US20170133982A1 - Corner connector for photovoltaic module frame - Google Patents
Corner connector for photovoltaic module frame Download PDFInfo
- Publication number
- US20170133982A1 US20170133982A1 US14/935,756 US201514935756A US2017133982A1 US 20170133982 A1 US20170133982 A1 US 20170133982A1 US 201514935756 A US201514935756 A US 201514935756A US 2017133982 A1 US2017133982 A1 US 2017133982A1
- Authority
- US
- United States
- Prior art keywords
- members
- photovoltaic modules
- frame
- corner
- photovoltaic
- Prior art date
- Legal status (The legal status is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the status listed.)
- Abandoned
Links
- 238000004146 energy storage Methods 0.000 claims abstract description 4
- 229910000831 Steel Inorganic materials 0.000 claims description 4
- 239000010959 steel Substances 0.000 claims description 4
- 239000004020 conductor Substances 0.000 claims description 3
- 238000012806 monitoring device Methods 0.000 claims 2
- 239000000463 material Substances 0.000 description 5
- 229920000642 polymer Polymers 0.000 description 3
- 230000000717 retained effect Effects 0.000 description 3
- 238000004873 anchoring Methods 0.000 description 2
- 230000000295 complement effect Effects 0.000 description 2
- 238000001816 cooling Methods 0.000 description 2
- 239000011521 glass Substances 0.000 description 2
- 238000009434 installation Methods 0.000 description 2
- 229910052751 metal Inorganic materials 0.000 description 2
- 239000002184 metal Substances 0.000 description 2
- 238000000034 method Methods 0.000 description 2
- 238000012986 modification Methods 0.000 description 2
- 230000004048 modification Effects 0.000 description 2
- 239000000758 substrate Substances 0.000 description 2
- MARUHZGHZWCEQU-UHFFFAOYSA-N 5-phenyl-2h-tetrazole Chemical compound C1=CC=CC=C1C1=NNN=N1 MARUHZGHZWCEQU-UHFFFAOYSA-N 0.000 description 1
- 229910000838 Al alloy Inorganic materials 0.000 description 1
- 239000000853 adhesive Substances 0.000 description 1
- 230000001070 adhesive effect Effects 0.000 description 1
- 229910045601 alloy Inorganic materials 0.000 description 1
- 239000000956 alloy Substances 0.000 description 1
- 230000004075 alteration Effects 0.000 description 1
- 229910052782 aluminium Inorganic materials 0.000 description 1
- XAGFODPZIPBFFR-UHFFFAOYSA-N aluminium Chemical compound [Al] XAGFODPZIPBFFR-UHFFFAOYSA-N 0.000 description 1
- 229910021417 amorphous silicon Inorganic materials 0.000 description 1
- 230000009286 beneficial effect Effects 0.000 description 1
- DVRDHUBQLOKMHZ-UHFFFAOYSA-N chalcopyrite Chemical compound [S-2].[S-2].[Fe+2].[Cu+2] DVRDHUBQLOKMHZ-UHFFFAOYSA-N 0.000 description 1
- 229910052951 chalcopyrite Inorganic materials 0.000 description 1
- 239000002131 composite material Substances 0.000 description 1
- 229910021419 crystalline silicon Inorganic materials 0.000 description 1
- 239000005038 ethylene vinyl acetate Substances 0.000 description 1
- 230000001788 irregular Effects 0.000 description 1
- 239000007769 metal material Substances 0.000 description 1
- 239000005022 packaging material Substances 0.000 description 1
- 230000002093 peripheral effect Effects 0.000 description 1
- 239000004033 plastic Substances 0.000 description 1
- 229920003023 plastic Polymers 0.000 description 1
- 239000000843 powder Substances 0.000 description 1
- 230000001737 promoting effect Effects 0.000 description 1
- 230000001681 protective effect Effects 0.000 description 1
- 238000005476 soldering Methods 0.000 description 1
- 229910001220 stainless steel Inorganic materials 0.000 description 1
- 239000000126 substance Substances 0.000 description 1
- 239000012780 transparent material Substances 0.000 description 1
- XLYOFNOQVPJJNP-UHFFFAOYSA-N water Substances O XLYOFNOQVPJJNP-UHFFFAOYSA-N 0.000 description 1
- 238000003466 welding Methods 0.000 description 1
Images
Classifications
-
- H—ELECTRICITY
- H02—GENERATION; CONVERSION OR DISTRIBUTION OF ELECTRIC POWER
- H02S—GENERATION OF ELECTRIC POWER BY CONVERSION OF INFRARED RADIATION, VISIBLE LIGHT OR ULTRAVIOLET LIGHT, e.g. USING PHOTOVOLTAIC [PV] MODULES
- H02S40/00—Components or accessories in combination with PV modules, not provided for in groups H02S10/00 - H02S30/00
- H02S40/30—Electrical components
- H02S40/36—Electrical components characterised by special electrical interconnection means between two or more PV modules, e.g. electrical module-to-module connection
-
- F—MECHANICAL ENGINEERING; LIGHTING; HEATING; WEAPONS; BLASTING
- F24—HEATING; RANGES; VENTILATING
- F24S—SOLAR HEAT COLLECTORS; SOLAR HEAT SYSTEMS
- F24S25/00—Arrangement of stationary mountings or supports for solar heat collector modules
- F24S25/20—Peripheral frames for modules
-
- H—ELECTRICITY
- H02—GENERATION; CONVERSION OR DISTRIBUTION OF ELECTRIC POWER
- H02S—GENERATION OF ELECTRIC POWER BY CONVERSION OF INFRARED RADIATION, VISIBLE LIGHT OR ULTRAVIOLET LIGHT, e.g. USING PHOTOVOLTAIC [PV] MODULES
- H02S30/00—Structural details of PV modules other than those related to light conversion
- H02S30/10—Frame structures
-
- H—ELECTRICITY
- H02—GENERATION; CONVERSION OR DISTRIBUTION OF ELECTRIC POWER
- H02S—GENERATION OF ELECTRIC POWER BY CONVERSION OF INFRARED RADIATION, VISIBLE LIGHT OR ULTRAVIOLET LIGHT, e.g. USING PHOTOVOLTAIC [PV] MODULES
- H02S40/00—Components or accessories in combination with PV modules, not provided for in groups H02S10/00 - H02S30/00
- H02S40/30—Electrical components
- H02S40/32—Electrical components comprising DC/AC inverter means associated with the PV module itself, e.g. AC modules
-
- H—ELECTRICITY
- H02—GENERATION; CONVERSION OR DISTRIBUTION OF ELECTRIC POWER
- H02S—GENERATION OF ELECTRIC POWER BY CONVERSION OF INFRARED RADIATION, VISIBLE LIGHT OR ULTRAVIOLET LIGHT, e.g. USING PHOTOVOLTAIC [PV] MODULES
- H02S40/00—Components or accessories in combination with PV modules, not provided for in groups H02S10/00 - H02S30/00
- H02S40/30—Electrical components
- H02S40/34—Electrical components comprising specially adapted electrical connection means to be structurally associated with the PV module, e.g. junction boxes
-
- F—MECHANICAL ENGINEERING; LIGHTING; HEATING; WEAPONS; BLASTING
- F24—HEATING; RANGES; VENTILATING
- F24S—SOLAR HEAT COLLECTORS; SOLAR HEAT SYSTEMS
- F24S25/00—Arrangement of stationary mountings or supports for solar heat collector modules
- F24S25/60—Fixation means, e.g. fasteners, specially adapted for supporting solar heat collector modules
- F24S2025/6007—Fixation means, e.g. fasteners, specially adapted for supporting solar heat collector modules by using form-fitting connection means, e.g. tongue and groove
-
