A solar panel mounting system

Abstract

The present disclosure relates to a solar panel mounting system (1) for mounting on a surface (120), the solar panel mounting system (1) comprising a first bracket (2a) having a first receiving portion (30), a second bracket (2b) having a second receiving portion (31), wherein the first and the second receiving portions (30, 31) are arranged to, at a mounted state, jointly retain a solar panel (20) at an inclined position relative to said surface (120), wherein at said mounted state, the system (1) retains a first edge (21a) of the solar panel (20) at a retaining position that cause the first edge (21a) to be secured in said first receiving portion (30) provided that said second receiving portion (31) accommodates the second edge (21b) of the solar panel (20).

Description

[0001] A SOLAR PANEL MOUNTING SYSTEM

[0002] TECHNICAL FIELD

[0003] The present disclosure relates to a solar panel mounting system, a solar panel assembly and a method for mounting a solar panel to the solar panel mounting system.

[0004] BACKGROUND

[0005] Solar panel mounting systems are designed to securely hold solar panels in place on various surfaces, such as rooftops or the ground, ensuring they are properly aligned to capture the maximum amount of sunlight. These systems come in different types, like fixed-tilt (i.e. inclined solar panel mounting systems) or adjustable mounts, depending on the installation requirements.

[0006] Inclined solar panels are beneficial as they are operable to maximize energy generation by optimizing the angle at which sunlight hits the panels, improving efficiency. The tilt allows panels to capture more sunlight throughout the day, especially in regions where the sun's position changes significantly with seasons.

[0007] However, solar panel mounting systems for inclined solar panels in the present art are inconveniently configured. Thereby, the installation process is time-consuming and requires specialized skills and tools, which increase costs and complexity.

[0008] For example, solar panel mounting systems in the present art usually use spring-operated clamping elements which are combined with fastening means such as screws or bolts to fasten a solar panel to the mounting system. Hence, the user which is installing the solar panel to the solar panel mounting system is required to interact with the spring (which can be challenging, specially in harsh weather conditions) and subsequently secure the solar panel with fastening means.

[0009] Accordingly, improvements are needed to make mounting systems more convenient to install.

[0010] Specifically, improvements are needed to provide a solar panel mounting systems for inclined solar panels which allow for increased installation convenience without compromising the ability of the solar panel mounting system so securely retain the solar panels.

[0011] SUMMARY

[0012] It is therefore an object of the present disclosure to alleviate at least some of the mentioned drawbacks to provide an improved solar panel mounting system that enables a more convenient solar panel installation while being more robust compared to conventional solar panel mounting systems.

[0013] These and other objects, which will become apparent in the following, are achieved by a solar panel mounting system, a solar panel assembly and a method for mounting a solar panel to the solar panel mounting system as defined in the appended claims.

[0014] The present disclosure is at least partly based on the insight that a solar panel mounting system having brackets with rigid upper and lower jaws allow for a more convenient installation.

[0015] The present disclosure relates to a solar panel mounting system for mounting on a surface, the solar panel mounting system (hereinafter referred to as "mounting system") comprising a first bracket having a first receiving portion comprising a lateral first notch, the first notch being arranged to receive a first edge of a solar panel. Further, the mounting system comprises a second bracket having a second receiving portion comprising a lateral second notch, the second notch being arranged to receive an opposite second edge of said solar panel. The first and the second edge may be frame edges of the solar panel. Accordingly, the solar panel may be attached to a frame which has opposite inwardly extending edges at an underside of the frame.

[0016] Further, the first bracket has a greater extension along a longitudinal axis of said solar panel mounting system relative to said second bracket, wherein the first notch and the second notch face away from each other, wherein the longitudinal axis is perpendicular to a horizontal axis. Furthermore, the first receiving portion comprises a first rigid upper jaw and a first rigid lower jaw, the first rigid upper jaw comprising a first inward upper surface which faces a first inward lower surface of the first rigid lower jaw, wherein the first inward upper surface and the first inward lower surface at least partly define said first notch.

[0017] Moreover, the second receiving portion comprises a second rigid upper jaw and a second rigid lower jaw, the second rigid upper jaw comprising a second inward upper surface which faces a second inward lower surface of the second rigid lower jaw, wherein the second inward upper surface and the second inward lower surface at least partly define said second notch (i.e. the notch is between the lower and upper surface). The receiving portion may be formed by a rigid / stiff non-elastic / deformable material such as metal or steel. Each receiving portion may be free from any displaceable or movable parts or components.

[0018] The first and the second receiving portion are arranged to, at a mounted state, jointly retain said solar panel at an inclined position, wherein the first inward upper and first inward lower surface are dimensioned to, at said mounted state, retain the first edge at a retaining position that cause the first edge to be secured (and fixed / firm) in said first receiving portion provided that said second receiving portion (complementary) accommodates the second edge.

