MOUNTING BRACKET

Abstract

A mounting bracket assembly may include an upper region with flat portions at either end that interface with a photovoltaic (PV) module, a lower portion between the flat portions, and a central portion that at least partially surrounds a hole formed to accommodate a torsion bar. The mounting bracket assembly may also include side portions extending from the ends of the upper region down to the bottom of the hole formed to accommodate the torsion bar, and a first outer sleeve along the periphery of the mounting bracket assembly. The mounting bracket assembly may also include a second outer sleeve along the hole formed to accommodate the torsion bar and multiple braces extending between the first and second outer sleeves.

Description

MOUNTING BRACKET Field of Invention This description refers to a mounting bracket. Background of the Invention This description refers to mounting hardware (physical components) for photovoltaic systems. Most photovoltaic (PV) modules are very heavy because they use glass to coat the PV cells. A solar mounting system, therefore, must be able to withstand the weight of an array of one or more PV modules and the forces of nature that may act upon it. In addition to supporting heavy solar arrays and the associated natural forces, the solar tracking equipment must also be able to move the solar array so that it tracks the sun. This may require motors with significant power. Therefore, mounting and tracking systems for PV modules are typically complex, relatively large assemblies comprising heavy, bulky components. These components can add significant cost to a solar energy system for at least two reasons. First, the components themselves are expensive to manufacture, ship, and install. Second Ref. 340194 On-site, installation and operation can be costly because they require time and skilled operators to conduct quality control measurements in the field. Therefore, there is a need for PV mounting system components that minimize overall material usage, are lighter, and reduce costs. Furthermore, there is a need for PV mounting system components that can reduce the time required for installation and quality control during on-site construction. Additionally, many PV systems today use modules with special racks or frameless modules. Depending on whether the PV modules use standard racks or these other variations, different components and designs are required for the mounting and tracking systems. Therefore, there is a need for a PV mounting system with a basic design capable of mounting PV modules using standard racks, special racks, and even frameless modules. Therefore, there is a need for PV mounting system components that efficiently use structural material only where needed. There is also a need for a PV mounting system with components that provide easier and faster installation and quality control capabilities. Finally, there is a need for a PV mounting system capable of mounting modules using standard frames, special frames, and even frameless modules. The content claimed in this document is not limited to modalities that resolve some of the disadvantages or that operate only in environments such as those described above. Rather, this section is provided only to illustrate an exemplary area of ​​technology where some of the modalities described in this document can be practiced. Brief Description of the Invention This Brief Description is provided to present a selection of concepts in a simplified form, which are further presented later in the Detailed Description. This Brief Description is not intended to identify key elements or essential characteristics of the claimed content, nor is it intended to be used as an aid in determining the scope of the claimed content. One embodiment of the present description may include a mounting bracket assembly comprising an upper region with flat portions at either end that interface with a photovoltaic (PV) module and a lower portion between the flat portions, and a central portion that at least partially surrounds a hole formed to accommodate a torsion bar. The mounting bracket assembly may also include side portions extending from the ends of the upper region down to the bottom of the hole formed to accommodate the torsion bar and a first outer sleeve along the periphery of the mounting bracket assembly. The mounting bracket assembly may also include a second outer sleeve along the hole formed to accommodate the torsion bar and multiple reinforcements extending between the first outer sleeve and the second outer sleeve. One or more of any of the above mounting bracket assemblies may further include first metal sleeves within the flat portions, formed and positioned to have space for screws to attach the mounting bracket assembly to the PV module. One or more of any of the above mounting bracket assemblies may further include a second metal sleeve within the side portions, shaped and positioned to have room for at least one bottom screw to attach the mounting bracket assembly to the torsion bar. One or more of any of the above mounting bracket assemblies may further include a conductive component within the mounting bracket assembly that may be exposed along at least one of the flat surfaces and exposed within the hole formed to accommodate the torsion bar and may be in electrical communication with each other. According to one or more of any of the above mounting support assemblies, the first outer liner and the second outer liner can be a continuous liner that sits in an opening in the center portion. One or more of any of the above mounting support assemblies may further include a tool-less fastener that can be arranged in a meeting of the side portions beneath the center portion. In accordance with one or more of any of the above mounting support assemblies, the toolless fastener may include a post and cam locking mechanism. One or more of any of the above mounting bracket assemblies may further include an individual screw and a first lug clamp including a first inclined surface, wherein the first inclined surface may be formed to interact with an outer surface of a first lateral portion of the lateral portions near the top region. The first lug clamp may include a first upper lug, formed and positioned to provide downward force against the PV module, and a first receiving region through which the individual screw passes.The mounting bracket assembly may also include a second lug clamp with a second angled surface. This angled surface may be shaped to interact with an outer surface of a second side portion near the top region, such that the single screw is tightened, and the first and second lug clamps slide down along the first and second side portions. The second lug clamp may include a second upper lug, shaped and positioned to provide downward force against the PV module, and a second receiving region through which the single screw passes. One or more of any of the above mounting support assemblies may further include generally triangular openings in a material between the top region, the side portions, and the center portion. According to one or more of any of the above mounting support assemblies, a first side of the top region may extend farther from the central portion than a second side of the top region such that the first side and the second side of the top region are asymmetrical. One or more embodiments of the present description may include a mounting bracket assembly that may include a body which may include an opening in the body formed to interact with and coincide with at least a portion of a torsion bar profile such that the torsion bar extends at least halfway into the body when disposed within the opening and is flush with at least a portion of the opening. The body may also include a ridge along an upper edge of the body and two shelves from which the ridge can extend upward, wherein the two shelves can be disposed on either side of the body and can be formed to have photovoltaic (PV) modules placed thereon while the PV modules abut the ridge. One or more of any of the above mounting support assemblies may further include a pair of module locating fins that extend outward from the shelves and protrude upward and are positioned to interact with a hole or opening in a PV module frame. According to one or more of any of the above mounting support assemblies, the pair of module locating fins can be spaced a standardized distance that corresponds to the distance between holes in the PV module, where the spacing can include one of 400 mm, 600 mm, 800 mm or 1000 mm. According to one or more of any of the above mounting bracket assemblies, the module locating fin pair may include an accessory that is attached to the mounting bracket assembly. In accordance with one or more of any of the above mounting support assemblies, the pair of module locating fins can be formed as part of the body. According to one or more of any of the above mounting support assemblies, the ridge may include a profile that extends directly upward from the two shelves. One or more of any of the above mounting bracket assemblies may further include a hole in the body above the receiving portion sized to allow wires to pass through it. One or more of any of the above mounting bracket assemblies may further include a projection on one or both of an edge of the opening or an edge of the hole. According to one or more of any of the above mounting support assemblies, the body can be made from a single sheet of metal. One or more embodiments of the present description may include a system comprising multiple photovoltaic (PV) modules arranged in multiple rows and coupled to a torsion bar for each row, wherein each row is movable by means of a motor to adjust the orientation of the torsion bar and, consequently, the orientation of a given row of PV modules. The system may also include multiple mounting bracket assemblies for attaching the PV modules to the torsion bars, wherein each mounting bracket assembly may include an upper region with flat portions at either end that