PV Module Pin-Mount Assembly for Low-Cost Solar Tracking
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional fasteners and welded joints in solar-tracking photovoltaic systems are costly, both in manufacturing and installation, making them a significant economic barrier for constructing renewable energy infrastructure.
Innovation Solution
A mounting assembly for PV modules using a pin assembly with end collars that extends through mounting walls and a torque member, distributing loading and securing the PV module without the need for rivets or welds, forming a structural truss system that can pivot with the torque tube.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Strength
If conventional fasteners (bolts or rivets) are used to attach PV modules to supportive structures, then structural strength and reliability are improved, but manufacturing cost and installation cost increase significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces expensive conventional fasteners (bolts, rivets) with a cheaper pin assembly that can be easily manufactured and installed. The pin assembly serves as a cost-effective alternative that maintains structural integrity while significantly reducing both manufacturing and installation costs.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent substitutes the complex mechanical fastening system (bolts, nuts, rivets requiring tools and skilled labor) with a simpler pin insertion system that reduces manufacturing complexity and installation cost while maintaining the necessary structural strength for PV module attachment.
2Strength
If welded joints are used to attach supportive structures to torque tubes, then connection strength and reliability are improved, but installation cost and complexity increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces expensive welded joints with a simpler pin assembly system that eliminates the need for welding equipment and skilled welders, thereby reducing installation complexity and cost while maintaining adequate connection strength for the application.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent substitutes the welding process (which requires specialized equipment, safety precautions, and skilled labor) with a mechanical pin insertion system that is easier to implement, reduces installation complexity, and maintains sufficient connection strength for attaching supportive structures to torque tubes.
3Reliability
If conventional fasteners and welded joints are used, then structural integrity is maintained, but construction time and labor cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs a simplified pin assembly system that can be rapidly installed compared to conventional fasteners and welded joints, thereby increasing construction speed and productivity while maintaining the necessary structural integrity for PV module support in sun-tracking systems.
Data Source
AI summary
A mounting assembly for a photovoltaic (PV) module, and systems including such mounting assemblies, are described. In an example, the mounting assembly includes a top support and a bottom support having respective mounting walls, and holes through the mounting walls. A pin assembly may extend through the holes in the mounting walls to constrain the supports, for example, relative to a torque member of a solar-tracking PV system. The pin assembly may include end collars to engage and distribute loading from the torque member.