Expansion Clamp for Solar Panel Thermal Movement
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional support structures for solar panels lack the ability to accommodate thermal expansion and contraction, leading to potential failure and require specialized tools for assembly, which is time-consuming.
Innovation Solution
A clamp system with a clamping head and rotatable nut that allows for thermal expansion and contraction while providing structural rigidity, eliminating the need for specialized tools like torque wrenches for assembly.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If conventional hardware connection mechanisms (bolts, nuts, washers) are used to secure support structure components, then structural integrity is achieved, but the structure cannot accommodate thermal expansion or contraction
Solution Approach 1:
The clamp incorporates a dynamic mechanism where the clamping force is applied at an angle to the bore axis, allowing the connection to flex and accommodate thermal expansion while maintaining structural integrity. The asymmetric clamping arrangement enables movement in one direction while preserving connection strength.
Solution Approach 2:
The invention changes the parameters of the clamping force by applying it at a specific angle rather than directly along the bore axis. This angular application of force creates both clamping pressure for structural integrity and a component that allows for thermal expansion movement.
2Reliability
If conventional hardware connection mechanisms are used, then structural integrity is achieved, but specialized tools like torque wrenches are required which increases assembly time
Solution Approach 1:
The clamp is designed to be self-adjusting and self-clamping. The asymmetric geometry and angled force application allow the connection to self-regulate and secure components without requiring external torque measurement tools, eliminating the need for torque wrenches and reducing assembly time.
Solution Approach 2:
The invention replaces the conventional torque-based mechanical fastening system with a geometry-based self-clamping mechanism. Instead of relying on torque wrenches to achieve proper clamping force, the asymmetric clamp geometry inherently provides the correct clamping force through its structural design.
3Strength
If conventional hardware connections are used, then components are securely fastened, but the connection does not allow for movement during thermal expansion
Solution Approach 1:
The clamp creates a dynamic connection that maintains strong clamping force while allowing controlled movement. The angled application of clamping force relative to the bore axis enables the connection to flex during thermal expansion while preserving structural strength.
Solution Approach 2:
The asymmetric clamping arrangement applies force locally at specific points to maintain strength where needed, while creating clearance and flexibility in other areas to accommodate thermal movement. The localized clamping force preserves strength without restricting necessary movement.
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 clamp system ensures structural integrity and allows for thermal expansion and contraction, simplifying the installation process by not requiring specialized tools, thus enhancing efficiency and reliability.
Implementation Method 1
The clamp may include a spring that provides a clamp force to hold the clamp components together.
Implementation Method 2
the hardware connection mechanisms used to hold various components of the structure together do not readily allow for thermal expansion or contraction of the support structures
Data Source
AI summary
An assembly includes a first structure and a clamp. The first structure may have an opening located on a first surface and the opening includes a keyway. The clamp is configured to clamp a second structure to the first structure. The clamp may include a head configured to be inserted above the opening in the first structure. The clamp may also include a body coupled to the head. An upper portion of the body may include formations located on opposite sides of the body and a lower portion of the body is threaded. The clamp may further include a nut coupled to the body. The nut may be configured to be rotated such that when the formations on the body are aligned with the keyway in the first structure, the head of the clamp is configured to lower onto the second structure and secure the second structure to the first structure.