can interface with the PV module and a lower portion between the flat portions.Mounting bracket assemblies may also include a center portion that at least partially surrounds a hole formed to accommodate the torsion bar, and side portions that extend from the ends of the upper region to below the hole formed to accommodate the torsion bar. Mounting bracket assemblies may also include a first outer sleeve along the periphery of the respective mounting bracket assembly, a second outer sleeve along the hole formed to accommodate the torsion bar, and reinforcements that extend between the first and second outer sleeves. The additional elements and advantages of the description will be set forth in the following description, and some will be evident from the description, or can be learned through practice. The elements and advantages of the description can be implemented and obtained by means of the instruments and combinations specifically mentioned in the appended claims. These and other elements of the present description will become more evident from the following description and the appended claims, or can be learned through practice as set forth herein. Brief Description of the Figures To further clarify the advantages and elements mentioned above, as well as other aspects of this description, a more detailed explanation will be provided for specific modalities, which are illustrated in the attached figures. It should be noted that these figures represent only typical modalities of the description and should therefore not be considered as limiting its scope. The description will be presented and explained with additional specificity and detail through the use of associated figures in which: Figure 1 is a front perspective view of an exemplary embodiment of a mounting bracket assembly according to the present description; Figure 2 illustrates a force distribution in a modality according to the present description; Figure 3 is a front perspective view of the mounting bracket assembly of Figure 1 with forces applied to the mounting bracket assembly and color representing different stresses; Figure 4A is a front view of the mounting bracket assembly of Figure 1; Figure 4B is a cropped view of the mounting bracket assembly of Figure 1; Figure 5 is a front view of the mounting bracket assembly of Figure 1 with a conductive component; Figure 6 illustrates another exemplary form of a mounting bracket assembly according to the present description; Figures 7A-7E illustrate various views of possible connection mechanisms associated with a mounting bracket assembly according to the present description; Figures 8A-8C illustrate several views of an additional exemplary embodiment of a mounting bracket assembly according to the present description; Figures 8D and 8E illustrate several views of an additional exemplary embodiment of a mounting bracket assembly according to the present description; Figures 9A and 9B illustrate an additional exemplary embodiment of a mounting bracket assembly according to the present description; and Figures 10A and 10B illustrate various views of an additional exemplary embodiment of a mounting bracket assembly according to the present description. The figures also include a grayscale version of the duplicate figures. Detailed Description of the Invention This description refers to variations in mounting bracket assemblies. In some circumstances, the mounting bracket assembly may be made of plastic or another inexpensive material that is easier to work with and less costly than metal. However, these materials have not traditionally been used in mounting bracket assemblies due to damage caused by ultraviolet (UV) rays, difficulties in designing and / or constructing a mounting bracket assembly with sufficient material strength, and so on. This description provides examples of ways in which these difficulties can be overcome so that plastic (including fiber-reinforced plastics, carbon black, etc.) can be used as the mounting bracket assembly material.In some forms, the plastic may be injection-molded plastic, reaction injection molded (RIM) plastic, and / or rotationally molded plastic, which may or may not include one or more inserts to create the mounting bracket assembly. In the following paragraphs, the modalities will be described in detail by way of example with reference to the associated figures, which are not drawn to scale, and the illustrated components are not necessarily drawn proportionally to one another. Throughout this description, the modalities and examples shown should be considered as examples, rather than as limitations of this description. As used herein, this description refers to any of the modalities described herein and any equivalent. Furthermore, reference to various aspects of the description throughout this document does not mean that all claimed modalities or methods must include the aspects referenced. In general, the embodiments described herein pertain to mounting support assemblies, mounting assembly components, and associated systems and methods. The exemplary embodiments make efficient use of structural material by employing a flexible structural component to secure an electricity-generating device. An electricity-generating device could be any type of device that directly or indirectly converts solar radiation into electricity or collects, reflects, or concentrates solar radiation, including photovoltaic cells or modules, solar thermal devices, solar energy collectors, or components thereof. The assemblies and methods disclosed herein provide easier quality control capabilities.More specifically, rotating an individual locking nut secures an electricity-generating device, such as a photovoltaic (PV) module, to a rounded, square, hexagonal, octagonal, etc., torsion bar. These and other advantages are explained in more detail later. Figure 1 illustrates an exemplary mounting bracket assembly 100, according to one or more embodiments of the present description. The mounting bracket assembly 100 may include a top region 110, a first side portion 120, a second side portion 130, and a center portion 140. The top region 110, the first side portion 120, the second side portion 130, and / or the center portion 140 may create one or more holes 150 in the mounting bracket assembly 100. The mounting bracket assembly 100 may be strengthened by one or more reinforcements 160, and an internal mesh 165 may extend between the reinforcements 160 and an outer lining 162 of the mounting bracket assembly 100. The center portion 140 may circumscribe a hole 150c through which a torsion bar 199 may be disposed. The mounting bracket assembly 100 may be made of a lightweight material, such as plastic. The mounting bracket assembly 100 may be flexible, such that its overall shape can be changed or deformed, such as by decreasing the size of the hole 150c, thereby securing the mounting bracket assembly 100 to the torsion bar 199. As used herein, the description of a lightweight material and the description of flexibility may be by comparison with other bracket assemblies, such as those made of stiffer and heavier metallic materials. For example, the use of metal (e.g., extruded, rolled, and / or stamped metal) may require a continuous cross-section or thickness of the material. This design results in the inclusion of high-stress areas, causing the lower-stress areas to be oversized.This may result in increased weight and material. Additionally or alternatively, a metal mounting bracket assembly constructed and / or manufactured using an alternative metal processing technique may be available based on the design and elements of this description, such as a die-cast metal part. The mounting bracket assembly 100 can be used to mount a PV module (not shown) to the torsion bar 199. For example, the mounting bracket assembly 100 can be slid onto the torsion bar 199 and along its entire length to the desired location corresponding to the PV module. The PV module can then be screwed or otherwise secured to the mounting bracket assembly 100, for example, by using a PV screw or clamp through holes at either end of the upper region 110. The mounting bracket assembly 100 can also be attached to the torsion bar 199, for example, by using a bottom screw or clamp through holes at the intersection of the first and second side portions 120 / 130. The upper region 110 of the mounting bracket assembly 100 can be formed to interact with a bottom surface of a PV module (not illustrated) when the PV module is mounted to the torsion bar 199. For example, the upper region 110 can include one or more flat portions 112 (such as flat portions 112a and 112b) at either end of the upper region 110. The upper region 110 can include a lower portion 114 between the two flat portions 112 of the upper region 110. In some embodiments, the lower portion 114 can be dimensioned to accommodate a cord and / or plug associated with the PV module between the mounting bracket assembly 100 and the PV module so that electricity can be passed down the line from the PV module to a collection or transmission device, such as a battery or inverter, by means of the cord and / or plug.As the PV module is bolted to the upper region 110, the mounting bracket assembly 100 may deform because it is made of a flexible material. This deformation may reduce the depth of the lower portion 114. The first and second side portions 120 / 130 of the mounting bracket assembly 100 can extend from the ends of the upper region downwards of the torsion bar 199. The first and second side portions 120 / 130 of the mounting bracket assembly 100 can form part of the area surrounding holes 150a and 150b, respectively. Holes 150a / 150b can be triangular or generally rounded. By providing holes 150a / 150b, less material is used, potentially reducing the overall production cost of the mounting bracket assembly 100. Additionally or alternatively, holes 150a / 150b can facilitate the distribution of forces from the PV module to the torsion bar 199. For example, the first and second side portions 120 / 130 of