Pre-assembled nesting photovoltaic module bracket for solar tracker
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Solution Overview
Problem
The installation of solar tracker arrays is hindered by high upfront costs and inefficient methods, which can be exacerbated by the need for large spaces during storage and transportation due to conventional bracket configurations, and requires specialized equipment for secure mounting of photovoltaic modules on torque tubes.
Innovation Solution
Pre-assembled photovoltaic module assemblies with paired left-handed and right-handed brackets that nest together, allowing for efficient stacking and attachment to torque tubes using clamps, reducing the need for rivets and specialized equipment, and enabling easier transportation and installation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Strength
If conventional bracket configurations are used for mounting PV modules, then secure mounting is achieved, but large storage and transportation space is required
Solution Approach 1:
The bracket is designed with a nested configuration where the rear portion is positioned within the front portion, allowing brackets to stack compactly during transportation and storage while maintaining full mounting functionality when installed
2Strength
If conventional mounting methods are used, then PV modules are securely attached, but installation time and costs increase
Solution Approach 1:
The bracket is pre-assembled with the PV module at the manufacturing site before shipment, so that during installation only the pre-assembled unit needs to be attached to the torque tube, eliminating time-consuming on-site bracket assembly and reducing installation labor costs
3Strength
If rivets are used for mounting PV modules, then secure attachment is achieved, but specialized equipment is required
Solution Approach 1:
The rivet fastening mechanism is extracted and replaced with a clamp-based attachment system that secures the bracket to the torque tube without requiring rivets or specialized riveting equipment, simplifying the installation process and equipment needs
Data Source
AI summary
Photovoltaic module assemblies are mounted onto a solar tracker array torque tube via photovoltaic module brackets. The photovoltaic module brackets provide for stacking photovoltaic module assemblies in a nested configuration. The photovoltaic module assemblies are pre-assembled off-site, at a location different than the photovoltaic array installation site, and the nested configuration allows for efficient transportation of pre-assembled photovoltaic module assemblies to the installation site.