Panel mounting bracket with grounding mid-clamp and related methods
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing solar panel mounting fixtures on rooftops are not adequately simplified or expedited for installation, often requiring complex rail and clamp systems that can be difficult and dangerous to use, especially during windy or stormy conditions.
Innovation Solution
A system of panel mounting brackets with vertical extensions and interior clamps that allow solar panels to be securely attached directly to the rooftop without the need for additional rails, featuring adjustable thickness arms and serrated surfaces for improved grip and grounding, enabling individual panel installation and removal without disturbing adjacent panels.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If traditional rail and clamp systems are used for solar panel installation, then panels can be securely mounted on rooftops, but the installation process becomes complex and difficult to perform safely
Solution Approach 1:
The mounting system is divided into separate functional components: a mounting bracket that attaches to the roof structure, and a clamp assembly that secures the panel. The bracket includes a base portion for roof attachment and a vertical extension that receives the clamp, allowing independent installation of each component and simplifying the overall process
Solution Approach 2:
The vertical extension acts as an intermediary element between the mounting bracket and the clamp assembly. It provides a standardized interface (fastener channel) that simplifies connection while maintaining secure mounting, bridging the gap between structural attachment and panel securing functions
2Reliability
If complex rail systems are used for panel mounting, then panels can be securely attached, but installation time and complexity increase
Solution Approach 1:
The mounting bracket is pre-assembled with the vertical extension and fastener channel before panel installation. This preliminary preparation allows the clamp to be directly attached to a ready-made structure, eliminating the need for on-site rail assembly and significantly reducing installation time while maintaining mounting stability
Solution Approach 2:
The mounting bracket serves multiple functions: it provides structural attachment to the roof, positions the clamp assembly, and enables secure panel mounting. This multi-functionality eliminates the need for separate rail components, reducing both installation time and system complexity while maintaining reliability
Data Source
AI summary
A system for mounting a plurality of solar panels on a building may include mounting brackets each including a base to be positioned on the building and a vertical extension coupled to the base. A plurality of interior mounting clamps may each include a leg to be coupled to the vertical extension of a given panel mounting bracket. Each interior mounting clamp may also include a first lateral arm coupled to a distal end of the leg on a first side thereof for securing a first panel to the given panel mounting bracket with the first lateral arm having a first thickness, and a second lateral arm coupled to the distal end of the leg on a second side thereof opposite the first side for securing a second panel to the given panel mounting bracket with the second lateral arm having a second thickness less than the first thickness.