A connecting structure for fixing a photovoltaic module to a purlin
The connection structure between the snap-fit seat and the upper pressure block solves the problem of unstable connection between photovoltaic modules and purlins, achieving efficient and stable installation and simplified maintenance, thus improving the operation and maintenance efficiency of photovoltaic power plants.
Patent Information
- Authority / Receiving Office
- CN · China
- Patent Type
- Utility models(China)
- Current Assignee / Owner
- POWERCHINA HUADONG ENG CORP LTD
- Filing Date
- 2025-07-25
- Publication Date
- 2026-06-16
AI Technical Summary
The traditional bolt-through connection method between photovoltaic modules and purlins is inconvenient to operate, difficult to install, has unstable connections, and is cumbersome to maintain, affecting the long-term operation and maintenance of photovoltaic power plants.
The photovoltaic module is secured by a connection structure of a snap-fit seat and an upper pressure block. The snap-fit seat is slidably installed in the mounting hole of the purlin and locked to the purlin. The upper pressure block and the snap-fit seat are fixed by a connector to achieve the pressing and fixing of the photovoltaic module. The operation is carried out from above the purlin to avoid operation in narrow spaces.
It improves installation efficiency and connection stability, reduces the risk of misalignment during installation, simplifies maintenance and repair processes, and reduces operation and maintenance costs.
Smart Images

Figure CN224367757U_ABST
Abstract
Description
Technical Field
[0001] This utility model relates to the field of photovoltaic equipment installation technology, and in particular to a connection structure for fixing photovoltaic modules and purlins. Background Technology
[0002] In the installation of fixed photovoltaic (PV) modules, the connection between the PV modules and purlins is a crucial step. Traditionally, PV modules and purlins are fixed using bolt-through connections, which have several drawbacks. During installation, nuts need to be fitted inside the purlin, which restricts the working space, especially when the internal space of the purlin is narrow, making the process extremely inconvenient and increasing installation difficulty and time costs. Furthermore, it is difficult to ensure the accurate positioning of the nuts when fitting them inside the purlin, leading to problems such as nut misalignment and tilting, affecting the stability and reliability of the connection. In addition, the traditional connection method involves cumbersome disassembly and reinstallation processes during maintenance and repair, which is detrimental to the long-term operation and maintenance of PV power plants.
[0003] Therefore, a new connection structure is needed to solve the above problems. Summary of the Invention
[0004] The technical problem to be solved by this utility model is to provide a connection structure for fixing photovoltaic modules and purlins, in view of the above-mentioned problems.
[0005] The technical solution adopted in this utility model is: a connection structure for fixing photovoltaic modules and purlins, comprising:
[0006] The first mounting hole is opened at the top of the purlin and is arranged at intervals along the extension direction of the purlin;
[0007] The upper pressure block is located at the top of the photovoltaic module frame, and a second mounting hole is provided through the top, which corresponds to the first mounting hole below;
[0008] The buckle seat is slidably disposed in the first mounting hole along the direction from the top to the bottom of the purlin, and has a third mounting hole at the top. The buckle seat can lock itself with the purlin to prevent itself from coming out of the first mounting hole.
[0009] The connector passes through the second and third mounting holes in sequence, which can fix the upper pressure block and the buckle seat, so that the upper pressure block and the purlin locked by the buckle seat cooperate to press and fix the photovoltaic module.
[0010] Using the aforementioned technical means, the latching seat is slidably installed into the first mounting hole, and the latching seat and purlin are mutually locked to prevent the latching seat from falling out of the first mounting hole. By placing the frame of the photovoltaic module between the upper pressure block and the purlin, and using a connector passing through the upper pressure block and the latching seat, the upper pressure block and purlin are pressed and fixed to the photovoltaic module. At the same time, because the latching seat and the first mounting hole of the purlin are mutually locked, the latching seat will not shift or fall out of the first mounting hole during the installation process.