- Y—GENERAL TAGGING OF NEW TECHNOLOGICAL DEVELOPMENTS; GENERAL TAGGING OF CROSS-SECTIONAL TECHNOLOGIES SPANNING OVER SEVERAL SECTIONS OF THE IPC; TECHNICAL SUBJECTS COVERED BY FORMER USPC CROSS-REFERENCE ART COLLECTIONS [XRACs] AND DIGESTS
- Y02—TECHNOLOGIES OR APPLICATIONS FOR MITIGATION OR ADAPTATION AGAINST CLIMATE CHANGE
- Y02B—CLIMATE CHANGE MITIGATION TECHNOLOGIES RELATED TO BUILDINGS, e.g. HOUSING, HOUSE APPLIANCES OR RELATED END-USER APPLICATIONS
- Y02B10/00—Integration of renewable energy sources in buildings
- Y02B10/10—Photovoltaic [PV]
-
- Y—GENERAL TAGGING OF NEW TECHNOLOGICAL DEVELOPMENTS; GENERAL TAGGING OF CROSS-SECTIONAL TECHNOLOGIES SPANNING OVER SEVERAL SECTIONS OF THE IPC; TECHNICAL SUBJECTS COVERED BY FORMER USPC CROSS-REFERENCE ART COLLECTIONS [XRACs] AND DIGESTS
- Y02—TECHNOLOGIES OR APPLICATIONS FOR MITIGATION OR ADAPTATION AGAINST CLIMATE CHANGE
- Y02B—CLIMATE CHANGE MITIGATION TECHNOLOGIES RELATED TO BUILDINGS, e.g. HOUSING, HOUSE APPLIANCES OR RELATED END-USER APPLICATIONS
- Y02B10/00—Integration of renewable energy sources in buildings
- Y02B10/20—Solar thermal
-
- Y—GENERAL TAGGING OF NEW TECHNOLOGICAL DEVELOPMENTS; GENERAL TAGGING OF CROSS-SECTIONAL TECHNOLOGIES SPANNING OVER SEVERAL SECTIONS OF THE IPC; TECHNICAL SUBJECTS COVERED BY FORMER USPC CROSS-REFERENCE ART COLLECTIONS [XRACs] AND DIGESTS
- Y02—TECHNOLOGIES OR APPLICATIONS FOR MITIGATION OR ADAPTATION AGAINST CLIMATE CHANGE
- Y02E—REDUCTION OF GREENHOUSE GAS [GHG] EMISSIONS, RELATED TO ENERGY GENERATION, TRANSMISSION OR DISTRIBUTION
- Y02E10/00—Energy generation through renewable energy sources
- Y02E10/40—Solar thermal energy, e.g. solar towers
- Y02E10/47—Mountings or tracking
-
- Y—GENERAL TAGGING OF NEW TECHNOLOGICAL DEVELOPMENTS; GENERAL TAGGING OF CROSS-SECTIONAL TECHNOLOGIES SPANNING OVER SEVERAL SECTIONS OF THE IPC; TECHNICAL SUBJECTS COVERED BY FORMER USPC CROSS-REFERENCE ART COLLECTIONS [XRACs] AND DIGESTS
- Y02—TECHNOLOGIES OR APPLICATIONS FOR MITIGATION OR ADAPTATION AGAINST CLIMATE CHANGE
- Y02E—REDUCTION OF GREENHOUSE GAS [GHG] EMISSIONS, RELATED TO ENERGY GENERATION, TRANSMISSION OR DISTRIBUTION
- Y02E10/00—Energy generation through renewable energy sources
- Y02E10/50—Photovoltaic [PV] energy
Definitions
- the present disclosure relates generally to photovoltaic (PV) modules (conventional or frame-less), and, in particular, to corner connection members for PV modules.
- PV photovoltaic
- Photovoltaic module refers to a packaged, interconnected assembly that includes a PV panel and a frame.
- PV panels typically have a laminate configuration with a photoelectrically active layer sandwiched between a front substrate and a rear substrate, which typically comprise glass.
- Frames are commonly used to provide structural rigidity and protection for the panels.
- Frames typically comprise a plurality of longitudinal members, e.g., bars or beams, that are connected together to form a structure that generally corresponds to the peripheral shape of the solar cell assembly.
- the frame members are typically attached to each other by corner connectors, often referred to as corner keys.
- a photovoltaic module in one embodiment, includes a planar solar collection assembly defining a planar front side surface and a planar backside surface.
- Four frame members are arranged to form a rectangular frame onto which the solar collection assembly is mounted.
- the rectangular frame has four corners. Each of the four corners is defined by a pair of the frame members.
- Four corner members connect the frame members to each other at each of the four corners of the frame.
- At least one of the corner members includes a through-hole that extends through the at least one corner member perpendicularly with respect to the planar front side and backside surfaces.
- a stack of photovoltaic modules includes a plurality of photovoltaic modules, each of the photovoltaic modules including a planar solar collection assembly defining a planar front side surface and a planar backside surface.
- Four frame members are arranged to form a rectangular frame onto which the solar collection assembly is mounted.
- the rectangular frame has four corners, each of the four corners being defined by a pair of the frame members.
- Four corner members connect the frame members to each other at each of the four corners of the frame.
- At least one of the corner members of each of the photovoltaic modules is configured as a connection member having a through-hole that extends through the connection member perpendicularly with respect to the planar front side and backside surfaces.
- the photovoltaic modules are stacked on top of one another such that the connection members having the through-holes are arranged on top of each other with the through-holes aligned to form a continuous passage that extends through the stack.
- a connecting rod, or threaded rod, that is sized and shaped complementarily with respect to the continuous passage is configured to be extended through the continuous passage to connect and retain the photovoltaic modules in a stacked configuration.
- an array of photovoltaic modules includes a plurality of photovoltaic modules, each of the photovoltaic modules including a planar solar collection assembly defining a planar front side surface and a planar backside surface, and four frame members arranged to form a rectangular frame onto which the solar collection assembly is mounted, the rectangular frame having four corners, each of the four corners being defined by a pair of the frame members.
- Four corner members connect the frame members to each other at each of the four corners of the frame.
- At least one of the corner members of each of the photovoltaic modules is configured as a connection member having a through-hole that extends through the connection member perpendicularly with respect to the planar front side and backside surfaces.
- the photovoltaic modules are arranged in an arrayed configuration, and the connection members of each of the photovoltaic modules are configured to be secured to the connection members of adjacent photovoltaic modules to retain the photovoltaic modules in the arrayed configuration.
- FIG. 1 is a schematic depiction of a photovoltaic module in accordance with the present disclosing having a frame including corner members having thru-passages.
- FIG. 2 is perspective view of a frame of a photovoltaic module, such as the photovoltaic module of FIG. 1 .
- FIG. 3 is a schematic, fragmentary, cross-sectional view showing a corner member of a photovoltaic module frame with an insert component inserted into the thru-passage of the corner member.
- FIG. 4 is a schematic, fragmentary, cross-sectional view showing an embodiment of a corner member and insert component configuration for connecting two PV modules together side-by-side.
