Bracket Mount for Solar Panel Micro-Inverter Electrical Bonding
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing methods for installing micro-inverters and power optimizers on solar panel arrays are challenging due to the need for multiple parts and lack of direct mounting and electrical bonding to the solar panel frames, making the process complex and inefficient.
Innovation Solution
A bracket mount assembly with a flange and bolt system that includes a threaded aperture and serrated portions to securely attach micro-inverters and power optimizers to solar panel frames, creating an electrical bonding path while minimizing the number of required parts.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If micro-inverters and power optimizers are mounted using standard brackets with slots and separate fastening hardware, then the devices can be secured to mounting structures, but the installation requires multiple parts and becomes complex
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the mounting bracket and electrical bonding function into a single integrated flange assembly. The flange includes both mechanical fastening features (slots for fasteners) and electrical bonding surfaces (serrated portions) that directly contact the solar panel frame, eliminating the need for separate mounting brackets and electrical bonding components.
Solution Approach 2:
The flange assembly serves multiple functions simultaneously: it provides mechanical support for the micro-inverter or power optimizer, enables electrical bonding to the solar panel frame, and facilitates straightforward installation. This multi-functional design reduces the overall number of components needed in the system.
2Productivity
If separate mounting and electrical bonding systems are used, then secure attachment is achieved, but the installation process becomes time-consuming and inefficient
Solution Approach 1:
The flange integrates mechanical fastening and electrical bonding operations into a single component that is installed in one step. The slots accommodate fasteners for mechanical attachment while the serrated portions make direct contact with the solar panel frame to establish electrical bonding, eliminating the need for separate installation steps.
3Reliability
If standard mounting brackets are used without electrical bonding capability, then installation is straightforward, but electrical bonding to the solar panel frame cannot be achieved
Solution Approach 1:
The flange is designed to perform both mechanical mounting and electrical bonding functions. It includes slots for receiving fasteners to secure the device to the solar panel, and serrated portions that contact the solar panel frame to establish electrical bonding, combining multiple functions in a single component.
4Stability of the object's composition
If multiple separate components are used for mounting, then secure attachment is achieved, but the overall system profile increases and space requirements expand
Solution Approach 1:
The flange consolidates multiple mounting and bonding functions into a single component that attaches directly to the solar panel. This integrated design reduces the overall volume and profile of the installation compared to using separate mounting brackets and electrical bonding components.
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 allows for easy, efficient, and secure installation of micro-inverters and power optimizers directly to solar panel frames with minimal parts, enhancing the installation process and providing a stable electrical connection.
Implementation Method 1
the flange to comprise a raised portion for penetrating a surface oxidation layer on a solar panel frame
Implementation Method 2
the flange to comprise a threaded aperture that receives a threaded shaft on the bolt
Data Source
AI summary
In various representative aspects, an assembly for connecting and electrically bonding electronic equipment to solar panel frames is provided. More specifically, the present invention relates generally to an assembly for securing and installing micro inverter and power optimizer units for use with solar panel arrays that are typically installed on roof structures. The assembly comprises a bracket assembly that couples micro invertors and power optimizers to solar panel frames.