[0011] In some embodiments, the bottom periphery of the buckle seat is provided with a barb, and the first mounting hole of the purlin is provided with a snap-fit protrusion facing its own bottom. When the buckle seat is slidably installed into the first mounting hole, the barb and the snap-fit protrusion can engage to restrict the buckle seat from moving toward the photovoltaic module.
[0012] In some embodiments, the connector includes a bolt and a nut, the nut being embedded in the snap-fit seat, and the bolt being able to pass through the second mounting hole of the upper pressure block and the third mounting hole on the snap-fit seat, and be threadedly connected to the nut in the snap-fit seat.
[0013] In some embodiments, the first mounting hole is square, and the snap-fit seat is adapted to the first mounting hole.
[0014] The beneficial effects of this utility model are:
[0015] 1. By sliding the snap-fit bracket into the first mounting hole and locking it to the purlin, the connection position is relatively stable, reducing the risk of the snap-fit bracket shifting during installation. The upper pressure block, in conjunction with the purlin, presses the frame of the photovoltaic module firmly, and then the connector further connects and secures the upper pressure block to the snap-fit bracket. Simultaneously, the snap-fit bracket positions the connector, significantly improving installation efficiency. This application adopts a top-mounted unidirectional installation method, with all operations completed above the purlin, eliminating the need to enter the purlin's interior. Attached Figure Description
[0016] Figure 1 This is a structural diagram of this application.
[0017] Figure 2 This is a structural schematic diagram from the top view of this application.
[0018] Figure 3 This is a schematic diagram of the purlin structure in this application.
[0019] Figure 4 This is a schematic diagram of the upper pressure block in this application.
[0020] Figure 5 This is a schematic diagram of the buckle seat in this application.
[0021] Explanation of reference numerals in the attached figures:
[0022] 1. Photovoltaic module frame; 2. Purlin; 3. Upper pressure block; 4. Bolt; 5. Nut; 6. Clip seat; 7. First mounting hole; 8. Second mounting hole; 9. Third mounting hole; 10. Barb; 11. Snap-fit protrusion.
[0023] This specification includes references to "one embodiment" or "implementation". The use of the phrase "in one embodiment" or "in an embodiment" does not necessarily refer to the same embodiment. Specific features, structures, or characteristics may be combined in any suitable manner consistent with this disclosure.
[0024] The term "comprising" is open-ended. As used in the appended claims, it does not exclude additional structures or steps.
[0025] "First," "second," etc. As used in this article, these terms serve as labels for the nouns preceding them and do not imply any type of ordering (e.g., spatial, temporal, logical, etc.). Detailed Implementation
[0026] To enable those skilled in the art to better understand the present invention, the technical solution of the present invention will be further described below with reference to specific embodiments.
[0027] Combination Figures 1 to 5 As shown, this embodiment is a connection structure for fixing a photovoltaic module and a purlin, including a first mounting hole 7, an upper pressure block 3, a latching seat 6, and a connector. The first mounting hole 7 is provided on the top of the purlin 2, and the first mounting holes 7 are spaced apart along the extension direction of the purlin 2. A second mounting hole 8 is provided through the top of the upper pressure block 3. The upper pressure block 3 is located on the top of the photovoltaic module frame 1, and the upper pressure block 3 cooperates with the purlin 2 to clamp the frame of the photovoltaic module. The position of the second mounting hole 8 corresponds to the position of the first mounting hole 7. A latching seat 6 is slidably provided inside the first mounting hole 7 of the purlin 2 along the direction from the top to the bottom of the purlin 2. After sliding into the first mounting hole 7, the latching seat 6 can lock itself with the purlin 2 to prevent itself from falling out of the first mounting hole 7. A third mounting hole 9 is provided on the top of the latching seat 6, and the position of the third mounting hole 9 corresponds to the position of the second mounting hole 8. The connector passes through the second mounting hole 8 and the third mounting hole 9 in sequence. The connector can connect and fix the upper pressure block 3 and the buckle seat 6, so that the upper pressure block 3 and the purlin 2 locked by the buckle seat 6 cooperate to press and fix the photovoltaic module.