- FIG. 5 is a schematic, fragmentary, cross-sectional view showing another embodiment of a corner member and insert component configuration for connecting two PV modules together side-by-side.
- FIG. 6 is a schematic, fragmentary, cross-sectional view showing an insert component includes an electronic device.
- FIG. 7 is a schematic, fragmentary, cross-sectional view showing yet another embodiment of a corner member and insert component configuration for connecting two PV modules together side-by-side.
- FIG. 8 is a schematic depiction of corner members being used to facilitate stacking a plurality of photovoltaic modules.
- the corner connection members for the PV frame described herein have thru-passages that enable the use of simple inserts to be easily and quickly installed into the passages of the corner members to perform and facilitate a variety of functions.
- the passages through the corner members may be configured to receive longitudinal inserts which can be extended through the corner members to attach or anchor the PV module to a mounting surface, such as a roof of a building.
- An elongated inserts can be used to raise or elevate PV modules from a mounting surface to allow air circulation for cooling of solar cells and thereby improve efficiency and/or reliability of solar cells.
- Such inserts may be also be configured to provide a ground connection for the solar cells.
- Corner members and inserts can be configured to facilitate the connection of PV modules which are arranged side-by-side, e.g., in an arrayed configuration. Corner members and corresponding inserts may be configured to connect adjacent PV modules mechanically, electrically, or both mechanically and electrically. In addition, the configuration of the corner members enables a plurality of PV modules to be easily retained in a stacked configuration.
- FIG. 1 depicts an embodiment of PV module 10 having corner connection members 24 in accordance with the present disclosure.
- the PV module 10 includes a solar collection assembly 12 , referred to herein as a PV panel 12 attached to a frame 14 .
- the PV panel 12 includes a planar top surface and bottom surfaces which are surrounded by edges (not labeled).
- the edges of the PV panel 12 define a rectangular shape although, in other embodiments, the PV panel 12 may have any suitable shape including, for example, square, pentagonal, hexagonal, and the like.
- the PV panel 12 may have a laminate structure comprising a photoelectrically active layer sandwiched between a front side layer (typically glass) and a back side layer or layers.
- the active layer is formed by at least one solar cell 20 .
- the solar cells 20 may be formed of any one of a crystalline silicon, amorphous silicon, cadmium telluride, chalcopyrite or other suitable material.
- the solar cells may be embedded in a transparent material which may be a polymer such as ethylene-vinyl acetate (EVA).
- EVA ethylene-vinyl acetate
- the frame 14 defines a solar collection area 11 where the solar panel 12 is mounted and is configured to impart at least some structural rigidity to this area.
- the frame comprises a plurality of frame members 16 , 18 in the form of elongate bars or beams.
- Suitable materials for frame members 16 , 18 may include aluminum, aluminum alloys, steels, stainless steels, alloys, polymers, reinforced polymer composites and/or any other suitable relatively lightweight and durable substance. Materials can be further treated, such as, for example, painted, galvanized, powder coated, anodized and/or any other suitable technique for improving form and/or function of frame 10 .
- Frame members can be provided in varying lengths depending on the desired size and shape of the module.
- the frame 14 has a rectangular shape with two longer frame members 16 forming the long sides of the rectangle and two shorter frame 18 members forming the short sides of the rectangle.
- the inside portions of each frame member may be provided with a slot 13 ( FIG. 2 ) in which the edges of the PV panel 12 are received. When the frame members are secure together, the PV panel is at least partially retained in the slot 13 .
- the frame 14 includes a plurality of corners.
- corner when used in connection with a PV frame, refers to the locations with regard to the PV frame 12 at which at least two frame members 16 , 18 are joined or connected to each other.
- the number of corners depends at least partially on the number of frame members and the shape of the PV panel 12 that is to be mounted to the frame.
- the frame 14 includes four corners.
- the frame members 16 , 18 are joined at each corner by a corner member 24 , also referred to as a corner connector or corner key.
- the corner members 24 include a main body 28 and two frame attachment portions 30 .
- the main body 28 forms the corner of the solar module 10 .
- the frame attachment portions 30 each extend from main body 28 and are configured to be secured to an end of one of the frame members 16 , 18 .
- the frame attachment portions 30 may be attached to the frame members in any suitable manner.
- the frame members have hollow sections at least at the ends in which the frame attachment portions 30 are received as depicted in FIG. 3 .
- the connection between the frame attachment portions 30 and the frame members 16 , 18 may be a press fit connection facilitated by an adhesive although any suitable connection method may be used, such as welding, soldering, and the like.
- the main body 28 of the corner member 24 includes a top surface 32 and a bottom surface 34 .
- the main body 28 of the corner member 24 defines a thru-passage 26 that extends through the main body 28 in a direction that is generally perpendicular to planar solar collection area defined by the frame and to the planar front and backside surfaces of the PV panel 12 when the PV panel is secured to the frame in the solar collection area.
- the thru-passage 26 extends through openings defined in the upper and lower surfaces 32 , 34 .
- the passage has a substantially uniform cross-sectional shape between the upper and lower openings in the main body.
- variations in the cross-sectional shape of the passage may be used for various purposes, such as to provide, locking, positioning and/or connection features (explained in more detail below).
- the passage may have any suitable shape, including regular shapes, such as square, rectangular, round, polygonal, and the like, as well as irregular shapes.
- Insert components 36 which can be used in a number of different ways to facilitate the mounting and assembly of PV modules.
- Insert components 36 generally comprise a longitudinal member, such as threaded rod or bar, having a cross-sectional shape that is complementary to the cross-sectional shape of the passage 26 .
- the insert component 36 may be formed of a strong, rigid material, such as metal and/or hard plastic which may be provided in various lengths depending on its use.
- the insert component may also be configured to support electrical conductors as well as electrical devices for connection to the electrical system in PV modules.
- FIG. 3 depicts a simplified example of one configuration of a corner member 24 and corresponding insert component 36 for a PV module 10 .
- the insert component 36 is configured to serve as an attachment/anchoring structure for the PV module.
- the insert component 36 comprises a connecting pin or rod formed of metal, such as steel, although any suitable material may be used.
- the lower end of the connecting pin 36 is configured to be secured to a mounting surface 38 , such as a roof of a building, a ground mount- or carport structure or a structure on a flat rood as well as a structure on floating water.
- the upper end of the connecting pin 36 is configured to be retained within the passage 26 in the corner member.
- the connecting pin 36 may be configured to be extended through the passage 26 in the corner member 24 either from above or below and may be secured to the mounting surface 38 and to the corner member 24 in any suitable manner.
- the connecting pin 36 is configured to be inserted into the passage 26 through the upper surface 32 as depicted in FIG. 3 .
- the pin 36 may be configured to slide through the passage so it can be easily installed by “dropping” it into the passage.
- the outer surface of the connecting pin 36 and the surfaces and interior walls of the corner member that define the passage may be configured to enable a locking connection between the corner member and the pin.
- the upper end of the pin may include a widened head portion which engages the upper surface of the corner member to prevent movement of the corner member 24 and solar module in an upward direction with respect to the pin 36 .
- a stop may be provided or installed on the pin for engaging the lower surface of the corner member 24 to prevent downward movement of the corner member 24 and PV module with respect to the pin 36 .
- the portion 40 of the connecting pin 36 extending between the bottom surface 34 of the corner member 24 and the attachment/fastening structure at the lower end of the connecting pin 36 may be provided in various lengths depending on the desired mounting configuration of the PV module.
