Solar Module Mounting With Thermal Compensation Deflectors
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing solar panel mounting systems face challenges in securely retaining solar panels at an angle to maximize sunlight exposure and accommodating thermal expansion, while also ensuring stability and ease of installation.
Innovation Solution
A solar module mounting system comprising a ballast, a link member embedded in the ballast, an attachment module, and a deflector, which allows for adjustable attachment of solar panels to a shoe structure, providing stability and flexibility to accommodate thermal expansion and varying roof surfaces.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Power
If solar panels are mounted at an angle from the horizontal to maximize sunlight exposure, then the power generation capability is improved, but the mounting system complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The mounting system is divided into separate functional components: ballasts for weight, link members for connection, attachment modules for securing panels, and deflectors for wind management. This segmentation allows each component to be optimized independently while maintaining overall system functionality for angled mounting.
Solution Approach 2:
The mounting system incorporates movable and adjustable elements that allow the structure to adapt to thermal expansion and contraction forces. The link members and attachment modules are designed to accommodate movement while maintaining the angled orientation for optimal power generation.
2Stability of the object's composition
If the mounting system securely retains solar panels in place, then the stability is improved, but the ability to accommodate thermal expansion decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The mounting system uses materials and design features that change physical parameters in response to temperature variations. The link members and attachment modules are designed with tolerances and flexible connections that allow dimensional changes due to thermal expansion while maintaining secure panel retention through gravity and friction.
3Power
If multiple solar panels are mounted together in an array to combine power generation, then the total power output is improved, but the installation difficulty increases
Solution Approach 1:
The mounting components are designed as universal, standardized parts that can be used across multiple panels in an array. The ballasts, link members, and attachment modules follow consistent design patterns that simplify installation procedures and reduce the need for custom fabrication when scaling from single panels to full arrays.
4Reliability
If the mounting system uses heavy ballasts for stability, then the retention reliability is improved, but the device weight increases
Solution Approach 1:
The system uses ballasts as counterweights to provide downward force that secures the solar panels against uplift forces from wind and maintains proper orientation. The ballast weight is carefully calculated to provide sufficient retention reliability while minimizing unnecessary weight that would increase installation difficulty and structural requirements.
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 system effectively secures solar panels at desired angles, reduces mechanical forces caused by thermal expansion, and simplifies installation by allowing for flexible attachment and wire management, while protecting the roof from damage.
Implementation Method 1
allow local motion of the first deflector relative to the first support member in response to thermal expansion or contraction of the first deflector
Data Source
AI summary
An apparatus for supporting a solar module is disclosed including: a first support member; a first wind deflector configured to be attached to the first support member; and a first attachment mechanism configured to attach the first support member to the first wind deflector and allow local motion of the first wind deflector relative to the first support member in response to thermal expansion or contraction of the first wind deflector.