Solar Module Clamp with Cam-Based Locking for Field Assembly

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Solution Overview

Problem

Conventional solar panel assembly and maintenance are cumbersome due to inadequate tracking assembly techniques, making it difficult to efficiently configure and secure solar modules in the field.

Innovation Solution

A frame assembly with attachment members, including rails and U-bolts, that can be easily mounted and configured to securely lock solar modules in place, utilizing a cam structure for interlocking and providing easy access for tightening, allowing for efficient installation and alignment of solar modules.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Ease of operation

If conventional attachment members and assembly techniques are used, then solar modules can be secured, but the assembly and maintenance process becomes cumbersome and time-consuming

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveease of assemblyVSAvoidinstallation time

Core Design Contradiction:

Ease of operationVSLoss of time

Solution Approach 1:

The attachment system is divided into separate modular components including rails, clamps, and attachment members that can be independently handled and assembled. This segmentation allows for easier field assembly and maintenance without requiring complex integrated structures.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The clamp incorporates a cam structure that enables dynamic adjustment and locking mechanisms, allowing installers to quickly secure modules in various positions. The dynamic locking mechanism provides both ease of installation and adaptability to different mounting configurations.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #15Dynamics

2Reliability

If conventional frames and attachment members are used, then solar modules can be secured, but the assembly process becomes complex and difficult to maintain

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvestability of solar module systemVSAvoidcomplexity of assembly

Core Design Contradiction:

ReliabilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The rail and clamp components are designed to work together as an integrated attachment system, where the clamp engages with the rail in a unified locking mechanism. This merging of components simplifies the overall assembly while maintaining structural reliability through the coordinated interaction of parts.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #5Merging (Combining)

Solution Approach 2:

The cam structure serves as an intermediary mechanism between the clamp and rail, providing a simple yet reliable locking action. This intermediary element translates rotational motion into linear locking force, achieving high reliability through a straightforward mechanical advantage rather than complex fastening systems.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

3Ease of operation

If adequate tracking assembly techniques are used, then solar modules can be securely mounted, but the assembly and maintenance becomes cumbersome in the field

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveease of maintenanceVSAvoidcomplexity of tracking assembly

Core Design Contradiction:

Ease of operationVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The attachment members are designed to be easily removable and extractable from the rail-clamp assembly, allowing for simple maintenance and replacement of solar modules without disturbing the entire mounting structure. This extraction capability significantly reduces maintenance complexity in field conditions.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #2Taking out (Extraction)

Data Source

PatentUS11881534B2Solar module clamp

Publication Date: 2024.01.23 NEXTPOWER LLC

AI summary

A solar module configured in a frame assembly with multi-configuration attachment member(s), which has locking and unlocking characteristics.