System and method for attaching panels
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing photovoltaic (PV) panel installation systems lack efficient and secure methods for locking and unlocking PV panels to support structures, particularly for frameless panels, which can lead to instability and difficulties in installation and maintenance.
Innovation Solution
A system utilizing ferromagnetic lock flaps and dovetail latches, combined with a suction cup mechanism, allows for reversible attachment and detachment of PV panels to support beams, enabling secure locking and easy maneuvering of the panels during installation and maintenance.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If traditional mechanical locking methods are used for frameless PV panels, then the panels can be secured to support structures, but the installation and maintenance processes become complex and time-consuming
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces traditional mechanical locking mechanisms with a magnetic field-based locking system. The magnetic field acts on ferromagnetic material embedded in the PV panel frame, providing secure attachment to the support structure without complex mechanical components. This substitution simplifies the installation process while maintaining reliable panel stability.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent utilizes changes in magnetic field parameters (strength, direction, presence/absence) to control the locking and unlocking states. By varying the magnetic field parameters, the system transitions between secured and released states, enabling easy installation and maintenance operations while ensuring panel stability during normal operation.
2Reliability
If traditional mechanical locking methods are used for frameless PV panels, then the panels can be secured to support structures, but the maintenance and removal processes become difficult and time-consuming
Solution Approach 1:
The magnetic field-based system replaces complex mechanical locking mechanisms, allowing maintenance personnel to easily remove panels by simply deactivating the magnetic field. This eliminates the need for disassembling mechanical locks or dealing with complex fastening systems, significantly improving ease of repair while maintaining panel stability during operation.
Solution Approach 2:
Instead of using mechanical forces to lock and require mechanical forces to unlock, the system uses the absence or reversal of magnetic field to release the panel. The inversion principle is applied by using magnetic attraction for locking and magnetic field removal or reversal for unlocking, simplifying the maintenance process.
3Ease of operation
If magnetic field-based locking is used for PV panels, then installation and maintenance become easy, but the glass cover may be damaged during manipulation
Solution Approach 1:
The magnetic field is activated before the panel is fully positioned, creating a holding force that stabilizes the panel during the installation process. This preliminary magnetic action prevents the need for forceful manipulation of the glass cover, reducing damage risk while maintaining ease of operation.
Solution Approach 2:
The magnetic field acts as an intermediary force between the support structure and the panel, providing secure holding without direct mechanical contact with the glass cover. This intermediary mechanism allows easy manipulation and positioning while protecting the glass from damage that would occur with direct mechanical handling.
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
The system provides secure locking and easy unlocking of PV panels, ensuring stability during operation and facilitating efficient installation and maintenance by allowing for easy adjustment and removal of panels without damaging the glass cover.
Implementation Method 1
a ferromagnetic lock flap, a tongue, and a latch. The support beam may include a locking slot having a ferromagnetic lock flap
Implementation Method 2
The magnet may be embedded in a suction cup device, which is designed to lift and maneuver an object with a relatively flat surface, e.g. a glass pane. The suction cup device may, when suction is applied, be attached to glass covering the PV panels
Data Source
Figure 1A
Figure 1B
Figure 2A
AI summary
Systems, apparatuses, and methods are described for locking PV panels to support structures, e.g., support beams. The support beams may be designed and built with corresponding connection elements, e.g., slots and tabs, which may be used to enable locking and unlocking of the PV panels on the support beams. Once in place, a ferromagnetic flap may be put into an engaged position, thereby closing and engaging a panel locking mechanism. The ferromagnetic flap may be lifted by using a magnet. The magnet may be may be embedded in a suction cup device which is designed to lift and maneuver an object with a relatively flat surface, e.g. a glass pane. The suction cup device may, when suction is applied, be attached to glass covering the PV panels, and thus the suction cup device may be used to move the PV panels.