Attachment bracket apparatus
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing solar panel mounting systems are inefficient and time-consuming due to the complexity of assembly and the need for multiple parts, particularly when securing panels on roofs, which can be physically demanding and hazardous.
Innovation Solution
An attachment bracket apparatus that includes through holes for securing to various structures, divots for guiding fasteners, and an integrated sealing system to create a watertight seal without standard flashings, reducing the need for shingle cutting and lowering installation costs and time.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If standard flashings and multiple parts are used to secure PV modules, then the mounting system provides secure attachment, but the assembly becomes complex and time-consuming
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple functions into a single integrated mounting bracket that incorporates both the attachment mechanism and flashing elements. This eliminates the need for separate flashings and multiple parts, reducing assembly complexity while maintaining secure attachment and watertight sealing capabilities
Solution Approach 2:
The mounting bracket is designed to perform multiple functions simultaneously: securing the PV module to the roof structure, providing flashing for weatherproofing, and creating watertight seals. This multi-functional design reduces the number of components needed while ensuring reliable and secure attachment
2Reliability
If multiple parts and standard flashings are used, then the mounting system achieves watertight seal, but the installation time and costs increase
Solution Approach 1:
The integrated mounting bracket combines flashing elements and sealing capabilities into a single component, eliminating the need for separate flashings and reducing the number of installation steps. This maintains watertight sealing while significantly reducing installation time
Solution Approach 2:
The mounting bracket is pre-designed with integrated flashing and sealing features, so that watertight sealing is achieved as part of the primary mounting operation rather than requiring separate flashing installation steps afterward
3Reliability
If standard flashings and multiple components are used, then the mounting system provides secure attachment, but the number of parts increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent integrates multiple components including mounting brackets, flashing elements, and sealing features into a single unified structure. This reduces the number of separate parts from multiple components to essentially one integrated unit, while maintaining secure attachment capabilities
Solution Approach 2:
The single integrated mounting bracket performs multiple functions that previously required separate parts: structural attachment, weatherproofing flashing, and sealing. This multi-functional design reduces part quantity while ensuring reliable secure attachment
Data Source
AI summary
A bracket includes a base configured to be mounted to a mounting surface and a flange extending from the base and positioned to bisect the base thereby forming a first side and a second side of the base. The base includes a first hole disposed along a central axis of the base and in the first side of the base, a second hole disposed along the central axis of the base and in the second side of the base, and one or more divots formed in a top side of the base and disposed on the first side of the base. Fasteners are inserted through the first hole and the second hole when the bracket is secured to a first mounting structure. Furthermore, fasteners are inserted through the first hole, the second hole, and are drilled through the one or more divots when the bracket is secured to a second mounting structure.