A system for mounting solar panels

Abstract

A system (10) for setting of solar panels in different heights and angles is provided in the present invention The system comprising a base member (12); first supporting rails (14a, 14b); second supporting rails (14c, 14d); and an upper mounting rail 16, where the first supporting rails (14a, 14b) are connected with one side the base member 12, the second supporting rails (14c, 14d) are connected with an opposite side of the base member (12), and the upper mounting rail (16) is joined horizontally in between the first supporting rails (14a, 14b) and the second supporting rails (14c, 14d), where a long longitudinal passage (26) on each of the second supporting rails (14c, 14d) provides slidable movement between the first supporting rails (14a, 14b) with the second supporting rails (14c, 14d), and enables adjusting heights and angles of the first supporting rails (14a, 14b) and the second supporting rails (14c, 14d) with the base member (12), thereby enabling setting of the solar panels in different heights and angles.

Description

DescriptionTitle of Invention: A system for mounting solar panelsTechnical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to installation of solar panels within a frame structure. More particularly, the invention relates a system designed to position solar panels at varying heights and / or angles.Background Art

[0002] Solar technology converts energy from the sun into electricity and reduces demands on conventional sources of electricity. Solar panels transform sunlight into direct electrical energy. Solar panels are typically rectangular in shape and of a convenient size for handling and mounting on a roof or other structure.Most commercially used solar panels, or photovoltaic panels, are elongated rectangular members that can lie flat on an inclined roof or other structure. However, when placed on a flat surface, they must be supported by a structure that positions the panel at the proper angle to best receive the sun's rays.

[0003] Solar panels or photovoltaic panels are typically somewhat flexible and are set in a supporting frame. Conventional supporting frame designs allow bending and / or twisting of parts of the frame under load, such as wind and / or snow accumulation. Weather-induced stresses can permanently damage the solar panel, leading to frame failure and the need for replacement.

[0004] Moreover, during the installation of solar panels in a frame structure, damages may occur through cutting, scribing, perforating, etching, punching, or other techniques for setting the panels and adjusting them to the proper fitting.

[0005] To optimize the reception of sunlight, it is necessary to set the panels at different heights and / or angles. Therefore, the present invention provides a system for adjusting the height and / or angle of solar panels to best capture solar rays.Summary of Invention

[0006] Aspects of the present invention provide a system for setting of solar panels in different heights and / or angles.

[0007] In one aspect the present invention provides a system which is prefabricated, where panels are mounted and adjustments are done according to the required heights and / or angles without any other kinds of installations.

[0008] In one aspect the present invention provides a system for setting of solar panels in different heights and / or angles, which is flexible and foldable; the system is easy for the transportation and occupy less space in storage and during the transportation.

[0009] In one aspect of the present invention, the system comprising a base member; first supporting rails; second supporting rails; and a upper mounting rail, where the first supporting rails are connected with one side the base member, the second supporting rails are connected with an opposite side of the base member, and the upper mounting rail is joined horizontally in between the first supporting rails and the second supporting rails, where a long longitudinal passage on each of the second supporting rails is configured to provide slidable movement between the first supporting rails with the second supporting rails, and enables adjusting heights and angles of the first supporting rails and the second supporting rails with the base member, thereby enabling setting of the solar panels in different heights and angles.

[0010] The system may include a mechanism that allows the adjustment of the height of the solar panels. This could be useful for accommodating different ground elevations or optimizing sunlight exposure throughout the day.

[0011] The invention might incorporate a feature to adjust the angle of the solar panels. This would enable the panels to capture sunlight optimally based on the season, latitude, and specific sunlight conditions at the installation site.

[0012] A user-friendly design that simplifies the installation process, making it accessible for both professionals and homeowners.

[0013] The system could be designed to withstand various weather conditions, ensuring durability and long-term functionality.

[0014] Advantages of the present invention are that the system provides improved frame strength, improved mounting structure, reduced material costs, reduced manufacturing costs, reduced installation costs, simplified installation, reduced installation time, higher installation yield or some other advantage.

