Standing Seam Clamp Assembly for Variable Roof Seam Profiles
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Solution Overview
Problem
Mounting equipment such as solar photovoltaic panels on standing seam roofs is challenging due to variations in seam shapes, heights, and thicknesses, leading to increased costs and complexity with existing clamp systems.
Innovation Solution
A standing seam clamp system that can be adapted to various seam types by changing a removable outer clamping section, featuring an outer clamp member, inner clamp member, and outer support member with slideable cooperation, allowing for easy assembly and secure mounting of solar panels with or without rails.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If multiple clamp types are used for different seam shapes, then adaptability to various seam types is improved, but device complexity and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The clamp assembly is designed with a universal base structure that can accommodate multiple seam types (L-shaped, I-shaped, bulb shaped, and T-shaped seams) through a single configurable unit. The base structure includes standardized mounting features and adjustment mechanisms that work across different seam geometries, eliminating the need for multiple specialized clamp types while maintaining adaptability to various roof configurations
2Adaptability or versatility
If multiple clamp types are used for different seam shapes, then adaptability to various seam types is improved, but manufacturing cost increases
Solution Approach 1:
The clamp assembly uses a universal base structure with standardized components that can be manufactured in high volumes, reducing per-unit costs. By consolidating multiple clamp types into one configurable unit, the manufacturer produces fewer unique part numbers, enabling economies of scale in production while maintaining the ability to adapt to different seam types through simple adjustments or interchangeable attachments
3Reliability
If complex clamping systems are used, then secure mounting is improved, but ease of installation deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The clamp assembly is divided into modular segments including a base structure, clamping arms, and adjustment mechanisms that can be independently assembled and adjusted. This segmentation allows installers to work with smaller, more manageable components during installation while maintaining the structural integrity and security of the complete assembled unit. The modular design enables step-by-step assembly that simplifies the installation process compared to complex monolithic systems
4Reliability
If multiple fasteners are required for each clamp, then mounting security is improved, but installation time increases
Solution Approach 1:
The clamp assembly integrates multiple fastening functions into consolidated fastening mechanisms. Instead of requiring separate fasteners for each clamping action, the design combines securing operations into fewer integrated fastening points where a single fastener performs multiple securing functions simultaneously. This merging of fastening operations maintains mounting security while significantly reducing the total number of fastening steps and installation time
Data Source
AI summary
Disclosed is a seam clamp for securing equipment, such as solar PV panels, to standing roofs. The seam clamp includes an outer clamp member, an outer support member, and an inner clamp member. The inner clamp member and outer clamp member both include a clamping jaw projecting inward toward each other. The inner clamping member movably attached to the outer support member allowing the clamping jaws to engage and secure a standing seam. For ease of assembly, the outer clamp member and outer support member are slideably engaged and can be optionally captively slideably engaged. The seam clamp can be configured to accommodate different standing seam shapes by substituting alternative outer clamp members.