[0019] Accordingly, at said mounted state, each bracket may be directly or indirectly fixed to said surface (e.g. by screws). The surface may be a horizontal or inclined surface. The surface may be a ground surface, a roof, a wall or any other surface.

[0020] Advantageously, the mounting system having notches formed between rigid jaws allow for a more convenient mounting of a solar panel thereto. Specifically, the solar panel may be mounted to the brackets without use of any tools.

[0021] At least one of the first and the second notch, preferably both, at said mounted state may pinchably / clampingly retain the edges of the solar panel within the first and second notch. At said mounted state, the receiving portions may apply stress to at least one of the edges (i.e. slightly deforming at least one of the edges at a portion of the edge being within the at least one notch) in a manner that enables the solar panel to be fastened between the notches.

[0022] At least an upper portion of each of the first and the second bracket are integrally formed, each upper portion comprising said receiving portion, preferably each of the first and second bracket are fully integrally formed such that each bracket is a one-piece structure. Each bracket may at a lower portion comprise fastening openings for receiving fastening means (screws, bolts or the like) to be fastened to the surface directly or indirectly (e.g. via a rail arrangement).

[0023] Advantageously, as the brackets may be in one-piece, manufacturing is convenient and assembly is convenient as the one-piece structure is devoid of any movable parts (specifically at said receiving portion).

[0024] Each inward surface (i.e. first / second inward upper surface and first / second inward lower surface) may be flat or corrugated. In some aspects, one of the surfaces is corrugated and the other flat (e.g. inward upper surface, for at least the first receiving portion, is corrugated and inward lower surface is flat).

[0025] Further, each inward lower surface may have a greater lateral extension (along, but not necessarily parallel to, the horizontal axis) than each inward upper surface so to facilitate easier positioning of the solar panel edge within the notch. Accordingly, a greater extension of inward lower surface (at least for said first receiving portion) may allow the edge to be slid into the notch.

[0026] As may be appreciated, the mounting system may also have a depth extension along a depth axis perpendicular to said horizontal axis. The depth extension of each bracket may be a fraction (e.g. 5-15%) of the depth extension of the solar panel edge.

[0027] A width between an inward upper surface and a corresponding inward lower surface of at least the first notch may in some aspects gradually decrease towards a tip of said corresponding upper jaw This may enable a greater radius in the notch which reduces risks of cracking in the corresponding receiving portion.

[0028] Moreover, each of the first inward upper surface, the first inward lower surface, the second inward upper surface and the second inward lower surface may be non-parallel with said horizontal axis or, at said mounted state, non-parallel with an inclination of said surface. This may facilitate an improved securing of a corresponding edge to the corresponding notch.

[0029] In some aspects at least the first inward upper surface and the first inward lower surface are non-parallel relative to each other. This may enable a better retention capability.

[0030] In a specific aspect of the mounting system, the mounting system is arranged to receive edges of the solar panel each of which comprises a laterally protruding flap having an uppermost surface and opposite lowermost surface, wherein one of the surfaces comprises a contact area and the other one comprises, at an opposite side of said contact area a corresponding contact- free area. Le. the contact-free area may be opposite to the contact-area. Nonetheless, the contact-free area may have an equal or greater extension laterally compared to the contact area. At said mounted state, at least the first receiving portion may be dimensioned to accommodate the flap of the first edge at a position in which the contact area abut and extend along at least a part of one of the first inward upper surface and the first inward lower surface, wherein the contact-free area is contact-free from the other one of the first inward upper surface and the first inward lower surface.

[0031] In one specific aspect, the first receiving portion is dimensioned to accommodate the flap of the first edge at a position in which the contact area abut and extend along the first inward upper surface, wherein the contact-free area is contact-free from the first inward lower surface. A same or opposite configuration may apply for the second receiving portion and second edge. Specifically, the flap may be strapped, bent or deformed towards the inward upper surface, e.g. so that it actively pushes towards the inward upper surface. In some aspects, at least 90% of the lateral extension of the inward upper surface may be abutting the flap of the first edge. The aforementioned aspect, generally allow the corresponding flap to be deformed towards one of the inward upper and inward lower surface.

[0032] It should be noted that the edge may comprise a platform portion which at an upper part is integral with or connected to a frame of the solar panel and at a lower part comprise the laterally protruding flap. The platform portion may be arranged to, at its bottom rest against the inward lower surface of the first receiving portion, wherein the flap (distal part thereof) is stressed / deformed / strained against the inward upper surface of the first receiving portion. Advantageously, this increases robustness of the system as the platform portion is of greater thickness than the flap, thereby being more rigid.

[0033] The above configurations may be oppositely arranged (e.g. the flap may be deformed against the inward lower surface in some aspects). Also the above configuration may be arranged for one, or both of the first and second brackets. Also, the above configuration may be arranged for one or both of the first and second brackets in a complementary manner. Advantageously, the mounting system is configured to efficiently restrain the solar panel between its brackets.

