Snap-Fastening Solar Module Attachment for Rapid Installation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional solar module mounting methods are time-consuming, prone to mechanical stress, and reduce the active surface area available for energy conversion, limiting efficiency and making replacement difficult.
Innovation Solution
A snap-fastening fixing device with reinforcing profiles and supports that allow for rapid and secure mounting of frameless solar modules on structures, utilizing elastic locking mechanisms and U-shaped cross-sections for alignment and immobilization, enabling easy replacement without compromising mechanical strength or active surface area.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If screwing or bolting is used to secure the frame to the mounting structure, then the module is firmly attached to the structure, but the installation time and dismantling time become relatively long
Solution Approach 1:
The fixing device is divided into separate components: a support structure and a snap-on element with a tab. The tab can be independently inserted and snapped into place, allowing for rapid attachment without complex fastening operations. This segmentation enables the attachment mechanism to be simplified from multi-step screwing/bolting to a single snap-on action.
Solution Approach 2:
The invention replaces the traditional mechanical screwing or bolting system with a snap-on mechanism. The tab engages with a recess in the mounting structure through a snapping motion, creating a secure attachment without requiring threads, nuts, or multiple fastening components. This substitution dramatically reduces installation time while maintaining attachment reliability.
2Ease of operation
If a metal frame is used to cover the perimeter of the module for mounting, then the module can be secured to the structure, but mechanical stresses are created on the module's periphery that reduce its mechanical strength
Solution Approach 1:
The invention extracts the mounting function from the traditional metal frame that surrounds the entire module perimeter. Instead, a minimal support structure with a tab is used that attaches to a specific location on the module without requiring a continuous frame. This extraction eliminates the frame-induced mechanical stresses while preserving the mounting capability.
Solution Approach 2:
The fixing device applies mounting force at a localized point through the tab rather than distributing stress around the entire module perimeter through a frame. The support structure with tab creates a focused attachment point that secures the module without subjecting the peripheral regions to bending or compressive stresses that would weaken the module structure.
3Ease of operation
If a metal frame is used around the perimeter of the module, then the module can be attached to the structure, but portions of the active surface around the module's periphery are covered that would contribute to energy conversion
Solution Approach 1:
The invention removes the perimeter frame that was traditionally used for attachment, extracting only the essential mounting function. The support structure with tab provides attachment capability without requiring a continuous frame that would cover and block the active surface area around the module's periphery, thereby maximizing energy conversion potential.
4Reliability
If screwing or bolting is used to secure the frame, then the module is firmly attached to the structure, but the dismantling time becomes relatively long in case of module failure
Solution Approach 1:
The fixing device is segmented into a support structure and a removable tab element. The tab can be independently detached from the mounting structure by simply pulling or releasing the snap-on connection, allowing for rapid module replacement without the need to undo multiple screws or bolts. This segmentation enables easy dismantling while maintaining secure attachment during operation.
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 quick and reliable mounting of solar modules with enhanced mechanical strength and efficiency, ensuring maximum exposure to solar radiation while allowing for easy dismantling and replacement, thus improving installation efficiency and performance.
Implementation Method 1
the device comprises, as locking means for the snap-on means in their activated state, elastic means for pushing the module away from the structure to maintain the edge of the notch inside the groove
Data Source
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AI summary
The invention relates to a device for attaching a solar energy capture module (10) to a structure (30), such as a roof or facade or a supporting structure in an open field, wherein the rear face (10A) of the module (10) is provided with at least one reinforcing section (20). The device includes at least one support (40) which is solidly connected to the structure (30) and which comprises means (48) for locking same in relation to the reinforcing section (20) of the module, whereby said locking means (48) can be activated with the application of a unidirectional push force (F1) from the module (10) in the direction of the structure (30).