Stackable Photovoltaic Module Frame for Damage-Free Secure Stacking

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing stackable photovoltaic modules face challenges in mounting and stacking, as they often cause damage due to sharp edges and require complex mounting processes, and existing solutions for preventing slipping are either costly or inefficient.

Innovation Solution

A stackable photovoltaic module design featuring a frame composed of interconnected frame elements with miter joints and rounded projections and recesses, allowing for easy assembly and secure stacking without damage, using connectors for connection and a hollow chamber profile for cable management and weight reduction.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Stability of the object's composition

If anti-slip elements with sharp edges are used to prevent frames from slipping, then the anti-slip function is improved, but the frame surface is damaged

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveanti-slip functionVSAvoidframe surface damage

Core Design Contradiction:

Stability of the object's compositionVSObject-affected harmful factors

Solution Approach 1:

The patent replaces sharp-edged anti-slip elements with rounded projections and recesses. The rounded geometry maintains the interlocking anti-slip function while eliminating concentrated stress points that cause frame surface damage during stacking operations.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #14Spheroidality (Curvature)

Solution Approach 2:

The patent converts the potentially harmful sharp edges into beneficial rounded features. The rounded projections and recesses create a gentler contact interface that prevents damage while still providing effective anti-slip functionality through geometric interlocking.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #22Blessing in disguise (Convert harm into benefit)

2Stability of the object's composition

If hollow frame profiles are used for stacking, then the anti-slip function is improved, but the mounting process becomes complex

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvestacking stabilityVSAvoidmounting complexity

Core Design Contradiction:

Stability of the object's compositionVSEase of manufacture

Solution Approach 1:

The patent divides the frame into separate elements that can be independently manufactured and then assembled. This segmentation simplifies the mounting process by allowing individual frame components to be attached to photovoltaic modules before stacking, rather than requiring complex integration of complete hollow frame profiles.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #1Segmentation

Data Source

PatentUS12191801B2Stackable photovoltaic module

Publication Date: 2025.01.07 KOBA HLDG GMBH

AI summary

A stackable photovoltaic module including at least one photovoltaic element which is circumferentially surrounded by a frame. The frame has at least one projection and at least one recess which engage in one another when a first frame is arranged on a second frame. The frame consists of a plurality of frame elements which are connected by at least one connector.