the mounting bracket assembly 100 can help distribute forces from the PV module to the lower regions of the torsion bar 199.Figures 2 and 3 provide views of the force distribution. In some embodiments, a set of metal sleeves 182 may be arranged in or near the opening 172 between the first and second side portions 120 / 130. A bottom screw, thread, etc. (not shown) may pass through the metal sleeves 182 such that certain forces from tightening the bottom screw and holding the screw in place may act on the metal sleeves 182 instead of acting on the mounting bracket assembly 100. For example, to attach the mounting bracket assembly 100 to the torsion bar, a bottom screw through holes at the ends of the first and second side portions 120 / 130 close to each other may close or reduce the opening 172 to securely couple the mounting bracket assembly 100 to the torsion bar. Tightening the bottom screw may secure the center portion 140 around the torsion bar 199.For example, before tightening the bottom screw, the mounting bracket assembly 100 can be positioned along the entire length of the torsion bar 199 and can be easily moved along the entire length of the torsion bar 199 due to a gap between the center portion 140 and the torsion bar 199. After the mounting bracket assembly 100 is in position, the bottom screw can be tightened to immobilize the mounting bracket assembly 100 in place and around the torsion bar 199. The metal sleeves 182 can increase the longevity of the mounting bracket assembly 100 by preventing deformation or fatigue of the mounting bracket assembly material when the bottom screw is tightened or over time, since the bottom screw keeps the mounting bracket assembly 100 in a compressed state around the torsion bar 199 (e.g., under a continuous load).The metal sleeve assembly 182 can be integrated within the mounting bracket assembly 100 when the mounting bracket assembly 100 is injection molded. In some embodiments, one or more metal sleeves 184 (such as metal sleeves 184a and 184b) may be arranged at or near the ends of the upper region 110. A screw, thread, PV clamp, etc. (not shown) may pass through the metal sleeves 184 such that certain forces from tightening or holding the PV screw in place may act on the metal sleeves 184 instead of acting on the mounting bracket assembly 100. For example, to attach the PV module to the mounting bracket assembly 100, the screw and / or PV clamp may be tightened to securely couple the PV module to the mounting bracket assembly 100. The metal sleeves 184 may increase the longevity of the mounting bracket assembly 100 by preventing material fatigue of the mounting bracket assembly 100 when the PV module is coupled to the mounting bracket assembly. 100.The metal sleeves 184 can be integrated within the mounting bracket assembly 100 when the mounting bracket assembly 100 is injection molded. For example, the metal sleeves 184 can be placed inside the mold before the plastic is injected into the mold so that the metal sleeves 184 are formed within the mounting bracket assembly 100. In some embodiments, the metal sleeves 182 and / or 184 can absorb the screw tension instead of the flexible body of the mounting bracket assembly 100 that absorbs the screw tension. By absorbing the screw tension, deformation in areas of the mounting bracket assembly 100 that have bolted connections can be avoided and / or mitigated. The center portion 140 can be formed as a ring around the torsion bar 199 and can be shaped to accommodate the profile of the torsion bar 199 (e.g., circular, octagonal, hexagonal, decagonal, etc.). The center portion 140 can extend from the upper region 110 to the intersection of the first and second side portions 120 / 130. The center portion 140 can overlap and / or form a portion of the upper region 110 and / or the first and second side portions 120 / 130. The center portion 140 can provide space around at least portions of the torsion bar 199 when the opening 172 is open. This can facilitate movement of the mounting bracket assembly 100 along the entire length of the torsion bar 199.As the bottom screw is tightened to close or reduce the size of the opening 172, the center portion 140 can be constricted around the torsion bar 199 to link the mounting bracket assembly 100 to the torsion bar 199. In some embodiments, any and / or all of the upper region 110, the first and second side portions 120 / 130, and / or the central portion 140 may be strengthened with reinforcements 160. For example, the mounting bracket assembly 100 may include a thick outer lining 162 along an outer edge of the mounting bracket assembly 100, encompassing around the holes 150. The reinforcements 160 may extend between portions of the outer linings 162, such as between the outer lining 162 of the holes 150 and the outer lining 162 of the outer edge of the mounting bracket assembly 100. In some embodiments, the reinforcements 160 may create generally triangular shapes with portions of the outer lining 162. These shapes may aid in force distribution and / or structural integrity.In some embodiments, the reinforcements 160 may be of a dimension comparable to the outer sheath 162 (such as projecting the entire length of the torsion bar 199, the same length as the outer sheath 162, for example, the width of the mounting bracket assembly 100). In some embodiments, the reinforcements 160 may be of a different dimension than the outer sheath 162. For example, the wall thickness of the outer sheath 162 may be greater than the wall thickness of the reinforcements 160, and / or certain reinforcements 160 may have a greater wall thickness than the outer sheath 162. In some embodiments, the wall thickness of the outer sheath 162 may be between half and ten millimeters and the wall thickness of the reinforcements. 160 can be anywhere from half a millimeter to three millimeters. As you will see, these intervals are merely illustrative examples and are in no way limiting. In some embodiments, the reinforcements 160 may be located within the mounting support assembly 100 to follow the force flow from the PV module to the torsion bar 199. In these and other embodiments, the reinforcements 160 may include a sweep reinforcement 161 (such as reinforcements 161a and 161b) which may sweep from the outer lining 162 of the upper region 110 near a boundary between the flat portion 112 and the lower portion 114 to the outer lining 162 of the hole 150c. In some embodiments, the sweep reinforcement 161 may terminate along a face of the torsion bar 199 instead of a corner of the torsion bar 199. In some embodiments, the sweep reinforcement 161 may have a wall thickness comparable to or similar to the outer lining 162, and the remaining reinforcements 160 may have a wall thickness smaller than the outer lining 162. In some embodiments, the mounting bracket assembly 100 may include the internal web 165 spanning between the outer lining 162 and the reinforcements 160. For example, the internal web 165 may cover all or almost all of the region between the outer lining 162 of the outer edge of the mounting bracket assembly 100 and the outer lining 162 of the holes 150. In some embodiments, there may be gaps or variations in the internal web 165 for certain components. For example, the internal web 165 may be curved to accommodate the metal sleeves 182 and the bottom screw. The internal web 165 may bear at least a portion of the shear stress experienced by the mounting bracket assembly 100 and may reduce the deflection of the mounting bracket assembly 100.Additionally, the internal 165 network can facilitate a more simplified production process since the injection mold can have an easier path for the plastic material to fill the mold than would be the case without the internal 165 network. In some embodiments, the injection-molded plastic material may include one or more additives. The plastic may include any polymer of sufficient strength to withstand the PV modulus. For example, the plastic may include acrylonitrile butadiene styrene (ABS), poly(methyl methacrylate) (acrylic or PMMA), epoxy, polyamide (nylon or PA), polyethylene (PE), polypropylene (PP), and so on. In some embodiments, the injection-molded plastic may include a reinforcing agent, such as glass, fiberglass, carbon fiber, glass beads, and so on. In some embodiments, the reinforcing agent may have a weight range that can start or end at any of 5%, 10%, 15%, 20%, 25%, 30%, 35%, 40%, 45%, 50%, 55%, 60%, 65%, and 70%. For example, the booster agent can be between 10% and 60% booster agent, between 15% and 50% booster agent, or between 25% and 45% booster agent.In some forms, the reinforcing agent may include 25% by weight of the material. In some forms, injection-molded plastic may include one or more UV-resistant filler materials, absorbers, or additives. For example, carbon black may be included as the reinforcing agent and may also act as the UV-absorbing / resistant filler material. Alternatively, carbon black may be included as the UV absorber, and glass or fibers may be used as the reinforcing agent. Other examples of UV-resistant additives may include rutilotitanium oxide, hydroxybenzophenone, hydroxyphenylbenzotriazole, oxanilides, benzophenones, benzotriazoles, nickel, hindered amine light stabilizers (HALS) (such as those with a 2,2,6,6-tetramethylpiperidine ring structure), or any combination thereof.For example, carbon black and a HALS can be combined as the UV radiation-resistant filler material. Modifications, additions, or omissions may be made to Figure 1 in this description. For example, changes as described herein may be made based on the knowledge of a person of ordinary experience in the field. For instance, the mounting bracket assembly 100 may take different forms, with varying numbers and orientations of reinforcements, and so on. As another example, the size of the mounting bracket assembly 100 may be extended so that the upper region 110 is larger to accommodate different sizes of PV modules, and this may include a corresponding change in the length / angle of the