, installers remove the supports from the ground to attach them to the corresponding columns. This distribution process can be physically exhausting for installers and tends to increase the total installation time. Consequently, there is a need for an improved system for installing solar components on support columns.

[0006] The subject matter claimed in this disclosure is not limited to embodiments that solve any disadvantages or that operate only in environments such as those described above. Instead, this context is provided only to illustrate an exemplary technological area where some embodiments described in this disclosure may be practiced. BRIEF SUMMARY

[0007] This summary is provided to introduce a selection of concepts in a simplified form that are described in more detail below in the Detailed Description. This summary is not intended to identify key or essential features of the claimed subject matter, nor to be used to limit the scope of the claimed subject matter.

[0008] The exemplary embodiments of this disclosure address some of the challenges related to the efficient attachment of the mounting bracket, torque tube interface, and / or other solar components to a support column. Specifically, the disclosed embodiments present Petition 870250089917, dated 02 / 10 / 2025, p. 111 / 157 4 / 26 an alignment bracket that incorporates fastening elements designed to facilitate connection to a support column or similar structure.

[0009] In the described embodiments, the fastening element includes an engagement surface configured to interact with a part of the support column, so as to maintain the position and / or alignment of the alignment bracket in relation to the column. In this way, the alignment bracket remains positioned and / or aligned without the installer (or an assistant) needing to hold it manually during the installation of the fasteners. Additionally or alternatively, the fastening element allows multiple alignment brackets to be distributed along the solar installation, hanging them directly on the corresponding support columns, instead of leaving them on the ground. This simplifies the installation process and can reduce the amount of labor required. Furthermore, it eliminates the step of retrieving the brackets from the ground before attaching them to the columns, optimizing workflow.Consequently, alignment support contributes to increased installation efficiency, reduced labor demand, and lower costs associated with the process.

[0010] The objective and advantages of the modalities will be realized and achieved by the elements, characteristics and combinations specifically indicated in the claims. Both the previous summary and the detailed description below are illustrative and explanatory and are not restrictive. Petition 870250089917, dated 02 / 10 / 2025, p. 112 / 157 5 / 26 BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0011] Examples of the modalities will be described and explained with specificity and additional details through the attached drawings in which:

[0012] Figure 1 illustrates a block diagram of an exemplary solar tracking system that includes an exemplary embodiment of a torque tube interface and an alignment support configuration;

[0013] Figure 2A illustrates a side view of the exemplary torque tube interface of figure 1, including the exemplary alignment support in an exemplary installation state;

[0014] Figure 2B illustrates a front view of the exemplary torque tube interface, including the exemplary alignment support in the exemplary installation state;

[0015] Figure 2C illustrates a side view of the exemplary torque tube interface, including the exemplary alignment support in an exemplary installed state;

[0016] Figures 3A-3D illustrate a perspective view, a bottom view, a top view and a side view, respectively, of an exemplary section that corresponds to sections of the alignment support of figure 1; Petition 870250089917, dated 02 / 10 / 2025, p. 113 / 157 6 / 26

[0017] Figures 4A and 4B illustrate perspective views of other exemplary sections of the alignment supports; and

[0018] Figures 5A and 5B illustrate a perspective view and an exploded view, respectively, of an exemplary section of an alignment support that includes an independent fastening element and an independent body;

[0019] Everything in accordance with at least one modality described in this disclosure. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0020] The embodiments of the present invention will be explained with reference to the accompanying figures. It should be understood that the figures are diagrammatic and schematic representations of such exemplary embodiments, and are not limiting, nor necessarily drawn to scale. In the figures, features with similar numbers indicate similar structure and function, unless otherwise described.

[0021] With reference to Figure 1, an example of a system environment in which aspects of the present disclosure can be applied is presented. In this example, an embodiment of a solar tracking system 100 is illustrated, which includes a solar component connected to a support column 106. The solar component shown comprises a torque tube interface, generically indicated as 109, which operationally connects a torque tube 102 to the support column 106 by means of two alignment supports 108. Although the embodiments of the alignment supports 108 are described in relation to the attachment of the Petition 870250089917, dated 02 / 10 / 2025, pp. 114 / 157 7 / 26 torque tube interface 109, it is important to note that variations of these supports can be used to facilitate the attachment of other solar components to the support columns. For example, alignment supports 108 can be used to attach a drive system, a rotation lock, a damping device, a sensor, an electronic device, a structural arm, a structural bearing, a structural bushing, or some combination of these elements to the support column 106.

