PV Module Mounting Rail With Wireway and Water Channel Separation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing photovoltaic (PV) module mounting systems are inefficient and aesthetically unpleasing due to the need for numerous fastening elements and exposed hardware, which complicates installation and affects the appearance of the installation.
Innovation Solution
A mounting system featuring elongate rails with an open channel that supports PV modules and directs precipitation away, incorporating a wire support that separates the channel into a wireway and a water channeling portion, and using projections on the PV modules to cover gaps and prevent precipitation from entering.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If traditional mounting hardware engages the edge of the module to secure PV modules, then the modules can be securely mounted, but the module edges cannot be placed in close proximity to each other and the mounting hardware is exposed which negatively affects aesthetics
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts the mounting function from the edge-engaging hardware and relocates it to the back surface of the modules. The mounting system engages the back surfaces of adjacent modules directly, eliminating the need for edge-clamping hardware and allowing modules to be placed in close proximity with edges touching, thus improving aesthetics while maintaining securement.
Solution Approach 2:
Instead of mounting hardware engaging the edges of modules from the front/sides, the patent inverts the approach by having mounting elements engage the back surfaces of modules. This reversal allows the module edges to be in direct contact with each other for aesthetic purposes while the back surface provides the mounting interface.
2Reliability
If numerous fastening elements are used to secure PV modules, then the modules can be securely mounted, but the installation complexity and time increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges multiple fastening functions into a single integrated mounting system. The mounting elements simultaneously secure multiple modules together and to the support structure, eliminating the need for numerous separate fastening elements and reducing installation time while maintaining securement.
Solution Approach 2:
The mounting elements are designed with multi-functionality, serving as both structural supports and securing mechanisms. Each mounting element can engage multiple modules and provide both mechanical support and securement, reducing the total number of components needed and simplifying installation.
3Area of stationary object
If PV modules form the cover or roofs of a structure, then they provide coverage, but precipitation accumulates on the surface reducing PV module performance
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a third dimension to the PV module surface by creating raised protrusions that extend from the back surface. These protrusions form channels and pathways that redirect precipitation flow, allowing water to channel away from the module surface rather than accumulating, thus maintaining PV efficiency while preserving full coverage area.
Solution Approach 2:
The back surface of the PV module is segmented into multiple protrusions and channels that divide the precipitation flow into separate pathways. This segmentation prevents water accumulation by directing flow through defined channels away from the module surface, maintaining energy efficiency while providing complete coverage.
Data Source
AI summary
A photovoltaic (“PV”) module mounting system including a rail having a base wall and opposed first and second sidewalls extending outwardly therefrom. The first and the second sidewalls each have a flange extending outwardly therefrom. The flanges form a mounting surface adapted to support a PV module. The first and the second sidewalls define therebetween an open channel. A wire support is disposed between the first and second sidewalls and is adapted to support wires extending through the channel at a distance spaced from the base wall. The wire support divides the channel into a wireway and a water channeling portion. The wire support includes an opening therein to permit fluid communication between the wireway and the water channeling portion.