first and second side portions 120 / 130. Figure 2 illustrates a force distribution in one embodiment according to the present description compared to a traditional mounting bracket. Figure 2 illustrates a mounting bracket assembly 100 consistent with at least one embodiment of the present description. As illustrated in Figure 2, when wind, snow, or other factors exert forces on a PV module attached via the mounting bracket assembly 100 to the torsion bar 199, the associated forces are distributed circumferentially around the torsion bar 199 (as illustrated by the red / black arrows). For example, the sweep braces 161, the first side portion 120, and / or the second side portion 130 can facilitate the distribution of forces (as illustrated by the blue / gray arrows) throughout the mounting bracket assembly 100 such that the forces are applied to the torsion bar 199 at multiple locations around it. In contrast, when wind, snow, or other factors exert forces on a PV module attached via a typical mounting bracket, most of these forces are applied directly to the top surface of the torsion bar. This arrangement can create points of failure and increased material deformation in the mounting bracket, torsion bar, and / or PV module at the location where the forces are applied. Additionally, this arrangement can result in the use of excess material throughout the rest of the typical mounting bracket to provide sufficient material at the location where the forces are applied, resulting in a costly component. Figure 3 is a front perspective view of the mounting bracket assembly 100 from Figure 1 with forces applied to the mounting bracket assembly and color representing different stresses experienced by the mounting bracket assembly 100. Lighter colors (e.g., green, yellow) / lighter shades of gray indicate greater stress, while darker colors (e.g., blue) / darker shades of gray indicate less stress on the mounting bracket assembly 100. As illustrated in Figure 3, there are high-stress points at holes 150b / c near where the first and second side portions 120 / 130 branch off away from the upper region 110. There are also high-stress regions in the lower portion 114. Additional high-stress points are located near the vertices of the torsion bar 199. Low-stress points are located near the opening 172, along the flat portions 112, and along the sweep reinforcements 161. Figure 4A is a front view of the mounting bracket assembly of Figures 1 and 4B is a cropped view of the mounting bracket assembly of Figure 1. Figure 4A includes a solid red (or black) line with arrows indicating the direction of the cropped view of Figure 4B. As illustrated in Figure 4B, the mounting bracket assembly 100 includes the internal mesh 165. Figure 4B also illustrates a comparison of various wall thicknesses for different reinforcements 160 and outer linings 162. For example, the outer lining 162 may have a wall thickness that is similar or comparable to the internal mesh 165. Some reinforcements 160, such as the reinforcement 160a, may have a second wall thickness that is greater than the first wall thickness and some 160 reinforcements, such as reinforcement 160b, may have a third wall thickness that is less than the first wall thickness. Figure 5 is a front view of the mounting bracket assembly 100 from Figure 1 with a conductive component 510. One feature of mounting brackets is that they frequently provide an electrical ground connection from the PV module to the torsion bar 199. When a conventional metal mounting bracket is used, because the bracket itself is metallic, it can provide the ground connection between the torsion bar and the PV module. However, if it is made of a plastic material, the mounting bracket assembly 100 may include the conductive component 510. The conductive component 510 can be a tape, wire, or other component made of an electrically conductive material and arranged in such a way that at least a first portion of the conductive component 510 is exposed within the hole 150c, and a second portion of the conductive component 510 is exposed in a portion of the upper region 110 that interacts with the PV module, such as the flat portions 112. By including the first and second exposed portions, an electrical connection can be made between the torsion bar 199 and the PV module in such a way that the PV module can be grounded to the torsion bar 199. In some embodiments, the conductive component 510 may be replaced by an external clip or other element to provide the grounding connection between the PV module and / or the connecting hardware and the torsion bar 199. For example, the clip may have a metallic component that interacts with the PV module frame along the flat portion 112 on top of the mounting bracket assembly 100. There may also be a conductive connection between the clip and a screw that couples the PV module to the mounting bracket assembly 100 (such as one or more of the screws that pass through the optional metal sleeves 184). Alternatively, there may be an additional conductive connection between the screw that couples the PV module to the mounting bracket assembly and the screw that secures the mounting bracket assembly 100 to the torsion bar 199, and / or the torsion bar 199.For example, the external clamp may have a wire that is directed to interact with a screw passing through the metal sleeves 184a and 184b, and then directed downwards to interact with a screw passing through the metal sleeves 182. A metal fin or extension of the wire may proceed from the screw passing through the metal sleeves 182 to interact with the torsion bar 199. Additionally or alternatively, any other arrangement may be used to provide electrical grounding communication between the PV module and / or any connecting hardware and the torsion bar 199. In some embodiments, the conductive component 510 may be positioned within an injection mold before the plastic is injected into the mold. When the plastic is injected into the mold, the conductive component 510 may be formed with and become part of the mounting bracket assembly 100. In some embodiments, the location for the exposed portions and / or the routing of the conductive component 510 may be selected to be in low-stress locations within the mounting bracket assembly 100, such as on the faces of the torsion bar 199 instead of at the corners of the torsion bar 199, and on the flat portions 112. Figure 6 illustrates another exemplary embodiment of a mounting bracket assembly 600 according to the present description. The mounting bracket assembly 600 may be similar or comparable to the mounting bracket assembly 100 of Figure 1. However, instead of including a single unitary body, the mounting bracket assembly 600 may include one or more modular components, such as a first modular component 620 and a second modular component 630, which may be coupled to a central component 610 when installing or preparing to install a PV module. In some embodiments, the mounting bracket assembly 600 may be made of a flexible material similar or comparable to that of the mounting bracket assembly 100 of Figure 1.Due to the low cost and manufacturing flexibility of this material, the 600 mounting bracket assembly can be a modular design in which a central component 610 surrounds the 199 torsion bar, and the 620 / 630 modular components can be rigidly coupled to the central component 610 to create the complete 600 mounting bracket assembly during or prior to installation. This allows for customized shapes, dimensions, and other features of the 600 mounting bracket assembly. The center component 610 can be formed and configured to surround a torsion bar 199 in a manner similar or comparable to the center portion 140 of the mounting bracket assembly 100 in Figure 1. For example, the center component 610 can include an opening 672 that facilitates clearance between the center component 610 and the torsion bar 199 when the mounting bracket assembly 600 is positioned along the torsion bar 199 during installation. After positioning the center component 610 in the desired location along the torsion bar 199, a bottom screw can be tightened to close or reduce the opening 672 in a manner similar or comparable to closing the opening 172. Modular components 620 / 630 may include a length of material that operates in a manner similar or comparable to a combination of the flat portions 112 of the upper region 110 and the side portions 120 / 130 of the mounting support assembly 100 in Figure 1. For example, modular components 620 / 630 may include a top surface against which a PV module is mounted and a reinforcing structure to support the forces and stresses experienced by the mounting support assembly 600 when the PV module is fixedly coupled to the torsion bar 199. In some configurations, any of the central component 610 and / or the modular components 620 / 630 may include reinforcement or strengthening elements, such as reinforcements, internal networks, outer linings, metal sleeves, etc. When installing or preparing for installation the mounting bracket assembly 600, the modular components 620 / 630 can be combined with the central component 610. For example, the first modular component 620 can be rigidly coupled to the central component 610 at an interfacial zone 640a, and the second modular component 630 can be rigidly coupled to the central component 610 at an interfacial zone 640b. The interfacial zones 640a / 640b can include any interfacial zone of immobilization between components, such as mechanical fastening (e.g., by means of screws, threads, interlocking teeth, etc.), chemical fastening (e.g., chemically bonding the two components, an adhesive, etc.), thermal fastening (e.g., fusing the two components together), etc. By using the 620 / 630 modular components, a custom 600 mounting bracket assembly can be used with specific lengths tailored to the region or location where the 600 mounting bracket assembly is installed. For example, if a PV module is installed using the 600 mounting bracket assembly on a canyon base, it may be known that