PV Module Mounting Base With Quarter-Turn Tool-Free Locking
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Solution Overview
Problem
Traditional PV module mounting systems require complex and time-consuming installations, and are dependent on power tools, leading to bottlenecks in installation speed due to the need for multiple impact drivers and their battery life.
Innovation Solution
A PV module mounting system that includes a base with receptacles and a foot with an elongated handle, allowing the coupling member to secure the foot to the base with less than a full revolution, reducing the need for tools and simplifying the installation process.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If traditional rail-based mounting systems are used, then structural stability is achieved, but installation complexity and time increase significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the base structure with integrated receptacles and the foot with coupling members into a single unified mounting unit. This merging eliminates the need for separate rail components and multiple fastening operations, reducing installation complexity while maintaining structural stability through the integrated design that secures PV modules directly to the roof structure.
Solution Approach 2:
The mounting system is designed as a universal platform that can accommodate different PV module configurations through its standardized base and foot components. The base with receptacles and foot with coupling members provides multi-functional capability to secure various module types and orientations, simplifying installation across different applications without requiring multiple specialized components.
2Strength
If power tools like impact drivers are used for securing mounting hardware, then secure attachment is achieved, but installation speed is limited by tool availability and battery life
Solution Approach 1:
The coupling member is designed with self-service characteristics where the installer simply positions the foot with the coupling member into the base receptacle and secures it by hand-tightening. The split-design of the coupling member allows it to be snapped or clipped into place without requiring powered tools, eliminating bottlenecks related to impact driver availability and battery life while maintaining secure attachment strength.
3Reliability
If multiple fastening steps are required for mounting, then secure connection is achieved, but installation time increases
Solution Approach 1:
The base is pre-configured with receptacles and the foot is pre-configured with coupling members during manufacturing. This preliminary preparation allows the installer to simply position and secure the components in a single action during installation, eliminating the need for multiple fastening steps while ensuring reliable connection through the pre-engineered fit between receptacles and coupling members.
Solution Approach 2:
The mounting system is segmented into distinct functional components (base with receptacles, foot with coupling members) that are designed to interface with each other in a single securement action. This segmentation allows each component to be optimized for its specific function while enabling rapid assembly through the standardized interface, reducing installation time without compromising connection reliability.
Data Source
AI summary
A system for mounting one or more photovoltaic (PV) modules to a structure. The system can include a base having quarter turn receptacles. A coupling member can mate to one of the receptacles to compress a mounting foot to the base and prevent it from moving. A handle attached coupling member can be used to lock the coupling member to the base. A PV module coupling device attached to the foot may support two PV modules.