Slide-Lock Clamp for Solar Panel Pest Barrier Attachment
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing solar panel mounting structures are inefficient in protecting against pests and debris, and lack universality and simplicity in adapting to new mounting equipment.
Innovation Solution
A clamp system comprising a connector, bracket, and slide that secures a barrier to solar panel modules, preventing pest access and debris accumulation by anchoring the barrier between the module and a surface, with removable attachment for maintenance.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a barrier is installed under solar panel modules to prevent pest access and debris accumulation, then protection effectiveness is improved, but device complexity and installation difficulty increase
Solution Approach 1:
The clamp system is divided into separate components: a clamp body that attaches to the solar panel frame, and a barrier element that extends from the clamp. This segmentation allows the barrier to be installed without replacing entire mounting structures, reducing complexity while maintaining protection effectiveness.
Solution Approach 2:
The clamp acts as an intermediary device between the solar panel mounting structure and the barrier. It connects to existing mounting equipment and provides an interface for attaching the barrier, simplifying installation by leveraging existing infrastructure rather than requiring complete system replacement.
2Adaptability or versatility
If existing mounting structures are used without modification, then device simplicity is maintained, but adaptability to new mounting equipment and universal application are reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The clamp is designed with a universal attachment mechanism that can interface with multiple types of solar panel mounting structures. The clamp body includes adjustable features and standardized connection points that accommodate different frame configurations, enabling the same barrier system to be applied across various mounting technologies without requiring custom-designed components for each system.
3Reliability
If a secure barrier attachment is implemented to prevent pest infiltration, then protection reliability is improved, but ease of removal for maintenance deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The clamp incorporates a dynamic fastening mechanism that transitions between a locked state during installation and an easily released state during maintenance. The fastener can be securely engaged to ensure the barrier remains firmly attached during normal operation, but can be quickly released when maintenance is needed, providing both reliability and ease of operation at different stages.
Data Source
AI summary
A clamp includes a connector, a bracket, and a slide. The connector is disposed through a barrier, and attaches to a solar panel module or a frame of the solar panel module. The bracket has a channel through which at least a portion of the connector is disposed. The slide that is transitionable between a first position in which the connector is unsecured to the bracket, and a second position in which the connector is secured to the bracket.