Spring PV Module Clip for Tool-Free Strut Fastening
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional fasteners for attaching PV modules to supportive structures in solar-tracking systems are inefficient, particularly in compact spaces, and increase installation costs as tool access diminishes with evolving PV systems.
Innovation Solution
A PV module clip with a toe portion and interconnected legs, formed from a single piece of wire, that can be inserted by hand without tools, providing a low-cost and efficient fastening solution by engaging with retaining features on the mounting assembly to secure the PV module.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If conventional fasteners (bolts or rivets) are used to attach PV modules to torque tube assemblies, then the PV modules can be securely fastened, but the installation process becomes complex and costly due to tool access requirements in compact spaces
Solution Approach 1:
The PV module clip is designed to be self-installing without requiring external tools. The U-shaped body with bent legs can be manually inserted through aligned holes and automatically engage with the mounting assembly's retaining features, eliminating the need for bolts, rivets, or specialized installation tools while maintaining secure fastening
Solution Approach 2:
The invention extracts and eliminates the need for separate fastening components (bolts, nuts, rivets) and installation tools. The single-piece wire-formed clip integrates the fastening function directly into the mounting component, simplifying both the fastening mechanism and the installation process
2Reliability
If conventional fasteners are used to attach PV modules, then secure attachment is achieved, but installation costs increase due to tool requirements and installation time
Solution Approach 1:
The clip's self-installing design allows workers to manually insert and secure PV modules without stopping for tool setup or adjustment, significantly reducing installation time and improving productivity while maintaining reliable attachment through the spring-loaded leg engagement mechanism
Solution Approach 2:
The clip is designed as a single-piece wire-formed component that can be independently installed at each PV module location, allowing parallel installation across multiple modules and improving overall installation efficiency without compromising attachment reliability
3Reliability
If conventional fasteners are used in compact spaces, then PV modules can be fastened, but the process becomes difficult and time-consuming due to limited tool access
Solution Approach 1:
By removing the need for external fastening tools entirely and using a self-installing spring clip mechanism, the invention eliminates tool access problems in compact spaces while maintaining secure fastening capability through the elastic engagement of the bent legs with retaining features
Solution Approach 2:
The manual insertion and automatic engagement mechanism requires no tool manipulation in confined spaces, making installation easy and accessible even in compact areas where tool access would be difficult, while ensuring reliable fastening through the spring-loaded retention system
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
Enables quick and cost-effective installation of PV modules in compact spaces by using stored strain energy to maintain the PV module securely attached to the mounting assembly, reducing installation costs and improving efficiency.
Implementation Method 1
Enables quick and cost-effective installation of PV modules in compact spaces by using stored strain energy to maintain the PV module securely attached to the mounting assembly
Data Source
AI summary
A photovoltaic (PV) module clip, and methods of fastening a PV module to a structural member using the PV module clip, are described. In an example, a PV module clip includes a toe portion interconnected with several legs by a neck portion. The toe portion may be inserted through several aligned holes of a PV module frame and a mounting assembly strut to an underside of the strut. The neck portion may extend upward from the toe portion through the aligned holes to the legs above the strut. The legs may extend around a portion of the strut in a tensioned state, and engage with a retaining feature to hold the legs in the tensioned state. Accordingly, the legs may clamp the PV module to the mounting assembly.