Single-piece hinged clamp for track mounting assemblies
US12206355B2 · kind B2 · utility
Assignee
Inventor
Key dates
| Filing date | Nov 7, 2023 |
| Grant date | Jan 21, 2025 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Nov 7, 2043 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC Y)Emerging Cross-Sectional Technologies
- CPC primaryY02E10/50
- WIPO fieldThermal processes and apparatus
- WIPO sectorMechanical engineering
Abstract
Single-piece hinged-clamps employed used in assemblies used to mount solar power modules to surface installation are disclosed. In some embodiments, a clamp with a right portion with a right notch having a right platform, a left portion with a left notch having a left platform, and a base portion with a flexible hinge is disclosed. The left portion also includes a threaded aperture extending downwardly from the left platform. In some embodiments, a method of securing a component with the clamp is disclosed in which a right member of a component is inserted into a right notch of a clamp, an applied force imparts movement of a left notch away from the right notch, and a buildup of potential energy in the flexible hinge during the application of the force moves the left notch in the opposite direction to engage the left member of the component.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.