[0015] Further details and specification of the invention are described in the detailed description and accompanying figures, providing comprehensive insights into the operation and functionalities of the present invention.Brief Description of Drawings

[0016] The foregoing aspects and many of the advantages of the present invention will be more appreciated and better understood by reference to the following detailed description, when taken in conjunction with the accompanying drawings, wherein:[Fig.1 Shows a system for setting of solar panels in different heights and / or angles in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention;Fig.2 shows the system is in elevated position for setting of solar panels in a height and / or an angle in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention;Fig.3a shows a base member of the system in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention;Fig.3b shows a foot base that will fit with base member of the system in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention;Fig.4 shows first supporting rails of the system in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention;Fig.5 shows second supporting rails of the system in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention;Fig.6 shows upper mounting rail of the system in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention;Fig.7 is a top view of the system in closed position for ease of transportation in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention;Fig.8 is a side view of the system in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention;Fig.9 a side view of the system is in elevated position for setting of solar panels in a height and / or angle in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention;Fig.10 a system for setting of solar panels in different heights and / or angles in accordance with another embodiment of the present invention; andFig.11 shows the system is in elevated position for setting of solar panels in a height and / or angle in accordance with another embodiment of the present invention.]Detailed Description of Embodiments

[0017] The present invention will now be described more fully hereinafter with reference to the accompanying drawings in which a preferred embodiment of the invention is shown. This invention may, however, be embodied in many different forms and should not be construed as being limited to the embodiments set forth herein. Rather, the embodiments are provided so that this disclosure will be thorough, and will fully convey the scope of the invention to those skilled in the art.

[0018] Embodiments of the present invention will be described herein with reference to the figures. Referring to Fig.1 , Fig.2 and Fig.3, in one embodiment, the present invention provides a system (designated as 10) for adjusting the height and / or angle of solar panels. The system includes a base member 12, first supporting rails 14a, 14b, second supporting rails 14c, 14d, and an upper mounting rail 16. The base member 12 is composed of four connecting elements configured to form a structure of either a rectangular or square shape. These connecting elements consist of an outer element 12a and an inner element 12b, where the inner element 12b is slidable into the outer element 12a to facilitate length adjustment during installation and transportation.

[0019] Along the length of the outer element 12a and the inner element 12b, there are numerous grooves allowing for length adjustment by inserting a pin into any of the grooves. This feature enables precise customization of the system's 10 dimensions. The versatility of the system 10 is enhanced by the slidable movement, providing adaptability to varying panel sizes. Additionally, the groovesalong the elements 12a, 12b offer a straightforward and secure method for adjusting the length, ensuring stability and ease of use during installation and transportation processes.

[0020] Similarly, the upper mounting rail 16 consist of an inner element 16a and an outer element 16b (shown in Fig.6), where the inner element 16a is slidable into the outer element 16b to facilitate length adjustment during installation and transportation.

[0021] The first ends of first supporting rails 14a, 14b are attached to one side of the base member 12 near the corners 22a, 22b respectively. Simultaneously, the first ends of the second supporting rails 14c, 14d are attached to the opposite side of the base member 12 near corners 22c, 22d respectively. In Fig. 1 and Fig.2, a variety of pins 18 is depicted, serving to link the first supporting rails 14a, 14b and the second supporting rails 14c, 14d to the base member 12 at or near the corners 22a, 22b, 22c, and 22d respectively.

[0022] The second ends of the first supporting rails 14a, 14b are connected in a sliding manner with the second supporting rails 14c, 14d through the use of pins 24. Each of the second supporting rails 14c, 14d features a long longitudinal passage 26, allowing for smooth and adjustable movement between the first supporting rails 14a, 14b and the second supporting rails 14c, 14d. This connection mechanism facilitates the adjustment of heights and angles for both the first supporting rails 14a, 14b and the second supporting rails 14c, 14d in conjunction with the base member 12 and the upper mounting rail 16. As a result, the system 10 enables the setting of solar panels at various heights and / or angles.

[0023] Moreover, the second ends of the second supporting rails 14c, 14d are interconnected by the upper mounting rail 16. When the upper mounting rail 16 is pulled up, the first supporting rails 14a, 14b smoothly slides into the long longitudinal passage 26, subsequently pulling up both the first supporting rails 14a, 14b and the second supporting rails 14c, 14d to various heights and / or angles. This coordinated movement facilitates the adjustment of the solar panels to different heights and angles. The elevation mechanism, achieved through theupper mounting rail 16, is instrumental in fine-tuning the positioning of the solar panels to suit diverse height and angle requirements.

