Stacking spacer, photovoltaic module frame and tracking device assembly
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing methods for stacking photovoltaic module frames and mounting them on tracking units are inefficient, as they often result in frame damage due to direct contact, have limited load capacity, and require additional costly and time-consuming mounting devices.
Innovation Solution
The use of stacking spacers with complementary forms that fit into lateral profile grooves of photovoltaic module frames, allowing for self-alignment and load transfer between spacers rather than frames, enabling secure stacking and direct mounting on tracking units without additional elements.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If additional stacking elements are mounted on frame corners to prevent damage, then frame protection is improved, but device complexity and cost increase due to requiring separate mounting means
Solution Approach 1:
The stacking spacer integrates multiple functions: it provides protective spacing between frames, serves as a mounting interface for tracking units, and eliminates the need for separate corner elements. The spacer is inserted into profile grooves that are part of the frame structure itself, combining the spacing function with the mounting function in a single integrated component.
Solution Approach 2:
The stacking spacer serves multiple purposes: it maintains defined clearance between stacked frames to prevent damage, provides a load-bearing interface for stacking, and offers mounting capability for tracking units through its support members. This multi-functional design replaces what would otherwise require multiple separate components.
2Reliability
If stacking elements are used to maintain clearance between frames, then frame damage is prevented, but load capacity is limited as weight transfers through the frames themselves
Solution Approach 1:
The stacking spacer acts as an intermediary element between stacked frames. It inserts into profile grooves of adjacent frames and provides a dedicated load-bearing path through its support members, preventing direct frame-to-frame contact while carrying the stacking load through its own structural elements rather than through the frames.
3Reliability
If existing mounting devices are used to attach photovoltaic modules to tracking units, then mounting is achieved, but cost and installation time increase
Solution Approach 1:
The stacking spacer integrates the mounting function directly into the spacing component. The support members of the spacer can directly receive and secure tracking unit mounting brackets, eliminating the need for separate mounting devices and reducing installation steps to a single integrated operation.
Data Source
AI summary
A stacking spacer for a photovoltaic module frame comprises a main body, extending in a longitudinal direction, a connecting member, extending in the longitudinal direction and protruding from the main body, adapted for being inserted in at least one lateral profile groove of the photovoltaic module frame, and two opposed support members, arranged on respective opposed longitudinal sides of the main body, extending in the longitudinal direction, wherein the two opposed support members have complementary forms, whereby at least two stacking spacers can be securely stacked on top of each other. Photovoltaic module frames and tracking device assemblies may include photovoltaic modules comprising such stacking spacers.