Replacement Tile Mount With Integrated Sealing for Solar Roof Panels
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing solar panel mounting systems for tiled roofs are complex and time-consuming to install, requiring the removal of roofing tiles and lack efficient waterproofing solutions.
Innovation Solution
A one-piece, monolithic tile support mount with a custom-designed aperture-less replacement tile and a magnetic positioning tool for precise hole alignment, providing a rigid structural support and waterproof sealing system for solar panels on tiled roofs.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If traditional solar panel mounting systems are used on tiled roofs, then the panels can be securely mounted, but the installation process is complex and time-consuming requiring tile removal and modification
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the mounting structure and replacement tile into a single integrated unit. The tile mount includes a base portion that interfaces with the roof structure and an upper portion that supports the solar panel mounting mechanism, eliminating the need for separate mounting components and tile modification steps.
Solution Approach 2:
The replacement tile is pre-configured with the mounting structure integrated into its design before installation. The tile mount is manufactured as a complete assembly with pre-positioned fastening elements and sealing components, allowing installers to simply place and secure the entire unit without on-site fabrication or complex assembly procedures.
2Reliability
If traditional mounting structures are installed on tiled roofs, then solar panels can be secured, but waterproofing is difficult to achieve effectively
Solution Approach 1:
The tile mount incorporates a flashing component with an elastomeric membrane or gasket that provides flexible waterproof sealing. This flexible element conformally seals around the mounting structure and roof surface, preventing water infiltration while accommodating thermal expansion and roof movements.
Solution Approach 2:
The flashing and sealing components are nested within the integrated tile mount structure. The waterproofing elements are positioned within recesses or channels of the tile mount base, creating a layered sealing system where multiple protective barriers are stacked within the single mounting unit.
3Ease of operation
If replacement tiles with mounting structures are used, then installation is simplified, but precise alignment and positioning are difficult to achieve
Solution Approach 1:
The patent incorporates magnetic fastening elements within the tile mount structure that provide self-aligning and self-centering forces during installation. The magnetic attraction automatically draws the mounting components into precise alignment with the roof structure and solar panel rails, eliminating the need for manual measurement and alignment procedures.
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
Facilitates faster and easier installation of solar panels on tiled roofs with enhanced waterproofing, reducing installation time and costs while ensuring secure and durable mounting.
Implementation Method 1
a magnetic positioning tool tactile based aperture location that provides proper alignment of a drill bit when drilling or punching holes through the replacement tile
Data Source
AI summary
A one-piece, monolithic tile support mount attaches to a roof and provides rigid structural support for a lateral attachment bar or L-foot that is used to hold a height-adjustable mounting mechanism or mounting rail, which is used to attach solar photovoltaic panels to the roof of a roof covered with roofing tiles. A custom-designed, sheet-metal or polymer, aperture-less replacement tile is mounted between the lateral attachment bar or the L-foot and the tile support mount. Also provided is a compact, magnetic positioning tool that provides proper alignment of a drill bit when drilling or punching holes through the replacement tile.