Solar Module Latching Bracket Assembly for Fast Reliable Mounting

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Solution Overview

Problem

The complexity and high cost of configuring solar devices due to the numerous components required, which also increases setup time and labor costs.

Innovation Solution

A solar device configuration system utilizing a solar module, splicing member with latching pins, and a bracket, where the splicing member connects the solar module to the bracket via secure locking mechanisms, reducing the number of components and simplifying the assembly process.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Device complexity

If traditional solar device configuration methods are used with multiple components, then structural reliability is maintained, but device complexity and setup time increase

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvenumber of componentsVSAvoidstructural reliability
Core Design Contradiction:
Device complexityVSReliability

Solution Approach 1:

The splicing member integrates multiple functions (connection, locking, alignment) into a single component that combines a body with first and second latching pins, eliminating the need for separate fasteners and alignment features, thus reducing component count while maintaining structural integrity

Inventive Principle:
Principle #5Merging (Combining)

Solution Approach 2:

The splicing member serves multiple purposes: it connects the solar module to the bracket, provides locking through latching pins, ensures alignment via the body structure, and enables quick assembly/disassembly, making one component perform the work of several traditional components

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

2Loss of time

If traditional solar device configuration methods are used, then secure fixation is achieved, but setup time and labor costs increase

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvesetup timeVSAvoidease of configuration
Core Design Contradiction:
Loss of timeVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The latching pins are pre-positioned on the splicing member body, and the connection holes are pre-configured with locking portions, allowing for immediate engagement and locking without requiring additional alignment steps or separate fastening operations during assembly

Inventive Principle:
Principle #10Preliminary action

Solution Approach 2:

The connection system is divided into modular components (splicing member with integrated latching pins, bracket with connection holes) that can be independently manufactured and assembled, allowing for quick assembly by simply engaging the pre-configured locking features

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

3Reliability

If simple connection methods are used, then setup time is reduced, but structural reliability decreases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvelocking reliabilityVSAvoidassembly efficiency
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSProductivity

Solution Approach 1:

The latching pins automatically engage with the locking portions of the connection holes when the splicing member is inserted, creating a self-locking mechanism that ensures reliable fixation without requiring additional fastening operations or complex adjustment procedures

Inventive Principle:
Principle #25Self-service

Solution Approach 2:

The splicing member acts as an intermediary component between the solar module and bracket, providing a pre-configured connection interface with latching pins that mediate the joining process, ensuring both reliability and speed by eliminating the need for separate fasteners and alignment procedures

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

Data Source

PatentUS8578666B2Solar device
Publication Date: 2013.11.12 AU OPTRONICS CORP
  • US8578666B2 patent drawing
  • US8578666B2 patent drawing
  • US8578666B2 patent drawing

AI summary

A solar device for being configured on a platform is provided. The solar device includes a solar module, a splicing member, and a bracket. The solar module has a first connection hole. The splicing member has a body, a first latching pin, and a second latching pin. The first and second latching pins extend from the body and face against each other. The bracket is fixed to the platform and has a second connection hole. The first latching pin passes through and is locked to the first connection hole correspondingly, and the second latching pin passes through and is locked to the second connection hole correspondingly, such that the splicing member is connected between the solar module and the bracket.