[0034] In some aspects, at least one of the first inward upper surface and the first inward lower surface are non-parallel with said solar panel at said mounted state, thereby retaining the first edge at a retaining position that cause the first edge to be secured in said first notch provided that said second receiving portion accommodates the second edge. Thus, the first edge may be secured by forces from the first rigid upper jaw and the first rigid lower jaw acting on a distal and a proximal portion of the first edge. Additionally or alternatively, forces from the second rigid upper jaw and the second rigid lower jaw act on a distal and a proximal portion of the second edge.

[0035] Hence, the solar panel mounting system may be arranged to slightly deform or apply a stress to one or both of the first and second edge in a manner that secures the solar panel to the solar panel mounting system.

[0036] It should be noted that the mounting system may comprise a rail arrangement, wherein the rail arrangement is arranged to be fastened to said surface, wherein the first and the second bracket are mounted to said surface via the rail arrangement, at said mounted state. The first and second brackets may be mounted to the rail arrangement via screws or bolts.

[0037] Advantageously, this improves stability of the mounting system. In some aspects, the rail arrangement may be a horizontal rail arranged to receive the first bracket at one portion and the second at another portion. In other aspects, the rail arrangement may comprise two rails arranged, along a depth axis of the system, to receive the first bracket at one of the rails and the other bracket at the other rail.

[0038] In some aspects, after fixing said brackets to the rail or the surface, the brackets may be non- displaceable so that it is impossible to adjust a distance between the brackets after that the brackets are fastened to the surface or rail by screws or the like. Hence, the brackets may be void of any sliding or displacement interface.

[0039] Further, a gap between an inward upper surface and corresponding inward lower surface of each bracket may maintain a minimum distance greater than a thickness of each corresponding edge of the solar panel at every point along the inward upper and lower surfaces, wherein each inward upper surface and corresponding inward lower surface are connected via a corresponding curve portion. It should be noted that the gap may be tapered either to narrow or expand along the depth of the notch.

[0040] Advantageously, the gap allow for convenient insertion of edges while also improving the securing capability of the system.

[0041] In some aspects, the mounting system may comprise two pairs of first and second brackets. Accordingly, the brackets may be arranged so that a pair of first brackets retain a first edge of the solar panel and a pair of second brackets retain a second edge of the solar panel.

[0042] The present disclosure further relates to a solar panel assembly comprising the solar panel mounting system according to any aspect herein and at least one solar panel having a first edge and an opposite second edge, the first and the second edge extending towards each other.

[0043] Further, in a mounted state of said solar panel assembly, the solar panel is retained between said receiving portions at an inclined position, wherein the first inward upper and first inward lower surface are dimensioned to retain the first edge at a retaining position that cause the first edge to be secured in said first receiving portion, wherein the second receiving portion accommodates the second edge. It should be noted that the retaining position may be an angle and may be different depending on the inclination of the surface, as may be appreciated.

[0044] At said mounted state, the first and the second brackets may be fixed to the surface.

[0045] Further, in some aspects, the retaining position is a position that deforms a first lateral portion of the first edge against one of the inward surfaces and wherein the second lateral portion is supported by the other one of the inward surfaces. It should be noted that, at an uninstalled state, the solar panel may be parallel to the first and the second edge.

[0046] Further, the first edge, in said retaining position, may be deformed against one of said first inward upper surface and said first inward lower surface (and / or the second edge may be correspondingly deformed). Accordingly, the first edge may be deformed in a manner that cause the solar panel to naturally act to return to an unstressed state (by vertical movement), however as the second notch secures the other edge, the solar panel will be secured in the notches. The present disclosure further relates to a method for mounting a solar panel to the solar panel mounting system of any aspect herein, the method comprising: securing, directly or indirectly, the first bracket to a surface; inserting a first edge of the solar panel into the first receiving portion; pushing the solar panel downwards or upwards along the longitudinal axis towards said surface, preferably at least until, reaching a forced state, in which an opposite force acts to push the solar panel oppositely (i.e. upon slightly deforming the first edge) inserting, prior to or after pushing, the second edge in said second notch at said forced state locking the solar panel to said surface at said inclined position, via securing the second bracket, directly or indirectly to said surface.

[0047] Accordingly, there may be two ways of securing the solar panel to the mounting system, depending on the notches. Either, e.g. the first bracket may be formed such that the solar panel naturally rests against the surface or a rail upon being inserted into the first notch. Further, the solar panel then need to be raised vertically until an opposite force acts to push it down, then the second edge may be inserted in the second bracket and the second bracket may be secured to the rail or surface while the solar panel first edge is stressed / deformed.

[0048] In the other way, the first bracket may be formed such that the solar panel is above the surface or a rail upon being inserted into the first notch. Further, the solar panel then need to be pushed down vertically until an opposite force acts to raise the solar panel, then the second edge may be inserted in the second bracket and the second bracket may be secured to the rail or surface while the solar panel first edge is stressed / deformed.