[0028] The upper pressure block 3 firmly clamps the photovoltaic module frame 1 between the purlin 2 and the upper pressure block 3 through the connector, forming a stable clamping force.
[0029] Furthermore, such as Figure 3As shown, the first mounting hole 7 is square, and the buckle seat 6 is adapted to the first mounting hole 7.
[0030] The square structure has better torsional resistance than the round hole, preventing the buckle seat 6 from rotating during the stress process and improving the connection stability.
[0031] In some implementation schemes, such as Figure 5 As shown, the bottom periphery of the buckle seat 6 is provided with a barb 10, and the first mounting hole 7 of the purlin 2 is provided with a snap-fit protrusion 11 facing its own bottom. When the buckle seat 6 is slidably installed into the first mounting hole 7, the barb 10 and the snap-fit protrusion 11 can snap together to restrict the buckle seat 6 from moving towards the photovoltaic module.
[0032] When the snap-fit seat 6 slides into the first mounting hole 7, its barb 10 will interfere with the snap-fit protrusion 11 on the edge of the first mounting hole 7, effectively preventing the snap-fit seat 6 from accidentally coming out before it is fully fixed, thus enhancing the stability during installation. Before the bolt 4 is tightened, the snap-fit seat 6 can also provide preliminary positioning and fixing, improving the pull-out resistance of the overall connection structure.
[0033] In some implementation schemes, such as Figure 1 As shown, the connector includes a bolt 4 and a nut 5. The nut 5 is embedded in the snap-fit seat 6, preventing it from rotating naturally within the seat. The bolt 4 passes through the second mounting hole 8 on the upper pressure block 3 and the third mounting hole 9 on the snap-fit seat 6, and is threadedly connected to the nut 5 within the snap-fit seat 6. During installation, simply insert the bolt 4 from top to bottom and screw it into the nut 5 within the snap-fit seat 6 to complete the fastening process.
[0034] Furthermore, in this embodiment, bolt 4 is an M8*60 hexagon socket head cap bolt, nut 5 is an M8, and purlin 2 is a C-shaped steel purlin.
[0035] In this embodiment, the connectors adopt a detachable structure, which facilitates the inspection, replacement, or relocation of photovoltaic modules. Disassembly can be completed without damaging the structure, which is beneficial for the long-term operation and maintenance management of photovoltaic power plants.
[0036] The implementation principle of a connection structure for fixing photovoltaic modules and purlins is as follows:
[0037] The snap-fit seat 6, upper pressure block 3, and connecting parts can all be installed sequentially from the top of the purlin 2, eliminating the need to place nuts 5 under the purlin 2. This avoids working in the narrow space under the purlin 2 and allows for one-way operation from the top. By pre-embedding the nuts 5 in the snap-fit seat 6, they are less likely to fall off or be lost, improving on-site assembly efficiency and success rate. The snap-fit seat 6 structure eliminates the need for repeated adjustments to the nut 5 position; simply aligning the holes and tightening the bolts 4 completes the connection, increasing installation speed. The connection structure in this embodiment also enhances the stability and reliability of the connection. Compared to traditional connection methods, it better resists external vibrations, wind forces, and other forces, reducing the risk of loosening or displacement of the photovoltaic modules. During maintenance and repair, simply loosening the top bolts 4 allows for easy disassembly of the photovoltaic modules, making the operation simple and convenient and reducing the operation and maintenance costs of photovoltaic power plants.
[0038] Example 2:
[0039] This embodiment describes an installation method for a connection structure between a fixed photovoltaic module and a purlin, applied to the connection structure between the fixed photovoltaic module and the purlin in Embodiment 1, and includes the following steps:
[0040] S1. Before installation, prepare the necessary parts, including purlins 2 with square holes, buckle seats 6 with barbs 10, bolts 4, nuts 5 and upper pressure blocks 3, and ensure that the dimensional accuracy and quality of each part meet the requirements.