- the pin may be provided at a length that is configured to space the PV module a predetermined distance from the mounting surface in order to allow air circulation under the PV module to facilitate cooling of PV cells of the PV panel.
- the connecting pin 36 may be configured to provide other functionality for the PV module.
- the connecting pin 36 is additionally configured to provide a grounded connection to the PV module 10 .
- the pin 36 is formed of a conductive metal material, such as steel.
- the connecting pin 36 may be provided with dedicated connection structures (not shown) to facilitate electrical connections to ground and/or to the PV module.
- the connecting pin may be used provide ground to the frame as well as to the PV panel.
- the corner member may include connectors 40 ( FIG. 4 ) and conductors 42 ( FIG. 4 ) to facilitate a reliable electrical connection to the pin 36 .
- FIGS. 4, 5 and 7 depict corner members 24 and insert components 36 that are configured to enable PV modules 10 to be attached to each other in a side-by-side, or arrayed, configuration.
- corner members 24 from two or more adjacent PV modules 10 are positioned side-by-side, or corner-to-corner, and an insert component 36 comprising a corresponding number of pins 36 is installed in the corner members 24 , as depicted in FIG. 4 .
- the insert component has two pins 36 a , 36 b.
- a cross-member 37 extends between two pins 36 a , 36 b to secure the pins together and thereby mechanically connect the one PV module to the other PV module.
- the pins 36 a , 36 b may be installed with the cross-member 37 positioned above or below the PV modules 10 .
- the insert component of FIG. 4 may be configured to serve as part of an attachment/anchoring structure for the PV modules as well as providing a ground connection for the PV modules, in the same manner as the insert component 36 of FIG. 3 .
- FIG. 5 depicts another embodiment of a corner member 24 and insert component 36 combination that may be used to secure PV modules together in a side-by-side, or arrayed, configuration.
- the corner members 24 a , 24 b are configured so that the thru-passages 36 of the corner members can be aligned to form a continuous passage through both corner members 24 a , 24 b .
- the aligned passages 36 enable a single connection pin 36 to be extended through both corner members to secure the PV modules 10 together.
- the corner members 24 a , 24 b are provided with lateral extensions 44 a , 44 b through which the passages 36 are defined. The lateral extensions allow the passages to be offset from the frame body so as to provide clearance for the connection pin.
- the first corner member 24 a includes a lateral extension 44 a in an upper position with respect to the main body 28
- the second corner member 24 b includes a lateral extension 24 b in a lower position with respect to the main body 28 .
- the upper and lower positioning of the adjacent lateral extensions 44 a , 44 b enables the lateral extensions to overlap each other while permitting the corner members 24 a , 24 b to remain substantially aligned with each other.
- the corner members 24 a , 24 b may be configured to have multiple lateral extensions that are configured to be interleaved to form a hinge-like configuration as depicted in FIG.
- the connecting pin used in the embodiment of FIGS. 5 and 7 may be extended to secure the PV modules to a mounting surface 38 , such as a roof, as well as being configured to provide a ground connection to the PV modules.
- insert components of the present disclosure may be configured to provide electrical connections to the PV modules in addition to, or as an alternative to, the mechanical connections described above.
- insert components 36 may be provided with electrical connectors 40 which are configured to establish electrical connections with complementarily configured connectors 46 provided in the corner member 24 when the insert component 36 is installed in the passage 26 of the corner member 24 .
- the electrical connectors 46 in the corner member 24 in turn are connected to the wiring of the PV panel 12 , e.g., via junction box 22 ( FIG. 1 ) or directly to the panel 12 .
- the insert components 36 can therefore be used to establish electrical connections between PV modules, as depicted in FIGS. 4, 5 and 7 , and between a PV module and an external electrical system ( FIG. 6 ) by installing appropriately configured insert components 36 into the corner members 24 .
- insert components 36 may also include electronic devices 48 which may be electrically connected to the PV module 10 via the electrical connectors 40 , 46 of the insert component and corner member 24 .
- the electronic device 48 may comprise a microinverter for converting the direct current (DC) output of the solar module into an alternating current (AC) which enables the power generated by the PV module to be fed into the electrical grid.
- the electronic device 48 may also comprise an energy storage device which can be used to store the energy output by the PV module.
- the electronic device 48 might further comprise a remote disconnect for rapid shutdown of the equipment in case of an emergency.
- different types of electrical connections and electronic devices may be utilized in the insert component and corner members as needed depending on the application.
- PV frames 14 having corner members 24 with thru-passages as described herein also enable a plurality of PV modules to be easily arranged and secured in a stacked configuration.
- a plurality of PV modules 14 having the same configuration can be stacked one on top of the other.
- At least one corner member of each PV module (which is located in the same position on each module) includes a thru-passage 26 as described above. Any number from one to all of the corners may be provided with corner members 24 having thru-passages 26 .
- the passages 36 in the corner members 24 align to form a continuous passage that extends through all of the stacked corner members 24 as depicted in FIG. 8 .
- a long connecting rod 36 may then be extended through the continuous passage 26 to secure the PM modules 14 in the stacked configuration.
- the plurality of PV modules 14 can be easily stored and transported as a unit while occupying a minimal amount of space.
- the connecting rod 36 can be secured to protective panels/pads 50 positioned at one or both ends of the stack if desired (although not necessarily) or to a pallet to facilitate transport.
- a PV module stack can be easily transported to an installation site and unstacked by simply removing the connecting rod(s).
- the connecting rod(s) 36 can then be used as a grounding rod for the PV module installation. Depending on the ground conditions it is possible to interconnect a plurality of grounding rods to form a longer rod to enable grounding.
- the corner members 24 may be configured to facilitate alignment of the PV modules when in the stacked configuration so that the passages in the corner members are also aligned.
- the corner members 24 may be provided with upper and lower surfaces 32 , 34 that are provided with complementary contours, offsets, and the like, as depicted in FIG. 8 .
- the upper and lower surfaces 32 , 34 can be used to guide and position the corner members 24 when stacked on top of each other to ensure a proper alignment of the thru-passages 26 .
Landscapes
- Engineering & Computer Science (AREA)
- Physics & Mathematics (AREA)
- Life Sciences & Earth Sciences (AREA)
- Sustainable Development (AREA)
- Sustainable Energy (AREA)
- Thermal Sciences (AREA)
- Chemical & Material Sciences (AREA)
- Combustion & Propulsion (AREA)
- Mechanical Engineering (AREA)
- General Engineering & Computer Science (AREA)
- Photovoltaic Devices (AREA)
Abstract
Description
- The present disclosure relates generally to photovoltaic (PV) modules (conventional or frame-less), and, in particular, to corner connection members for PV modules.
- Photovoltaic module (sometimes referred to as a PV module, solar panel, solar module, or photovoltaic panel) refers to a packaged, interconnected assembly that includes a PV panel and a frame. PV panels typically have a laminate configuration with a photoelectrically active layer sandwiched between a front substrate and a rear substrate, which typically comprise glass. Frames are commonly used to provide structural rigidity and protection for the panels. Frames typically comprise a plurality of longitudinal members, e.g., bars or beams, that are connected together to form a structure that generally corresponds to the peripheral shape of the solar cell assembly. The frame members are typically attached to each other by corner connectors, often referred to as corner keys.
