Solar Module Clamp Assembly for Simplified Tracker Attachment
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional solar panel assembly and maintenance are cumbersome due to inadequate solar 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 a U-bolt clamp system for secure attachment to a tracker system.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If conventional solar panel assembly techniques are used, then solar modules can be assembled, but the assembly process is cumbersome and difficult to maintain in the field
Solution Approach 1:
The attachment system is divided into separate modular components: a clamp assembly that attaches to the tracker structure, rails that mount to solar module frames, and attachment members that connect the clamps to the rails. This segmentation allows each component to be independently installed, adjusted, and maintained, significantly simplifying field assembly and maintenance operations.
Solution Approach 2:
The attachment system incorporates adjustable and movable elements, including adjustable clamps that can accommodate different tracker configurations, rails that can be positioned at various locations on module frames, and attachment members that allow for dynamic adjustment during assembly. This dynamic design enables adaptability to different installation scenarios and facilitates easier maintenance access.
2Reliability
If secure attachment of solar modules is achieved, then modules are firmly locked in place, but the assembly process becomes more complex and time-consuming
Solution Approach 1:
The clamp assembly is pre-configured with attachment features and mounting hardware before field installation. Rails are pre-drilled and pre-assembled with appropriate spacing and orientation. This preliminary preparation ensures that when components are brought to the installation site, they can be quickly connected without requiring complex on-site fabrication or adjustment, thereby reducing assembly time while maintaining secure attachment.
Solution Approach 2:
Multiple attachment functions are combined into integrated components. The clamp assembly simultaneously provides structural support, attachment points for rails, and securing mechanisms for the solar modules. The attachment members integrate locking features and adjustment capabilities in single components. This merging reduces the number of separate operations required during assembly, decreasing installation time while ensuring reliable attachment.
3Ease of repair
If accessible bolt tightening is enabled, then maintenance is easier, but the attachment mechanism becomes more complex
Solution Approach 1:
The attachment members are designed with universal features that serve multiple functions: they provide structural connection, enable bolt access from convenient locations, allow for adjustment, and facilitate maintenance access. The standardized interface design allows the same attachment mechanism to be used across different solar module configurations and tracker types, reducing the need for specialized tools or procedures during maintenance while keeping the overall mechanism relatively simple.
Data Source
AI summary
A solar module configured in a frame assembly with multi-configuration attachment member(s), which has locking and unlocking characteristics.