Device for converting sunlight
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing solar module installations on flat roofs face challenges such as increased difficulty in roof access for maintenance, additional strain on the roof surface, and inadequate protection for electrical supply lines, due to the design of previous support structures.
Innovation Solution
A stable solar module support system featuring an open hollow profile element with a trapezoidal or wavy cross-section, which directs load into the roof structure, provides secure module positioning, and incorporates a holder with a channel-shaped deformation for easy module fixation and cable protection, allowing for safe maintenance and reduced fastening requirements.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Stability of the object's composition
If solar modules are attached directly to angle profiles on the roof, then the device provides stable support for solar modules, but access to the roof for maintenance becomes considerably more difficult
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a profile element as an intermediary component between the support structure and the solar module. This profile element creates a spatial separation that maintains structural stability while providing clearance for maintenance personnel to access the roof surface, thus resolving the contradiction between stability and ease of operation
Solution Approach 2:
The invention adds a vertical dimension to the support structure by elevating the solar module mounting position above the roof surface. This dimensional change creates sufficient clearance space below the module for maintenance access while preserving the structural stability through the profile element design
2Reliability
If the support structure is designed to carry the load safely, then the device provides reliable support, but additional strain is placed on the roof surface
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts the load-bearing function from the roof surface itself and transfers it to a dedicated support structure. The profile element and support system are designed to carry the solar module load independently, preventing this force from being imposed on the roof surface and maintaining both reliability and reducing stress
3Ease of manufacture
If the profile element is designed as an open hollow profile with trapezoidal or wavy cross-section, then the device is simple and inexpensive to produce, but additional measures are needed to protect electrical supply lines
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the cable protection function with the existing profile element structure. The open hollow profile is designed to accommodate and protect electrical supply lines within its cavity, combining structural support and cable protection into a single integrated component that remains simple and inexpensive to manufacture
4Stability of the object's composition
If holders are provided on the profile element to secure solar modules, then module positioning is stable and secure, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent designs the profile element to serve multiple functions: structural support, module positioning, and securing. The holders are integrated into the profile element design, allowing a single component to perform multiple functions and reduce overall device complexity while maintaining stable module positioning
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 ensures stable and secure solar module installation with reduced strain on the roof, easy maintenance access, and protected electrical cabling, while simplifying module exchange and accommodating uneven roof surfaces.
Implementation Method 1
at least one solar module (3) that catches the sunlight and converts it into electricity
Data Source
Figure 1
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Figure 3
AI summary
The converting device (1) has a retaining unit (2) for collecting the sunlight and for the analysis of an electricity converting solar module (3). The device is attached on a flat or low-sloped roof, where a supporting structure (5) of the roof (4) is provided with attachable supports (6). The retaining unit is provided with a profile element (7).