Height-Adjustable Surface Mount Assemblies for Solar Panel Leveling
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing solar panel systems face challenges in achieving level installations due to uneven installation surfaces and physical differences among solar modules, necessitating height-adjustable surface mount assemblies.
Innovation Solution
The development of height-adjustable surface mount assemblies that include bases, tracks, fasteners, and spacers, allowing for adjustable height adjustments to level solar modules above installation surfaces.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If surface mount assemblies are made height adjustable to accommodate uneven installation surfaces and physical differences between solar modules, then adaptability is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The surface mount assembly is divided into multiple height-adjustable components including telescoping legs with adjustable segments, modular brackets, and separate positioning mechanisms. This segmentation allows each component to be independently adjusted to achieve the desired height and angle configuration while maintaining overall system adaptability.
Solution Approach 2:
The assembly incorporates dynamic height adjustment mechanisms such as telescoping legs with lockable segments, adjustable brackets with movable joints, and positioning systems that allow the mount to adapt to various heights and angles. This dynamic capability enables the assembly to accommodate uneven surfaces and different solar module dimensions while managing complexity through standardized adjustment mechanisms.
2Adaptability or versatility
If multiple components are used to achieve height adjustment and leveling, then adaptability is improved, but ease of manufacture decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The surface mount assembly uses universal, multi-functional components such as standardized telescoping leg mechanisms, adjustable brackets with multiple positioning holes, and modular connection elements that can be configured for various heights and angles. These universal components simplify manufacturing by using standardized parts across different assembly configurations rather than custom components for each specific height requirement.
Solution Approach 2:
The assembly achieves height adjustment and leveling through parameter changes in standardized components, such as adjusting the extended length of telescoping legs, changing the angle of adjustable brackets, and modifying the position of mounting holes. This approach allows adaptability through simple parameter adjustments in mass-producible components rather than complex custom manufacturing.
3Adaptability or versatility
If height-adjustable mechanisms are incorporated into the surface mount assembly, then adaptability is improved, but reliability may be affected by additional moving parts
Solution Approach 1:
The surface mount assembly incorporates pre-designed locking mechanisms and stabilization features in the height-adjustable components. Telescoping legs include lockable segments that secure the selected height, adjustable brackets have fixed positioning holes that prevent movement, and connection points include locking features. These beforehand cushioning measures ensure structural stability and reliability once the height and angle are adjusted and locked, preventing unintended movement or collapse.
Data Source
AI summary
Surface mount assemblies for mounting to a solar panel frame to an installation surface are disclosed. In some embodiments, a base is coupled to a height-adjustable rail mount to slidably couple a track with a fastener assembly that includes of a fastener, spacer, and nut. In some embodiments, a base is coupled to a rail mount and positioned on a base plate to slidably couple to a surface track with a fastener assembly that includes a first fastener slidably coupled to a groove formed by the track, spacer, and second fastener. In some embodiments, a base is coupled to a rail mount for slidably coupling the rail to a height-adjustable base with a fastener. In some embodiments, a two-configuration, track-mounted, rectangular base is designed with a rectangular base having a pair of short-sided legs, a pair of long-sided legs, and a fastener for engaging outer surfaces of a track.