Solar Panel Mounting Assembly With Cam Clamp for Tracker Tubes
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing solar tracking systems face challenges in efficiently and securely attaching solar panel support structures to rotatable tubes, requiring complex assemblies and specialized tooling.
Innovation Solution
A mounting assembly that includes a saddle with sidewalls and a base wall, a clip assembly with a cam plate, and a locking device, which securely attaches solar panels to a rotatable tube without the need for specialized tooling or loose fastening components.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If traditional fasteners are used to attach panel support structures to rotatable tubes, then the attachment can be secured, but the assembly complexity and time increase
Solution Approach 1:
The mounting assembly merges multiple functions into a single integrated structure. The clamp assembly combines the clamping mechanism, locking device, and attachment features into one unified component that attaches the support rail to the rotatable tube, eliminating the need for separate fasteners and reducing assembly steps while maintaining secure attachment
2Reliability
If traditional fasteners are used to attach panel support structures, then the attachment can be secured, but the assembly time increases
Solution Approach 1:
The mounting assembly is pre-configured with the clamp assembly, locking device, and attachment features integrated before installation. The support rail is designed with pre-positioned attachment points that align with the clamp assembly, allowing for rapid installation without requiring on-site assembly of multiple components or specialized tooling, thus improving assembly speed while maintaining secure attachment
3Adaptability or versatility
If specialized tooling and loose fastening components are used, then the attachment can be adjusted, but the assembly process becomes more complex
Solution Approach 1:
The mounting assembly is designed as a universal, self-contained unit that performs multiple functions: clamping the support rail, locking it in position, and attaching it to the rotatable tube. The integrated design eliminates the need for specialized tooling and loose fastening components, as all adjustment and securing functions are built into the single mounting assembly, reducing complexity while maintaining adaptability
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
The solution provides a secure and efficient attachment of solar panels to the rotatable tube, reducing assembly complexity and time, while ensuring the panels remain securely positioned under various loads.
Implementation Method 1
The cam plate is shaped to receive the clip under tension and clamp the support rail to the rotatable tube
Implementation Method 2
The cam plate is shaped to receive the clip under tension and clamp the support rail to the rotatable tube
Data Source
AI summary
A mounting assembly for securing a solar panel assembly to a rotatable tube of a solar tracker includes a saddle having a first sidewall, a second sidewall, and a base wall extending between the first sidewall and the second sidewall. The solar panel assembly includes a support rail on a back side of the solar panel assembly defining a slot. The sidewalls define a gap sized to receive the support rail. A clip assembly is sized to extend around the rotatable tube and includes a clip and a cam plate. A locking device is connected to the clip assembly, is shaped to engage the first sidewall and the second sidewall, and is insertable into the slot in the support rail to connect the clip assembly to the support rail. The cam plate is shaped to receive the clip under tension and clamp the support rail to the rotatable tube.