Ground mounted solar power assembly
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current solar mounting systems face high costs due to the need for long, heavy pipes and a large number of parts, which increases shipping and handling expenses and on-site assembly complexity.
Innovation Solution
A segmented pipe assembly system with a slotted hat rail design allows for adjustable solar panel mounting, using bolted segments and a clamping mechanism to accommodate different panel sizes, reducing part numbers and enabling efficient assembly with standard shipping methods.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Strength
If long, heavy pipes are used to achieve efficient array size, then the structural strength and stability are improved, but the shipping and handling costs increase significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the long pipe into multiple shorter segments that can be shipped and handled separately. These segments are then assembled on-site to form the complete support structure, maintaining the required structural strength while avoiding the handling difficulties and high costs associated with long, heavy single-piece pipes
2Adaptability or versatility
If multiple different parts are used to accommodate various solar panel sizes, then the adaptability is improved, but the number of parts and complexity increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent designs universal mounting components, particularly the hat rail with multiple holes that can accommodate different panel sizes and configurations. This single multi-functional component replaces what would otherwise require multiple different sized rails, reducing part numbers while maintaining adaptability to various solar panel dimensions
3Manufacturing precision
If direct bolt mounting is used for solar panels, then the manufacturing precision is improved, but the adaptability to different panel sizes decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent transitions from a fixed direct-bolt mounting system to a dynamic adjustable system using hat rails with multiple holes. This allows the mounting position to be adjusted along the rail to match different panel sizes and hole patterns, maintaining precise mounting while gaining flexibility across various panel dimensions
Data Source
AI summary
A solar panel assembly having at least one solar panel array pivotally connected to a plurality of legs using a support beam. Cross members are connected to the support beam and extend transversely in relation to the support beam. The cross members are also positioned in parallel spaced relation along a length of the support beam. A plurality of rail members having a top wall with a plurality of slots that extend along a length of the top wall in a first and a second row are connected to the cross members.