Universal Connector Assembly for PV Module Inverter Mounting
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Solution Overview
Problem
The installation of solar power systems is complex and labor-intensive due to the need for mechanical attachment of inverters to photovoltaic modules, which hinders efficient coupling and maintenance.
Innovation Solution
A universal connector assembly that mechanically and electrically couples inverters to photovoltaic modules, allowing for easy attachment and detachment, while providing a thermal barrier and ensuring airflow to maintain a uniform thermal profile.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Stability of the object's composition
If inverters are mechanically attached to PV modules using rigid mounting rails, then structural stability is improved, but installation complexity and labor intensity increase
Solution Approach 1:
The mounting system is divided into separate components: a mounting bracket attached to the PV module and a separate inverter mounting structure. This segmentation allows for simpler, modular installation while maintaining structural stability through the designed connection interface between components.
Solution Approach 2:
A mounting bracket serves as an intermediary component between the PV module and the inverter. This mediator simplifies the connection process by providing a standardized interface, reducing installation complexity while ensuring stable mechanical attachment.
2Productivity
If inverters are directly coupled to PV modules, then connection efficiency is improved, but thermal management and airflow are compromised
Solution Approach 1:
The mounting bracket is designed with specific local features: an open base structure at the bottom for airflow passage, and a top surface with a thermal barrier coating or material. This local quality differentiation allows the bracket to simultaneously enable efficient connection and provide thermal management where needed.
Solution Approach 2:
The mounting bracket acts as a thermal intermediary between the inverter and PV module, with its open base allowing airflow to cool the inverter while its top surface provides thermal barrier properties to protect the PV module from excessive heat transfer.
3Stability of the object's composition
If complex mechanical attachment systems are used, then structural stability is improved, but ease of installation and maintenance deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The attachment system is segmented into pre-fabricated mounting brackets that attach to PV modules and separate inverter mounting structures. This segmentation enables simple, tool-free or minimal-tool installation while maintaining structural stability through the designed connection interfaces.
Solution Approach 2:
The mounting bracket incorporates self-aligning features and snap-fit or clip-based attachment mechanisms that enable the inverter to be mounted to the PV module without complex tools or procedures, improving ease of installation and maintenance while ensuring stable connection.
Data Source
AI summary
Apparatus for coupling power generated by a photovoltaic (PV) module to an output. The apparatus comprises a universal connector assembly, comprising a connector housing, adapted for coupling to the PV module, comprising a DC connection assembly for coupling power from the PV module to a power module via a first plurality of connectors; and a base for supporting the power module spaced apart from the PV module in a manner that exposes at least a portion of the power module facing the PV module to the air and prevents air from being trapped between the power module and the PV module.