Rail Accessory Mount for Wire-Free Solar Rail Bonding
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current rooftop solar arrays require excessive copper wire for electrical bonding between rows of solar modules, leading to inefficiencies in installation and potential interference with the solar array's performance.
Innovation Solution
The Rail Accessory Mount system, comprising a fastener, plate-nut, and grip, provides a secure and efficient method for electrical bonding by using a plate-nut with protruding ridges to cut through anodization and create an electrical bond path, along with a grip that secures the mount to the rail, reducing wire usage and preventing movement.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If copper wire is used to electrically bond adjacent rows of solar modules, then electrical bonding is achieved, but excessive wire usage occurs leading to installation inefficiency and potential performance interference
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts the electrical bonding function from the copper wire and transfers it to the rail system. The rail accessory mount with conductive components creates an electrical bond path through the rail structure, eliminating the need for separate copper wire connections between solar module rows.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent merges the mechanical mounting function and electrical bonding function into a single integrated system. The rail accessory mount simultaneously secures solar modules to the rail and establishes electrical connectivity, combining two previously separate functions into one unified solution.
2Stability of the object's composition
If a secure mounting system is used to prevent movement of solar components, then stability is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The rail accessory mount is designed as a multi-functional component that simultaneously provides mechanical attachment, electrical connectivity, and movement prevention. This universal design consolidates multiple functions into a single device, reducing overall system complexity while maintaining stability.
Solution Approach 2:
The mounting system is segmented into modular components including the rail accessory mount, fastener, and plate-nut assembly. This segmentation allows for standardized, interchangeable parts that simplify installation and maintenance while providing secure, stable mounting through the combined action of these modular elements.
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
This solution minimizes wire usage, enhances electrical bonding, and prevents the Rail Accessory Mount from turning or sliding, ensuring stable and efficient installation of solar array components.
Implementation Method 1
a plate-nut with protruding ridges to cut through anodization and create an electrical bond path
Data Source
AI summary
A u-shaped clamp that includes offset bends at distal ends, accepts a threaded fastener through two apertures, where tightening the fastener brings two flanges of the u-shaped clamp together to grip a wire, a cable or a pipe. An offset bend on one end of one flange serves to hold a wire or cable in position until the fastener is tightened.