[0049] The solar panel may comprise a frame having a main frame arranged to receive the panel, the frame comprising said edges which may comprise a platform portion which at an upper part is integral with or connected to a frame of the solar panel and at a lower part comprise laterally protruding first and second flaps arranged to be inserted in the notches. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0050] These and other features and advantages of the present disclosure will now be further clarified and described in more detail, with reference to the appended drawings;

[0051] Figure 1 illustrates an objective view of a solar panel assembly mounted to a horizontal surface in accordance with some aspects of the present disclosure;

[0052] Figures 2A-2B illustrates side views of the first bracket and the second bracket in accordance with some aspects of the present disclosure;

[0053] Figures 3A-3B illustrates objective views of the first bracket and the second bracket in accordance with some aspects of the present disclosure;

[0054] Figure 4 illustrates a side view of the first accommodating a first edge of a solar panel in accordance with some aspects of the present disclosure;

[0055] Figure 5 illustrates side views of the first bracket and the second bracket, each accommodating a corresponding edge of a solar panel in accordance with some aspects of the present disclosure;

[0056] Figure 6 illustrates a side view of a solar panel assembly in accordance with some aspects of the present disclosure;

[0057] Figure 7 illustrates, in the form of a schematic flowchart, a method in accordance with some aspects of the present disclosure;

[0058] Figure 8 illustrates, in the form of a graphical flowchart, a method in accordance with a first aspect of the present disclosure; and

[0059] Figure 9 illustrates, in the form of a graphical flowchart, a method in accordance with a second aspect of the present disclosure; DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0060] In the following detailed description, some embodiments of the present disclosure will be described. However, it is to be understood that features of the different embodiments are exchangeable between the embodiments and may be combined in different ways, unless anything else is specifically indicated. Even though in the following description, numerous specific details are set forth to provide a more thorough understanding of the present disclosure, it will be apparent to one skilled in the art that the present disclosure may be practiced without these specific details. In other instances, well known constructions or functions are not described in detail, so as not to obscure the present disclosure.

[0061] It is also to be understood that the terminology used herein is for purpose of describing particular aspects only, and is not intended to be limiting. It should be noted that, as used in the specification and the appended claim, the articles "a", "an", "the", and "said" are intended to mean that there are one or more of the elements unless the context clearly dictates otherwise. Thus, for example, reference to "a unit" or "the unit" may refer to more than one unit in some contexts, and the like. Furthermore, the words "comprising", "including", "containing" do not exclude other elements or steps. It should be emphasized that the term "comprises / comprising" when used in this specification is taken to specify the presence of stated features, integers, steps, or components. It does not preclude the presence or addition of one or more other features, integers, steps, components, or groups thereof. The term "and / or" is to be interpreted as meaning "both" as well and each as an alternative. More specifically, the wording "one or more" of a set of elements (as in "one or more of A, B and C" or "at least one of A, B and C") is to be interpreted as either a conjunctive or disjunctive logic. Put differently, it may refer either to all elements, one element or combination of two or more elements of a set of elements. For example, the wording "A, B and C" may be interpreted as A or B or C, A and B and C, A and B, B and C, or A and C.

[0062] It will also be understood that, although the term first, second, etc. may be used herein to describe various elements or features, these elements should not be limited by these terms. These terms are only used to distinguish one element from another. For example, a first element could be termed a second element, and, similarly, a second element could be termed a first element, without departing from the scope of the embodiments. The first element and the second element are both elements, but they are not the same element. Figure 1 illustrates an objective view of a solar panel assembly mounted to a horizontal surface 120 comprising a solar panel mounting system 1 and a solar panel 20. Figure 1 illustrates that the solar panel mounting system 1 comprises a first bracket 2a and a second bracket 2b. In Figure 1 it is illustrated that the first bracket 2a has a greater extension along a longitudinal axis yl of said solar panel mounting system 1 relative to said second bracket 2b, wherein the longitudinal axis yl is perpendicular to a horizontal axis zl. The solar panel assembly 100 also extends along a third axis xl. Further, Figure 1 illustrates that the brackets 2a, 2b face away from each other. Figure 1 further illustrates that the mounting system 1 which is in a mounted state, retains said solar panel 20 at an inclined position relative to said surface 120.

