Photovoltaic Module Mounting Bracket With Adjustable Footer Alignment
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current mounting structures for photovoltaic modules are complex and inefficient, requiring improved apparatuses to simplify installation and enhance support for photovoltaic modules on structures like roofs.
Innovation Solution
The apparatus includes a bracket with slots and ledges, a clamp with wings, and a variably positionable footer, along with bonding clips for secure and electrical bonding of photovoltaic modules, allowing for adjustable positioning and support for multiple modules, and additional features like trim and micro-inverter mounting brackets for enhanced installation and protection.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Device complexity
If traditional mounting structures are used, then photovoltaic modules can be mounted, but the structure complexity increases and installation efficiency decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The mounting structure is divided into separate functional components: a clamp assembly for securing modules, a bracket for mounting to the roof, and a bonding clip for electrical connection. This segmentation allows each component to be optimized independently and simplifies installation by enabling modular assembly
Solution Approach 2:
The bracket assembly serves multiple functions simultaneously: it provides mechanical support for the photovoltaic modules, enables adjustment to different positions and angles, facilitates electrical bonding through integrated bonding clips, and allows for secure attachment to various roof structures. This multi-functionality reduces the number of separate components needed
2Adaptability or versatility
If fixed positioning structures are used, then installation is simplified, but adaptability to different roof structures decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The bracket incorporates slots and adjustment mechanisms that allow it to be dynamically positioned at different locations and angles on the roof. The bonding clips can be variably positioned along the bracket to accommodate different module configurations. This dynamic adjustability enables the same basic structure to adapt to various roof types and module arrangements without requiring multiple specialized components
Data Source
AI summary
An apparatus for mounting photovoltaic modules is disclosed. The apparatus includes a bracket where the bracket defines a slot in a lower portion of the bracket and the slot extends along a longitudinal length of the bracket. A clamp is securable to the bracket on an upper portion of the bracket. A first photovoltaic module and a second photovoltaic module are mountable on a first side of the bracket and a first side of the clamp, where the first photovoltaic module is adjacent to the second photovoltaic module. A footer is variably positionable on the bracket along the slot.