[0041] S2. Pass the bolt 4 through the upper pressure block 3 and the nut 5 in the buckle seat 6 in sequence, so that part of the bolt protrudes from the bottom of the buckle seat 6.
[0042] S3. Align the snap-fit seat 6 with the screw rod with the first mounting hole 7 at the top of the purlin 2, and slowly press down so that the barb 10 of the snap-fit seat 6 engages with the snap-fit protrusion 11 on the edge of the first mounting hole 7, and the screw rod of the bolt 4 passes through the first mounting hole 7. At this time, carefully observe whether the barb 10 of the snap-fit seat 6 smoothly enters the first mounting hole 7 without deformation or damage.
[0043] S4. Above the purlin 2, use an Allen wrench to tighten the Allen bolt 4. As the bolt 4 rotates, the nut 5 causes the retaining seat 6 to gradually move upward, and the clamping force between the retaining seat 6 and the first mounting hole 7 gradually increases until a suitable tightness is achieved. During the tightening process, a torque wrench can be used to control the tightening torque to ensure the reliability of the connection.
[0044] S5. Place the photovoltaic module on top of the purlin 2, aligning the frame 1 of the photovoltaic module with the position of the installed buckle 6.
[0045] S6. Place the upper pressure block 3 above the photovoltaic module frame 1, and further tighten the bolts 4 to press the upper pressure block 3 against the photovoltaic module frame 1, thus completing the fixed connection between the photovoltaic module and the purlin 2.
[0046] S7. After installation, inspect the connection structure to ensure that all components are securely installed and that the photovoltaic modules are tightly connected to the purlins 2 without any looseness. At the same time, check the fit between the barb 10 and the first mounting hole 7, as well as the pressing effect of the upper pressure block 3 on the photovoltaic module frame 1. If any problems are found, adjust or reinstall in a timely manner.
[0047] The above are all preferred embodiments of this utility model, and are not intended to limit the scope of protection of this utility model. Therefore, all equivalent changes made to the structure, shape and principle of this utility model should be covered within the scope of protection of this utility model.
Claims
1. A connection structure for fixing photovoltaic modules and purlins, characterized in that, include: The first mounting hole (7) is opened at the top of the purlin (2) and is arranged at intervals along the extension direction of the purlin (2); The upper pressure block (3) is located at the top of the photovoltaic module frame (1), and the top is provided with a second mounting hole (8) that corresponds to the first mounting hole (7) below. The buckle seat (6) is slidably disposed in the first mounting hole (7) along the direction from the top to the bottom of the purlin (2), and the top is provided with a third mounting hole (9). The buckle seat (6) can lock with the purlin (2) to prevent itself from coming out of the first mounting hole (7). The connector passes through the second mounting hole (8) and the third mounting hole (9) in sequence, which can fix the upper pressure block (3) and the buckle seat (6) so that the upper pressure block (3) and the purlin (2) locked by the buckle seat (6) cooperate to press and fix the photovoltaic module.
2. The connection structure for fixing photovoltaic modules and purlins according to claim 1, characterized in that: The bottom periphery of the buckle seat (6) is provided with a barb (10), and the first mounting hole (7) of the purlin (2) is provided with a snap-fit protrusion (11) facing its own bottom. When the buckle seat (6) is slidably installed into the first mounting hole (7), the barb (10) and the snap-fit protrusion (11) can snap together to restrict the buckle seat (6) from moving toward the photovoltaic module.
3. The connection structure for fixing photovoltaic modules and purlins according to claim 1, characterized in that: The connector includes a bolt (4) and a nut (5). The nut (5) is embedded in the buckle seat (6). The bolt (4) can pass through the second mounting hole (8) of the upper pressure block (3) and the third mounting hole (9) on the buckle seat (6), and be threadedly connected to the nut (5) in the buckle seat (6).
4. The connection structure for fixing photovoltaic modules and purlins according to claim 1, characterized in that: The first mounting hole (7) is square, and the buckle seat (6) is adapted to the first mounting hole (7).