- When framed PV modules are installed at locations, the frames of the modules are typically attached to a support structure. The attachment of PV module frames to the support structure and to each other often requires the use of many additional parts and can require a substantial amount of labor. In addition, additional wiring is often required for electrical connections to external electrical systems and to ground via the support structure. In addition, assembled PV modules can be difficult to safely store and transport due to the risk of damaging the PV panels. Innovations that can reduce the amount of parts and labor required to install PV modules and that facilitate the safe storage and transport of PV modules would be beneficial.
- In one embodiment, a photovoltaic module includes a planar solar collection assembly defining a planar front side surface and a planar backside surface. Four frame members are arranged to form a rectangular frame onto which the solar collection assembly is mounted. The rectangular frame has four corners. Each of the four corners is defined by a pair of the frame members. Four corner members connect the frame members to each other at each of the four corners of the frame. At least one of the corner members includes a through-hole that extends through the at least one corner member perpendicularly with respect to the planar front side and backside surfaces.
- In another embodiment, a stack of photovoltaic modules includes a plurality of photovoltaic modules, each of the photovoltaic modules including a planar solar collection assembly defining a planar front side surface and a planar backside surface. Four frame members are arranged to form a rectangular frame onto which the solar collection assembly is mounted. The rectangular frame has four corners, each of the four corners being defined by a pair of the frame members. Four corner members connect the frame members to each other at each of the four corners of the frame. At least one of the corner members of each of the photovoltaic modules is configured as a connection member having a through-hole that extends through the connection member perpendicularly with respect to the planar front side and backside surfaces. The photovoltaic modules are stacked on top of one another such that the connection members having the through-holes are arranged on top of each other with the through-holes aligned to form a continuous passage that extends through the stack. A connecting rod, or threaded rod, that is sized and shaped complementarily with respect to the continuous passage is configured to be extended through the continuous passage to connect and retain the photovoltaic modules in a stacked configuration.
- In yet another embodiment, an array of photovoltaic modules includes a plurality of photovoltaic modules, each of the photovoltaic modules including a planar solar collection assembly defining a planar front side surface and a planar backside surface, and four frame members arranged to form a rectangular frame onto which the solar collection assembly is mounted, the rectangular frame having four corners, each of the four corners being defined by a pair of the frame members. Four corner members connect the frame members to each other at each of the four corners of the frame. At least one of the corner members of each of the photovoltaic modules is configured as a connection member having a through-hole that extends through the connection member perpendicularly with respect to the planar front side and backside surfaces. The photovoltaic modules are arranged in an arrayed configuration, and the connection members of each of the photovoltaic modules are configured to be secured to the connection members of adjacent photovoltaic modules to retain the photovoltaic modules in the arrayed configuration.
-
FIG. 1 is a schematic depiction of a photovoltaic module in accordance with the present disclosing having a frame including corner members having thru-passages. -
FIG. 2 is perspective view of a frame of a photovoltaic module, such as the photovoltaic module ofFIG. 1 . -
FIG. 3 is a schematic, fragmentary, cross-sectional view showing a corner member of a photovoltaic module frame with an insert component inserted into the thru-passage of the corner member. -
FIG. 4 is a schematic, fragmentary, cross-sectional view showing an embodiment of a corner member and insert component configuration for connecting two PV modules together side-by-side. -
FIG. 5 is a schematic, fragmentary, cross-sectional view showing another embodiment of a corner member and insert component configuration for connecting two PV modules together side-by-side. -
FIG. 6 is a schematic, fragmentary, cross-sectional view showing an insert component includes an electronic device. -
FIG. 7 is a schematic, fragmentary, cross-sectional view showing yet another embodiment of a corner member and insert component configuration for connecting two PV modules together side-by-side. -
FIG. 8 is a schematic depiction of corner members being used to facilitate stacking a plurality of photovoltaic modules. - For the purposes of promoting an understanding of the principles of the disclosure, reference will now be made to the embodiments illustrated in the drawings and described in the following written specification. It is understood that no limitation to the scope of the disclosure is thereby intended. It is further understood that the present disclosure includes any alterations and modifications to the illustrated embodiments and includes further applications of the principles of the disclosure as would normally occur to a person of ordinary skill in the art to which this disclosure pertains.
- The corner connection members for the PV frame described herein have thru-passages that enable the use of simple inserts to be easily and quickly installed into the passages of the corner members to perform and facilitate a variety of functions. As discussed below, the passages through the corner members may be configured to receive longitudinal inserts which can be extended through the corner members to attach or anchor the PV module to a mounting surface, such as a roof of a building. An elongated inserts can be used to raise or elevate PV modules from a mounting surface to allow air circulation for cooling of solar cells and thereby improve efficiency and/or reliability of solar cells. Such inserts may be also be configured to provide a ground connection for the solar cells. Corner members and inserts can be configured to facilitate the connection of PV modules which are arranged side-by-side, e.g., in an arrayed configuration. Corner members and corresponding inserts may be configured to connect adjacent PV modules mechanically, electrically, or both mechanically and electrically. In addition, the configuration of the corner members enables a plurality of PV modules to be easily retained in a stacked configuration.
-
FIG. 1 depicts an embodiment ofPV module 10 havingcorner connection members 24 in accordance with the present disclosure. As depicted, thePV module 10 includes asolar collection assembly 12, referred to herein as aPV panel 12 attached to aframe 14. ThePV panel 12 includes a planar top surface and bottom surfaces which are surrounded by edges (not labeled). In the exemplary embodiment, the edges of thePV panel 12 define a rectangular shape although, in other embodiments, thePV panel 12 may have any suitable shape including, for example, square, pentagonal, hexagonal, and the like. ThePV panel 12 may have a laminate structure comprising a photoelectrically active layer sandwiched between a front side layer (typically glass) and a back side layer or layers. The active layer is formed by at least onesolar cell 20. Thesolar cells 20 may be formed of any one of a crystalline silicon, amorphous silicon, cadmium telluride, chalcopyrite or other suitable material. The solar cells may be embedded in a transparent material which may be a polymer such as ethylene-vinyl acetate (EVA). The solar cells are interconnected by wiring which is run to ajunction box 22. - The
frame 14 defines asolar collection area 11 where thesolar panel 12 is mounted and is configured to impart at least some structural rigidity to this area. The frame comprises a plurality offrame members frame members frame 10. Frame members can be provided in varying lengths depending on the desired size and shape of the module. - In the embodiment of
FIG. 1 , theframe 14 has a rectangular shape with twolonger frame members 16 forming the long sides of the rectangle and twoshorter frame 18 members forming the short sides of the rectangle. The inside portions of each frame member may be provided with a slot 13 (FIG. 2 ) in which the edges of thePV panel 12 are received. When the frame members are secure together, the PV panel is at least partially retained in theslot 13. - The
frame 14 includes a plurality of corners. As used herein, the term “corner”, when used in connection with a PV frame, refers to the locations with regard to thePV frame 12 at which at least twoframe members PV panel 12 that is to be mounted to the frame. In the embodiment ofFIGS. 1 and 2 , theframe 14 includes four corners. - The
frame members corner member 24, also referred to as a corner connector or corner key. Thecorner members 24 include amain body 28 and twoframe attachment portions 30. Themain body 28 forms the corner of thesolar module 10. Theframe attachment portions 30 each extend frommain body 28 and are configured to be secured to an end of one of theframe members frame attachment portions 30 may be attached to the frame members in any suitable manner. In one embodiment, the frame members have hollow sections at least at the ends in which theframe attachment portions 30 are received as depicted inFIG. 3 . The connection between theframe attachment portions 30 and theframe members - The
main body 28 of thecorner member 24 includes atop surface 32 and abottom surface 34. In accordance with the present disclosure, themain body 28 of thecorner member 24 defines a thru-passage 26 that extends through themain body 28 in a direction that is generally perpendicular to planar solar collection area defined by the frame and to the planar front and backside surfaces of thePV panel 12 when the PV panel is secured to the frame in the solar collection area. The thru-passage 26 extends through openings defined in the upper andlower surfaces - The passage has a substantially uniform cross-sectional shape between the upper and lower openings in the main body. However, variations in the cross-sectional shape of the passage may be used for various purposes, such as to provide, locking, positioning and/or connection features (explained in more detail below). The passage may have any suitable shape, including regular shapes, such as square, rectangular, round, polygonal, and the like, as well as irregular shapes.
