Rotatable Solar Panel Grounding Connector for Installation Orientation
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Existing electrical connectors for solar panels are difficult to install and can interfere with the solar cells or mechanical mounting, lacking ease of use and proper orientation for grounding conductors.
Innovation Solution
A rotatable electrical connector system comprising a first section for receiving a ground conductor and a second section with a channel to spring clip onto the solar panel frame, allowing for adjustable orientation and visual indication of proper connection through finger contact sections.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a traditional grounding connector is used for solar panels, then the electrical connection is established, but the installation becomes difficult and may interfere with solar cells or mechanical mounting
Solution Approach 1:
The grounding connector is divided into two separate sections: a first section that receives the grounding conductor and a second section that attaches to the solar panel frame. These sections are connected by a rotatable connection, allowing independent optimization of each section's function while simplifying the overall installation process
Solution Approach 2:
The rotatable connection between the first and second sections allows the connector to adapt its orientation dynamically during installation. This dynamic adjustment capability enables the connector to accommodate various panel orientations and installation configurations without interfering with solar cells or mechanical mounting components
2Adaptability or versatility
If a fixed orientation grounding connector is used, then the structure is simple, but the connector cannot be oriented at desired angles relative to the solar panel
Solution Approach 1:
The rotatable connection enables the connector to change its orientation dynamically during installation. This single degree of freedom rotation mechanism provides the necessary adaptability to achieve desired angles relative to the solar panel without requiring a complex multi-axis adjustment system
Solution Approach 2:
By separating the grounding conductor receiving section from the panel attachment section with a rotatable joint, the design achieves orientation adaptability while keeping each individual section structurally simple. The rotation mechanism serves as a minimal complexity solution to provide the required versatility
3Ease of operation
If a spring clip mounting system is used, then the installation is easy and quick, but there is no visual indication of proper connection
Solution Approach 1:
The finger contact sections provide a visual indication mechanism that changes the observable state of the connector. When properly mounted, the engagement of finger contact sections creates a visible signal (such as a color change or positional indicator) that allows installers to quickly verify proper connection without complex detection systems
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 easy and secure installation of grounding conductors on solar panels without interfering with the solar cells or mechanical mounting, ensuring reliable electrical connections and proper orientation.
Implementation Method 1
The second section is adapted to spring clip onto the solar panel frame and make an electrical connection therewith
Implementation Method 2
The rotatable connection is adapted to rotate the first section relative to the second section to orient the first electrical conductor at a desired orientation relative to the solar panel
Data Source
AI summary
An electrical connector including a first section adapted to receive a first electrical conductor; a second section, and a rotatable connection between the first and second section. The second section has a channel adapted to receive a portion of a frame of a solar panel. The second section is adapted to spring clip onto the solar panel frame and make an electrical connection therewith. The rotatable connection is adapted to rotate the first section relative to the second section to orient the first electrical conductor at a desired orientation relative to the solar panel.