Solar Module Frame Bracket Assembly With Integrated Fastening

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Solution Overview

Problem

The assembly of solar modules on brackets is inefficient due to the need for multiple tools and steps, which hinders the promotion of solar energy adoption as a viable alternative to fossil fuels.

Innovation Solution

A bracket system comprising a fastener, holder, and fixing element, where the fastener has extended portions and a concave segment, and the holder has through holes, allowing for the secure sandwiching and fixing of solar module frames with reduced assembly complexity, utilizing a hanger bolt and nuts for quick assembly and secure mounting.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Productivity

If traditional assembly methods are used for mounting solar modules on brackets, then the solar modules can be securely fixed, but the assembly process requires multiple tools and steps which reduces efficiency

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveassembly efficiencyVSAvoidnumber of tools and steps
Core Design Contradiction:
ProductivityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent combines multiple assembly functions into a single integrated bracket structure. The bracket integrates the holder, fastening mechanism, and mounting features into one unified component, eliminating the need for separate tools and multiple assembly steps. This merging of functions directly addresses the contradiction by reducing device complexity while maintaining secure fixation capability.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #5Merging (Combining)

Solution Approach 2:

The bracket is designed with multi-functional capabilities: it provides structural support, enables adjustable positioning, and incorporates integrated fastening mechanisms. The single bracket structure performs multiple functions that traditionally required separate components and tools, thereby improving assembly efficiency without compromising the secure mounting of solar modules.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

2Ease of operation

If a simple bracket structure is used, then the assembly process becomes faster and easier, but the structural integrity and security of the solar module mounting may be compromised

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveassembly simplicityVSAvoidmounting security
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of operationVSReliability

Solution Approach 1:

The bracket is designed with pre-configured fastening features and integrated mounting mechanisms that are prepared in advance during manufacturing. This preliminary action allows for simple, tool-minimal assembly while ensuring that the structural integrity features are already in place, eliminating the need for complex field assembly procedures that could compromise mounting security.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #10Preliminary action

Solution Approach 2:

The bracket incorporates self-aligning and self-securing features that automatically ensure proper positioning and secure mounting during assembly. The integrated design includes self-adjusting mechanisms that maintain structural integrity without requiring complex manual adjustment or multiple tools, thereby achieving both ease of operation and reliable mounting security.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #25Self-service

Data Source

PatentUS9252702B2Frame for solar module and solar system using the same
Publication Date: 2016.02.02 AU OPTRONICS CORP
  • US9252702B2 patent drawing
  • US9252702B2 patent drawing
  • US9252702B2 patent drawing

AI summary

A bracket is used for supporting at least one solar module each of which has a frame. The bracket includes a fastener, a holder and a fixing element. The fastener includes a top portion and extended portions connected vertically to both sides of the top portion. The top portion has a concave segment at its central position. The holder includes a supporting portion for resisting the bracket. The holder has first through holes, in which the extended portions pass through a plurality of second through holes of the frame and the first through holes of the holder for sandwiching the bracket between the fastener and the holder. The fixing element is used for fixing the fastener on the holder.