- The
passage 26 is configured to receiveinsert components 36 which can be used in a number of different ways to facilitate the mounting and assembly of PV modules.Insert components 36 generally comprise a longitudinal member, such as threaded rod or bar, having a cross-sectional shape that is complementary to the cross-sectional shape of thepassage 26. Theinsert component 36 may be formed of a strong, rigid material, such as metal and/or hard plastic which may be provided in various lengths depending on its use. The insert component may also be configured to support electrical conductors as well as electrical devices for connection to the electrical system in PV modules. -
FIG. 3 depicts a simplified example of one configuration of acorner member 24 andcorresponding insert component 36 for aPV module 10. In the embodiment ofFIG. 3 , theinsert component 36 is configured to serve as an attachment/anchoring structure for the PV module. In this embodiment, theinsert component 36 comprises a connecting pin or rod formed of metal, such as steel, although any suitable material may be used. The lower end of the connectingpin 36 is configured to be secured to a mountingsurface 38, such as a roof of a building, a ground mount- or carport structure or a structure on a flat rood as well as a structure on floating water. The upper end of the connectingpin 36 is configured to be retained within thepassage 26 in the corner member. - The connecting
pin 36 may be configured to be extended through thepassage 26 in thecorner member 24 either from above or below and may be secured to the mountingsurface 38 and to thecorner member 24 in any suitable manner. In one embodiment, the connectingpin 36 is configured to be inserted into thepassage 26 through theupper surface 32 as depicted inFIG. 3 . Thepin 36 may be configured to slide through the passage so it can be easily installed by “dropping” it into the passage. In one embodiment, the outer surface of the connectingpin 36 and the surfaces and interior walls of the corner member that define the passage may be configured to enable a locking connection between the corner member and the pin. In another embodiment, the upper end of the pin may include a widened head portion which engages the upper surface of the corner member to prevent movement of thecorner member 24 and solar module in an upward direction with respect to thepin 36. A stop may be provided or installed on the pin for engaging the lower surface of thecorner member 24 to prevent downward movement of thecorner member 24 and PV module with respect to thepin 36. - The
portion 40 of the connectingpin 36 extending between thebottom surface 34 of thecorner member 24 and the attachment/fastening structure at the lower end of the connectingpin 36 may be provided in various lengths depending on the desired mounting configuration of the PV module. For example, the pin may be provided at a length that is configured to space the PV module a predetermined distance from the mounting surface in order to allow air circulation under the PV module to facilitate cooling of PV cells of the PV panel. - The connecting
pin 36 may be configured to provide other functionality for the PV module. For example, in the embodiment ofFIG. 3 , the connectingpin 36 is additionally configured to provide a grounded connection to thePV module 10. As such, thepin 36 is formed of a conductive metal material, such as steel. The connectingpin 36 may be provided with dedicated connection structures (not shown) to facilitate electrical connections to ground and/or to the PV module. The connecting pin may be used provide ground to the frame as well as to the PV panel. To this end, the corner member may include connectors 40 (FIG. 4 ) and conductors 42 (FIG. 4 ) to facilitate a reliable electrical connection to thepin 36. - In the embodiment of
FIG. 1 , the insert component/pin 36 is used with a single PV module.FIGS. 4, 5 and 7 depictcorner members 24 and insertcomponents 36 that are configured to enablePV modules 10 to be attached to each other in a side-by-side, or arrayed, configuration. In one embodiment,corner members 24 from two or moreadjacent PV modules 10 are positioned side-by-side, or corner-to-corner, and aninsert component 36 comprising a corresponding number ofpins 36 is installed in thecorner members 24, as depicted inFIG. 4 . In the embodiment ofFIG. 4 in which two PV modules are connected, the insert component has twopins - A cross-member 37 extends between two
pins pins PV modules 10. The insert component ofFIG. 4 may be configured to serve as part of an attachment/anchoring structure for the PV modules as well as providing a ground connection for the PV modules, in the same manner as theinsert component 36 ofFIG. 3 . -
FIG. 5 depicts another embodiment of acorner member 24 andinsert component 36 combination that may be used to secure PV modules together in a side-by-side, or arrayed, configuration. In the embodiment ofFIG. 5 , thecorner members passages 36 of the corner members can be aligned to form a continuous passage through bothcorner members FIG. 5 , the alignedpassages 36 enable asingle connection pin 36 to be extended through both corner members to secure thePV modules 10 together. In this embodiment, thecorner members lateral extensions passages 36 are defined. The lateral extensions allow the passages to be offset from the frame body so as to provide clearance for the connection pin. - The use of a
single connection pin 36 may require that two different corner member configurations be utilized. For example, inFIG. 5 , thefirst corner member 24 a includes alateral extension 44 a in an upper position with respect to themain body 28, and thesecond corner member 24 b includes alateral extension 24 b in a lower position with respect to themain body 28. The upper and lower positioning of the adjacentlateral extensions corner members corner members FIG. 7 . The connecting pin used in the embodiment ofFIGS. 5 and 7 , as well as any other embodiment described herein, may be extended to secure the PV modules to a mountingsurface 38, such as a roof, as well as being configured to provide a ground connection to the PV modules. - The insert components of the present disclosure may be configured to provide electrical connections to the PV modules in addition to, or as an alternative to, the mechanical connections described above. As depicted in
FIGS. 4-7 , insertcomponents 36 may be provided withelectrical connectors 40 which are configured to establish electrical connections with complementarily configuredconnectors 46 provided in thecorner member 24 when theinsert component 36 is installed in thepassage 26 of thecorner member 24. Theelectrical connectors 46 in thecorner member 24 in turn are connected to the wiring of thePV panel 12, e.g., via junction box 22 (FIG. 1 ) or directly to thepanel 12. Theinsert components 36 can therefore be used to establish electrical connections between PV modules, as depicted inFIGS. 4, 5 and 7 , and between a PV module and an external electrical system (FIG. 6 ) by installing appropriately configuredinsert components 36 into thecorner members 24. - As depicted in
FIG. 6 , insertcomponents 36 may also includeelectronic devices 48 which may be electrically connected to thePV module 10 via theelectrical connectors corner member 24. Theelectronic device 48 may comprise a microinverter for converting the direct current (DC) output of the solar module into an alternating current (AC) which enables the power generated by the PV module to be fed into the electrical grid. Theelectronic device 48 may also comprise an energy storage device which can be used to store the energy output by the PV module. Theelectronic device 48 might further comprise a remote disconnect for rapid shutdown of the equipment in case of an emergency. Of course, different types of electrical connections and electronic devices may be utilized in the insert component and corner members as needed depending on the application. - PV frames 14 having
corner members 24 with thru-passages as described herein also enable a plurality of PV modules to be easily arranged and secured in a stacked configuration. As depicted inFIG. 8 , a plurality ofPV modules 14 having the same configuration can be stacked one on top of the other. At least one corner member of each PV module (which is located in the same position on each module) includes a thru-passage 26 as described above. Any number from one to all of the corners may be provided withcorner members 24 having thru-passages 26. When thePV modules 14 are stacked, thepassages 36 in thecorner members 24 align to form a continuous passage that extends through all of thestacked corner members 24 as depicted inFIG. 8 . - A long connecting
rod 36 may then be extended through thecontinuous passage 26 to secure thePM modules 14 in the stacked configuration. When in the stacked configuration, the plurality ofPV modules 14 can be easily stored and transported as a unit while occupying a minimal amount of space. The connectingrod 36 can be secured to protective panels/pads 50 positioned at one or both ends of the stack if desired (although not necessarily) or to a pallet to facilitate transport. A PV module stack can be easily transported to an installation site and unstacked by simply removing the connecting rod(s). The connecting rod(s) 36 can then be used as a grounding rod for the PV module installation. Depending on the ground conditions it is possible to interconnect a plurality of grounding rods to form a longer rod to enable grounding. - The
corner members 24 may be configured to facilitate alignment of the PV modules when in the stacked configuration so that the passages in the corner members are also aligned. To this end, thecorner members 24 may be provided with upper andlower surfaces FIG. 8 . The upper andlower surfaces corner members 24 when stacked on top of each other to ensure a proper alignment of the thru-passages 26. - While the disclosure has been illustrated and described in detail in the drawings and foregoing description, the same should be considered as illustrative and not restrictive in character. It is understood that only the preferred embodiments have been presented and that all changes, modifications and further applications that come within the spirit of the disclosure are desired to be protected.
