PV Panel Mounting Foot With Plunger Latch for Tool-Free Locking
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing PV panel mounting systems on building structures, such as roofs, are cumbersome to install, requiring additional time and training, and pose safety risks due to the need for adjustments and tool carrying on elevated surfaces.
Innovation Solution
A PV mounting system featuring a base portion, a foot portion with a moveable latch and plunger mechanism that allows for boltless securement to the base, enabling rapid installation without additional tools by applying downward force to lock the foot to the base, providing structural rigidity for PV panels.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If adjustable mounting systems with bolts are used to allow flexibility between mounting points, then adaptability is improved, but installation time increases and worker safety deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The invention extracts the adjustment function from the mounting system by providing pre-drilled holes at multiple predetermined positions on the base portion, allowing installers to select and move between positions without requiring bolts or mechanical adjustment mechanisms. This eliminates the need for time-consuming adjustment operations while maintaining adaptability.
Solution Approach 2:
The base portion is segmented with multiple predetermined hole positions that allow the mounting system to be configured at different locations. This segmentation provides adaptability without requiring continuous adjustment mechanisms, enabling quick repositioning by simply selecting different hole positions during installation.
2Adaptability or versatility
If adjustable mounting systems with bolts are used to allow flexibility between mounting points, then adaptability is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The invention removes complex bolt-based adjustment mechanisms entirely, replacing them with a simplified base portion that has multiple predetermined hole positions. This extraction of the adjustment function reduces device complexity while maintaining the ability to adapt to different mounting locations.
Solution Approach 2:
Instead of providing a mechanism that actively adjusts the mounting position (complex approach), the invention inverts the approach by providing multiple fixed positions and allowing the installer to passively select the desired position. This inversion simplifies the system by eliminating mechanical adjustment components.
3Strength
If bolt-based locking mechanisms are used to secure the foot to the base, then connection strength is improved, but ease of operation deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The invention replaces the mechanical bolt-based locking system with a simple plug insertion mechanism. The plug portion is inserted through the foot portion into the base portion, where it is retained by the latch mechanism. This substitution maintains connection strength while dramatically improving ease of operation, allowing installation without tools and in a single straightforward action.
Solution Approach 2:
The plug and latch mechanism is designed to be self-securing. When the plug portion is inserted, the latch automatically engages to lock it in place, providing a secure connection without requiring additional tightening operations or tools. The system serves itself by automatically locking once the plug is inserted.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
The system significantly reduces installation time, enhances worker safety by minimizing time on elevated roofs, and eliminates the need for carrying additional tools, while ensuring secure and rigid support for PV panels.
Implementation Method 1
Application of a downward force on one end of the plunger may compress the plunger towards the base portion to selectively lock the foot portion to the base portion
Implementation Method 2
the latch can include first and second flexible flanges adapted to extend into fixed connection with the base portion
Data Source
AI summary
A photovoltaic (PV) mounting hardware support system having a base portion. A foot has an elongated body adapted to connect to at least one PV module frame mounting component. A latch is located between the foot and the base portion and comprising first and second flexible flanges adapted to extend into fixed connection with the top portion of base portion. A plunger having first and second extensions, the plunger is located between the latch and the base portion and moveable from a first position to a second position. In the first position of the plunger, the first and second flexible flanges of the latch are not in fixed connection with the base portion. In the second position of the plunger, the first and second extensions of the plunger respectively apply forces to the first and second flexible flanges such that the first and second flexible flanges are placed into fixed connection with the base portion.