Universal Microinverter Bracket for Variable PV Panel Frames
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing microinverter mounting brackets are designed specifically for particular PV panel frame geometries, limiting their interchangeability with different panel sizes and shapes.
Innovation Solution
A universal mounting bracket with a central bracket portion and extension portions that can be oriented perpendicular to the panel frame, allowing secure attachment of microinverters to various PV panel frames regardless of size or geometry, including a first extension portion coupled to the microinverter housing and second and third extension portions in contact with the panel frame to create spacing and accommodate different geometries.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a traditional mounting bracket is designed for a specific PV panel frame geometry, then the microinverter can be securely fastened to that particular frame, but the bracket cannot be used with different panel frame geometries
Solution Approach 1:
The mounting bracket is designed with a universal configuration that can accommodate multiple PV panel frame geometries. The bracket includes a mounting plate with multiple holes arranged in specific patterns, and extension portions that can be positioned at different locations, allowing the same bracket design to work with various panel sizes and frame shapes without requiring different bracket models.
Solution Approach 2:
The mounting bracket is divided into distinct functional portions: a mounting plate with multiple holes and several extension portions. These segments can be independently positioned and configured to match different panel geometries, providing flexibility while maintaining a relatively simple overall bracket design.
2Adaptability or versatility
If the mounting bracket is designed with fixed geometry matching a specific microinverter, then secure attachment is achieved, but interchangeability with different panel frames is limited
Solution Approach 1:
The mounting bracket incorporates adjustable elements including multiple holes in the mounting plate and extension portions that can be positioned at different locations. This dynamic configuration allows the bracket to adapt its geometry to match different panel frames while maintaining secure attachment through proper alignment and fastening at the selected positions.
Solution Approach 2:
The bracket design allows for changes in effective geometry by selecting different combinations of holes and extension portion positions. This parameter adjustment enables the same physical bracket to achieve secure attachment across various panel frame geometries by optimizing the mounting configuration for each specific application.
Data Source
AI summary
A system and method for a photovoltaic (PV) module is disclosed that includes a microinverter assembly having a housing disposed on an inactive surface of a PV panel and a microinverter disposed within the housing. The PV module also includes a mounting bracket having a central bracket portion coupled to a frame of the PV panel, a first extension portion extending from the central bracket portion and coupled to the housing, a second extension portion extending from the central bracket portion and positioned on the inactive side of the PV panel, and a third extension portion located above the second extension portion and extending from the central bracket portion. At least one of the second and third extension portions is in contact with an inner wall of the frame of the PV panel.