Conduit Mount Bracket With Dual-Catch Clip for Roof Penetrations
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Solution Overview
Problem
The solar energy industry faces challenges in mounting PV modules on structures like roofs, where limited space and the risk of damaging conduits and other components due to water or weather-related issues exist, often requiring multiple holes to be drilled, which can lead to leaks.
Innovation Solution
A conduit mount system comprising a bracket and clip that securely holds conduits away from the structure's surface, reducing the need for drilling and minimizing damage, with adjustable features to accommodate various conduit sizes and materials, and the ability to be mounted to existing hardware like flashing or rails.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If multiple holes are drilled in the roof to mount conduits and components, then components can be securely mounted, but the risk of creating leaks increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple mounting functions into a single integrated bracket assembly. The bracket simultaneously mounts the conduit and provides sealing through integrated flashings that engage with existing roof penetrations, eliminating the need for separate mounting holes for conduit support and sealing.
Solution Approach 2:
The bracket assembly serves multiple functions: structural support for the conduit, weather sealing through flashings, and electrical grounding capability. This multi-functional design reduces the number of separate components and mounting points needed, thereby reducing leak risk while maintaining mounting security.
2Ease of manufacture
If conduits are mounted directly on the roof surface, then installation is simpler, but the conduits are vulnerable to water and weather damage
Solution Approach 1:
The bracket assembly acts as an intermediary between the roof and the conduit. It provides elevated mounting that positions the conduit away from direct water exposure while maintaining secure attachment, thus protecting the conduit from weather damage without complicating installation.
3Adaptability or versatility
If additional components are mounted on the roof, then system functionality is enhanced, but the limited roof space is consumed
Solution Approach 1:
The bracket assembly utilizes vertical space by elevating the conduit above the roof surface. This dimensional approach allows components to be mounted in three-dimensional space rather than consuming additional horizontal roof area, thereby enhancing system functionality while preserving limited roof space.
Data Source
AI summary
A conduit mount including a bracket and a clip. The bracket is defined at least by a first arm, a second arm, and a horizontal portion joining the first arm to the second arm. The bracket includes, a slot located on the first arm, a first catch disposed on the second arm proximate a distal end of the second arm, and a second catch disposed on the second arm and spaced a distance apart from the first catch. The clip includes a first end and a second end. The clip further includes a retaining member disposed on the first end of the clip and shaped to be insertable through the slot in the bracket. The clip also includes a hook disposed on the second end of the clip that optionally engages the first catch or the second catch.