Solar Panel Frame Mounting with Adjustable Brackets and Tethers
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing solar panel mounting systems are limited in the types of surfaces they can attach to, the number of attachment mechanisms required, and the flexibility of panel positioning, making installation cumbersome and restrictive.
Innovation Solution
A solar panel mounting system that minimizes attachment mechanisms by using a frame with through holes and adjustable brackets, allowing panels to be mounted at various angles on different surfaces, including rooftops, with optional safety tethers for secure attachment.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If traditional mounting structures are used, then panels can be securely attached to specific surfaces, but the system is limited in the types of surfaces it can attach to and requires multiple attachment mechanisms
Solution Approach 1:
The mounting system uses a universal bracket design that can attach to multiple surface types (flat surfaces, standing seam roofs, pitched roofs) through a single standardized interface. The bracket incorporates multiple mounting options and adjustable features that allow it to function across different installation scenarios, eliminating the need for surface-specific attachment mechanisms.
Solution Approach 2:
The mounting system is divided into modular components including brackets, rods, and clips that can be independently selected and combined. This segmentation allows the same basic components to be configured for different surface types and panel arrangements, reducing the need for specialized attachment mechanisms for each surface type.
2Reliability
If multiple attachment mechanisms are used, then panels can be securely fixed, but installation becomes cumbersome and time-consuming
Solution Approach 1:
The system combines multiple attachment functions into integrated components. The bracket simultaneously provides structural support, panel attachment, and positioning functions that would traditionally require separate mechanisms. This merging reduces the number of installation steps while maintaining secure panel fixation.
Solution Approach 2:
The brackets and rods are pre-configured with standardized hole patterns and attachment points that allow for quick alignment and fastening. Pre-drilled holes and predetermined mounting positions eliminate the need for complex measurements and adjustments during installation, speeding up the process while ensuring proper panel security.
3Reliability
If fixed mounting positions are used, then panels can be securely installed, but freedom of mounting positions is restricted
Solution Approach 1:
The mounting system incorporates adjustable brackets with movable components that allow the mounting position to be varied along the panel edges. The rod and bracket configuration enables adjustment of panel tilt angles and horizontal positioning while maintaining secure attachment, providing both stability and flexibility.
Solution Approach 2:
The system allows changing of mounting parameters such as tilt angle, horizontal position, and vertical height through adjustable bracket configurations. These parameter changes are achieved while maintaining secure attachment through the standardized rod-bracket interface, enabling flexible positioning without compromising installation stability.
4Ease of operation
If simplified attachment mechanisms are used, then installation is easier, but the number of attachment mechanisms increases
Solution Approach 1:
The standardized bracket and rod components serve multiple functions including structural support, panel attachment, positioning, and adjustment. This multi-functionality reduces the total number of different component types needed while maintaining installation simplicity through consistent, easy-to-use interfaces across all mounting scenarios.
Data Source
AI summary
In a first embodiment a framed solar panel is retained by a rod inserted through a hole in the panel frame. The rod is attached to the top of a bracket, which is mounted at its bottom to a substantially flat surface. In a second embodiment, a framed solar collector panel is retained by a clip which is designed to fit over the top edge of the frame. The clip is then attached to the top of a second bracket. In a fourth embodiment a tether is fastened between the through hole and the flat surface. These embodiments may be used at either or both ends of the frame. Each embodiment may include a safety tether that is connected between the frame and the bracket.