strong winds emanate from the canyon, but the wind forces in all directions may be relatively normal. To cope with the increased wind stress from one direction, one of the 620 / 630 modular components can be longer than the other. For example, as illustrated in Figure 6, the first 620 modular component has a length x that is shorter than a length y of the second 630 modular component.As another example, PV modules on the periphery of a solar field can be installed with longer 620 / 630 modular components because these modules may experience stronger winds without the protection afforded to the rest of the field. Furthermore, PV modules of varying dimensions, weights, and other characteristics can be easily accommodated by selecting modular components of different lengths when installing the 600 mounting bracket assembly. Modifications, additions, or omissions may be made to Figure 6 in this description. For example, changes as described herein may be made based on the knowledge of a person with ordinary experience in the field. For instance, the 600 mounting bracket assembly may take different forms, with any number and orientation of reinforcements, and so on. Figures 7A-7E illustrate various views of possible connection mechanisms associated with a mounting bracket assembly according to the present description. For example, the devices in Figures 7A-7E illustrate various tool-less locking mechanisms that can be used to replace certain screws or other elements to lock certain connections in place when a mounting bracket assembly is attached to a torsion bar and / or a PV module is attached to a mounting bracket assembly. The various connections may include a 710 cam (such as cams 710a, 710b, 710c, and / or 710d) and a 720 post (such as posts 720a, 720b, 720c, and / or 720d). As the cam 710 rotates around the post 720, the thickness of the cam 710 increases, either attracting a surface to which the post 720 adheres closer to the cam 710 or forcing a surface through which the post 720 projects further away from the cam 710, and / or variations thereof. In some embodiments, the 710 cams may include a locking element such that after the 710 cam has been rotated a certain amount, its surface includes a protrusion beyond which the 720 post must pass to rotate again, and which can lock the 710 cam in place. For example, the 710a and 710b cams illustrate this locking element. The various toolless locking mechanisms can be used in any of a variety of locations and for any purpose consistent with the present description and / or consistent with any mounting bracket. For example, the toolless locking mechanisms can be used to lock the center portion 140 of Figure 1 to the torsion bar 199, thereby closing or reducing the opening 172. As another example, the toolless locking mechanisms can be used in the location of the optional metal sleeves 184 to couple the PV module to the mounting bracket assembly 100 of Figure 1. As a further example, for mounting bracket assemblies that use a single screw both to fasten the PV module to the mounting bracket assembly and to link the mounting bracket assembly to the torsion bar (such as those described in U.S. Patent Publications Nos.2017 / 0359017; 2018 / 0254740; and 2018 / 0348331; and U.S. Patents Nos. 8,459,249; 9,281,778; 9,581,678; 9,631,840; 10,042,030; and 10,069,455; each of which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety), a 710 cam and a 720 post (such as 710d / 720d) may be used. By way of further example, the toolless locking mechanism may be used to tension a cable where the cable may be used to couple the PV module to the mounting bracket assembly, couple the mounting bracket assembly to the torsion bar, and so forth. In these and other configurations, the amount of force required to rotate the cam 710 around the post 720 to hold the component in place can be specifically designed based on the intended use of the tool-less locking mechanism. For example, certain screws may have a specified torque to which they must be tightened during installation. The tool-less immobilization mechanism can be projected to have a corresponding design such that the same or a comparable amount of force is applied when the cam 710 is rotated around the post 720. The embodiment illustrated in Figure 7A may include two components of the center portion and / or the housing around the torsion bar that slide against each other, allowing a clasp on one side to fold over the other to engage with the corresponding element on the other component. For example, cam 710a may rotate around post 720a on a component that slides past the component on which cam 710a is mounted. As illustrated in Figure 7E, a clamp 715e and a screw 725e can be used to facilitate securing the element in place. For example, an enclosure around the torsion bar 199 can include a female portion to receive the clamp 715e, into which the clamp 715e can be pressed by hand and / or without tools. After the clamp 715e is pressed into place, the element can be positioned in a desired location, and the screw 720e can be tightened to bring the two sides of the enclosure even closer together, thereby more securely attaching the enclosure to the torsion bar 199. Modifications, additions, or omissions may be made to Figures 7A-7E without departing from the scope of this description. For example, changes may be made as described herein based on the knowledge of a person of ordinary experience in the field. For example, any style or type of cam locking mechanism or other toolless locking element may be used. Figures 8A-8C illustrate various views of an additional exemplary embodiment of a mounting bracket assembly 800a according to the present description. Figure 8A illustrates a perspective view of the mounting bracket assembly 800a. Figure 8B illustrates an end view of the mounting bracket assembly 800a. Figure 8C illustrates an end view similar to that shown in Figure 8B but with PV modules 898a and 898b coupled to a torsion bar 199 by means of the mounting bracket assembly 800a. The mounting bracket assembly 800a may include a top region 810 for liaising with the PV modules and first and second side regions 820 and 830. The mounting bracket assembly 800a may include a ridge 860 along the top region 810. The ridge 860 may provide additional structural support and stiffness to the mounting bracket assembly 800a.Additionally, the ridge 860 can permit a hole 850a along the upper region 810 near an opening 850b for a torsion bar (not illustrated), despite leaving a narrow neck 875 of material between the hole 850a and the opening 850b. For example, the ridge 860 can provide sufficient structural integrity and strength to the mounting bracket assembly 800a to resist forces due to wind, etc., from the attached PV module 898 without material failure at the narrow neck 875. In contrast, in a typical mounting bracket assembly without the ridge 860 (for example, where the hole 850a is open at the top to the PV module 898), the mounting bracket assembly may be more susceptible to material failure at the narrow neck 875 when under tension. In some embodiments, the 800a mounting bracket assembly may be made from a solid piece of metal processed to include the shape, openings, holes, and curves illustrated in Figures 8A-8C. For example, a sheet of metal may be rolled, stamped, or otherwise processed into the shape illustrated in Figures 8A-8C. As illustrated in Figures 8A-8C, the ridge 860 can be formed to project upward from two or more shelves 812 (such as shelves 812a and 812b) against which the PV module 898 is placed, and the ridge 860 can be arranged between two adjacent PV modules 898. The ridge The ridge 860 can be any height up to the height of the PV module frame, or even taller if the opening 862 is sufficiently wide at the top to accommodate the threaded clamp component 872. The ridge 860 can have any profile. For example, while illustrated with straight sides and a curved top, the ridge 860 can include a flat top, an angled top, or any other shape. As another example, the ridge 860 can taper along all or part of its height and / or can come to a point. As a further example, the ridge 860 can include one or more separate sheets of material pressed together, rather than a contiguous surface. Examples of other profiles are illustrated in Figures 8D and 8E. In these and other embodiments, the separate sheets can be joined together or not by welding, adhesive, etc. When the mounting bracket assembly 800a is attached to the torsion bar 199, the mounting bracket assembly 800a can be positioned along the torsion bar 199 in the desired position relative to the torsion bar 199 to provide space for the PV modules 898a and 898b. The opening 850b can be formed to match at least a portion of a profile of the torsion bar 199. Screws, clamps, U-bolts, etc., can be used to securely attach the mounting bracket assembly 800a to the torsion bar 199. For example, a U-bolt can be passed around the torsion bar 199 and attached to the mounting bracket assembly 800a via holes 852a and 852b, while the torsion bar 199 is positioned within the opening 850b. In some modalities, the 850b opening may include a lining or protrusion of material that interacts with the 199 torsion bar. When PV 898 modules are attached to the 800a mounting bracket assembly, module locating tabs 842 / 843 can be used to engage with holes in the bottom of the PV 898 modules. For example, PV 898 modules may have holes in their bottom through which screws can pass to attach them to racks during installation. Module locating tabs 842 / 843 can be positioned along the 800 mounting bracket assembly to project into these mounting holes, thus holding the PV 898 modules in place relative to the 800a mounting bracket assembly as the PV 898 modules are placed on shelves 812a and / or 812b. Module locating tabs 842a and 842b can be spaced a specific distance apart, corresponding to the PV 898 module being installed.For example, the module locator fins 842a and 842b may be spaced 400 mm, 600 mm, 800 mm, 1000 mm, etc., apart, corresponding