Bonding clamp as photovoltaic module mounting equipment
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Solution Overview
Problem
Photovoltaic module mounting assemblies often lack variability to accommodate PV modules of varying thicknesses, as they are typically designed for specific uses and module thicknesses, limiting their adaptability to different situations.
Innovation Solution
An adjustable bonding clamp that can secure PV modules of different thicknesses, featuring a top bracket with a channel and flanges to capture and secure the modules, along with a fastener system that allows for adjustable spacing and electrical contact through bonding pins, enabling secure mounting of modules with varying thicknesses.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If PV module mounting assemblies are designed for a specific PV module thickness, then the mounting assembly can securely hold that specific thickness, but it cannot accommodate PV modules having varying thicknesses
Solution Approach 1:
The mounting assembly incorporates adjustable components that allow dynamic reconfiguration to accommodate different PV module thicknesses. The top and bottom brackets can be positioned at different vertical distances, and the spacing mechanism enables continuous adjustment rather than being fixed for a single thickness.
Solution Approach 2:
The mounting assembly is designed to perform multiple functions by accommodating various PV module thicknesses within a single device configuration. The universal design allows the same mounting assembly to be used across different applications and module types without requiring multiple specialized assemblies.
2Adaptability or versatility
If PV module mounting assemblies are designed with a specific use in mind, then the assembly can be optimized for that specific application, but it lacks variability to be implemented in various situations
Solution Approach 1:
The mounting assembly is divided into separate top and bottom brackets that can be independently positioned and adjusted. This segmentation allows each component to be manufactured using standard processes while the combination provides versatile adjustment capabilities for different mounting situations.
3Adaptability or versatility
If mounting assemblies use fixed spacing, then the structure is simple and easy to manufacture, but it cannot accommodate modules of varying thicknesses
Solution Approach 1:
The spacing mechanism transitions from a fixed to a dynamic adjustable system, allowing the vertical distance between top and bottom brackets to be modified based on the PV module thickness being mounted.
Data Source
AI summary
A bonding clamp includes a top bracket including opposing side walls defining a channel therebetween. The top bracket has an aperture through a central portion thereof. The top bracket is shaped to receive a first photovoltaic (“PV”) module on a first side and a second PV module on a second side. A bottom bracket includes a body and a pair of top flanges extending vertically from a top surface of the body. The pair of top flanges are spaced apart from each other. The bottom bracket also includes anti-rotation flanges extending from a bottom surface of body. A fastening mechanism fastens the top bracket in a fixed position with respect to the bottom bracket.