Photovoltaic Panel Supporting Beam With Integrated Locking Elements
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current methods for installing photovoltaic panels require manual labor, are mechanically complex, and involve high costs due to the need for external fastening devices and beams, leading to increased production and maintenance expenses, as well as longer installation times.
Innovation Solution
A supporting beam system with an 'omega'-like profile and integrated locking elements that allows for simplified assembly of photovoltaic panels, reducing the number of beams required and eliminating the need for external fastening devices, enabling both manual and automated installation, including the use of robots.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If manual fastening methods (rivets, screws, bolts) are used to attach photovoltaic panels to beams, then the panels can be securely fastened, but the installation requires qualified operators, increases installation time and costs, and involves mechanical complexity
Solution Approach 1:
The locking element is integrated directly into the beam structure, merging the fastening function with the support structure. This eliminates the need for separate external fastening devices (rivets, screws, bolts) while maintaining secure attachment of photovoltaic panels to the beam.
Solution Approach 2:
The locking element automatically engages with the photovoltaic panel through a self-locking mechanism. The element features a locking portion that inserts into a slot on the panel and a retaining portion that prevents removal, creating a self-servicing fastening system that does not require manual intervention for fastening operations.
2Reliability
If external hooking devices with cams, brackets, gears, or levers are installed on beams to lock panels, then the panels can be locked in position, but the device complexity increases and manual assembly and maintenance become necessary
Solution Approach 1:
The invention extracts and eliminates complex mechanical components (cams, brackets, gears, levers) from the fastening system. Only the essential locking function remains, implemented through a simplified locking element with a slot and retaining portion that achieves panel locking without auxiliary mechanisms.
Solution Approach 2:
The locking element is merged with the beam structure, eliminating the need for separate external hooking devices. The locking functionality is integrated into the beam itself, reducing the number of discrete components and simplifying the overall system architecture.
3Reliability
If traditional beam systems require multiple beams for panel support, then adequate support is provided, but the number of beams and materials required increases, leading to higher production and installation costs
Solution Approach 1:
The beam with integrated locking elements serves multiple functions simultaneously: it provides structural support for photovoltaic panels and incorporates built-in fastening capabilities. This multi-functionality reduces the need for additional specialized components and allows fewer beams to accomplish both support and attachment tasks.
4Manufacturing precision
If qualified operators perform manual assembly of hooking devices and panel attachment, then proper installation is achieved, but installation time increases and automation becomes difficult
Solution Approach 1:
The locking element performs self-alignment and self-locking through its geometric design. The slot and retaining portion configuration enables automatic engagement when the panel is positioned on the beam, eliminating the need for manual assembly operations while maintaining installation quality.
Solution Approach 2:
The invention replaces complex mechanical assembly operations with a geometric locking mechanism. Instead of requiring manual manipulation of cams, brackets, or levers, the system uses the inherent geometry of the locking element and slot to achieve proper installation through simple positioning and automatic engagement.
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
This solution significantly reduces installation time and costs, minimizes mechanical complexity, and allows for efficient assembly of photovoltaic plants, particularly in large-scale installations by reducing the number of personnel and materials needed.
Implementation Method 1
which, during the installation of the photovoltaic panel, is pushed by the frame of the photovoltaic panel so as to deform elastically and lock the photovoltaic panel in position
Data Source
Figure 1A~1B
Figure 2
Figure 3A~3B
AI summary
The present invention relates to a supporting system for photovoltaic panels and, in particular, to a supporting beam for photovoltaic panels implemented so that it eases the installation phase thereof, by allowing also the use of robot for the positioning, and at the same time it allows a reduction in production and maintenance costs.