[0063] Figure 1 further illustrates that the solar panel mounting system 1 may comprise a rail arrangement 50, wherein the rail arrangement is arranged to be fastened to said surface 120, the surface 120 preferably being a substantially horizontal surface (however the surface may be inclined). Figure 1 illustrates that the first and the second brackets 2a, 2b are mounted to said surface 120 via the rail arrangement 50, at said mounted state. As illustrated in Figure 1, the rail arrangement 50 may comprise a plurality of rails which may be arranged in parallel, either along the z-axis (as shown) or along the x-axis (not shown). Accordingly, as illustrated in Figure 1 the mounting system 1 may comprise a pair of first brackets 2a arranged to receive a common edge of a solar panel, and a pair of second brackets 2b arranged to receive a common opposite edge of said solar panel, wherein one of each bracket 2a, 2b is secured to one common rail in the rail arrangement 50, and the other brackets 2a, 2b to another parallel rail of the rail arrangement 50. In other aspects, each first bracket 2a may be secured to a common rail and each second bracket 2b to another common rail. Further, Figure 1 illustrates that the rail arrangement 50 may be arranged to receive a plurality of each bracket 2a, 2b so to secure a plurality of solar panels 20 to said surface 120 via the rail arrangement 120, wherein for each solar panel at least one of each bracket 2a, 2b is required. The rail arrangement may be arranged to extend both along axis zl and xl to allow for an array of inclined solar panels 20 to be mounted to cover large areas.

[0064] Figures 2A-2B illustrates components of the solar panel mounting system 1 in more detail from a side view. Specifically, Figure 2A illustrates a side view of the first bracket 2a a first bracket 2a having a first receiving portion 30 comprising a lateral first notch 10a, the first notch 10a being arranged to receive a first edge 21a of the solar panel of Figure 1.

[0065] Figure 2A further illustrates that the first receiving portion 30 comprises a first rigid upper jaw 30a and a first rigid lower jaw 30b, the first rigid upper jaw 30a comprising a first inward upper surface 30a' which faces a first inward lower surface 30b' of the first rigid lower jaw 30b. The surfaces 30a' 30b' forming a gap between each other. The jaws 30a, 30b may be fixed / stationary relative to each other such that they are non-movable i.e. being void of adjusting mechanisms such as hinges, screws, springs etc. Furthermore, the first inward upper surface and the first inward lower surface 30a', 30b' at least partly define said first notch 10a, as illustrated in Figure 2A. The bracket 2a may be an integral one-piece structure formed by e.g. a rigid metal or any other suitable rigid material. The gap between the inward upper surface and corresponding inward lower surface 30a', 30b', 31a', 31b' of each bracket 2a, 2b may maintain a minimum distance greater than a thickness of each corresponding edge 21a, 21b of the solar panel 20 at every point along the inward upper and lower surfaces 30a', 30b', 31a', 31b'. Accordingly, as illustrated in Figures 2A-2B inward upper surface 30a', 31a' and corresponding inward lower surface 30b', 31b' may be connected via a corresponding curve portion c2.

[0066] Figure 2B illustrates a second bracket 2b having a second receiving portion 31 comprising a lateral second notch 10b, the second notch 10b being arranged to receive an opposite second edge 21b of said solar panel 20. Further, Figure 2B illustrates that the second receiving portion 31 comprises a second rigid upper jaw and a second rigid lower jaw 31a, 31b, the second rigid upper jaw 31a comprising a second inward upper surface 31a' which faces a second inward lower surface 31b' of the second rigid lower jaw 31b, wherein the second inward upper surface and the second inward lower surface 31a', 31b' at least partly define said second notch 10b. Accordingly, the bracket 2b may be an integral one-piece structure formed by e.g. a rigid metal.

[0067] Referring to Figures 2A-2B the first and the second receiving portions 30, 31 are arranged to, at a mounted state, jointly retain said solar panel 20 at an inclined position relative to said surface, wherein the first inward upper and first inward lower surface 31a', 31b' are dimensioned to, at said mounted state, retain the first edge 21a at a retaining position that cause the first edge 21a to be secured in said first receiving portion 30 provided that said second receiving portion 31 accommodates the second edge 21b, preferably provided that said second receiving portion accommodates the second edge 21b and is secured to said surface. It should be noted that the retaining position may be a position in which at least one of the first edge and the second edge 21a, 21b, are deformed against a corresponding one of said inward upper surfaces and said inward lower surfaces 30a', 30b', 31a', 31b'.

[0068] Hence, at least one of the edges 21a, 21b may be less rigid / stiff or have any other material property that cause it to deform within the corresponding notch 10a, 10b provided that a force of a sufficient magnitude is applied thereto. The deformation of the edge may be marginal so that it is only substantially deformed, just enough to cause a stress which locks the solar panel in a fixed position provided that the other edge is, at least vertically, retained in the other notch. Thereby, the other notch prevents the solar panel from returning to its original position (i.e. a position in which the edge is not deformed anymore). The edges 21a, 21b may be formed by a metal, substrate or any other suitable material. The edges 21a, 21b may have a thickness of 0.5-15 mm, preferably about 0.5-5mm, more preferably about 0.5- 2mm. Thereby, forming a plate like structure. The gap between the inward upper surfaces and said inward lower surfaces 30a', 30b', 31a', 31b may be as a minimum 1mm, preferably as a minimum 2mm, more preferably as a minimum 3mm. The gap may at any point be larger than the thickness of the edges 21a, 21b.

