Rotational Lock PV Mounting for Faster Rooftop Installation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing photovoltaic (PV) module installations face challenges in efficient and secure attachment to various surfaces, particularly rooftops, requiring faster and simpler installation methods that maintain stability and alignment.
Innovation Solution
A rotational lock mounting system comprising an anchor base with side walls and flanges, a standoff with a locking component, and a deformable pad, allowing for quick and secure assembly of PV modules by rotating the standoff into the anchor base, ensuring stability through interlocking mechanisms.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If traditional mounting methods are used for PV modules, then the installation process is complex and time-consuming, but the mounting system provides sufficient stability and security
Solution Approach 1:
The mounting system is divided into separate functional components: an anchor base for surface attachment, a standoff for module support, and a locking mechanism for secure connection. This segmentation allows for faster installation as each component can be independently positioned and connected through simple rotational locking actions rather than complex multi-step fastening procedures
Solution Approach 2:
The locking mechanism incorporates rotational movement that transforms the mounting process from static fastening to a dynamic locking action. The standoff rotates within the anchor base to engage locking features, providing rapid secure attachment while maintaining structural stability. This dynamic approach reduces installation time while ensuring reliable mechanical connection
2Loss of time
If traditional mounting methods are used for PV modules, then the installation process is complex and time-consuming, but the mounting system provides sufficient stability and security
Solution Approach 1:
The rotational locking mechanism enables quick installation by transforming the fastening process into a simple rotational motion. The standoff rotates into the anchor base to engage locking features, reducing installation time while maintaining ease of operation through intuitive mechanical guidance and alignment features
Solution Approach 2:
The mounting system incorporates self-aligning features and deformable pads that automatically adjust during installation. The deformable pad conforms to surface irregularities, and the rotational mechanism guides the standoff into proper alignment, eliminating the need for precise pre-positioning and simplifying the installation process
3Ease of operation
If a rotational locking mechanism is implemented, then installation is faster and simpler, but the system requires additional components increasing complexity
Solution Approach 1:
The locking mechanism is integrated directly into the standoff and anchor base components, merging the support and locking functions into a single unified system. This integration eliminates the need for separate locking devices, reducing overall component count while maintaining ease of operation through the rotational locking action
4Stability of the object's composition
If a deformable pad is added for stability, then the mounting system provides enhanced stability and alignment, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The deformable pad changes its physical parameters (shape and density) under compression to conform to surface irregularities. This parameter change allows the pad to adapt to various mounting surfaces, enhancing stability and alignment without requiring complex adjustable mechanisms or multiple component variants
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, simpler, and more secure installation of PV modules on diverse surfaces by providing enhanced stability and alignment, reducing installation time and improving durability.
Implementation Method 1
The stabilizing portion can include a deformable pad. This pad is configured to be placed adjacent to a flat surface of the horizontal mounting portion of the anchor base, providing the rotational lock mounting system additional stability.
Implementation Method 2
The pad also assists in ensuring that a standoff is rotated to the correct position when locking the standoff in an anchor base.
Data Source
AI summary
A rotational lock mounting system for use with photovoltaic (PV) modules (e.g., panels) and arrays. The mounting system includes an anchor base and a standoff. The standoff further includes a standoff mounting portion and a locking component coupled thereto. The mounting system can be used by inserting the locking component of the standoff into the anchor base and rotating the standoff to secure the locking component within the anchor base.