Adjustable Solar Panel Roof Mounting for Pitched Tile Profiles
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Solution Overview
Problem
The installation of solar panels on existing roofs is labor-intensive and costly due to the need for multiple personnel, complex procedures, and the requirement for various tools and components, particularly on pitched roofs with different tile profiles, which complicates height adjustment and weatherproofing.
Innovation Solution
A modular mounting system comprising adjustable components with finger-like projections and a spring clip mechanism allows for easy height adjustment and tool-free assembly, reducing the number of components and tools needed, and accommodating different tile profiles with a rotary adjustment system.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If traditional mounting methods are used on pitched roofs, then secure attachment is achieved, but installation becomes labor-intensive and costly requiring multiple personnel and complex procedures
Solution Approach 1:
The mounting system is divided into separate modular components: a mounting bracket that attaches to the roof structure, and a mounting rail that connects to the bracket. This segmentation allows for simplified installation where components can be independently positioned and assembled, reducing the complexity of the overall installation process while maintaining secure attachment.
Solution Approach 2:
The mounting bracket incorporates an adjustable mechanism that allows the mounting rail to be positioned at different heights and angles. This dynamic adjustment capability enables the system to adapt to various roof tile profiles and installation requirements without requiring complex custom fittings, thereby simplifying the installation process while ensuring reliable attachment.
2Reliability
If multiple components and tools are used for mounting, then secure and weather-tight fit is achieved, but device complexity and number of tools required increases
Solution Approach 1:
The mounting bracket integrates multiple functions into a single component: it provides structural attachment to the roof, enables height adjustment, and ensures weather-tight sealing. By combining these functions into one integrated bracket rather than using separate components for each function, the system reduces the total number of parts while maintaining the required weather-tight fit.
Solution Approach 2:
The mounting bracket is designed as a universal component that can accommodate different roof tile profiles and provide multiple mounting positions. This multi-functionality eliminates the need for multiple specialized components for different installation scenarios, reducing device complexity while ensuring reliable weather-tight installation across various roof types.
3Adaptability or versatility
If height adjustment is made for different tile profiles, then adaptability is improved, but adjustment complexity and time required increases
Solution Approach 1:
The mounting bracket incorporates a quick-adjust mechanism that allows the mounting rail height to be dynamically changed without complex procedures. The adjustable component can be easily repositioned along the bracket's length and locked into place, enabling rapid adaptation to different tile profiles while minimizing adjustment time.
Solution Approach 2:
The mounting system allows for continuous adjustment of the mounting rail position along the bracket, changing the vertical parameter to accommodate different tile thicknesses. This continuous parameter adjustment capability provides adaptability for various tile profiles while maintaining a simple adjustment process that does not require multiple discrete components or complex procedures.
Data Source
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AI summary
A mounting for a solar panel, solar array or the like, comprises a first component (1100) adapted for being rigidly mounted to a structure such as a pitched tiled roof or the like, a second component (1101) configured to engage said first component, said second component having a plurality of mounting points (1115 ― 1117); and engaging means (1105, 1109) for engaging said first and second components with respect to each other; wherein an orientation of said second component is adjustable with respect to said first component such that said mounting points provide a plurality of possible mounting locations at different distances from said first component.