PV Module Mounting Clip Assembly for Fast Grounded Installation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing photovoltaic (PV) module mounting and grounding systems require multiple small fasteners, leading to high part counts, slow installation times, and increased costs, and often lack compatibility with different roof types and PV module designs, including those with grooved or flat surfaces, and fail to provide a reliable electrical ground bond.
Innovation Solution
A mounting apparatus comprising supports with upper and lower surfaces, tabs, and openings, and a clip with an arm and notch, which resists wind and seismic forces while creating a grounding electrical bond between the PV module, support, and clip, allowing for efficient installation by arranging supports in rows and columns and connecting them to the PV module using lever clips that engage the module's frame.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If multiple small fasteners are used for mounting PV modules, then the mounting system can be securely attached to various surfaces, but the part count increases and installation time increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple fastening functions into a single integrated mounting bracket assembly. The bracket incorporates integrated fasteners that can simultaneously secure multiple PV modules to the mounting surface, eliminating the need for numerous separate fasteners and reducing installation time while maintaining secure attachment.
Solution Approach 2:
The mounting bracket is designed as a universal component that can accommodate different PV module types and mounting surfaces. The single bracket design performs multiple functions: securing modules to surfaces, providing electrical grounding through integrated grounding lugs, and accommodating various module configurations, thereby reducing the overall part count.
2Reliability
If multiple small fasteners are used for mounting PV modules, then the mounting system can be securely attached, but the part count and costs increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple fastening functions into a single integrated mounting bracket assembly. The bracket incorporates integrated fasteners that can simultaneously secure multiple PV modules to the mounting surface, eliminating the need for numerous separate fasteners and reducing installation time while maintaining secure attachment.
Solution Approach 2:
The mounting bracket is designed as a universal component that can accommodate different PV module types and mounting surfaces. The single bracket design performs multiple functions: securing modules to surfaces, providing electrical grounding through integrated grounding lugs, and accommodating various module configurations, thereby reducing the overall part count.
3Ease of operation
If conventional mounting systems are used, then installation can be performed, but compatibility with different roof types and PV module designs is limited
Solution Approach 1:
The mounting bracket is designed as a universal component that can accommodate different PV module types and mounting surfaces. The single bracket design performs multiple functions: securing modules to surfaces, providing electrical grounding through integrated grounding lugs, and accommodating various module configurations, thereby reducing the overall part count.
Solution Approach 2:
The bracket design incorporates adjustable features that allow it to adapt to different installation scenarios. The dynamic design enables the bracket to accommodate various roof types and PV module configurations through adjustable mounting positions and flexible attachment mechanisms.
4Ease of operation
If conventional mounting systems are used, then PV modules can be mounted, but a reliable electrical ground bond is not provided
Solution Approach 1:
The mounting bracket is designed as a universal component that can accommodate different PV module types and mounting surfaces. The single bracket design performs multiple functions: securing modules to surfaces, providing electrical grounding through integrated grounding lugs, and accommodating various module configurations, thereby reducing the overall part count.
Data Source
AI summary
A photovoltaic array, including: (a) supports laid out on a surface in rows and columns; (b) photovoltaic modules positioned on top of the supports; and (c) fasteners connecting the photovoltaic modules to the supports, wherein the supports have an upper pedestal surface and a lower pedestal surface such that the photovoltaic modules are positioned at a non-horizontal angle when edges of the photovoltaic modules are positioned on top of the upper and lower pedestal surfaces, and wherein a portion of the fasteners rotate to lock the photovoltaic modules onto the supports.