[0069] It should be noted that the notches 10a, 10b may have slopes that complement each other. E.g. the first bracket 2a has a notch 10a that slopes downwards towards the opposite bracket 2b whereas the second bracket 2b has a notch 10 that slopes upwards towards the opposite bracket 2a.

[0070] The first bracket 2a may have a height vertically of at least 10cm, preferably 10-40cm whereas the second bracket may have a height of at least 5cm, preferably 3-15 cm. The brackets 2a, 2b may be arranged to retain a solar panel extending about l-2m. Therefore, the distance between the brackets 2a, 2b may be about l-2m along axis zl (see Figure 1).

[0071] Figures 2A-2B further illustrates that the brackets 2a, 2b may on bottom portions 41, 42 thereof comprise fastening openings for receiving fastening elements or the like to fasten the brackets to a surface. In some aspects, the brackets comprise fastening protrusions or any other type of fastening means for allowing the brackets 2a, 2b to be fixedly secured to a surface.

[0072] Figures 2A-2B further illustrates that at least an upper portion ul, u2 of each of the first and the second bracket 2a, 2b may be integrally formed, each upper portion ul, u2 comprising said receiving portion 30, 31, preferably each of the first and second bracket 2a, 2b are fully integrally formed.

[0073] Furthermore, Figures 2A-2B illustrates that each of the first inward upper surface, the first inward lower surface, the second inward upper surface and the second inward lower surface 30a', 30b', 31a', 31b' are non-parallel with said horizontal axis zl or, at said mounted state, non-parallel with an inclination of said surface.

[0074] Figure 3 illustrates objective views of the first and second bracket 2a, 2b. The brackets 2a, 2b may be formed by at least one of bending, extrusion, casting, cutting and stamping processes. Accordingly, the brackets 2a, 2b may generally form a curve-shape e.g. u-shape along a crosssection thereof. Accordingly, the brackets 2a, 2b may define a plate like structure having a substantially uniform thickness of at least 1mm, preferably about 2.5 mm and maximum 5mm, 7.5mm, 10mm or 30 mm. Accordingly, provided that each bracket 2a, 2b are formed as in Figure 3, i.e. having a curved cross-section, each bracket 2a, 2b may comprise a pair of receiving portions 30, 31 (displaced about axis xl) as illustrated in Figure 3. The brackets 2a, 2b may each form a width along axis xl of 3-15 cm, preferably for about 5cm.

[0075] Figure 4 illustrates an enlarged side view of the first bracket 2a and illustrates that edge 21a comprises a laterally protruding flap 22 and an uppermost surface 22a and opposite lowermost surface 22L, wherein one of the surfaces 22a, 22L comprises a contact area cl and the other one comprises, at an opposite side of said contact area cl a corresponding contact- free area elf, wherein at said mounted state, at least the first receiving portion 30 is dimensioned to accommodate the first edge 21a at a position in which the contact area cl abut, and preferably extend along, at least a part of one of the first inward upper surface 30a' and the first inward lower surface 30b', wherein the contact-free area elf is contact-free from the other one of the first inward upper surface and the first inward lower surface 30a', 30b'. In Figure 4, the uppermost surface 22a comprises the contact area cl and the lowermost comprises the contact area elf. Accordingly, Figure 4 illustrates that the contact area cl abut the first inward upper surface 30a', wherein the contact-free area elf is contact-free from the first inward lower surface 30b'. Accordingly, the flap 22 may deform against the surface 30a' so to facilitate a securing of the solar panel between the first and the second bracket 2a, 2b.

[0076] Figure 4 further illustrates that at least one of the first inward upper surface and the first inward lower surface 30a', 30b' may be non-parallel with said solar panel 20 at said mounted state, thereby retaining the first edge 21a at a retaining position that cause the first edge 21a to be pinchably secured in said first notch 10a provided that said second receiving portion 31 accommodates the second edge 21b, whereby the first edge 21a is secured by forces from the first rigid upper jaw and the first rigid lower jaw 30a, 30b acting on a distal and a proximal portion dl, pl of the first edge21a. Thereby, the receiving portion create a "pinch-effect".

[0077] Figure 5A-5B illustrates side views of a first bracket 2a, in which the solar panel is secured to the receiving portion 30 in two alternative ways. Figure 5A illustrates that the contact area cl abut the first inward upper surface 30a' as illustrated in Figure 4. Figure 5B illustrates that the contact area cl abut the first inward upper surface 30a' in a manner which cause a heel / platform portion 24 of the edge 21a to rest against the first inward lower surface 30b'. Advantageously, this allow the brackets 2a to be able to absorb greater loads. The heel 24 may at an opposite end form a solar panel receiving section or a solar panel frame 25 which contains a receiving portion for accommodating a solar panel, in other aspects the solar panel may be integrated to, or integral with said heel 24.