[0022] In the illustrated example, the torque tube interface 109 comprises a bearing assembly 111, which includes a bearing housing 104 responsible for housing a rotary bearing 118. This rotary bearing engages the torque tube 102 in order to allow its rotation, facilitating the tracking of the sun's position by means of a photovoltaic panel 110. In this way, the photovoltaic panel 110 can be oriented, in general, towards the sun or perpendicular to the east-west path of solar irradiation. The alignment supports 108 can be used to fix the bearing housing 104 to the support column 106, enabling the connection of the torque tube 102 to the column by means of the bearing assembly 111.Although the modalities of the solar tracking system 100 are described focusing on the alignment supports 108 that couple the torque tube interface 109 to the support column 106, with the aim of facilitating solar tracking by the photovoltaic panel 110, it is important to note that different. Petition 870250089917, dated 02 / 10 / 2025, pp. 115 / 157 8 / 26 structural configurations can be coupled to the support column 106 by means of the alignment supports 108, also for the purpose of orienting the photovoltaic panel. For example, one or more alignment supports can couple a set of arms that includes a structural arm intended to support a structural bearing or a structural bushing, which are rotationally coupled to a mounting rail connected to the photovoltaic panel 110. The structural bearing or the structural bushing, in turn, can be rotationally coupled to the mounting rail, allowing the photovoltaic panel 110 to move to track the sun's position.

[0023] The exemplary alignment supports 108 include surfaces that interface with both the bearing housing 104 and the support column 106. For example, each alignment support 108 has a first surface (indicated as 227 in Figures 2A-2C, 3A, 3C and 3D) that interfaces with the bearing housing 104. In addition, each alignment support 108 includes a second surface (indicated as 230 in Figures 2A, 2C and 3A-3D) that interfaces with the surfaces 128 of the support column 106. These surfaces 227 and 230 of the alignment supports 108 can interact with the bearing housing 104 or with the surfaces 128 of the support column 106, with the aim of positioning the alignment supports 108 relative to the support column 106, or of position the bearing housing 104 in relation to the supports of Petition 870250089917, dated 02 / 10 / 2025, pp. 116 / 157 9 / 26 alignment 108 and to support column 106 during the installation process.

[0024] The alignment supports 108 and the support column 106 may include openings (as indicated in 241 and 234 in Figures 2B and 3A), configured to receive fasteners (as indicated in 232 in Figure 2C), for the purpose of coupling the alignment supports 108 to the support column 106. Additionally, the alignment supports 108 and the bearing housing 104 may include openings 136, also configured to receive fasteners (as indicated in 281 in Figure 2C), allowing the bearing housing 104 to be attached to the alignment supports 108. In this way, the alignment supports 108 enable the connection of the torque tube 102, through the interface of the torque tube 109, to the support column 106.

[0025] With reference to Figures 1 and 2A-2C, it is observed that, in one example, each alignment support 108 includes a fastening element 122. Although, in the example shown, each alignment support 108 has only a single fastening element 122, in other embodiments the alignment supports 108 may include a plurality of fastening elements.

[0026] In the illustrated example, the fasteners 122 are configured to engage the support column 106, making physical contact with the ends 224 of the column, so that the alignment supports 108 are suspended and supported by the support column 106 itself. Thus, the fasteners 122 hold the alignment supports 108 Petition 870250089917, dated 02 / 10 / 2025, pp. 117 / 157 10 / 26 positioned in relation to the support column 106. These fastening elements 122 can facilitate the alignment of the alignment supports 108 in relation to the support column 106, eliminating the need for an installer, or an assistant, to physically hold the supports during the installation of any type of fastener intended for fixing the alignment supports 108 to the support column 106 and / or for fixing solar components to the support column 106.

[0027] In the illustrated embodiment, the fasteners 122 are shown as tabs. However, it should be noted that the fasteners 122 may include other physical configurations, such as hook tabs or any other configuration or shape suitable for engaging with the support column 106. Furthermore, in the illustrated embodiment, the fasteners 122 are shown connected to the bodies 221 of the alignment support 108. However, it should be noted that the fasteners 122 may be separate components, permanently or temporarily coupled to the bodies 221.

