Photovoltaic Panel Mounting System with Adjustable Rail Positioning
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional photovoltaic panel mounting systems made of rigid metal materials are costly and labor-intensive to construct, requiring complex setups that do not easily accommodate adjustable orientations or spacings between panels.
Innovation Solution
A photovoltaic panel mounting system utilizing adjustable structures with cable attachments that allow for flexible positioning of panels relative to each other and to stanchions, using components like bobbin-like members and cable wraps to secure panels to cables and stanchions, reducing material costs and construction time.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Strength
If rigid metal mounting structures are used, then structural strength and stability are improved, but material cost and construction complexity increase
Solution Approach 1:
The mounting structure is divided into separate modular components including stanchions, rails, and mounting brackets that can be independently manufactured and assembled. This segmentation reduces construction complexity while maintaining overall structural strength through proper connection design between modules.
Solution Approach 2:
The mounting system incorporates adjustable elements that allow dynamic reconfiguration of panel positions and orientations. The adjustable mounting brackets and movable rail connections enable the structure to adapt to different installation requirements without requiring complete reconstruction, reducing overall construction complexity.
2Stability of the object's composition
If rigid metal mounting structures are used, then structural stability is improved, but material cost increases
Solution Approach 1:
Different portions of the mounting structure use materials and connection methods optimized for their specific functional requirements. Critical load-bearing connections use high-strength fasteners and rigid components, while non-critical portions use lighter, more cost-effective materials. This localized optimization maintains structural stability where needed while reducing overall material cost.
Solution Approach 2:
The mounting system combines different materials including metal components for structural elements and alternative materials for mounting brackets and connection elements. This composite approach leverages the strengths of different materials to achieve required structural stability while reducing dependence on expensive rigid metal throughout the entire structure.
3Strength
If conventional rigid mounting structures are used, then panel support is improved, but adaptability to different orientations and spacings decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The mounting brackets incorporate adjustable arms and pivoting connections that allow the panel orientation to be dynamically changed after installation. The rail systems allow panels to be repositioned to different spacings along the rail length, providing adaptability while maintaining secure panel support through adjustable fastening mechanisms.
Solution Approach 2:
The mounting components are designed with universal features that allow them to accommodate multiple panel orientations and spacing configurations. The adjustable brackets and rail-mounted connections serve multiple functions including supporting panels at various angles, adjusting spacing, and accommodating different panel sizes, thereby improving adaptability without sacrificing support capability.
4Strength
If conventional rigid mounting structures are used, then structural integrity is improved, but installation time and labor increase
Solution Approach 1:
The mounting structure is pre-assembled in modular segments that can be quickly installed as complete units. The segmented design with standardized connection interfaces allows workers to install entire functional modules rather than assembling individual components on-site, significantly reducing installation time while maintaining structural integrity through factory-prepared connections.
Solution Approach 2:
Mounting components are pre-configured and pre-assembled to the extent possible before site installation. Adjustment mechanisms are pre-set to common configurations, and connection elements are pre-positioned, allowing for rapid deployment at the installation site while ensuring proper structural integrity through advance preparation of critical connection points.
Data Source
AI summary
A mounting system for mounting a photovoltaic panel to a surface includes a mounting base that is supported on the surface. The mounting base defines an elongated opening that extends along an axis. A module mount can be coupled to the mounting base. The module mount includes a first mount portion that is received within the elongated opening of the mounting base such that the module mount is movable with respect to the mounting base along the axis. A second mount portion is coupled to the photovoltaic panel for mounting the photovoltaic panel to the surface through the mounting base.