Stackable Photovoltaic Module Frame for Slip-Free Stacking
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing stackable photovoltaic modules face challenges in preventing slipping and damage during stacking due to sharp edges and complex mounting processes, which complicate assembly and transportation.
Innovation Solution
A stackable photovoltaic module design featuring frame elements with miters and connectors that form a smooth, stable frame with rounded projections and recesses, allowing for easy assembly and gentle load transfer without visible connectors, and incorporating a hollow chamber profile for cable management and drainage.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Stability of the object's composition
If anti-slip elements with sharp edges are integrated into the frame to prevent slipping, then the frames are prevented from slipping among themselves, but the sharp edges can cause damage to the frame surface when stacking the modules
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies curvature by replacing sharp edges with rounded anti-slip elements. The frame elements feature rounded projections and recesses instead of sharp edges, maintaining the interlocking anti-slip function while eliminating damage to the frame surface during stacking operations.
2Strength
If a circumferential hollow frame profile is mounted on the semiconductor component to provide structural support, then the module gains structural integrity, but the mounting process requires great effort
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the circumferential frame into multiple separate frame elements that can be individually mounted and connected. This segmentation transforms the complex task of mounting a complete circumferential frame into simpler, more manageable steps of attaching and connecting individual elements, significantly reducing mounting effort.
Solution Approach 2:
The frame elements are designed to nest together through interconnected projections and recesses, allowing them to be assembled in a step-by-step manner where each element integrates with the previous one, simplifying the overall mounting process.
3Stability of the object's composition
If stacking bars with projections and recesses are used to prevent slipping, then the photovoltaic modules are prevented from slipping, but the stacking bars must either be disposed of or transported to the production site for reuse
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the anti-slip stacking function directly into the frame elements themselves by integrating projections and recesses into the frame structure. This eliminates the need for separate stacking bars, as the frame elements directly provide the interlocking mechanism, thereby eliminating transport or disposal requirements for separate stacking components.
4Device complexity
If load transfer takes place exclusively via corner connectors to simplify the frame structure, then the frame structure is simplified, but the connection stability may be compromised
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the frame into multiple connected elements with standardized connection interfaces. This segmentation allows for simplified individual components while maintaining overall stability through the cumulative effect of multiple connection points distributed around the frame structure.
Data Source
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AI summary
Stackable photovoltaic module (1) comprising at least one photovoltaic element (2) which is circumferentially surrounded by a frame (21), wherein the frame (21) has at least one projection (12) and at least one recess (13) which interlock when a first frame (21, 21') is arranged on a second frame (21, 21"), wherein the frame (21, 21', 21") consists of several frame elements (4, 4', 4") which are connected by at least one connector (6).