[0028] As can be seen in Figures 2A and 2B, each alignment bracket 108 includes the fastening element 122 which fits into the ends 224 of the support column 106 to facilitate the positioning of the alignment brackets 108 in relation to the support column 106, thus eliminating the need for the installer to hold the alignment brackets 108 to facilitate the positioning of the alignment brackets 108 during the installation of the fasteners 232. Petition 870250089917, dated 02 / 10 / 2025, pp. 118 / 157 11 / 26

[0029] In some embodiments, as illustrated in Figures 2A and 2B, the exemplified installation state may include the alignment supports 108 physically fitted into the ends 224. In these and other embodiments, as illustrated in Figure 2C, the installed state may have parts of the alignment supports 108, such as the fastening elements 122, positioned at distances 226a-b from the ends 224. In the illustrated embodiment, the fastening elements 122 are shown physically fitted into the ends 224. However, it should be noted that the fastening elements 122 may be physically fitted into any part of the support column 106, including openings (such as those indicated in 241 in Figure 2B), sides of the support column 106, or elements extending outward from the surfaces 128 of the support column 106.

[0030] In the installed state, the fasteners 122 facilitate the positioning and / or alignment of the alignment supports 108 in relation to the surfaces 128 of the support column 106. For example, as illustrated in Figure 2A, the fasteners 122 can assist in positioning and / or aligning the alignment supports 108 so that the second surfaces 230 of the bodies 221 physically interact with the surfaces 128 of the support column 106. In addition, the bodies 221 may include one or more openings 234 (examples illustrated in Figure 2B), while the surfaces 128 of the support column 106 may contain corresponding openings 241. Petition 870250089917, dated 02 / 10 / 2025, pp. 119 / 157 12 / 26 (also illustrated in Figure 2B). In the installed state, the fastening elements 122 can facilitate the positioning and / or alignment of sections 108a-b of the alignment supports 108 in relation to the surfaces 128 of the support column 106, so that the openings 234 of the bodies 221 are aligned with the corresponding openings 241 of the support column 106. The openings 234 of the bodies 221 are described in more detail in Figures 3A—3D.

[0031] As shown in Figure 2A, the fasteners 122 can engage the ends 224 of the support column 106, so that the alignment supports 108 hang and are supported by the support column 106. Furthermore, in the installed state, the fasteners 122 can prevent the alignment support 108 from moving in the direction of gravity, represented by arrow 271 (for example, during the installation of the alignment supports 108). For example, as illustrated in Figure 2A, the fasteners 122 are engaged the ends 224 of the support column 106 and prevent the alignment supports 108 from moving in the direction of gravity 271.

[0032] The openings 234 of the bodies 221 and the openings 241 of the support column 106 can be configured to receive the fasteners 232. During installation, the fasteners 232 can operationally interact with the nuts 251 or other retaining devices (illustrated in Figure 2C) to prevent the fasteners 232 from falling relative to the supports. Petition 870250089917, dated 02 / 10 / 2025, pp. 120 / 157 13 / 26 alignment 108 and to the support column 106, still allowing some movement in the vertical direction, as defined by the fasteners 232 in the openings 234 of the bodies 221. The fasteners 232 can also interact operationally with the nuts 251 or other retaining devices to generally facilitate the alignment of the alignment supports 108 in relation to the surfaces 128 of the support column 106.

[0033] The alignment supports 108 may include first surfaces 227 which include the openings 136, and the mounting flanges 123 may include corresponding openings 191 (examples of these are shown in Figure 1). During installation, the mounting flanges 123 may be aligned with respect to the first surfaces 227 of the alignment supports 108, so that the openings 136 of the first surfaces 227 are positioned close to the openings 191 of the mounting flanges 123. The openings 136 of the first surfaces 227 are described in more detail below in relation to Figures 3A-3D. Although described as openings, it should be noted that an alternative feature may be used, such as a pin, a screw, a groove or a fastener formed in the alignment supports 108 that interfaces with the bearing housing 104.

[0034] The openings 136 of the first surfaces 227 and the corresponding openings 191 of the mounting flanges 123 can be configured to receive the fasteners 281. During installation, the fasteners 281 can interact operationally. Petition 870250089917, dated 02 / 10 / 2025, pp. 121 / 157 14 / 26 with nuts or other retaining devices (not shown) to prevent the fasteners 281 from falling off relative to the alignment supports 108 and the mounting flanges 123. The fasteners 281 may also interact operationally with the nuts or other retaining devices to generally facilitate the alignment of the mounting flanges 123 relative to the first surfaces 227.

