Multi-level mounting system
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Solution Overview
Problem
The existing mounting systems for solar panels and other objects require multiple distinct components to accommodate different sizes and heights, making it cumbersome for contractors to carry and stock various components, and complicating the installation process.
Innovation Solution
A multi-level mounting system with a base member and an object mount connector that engage in multiple orientations, allowing for adjustable height without swapping components, using correspondingly shaped convexities and concavities, and a sliding engagement mechanism to provide multiple height variations with a single object mount connector.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If multiple distinct sized components are manufactured to accommodate different sizes and heights of solar panel systems, then the system can adapt to various installation requirements, but it becomes cumbersome and inconvenient for contractors to carry and keep in stock the multiple different sized components
Solution Approach 1:
The mounting system employs a universal base member with a standardized interface that can accommodate multiple solar panel sizes and heights. The base member features a flat plate with mounting holes and a vertical mounting portion with a channel, creating a universal connection point that works with various panel configurations without requiring different sized components.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces height adjustment through a third dimension by incorporating a vertical mounting portion with a channel that receives a ball stud. This vertical dimension allows the solar panel to be positioned at multiple heights above the mounting surface while using the same base member, thereby achieving versatility without multiplying components.
2Adaptability or versatility
If multiple distinct sized components are manufactured to accommodate different sizes and heights of solar panel systems, then the system can adapt to various installation requirements, but it complicates the installation process
Solution Approach 1:
The universal base member with standardized mounting holes and a vertical channel interface serves all installation height requirements, eliminating the need for contractors to select from multiple component sizes during installation. This universality simplifies the installation process while maintaining adaptability to different panel configurations.
Solution Approach 2:
The mounting system incorporates adjustable height capability through the ball stud engaging with the vertical channel at different positions. This dynamic adjustment feature allows installers to set the desired panel height during installation without requiring pre-selection of fixed-height components, thereby reducing installation complexity.
3Quantity of substance
If a single object mount connector is designed to form multiple heights through sliding engagement, then inventory requirements are reduced, but the mechanism requires correspondingly shaped convexities and concavities which increases manufacturing complexity
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple height-adjustment functions into a single base member by integrating the vertical mounting portion with the flat plate. The ball stud and channel mechanism are merged with the base member structure, allowing one component to perform the function of what would traditionally require multiple distinct mounting components of different heights.
Solution Approach 2:
The vertical mounting portion is segmented into a channel with designated engagement positions that receive the ball stud. This segmentation creates discrete height positions within a single continuous structure, allowing the base member to provide multiple fixed height options while maintaining a unified manufacturable component design.
Data Source
AI summary
A tiered mounting system includes a base plate including a mounting guide rail having a plurality of mounting grooves that extend along opposing sides of the guide rail. The system also includes an object mount connector having a plurality of mounting ridges. The object mount connector is configured to: slidingly engage the mounting guide rail via insertion of one or more of the plurality of mounting ridges within a corresponding one or more of the plurality of mounting grooves, and lock in place along the mounting guide rail via a bolt placed through the object mount connector and secured tightly to an inner track of the mounting guide rail.