Photovoltaic Panel Sealing Assembly with Offset Layers
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing solar roof tiles are complex to install, prone to damage during installation, and may leak or be aesthetically unpleasing, with insufficient wind resistance.
Innovation Solution
A sealing assembly with offset layers and a seal assembly design that includes an upper abutment part, a lower abutment part, and an intermediate part, which connects these, allowing for easier installation and reduced risk of damage, while forming a labyrinth seal to prevent leaks and maintaining a flush surface to prevent dirt accumulation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If traditional sealing methods are used with separate sealing processes, then sealing function is achieved, but installation time increases and complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The sealing assembly integrates the sealing function directly into the joint structure between photovoltaic panels. The intermediate part with labyrinth seal geometry combines mechanical connection and sealing functions in a single component, eliminating separate sealing processes and reducing installation time while maintaining reliable sealing performance.
Solution Approach 2:
The sealing assembly is divided into distinct functional parts: upper abutment part, lower abutment part, and intermediate part with labyrinth seal. This segmentation allows each part to perform its specific function efficiently while being installed as an integrated unit, reducing overall installation complexity and time.
2Ease of operation
If fragile photovoltaic panels are handled during installation, then panels can be positioned, but risk of damage increases
Solution Approach 1:
The sealing assembly acts as an intermediary component between adjacent photovoltaic panels. The upper and lower abutment parts provide contact surfaces that distribute mechanical loads, while the intermediate part bridges the gap between panels. This intermediary structure protects the fragile panel edges from direct contact and potential damage during installation and operation.
3Shape
If offset layers are used in photovoltaic panels, then aesthetic appearance improves and wind resistance increases, but sealing complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The sealing assembly is designed to accommodate the asymmetric offset between upper and lower layers of adjacent panels. The upper abutment part contacts the upper layer while the lower abutment part contacts the lower layer, with the intermediate part bridging the offset gap. This asymmetric design maintains the flush surface appearance and wind resistance benefits of offset layers while providing a tailored sealing solution that doesn't significantly increase complexity.
4Manufacturing precision
If separate sealing processes are required after panel laying, then sealing precision can be achieved, but installation time and labor increase
Solution Approach 1:
The sealing function is built into the sealing assembly structure before installation. The labyrinth seal geometry is pre-formed in the intermediate part, and the abutment parts are pre-configured to contact the panel layers at precise locations. This preliminary preparation of sealing features eliminates the need for separate post-installation sealing processes, maintaining sealing precision while significantly improving installation efficiency.
Data Source
Figure 1A~2A
Figure 2B~3A
Figure 3B
AI summary
A seal assembly for arrangement between a first and a second photovoltaic panel is disclosed. The first and the second photovoltaic panel comprising an upper layer and a lower layer, wherein the upper layer is offset with respect to the lower layer at first and second side edges, such that the upper layer of the first photovoltaic panel at its second side edge partially overlaps the lower layer of the second photovoltaic panel at its first side edge. The seal assembly comprises an upper abutment part, a lower abutment part, and an intermediate part connecting the upper abutment part with the lower abutment part and configured for being arranged between the upper layer of the first photovoltaic panel and the lower layer of the second photovoltaic panel. Also, arrays of solar panels and roof structures including such seal assemblies are disclosed.