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 but not flat surfaces, and there is a need for a toolless and aesthetically pleasing solution.
Innovation Solution
A system comprising a base element and a support structure with retaining and clamping elements that allow for toolless mounting of solar panels by engaging edges without screws, using complementary fastening members for secure positioning, enabling efficient and rapid installation of multiple panels with minimal space usage.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If mechanical fastening means (screws) are used to mount solar panels, then secure fixing is achieved, but installation time increases and tool-based mounting is required
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts and eliminates mechanical fastening means (screws, bolts) from the mounting system. The support structure uses a clamping mechanism with a clampable element that secures solar panels through friction and geometric interlocking alone, removing the need for separate fastening components and tools.
Solution Approach 2:
The mounting system is designed to be self-sufficient during installation. The clampable element and support structure work together through their own geometric features and friction forces to secure panels without requiring external tools or additional fastening operations.
2Reliability
If solar panels are mounted on pitched roofs, then installation safety is improved, but size limitations apply reducing energy capacity
Solution Approach 1:
The mounting system is designed with universal applicability across different roof types. The base element can be adapted to pitched roofs, flat roofs, and ground mounting through configuration changes, allowing the same fundamental design to achieve large surface area installations on flat surfaces while maintaining safety features.
3Reliability
If traditional mounting systems are used on flat surfaces, then secure mounting is achieved, but installation time and labor requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The support structure is pre-configured with the clampable element and retaining features before installation. During mounting, panels are simply placed onto the pre-positioned support structures, and the clampable element is engaged in a single motion, eliminating the need for sequential fastening operations.
Solution Approach 2:
The mounting system is divided into modular components: base elements, support structures, and clampable elements. Each module can be independently positioned and assembled, allowing parallel installation of multiple panels and reducing overall installation time through modular assembly.
Data Source
AI summary
The invention relates to a system and a method for mounting at least one solar panel on a substantially flat mounting surface. The system comprises thereto a base element, a support structure configured for supporting at least part of at least one solar panel, which is connected to the base element and wherein the support structure comprises a retaining element for retaining at least part of an upper edge of the solar panel and a clamping element configured for clampingly engaging at least part of a lower edge the solar panel.