to the spatial differences for mounting holes on different types, shapes, styles, and / or brands of PV modules. In some embodiments, the module locator fins 842a and 842b may be stamped onto the mounting bracket assembly 800a. Alternatively, the module locator fins 842a and 842b may be an accessory that is attached to the mounting bracket assembly 800a after the core component of the mounting bracket assembly 800a has been formed, such as a plastic fin that is snapped onto the metal core component. When PV modules 898 are attached to the mounting bracket assembly 800a, a clamp 870 can be used to press the PV modules 898a / b against the mounting bracket assembly 800a. For example, the clamp 870 may include a screw passing through an opening 862 (such as openings 862a / 862b) in the ridge 860. The clamp 870 may further include a threaded clamp component 872 that presses against the top surface of PV modules 898a and 898b simultaneously, and a washer and / or nut disposed within the mounting bracket assembly 800a, although any fastening mechanism, such as a screw head, the locking elements illustrated in Figures 7A-7E, etc., may be used.As illustrated in Figure 8C, clamp 870 secures PV modules 898a and 898b between the upper region 810 of the mounting bracket assembly 800 and the threaded clamp component 872 with the ridge 860 projecting upward between PV modules 898a and 898b. Module locating fins 842 and 843 project upward into PV modules 898a and 898b. In some embodiments, clamp 870 may include fins or spacers shaped to project downward between the two adjacent PV modules 898a and / or 898b. With PV modules 898a and 898b attached, a plug 896 and a rope 897 can pass through hole 850a to carry electricity generated in PV modules 898a and / or 898b. This allows rope 882 to run generally parallel to the torsion bar 199 to which the mounting bracket assembly 800 is attached. Figures 8D and 8E illustrate several views of an additional exemplary embodiment of an 800b mounting bracket assembly according to the present description. The 800b mounting bracket assembly may be similar or comparable to the 800a mounting bracket assembly illustrated in Figures 8A-8C. The mounting bracket assembly 800b may include an opening 853 formed to accommodate a torsion bar when the mounting bracket assembly 800b is attached to the torsion bar. Alternatively, the mounting bracket assembly 800b may include a frame 856 for attaching the mounting bracket assembly 800b to the torsion bar. For example, two posts may project through the body of the mounting bracket assembly 800b through which two arms may turn or rotate to enclose the torsion bar. Alternatively, a screw or other fastener (such as the toolless fasteners illustrated in Figures 7A-7E) may extend between the two arms at the bottom of the opening 853 for the torsion bar. In some embodiments, the body of the mounting bracket assembly 800b may include one or more holes 851 (such as holes 851a and / or 851b) that may allow wires and / or plugs to pass through beyond the mounting bracket assembly 800b. In some embodiments, a plastic or composite insert 854 (such as inserts 854a and / or 854b) may be inserted into the holes 851 to prevent damage or chafing of the wires or plugs against the body of the mounting bracket assembly 800b. In some embodiments, the 800b mounting bracket assembly may include one or more 841 holes to which an accessory or other element can be added for the 6. Body of the mounting bracket assembly 800b. For example, PV module locating fins can be attached to the mounting bracket assembly 800b via holes 841. The mounting bracket assembly 800b may include a ridge 861 that may be similar or comparable to the ridge 860 of Figures 8A-8C. For example, the ridge 861 may provide structural integrity and reinforcement to the mounting bracket assembly 800b. Additionally, the ridge 861 may project upward between two adjacent PV modules. In some embodiments, the mounting bracket assembly 800b may include a grounding clip 876. The grounding clip 876 may be made of an electrically conductive material and may be shaped and positioned to make contact with a PV module rack, span the ridge 861, and make contact with an adjacent PV module rack. By doing so, the two adjacent PV module racks can be in electrical communication, thereby providing a consistent ground connection between them. In some embodiments, the grounding clip may include one or more elements (e.g., teeth, bristles, protrusions, blades, etc.) configured to cut into an anodized surface to provide a consistent and / or solid electrical connection between the grounding clip 876 and the PV module rack. In some embodiments, the mounting bracket assembly 800b may include a clamp component 873 that can be configured to provide a downward force against the PV module racks to trap them against the mounting bracket assembly 800b. For example, a screw may pass through the clamp component 873, the grounding clamp 876, and the ridge such that when the screw is tightened, it pulls the top of the clamp component 873 downward toward the mounting bracket assembly 800b. As the clamp component 873 is pulled downward, it traps the PV module rack. Figure 8E illustrates another view of the mounting bracket assembly 800b from Figure 8D. For example, as illustrated in Figure 8E, the ridge 861 may include a profile that extends upward from the mounting bracket assembly 800b and starts narrow and widens into a bulbous shape at the top of the ridge 861. Modifications, additions, or omissions may be made to Figures 8A-8E in this description. For example, the changes described herein may be made according to the knowledge of a person of ordinary experience in the field. For instance, the mounting bracket assembly 800 may be of various lengths with the module locating fins 842 and 843 in different positions. In these and other variations, the openings 862 in the ridge 860 may or may not be in different locations so that the threaded clamp component 872 can engage anywhere along the top surface of the PV modules 898. As another example, the profile of the opening 850b may be any shape to accommodate the torsion bar profile 199. Figures 9A and 9B illustrate an example of a further embodiment of a mounting bracket assembly 900 according to the present description. Figure 9A illustrates a front view of the mounting bracket assembly 900, and Figure 9B illustrates a perspective view of the mounting bracket assembly 900 with a PV module 898 attached to the mounting bracket assembly 900 and a torsion bar 199. Figure 9B also illustrates a plug 896 and a cord 897 associated with the PV module 898. The mounting bracket assembly 900 may use a U-bolt 930 or other fastening device to attach the mounting bracket assembly 900 to the torsion bar 199. For example, the U-bolt 930 may enclose a hole 950 through which the torsion bar can pass. As illustrated in Figure 9A, the mounting bracket assembly 900 may include two arms 915a and 915b for liaising with the PV module 898. For example, the PV module 898 may be bolted to arms 915a and 915b. Between arms 915a / b are two depressions 925a / 925b and a peak 905. The peak 905 may be lower than the frame of the PV module 898 (for example, as illustrated in Figure 9B). For example, the arms 915a / b may be at a Height 1 that is reached by the frame of the PV module 898, the peak 905 may be at a Height 2, and the depressions 925 may be at a Height 3. The difference between Height 1 and Height 2 may be sized to have space for the plug 897 but may not be large enough to have space for the plug 896. The difference between Height 1 and Height 3 may be sized to have space for the string 897 and / or the plug 896.When installing and / or otherwise working with rope 897 and / or plug 896, plug 896 can run parallel to torsion bar 199 beyond the mounting bracket assembly 900 through one of the depressions 925a / b, while rope 897 can still be fitted between peak 905 and the frame of PV module 898. By doing this, excess material and / or slack in rope 897 can be reduced while allowing installation, replacement, etc., without removing PV module 898 from the mounting bracket assembly 900 because the depression 925 is sized to allow plug 896 to pass through it. By using peak 905, the portion of the mounting bracket assembly 900 that experiences some of the highest stress can have increased material thickness. For example, when a U-bolt such as U-bolt 930 is used to attach the PV module 898 to the torsion bar 199 via the mounting bracket assembly 900, much of the stress is in the region of peak 905. By using peak 905 and depressions 925, the thread 897 can still extend beyond the mounting bracket assembly 900 while having increased thickness in the mounting bracket assembly 900 where it experiences the highest stress (near the top of the torsion bar 199), and allowing the plug 896 to still extend beyond the mounting bracket assembly 900 parallel to the torsion bar 199. In some embodiments, the concept of the 905 peak and 925 depressions can be applied to any embodiment of the present description, or any other embodiment of mounting bracket assemblies. For example, the 100 mounting bracket assembly of Figures 1, 2, 3, 4A-4B, and 5 may include a profile in which the central portion extends upward into a peak in the lower portion where a string can be fitted between the peak and the PV module frame, and may leave depressions on either side of the peak where a plug can also be fitted. By way of example, the 600 mounting bracket assembly of Figure 6 may include a peak associated with the central portion through which a string can be fitted, with depressions in the interfacial areas 640 or in the modular components 620 / 630 through which a plug can also be fitted.As a further example, hole 850a can be formed with a peak and depressions, which effectively increase the material in the narrow neck 875. Figures 10A and 10B illustrate several views of an additional exemplary modality of a 1000 mounting bracket assembly according to the present description. The mounting bracket