Adjustable clip assembly for solar modules
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing solar power systems face challenges in efficiently mounting and securing solar modules to support structures, particularly in ensuring proper alignment and stability of adjacent modules when assembled in arrays.
Innovation Solution
The use of adjustable clip assemblies comprising a base member, an elastomeric support member, a bracket member, and an alignment member, which allow sliding attachment to rails, providing secure and flexible mounting for solar modules of varying sizes through a combination of tangs, apertures, and locking mechanisms.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Manufacturing precision
If traditional coupling members are used to secure solar modules to rails, then the modules can be mounted, but it is challenging to ensure proper alignment and positioning of adjacent modules while assembling the array
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces an alignment member as an intermediary component between the coupling member and the solar module. This alignment member includes alignment features that extend into corresponding alignment features on adjacent modules, ensuring proper positioning and alignment during assembly without requiring high skill from the assembler.
Solution Approach 2:
The coupling member incorporates self-aligning features that automatically guide the solar module into the correct position during installation. The alignment features on the coupling member and module work together to ensure proper alignment without requiring external tools or complex assembly procedures.
2Adaptability or versatility
If fixed coupling members are used for mounting solar modules, then the installation process is simplified, but the system cannot accommodate solar modules of different sizes
Solution Approach 1:
The coupling member incorporates adjustable elements that allow it to adapt to different solar module sizes. The coupling mechanism can be adjusted along the rail to accommodate various module dimensions, providing versatility without requiring multiple specialized coupling types.
Solution Approach 2:
The coupling member is designed as a universal component that can secure various sizes of solar modules to the rail. By integrating adjustment mechanisms and alignment features, a single coupling design serves multiple functions across different module configurations, reducing the need for multiple specialized components.
3Reliability
If multiple separate components are used for secure mounting, then the reliability of module attachment is improved, but the assembly process becomes more complex and time-consuming
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple mounting functions into a single integrated coupling member. The coupling member integrates the securing mechanism, alignment features, and adjustment capabilities into one component, maintaining reliable module attachment while simplifying the assembly process and improving installation productivity.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
Enables secure and adjustable mounting of solar modules on rails, accommodating different sizes and ensuring proper alignment, thereby enhancing the stability and ease of installation of solar power systems, particularly suitable for residential, commercial, and industrial applications.
Implementation Method 1
an elastomeric support member sandwiched between the base member and the bracket member
Data Source
AI summary
The present disclosure describes a solar power system including rails, solar modules, and a plurality of adjustable clips to secure the solar modules to the rails. The clips include at least a base member, an elastomeric support member, a bracket member, and an alignment member configured to secure the various members of the clip together. The adjustable clips are configured to slide within a slot defined through a portion of a surface of a rail and including a recessed edge thereby allowing the rail system to accommodate solar modules of varying dimensions.