Device for supporting solar modules, kit, method for manufacturing, and solar module arrangement
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing solar module mounting systems lack flexibility in adjusting the angular position of solar modules on flat roofs and free-standing installations to optimize energy harvesting based on geographical location and shading conditions.
Innovation Solution
A device with a base rail and an upper support featuring movable support elements that adjust between different heights to allow for flexible angular positioning of solar modules, enabling the solar module to be mounted at various angles relative to the horizontal.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If fixed-height support systems are used, then the structure is simple and stable, but the angular position of solar modules cannot be adjusted to optimize energy harvesting
Solution Approach 1:
The support system incorporates movable support elements that can be adjusted between different positions to change the angular orientation of solar modules. The support elements are designed to be repositionable along the base rail, enabling dynamic adjustment of mounting angles while maintaining structural stability through defined stopping positions.
Solution Approach 2:
The support system is divided into modular components including a base rail, multiple interchangeable support elements, and connection mechanisms. This segmentation allows individual support elements to be adjusted or replaced independently, providing angular adjustment capability while keeping the overall system structure manageable and maintainable.
2Adaptability or versatility
If multiple support heights are provided, then different angular orientations can be achieved, but the device complexity and number of components increase
Solution Approach 1:
The support elements are designed with multi-functionality, serving both as structural supports and as angular adjustment mechanisms. The same support elements can be repositioned along the base rail to achieve different mounting angles, eliminating the need for completely separate support structures for each angle configuration.
Solution Approach 2:
The system achieves angular adjustment by changing the position parameter of support elements along the base rail rather than by introducing fundamentally different support structures. By varying the distance and height of support elements from the base rail, different angular orientations are achieved while using the same physical components.
3Ease of operation
If adjustable support elements are implemented, then manageability and adaptability improve, but transport complexity may increase
Solution Approach 1:
The support elements are designed to nest or fold together during transport, with movable parts collapsing into compact configurations. The adjustable support structures can be disassembled or folded to fit within the footprint of the base rail, minimizing transport volume while maintaining full adjustability functionality when deployed.
Data Source
AI summary
A device for supporting solar modules is provided, the device having a base rail) and an upper support arranged on the base rail for holding an upper end of a solar module. The upper support has a first support element and a second support element which are movably connected to one another in such a way that the first support element is movable relative to the second support element between a first position and a second position. The upper support extends up to a first height above the base rail when the first support element is arranged in the first position. The upper support extends up to a second height above the base rail, which is different from the first height, when the first support element is arranged in the second position. A kit, a method for manufacturing a device, and a solar module arrangement are also provided.