System and method for mounting a solar panel onto a substantially flat mounting surface
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing solar panel mounting systems on flat surfaces lack efficiency and speed, often requiring mechanical fastening and not allowing for large, space-efficient installations due to size limitations on pitched roofs not applying to flat surfaces, and there is a need for a toolless system that can cover large areas effectively.
Innovation Solution
A system comprising an elongated base element and a support structure with a retaining element and clamping element that are mutually displaceable and feature complementary fastening members, allowing for toolless mounting and secure engagement of solar panels without screws, enabling large-scale installations on flat surfaces efficiently.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If traditional mechanical fastening systems are used for mounting solar panels on flat surfaces, then the mounting structure provides secure retention, but the installation process becomes time-consuming and labor-intensive
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces traditional mechanical fastening systems (screws, bolts, clips) with a friction-based retention mechanism. The solar panel is retained through friction between the panel edges and the mounting structure surfaces, eliminating the need for mechanical fasteners and significantly reducing installation time while maintaining secure mounting.
Solution Approach 2:
The mounting structure is designed to automatically retain the solar panel through its geometric configuration and friction principles. The panel's own weight and the friction forces generated during placement create a self-retaining system that does not require additional active fastening operations, making the system self-servicing during installation.
2Reliability
If solar panels are mounted using conventional systems on flat surfaces, then adequate retention is achieved, but the mounting structure becomes complex and requires multiple components
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges multiple traditional mounting components (retention elements, support structures, fastening mechanisms) into a single integrated mounting structure. This unified structure combines the functions of support, retention, and positioning in one component, reducing overall system complexity while maintaining adequate panel retention through friction-based design.
Solution Approach 2:
The mounting structure is designed as a multi-functional component that simultaneously provides support, retention, and positioning functions. The same structural elements that provide mechanical support also create the friction surfaces for panel retention, eliminating the need for separate dedicated retention components and simplifying the overall system.
3Productivity
If friction-based retention is used without mechanical fasteners, then installation becomes faster and simpler, but the mounting security may be compromised
Solution Approach 1:
The patent optimizes the friction parameters of the mounting structure by carefully designing the contact surfaces between the panel and mounting structure. Factors such as surface area, surface roughness, and contact pressure are optimized to generate sufficient friction forces that reliably retain the panel under various operating conditions including wind loads and thermal expansion, while maintaining fast installation.
Data Source
Figure 1
Figure 2a~2b
Figure 2c~2d
AI summary
The invention relates to a system (200) and a method for mounting at least one solar panel (220) on a substantially flat mounting surface. The system (200) comprises thereto a base element (101, 201), a support structure (102, 202) configured for supporting at least part of at least one solar panel, which is connected to the base element (101, 201) and wherein the support structure (102, 202) comprises a retaining element (104, 204) for retaining at least part of an upper edge of the solar panel and a clamping element (103, 203) configured for clampingly engaging at least part of a lower edge the solar panel.