Solar Panel Support Frame With Tool-Free Universal Fastening

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing solar module support devices require high production costs due to the need for specialized fastening elements and tools, and are not universally compatible with different solar module configurations, making them costly and inefficient to assemble and erect.

Innovation Solution

A support device with a U-profile design featuring a second fastening element with slots for engaging with the solar module's struts, allowing for secure attachment without specialized fastening elements and enabling easy assembly across various module configurations, along with elastomeric elements for enhanced support and ventilation.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Reliability

If specialized fastening elements and screw tools are used to erect solar modules, then the solar modules can be securely fastened, but the production cost increases and assembly becomes more complex

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvesecure fasteningVSAvoidassembly complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The invention extracts and eliminates the need for specialized fastening elements and screw tools by integrating the fastening function directly into the support structure itself. The support profile's legs are designed to directly engage with and secure the solar module frame, removing the separate fastening components and simplifying the assembly process while maintaining secure fastening.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #2Taking out (Extraction)

Solution Approach 2:

The invention merges the support function and fastening function into a single integrated structure. The support profile combines both load-bearing support and frame securing capabilities, eliminating the need for separate fastening elements and reducing assembly complexity while ensuring reliable secure fastening of solar modules.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #5Merging (Combining)

2Adaptability or versatility

If multiple types of fastening elements are provided for different solar module configurations, then compatibility with various modules is achieved, but production cost increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvecompatibility with different modulesVSAvoidproduction cost
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSEase of manufacture

Solution Approach 1:

The invention creates a universal support profile design that can accommodate different solar module configurations through a single standardized structure. The profile's geometry and engagement mechanism are designed to work with various module types without requiring specialized fastening elements, achieving both versatility and cost-effectiveness by eliminating the need for multiple component variants.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

Solution Approach 2:

The invention achieves adaptability to different solar module configurations by utilizing geometric parameters and dimensional variations in the profile design rather than changing the fundamental fastening mechanism. The support profile's dimensions, leg spacing, and engagement features can be adjusted to accommodate different module sizes and frame configurations while maintaining the same basic structure and manufacturing process.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #35Parameter changes

3Ease of operation

If a pivotable support wall is folded out from transport position to support position, then the solar module can be erected, but additional fastening elements and tools are required

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveerection processVSAvoidnumber of components
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of operationVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The invention extracts and removes the separate pivotable support wall mechanism and its associated fastening elements. Instead, the support profile is designed with integrated engagement features that directly secure the solar module frame during erection, eliminating the need for additional pivotable components and their fastening hardware while simplifying the overall erection process.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #2Taking out (Extraction)

Data Source

PatentEP2815191B1Device for supporting at least one solar panel
Publication Date: 2016.04.27 ILZHOFER WERNER
  • EP2815191B1 patent drawingFigure 1
  • EP2815191B1 patent drawingFigure 2
  • EP2815191B1 patent drawingFigure 3~5

AI summary

The invention relates to a device for supporting at least one solar panel comprising a rectangular frame (R) that includes two opposite struts (1, 2). The disclosed device comprises at least two supporting elements (S1, S2), each of which has a support bar (5), on one side (O) of which at least one first fastening element (6) for securing one (1) of the struts is provided. At least one support (7) is pivotally mounted on the support bar (5) at a specific distance from the first fastening element (6). The free end of said at least one support (7) includes a second fastening element (13) for securing the other strut (2) lying opposite the one strut (1).