Solar Panel Support Mounting for Auxiliary Electronics With Snap Hooks
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing methods for attaching electronic auxiliary components, such as inverters, to solar panel support structures on roofs are inefficient and require separate fastening elements like screws, exposing these components to direct sunlight and increasing their visibility and vulnerability to theft.
Innovation Solution
A device with deformable hook-shaped fastening members that securely attaches to the solar panel support structure via a snap arrangement, eliminating the need for screws and positioning the electronic components in the shadow, hidden from view, using a housing with a displaceable securing element to prevent decoupling.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of manufacture
If separate fastening elements like screws are used to attach electronic auxiliary components to the support structure, then the attachment method is simple and straightforward, but additional fastening elements are required which increases device complexity and material costs
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the attachment function and the electronic auxiliary component housing into a single integrated device. The housing itself incorporates attachment elements that can directly engage with the support structure, eliminating the need for separate fastening elements like screws. This merging of functions reduces the total number of components while maintaining attachment simplicity.
Solution Approach 2:
The housing is designed to serve multiple functions: it protects the electronic auxiliary component, provides structural support, and incorporates attachment capabilities directly into its structure. This multi-functionality eliminates the need for dedicated separate fastening elements, reducing device complexity while maintaining ease of manufacture.
2Reliability
If electronic auxiliary components are attached to the support structure using conventional methods, then the components are securely fastened, but they are exposed to direct sunlight which reduces their durability
Solution Approach 1:
The patent positions the electronic auxiliary component in a different spatial dimension relative to the support structure - specifically, underneath the solar panel array. This dimensional repositioning places the heat-sensitive component in the shadow zone beneath the panels, protecting it from direct sunlight while maintaining secure attachment through the integrated housing design.
3Ease of operation
If electronic auxiliary components are mounted on outer walls or separate support structures, then they are easily accessible and visible, but this increases visibility and vulnerability to theft
Solution Approach 1:
The patent nests the electronic auxiliary component within the integrated housing structure that is attached to the solar panel support structure. This nesting conceals the valuable electronic component within the larger solar panel array structure, making it less visible and less accessible to potential thieves while maintaining operational accessibility through designed access points in the housing.
4Adaptability or versatility
If separate support structures are purchased and fitted to attach electronic components, then attachment is possible, but this increases material costs and installation complexity
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the attachment function into the electronic auxiliary component housing itself. The housing incorporates attachment elements that directly engage with the existing solar panel support structure, eliminating the need for separate attachment structures or additional support frameworks. This reduces material costs while maintaining adaptability to the support structure.
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
This solution allows for efficient, secure, and aesthetically beneficial attachment of electronic components to solar panel support structures, protecting them from sunlight and theft while utilizing existing infrastructure, thereby enhancing durability and reducing material costs.
Implementation Method 1
at least part of the coupling element, preferably at least part of each hook-shaped fastening element (if used), is deformable, in particular flexible
Implementation Method 2
the device can easily be attached, preferably be hooked securely and/or be clamped securely, in particular by means of a snap arrangement
Implementation Method 3
the access opening is provided with at least one securing element which is displaceable with respect to the housing to secure the electronic auxiliary component in the housing
Data Source
AI summary
The invention relates to a device for attaching electronic auxiliary components to a support structure for solar panels. The invention also relates to an assembly, including a support structure for solar panels, and at least one device according to the invention which is attached to the support structure. The invention furthermore relates to a method for attaching an electronic auxiliary component to a support structure for solar panels by using a device according to the invention.