Assembly for clamping and grounding objects
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing solutions for clamping multiple objects together while providing a grounding path are either insufficient in electrical grounding capacity or overly complex in design and manufacturing, making them unsuitable for efficient and easy installation.
Innovation Solution
A fastener and washer assembly with raised portions that penetrate metallic surfaces, forming a secure grip and electrical contact between objects, allowing for easy manufacturing and installation, and providing multiple grounding paths between clamped objects.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of manufacture
If existing clamping devices use simple structures without penetration features, then ease of manufacture is improved, but electrical grounding capacity is insufficient
Solution Approach 1:
The fastener incorporates raised portions (teeth) at specific locations on its surface that are capable of penetrating the coated surface of metallic objects. These localized penetration features provide electrical grounding capability only where needed, while the rest of the fastener maintains its simple manufactured structure. This resolves the contradiction by adding grounding functionality locally without requiring complex structures throughout the entire fastener.
2Reliability
If existing clamping devices use multiple components (channel member, clamp, washer, nut, bolt, spring), then grounding capability is achieved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The invention combines multiple functions into a single integrated fastener component. The fastener simultaneously provides clamping force (through its structural design), electrical grounding (through raised portions that penetrate the coated surface), and mechanical fastening (through thread engagement). This merges the functions previously requiring separate components (clamp, washer, grounding element) into one unified part, reducing device complexity while maintaining grounding capability.
Solution Approach 2:
The fastener is designed as a multi-functional component that performs multiple roles: it acts as a clamping element, a grounding electrode, and a fastening mechanism all in one. The raised portions on the fastener surface enable it to penetrate coated surfaces and establish electrical contact, while its threaded shank and head provide fastening capability. This universality eliminates the need for separate grounding components, simplifying the overall assembly.
3Reliability
If existing solutions use complex assemblies with multiple parts, then grounding paths are provided, but ease of operation and installation deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
By integrating the grounding function directly into the fastener body through raised portions, the invention eliminates the need for separate grounding components and assembly steps. The fastener simultaneously provides clamping and grounding functions in a single installation action, improving ease of operation and installation while maintaining reliable grounding paths.
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 assembly securely clamps objects together while establishing reliable electrical grounding paths, enhancing the ease of use and manufacturing complexity, particularly effective in applications like affixing solar panel frames to mounting rails.
Implementation Method 1
the teeth of the t-bolt penetrate through the coated surface to make electrical contact with the metallic rail while the teeth of the washer penetrate through the coated surface to make electrical contact with the metallic solar panel frame. A grounding path is then formed from the solar panel frame to the mounting rail via the washer and the t-bolt.
Data Source
AI summary
In various representative aspects, an apparatus for clamping and grounding solar panel frames to a mounting rail is disclosed herein. The apparatus includes a fastener with an enlarged end, and a shank, with the enlarged end having one or more sharp protrusions that resemble teeth, and a washer with one or more sharp protrusions, and an opening. When installed, the shank is inserted through the opening of the washer, the sharp protrusions of the enlarged end penetrate either the lower or upper surface of the mounting rail and the sharp protrusions of the washer penetrate the other surface of the solar panel frames while at the same time creating a grounding path through the apparatus.