[0035] The fasteners 122 can allow manual movement of the alignment supports 108 in a direction opposite to gravity, represented by arrow 273, to allow the alignment supports 108 to transition from the installed state to the installed state. The fasteners 122 can allow manual movement of the alignment supports 108 in the direction opposite to gravity 273 to create distances between the fasteners 122 and the corresponding parts of the support column 106. For example, the fastener 122 of the alignment support 108 shown on the left in Figure 2C can allow manual movement of the alignment support 108 in the direction opposite to gravity 273 to create a first distance 226a between the corresponding end 224 of the support column 106 and the corresponding fastener 122.As another example, the fastening element 122 of the alignment support 108 shown on the right in Figure 2C can allow manual movement of the alignment support 108 in the opposite direction to gravity 273 to create a second distance 226b between the corresponding end. Petition 870250089917, dated 02 / 10 / 2025, pp. 122 / 157 15 / 26 224 of the support column 106 and the corresponding fastening element 122. In some embodiments, the distances 226a-b may be equal to the distances between an engagement surface (such as that indicated by 342 in Figures 3A, 3B and 3D) of the corresponding fastening elements 122 and the corresponding ends 224 of the support column 106. In these and other embodiments, the first distance 226a may be equal to the second distance 226b. Alternatively, the first distance 226a may be different from the second distance 226b. During installation, the alignment supports 108 may be moved from positions corresponding to the installed state (e.g., exemplary positions illustrated in Figures 2A and 2B) to positions corresponding to the installed state (e.g., exemplary positions illustrated in Figure 2C).The alignment supports 108 can be positioned so that the bearing housing 104 and the rotary bearing 118 are positioned so that the torque tube 102 (not illustrated in Figures 2A-2C) extends along an axis, so as to avoid depressions, bends or other irregularities along a length of the torque tube 102 in the installed state. It is important to note that the installed state can have several other configurations besides that illustrated in Figure 2C. In another example of the installed state, one or more alignment supports 108 can physically fit into the ends 224 and one or more of the distances 226a-b can be equal to zero millimeters. Petition 870250089917, dated 02 / 10 / 2025, pp. 123 / 157 16 / 26

[0036] When in the positions corresponding to the installed state, the fasteners 232 can operationally interact with the nuts 251 to pull the alignment supports 108 toward the support column 106 to apply a compressive force to the alignment supports 108 and the support column 106. For example, the fasteners 232 can operationally interact with the nuts 251 to pull the second surfaces 230 of the bodies 221 toward the surfaces 128 of the support column 106 to apply the compressive force to the alignment supports 108 and the support column 106. The compressive forces applied by the fasteners 232 and the nuts 251 can cause the alignment supports 108 to ease into the positions corresponding to the installed state relative to the support column 106.

[0037] Two fasteners 232 are illustrated in Figure 2C as coupling the alignment supports 108 to the corresponding surfaces 128 of the support column 106, for illustrative purposes. However, multiple fasteners 232 can couple one or more alignment supports 108 to the corresponding surfaces 128 of the support column 106. For example, additional fasteners can be positioned behind a wall 225 of the support column 106. In this specific example, the fasteners 232 extend through the support column 106 and the bodies 221 in a volume (not illustrated in Figures 2A-2C) defined by the bodies 221, but other configurations can be used. For example, the fasteners 232 can extend Petition 870250089917, dated 02 / 10 / 2025, pp. 124 / 157 17 / 26 through the bodies 221 and the support column 106, and the nuts 251 can be positioned close to the support column 106.

[0038] The fasteners 281 can interact operationally with the nuts to pull the mounting flanges 123 towards the first surfaces 227 of the alignment supports 108, applying a compressive force to the alignment support 108 and the mounting flanges 123. The compressive forces applied by the fasteners 281 and the nuts can cause the bearing housing 104 to maintain a position corresponding to the installed state.

[0039] In the embodiment illustrated in Figure 2B, the openings 234 of the alignment supports 108 are shown as slots and the openings 241 of the support column 106 are shown as circular holes. However, it should be noted that the openings 234 of the alignment supports 108 and the openings 241 of the support column 106 may include any suitable shapes. For example, the openings 234 of the alignment supports 108 may include circular holes and the openings 241 of the support column 106 may include slots.

