Tilted PV Module Frame for Fast Non-Penetrating Rooftop Mounting
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional photovoltaic module installation techniques for commercial rooftops are time-consuming, costly, and require extensive upfront planning due to the need for numerous auxiliary components and complex logistics, often resulting in errors and increased labor costs, especially when installing non-penetrating, tilted PV modules.
Innovation Solution
A photovoltaic module system featuring a frame that encases the PV laminate to form a unitary structure, allowing for non-penetrating installation at a tilted angle, with a minimal number of additional parts required, and enabling easy assembly and interconnection of modules without the need for rooftop penetration, using a polymeric frame for reduced weight and shipping costs.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Stability of the object's composition
If conventional PV module installation techniques are used with multiple frame members physically attached to the rooftop via bolts, then the PV module mounting is more rigid, but the installation process is time-consuming and permanently damages the rooftop
Solution Approach 1:
The frame is divided into four separate frame members (leading, trailing, first side, second side) that can be assembled around the PV laminate in a modular fashion, allowing for simplified attachment to the rooftop while maintaining structural stability
Solution Approach 2:
The invention extracts the penetration requirement by providing a non-penetrating attachment mechanism where frame members attach to the rooftop surface without requiring bolts driven through the rooftop, thereby avoiding permanent damage and reducing installation time
2Object-affected harmful factors
If PV modules are installed in a non-penetrating manner with auxiliary components, then the rooftop structure is preserved, but a large number of parts are required and logistics become complex
Solution Approach 1:
The frame members are designed to interconnect with each other to form a complete frame structure, merging multiple components into a unified assembly that attaches to the rooftop as a single unit, thereby reducing the number of separate auxiliary components needed
Solution Approach 2:
The frame members are designed with universal attachment features that can be configured for different PV module sizes and rooftop surfaces, eliminating the need for specialized auxiliary components for each installation scenario
3Use of energy by moving object
If PV laminate is tilted relative to the rooftop for optimal sunlight collection, then solar energy collection is maximized, but wind-generated forces increase on flat rooftops
Solution Approach 1:
The frame structure is designed to dynamically respond to wind forces through its geometric configuration and attachment mechanism, allowing the tilted PV laminate to maintain optimal solar collection angles while the frame distributes and mitigates wind-generated forces on the flat rooftop surface
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
This solution simplifies the installation process, reduces labor and upfront planning, minimizes shipping and handling expenses, and ensures efficient, rapid deployment of PV modules on flat surfaces, including commercial rooftops, while maintaining optimal solar energy collection angles.
Implementation Method 1
solar photovoltaic systems (or simply 'photovoltaic systems') employ solar panels made of silicon or other materials (e.g., III-V cells such as GaAs) to convert sunlight into electricity
Data Source
Figure 1A
Figure 1B
Figure 2
AI summary
A photovoltaic (PV) module including a PV device and a frame. The PV device has a PV laminate defining a perimeter and a major plane. The frame is assembled to and encases the laminate perimeter, and includes leading, trailing, and side frame members, and an arm that forms a support face opposite the laminate. The support face is adapted for placement against a horizontal installation surface, to support and orient the laminate in a non-parallel or tilted arrangement. Upon final assembly, the laminate and the frame combine to define a unitary structure. The frame can orient the laminate at an angle in the range of 3°-7° from horizontal, and can be entirely formed of a polymeric material. Optionally, the arm incorporates integral feature(s) that facilitate interconnection with corresponding features of a second, identically formed PV module.