Slate Tile Solar Mount with Compression Spacer for Minimal Tile Removal
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing solar panel mounting systems for slate tile roofs require significant deconstruction, are cosmetically and structurally undesirable, and increase installation costs due to the need to remove multiple tiles for securement.
Innovation Solution
A solar panel mount system comprising a plate, mounting shaft, mounting member, and compression spacer that allows for secure attachment to the roof substrate with minimal tile removal, integrating with the existing roof structure and drainage system, and using a compression spacer to maintain structural integrity.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Strength
If multiple tiles are removed to secure the solar panel directly to the roof substrate, then the solar panel can be firmly attached, but the installation becomes costly and the roof structure is significantly disturbed
Solution Approach 1:
The mounting member acts as an intermediary component between the plate and the roof substrate. It includes a receiving portion that receives the fastener from the plate and a mounting portion that attaches to the roof substrate, thereby mediating the connection and eliminating the need to remove multiple tiles while maintaining firm attachment
Solution Approach 2:
The mounting system is divided into separate functional components: a plate with fastener, a mounting member with receiving and mounting portions, and a compression spacer. This segmentation allows each component to perform its specific function independently, simplifying installation while ensuring secure attachment
2Strength
If multiple tiles are removed for mounting, then secure attachment is achieved, but cosmetic appearance and structural integrity are compromised
Solution Approach 1:
The mounting member serves as a mediator that distributes the attachment load across a wider area of the roof substrate without requiring removal of multiple tiles. The compression spacer further mediates by distributing compression forces, thereby maintaining roof structure integrity while achieving secure panel attachment
Solution Approach 2:
The system changes the parameters of force distribution by using the compression spacer to distribute compression forces across multiple tiles rather than concentrating them at a single attachment point, thereby maintaining structural integrity and cosmetic appearance while achieving secure attachment
3Ease of operation
If a simple plate and fastener system is used, then installation is straightforward, but the mounting is insufficient for slate tile roofs requiring additional components
Solution Approach 1:
The mounting system is segmented into distinct components (plate, mounting member, compression spacer) that can be easily handled and installed separately, yet work together as an integrated system. This segmentation maintains installation simplicity while providing the necessary functionality for slate tile roofs
Solution Approach 2:
The mounting member is designed with multi-functionality, incorporating both a receiving portion for the plate fastener and a mounting portion for attaching to the roof substrate. This universal design consolidates multiple functions into a single component, reducing overall system complexity while ensuring adequate mounting capability
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
Enables efficient and cost-effective installation of solar panels on slate tile roofs by reducing the number of tiles that need to be removed, maintaining structural integrity, and integrating seamlessly with the existing roof structure, while providing a low-profile, aesthetically desirable solution.
Implementation Method 1
The compression spacer is on an opposite side of the mounting member from the plate and receives the mounting shaft
Data Source
AI summary
A solar panel mount includes a plate, a compression spacer, a mounting shaft, and a mounting member. The plate includes a first edge and a first surface. The plate defines at least one opening spaced from the first edge. The mounting member is between the plate and the compression spacer, defines at least one channel aligned with the at least one opening of the plate to receive the mounting shaft through an opening of the at least one opening and a corresponding channel of the at least one channel. The compression spacer receives the mounting shaft.