Claims (16)
Priority Applications (2)
Application Number | Priority Date | Filing Date | Title |
---|---|---|---|
US14/935,756 US20170133982A1 (en) | 2015-11-09 | 2015-11-09 | Corner connector for photovoltaic module frame |
US16/278,184 US11463044B2 (en) | 2015-11-09 | 2019-02-18 | Corner connector for photovoltaic module frame |
Applications Claiming Priority (1)
Application Number | Priority Date | Filing Date | Title |
---|---|---|---|
US14/935,756 US20170133982A1 (en) | 2015-11-09 | 2015-11-09 | Corner connector for photovoltaic module frame |
Related Child Applications (1)
Application Number | Title | Priority Date | Filing Date |
---|---|---|---|
US16/278,184 Division US11463044B2 (en) | 2015-11-09 | 2019-02-18 | Corner connector for photovoltaic module frame |
Publications (1)
Publication Number | Publication Date |
---|---|
US20170133982A1 true US20170133982A1 (en) | 2017-05-11 |
Family
ID=58663850
Family Applications (2)
Application Number | Title | Priority Date | Filing Date |
---|---|---|---|
US14/935,756 Abandoned US20170133982A1 (en) | 2015-11-09 | 2015-11-09 | Corner connector for photovoltaic module frame |
US16/278,184 Active US11463044B2 (en) | 2015-11-09 | 2019-02-18 | Corner connector for photovoltaic module frame |
Family Applications After (1)
Application Number | Title | Priority Date | Filing Date |
---|---|---|---|
US16/278,184 Active US11463044B2 (en) | 2015-11-09 | 2019-02-18 | Corner connector for photovoltaic module frame |
Country Status (1)
Country | Link |
---|---|
US (2) | US20170133982A1 (en) |
Cited By (3)
Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
---|---|---|---|---|
US10511258B2 (en) * | 2016-06-17 | 2019-12-17 | Sunpower Corporation | Photovoltaic assembly having corner-facing electrical connector port |
US10935282B2 (en) | 2018-03-30 | 2021-03-02 | Sunpower Corporation | Single-walled connecting key framesets |
US10961703B2 (en) * | 2019-08-19 | 2021-03-30 | RAYVA International LLC | Corner assembly for a modular wall overlay system |
Families Citing this family (2)
Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
---|---|---|---|---|
WO2022007290A1 (en) * | 2020-07-04 | 2022-01-13 | 上迈(镇江)新能源科技有限公司 | Photovoltaic mounting system |
USD910544S1 (en) * | 2020-08-06 | 2021-02-16 | Shenzhen Qinyihe Industry Co., Ltd. | Support for solar panel |
Family Cites Families (34)
Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
---|---|---|---|---|
DE3685841D1 (en) | 1985-04-17 | 1992-08-06 | Siemens Ag | SOLAR MODULE WITH CORNER ANGLE. |
US4718185A (en) * | 1986-11-07 | 1988-01-12 | Solar Signage, Inc. | Modular solar generating system |
US7012188B2 (en) | 2000-04-04 | 2006-03-14 | Peter Stuart Erling | Framing system for solar panels |
JP2002141541A (en) * | 2000-10-31 | 2002-05-17 | Canon Inc | Solarlight power generator and construction |
EP1617485B1 (en) | 2004-07-12 | 2007-06-06 | Häberlein-Lehr, Ulla | Modular assembling system for the safe storage of horizontally stacked photovoltaic modules during transport |
US7487771B1 (en) * | 2004-09-24 | 2009-02-10 | Imaginit, Inc. | Solar panel frame assembly and method for forming an array of connected and framed solar panels |
DE102005020129A1 (en) * | 2005-04-29 | 2006-11-09 | Tyco Electronics Amp Gmbh | Solar module for generating electrical energy |
ATE551728T1 (en) * | 2005-10-21 | 2012-04-15 | Ubbink Bv | PHOTOVOLTAIC MODULE WITH A PLASTIC HOLDER FRAME |
DE102006061284A1 (en) | 2006-12-22 | 2008-06-26 | Solarwatt Ag | Plate-shaped photovoltaic solar module has frame made of molded profiles, where inserting corner connecting piece overlaps in corner area of cover side of plate-shaped photovoltaic solar module |
US7762832B2 (en) | 2007-02-12 | 2010-07-27 | Minnick Jamie J | Systems for providing electrical interconnection between solar modules |
CN102089601A (en) | 2008-05-08 | 2011-06-08 | 美国太阳能股份有限公司 | Flat roof mounted solar panel support system |
CN102165602A (en) | 2008-07-02 | 2011-08-24 | 圣戈班性能塑料谢纳有限公司 | Framed device, seal, and method for manufacturing same |
WO2010019749A2 (en) | 2008-08-13 | 2010-02-18 | E. I. Du Pont De Nemours And Company | Method for installing a solar array incorporating hotovoltaic panels having keying structures |
TWM362383U (en) | 2009-03-26 | 2009-08-01 | Sintek Photronic Corp | Assembly frame for use in solar substrate |
US20140102997A1 (en) | 2012-01-17 | 2014-04-17 | Zep Solar, Inc. | Photovoltaic Module Frame |
US20140339179A1 (en) | 2009-10-06 | 2014-11-20 | Zep Solar Llc | Photovoltaic module frame |
EP2346089A1 (en) * | 2010-01-13 | 2011-07-20 | SolarWorld Korea Co., Ltd. | Solar panel assembly having alignment means |
KR100984739B1 (en) | 2010-04-23 | 2010-10-07 | 대주시스템(주) | Solar module frame |
CN102403385A (en) * | 2010-09-07 | 2012-04-04 | 杜邦公司 | Thin-film solar photovoltaic cell module |
DE102011005282A1 (en) * | 2011-03-09 | 2012-09-13 | Robert Bosch Gmbh | Junction box and solar cell arrangement |
US20130140416A1 (en) | 2011-06-07 | 2013-06-06 | Zep Solar, Inc. | Apparatus for Forming and Mounting a Photovoltaic Array |
US9172325B2 (en) | 2011-07-12 | 2015-10-27 | Lumos Lsx, Llc | Photovoltaic panel carrier device |
US8875394B2 (en) | 2011-07-19 | 2014-11-04 | Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing Co., Ltd. | Solar energy collecting modules and method for assembling the same |
US8653359B2 (en) * | 2011-09-25 | 2014-02-18 | Getac Technology Corporation | Solar energy device and using method of the same |