[0024] In Fig.2, the system 10 is illustrated in a preferred embodiment, showcasing the first supporting rails 14a, 14b and the second supporting rails 14c, 14d in an elevated position, connected with the upper mounting rail 16 at the top. The upper mounting rail 16 incorporates upper locking means, represented by flaps 36, and designed for securely fitting and locking upper end of a solar panel, when a solar panel is placed on a side 32. The flaps 36 serve to provide support and prevent displacement in the event of disturbances, such as high winds. Similarly, another solar panel can be positioned on the opposite side 34 and engaged with the flaps 36. Further, lower end of the solar panel are fastened on the base member 12. This configuration ensures a stable and secure attachment of solar panels on both sides, enhancing the system's 10 resilience to external forces. Further, a device 27 is placed under the second supporting rails 14c, 14d, subsequently preventing movement of the second supporting rails 14c, 14d in an elevated position.

[0025] Fig.3a shows the base member 12 is composed of four connecting elements configured to form a structure of either a rectangular or square shape. These connecting elements consist of an outer element 12a and an inner element 12b, where the inner element 12b is slidable into the outer element 12a to facilitate length adjustment during installation and transportation.

[0026] Along the length of the outer element 12a and the inner element 12b, there are numerous grooves allowing for length adjustment by inserting a pin into any of the grooves. This feature enables precise customization of the system's dimensions. The versatility of the system 10 is enhanced by the slidable movement, providing adaptability to varying panel sizes. Additionally, the grooves along the elements offer a straightforward and secure method for adjusting the length, ensuring stability and ease of use during installation and transportation processes.

[0027] Moreover, the base member 12 is constructed using hollow connecting elements, allowing for the interconnection of one or more systems 10 on the ends 22a, 22b, 22c, and 22d to create a larger structure capable of accommodatingmultiple panels. The connecting elements feature holes 28 designed for joining another system 10 through the use of pins in each of the four directions. It gives flexibility to mount the panels consecutively in the corresponding direction. This modular design enables the seamless expansion of the structure by connecting multiple systems, providing a scalable solution for mounting a plurality of panels in a unified configuration.

[0028] Additionally, channels 30 are incorporated into the base member 12, serving as receptacles for the pins 24 when the system 10 is in a closed position, i.e., not in use. This design facilitates ease of transport by securely accommodating the pins within the channels 30, ensuring a compact and convenient arrangement during transportation.

[0029] Further, the outer element 12a of the base member 12 includes a plurality of holes 31 , which allows the regulation of the highness, a pin is inserted into the holes 31 which ensures that the panel do not change the highness when it comes to the wished angle 10 - 25 degrees.

[0030] Fig.3b is foot base 39 that will support the system 10 on a flat surface. Further, the foot base 39 has a click system 40 that fit into the base member 12 and prevents the system 10 to move from the foot base 30.

[0031] In Fig.4, the first supporting rails 14a, 14b are depicted with first ends 20a, 20b and second ends 21 a, 21 b. As shown in Fig. 1 and Fig.2, the first ends 20a, 20b are connected to one side of the base member 12 near corners 22a, 22b respectively. The second ends 21a, 21 b of the first supporting rails 14a, 14b are interconnected in a sliding manner with the second supporting rails 14c, 14d through the use of pins 24. Additionally, the second ends 21 a, 21 b of the first supporting rails 14c, 14d are linked together by the upper mounting rail 16. This configuration highlights the structural arrangement and connectivity of the supporting elements within the system 10.

[0032] In Fig. 5, the second supporting rails 14c, 14d are depicted with first ends 20c, 20d and second ends 21c, 21 d. As illustrated in Fig. 1 and Fig. 2, the first ends 20c, 20d are connected to the opposite side of the base member 12 near corners 22c, 22d respectively. The second ends 21c, 21 d of the second supporting rails 14c, 14d are interlinked in a sliding manner with the first supporting rails 14a, 14busing pins 24. Additionally, the long longitudinal passage 26 is evident, through which the first supporting rails 14a, 14b slide within the second supporting rails 14c, 14d, allowing for adjustments in the setting of solar panels at different heights and / or angles.

[0033] In Fig.6, the upper mounting rail 16 consist of an inner element 16a and an outer element 16b, where the inner element 16a is slidable into the outer element 16b to facilitate length adjustment during installation and transportation.

[0034] In Fig. 7, a top view of the system 10 is presented, illustrating the configuration when the system is laid flat. This flat orientation is designed for convenient transportation and storage, occupying minimal space during both storage and transportation processes.

[0035] In Fig. 8, a side view of the system 10 is depicted. One side of the first supporting rail 14b is slidably engaged with the second supporting rail 14d through the long longitudinal passage 26 using a pin 24. The first supporting rail 14b is connected to one side of the base member 12, while the second supporting rail 14d is connected to the opposite side of the base member 12 via pins 18. This illustration highlights the sliding connection and pin-based linkage between a first supporting rail 14b and a second supporting rail 14d, showcasing the structural arrangement of the system 10 in a side view.

