Adjustable Roof Mount Bracket for Solar Panel Height Variation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing roof mount systems lack an efficient and adjustable mechanism for securely mounting solar panels on roofs, particularly in terms of accommodating varying panel sizes and heights, while also providing a watertight seal and electrical connectivity.
Innovation Solution
A roof mount system featuring a base with a slot for horizontal adjustment, a clamp with adjustable height and recesses for solar panels, and a fastener that adjusts the height by deflecting a resilient wall, allowing for secure mounting and electrical contact, along with a skirt for water prevention.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a fixed-height mounting system is used, then the structure is simple, but it cannot accommodate solar panels of varying sizes and heights
Solution Approach 1:
The mounting system employs adjustable height mechanisms including slots with movable fasteners and telescopic arms with pivot points, allowing the clamp position to be dynamically adjusted along the vertical axis to match different solar panel heights while maintaining structural integrity
Solution Approach 2:
The mounting bracket is designed with universal adaptability features including adjustable arm lengths, configurable clamp positions, and modular components that can accommodate various solar panel sizes and roof types through a single standardized interface
2Adaptability or versatility
If an adjustable height mechanism is added, then panel size adaptability improves, but the mounting system becomes more complex
Solution Approach 1:
The height adjustment mechanism is segmented into discrete components including separate slots for horizontal and vertical adjustment, independent fasteners for each adjustment dimension, and modular clamp assemblies that can be independently positioned and locked
3Stability of the object's composition
If a secure mounting mechanism is used, then panel stability improves, but water infiltration risk increases
Solution Approach 1:
A waterproof flashing element is introduced as an intermediary component between the mounting bracket and roof surface, creating a barrier that prevents water infiltration while allowing the secure mechanical attachment of solar panels through the bracket system
4Adaptability or versatility
If multiple adjustment mechanisms are added, then mounting versatility improves, but installation time increases
Solution Approach 1:
The mounting system incorporates pre-configured adjustment ranges and pre-positioned fastener locations that allow installers to quickly select and lock into appropriate positions without extensive measurement and adjustment, reducing installation time while maintaining versatility
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
The system provides a secure, adjustable, and watertight mounting solution for solar panels of varying sizes, ensuring effective water prevention and electrical connectivity, enhancing the stability and efficiency of solar panel installations on roofs.
Implementation Method 1
a resilient wall positioned between the first and second bottom flanges... upon tightening of the second fastener, the resilient wall deflects in a first direction thereby increasing the first height and decreasing the second height
Data Source
AI summary
A roof mount for mounting at least one solar panel to a roof surface including a base. The roof mount includes a clamp connected to the base and a first recess sized to support a first solar panel. The first recess has a first height extending between a first top flange and a first bottom flange. The clamp also includes a second recess sized to support one of a second solar panel and a skirt flange. The second recess has a second height extending between a second top flange and a second bottom flange. The roof mount further includes a fastener connected to the clamp. The second fastener is operable to adjust the first and second heights, such that upon tightening of the second fastener, the first height increases and the second height decreases, and upon loosening of the second fastener, the first height decreases and the second height increases.