assembly 1000 may be similar or comparable to the mounting bracket assembly 100 of Figure 1. For example, the mounting bracket assembly 1000 may be made of a flexible material and may provide one or more of the benefits and / or features described with reference to the mounting bracket assembly 100 of Figure 1. The mounting bracket assembly 1000 may include top portions 1010a and 1010b on either side of the mounting bracket assembly 1000, a first side portion 1020, a second side portion 1030, and a center portion 1040. The top regions 1010a / 101b, the first side portion 1020, the second side portion 1030, and / or the center portion 1040 may create one or more holes 1050c in the mounting bracket assembly 1000.The mounting bracket assembly 1000 can be strengthened by one or more reinforcements 1060, and an internal web 1065 can extend between the reinforcements 1060 and an outer lining 1062 of the mounting bracket assembly 1000 (such as outer linings 1062a, 1062b, 1062, and / or 1062d). The central portion 1040 can enclose the hole 150c through which a torsion bar 199 can be arranged. In some embodiments, the mounting bracket assembly 1000 is changed or deformed, such as by decreasing the size of a hole 1050c, thereby securing the mounting bracket assembly 1000 to a torsion bar. For example, the mounting bracket assembly 1000 may include a lug clamp 1085 at either end. The lug clamp 1085 may include one or more lugs 1087 above the lug clamp 1085, which can apply a downward force against a PV module to trap the PV module against a flat portion 1012 (such as the flat portions 1012a and / or 1012b) to secure the PV module in place. In operation, to cause the ear clamp 1085 to move downwards, an individual screw 1088 can be tightened. As the screw 1088 is tightened, an inclined surface 1082 of the ear clamp 1085 can interact with an inclined surface 1022 of the side portion 1020. As the screw is tightened, the ear clamp 1085 slides downwards to an outer surface of the side portion 1020, which consequently lowers the ear clamp 1085 relative to the flat portion 1012a against which the PV module can be positioned, thereby trapping the PV module between the ears 1087 of the ear clamp 1085 and the flat portion 1012a.While described with reference to one end of the mounting bracket assembly 1000, it will be appreciated that a second ear clamp can be arranged at the opposite end of the mounting bracket assembly 1000 in such a way that as the single screw 1088 is tightened, both ear clamps can be pulled down simultaneously. In some embodiments, as the single screw 1088 is tightened, it also causes a deformation of the mounting bracket assembly 1000 such that the upper portions 1010a and 1010b are drawn toward each other, reducing an opening 1013 between the upper portions 1012a and 1012b. By reducing the opening 1013, the effective circumference of the hole 1050c can be reduced, causing the mounting bracket assembly 1000 to be tightened around a torsion bar that projects through the hole 1050c. In these and other embodiments, tightening the single screw can thus both secure the mounting bracket assembly 1000 around the torsion bar and pull both ear clamps 1085 downward to clamp the PV modules against the mounting bracket assembly 1000. In some embodiments, the mounting bracket assembly 1000 may include a grounding plate 1016. For example, the grounding plate 1016 may extend from the upper surface 1012b along the upper portion 1010b and into the hole 1050c. By doing so, the PV module frame can be electrically coupled to the torsion bar. In these and other embodiments, the grounding plate 1016 may include one or more elements (for example, bristles, hooks, teeth, blades, protrusions, etc.) for biting through an anodized coating of the PV module frame and / or the torsion bar. In some embodiments, the grounding plate 1016 may be cast or molded into the mounting bracket assembly 1000 instead of being arranged along its surface. In addition to hole 1050c, the 1000 mounting bracket assembly may include other holes such as holes 1050a and 1050b to provide a reduction in material requirements and / or a better distribution of forces. For example, holes 1050a and / or 1050b may take a generally triangular shape after the top portion 1010a, the side portion 1020, and the center portion 1040. Modifications, additions, or omissions may be made to Figures 10A and 10B of this description. For example, changes as described herein may be made based on the knowledge of a person of ordinary experience in the field. For example, the 1000 mounting bracket assembly may be of various lengths. Additionally or alternatively, the 1000 mounting bracket assembly may include module locating tabs. The various elements illustrated in the figures may be, but are not necessarily, drawn to scale. The illustrations presented in this description are not intended to be actual views of any particular apparatus (e.g., device, system, etc.) or method, but are merely idealized representations used to describe various aspects of the description. Consequently, the dimensions of the various elements may be arbitrarily enlarged or reduced for clarity. In addition, some figures may be simplified for clarity. Thus, the figures may not represent all the components of a given apparatus (e.g., device) or all the operations of a particular method. The terms used in the present description and especially in the appended claims (e.g., the bodies of the appended claims) are generally proposed as open terms (e.g., the term "includes" should be interpreted as including, but not limited to, the term "has" should be interpreted as having at least, the term "includes" should be interpreted as including, but not limited to, among others). It is generally intended that the relative terms used in this description, and especially in the appended claims (e.g., the bodies of the appended claims), be within manufacturing tolerances and / or within the scope reasonably understood by a person skilled in the field. For example, if two components are identified as being the same size, there may be variations consistent with manufacturing variations. Terms describing approximately, similar, substantially, or other terms designating similarity may be expressed within ten percent of the comparative value. For example, two components that are approximately the same size would be understood to be within ten percent of each other in size. Additionally, if a specific number of introduced claim statements is intended, this intention must be explicitly stated in the claim, and in the absence of such a statement, this intention is not present. For example, to aid understanding, the following appended claims may contain the use of introductory phrases at least once and one or more times to introduce claim statements. Furthermore, even if a specific number of claims is explicitly intended, those skilled in the field will recognize that this statement should be interpreted as meaning at least the stated number (for example, the simple statement of two claims, without any other modifiers, means at least two claims, or two or more claims). Additionally, where a convention analogous to at least one of A, B, and C, etc., or one or more of A, B, and C, etc., is used, this construction is generally intended to include A alone, B alone, C alone, A and B together, A and C together, B and C together, or A, B, and C together, etc. Furthermore, it should be understood that any disjunctive word or phrase presenting two or more alternative terms, whether in the description, claims, or figures, includes the possibility of including one of the terms, either of the terms, or both terms. For example, the phrase A or B should be understood to include the possibilities of A or B or A and B. However, the use of these phrases should not be interpreted to imply that the introduction of a claim statement by the indefinite articles a or an limits any particular claim containing this introduced claim statement to modalities containing only this statement, even when the same claim includes the introductory phrases one or more or at least one and indefinite articles such as a or an (for example, a and / or an should be interpreted to mean at least one or one or more); the same applies to the use of definite articles used to introduce claim statements. Additionally, the use of the terms first, second, third, etc., in this document is not necessarily intended to denote a specific order or number of items. Generally, the terms first, second, third, etc., are used to distinguish between different items as generic identifiers. In the absence of evidence that the terms first, second, third, etc., denote a specific order, they should not be interpreted as implying such an order. Additionally, in the absence of a demonstration that the terms first, second, third, etc., connote a specific number of elements, these terms should not be understood to connote a specific number of elements. For example, a first device can be described as having a first side, and a second device can be described as having a second side. The use of the term second side with respect to the second device may be to distinguish this side of the second device from the first side of the first device and does not connote that the second device has two sides. All examples and conditional vocabulary presented herein are provided for pedagogical purposes to aid the reader in understanding the invention and the concepts contributed by the inventor to advance the technique, and should be interpreted as being without limitation to the specific examples and conditions presented. Although the modalities of this description have been described in detail, it should be understood that various changes, substitutions, and alterations may be made to it without departing from the spirit and scope of this description. It is hereby stated that, as of this date, the best method known to the applicant for putting the aforementioned invention into practice is the one that is clear from the present description of the invention.

