Ballasted PV Module Support with Wind Deflection and Universal Clamping
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing mounting systems for photovoltaic modules on rooftops are not environmentally friendly, are costly, time-consuming to install, and can damage the rooftop membrane, and they often require customization for different types and brands of modules.
Innovation Solution
A mounting system comprising support members and a wind deflector that allows for the secure and adjustable placement of photovoltaic modules without penetrating the rooftop, using a universal design that accommodates various module dimensions and thermal expansion, with a wind deflector that deflects wind to reduce load and a ballast system for stability.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Strength
If prior mounting systems are used to secure PV modules to rooftops, then wind load resistance is adequate, but the rooftop membrane is damaged by penetration
Solution Approach 1:
A ballast member is introduced as an intermediary component that transfers wind loads from the PV module to the rooftop surface without penetration. The ballast member distributes the load over a larger area, preventing membrane damage while maintaining adequate wind load resistance.
Solution Approach 2:
The ballast member functions as a counterweight system, using gravity to resist uplift forces from wind loads. The weight of the ballast member counteracts the aerodynamic uplift forces, providing adequate wind load resistance without requiring penetrating fasteners.
2Adaptability or versatility
If custom fabricated mounting systems are used for each type or brand of PV module, then module-specific requirements are met, but production cost increases
Solution Approach 1:
The mounting system employs universal mounting members and ballast members that can accommodate multiple types and brands of PV modules. The elongated apertures and adjustable positioning mechanisms enable a single design to serve multiple module configurations, eliminating the need for custom fabrication for each module type.
Solution Approach 2:
The mounting system incorporates adjustable and reconfigurable components that can adapt to different module dimensions and mounting requirements. The elongated apertures allow for positional adjustment, and the system can be reconfigured for different module types without requiring custom fabrication.
3Reliability
If traditional mounting systems are used, then secure attachment is achieved, but installation time increases
Solution Approach 1:
The ballast members and mounting members are pre-assembled into ready-to-install units with integrated fastening mechanisms. The elongated apertures are pre-positioned to accommodate various module types, eliminating the need for on-site customization and reducing installation time while maintaining secure attachment.
Solution Approach 2:
The mounting system incorporates self-aligning and self-adjusting features that reduce the skill level and time required for installation. The elongated apertures automatically accommodate thermal expansion and module dimensional variations, and the ballast members self-position to provide stable support without complex alignment procedures.
4Stability of the object's composition
If rigid mounting structures are used, then structural stability is maintained, but thermal expansion and contraction are restricted
Solution Approach 1:
The mounting system incorporates elongated apertures that change their effective dimensions in response to thermal expansion and contraction. The apertures expand and contract along their length, accommodating thermal movements of both the ballast member and PV module while maintaining stable structural support through the constrained dimensions in perpendicular directions.
Data Source
AI summary
A support member for mounting photovoltaic modules on a support surface and a mounting system including the same are disclosed herein. The support member may comprise a body portion, the body portion including a ballast receiving portion for accommodating one or more ballasts, the body portion further including at least one support portion; and at least one clamp subassembly, the at least one clamp subassembly rotatably coupled to the at least one support portion of the body portion, the at least one clamp subassembly configured to be coupled to one or more photovoltaic modules, the at least one clamp subassembly including a downwardly sloped flange portion configured to facilitate an insertion of the one or more photovoltaic modules into the at least one clamp subassembly, and to limit a rotation of the at least one clamp subassembly on the at least one support portion of the body portion.