[0040] With reference to Figures 3A-3D, an example of the alignment supports of Figures 1-2C is shown. As shown in Figures 3A-3D, the fastening element 122 includes two fastening tabs 338. However, in other embodiments, the fastening element 122 may include one fastening tab 338 or three or more fastening tabs 338. For example, the fastening element 122 may include one fastening tab 338 positioned Petition 870250089917, dated 02 / 10 / 2025, pp. 125 / 157 18 / 26 in the center of a width of the alignment bracket 108. As another example, the fastener 122 may include three fastening tabs distributed along the width of the alignment bracket 108. As yet another example, the fastener 122 may include a fastening tab 338 that extends along the width of the alignment bracket 108.

[0041] As shown in Figures 3A-3D, the fastening tabs 338 are positioned at a second end 340 of the body 221. However, in other embodiments, the fastening tabs 338 may be positioned anywhere between or at the second end 340 and a first end 341 of the body 221. The fastening tabs 338 may be positioned along a height (for example, between the second end 340 and the first end 341 of the body 221) to make the height of the first surface 227 equal to or greater than the ends 224. For example, as illustrated in Figures 2A and 3A-3D, the fastening tabs 338 are positioned at the second end 340 of the body 221 to make the first surface 227 equal to or greater than the ends 224.

[0042] The fastening tabs 338 may include engagement surfaces 342. The engagement surfaces 342 may be configured to physically engage with the ends 224 of the support column 106. The engagement surfaces 342 may physically engage with the ends 224 of the support column 106 to prevent movement of the alignment support 108 in Petition 870250089917, dated 02 / 10 / 2025, pp. 126 / 157 19 / 26 direction of gravity (for example, in the direction of arrow 271 shown in Figures 2A-2C).

[0043] In some embodiments, the fastening tabs 338 may have a cross-sectional shape configured to engage with the corresponding part of the support column 106 (for example, the ends 224). For example, the fastening tabs 338 may have a semi-rectangular cross-sectional shape, suitable for engagement with the box shape of the ends 224 of the support column 106. Alternatively, and as illustrated in Figures 3A-3D, the fastening tabs 338 may have a semicircular cross-sectional shape, compatible with the rounded ends 224 of the support column 106. In these and other embodiments, the fastening tabs 338 may be configured with cross-sectional shapes capable of engaging with different geometries of the ends 224 of the support column 106.These shapes can include rounded, semicircular, U-shaped, semi-rectangular, rounded semi-rectangular, semi-square, triangular cross-sections, or any combination thereof.

[0044] The mounting surfaces 342 may have openings 344 (illustrated in Figures 3A and 3D). As discussed above, the fastening element 122 can be configured to engage with the corresponding parts of the support column 106 (e.g., the ends 224). In one example, the openings 344 can be configured to receive the ends 224 of the support column 106 to allow the Petition 870250089917, dated 02 / 10 / 2025, pp. 127 / 157 20 / 26 fastening element 122 engages with ends 224. In some embodiments, the openings 344 of the engagement surfaces 342 can be dimensioned based on a predefined thickness of the support column 106. In these and other embodiments, the openings 344 of the engagement surfaces 342 can be dimensioned to receive the corresponding parts of the support column 106 of different thicknesses.

[0045] The fastening tabs 338 can be positioned in different positions along the width of the alignment support 108 to accommodate the support column 106, including different widths or different configurations. For example, the fastening tabs 338, as illustrated in Figures 3A-3D, can be positioned at the ends of the second end 340 to accommodate the support column 106, including larger widths. As another example, the fastening tabs 338 can be positioned closer to or in the center of the second end 340 to accommodate the support column 106, including narrower or wider widths. Additionally or alternatively, the fastening tabs 338 can be positioned closer to or in the center of the second end 340 to accommodate a support column web 106 that is not centered with respect to the support column flanges 106.