[0036] In Fig. 9, a side view of the system 10 is presented in an elevated position, facilitating the setting of solar panels at a specific height and angle. The first supporting rail 14b - which can be longer- and the second supporting rail 14d are positioned at a height and angle relative to the base member 12, allowing for the adjustment of solar panels to the desired elevation and orientation. This configuration enables precise customization of the system 10 for optimal solar panel placement.

[0037] In Fig. 10, an alternative embodiment of the system 10 is illustrated, showcasing its capability to facilitate the setting of solar panels at different heights and / or angles. The system 10 comprises a base member 12, first supporting rails 14a, 14b - which can be longer-, second supporting rails 14c, 14d, and an upper mounting rail 16. Further, as in the previous embodiment system 10 a device 27 is placed under the second supporting rails 14c, 14d, subsequentlypreventing movement of the second supporting rails 14c, 14d in an elevated position.

[0038] The base member 12 is constructed with four connecting elements, forming a rectangular or square-shaped structure.

[0039] The first ends of the first supporting rails 14a, 14b -which can be longer- are respectively attached to one side of the base member 12 near the corners 22a, 22b, while the first ends of the second supporting rails 14c, 14d are respectively attached to the opposite side of the base member 12 near corners 22c, 22d.

[0040] Pins 18 are provided to link the first supporting rails 14a, 14b and the second supporting rails 14c, 14d to the base member 12 at or near the corners 22a, 22b, 22c, and 22d respectively. The second ends of the first supporting rails 14a, 14b are connected in a sliding manner with the second supporting rails 14c, 14d through pins 24. Each of the second supporting rails 14c, 14d incorporate a long longitudinal passage 26 to facilitate smooth and adjustable movement between the first supporting rails 14a, 14b and the second supporting rails 14c, 14d.

[0041] The second ends of the first supporting rails 14a, 14b are slidably connected with the second supporting rails 14c, 14d using pins (24). The second supporting rails 14c, 14d feature long longitudinal passages 26 allowing for smooth and adjustable movement between the first and second supporting rails, enabling height and angle adjustments.

[0042] The upper mounting rail 16 interconnects the second ends of the second supporting rails 14c, 14d. When the upper mounting rail 16 is raised, the first supporting rails 14a, 14b slide into the long longitudinal passages 26, elevating both the first and second supporting rails to different heights and / or angles. This mechanism, controlled by the upper mounting rail, facilitates precise adjustment of solar panels to meet specific height and angle requirements.

[0043] In Fig. 11 , an alternative embodiment of the system 10 is depicted, where the first supporting rails 14a, 14b -which can be longer- and the second supporting rails 14c, 14d are in an elevated position connected with the upper mounting rail 16 at the top. The upper mounting rail 16 is equipped with upper locking means 36, and the base member 12 features lower locking means 38. A solar panel can be positioned on side 32 and secured in place by engaging both the upperlocking means 36 and lower locking means 38. This dual-locking system provides robust support, preventing displacement due to external forces such as high winds. Similarly, another solar panel can be placed on side 34, utilizing the upper locking means (36) and lower locking means 38 for secure fixation.

[0044] Furthermore, the first supporting rails 14a, 14b - which can be longer- and the second supporting rails 14c, 14d can be adjusted to different heights and / or angles. These adjustments are facilitated by the movement of the first supporting rails 14a, 14b with the second supporting rails 14c, 14d, where pins 24 slide into the long longitudinal passage 26. This mechanism allows for flexible and precise customization of the system to accommodate various solar panel configurations.

[0045] The foregoing description of embodiments of the invention has been presented for purposes of illustration and description. It is not intended to be exhaustive or to limit the invention to the precise form disclosed, and modifications and variations are possible in light of the above teachings or may be acquired from practice of the invention without departing from the scope of the invention. The embodiments were chosen and described in order to explain the principles of the invention and its practical application to enable one skilled in the art to utilize the invention in various embodiments and with various modifications as are suited to the particular use contemplated.

