Solar Module Carrying Structure for Thermal Expansion and Drainage
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing carrying arrangements for solar modules fail to securely hold modules of different geometric dimensions without displacement, while allowing independent expansion and contraction, and effectively discharge moisture without using rubber seals, especially under varying weather conditions.
Innovation Solution
A carrying arrangement featuring parallel carrier channel profiles with carrier bars, rung parts, holding elements, and locking elements that securely position and thermally decouple solar modules, allowing independent expansion and contraction, and facilitates moisture drainage through a screw-free connection, forming a self-supporting photovoltaic roof system without rubber seals.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Stability of the object's composition
If solar modules are securely held on the carrying arrangement without displacement, then positioning stability is improved, but thermal expansion freedom deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The carrying arrangement is divided into modular components: carrier channel profiles with carrier bars, rung parts, holding elements, and locking elements. Each component can expand or contract independently while maintaining the overall structural integrity and module positioning.
Solution Approach 2:
The locking elements are designed to be movable along guides on the rung parts, allowing dynamic adjustment. This enables the structure to adapt to thermal expansion and contraction of solar modules while maintaining secure positioning through the engagement of locking elements with carrier bar faces.
2Stress or pressure
If the carrying arrangement allows independent expansion and contraction, then thermal stress is reduced, but securing strength deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The structure is segmented into independent components (carrier channel profiles, rung parts, holding elements, locking elements) that can expand and contract independently, distributing thermal stress across multiple interfaces rather than concentrating it in one location.
Solution Approach 2:
The locking elements act as intermediaries between the rung parts and carrier bars. They provide secure connection through engagement with carrier bar faces while allowing for thermal movement through their ability to move along the guides, mediating between the need for strength and the need for thermal flexibility.
3Object-generated harmful factors
If moisture is discharged from the outer face of the carrying arrangement, then water accumulation is prevented, but roof tightness deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The carrier channel profiles are designed with a channel structure that provides a defined path for water discharge. Water is directed along the channel profile in a controlled manner, discharging from the outer face while maintaining roof tightness through the structured channel design rather than uncontrolled openings.
4Adaptability or versatility
If solar modules of various manufacturers and dimensions are held securely, then adaptability is improved, but device complexity deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The carrier channel profiles with their channel structures and the standardized locking mechanism serve multiple functions: they support solar modules of various dimensions, allow for thermal expansion, provide water discharge pathways, and enable secure positioning. This multi-functionality reduces the need for additional specialized components.
Solution Approach 2:
The system accommodates various module dimensions by allowing adjustment of the positioning of rung parts and locking elements along the carrier channel profiles. The movable locking elements can engage at different positions on the carrier bar faces, adapting to modules of different sizes without requiring different structural configurations.
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 securely holds solar modules of varying dimensions, allows independent thermal expansion, and provides effective moisture drainage, creating a stable and scalable, tight roof covering without mechanical stress or the need for rubber seals, suitable for various orientations and geometric configurations.
Implementation Method 1
each of the locking elements being set up to be movable along its longitudinal extension in a guide on the second end of the associated rung part and to be connected to the second longitudinal face of the carrier bar of the second carrier channel profile by displacement along the guide
Implementation Method 2
the carrying arrangement and the solar modules being permitted to expand or contract mutually independently
Data Source
AI summary
A carrying arrangement is provided to support solar modules spaced apart from a surface covered with said solar modules. At least two carrier channel profiles extend parallel and have a carrier bar and with first and second longitudinal faces, a plurality of solar modules provided between the carrier bars, with a plurality of rung parts, which extend between the channel profiles and at least indirectly support adjacent solar modules, with holding elements, which are detachably connectable to a first longitudinal face of the carrier bar of a first carrier channel profile. Locking elements are movable along a longitudinal extension in a guide of a rung part and connected to the second longitudinal face by displacement along the guide, such that ends of the solar modules are held and locked together and are locked by the locking element and by the change in cross section of the carrier bar.