[0046] In some embodiments, the body 221 and the fastening element 122, including the fastening tabs 338, may include a single-piece material. In other embodiments, the body Petition 870250089917, dated 02 / 10 / 2025, pp. 128 / 157 21 / 26 Body 221 and fastening element 122, including fastening tabs 338, may include multiple parts of material coupled together. Body 221 and fastening element 122 may include a metallic material, a plastic material, a rubber material, a ceramic material, or any other suitable material. In some embodiments, the metallic material may include an aluminum material, a steel material, a galvanized steel material, a pre-galvanized steel material, a zinc-coated steel material, an aluminum-coated steel material, a magnesium-coated steel material, or some combination thereof. In some embodiments, body 221 and fastening element 122, including fastening tabs 338, may include different parts of material. For example, body 221 may include aluminum material and fastening element 122 may include steel material.In some embodiments, the fastening element 122 may include a single horizontal part (not shown) that extends away from the body 221, and the fastening tabs 338 may extend away from the single horizontal part.

[0047] The body 221 may include a first portion 348 and a second portion 346. In some embodiments, the first portion 348 and the second portion 346 may be connected to each other at the second end 340 by means of a material bridge 351. Alternatively or additionally, the first portion 348 and the second portion 346 may be coupled to each other by means of the side walls 231 of the body 221. The second portion Petition 870250089917, dated 02 / 10 / 2025, pp. 129 / 157 22 / 26 346, as illustrated in Figures 3A-3C, may include an opening 336. In some embodiments, the opening 336 may be configured as a groove to allow movement of a fastener within the opening 336 when partially fastened. In some embodiments, the second portion 346 may include two or more openings. The first portion 348, as illustrated in Figure 3A-3C, may include an opening 336. 3A includes openings 234 configured to receive fasteners 232 for attaching the alignment support 108 to the support column 106, as discussed above in relation to Figures 2A-2C. In some embodiments, the openings 234 may be configured as grooves to allow movement of fasteners 232 within the openings 234 when partially fastened. In some embodiments, the first portion 348 may include one opening or three or more openings.

[0048] Figure 4A illustrates a perspective view of another example alignment support 400a. The example alignment support 400a may include a profile designed for loads different from those of the alignment supports 108 illustrated in Figures 1-3C. For example, the first portion 348 may not be connected to the second portion 346 by means of the side walls 431. However, the second portion 346 may be connected to the first portion 348 by means of the material bridge 351. In these and other embodiments, the side walls 431 may be flanges that extend away from the first portion 348 without being coupled to the second portion 346 in one or Petition 870250089917, dated 02 / 10 / 2025, pp. 130 / 157 23 / 26 both sides of alignment bracket 400a. As illustrated in Figure 4A, a fastening element 422a of alignment bracket 400a includes fastening tabs 438a with a U-shaped cross-section or a semi-rectangular or curved semi-rectangular cross-section. It is important to note that the fastening tabs 438a may have several other configurations besides those illustrated in Figure 4A. For example, the fastening tabs 438a may include a rounded cross-section, a semicircular cross-section, a U-shaped cross-section, a semi-rectangular cross-section, a semi-square cross-section, or some combination thereof.

[0049] Figure 4B illustrates a perspective view of another example of alignment support 400b. The example alignment support 400b may include a profile designed for loads different from those of the alignment supports 108 illustrated in Figures 1-3C and 400a illustrated in Figure 4A. For example, the side walls 231 and 431 are omitted. However, the second portion 346 may be coupled to the first portion 348 by means of the material bridge 351. In these and other embodiments, as illustrated in Figure 4B, a fastening element 422b of the alignment support 400b includes fastening tabs 438b with a semi-square cross-section. It is important to note that the fastening tabs 438b may have several other configurations besides those illustrated in Figure 4B. For example, the fastening tabs 438b may include a Petition 870250089917, dated 02 / 10 / 2025, pp. 131 / 157 24 / 26 rounded cross-sectional shape, a semicircular cross-sectional shape, a U-shaped cross-sectional shape, a semirectangular cross-sectional shape, a semisquare cross-sectional shape, or some combination thereof.

[0050] Figures 5A and 5B illustrate a perspective view and an exploded perspective view, respectively, of an example alignment bracket 500. The example alignment bracket 500, as illustrated in Figures 5A and 5B, includes an independent fastening element 522 and an independent body 521. The example alignment bracket 500 may be comparable to the alignment brackets 108 of Figures 1-3D, but the independent fastening element 522 and the independent body 521 are separate components. During manufacturing or operation, the independent fastening element 522 may be permanently or temporarily coupled to the independent body 521.

[0051] The independent fastening element 522, as shown in Figures 5A and 5B, may include fastening tabs 538 coupled to a fastening body 555 (shown in Figure 5B). The alignment support 500 may include corner openings 557 configured to receive the fastening tabs 538 so that the fastening body 555 is close to the material bridge 351 and the fastening tabs 538 extend away from the independent body 521.

