Frameless solar module mounting
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional solar tracking mechanisms are inadequate in optimizing energy conversion from solar panels due to suboptimal sun angles, leading to inefficient energy capture.
Innovation Solution
A clamp assembly for glass-on-glass solar modules that includes a torque tube system allowing modules to pivot radially, with a top-hat shaped rail structure and locking spacers to securely attach the modules to the torque tube, preventing slippage and ensuring optimal positioning for energy capture.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If conventional solar tracking mechanisms are used, then solar panels can adjust to sun angles, but the mechanisms are inadequate and fail to optimize energy conversion due to suboptimal positioning
Solution Approach 1:
The patent removes the traditional frame structure from solar modules, extracting only the essential function of mounting and tracking. This frameless design eliminates structural interference with sunlight capture while maintaining positioning capabilities through the torque tube and clamp assembly mechanism.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements a dynamic tracking system where the torque tube and clamp assembly allow solar modules to continuously adjust their position in response to changing sun angles. The radial pivoting capability enables real-time optimization of energy capture throughout the day.
2Productivity
If frame structures are used to mount solar modules, then modules can be securely attached, but the frame structure interferes with optimal sunlight capture and reduces energy conversion efficiency
Solution Approach 1:
The patent removes the frame structure entirely from solar modules, extracting only the mounting function and replacing it with a clamp assembly that attaches directly to the module edges. This eliminates the frame's interference with sunlight capture while maintaining secure attachment.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent applies mounting hardware only at the edges of solar modules where it is least intrusive to sunlight capture. The clamp assembly engages with edge regions rather than covering the active cell areas, preserving local quality for energy generation while providing structural support.
3Productivity
If solar modules are positioned for optimal sun angles, then energy conversion is maximized, but complex tracking mechanisms increase system complexity and maintenance requirements
Solution Approach 1:
The torque tube and clamp assembly serve multiple functions simultaneously: structural support, rotational movement for tracking, and secure module attachment. This multi-functionality reduces the number of separate components needed, simplifying the overall system while maintaining optimal positioning capabilities.
4Productivity
If frameless glass-on-glass solar modules are used, then sunlight capture is optimized, but the modules lack structural features for easy mounting and positioning
Solution Approach 1:
The clamp assembly acts as an intermediary component between the frameless solar modules and the mounting structure. It provides the necessary attachment features and positioning capabilities without requiring modifications to the glass-on-glass modules themselves, maintaining their optical efficiency while enabling easy installation.
Data Source
AI summary
In an example, a clamp assembly for a glass on glass solar module for a tracker is included. The assembly has a lower clamp structure characterized by a top-hat shaped rail structure having a length extending from a first end to a second end. In an example, the assembly has an upper clamp structure configured to sandwich a pair of edges of a pair of solar modules with a portion of the lower clamp structure. In an example, the assembly has a locking spacer configured to the pair of edges of the pair of solar modules. In an example, the pair of edges comprises substantially glass material. In an example, the assembly has a pair of key structures configured with the locking spacer. Each of the key structures is affixed to each of the solar modules to physically lock each of the solar modules to the upper clamp structure.