Spring Latch Saddle Connector for Fast Solar Tracker Module Mounting
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Solution Overview
Problem
The installation of photovoltaic modules on solar tracker arrays is time-consuming and requires specialized equipment, leading to increased costs and inefficiencies, particularly due to the need for precise alignment and secure mounting on torque tubes.
Innovation Solution
The use of photovoltaic module connectors with spring latch assemblies that can be manually or tool-assistedly attached to torque tubes, distributing load and shear forces, and featuring adjustable and dynamic latch assemblies to securely fasten modules without the need for riveting or heavy equipment, allowing for balanced and stable module positioning.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If conventional mounting methods are used to secure photovoltaic modules to torque tubes, then structural integrity is ensured, but installation time increases and installation complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies the dynamics principle by using a spring-loaded latch mechanism that automatically engages and secures the photovoltaic module to the torque tube. The spring provides dynamic force to push the latch into the engaged position, eliminating the need for manual fastening operations while ensuring reliable structural connection. This dynamic mechanism reduces installation time significantly compared to conventional static mounting methods.
Solution Approach 2:
The latch mechanism incorporates a self-latching feature where the spring-loaded design automatically secures the module once positioned on the torque tube. The system serves itself by using the spring force to maintain engagement without requiring additional fasteners, bolts, or complex assembly steps, thereby reducing installation complexity and time while maintaining structural integrity.
2Reliability
If conventional mounting methods are used to secure photovoltaic modules to torque tubes, then structural integrity is ensured, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The mounting system is segmented into distinct functional components: the latch element, the spring mechanism, and the engagement surfaces on the torque tube. This segmentation allows each component to perform its specific function independently, simplifying the overall installation process. The modular design reduces device complexity by breaking down the mounting operation into simple, intuitive steps rather than requiring complex multi-step procedures.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent extracts the fastening function from complex multi-component mounting systems and consolidates it into a single integrated latch mechanism. By taking out the essential securing function and implementing it through a simple spring-loaded latch, the device complexity is reduced while maintaining the necessary structural integrity for reliable module attachment.
3Manufacturing precision
If precise alignment is required for mounting photovoltaic modules on torque tubes, then mounting accuracy is improved, but installation time increases
Solution Approach 1:
The latch mechanism is designed with preliminary alignment features that guide the photovoltaic module into the correct position on the torque tube before engagement. The spring-loaded design allows for self-alignment during the approach phase, ensuring mounting accuracy is achieved automatically as part of the installation process rather than requiring separate alignment steps, thus preventing installation time increase.
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 reduces installation time and costs by enabling faster and more efficient attachment of photovoltaic modules to torque tubes, improving the overall efficiency and cost-effectiveness of solar tracker array assembly while maintaining structural integrity and alignment.
Implementation Method 1
The spring latch assembly can be manually or tool-assistedly attached to torque tubes, distributing load and shear forces
Implementation Method 2
The spring latch assembly can be manually or tool-assistedly attached to torque tubes, distributing load and shear forces
Data Source
AI summary
Photovoltaic modules are mounted onto a solar tracker array torque tube via pairs or left-handed and right-handed photovoltaic array connectors having spring latch assemblies. The left-handed and right-handed photovoltaic array connectors have orientation projections that couple with and extend into the interior body of the torque tube. The orientation projections on the spring latch assemblies of each pair of left-handed and right-handed photovoltaic array connector allow for the photovoltaic array connectors to fit over and settle on a torque tube, and thereby support and mount a photovoltaic module as part of a solar tracker array.