Spring Clamp Structure for Distributed PV Panel Mounting Load
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional fasteners for photovoltaic (PV) panels face issues such as non-standardized dimensions, increased installation complexity, risk of installer error, and maintenance challenges due to torque requirements, and existing spring clamps do not effectively distribute clamping forces, especially for larger panels under high wind and snow loads.
Innovation Solution
A spring clamp design with multiple clamp sections and flexible connections, featuring V-shaped legs with receiver slots and interlocking teeth, bridges, and load distribution flanges to distribute clamping force over a larger area, reducing pressure points and preventing lateral movement.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If conventional fasteners (bolts, nuts, washers, rivets) are used to attach PV panels to mounting structures, then the panels can be securely mounted, but the installation complexity increases and installer errors become more likely due to non-standardized dimensions and torque requirements
Solution Approach 1:
The clamp is divided into multiple independent clamp sections (first clamp section, second clamp section, etc.), each with its own pair of legs and receiver slots. This segmentation allows each section to independently engage with the bracket and frame, distributing the mounting function across multiple simple units rather than requiring complex standardized fasteners
Solution Approach 2:
The invention changes the mounting approach from standardized dimensional fasteners requiring precise torque control to a spring-based mechanism where the clamping force is automatically adjusted by the spring's elastic properties, eliminating the need for torque specifications and dimensional standardization
2Ease of operation
If conventional spring clamps are used for PV panels, then installation is simplified, but clamping force distribution becomes inadequate especially for larger panels under high wind and snow loads
Solution Approach 1:
The clamp comprises multiple clamp sections (first clamp section with first pair of legs, second clamp section with second pair of legs, and additional intermediate clamp sections), each applying clamping force at separate locations. This distributes the total clamping force across multiple contact points between the bracket and frame, preventing stress concentration on larger PV panels
Solution Approach 2:
The invention transitions from a single-point or single-line clamping approach to a multi-dimensional distribution of clamping forces by arranging multiple clamp sections along the length of the PV panel, creating a distributed load path that spans multiple dimensions of the panel structure
3Stress or pressure
If multiple clamp sections are added to distribute clamping force, then stress distribution improves, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
Multiple clamp sections are connected through flexible connections (such as hinges or pivots) to form a single integrated clamp assembly. This merging approach allows the multiple clamping points to be actuated simultaneously by a single installation action, maintaining ease of operation while achieving distributed force application
Solution Approach 2:
The flexible connections between clamp sections use hinge joints or pivoting mechanisms that allow the rigid clamp sections to articulate relative to each other. This flexibility enables the clamp assembly to adapt to slight variations in panel dimensions and installation conditions while maintaining the distributed clamping force 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
The design provides efficient clamping force distribution, reduces the risk of local deformation, and enhances stability under environmental loads, simplifying installation and maintenance while minimizing material stress.
Implementation Method 1
The first pair of legs configured to move between a compressed configuration with the first pair of legs compressed towards one another and an expanded configuration
Data Source
AI summary
Clamping systems including a clamp configured to clamp a photovoltaic panel flange to a base bracket flange are generally described. In some embodiments, the clamp may include two or more sets of legs connected to each other, each set of legs extending from an apex joint, with each leg including a receiving slot for receiving the panel flange and bracket flange therein. In some embodiments, the clamp includes teeth configured to interlock with grooves formed on the bracket flange.