Carrier structure for solar panels and method of producing such a carrier structure
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing carrier structures for solar panels on horizontal or slightly diagonal roofs are bulky, difficult to handle, labor-intensive to construct, and susceptible to wind loads, making them costly and unstable.
Innovation Solution
A modular carrier structure with a carrying frame and accessory that utilize snap fastening mechanisms, such as coupling pins and resilient locking elements, to securely attach accessories like wind guards, allowing for quick and easy assembly without screws or adhesives, enhancing stability and reducing wind susceptibility.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Strength
If a plastic carrier tray is used to carry solar panels, then the carrier structure is bulky and heavy, but it becomes difficult to handle
Solution Approach 1:
The carrier structure is divided into multiple separate components: a frame structure, carriers for holding solar panels, and accessories. These modular components can be assembled and disassembled easily, improving handling ease while maintaining the overall strength through proper connection mechanisms.
2Ease of operation
If a modular carrier structure is constructed from several components attached by screws, then it is easier to handle, but it becomes labor-intensive and costly to construct
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the traditional screw-based mechanical fastening system with a snap-fit connection system. The connectors on the frame structure engage with corresponding receptacles on the carriers and accessories through elastic deformation, eliminating the need for screws, nuts, or other fastening elements. This substitution dramatically reduces assembly time and labor requirements while maintaining connection strength.
3Ease of manufacture
If traditional carrier structures are used, then they are easy to construct, but they become relatively susceptible to wind loads
Solution Approach 1:
The modular design allows for strategic placement of multiple connection points between the frame structure and carriers/accessories. This segmentation of the support system distributes wind loads across multiple attachment points, reducing the stress on any single connection point and improving overall resistance to wind loads.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent employs a composite structure combining the frame structure with multiple carriers and accessories that work together as an integrated system. This composite approach creates a more aerodynamically stable assembly that better resists wind loads compared to simple single-piece carrier trays.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
The solution enables a cost-effective, simple, and stable carrier structure that can be easily assembled and disassembled, providing improved durability and resistance to wind loads, thus enhancing the service life and handling of solar panel installations.
Implementation Method 1
the receiving space is provided with at least one resilient locking element which is configured to engage in a clamping manner with an external side of the coupling pin
Data Source
AI summary
The invention relates to a carrier structure (1) for solar panels. The invention also relates to a carrier (6) for use in a carrier structure (1) according to the invention. The invention then relates to an accessory (3) for use in a carrier structure (1) according to the invention. The invention furthermore relates to an assembly of at least one carrier structure (1) and at least one solar panel. In addition, the invention relates to a method for producing a carrier structure (1) according to the invention.