System for mounting tiles
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing solar panel mounting systems are not aesthetically pleasing, lack weatherproofing, are heavy, difficult to install, and pose fire risks, while also hindering solar panel performance due to inadequate ventilation and exposed cables.
Innovation Solution
A lightweight, strong, and aesthetically pleasing system using C-shaped grooves with a spring-lock mechanism, EPDM rubber, and vents for ventilation, allowing hidden cable attachment, made from high-density polypropylene and PVC materials, with fire-resistant components for easy installation and replacement.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If elevated steel structures are used for mounting solar panels, then the solar panels can be mounted over residential rooftops, but the overall weight of the mounting system increases significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The mounting system is divided into modular components: frames with C-shaped grooves, Z-shaped clamps, and reference bars. This segmentation allows the system to be lightweight yet adaptable to different roof configurations without requiring heavy steel structures.
Solution Approach 2:
Instead of mounting solar panels on elevated steel structures above the roof, the invention integrates the mounting system directly into the roof surface using frames that lay flat on the roof, inverting the traditional elevated mounting approach.
2Adaptability or versatility
If traditional mounting systems are used, then solar panels can be installed, but they show as a separate entity and do not match the roof aesthetics
Solution Approach 1:
The mounting frames are designed to blend with the roof surface, merging the solar panel installation with the roof structure itself. The frames lay flat on the roof and can be painted to match, eliminating the visual separation between roof and solar panels.
Solution Approach 2:
The frames serve multiple functions: structural support for solar panels, weatherproofing barrier, ventilation channel, and aesthetic element that matches the roof. This multi-functionality allows the same component to satisfy both installation and aesthetic requirements.
3Use of energy by moving object
If solar panels are mounted over the roof, then energy generation is enabled, but the roof beneath the solar panels is not protected from wind, rain, snow, dust and other external conditions
Solution Approach 1:
The frames are equipped with EPDM rubber weatherproofing membranes that are installed beforehand to protect the roof beneath the solar panels from wind, rain, snow, and dust, preventing weather damage before it can occur.
4Use of energy by moving object
If the roof remains covered by solar panels, then energy generation is maximized, but the temperature beneath the solar panels rises significantly affecting performance
Solution Approach 1:
The frames act as an intermediary structure between the solar panels and the roof, creating a ventilation channel that allows air flow beneath the panels. This intermediary space facilitates heat dissipation and maintains optimal operating temperature for the solar panels.
5Adaptability or versatility
If existing mounting systems are used, then solar panels can be installed, but the system is not leakproof or weatherproof
Solution Approach 1:
The frames are equipped with EPDM rubber weatherproofing membranes that are installed beforehand to protect the roof beneath the solar panels from wind, rain, snow, and dust, preventing weather damage before it can occur.
6Use of energy by moving object
If solar panels are installed using existing systems, then energy generation is enabled, but the corresponding cables and devices remain outside and exposed to external environment
Solution Approach 1:
The frames provide nested protection for cables and power conversion devices, housing them within the frame structure rather than leaving them exposed. This nesting approach protects sensitive electrical components from environmental damage while maintaining system functionality.
7Adaptability or versatility
If existing mounting systems are used, then solar panels can be installed, but the system is difficult to manufacture, install, repair and replace
Solution Approach 1:
The mounting system is divided into modular components: frames with C-shaped grooves, Z-shaped clamps, and reference bars. This segmentation allows for easy manufacturing, installation, repair, and replacement of individual components without affecting the entire system.
Solution Approach 2:
The spring-lock mechanism provides dynamic, tool-free attachment and release capability, allowing solar panels to be easily installed and removed without permanent fastening, thereby simplifying both installation and maintenance operations.
8Adaptability or versatility
If existing mounting systems are used, then solar panels can be installed, but skilled personnel are required for installation and repair
Solution Approach 1:
The spring-lock mechanism provides dynamic, tool-free attachment and release capability, allowing solar panels to be easily installed and removed without permanent fastening, thereby simplifying both installation and maintenance operations.
Solution Approach 2:
The spring-lock mechanism is designed to be self-explanatory and self-operating, requiring no specialized tools or skills. The natural spring action provides clear feedback during installation, enabling DIY installation without skilled personnel.
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 effective weatherproofing, prevents fires, enhances solar panel performance through ventilation, and is easy to manufacture, install, and replace, while maintaining a seamless roof integration and structural stability.
Implementation Method 1
a spring-lock mechanism configured with each of the C-shaped grooves of the at least two frames. The spring-lock mechanism can be adapted to facilitate mounting and locking of the tile assembly in the at least two frames
Implementation Method 2
provides suitable ventilation beneath the solar panel tiles/tiles
Data Source
AI summary
The present disclosure relates to a simple, lightweight, cost-effective, aesthetically pleasing, and strong system for mounting solar panel tiles (or other tiles/panels) over a roof (surface). The system includes frames (footage) parallelly positioned over the surface using reference bars passing through the frames, and bolts/screws to couple the frames to the surface. The frames include C-shaped grooves at both ends. Each groove is configured with a flat spring that is coupled to the grooves using a spring fixing bracket. Further, Z-shaped clamps are coupled at the bottom surface of the tiles to form a tile assembly. The spring is adapted to be pressed upon application of a force while mounting the tile assembly in the frames, which allows one side of the tile assembly, and the Z-shaped clamp on the other side of the tile assembly to be accommodated and locked in the two opposite C-shaped grooves of the frames.