Adjustable clip assembly for solar modules

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing solar power systems face challenges in efficiently and accurately mounting multiple solar modules side-by-side on support structures, as current coupling methods often fail to ensure proper alignment and secure attachment, especially when accommodating modules of varying sizes.

Innovation Solution

The introduction of adjustable clip assemblies comprising a base member, an elastomeric support member, and a bracket member, which include alignment and locking mechanisms, allowing for sliding attachment along a rail and secure positioning of solar modules, accommodating different sizes and ensuring proper alignment.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Adaptability or versatility

If traditional coupling members are used to mount solar modules side-by-side, then the mounting process can be completed, but proper alignment and secure attachment cannot be ensured, especially when accommodating modules of varying sizes

Engineering Contradiction:

ImproveAccommodation of varying module sizesVSAvoidAlignment precision

Core Design Contradiction:

Adaptability or versatilityVSManufacturing precision

Solution Approach 1:

The clip assembly incorporates a sliding mechanism that allows dynamic adjustment along the rail to accommodate different module sizes. The clip can be positioned at various locations along the rail and secured at the desired position, providing adaptability while maintaining alignment precision through the sliding and locking mechanism.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #15Dynamics

Solution Approach 2:

The clip assembly is designed as a universal mounting solution that can accommodate solar modules of varying sizes and configurations. The same clip design can be used across different module types by adjusting its position along the rail, eliminating the need for multiple specialized coupling members.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

2Adaptability or versatility

If adjustable clip assemblies with sliding mechanisms are introduced, then adaptability to different module sizes is improved, but the complexity of the coupling mechanism increases

Engineering Contradiction:

ImproveAdjustability for different module sizesVSAvoidClip assembly structure

Core Design Contradiction:

Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The clip assembly is divided into distinct functional segments: the sliding portion that moves along the rail, the locking mechanism that secures the position, and the attachment portion that connects to the solar module. This segmentation allows each component to perform its specific function efficiently while keeping the overall design manageable.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The sliding mechanism acts as an intermediary between the fixed rail structure and the adjustable clip position. This intermediary element enables smooth adjustment while maintaining structural integrity, reducing the complexity that would arise from direct rigid connections.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

3Manufacturing precision

If multiple components (base member, elastomeric support member, bracket member, alignment member) are integrated into the clip assembly, then alignment and securing functions are improved, but the number of parts and assembly complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:

ImproveAlignment accuracyVSAvoidNumber of components

Core Design Contradiction:

Manufacturing precisionVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

Multiple functional components are merged into a single integrated clip assembly unit. The base member, elastomeric support member, bracket member, and alignment member are combined into one assembly that functions as a complete mounting solution, reducing the number of separate parts to manage while maintaining all necessary alignment and securing functions.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #5Merging (Combining)

Solution Approach 2:

The clip assembly components are nested within each other in a hierarchical structure. The alignment member is positioned within the bracket member, which is attached to the elastomeric support member, which in turn is mounted on the base member. This nesting arrangement consolidates multiple functions into a compact integrated unit.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #7Nested doll (Nesting)

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

The solution enables flexible and secure mounting of solar modules on rails, allowing for easy adjustment and secure attachment, improving the efficiency and reliability of solar power systems by ensuring proper alignment and stability across various module sizes.

Implementation Method 1

an elastomeric support member sandwiched between the base member and the bracket member

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectElasticity: Elasticity

Data Source

PatentUS10868490B1Adjustable clip assembly for solar modules

Publication Date: 2020.12.15 NEXTPOWER LLC

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.