Strap Solar Panel Mounting for Fast Installation and Wind Uplift
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing solar panel mounting systems are expensive to fabricate and time-consuming to install, requiring heavy and complex setups that do not efficiently address wind resistance and uplift issues.
Innovation Solution
A novel solar panel mounting system utilizing straps and supports that can be easily fabricated on-site or provided as a kit, featuring adjustable attachments and various cross-sectional shapes, reducing the number of attachment points and using straps or cables to transfer loads, thereby minimizing wind resistance and uplift.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If traditional mounting systems (ballast mounts, flush mounts, standing seams mounts, adjustable mounts) are used, then solar panels are firmly attached to the substrate surface, but the systems are heavy, expensive to fabricate, and time-consuming to install
Solution Approach 1:
The mounting system is divided into separate components: straps that attach to the substrate and supports that attach to the solar panels. These segments can be independently installed and adjusted, reducing overall installation complexity and time while maintaining secure attachment.
Solution Approach 2:
The mounting system incorporates adjustable elements that allow for dynamic adaptation to different substrate surfaces and panel configurations. This adjustability enables faster installation by eliminating the need for custom fabrication for each unique mounting scenario.
2Reliability
If traditional mounting systems are used, then solar panels are firmly attached to the substrate surface, but the systems are heavy and expensive to fabricate
Solution Approach 1:
The mounting system uses simple, inexpensive straps and supports that can be easily fabricated from common materials. These components are designed to be cost-effective and simple to manufacture, reducing overall system fabrication costs while providing sufficient durability for the application.
Solution Approach 2:
The system allows for variation in strap and support dimensions, materials, and attachment methods to optimize for different installation scenarios. This flexibility enables use of simpler, cheaper materials and fabrication methods while maintaining adequate attachment reliability.
3Stability of the object's composition
If multiple attachment points are used to firmly secure solar panels, then stability is improved, but the number of parts increases and installation becomes more time-consuming
Solution Approach 1:
Multiple attachment functions are combined into integrated strap and support components. The straps provide both structural support and attachment functionality, while the supports combine mounting and positioning roles, reducing the total number of separate parts needed while maintaining stability.
Data Source
AI summary
A novel solar panel mounting system including a strap and one or more supports, having top flanges, attached to each other. The strap is attached between a first point and a second point on a surface. The support is designed to support a solar panel on this surface. The top flange of the support may be parallel to or at an angle to the surface. The strap may be singular or comprised of two straps one above the other. The strap may be attached to the top flange or the bottom or both. The supports may have any cross sectional shape. The strap may be attached to the support at its end or at a distance from the end; or normal to the support or at an angle to it. The length of the support is greater than the width of the strap.