[0052] In some embodiments, as illustrated in Figures 5A and 5B, the fastening tabs 538 may have a Petition 870250089917, dated 02 / 10 / 2025, pp. 132 / 157 25 / 26 L-shaped cross-section. It is important to note that the fastening tabs 538 of the independent fastening element 522 may have several other configurations besides those illustrated in Figures 5A and 5B. For example, the fastening tabs 538 may include a rounded cross-section shape, a semi-square cross-section shape, a semicircular cross-section shape, a U-shaped cross-section shape, a semi-rectangular cross-section shape, a semi-square cross-section shape, or some combination thereof.

[0053] The disclosed embodiments include alignment supports 108, 400a-b, or 500 which include fastening elements 122 or 522 that assist in the installation process.For example, fasteners 122 or 522 facilitate the positioning and / or alignment of alignment brackets 108, 400a-b, or 500 in relation to support column 106 before fasteners 232 attach alignment brackets 108, 400a-b, or 500 to support column 106. Fasteners 122 or 522 eliminate the need for an installer (or assistant) to facilitate the positioning and / or alignment of alignment brackets 108, 400a-b, or 500 in relation to support column 106 during the installation of fasteners 232. Fasteners 122 or 522 increase installation efficiency, reduce labor requirements, and thus reduce the costs associated with the installation process.

[0054] The terms used in this disclosure and, especially, in the accompanying claims (for example, the Petition 870250089917, dated 02 / 10 / 2025, pp. 133 / 157 26 / 26 of the claims) should be interpreted as open-ended terms. For example, the term “including” should be understood as “including, but not limited to”.

[0055] All examples and conditional language presented in this disclosure are for illustrative and educational purposes only, with the aim of assisting the reader in understanding the present subject matter and the concepts introduced by the inventor to advance the technique. These examples and conditions should not be interpreted as limiting the disclosure. Although the embodiments described have been presented in detail, various alterations, substitutions and modifications may be made without departing from the spirit and scope of this disclosure. Petition 870250089917, dated 02 / 10 / 2025, pp. 134 / 157

Claims

1 / 8 CLAIMS 1. A suitable alignment support to facilitate the connection of solar components in a photovoltaic (PV) system, the alignment support being CHARACTERIZED by comprising: a first surface configured to physically interact with a corresponding surface of a solar component of the PV system, the first surface having a proximal end, a distal end, a first lateral edge connecting the proximal and distal ends on a first side of the first surface and a second lateral edge connecting the proximal and distal ends on a second side of the first surface;a second surface configured to physically interact with a corresponding surface of a support column, the second surface having a proximal end, a distal end, a first lateral edge connecting the proximal and distal ends on a first side of the second surface, and a second lateral edge connecting the proximal and distal ends on a second side of the second surface, wherein at least portions of the proximal ends of the first and second surfaces are connected such that the first and second surfaces are approximately orthogonal to each other;and Petition 870250089917, dated 02 / 10 / 2025, page 135 / 157 2 / 8 a fastening element formed integrally with at least one of the first surface and the second surface, the fastening element comprising an engagement surface that extends in a direction generally opposite to that in which the first surface extends, the engagement surface being configured to engage with an upper surface of the support column in order to facilitate the positioning of the second surface in relation to the corresponding surface of the support column.; 2. Alignment support according to claim 1, CHARACTERIZED in that the engagement surface is configured to engage with the upper surface of the support column, so that the alignment support hangs and is supported by the support column.

3. Alignment support according to claim 1, CHARACTERIZED in that the engagement surface is configured to engage with the upper surface of the support column to allow manual movement of the alignment support relative to the support column.

4. Alignment support according to claim 1, CHARACTERIZED in that: the second surface includes a first opening; the engagement surface is configured to engage with the upper surface of the support column to facilitate the positioning of the second surface in relation to the corresponding surface of the support column, so that the first opening is positioned close to a corresponding second opening of the support column; and the first opening and the corresponding second opening are dimensioned to receive a fastener, intended to couple the alignment support to the support column.

