Adjustable Standing Seam Clamp Mount for Variable Solar Module Thickness
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing methods for installing structures on standing seam panels often require puncturing the panels, leading to costly damage, leakage, and corrosion issues, and are not adaptable to different thicknesses of solar cell modules.
Innovation Solution
A mounting assembly comprising a mounting device, a stud, and a clamping member that attaches to the standing seam without penetrating it, using a stud with threaded sections to exert clamping force and accommodate various module thicknesses through a nut and clamping legs.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If puncturing methods are used to install structures on standing seam panels, then installation is simplified, but the panels suffer damage leading to leakage and corrosion
Solution Approach 1:
The mounting device acts as an intermediary between the standing seam panel and the structure to be installed. It attaches to the standing seam without puncturing the panel through a slot and fastener mechanism, while providing mounting holes for securing the structure. This mediator approach transfers the mounting function away from direct panel penetration, eliminating leakage and corrosion risks while maintaining installation simplicity.
2Ease of operation
If fixed mounting assemblies are used, then installation is straightforward, but they cannot accommodate different thicknesses of solar cell modules
Solution Approach 1:
The mounting assembly incorporates adjustable elements including a stud with varying thread engagement and a clamping member that can be positioned at different locations along the stud. This dynamic adjustability allows the same mounting assembly to accommodate solar cell modules of different thicknesses while maintaining a straightforward installation process through consistent attachment mechanisms.
3Reliability
If mounting devices are attached without penetrating standing seams, then panel integrity is maintained, but secure attachment becomes more difficult
Solution Approach 1:
The attachment system is segmented into distinct functional components: a mounting device with a slot for non-penetrating attachment to the standing seam, a fastener for securing the mounting device to the seam, and mounting holes for attaching the structure. This segmentation allows each component to perform its specific function optimally - the slot and fastener maintain panel integrity while the mounting holes provide secure attachment strength.
Data Source
AI summary
An adjustable mounting assembly (70a/70b) for installing solar cell modules (58) on a building surface (34) is disclosed. The mounting assembly (70a/70b) includes a mounting device (74), a stud (114) that may be threaded to the mounting device (74), a clamping member (142) that may be positioned on the stud (114), and a nut (128) that may be threaded onto the stud (114) to secure the clamping member (142) to the mounting device (74). A nut (126) is fixed to the stud (114) at an intermediate location along its length. This fixed nut (126) may be used to tighten the stud (114) to a mounting device (74), and furthermore may be positioned such that the stud (114) does not extend into a slot (90) of the mounting device (74).