Solar Panel Alignment Strip With Resilient Stop for Size Variation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing methods for aligning solar panels on inclined surfaces, such as roofs, fail to account for slight size differences, leading to unsightly staggering and inefficiencies in panel alignment.
Innovation Solution
A method and device using a resilient stop, typically made of rubber, that compensates for size differences between solar panels by compressing to maintain even spacing, allowing for easier alignment and reusability.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of manufacture
If traditional clamps or rigid alignment devices are used to assemble solar panels, then the assembly process is simplified, but size differences between panels cause unsightly staggering and poor alignment
Solution Approach 1:
The alignment device changes its physical state from rigid to flexible by incorporating a resilient stop that can be compressed. This parameter change allows the device to adapt to size variations between panels while maintaining alignment function, resolving the contradiction between ease of assembly and alignment precision
Solution Approach 2:
The resilient stop acts as a flexible element within the alignment device, allowing it to deform and accommodate dimensional variations in solar panels. This flexibility enables precise alignment without requiring complex adjustment mechanisms, maintaining both ease of manufacture and alignment precision
2Manufacturing precision
If visual alignment methods are used to position solar panels, then alignment precision can be improved, but the alignment process becomes more time-consuming and complex
Solution Approach 1:
The alignment device serves as an intermediary tool between the installer and the solar panels, providing physical guidance for positioning. This mediator eliminates the need for time-consuming visual alignment by offering tactile and visual references through the resilient stop, reducing alignment time while maintaining precision
Solution Approach 2:
The resilient stop is pre-positioned on the alignment device at a specific distance from the panel edge. This preliminary action establishes the correct spacing and alignment reference before the panel is installed, eliminating the need for real-time visual adjustment and reducing alignment time
3Strength
If the alignment device is made rigid to maintain structural integrity, then device strength is improved, but the device cannot accommodate size differences between panels
Solution Approach 1:
The alignment device is segmented into rigid and flexible components. The main body remains rigid for structural integrity and strength, while the resilient stop is made flexible to accommodate size variations. This segmentation allows the device to maintain strength while gaining adaptability to different panel dimensions
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
Ensures even alignment of solar panels despite size variations, reducing visual imperfections and facilitating easy removal and reuse of the alignment device.
Implementation Method 1
a resilient stop, which is provided in a longitudinal direction on a side chosen from i) the first main side and ii) a strip side, said resilient stop extending in a direction transverse to and facing away from a plane defined by the second main side
Data Source
Figure 1A~1B
Figure 2A~3
Figure 4
AI summary
A method of aligning solar panels on a roof, said solar panels having - a first side, and a second side opposite of said first side, and - a third side and a fourth side, both sides extending from the first side to the second side. To accommodate for small variations in the dimensions of solar panels that could add up resulting in improper alignment, the method comprises the use of an elongated device, said device comprising a strip and a resilient stop provided in a longitudinal direction of the strip. The strip is place on the solar panel and with the first and second solar panels contacting opposite sides of the resilient stop the third solar panel is fixed to the roof.