DE102011122339B4 (en) | 2011-12-23 | 2017-06-01 | Heinz Pöhler | Photovoltaic module with a photovoltaic unit and a module frame and method for producing a photovoltaic module |
CN102610681B (en) | 2012-03-30 | 2014-03-05 | 江苏明昊新材料科技有限公司 | Frame of solar photovoltaic module |
US10115841B2 (en) | 2012-06-04 | 2018-10-30 | Solaredge Technologies Ltd. | Integrated photovoltaic panel circuitry |
TWI544190B (en) | 2013-05-30 | 2016-08-01 | 昱晶能源科技股份有限公司 | Frame of photovoltaic panel and l-key thereof |
US9231518B2 (en) | 2013-10-21 | 2016-01-05 | Spice Solar, Inc. | Solar panel mechanical connector and frame |
US10024580B2 (en) * | 2014-01-22 | 2018-07-17 | Pegasus Solar Inc. | Corner connection bracket for solar energy panels |
CN104333313A (en) | 2014-11-19 | 2015-02-04 | 苏州东润太阳能科技有限公司 | Side frame of solar cell |
US20160285405A1 (en) | 2015-03-27 | 2016-09-29 | Pegasus Solar Inc. | Connector assembly for solar panels with asymmetrical engagment |
USD823786S1 (en) | 2015-03-31 | 2018-07-24 | Pegasus Solar Inc. | Asymmetrical solar panel bracket assembly |
CN105227060B (en) | 2015-10-22 | 2017-07-28 | 常州天合光能有限公司 | A kind of method for installing double glass photovoltaic module angle beads |
-
2015
- 2015-11-09 US US14/935,756 patent/US20170133982A1/en not_active Abandoned
-
2019
- 2019-02-18 US US16/278,184 patent/US11463044B2/en active Active
Cited By (7)
Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
---|---|---|---|---|
US10511258B2 (en) * | 2016-06-17 | 2019-12-17 | Sunpower Corporation | Photovoltaic assembly having corner-facing electrical connector port |
US10935282B2 (en) | 2018-03-30 | 2021-03-02 | Sunpower Corporation | Single-walled connecting key framesets |
US11519638B2 (en) | 2018-03-30 | 2022-12-06 | Sunpower Corporation | Single-walled connecting key framesets |
US10961703B2 (en) * | 2019-08-19 | 2021-03-30 | RAYVA International LLC | Corner assembly for a modular wall overlay system |
US11066833B2 (en) | 2019-08-19 | 2021-07-20 | RAYVA International LLC | Modular wall covering system |
US11105101B2 (en) | 2019-08-19 | 2021-08-31 | RAYVA International LLC | Customizable inner frame and lighting for a modular wall overlay system |
US11111678B2 (en) | 2019-08-19 | 2021-09-07 | RAYVA International LLC | Overlay cover and tensioning mechanism for a modular wall overlay system |
Also Published As
Publication number | Publication date |
---|---|
US11463044B2 (en) | 2022-10-04 |
US20190181801A1 (en) | 2019-06-13 |
Similar Documents
Publication | Publication Date | Title |
---|---|---|
US11463044B2 (en) | Corner connector for photovoltaic module frame | |
US8850754B2 (en) | Molded solar panel racking assembly | |
US8572836B2 (en) | Method of manufacturing a large-area segmented photovoltaic module | |
EP3060861B1 (en) | Solar panel mechanical connector and frame | |
US9316417B2 (en) | Framing system for mounting solar collecting devices | |
US20150155819A1 (en) | Hole-thru-laminate mounting supports for photovoltaic modules | |
US20100108118A1 (en) | Photovoltaic power farm structure and installation | |
US20090293941A1 (en) | Photovoltaic power farm structure and installation | |
KR101056531B1 (en) | Slim frame system for solar cell | |
KR101256648B1 (en) | Panel equipped with solar cell module and outer of building thereof | |
US20150381106A1 (en) | Solar cell device | |
TW201027775A (en) | Photovoltaic device, photovoltaic module, sub-construction and method to install a photovoltaic device | |
WO2019191696A1 (en) | Integrated external connectors | |
EP3700083A1 (en) | Aggregated photovoltaic panels | |
US20130061912A1 (en) | Diagonal mounting bracket for a photovoltaic module | |
KR102258755B1 (en) | Support Structure for Solar Cell Module | |
US20160285406A1 (en) | Solar cell array | |
JP2001152619A (en) | Support structure of solar-cell panel | |
JP2006249877A (en) | Solar cell module integrated with roof, its joiner, and construction method for roof installed with solar cell module | |
JP2003008045A (en) | Solar battery array and method for executing the same | |
JP5966855B2 (en) | Installation structure of solar cell module | |
JP6224442B2 (en) | Solar cell module mount and solar cell array using the solar cell module mount | |
JP2016067153A (en) | Installation structure for solar cell module, installation method for solar cell module, and photovoltaic power generation system | |
CA2851813C (en) | Molded solar panel racking assembly | |
JP2014090007A (en) | Solar cell module assembly |
Legal Events
Date | Code | Title | Description |
---|---|---|---|
AS | Assignment |
Owner name: SOLARWORLD AMERICAS INC., OREGON Free format text: ASSIGNMENT OF ASSIGNORS INTEREST;ASSIGNORS:WEINSHENKER, BERYL;STODDARD, NATHAN;SEFCHICK, STEVE;AND OTHERS;REEL/FRAME:036992/0677 Effective date: 20151105 |
|
STPP | Information on status: patent application and granting procedure in general |
Free format text: FINAL REJECTION MAILED |
|
AS | Assignment |
Owner name: SUNPOWER CORPORATION, CALIFORNIA Free format text: ASSIGNMENT OF ASSIGNORS INTEREST;ASSIGNOR:SUNPOWER MANUFACTURING OREGON, LLC;REEL/FRAME:048033/0954 Effective date: 20190108 Owner name: SUNPOWER MANUFACTURING OREGON, LLC, OREGON Free format text: CONFIRMATORY ASSIGNMENT;ASSIGNOR:SOLARWORLD AMERICAS INC.;REEL/FRAME:048079/0119 Effective date: 20190107 |
|
STCB | Information on status: application discontinuation |
Free format text: ABANDONED -- FAILURE TO RESPOND TO AN OFFICE ACTION |