PV Mounting Clip With Integral Grounding for Universal Frames

Solution Overview

Problem

Conventional combined mounting/grounding devices for photovoltaic (PV) modules require special flanges and clips, limiting their use to specific module frame geometries and necessitating separate grounding wires, which are costly and difficult to install.

Innovation Solution

The development of electrically conductive mounting/grounding clips with frame surface-disrupting elements, such as teeth, that can be used with various PV module frames, providing both mounting and electrical grounding functions without the need for external flanges or specialized frame designs, and can be easily secured from above.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Adaptability or versatility

If conventional combined mounting/grounding devices are used, then electrical grounding is achieved, but the device is limited to specific module frame geometries and requires special flanges

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvecompatibility with different module frame geometriesVSAvoidrequirement for special flanges and specialized clips

Core Design Contradiction:

Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The mounting clip is designed to perform multiple functions: mechanical mounting of the PV module and electrical grounding through direct contact with the conductive frame. The clip includes a mounting portion for securing the module and a grounding portion with conductive elements that contact the frame, eliminating the need for separate grounding wires and special flanges.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

Solution Approach 2:

The grounding function is merged with the mounting function into a single integrated clip assembly. The grounding portion is combined with the mounting portion, and the conductive frame contact is integrated into the clip structure itself, rather than being a separate component.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #5Merging (Combining)

2Reliability

If separate grounding wires are used, then electrical grounding is achieved, but material and installation costs increase

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveelectrical groundingVSAvoidmaterial costs for grounding wires

Core Design Contradiction:

ReliabilityVSQuantity of substance

Solution Approach 1:

The grounding function is merged with the mounting function into a single integrated clip assembly. The grounding portion is combined with the mounting portion, and the conductive frame contact is integrated into the clip structure itself, rather than being a separate component.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #5Merging (Combining)

Solution Approach 2:

The separate grounding wire is extracted from the system and replaced by the integrated grounding portion of the clip that makes direct contact with the conductive frame. This eliminates the need for additional grounding wires while maintaining the grounding function.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #2Taking out (Extraction)

3Strength

If conventional mounting devices are used, then mechanical securement is achieved, but electrical grounding requires additional components and installation steps

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvemechanical securementVSAvoidinstallation complexity for grounding

Core Design Contradiction:

StrengthVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The grounding function is merged with the mounting function into a single integrated clip assembly. The grounding portion is combined with the mounting portion, and the conductive frame contact is integrated into the clip structure itself, rather than being a separate component.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #5Merging (Combining)

Data Source

PatentUS7780472B2Photovoltaic module mounting clip with integral grounding

Publication Date: 2010.08.24 UNIRAC INC

AI summary

An electrically conductive mounting/grounding clip, usable with a photovoltaic (PV) assembly of the type having an electrically conductive frame, comprises an electrically conductive body. The body has a central portion and first and second spaced-apart arms extending from the central portion. Each arm has first and second outer portions with frame surface-disrupting element at the outer portions.