[0078] It should be noted that even though the description describes features in view of first bracket 2a, the second bracket 2b may comprise the corresponding features. Nonetheless, in view of e.g. Figures 5A-5B, if the first bracket 2a is secured as illustrated, the second bracket 2b may retain the other edge of the solar panel in a complementary manner that enable the solar panel to be secured therebetween. However, an opposite configuration may also be provided in accordance with aspects herein.

[0079] Figure 6 discloses a side view of a solar panel assembly 200, the assembly 200 comprising the solar panel mounting system 1 according to any aspect herein. Figure 6 illustrates that the solar panel 20 is retained between said receiving portions 30, 31 at an inclined position between brackets 2a, 2b. Further, Figure 6 illustrates a retaining position that cause the first edge to be secured in said first receiving portion 30, as the second receiving portion 31 complementary accommodates the second edge. Accordingly, even though not illustrated in Figure 6, the first edge may be deformed within the corresponding notch of the receiving portion 30 so to allow the other receiving portion to, in a complementary manner, accommodate the second edge to thereby fixedly secure the solar panel 10 to the solar panel mounting system 1.

[0080] Figure 7 illustrates in the form of a flowchart, a method 100 for mounting a solar panel to the solar panel mounting system of any aspect herein, the method comprising the step of securing 101, directly or indirectly (such as via a rail arrangement), one of the brackets to a surface. Further, the method comprise the step of inserting 102 one of the edges of the solar panel into the receiving portion of said bracket. Furthermore, the method 100 comprises the steps of pushing 103 the solar panel downwards or upwards (for at least 5 cm, preferably 5-10 cm) along the longitudinal axis towards or away from said surface, preferably at least until an opposite force acts to push the solar panel oppositely (i.e. until resistance) . Moreover, the method 100 comprises the steps of inserting 104, prior to, or after pushing 103, the other edge in said other receiving portion and locking 105 the solar panel to said surface at said inclined position, via securing the other bracket, directly or indirectly to said surface (via e.g. fastening elements).

[0081] The method 100 may be performed manually by a user.

[0082] The method 100 is further illustrated in Figure 8 and 9 which schematically in the form of graphical flowcharts illustrate the steps 102-105.

[0083] Figure 8 illustrates that the bracket 2a is secured to a surface via a rail arrangement 50 and that the edge 21a is inserted into the bracket 2a (method step 102) in a manner which may allow the solar panel 20 to rest against the rail arrangement 50. Further, Figure 8 illustrates that the solar panel is pushed upwards away from said rail arrangement 50 until an opposite force Fl acts to push the solar panel oppositely (method step 103) i.e. until resistance is met.

[0084] Accordingly, Figure 8 further illustrates that the other edge is inserted into the other bracket 2b (method step 104), this may in some aspects be performed before pushing 102. Further, Figure 8 illustrates that the second bracket 2b is secured to the rail arrangement 50 so to secure the solar panel 20 firmly and fixedly between the brackets 2a, 2b. It should be noted that the brackets 2a, 2b may be dimensioned so that, upon securing, e.g. by fastening elements, the "last" bracket, 2b, (as shown in step 105) to the rail arrangement 50, the solar panel 20 maintains a stressed state, so that the opposite force / resistance force Fl still acts upon the solar panel. The stressed state may indicate that at least one edge of the solar panel is subject to bending (i.e. affected by bending moments and / or twisting moments). Figure 9 illustrates a corresponding method as Figure 8. However, in Figure 9 method step 103 is performed by pushing the solar panel 20 downwards until an opposite force F2 acts on the solar panel 20. The solar panel mounting system 1 herein may be operable to mount a solar panel 20 in accordance with either of the manners illustrated in Figures 8 and 9.

Claims

CLAIMS1. A solar panel mounting system (1) for mounting on a surface (120), the solar panel mounting system (1) comprising: a first bracket (2a) having a first receiving portion (30) comprising a lateral first notch (10a), the first notch (10a) being arranged to receive a first edge (21a) of a solar panel (20); a second bracket (2b) having a second receiving portion (31) comprising a lateral second notch (10b), the second notch (10b) being arranged to receive an opposite second edge (21b) of said solar panel (20); wherein one of the brackets (2a, 2b) has a greater extension along a longitudinal axis (yl) of said solar panel mounting system (1) relative to said second bracket (2b), wherein the first notch and the second notch (10a, 10b) face away from each other, wherein the longitudinal axis (yl) is perpendicular to a horizontal axis (zl); wherein the first receiving portion (30) comprises a first rigid upper jaw (30a) and a first rigid lower jaw (30b), the first rigid upper jaw (30a) comprising a first inward upper surface (30a') which faces a first inward lower surface (30b') of the first rigid lower jaw (30b), wherein the first inward upper surface and the first inward lower surface (30a', 30b') at least partly define said first notch (10a); wherein the second receiving portion (31) comprises a second rigid upper jaw and a second rigid lower jaw (31a, 31b), the second rigid upper jaw (31a) comprising a second inward upper surface (31a') which faces a second inward lower surface (31b') of the second rigid lower jaw (31b), wherein the second inward upper surface and the second inward lower surface (31a', 31b') at least partly define said second notch (10b); wherein the first and the second receiving portion (30, 31) are arranged to, at a mounted state, jointly retain said solar panel (20) at an inclined position relative to said surface (120), wherein the first inward upper and first inward lower surface (31a', 31b') are dimensioned to, at said mounted state, retain the first edge (21a) at a retaining position that cause the first edge (21a) to be secured in said first receiving portion (30) provided that said second receiving portion (31) accommodates the second edge (21b).

