Solar panel clamp
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Solution Overview
Problem
The installation of photovoltaic modules is labor-intensive and costly due to the traditional method of assembling clamping apparatuses on-site, which often results in lost or misplaced components and increased time and expense.
Innovation Solution
A clamping apparatus with a bolt, clamp, and support structure that can be preassembled and easily secured to a rail, featuring a support structure that positions the clamp at different distances along the bolt axis to secure photovoltaic modules, reducing the need for on-site assembly and minimizing component loss.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If clamping apparatus components (t-bolt, clamp, nut) are assembled on-site, then the module can be secured to the rail, but installation time increases and components may be lost or misplaced
Solution Approach 1:
The clamp is pre-assembled with the t-bolt and nut at the factory before shipping to the installation site. This preliminary assembly eliminates the need for on-site component assembly, preventing component loss and reducing installation time while maintaining secure attachment reliability.
2Reliability
If traditional t-bolt clamping apparatus is used, then photovoltaic modules can be secured to rails, but the installation process is labor-intensive and costly
Solution Approach 1:
The clamp assembly is pre-assembled with the t-bolt and nut at the factory, creating a ready-to-install unit. This eliminates multiple on-site assembly steps, reducing labor intensity and installation cost while maintaining reliable module securing.
Solution Approach 2:
The clamp, t-bolt, and nut are combined into a single pre-assembled unit. This merging of components simplifies the installation process by reducing the number of separate parts to handle and assemble, thereby improving productivity without compromising the securing function.
3Adaptability or versatility
If components are assembled on-site, then flexibility in installation is maintained, but component loss and increased cost occur
Solution Approach 1:
The clamp is pre-assembled with the t-bolt and nut at the factory, creating a complete installation unit that maintains flexibility in terms of when and where installation occurs, while eliminating the risk of component loss during the process.
Data Source
AI summary
A clamping apparatus secures a photovoltaic module to a rail. The clamping apparatus includes a bolt extending between a first end and a second end of the bolt. The clamping apparatus includes a clamp defining a bolt opening into which the bolt is received and a support structure. The support structure positions the clamp at a first location on the bolt. The first location is a first distance from a top rail surface plane within which a top surface of the rail lies. The support structure is adjustable to position the clamp at a second location on the bolt. The second location is a second distance from the top rail surface plane. The first distance is different than the second distance. The support structure has a support structure thickness corresponding to a third distance that is less than the first distance and less than the second distance.