Low-slope mounted photovoltaic array
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing photovoltaic array mounting systems are inefficient in terms of setup time and ease of assembly, particularly on low-slope surfaces, and lack flexibility in array orientation.
Innovation Solution
A low-slope photovoltaic array mounting system featuring short and long legs with rock-in connectors that attach to photovoltaic modules at non-vertical angles, allowing for quick assembly and flexible array configurations, including North/South and East/West orientations, with optional ballast blocks and interlocks for secure positioning.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If traditional mounting systems are used on low-slope surfaces, then structural stability can be achieved, but setup time is excessive and assembly is difficult
Solution Approach 1:
The mounting system is divided into separate modular components: bases that attach to the roof surface, legs that provide support at non-vertical angles, and rock-in connectors that secure modules to the legs. This segmentation allows for quick assembly without complex fastening operations, directly reducing setup time while maintaining stability.
Solution Approach 2:
The bases are designed with pre-formed attachment features and the legs are pre-positioned at optimal non-vertical angles. The rock-in connectors are designed to snap into place without requiring additional fastening steps. These preliminary design actions eliminate time-consuming assembly operations while ensuring structural integrity.
2Adaptability or versatility
If traditional vertical mounting legs are used, then simple structure is achieved, but flexibility in array orientation is limited
Solution Approach 1:
The legs are designed to extend upwardly at non-vertical angles rather than vertically, creating an asymmetric configuration that enables flexible array orientations including North/South and East/West arrangements. This asymmetric geometry provides adaptability for different mounting surfaces and orientations without requiring complex adjustable mechanisms.
Data Source
AI summary
A photovoltaic array mounting system for a low-slope roof having interchangeable first and second bases, with a short leg extending from the first base at a non-vertical angle and a long leg extending from the second base at a non-vertical angle, wherein the short and long legs support opposite sides of a photovoltaic module such that the module is held at a non-horizontal angle, and wherein rock-in connectors are provided on top of the short and long legs permitting fast and easy system installation.