Solar Panel Clamping Assembly With Movable Saddles and Keepers
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing apparatuses for securing photovoltaic (PV) modules on structures are often inefficient and difficult to assemble, leading to increased time and physical demands on workers.
Innovation Solution
A clamping system designed to securely attach PV modules, featuring a base with an elongated bar and moveable saddles with rotatable keepers, allowing for quick and efficient assembly and adjustment.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If existing apparatuses are used to secure PV modules, then the modules can be mounted on structures, but the assembly process becomes time-consuming and physically demanding
Solution Approach 1:
The clamping system is divided into distinct functional components: a base structure for mounting, movable saddles for positioning, and rotatable keepers for securing. This segmentation allows each component to be optimized independently and assembled quickly through simple connection mechanisms, directly addressing the time-consuming assembly issue of existing apparatuses.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent employs movable saddles that can slide along the base and rotatable keepers that can pivot into place. These dynamic elements enable rapid adjustment and installation without requiring complex fastening operations, significantly reducing assembly time and physical effort compared to static, rigid mounting systems.
2Reliability
If existing clamping apparatuses are used, then PV modules can be secured, but the number of parts and arrangements increase complexity
Solution Approach 1:
The base structure serves multiple functions: it provides mounting attachment points, guides the movement of saddles, and supports the entire clamping mechanism. This multi-functionality reduces the need for separate components, simplifying the overall device while maintaining reliable securing capability.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent combines the positioning and securing functions into an integrated system where the movable saddles and rotatable keepers work together as a unified mechanism. This merging of functions reduces the number of separate parts compared to existing apparatuses that use multiple independent components for positioning and fastening.
3Ease of manufacture
If existing apparatuses are used, then modules can be mounted, but assembly requires significant physical effort from workers
Solution Approach 1:
The movable saddles slide along guided tracks on the base, requiring minimal force to reposition. The rotatable keepers pivot on simple hinge mechanisms, eliminating the need for complex fastening operations. These dynamic design choices significantly reduce the physical strain on workers during assembly and adjustment compared to rigid, force-intensive existing apparatuses.
Solution Approach 2:
The clamping system is designed to be self-aligning through the guided movement of saddles and the natural pivot points of keepers. This self-service mechanism reduces the precision and force required by workers, making assembly easier and less physically demanding while maintaining secure module attachment.
Data Source
AI summary
A clamping system configured to clamp a photovoltaic module. The clamping system includes a base. A saddle is movably attached to the base to be moved between a first position, in which at least a portion of the saddle is raised compared to the base, and a second position, in which the at least the portion of the saddle is laid adjacent the base. A keeper is movably attached to the saddle such that the keeper catches the photovoltaic module against the saddle, during installation of the photovoltaic module.