Solar Module Resilient Clip Mounting for Simplified Positioning

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing solar module mounting systems lack a clip that allows for easy hanging and secure engagement of solar modules, complicating their positioning and installation.

Innovation Solution

A resilient clip system that temporarily holds solar modules in a adjustable position before securely engaging them onto a mounting rack, accommodating modules of different sizes and configurations, using a clamp with a spring-loaded mechanism and grounding tabs for stability and electrical grounding.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Ease of operation

If a traditional rigid mounting system is used, then the solar module is securely held in position, but the positioning process is complex and time-consuming

Engineering Contradiction:
ImprovePositioning processVSAvoidInstallation time
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of operationVSLoss of time

Solution Approach 1:

The mounting system transitions from a rigid fixed-position clamp to a resilient clamp that can assume multiple positions (received, engaged, and intermediate positions). This parameter change in the clamp's positional flexibility allows installers to temporarily position modules for alignment before final engagement, significantly simplifying the positioning process and reducing installation time.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #35Parameter changes

Solution Approach 2:

The clamp is designed with resilient properties that enable it to dynamically move between different positions. The resilient nature allows the clamp to be temporarily positioned in a received position for module alignment, then moved to an engaged position for secure mounting. This dynamic capability transforms a static mounting system into a flexible one that accommodates installation needs.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

2Adaptability or versatility

If a fixed-position clamp is used, then the solar module is securely mounted, but adjustment and alignment are difficult

Engineering Contradiction:
ImprovePositioning flexibilityVSAvoidAlignment process
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The clamp's ability to change its positional parameter from fixed to variable enables temporary positioning in a received position and final positioning in an engaged position. This parameter change provides positioning flexibility while maintaining ease of alignment, as installers can adjust modules during the intermediate received position before final engagement.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #35Parameter changes

Solution Approach 2:

The mounting process is segmented into distinct phases: temporary positioning in the received position for alignment and adjustment, then final securing in the engaged position. This segmentation of the mounting function allows alignment operations to be performed independently before final fixation, improving both adaptability and ease of operation.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

3Productivity

If a resilient clip system is used, then installation is simplified and accelerated, but the securing force must be sufficient to hold the module securely

Engineering Contradiction:
ImproveInstallation speedVSAvoidSecuring force
Core Design Contradiction:
ProductivityVSStrength

Solution Approach 1:

The resilient clamp provides dynamic securing where the resilient properties enable quick installation through elastic deformation and recovery. The clamp can be rapidly positioned and engaged, and the resilient nature ensures sufficient securing force is generated automatically when the clamp is moved to the engaged position, balancing installation speed with secure mounting.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

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

This solution simplifies the installation process, increases flexibility in positioning solar modules, reduces installation time and cost, and ensures secure and efficient mounting on a variety of structures.

Implementation Method 1

a resilient clip that allows the solar module to hung in a mounting position in a clamp and then engages the solar module to hold the solar module in the desired location

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectElasticity: Elasticity

Implementation Method 2

using a clamp with a spring-loaded mechanism and grounding tabs for stability and electrical grounding

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectSpring: Spring

Data Source

PatentUS11258397B2Solar module mounting system
Publication Date: 2022.02.22 APA SOLAR LLC
  • US11258397B2 patent drawing
  • US11258397B2 patent drawing
  • US11258397B2 patent drawing

AI summary

A mounting system for a solar module that uses a resilient clip to locate and secure the solar module in a desired location.