Solar panel mounting apparatus
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing solar panel mounting systems lack the ability to easily adjust for varying module frame thicknesses, leading to installation challenges on non-uniform roof surfaces and requiring multiple mounting apparatuses for different frame heights.
Innovation Solution
A rail-less, indexable mounting assembly using stainless steel and aluminum alloys with a 'Click-On' tower attachment scheme, allowing for continuous height adjustment and accommodating different frame thicknesses through a dovetail clamp and spring clip mechanism, enabling post-installation height adjustment and smooth panel alignment.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a specific PV module mounting apparatus is used for a particular frame thickness, then the mounting is secure and stable, but the apparatus cannot accommodate varying frame thicknesses and requires multiple different mounting apparatuses
Solution Approach 1:
The mounting apparatus incorporates an adjustable height mechanism that allows the mounting structure to dynamically adapt to different PV module frame thicknesses. The height adjustment feature enables a single apparatus to transform its configuration, eliminating the need for multiple fixed-height mounting devices while maintaining secure attachment for various frame dimensions.
Solution Approach 2:
The mounting apparatus is designed with universal adaptability to handle multiple PV module frame thicknesses within a single device. By integrating adjustable height capabilities and adaptable clamping mechanisms, the apparatus performs the function of multiple specialized mounting devices, reducing inventory requirements and simplifying installation processes.
2Reliability
If multiple mounting apparatuses are used for different frame heights, then each apparatus is optimized for its specific frame thickness, but the installer must manage and switch between multiple apparatuses
Solution Approach 1:
The mounting apparatus features dynamic height adjustment capabilities that allow installers to configure the mounting structure to match the specific PV module frame thickness being installed. This eliminates the need to switch between multiple pre-configured mounting apparatuses, streamlining the installation process while maintaining optimized mounting security for each frame type.
Solution Approach 2:
The mounting apparatus enables parameter changes in its height configuration to adapt to different PV module frame thicknesses. By allowing continuous or discrete height adjustments, the apparatus maintains reliable mounting performance across various frame dimensions while simplifying installer operations to a single versatile device.
3Adaptability or versatility
If the mounting apparatus is fixed in height, then the structure is simple and robust, but it cannot accommodate non-uniform roof surfaces or varying frame thicknesses
Solution Approach 1:
The mounting apparatus incorporates dynamic height adjustment mechanisms that enable adaptation to non-uniform roof surfaces and varying PV module frame thicknesses. The adjustable legs or mounting height features allow the structure to compensate for surface irregularities while maintaining a relatively simple overall design that does not significantly increase device complexity.
Data Source
AI summary
A solar panel mounting assembly including a cap that includes a secure-side wing, a catch-side wing, and an integral vertical leg that protrudes downwardly from the catch-side wing. The vertical leg is integral with the catch-side wing and has a top end and a bottom end. A plurality of inwardly facing corrugations are disposed at the bottom end of the vertical leg. The solar panel mounting assembly further includes a base that includes a secure-side support surface, a tilted spring support ledge on a catch-side, and a plurality of outwardly-facing corrugations disposed on an upper horizontal portion of the base. An inwardly-facing corrugation of the vertical leg contacts and engages an outwardly-facing corrugation on the upper horizontal portion of the base, and the base is vertically adjustable with respect to the cap.