Spring Steel Grounding Clip for PV Frame Contact Reliability
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current methods for grounding photovoltaic panels require extensive wiring and on-site intervention by authorized electricians, are time-consuming, and may not ensure reliable electrical contact due to insulating finishes on metal frames, and are not compatible with all panel types or support structures.
Innovation Solution
A self-locking metal connection device made of spring steel with pointed teeth end zones that embed into both the panel frame and support structure, providing a secure and reliable electrical connection with negligible ohmic resistance, compatible with various panel and support configurations.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If wiring by means of insulated copper conductor and lugs is used to ground photovoltaic panels, then electrical connection can be established, but the installation time and complexity increase significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the electrical connection function and mechanical grounding function into a single integrated metal clip device. This eliminates the need for separate copper conductors, lugs, and multiple connection steps, thereby reducing device complexity while maintaining reliable electrical connection through the conductive metal body of the clip itself
Solution Approach 2:
The metal clip serves multiple functions simultaneously: it provides mechanical support for the photovoltaic panel, establishes electrical grounding connection, and ensures mechanical stability through the folded structure. This multi-functionality eliminates the need for separate wiring components and reduces overall system complexity
2Reliability
If traditional wiring methods with lugs and screws are used, then electrical connection can be made, but the on-site intervention time and labor requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The metal clip is pre-formed with the appropriate geometry, folding structure, and conductive path before installation. This preliminary preparation eliminates the need for on-site bending, wiring, and complex assembly operations, allowing installers to simply attach the pre-configured clip to achieve reliable grounding quickly
Solution Approach 2:
The folded structure of the metal clip enables self-locking and self-retention upon installation without requiring additional fasteners, adhesives, or complex assembly steps. The clip automatically secures itself to the mounting structure while maintaining electrical contact, reducing the need for skilled electrician intervention and minimizing installation time
3Ease of operation
If metal frames with insulating finishing layers are connected using lugs and screws, then electrical connection can be attempted, but the connection quality is not guaranteed due to insulating layers
Solution Approach 1:
The metal clip is designed with specific local characteristics at its contact surfaces, including geometry and surface properties optimized for penetrating or bypassing insulating finishing layers on metal frames. This local adaptation ensures reliable electrical contact at the critical interface between the clip and the photovoltaic panel frame, while the rest of the clip maintains its structural and conductive functions
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, reliable, and economical grounding of photovoltaic panels without the need for extensive wiring, ensuring consistent electrical contact and mechanical stability, even on inclined surfaces, while allowing for easy installation and maintenance.
Implementation Method 1
The blade is made of spring steel and has a shape and properties of elasticity allowing it to become embedded in the metal material of both the frame and the support structure in the manner of a harpoon with constant pressure
Implementation Method 2
said self-connecting end zones comprising pointed teeth arranged to be embedded in the metal material of said frame and said support structure, and being formed on a bent portion of said metal blade
Data Source
Figure 1~2
Figure 3A~6B
Figure 4~5
AI summary
The present invention relates to a separate connection device (40) to be inserted between a metal frame (3) of an electrical component (1) and a metal supporting structure (20) for electrically and separately connecting said frame to said supporting structure, said connection device (40) comprising a metal spring steel blade comprising two self-connecting end areas (45, 46) arranged in separate planes and comprising sets of sharp teeth (47) in order to be embedded in the metal material, and being formed such that, over a folded portion of said metal blade, the sets of teeth (37, 47) extend in opposite directions and in planes intended to intersect the planes of said frame (3) and said supporting structure (20) when the connection device is mounted.