Claims

Claims

1. 1 . A system (10) for setting of solar panels in different heights and angles, the system comprising:- a base member (12);- first supporting rails (14a, 14b);- second supporting rails (14c, 14d) ; and- an upper mounting rail (16); characterized by,A first supporting rails (14a, 14b) are respectively having first ends (20a, 20b) and second ends (21a, 21b),A second supporting rails (14c, 14d) are respectively having first ends (20c, 20d), second ends (21c, 21d) and a long longitudinal passage (26) on a body length, where the first ends (20a, 20b) of the first supporting rails (14a, 14b) are connected with one side the base member (12), and the first ends (20c, 20d) of the second supporting rails (14c, 14d) are connected with an opposite side of the base member (12), where the second ends (21a, 21b) of the first supporting rails (14a, 14b) are respectively connected with the second ends (21c, 21 d) of the second supporting rails (14c, 14d), and the upper mounting rail (16) is joined horizontally in between the first supporting rails (14a, 14b) and the second supporting rails (14c, 14d), where the long longitudinal passage (26) on each of the second supporting rails (14c, 14d) provides slidable movement between the first supporting members (14a, 14b) with the second supporting rails (14c, 14d), and enables adjusting heights and angles of the first supporting rails (14a, 14b) and the second supporting rails (14c, 14d) with the base member (12), thereby enabling setting of the solar panels in different heights and angles.

2. The system (10) of claim 1 , wherein the base member (12) is made of hollow connecting elements, where these connecting elements consist of an outer element (12a) and an inner element (12b), where the inner element (12b) is slidable into the outer element (12a) or vice-versa to facilitate length adjustment during installation and transportation.

3. The system (10) of claim 1 , further one or more system (10) can be joined together on one or more ends (22a, 22b, 22c and 22d) to form a larger structure for mounting multiple panels.

4. The system (10) of claim 1 , when the upper mounting rail (16) is pulled up, the first supporting rails (14a, 14b) move slidably into the long longitudinal passage (26) of the second supporting rails (14c, 14d), that enables elevation of the first supporting rails (14a, 14b) and the second supporting rails (14c, 14d) with the base member (12) in different heights and angles.

5. The system (10) of claim 1 , wherein the base member (12) further includes channels (30), serving as receptacles for the pins (24) when the system (10) is in a closed position, and facilitates ease of transport by securely accommodating the pins within the channels (30), ensuring a compact and convenient arrangement during transportation.

6. The system (10) of claim 1 , wherein the upper mounting rail (16) further includes upper locking means (36) and the base member (12) further includes lower locking means (38) for securely fitting and locking a solar panel.

7. The system (10) of claim 1 , wherein the upper mounting rail (16) further includes upper locking means (36) and the base member (12) further includes lower locking means (38) for securely fitting and locking a solar panel.

8. The system (10) of claim 7, wherein the upper locking means (36) and the lower locking means (38) provide supports and prevents displacement from any disturbance, such as high wind.

9. A system (10) for mounting solar panels, the system comprising:- a base member (12);- first supporting rails (14a, 14b) which can be longer;- second supporting rails (14c, 14d); and- an upper mounting rail (16); characterized by, the first supporting rails (14a, 14b) that are connected with one side the base member (12), the second supporting rails (14c, 14d) are connected with an opposite side of the base member (12), and the upper mounting rail (16) is joined horizontally in between the first supporting rails (14a, 14b) and the second supporting rails (14c, 14d), where a long longitudinal passage (26) on each of the second supporting rails (14c, 14d) provides slidable movement between the first supporting rails (14a, 14b) with the second supporting rails (14c, 14d), and enables adjusting heights and angles of the first supporting rails (14a, 14b) and the second supporting rails (14c, 14d) with the base member (12), thereby enabling setting of the solar panels in different heights and angles.

10. The system (10) of claim 8, wherein the base member (12) is made of hollow connecting elements, where these connecting elements consist of an outer element (12a) and an inner element (12b), where the inner element (12b) is slidable into the outer element (12a) or vice-versa to facilitate length adjustment during installation and transportation.

11. The system (10) of claim 9, when the upper mounting rail (16) is pulled up, the first supporting rails (14a, 14b) move slidably into the long longitudinal passage (26) of the second supporting rails (14c, 14d), that enables elevation of the first supporting rails (14a, 14b) and the second supporting rails (14c, 14d) with the base member (12) in different heights and angles.

12. The system (10) of claim 9, wherein the upper mounting rail (16) consist of an inner element (16a) and an outer element (16b), where the inner element (16a) is slidable into the outer element (16b) or vice-versa to facilitate length adjustment during installation and transportation.

13. The system (10) of claim 9, wherein the upper mounting rail (16) further includes upper locking means (36) and the base member (12) further includes lower locking means (38) for securely fitting and locking a solar panel.

14. The system (10) of claim 13, wherein the upper locking means (36) and the lower locking means (38) provide supports and prevents displacement from any disturbance, such as high wind]

Images