5. Alignment support according to claim 4, CHARACTERIZED in that the first opening includes a groove.

6. Alignment support according to claim 1, CHARACTERIZED further comprising a second fastening element integrally formed from at least one of the first surface and the second surface, the second fastening element comprising a second engagement surface extending in the direction generally opposite to the direction in which the first surface extends, the engagement surface configured to engage with the upper surface of the support column to facilitate the positioning of the second surface relative to the corresponding surface of the support column.

7. Alignment support according to claim 1, CHARACTERIZED in that the engagement surface includes a fixing opening, the fixing opening being molded to receive the upper surface of the support column.

8. Alignment support according to claim 1, CHARACTERIZED in that the solar component of the photovoltaic system comprises at least one of the following: a bearing housing; a torque tube interface; a drive system; a rotation lock; a damping device; a sensor; an electronic device; a structural arm; a structural bearing; or a structural bushing.

9. Alignment support according to claim 1, CHARACTERIZED in that the alignment support comprises a single piece of material.

10. Alignment support according to claim 1, CHARACTERIZED in that the fastening element: comprises at least one of: a rounded cross-section, a semicircular cross-section, a U-shaped cross-section, a semi-rectangular cross-section or a semi-square cross-section; and is dimensioned or shaped based on the thickness of the support column.

11. Alignment support according to claim 1, CHARACTERIZED in that the alignment support is made of at least one of: a galvanized steel material, a zinc-coated steel material, an aluminum-coated steel material, or a magnesium-coated steel material.

12. Alignment support according to claim 1, CHARACTERIZED in that the first surface further comprises at least one of: an opening, a groove, a screw, a fastener, a bolt or a post for attaching the solar component of the photovoltaic system to the alignment support.

13. Suitable alignment support to facilitate the connection of solar components in a photovoltaic (PV) system, the alignment support being CHARACTERIZED by comprising: a first surface configured to physically interact with a corresponding surface of a solar component of the PV system, the first surface having a proximal end, a distal end, a first lateral edge connecting the proximal and distal ends on a first side of the first surface and a second lateral edge connecting the proximal and distal ends on a second side of the first surface;Petition 870250089917, dated 10 / 02 / 2025, page 139 / 157 6 / 8 a second surface configured to physically interact with a corresponding surface of a support column, the second surface having a proximal end, a distal end, a first lateral edge connecting the proximal and distal ends on a first side of the second surface and a second lateral edge connecting the proximal and distal ends on a second side of the second surface, wherein at least portions of the proximal ends of the first and second surfaces are connected such that the first and second surfaces are approximately orthogonal to each other; a lateral wall connecting at least a portion of the first lateral edge of the first surface with at least a portion of the first lateral edge of the second surface;and a fastening element comprising a hook tab that includes a curved engagement surface configured to engage with a portion of the support column to facilitate positioning of the second surface relative to the corresponding surface of the support column.

14. Alignment support according to claim 13, CHARACTERIZED in that the engagement surface is configured to engage with the support column portion so that the alignment support hangs from and is supported by the support column. Petition 870250089917, dated 10 / 02 / 2025, pp. 140 / 157 7 / 8 15. Alignment support according to claim 13, CHARACTERIZED in that: the second surface includes a first opening; the engagement surface is configured to engage with the support column portion to facilitate positioning of the second surface relative to the corresponding surface of the support column, such that the first opening is positioned close to a corresponding second opening of the support column; and the first opening and the corresponding second opening are dimensioned to receive a fastener for attaching the alignment support to the support column.

16. Alignment support according to claim 15, CHARACTERIZED in that the first opening includes a groove.

17. Alignment support according to claim 13, CHARACTERIZED in that it further comprises a second hook tab comprising a second engagement surface configured to engage with the support column portion to facilitate positioning of the second surface relative to the corresponding surface of the support column.

18. Alignment support according to claim 13, CHARACTERIZED in that the solar component of the photovoltaic system comprises at least one of the following: a bearing housing; a torque tube interface; a drive system; a rotation lock; a damping device; a sensor; an electronic device; a structural arm; a structural bearing; or a structural bushing.

19. Alignment support according to claim 13, CHARACTERIZED in that the first surface, the second surface, the side wall and the hook tab comprise a single piece of material.

20. Alignment support according to claim 13, CHARACTERIZED in that the alignment support is made of at least one of the following materials: galvanized steel, zinc-coated steel, aluminum-coated steel, or magnesium-coated steel. Petition 870250089917, dated 10 / 02 / 2025, pp. 142 / 157

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