Solar Module Support Arrangement With Adjustable Form-Fit Height Lock
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing support arrangements for solar modules lack a reliable and adjustable height adjustment mechanism that can handle high loads, particularly when using steel components which are prone to corrosion and costly to produce with toothing for high carrying capacity.
Innovation Solution
A support arrangement featuring a post with a first surface section, a connecting element with a second surface section, a stop element providing form-fitting connections at different heights, and fastening elements to secure these components, allowing for vertical displacement and adjustment while maintaining stability and preventing rust.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Strength
If steel components are used for high carrying capacity, then strength is improved, but manufacturing cost increases and corrosion resistance deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The support arrangement is divided into separate components: posts, connecting elements, and stop elements. Each component can be manufactured independently using appropriate materials and processes, reducing overall manufacturing complexity and cost while maintaining high strength where needed through strategic material placement.
Solution Approach 2:
The invention combines different materials strategically - steel components provide structural strength and load-bearing capacity, while aluminum or other corrosion-resistant materials can be used for components exposed to weather. This composite approach optimizes both strength and corrosion resistance while managing manufacturing costs.
2Strength
If toothing is provided on steel components for high carrying capacity, then strength is improved, but manufacturing complexity increases and anti-corrosion treatment becomes problematic
Solution Approach 1:
The load-bearing function is segmented into specific components (posts and connecting elements) rather than requiring toothing on all components. This reduces manufacturing complexity while maintaining high carrying capacity where structurally necessary.
Solution Approach 2:
Instead of adding toothing to increase friction and load capacity, the invention uses form-fitting geometric connections that inherently provide high carrying capacity through mechanical interlocking, eliminating the need for complex toothing patterns and associated anti-corrosion treatment challenges.
3Stability of the object's composition
If form-fitting connections are used for vertical support, then stability is improved, but adjustment flexibility deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The stop elements are designed to be movable along the posts during installation, allowing height adjustment. Once positioned, they provide stable form-fitting connections. This dynamic design enables both adjustment flexibility during installation and stability during operation.
Solution Approach 2:
The stop elements act as intermediaries between the rigid form-fitting connections and the adjustment requirement. They provide the stable mechanical connection needed for vertical support while their movable nature during installation enables height adjustment flexibility.
4Adaptability or versatility
If connecting elements are made adjustable in height, then adaptability is improved, but structural stability deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The connecting elements transition from a movable state during installation (enabling height adjustment) to a fixed state during operation (providing structural stability). The form-fitting connections with stop elements maintain stability once the desired height is achieved.
Solution Approach 2:
Height adjustment is performed as a preliminary action during installation before the structure is loaded into service. Once adjusted and connected, the form-fitting connections provide the structural stability needed for operational loads, separating the adjustment phase from the stable operational phase.
Data Source
AI summary
A support arrangement for a solar module includes a post having a first surface section. A support structure includes a connecting element presenting a second surface section facing the first surface section in a direction of a joint surface normal of the first and second surface sections. A stop element is arranged in the surface normal direction offset to the first and second surface sections. A first form-fitting connection exists between the stop element and the post and a second form-fitting connection exists between the stop element and the connecting element, providing vertical support of the connecting element relative to the post. The first and second form-fitting connections are producible at different heights of the connecting element relative to the post. A fastening element holds in place the first surface section and the second surface section relative to each other in the direction of the joint surface normal.