2. The solar panel mounting system (1) according to claim 1, wherein at least an upper portion (ul, u2) of each of the first and the second bracket (2a, 2b) are integrally formed, each upper portion (ul, u2) comprising said receiving portion (30, 31), preferably each of the first and second bracket are integrally formed.

3. The solar panel mounting system (1) according to any one of claims 1 or 2, wherein each of the first inward upper surface, the first inward lower surface, the second inward upper surface and the second inward lower surface (30a', 30b', 31a', 31b') are non-parallel with said horizontal axis (zl) or, at said mounted state, non-parallel with an inclination of said surface.

4. The solar panel mounting system (1) according to any one of the claims 1-3, wherein each edge (21a, 21b) comprises a laterally protruding flap (22) having an uppermost surface (22a) and opposite lowermost surface (22L), wherein one of the surfaces (22a22L) comprises a contact area (cl) and the other one comprises, at an opposite side of said contact area (cl) a corresponding contact-free area (elf), wherein at said mounted state, at least the first receiving portion (31) is dimensioned to accommodate the first edge (21a) at a position in which the contact area (cl) abut at least a part of one of the first inward upper surface (30a') and the first inward lower surface (30b'), wherein the contact-free area (elf) is contact-free from the other one of the first inward upper surface and the first inward lower surface (30a', 30b').

5. The solar panel mounting system (1) according to any one of the claims 1-4, wherein at least one of the first inward upper surface and the first inward lower surface (30a', 30b') are non-parallel with said solar panel (20) at said mounted state, thereby retaining the first edge (21a) at a retaining position that cause the first edge (21a) to be secured in said first notch (10a) provided that said second receiving portion (31) accommodates the second edge (21b), whereby the first edge (21a) is secured by forces from the first rigid upper jaw and the first rigid lower jaw (30a, 30b) acting on a distal and a proximal portion (dl, pl) of the first edge(21a).

6. The solar panel mounting system (1) according to any one of the claims 1-5, wherein the solar panel mounting system (1) comprises a rail arrangement (50), wherein the rail arrangement is arranged to be fastened to said surface (120), the surface (120) preferably being a substantially horizontal surface, wherein the first and the second bracket are mounted to said surface via the rail arrangement, at said mounted state.

7. The solar panel mounting system according to any one of the claims 1-6, wherein a gap between an inward upper surface and corresponding inward lower surface (30a', 30b', 31a', 31b') of each bracket (2a, 2b) maintains a minimum distance greater than a thickness of each corresponding edge (21a, 21b) of the solar panel (20) at every point along the inward upper and lower surfaces (30a', 30b', 31a', 31b'), wherein each inward upper surface (30a', 31a') and corresponding inward lower surface (30b', 31b') are connected via a corresponding curve portion (c2).

8. A solar panel assembly (200) comprising: the solar panel mounting system (1) according to any one of the preceding claims; at least one solar panel (20) having a first edge (21a) and an opposite second edge (21b), the first and the second edge (21a, 21b) extending towards each other wherein in a mounted state of said solar panel assembly (200), the solar panel (20) is retained between said receiving portions (30, 31) at an inclined position, wherein the first inward upper and first inward lower surface (30a', 30b') are dimensioned to retain the first edge (21a) at a retaining position that cause the first edge (21a) to be secured in said first receiving portion (30), wherein the second receiving portion (31) accommodates the second edge (21b).

9. The solar panel assembly according to claim 8, wherein one of the first edge and the second edge (21a, 21b), in said retaining position, is deformed against a corresponding one of said inward upper surfaces and said inward lower surfaces (30a', 30b', 31a', 31b').

10. A method (100) for mounting a solar panel to the solar panel mounting system of any one of the claims 1-8, the method comprising:securing (101), directly or indirectly, one of the brackets to a surface; inserting (102) one of the edges of the solar panel into the receiving portion of said bracket; pushing (103) the solar panel downwards or upwards along the longitudinal axis towards or away from said surface, preferably at least until an opposite force acts to push the solar panel oppositely; inserting (104), prior to, or after pushing (103), the other edge in said other receiving portion; locking (105) the solar panel to said surface at said inclined position, via securing the other bracket, directly or indirectly to said surface.

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