Claims

1. A mounting bracket assembly, characterized in that it comprises: an upper region with flat portions at either end that interacts with a photovoltaic (PV) module and a lower portion between the flat portions; a central portion that at least partially surrounds a hole formed to accommodate a torsion bar; side portions that extend from the ends of the upper region down to the bottom of the hole formed to accommodate the torsion bar; a first outer sleeve along the periphery of the mounting bracket assembly; a second outer sleeve along the hole formed to accommodate the torsion bar; and a plurality of reinforcements that extend between the first outer sleeve and the second outer sleeve.

2. The mounting bracket assembly according to claim 1, characterized in that it further comprises first metal sleeves within the flat portions, formed and positioned to have space for screws to attach the mounting bracket assembly to the PV module.

3. The mounting bracket assembly according to claim 1, characterized in that it further comprises a second metal sleeve within the side portions, formed and positioned to have space for at least one bottom screw for coupling the mounting bracket assembly to the torsion bar.

4. The mounting bracket assembly according to claim 1, characterized in that it further comprises a conductive component within the mounting bracket assembly that is exposed along at least one of the flat surfaces and is exposed within the hole formed to accommodate the torsion bar and is in electrical communication therewith.

5. The mounting bracket assembly according to claim 1, characterized in that the first outer lining and the second outer lining are a continuous lining that is located in an opening in the central portion.

6. The mounting bracket assembly according to claim 1, characterized in that it further comprises a tool-less fastener disposed at a junction of the side portions below the central portion.

7. The mounting bracket assembly according to claim 6, characterized in that the tool-less fastener includes a post and cam locking mechanism.

8. The mounting bracket assembly according to claim 1, characterized in that it further comprises: an individual screw; a first lug clamp comprising: a first inclined surface, a first inclined surface formed to interact with an outer surface of a first lateral portion of the lateral portions near the upper region; a first upper lug, formed and positioned to provide downward force against the PV module; and a first receiving region through which the individual screw passes;and a second lug clamp comprising: a second inclined surface, the second inclined surface being formed to interact with an outer surface of a second side portion of the side portions near the upper region such that as the single screw is tightened, the first and second lug clamps slide downwards along the first and second side portions; a second upper lug, formed to provide downward force against the PV module as the single screw is tightened; and a second receiving region through which the single screw passes.

9. The mounting bracket assembly according to claim 1, characterized in that it further comprises generally triangular openings in the material between the upper region, the side portions, and the central portion.

10. The mounting bracket assembly according to claim 1, characterized in that a first side of the upper region extends further from the central portion than a second side of the upper region such that the first side and the second side of the upper region are asymmetrical.

11. A mounting bracket assembly, characterized in that it comprises: a body comprising: an opening in the body formed to interact with and coincide with at least a portion of a torsion bar profile such that the torsion bar extends at least halfway into the body 6 4 when disposed within the opening and is flush with at least a portion of the opening; a ridge along the upper edge of the body; and two shelves from which the ridge extends upwards, the two shelves being disposed on either side of the body and formed to have photovoltaic (PV) modules placed thereon while the PV modules abut the ridge.

12. The mounting bracket assembly according to claim 11, characterized in that it further comprises a pair of module locating fins extending outwards from the shelves and projecting upwards and positioned to interact with a hole or opening in a PV module frame.

13. The mounting bracket assembly according to claim 12, characterized in that the pair of module locating fins are spaced a standardized distance corresponding to the distance between the holes in the PV module, the spacing including one of 400 mm, 600 mm, 800 mm or 1000 mm.

14. The mounting bracket assembly according to claim 12, characterized in that the pair of module locating fins includes an accessory that is attached to the mounting bracket assembly.

15. The mounting bracket assembly according to claim 12, characterized in that the pair of module locating fins are formed as part of the body.

16. The mounting bracket assembly according to claim 11, characterized in that the ridge includes a profile extending directly upwards from the two shelves.

17. The mounting bracket assembly according to claim 11, characterized in that it further comprises a hole in the body above the receiving portion dimensioned to allow wires to pass through it.

18. The mounting bracket assembly according to claim 17, characterized in that it further comprises a projection on one or both of an edge of the opening or an edge of the hole.

19. The mounting bracket assembly according to claim 11, characterized in that the body is made from a single sheet of metal.

20. A system, characterized in that it comprises: a plurality of photovoltaic (PV) modules arranged along a plurality of rows and coupled to a torsion bar for each of the plurality of rows, each of the plurality of rows being movable by means of a motor to adjust an orientation of the torsion bar and consequently an orientation of a given row of the plurality of rows of PV modules; and a plurality of mounting support assemblies for coupling the PV modules to the torsion bars, each of the plurality of mounting support assemblies comprising: an upper region with flat portions at any end that interact with the PV module and a lower portion between the flat portions; a central portion that at least partially surrounds a hole formed to accommodate the torsion bar;lateral portions extending from the ends of the upper region down to the bottom of the hole formed to accommodate the torsion bar; a first outer liner along the periphery of a respective mounting bracket assembly; a second outer liner along the hole formed to accommodate the torsion bar; and a plurality of reinforcements extending between the first outer liner and the second outer liner.

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