Patent · US Expired

Solar panel module and support therefor

US4636577A · kind A · utility

186Cited by
15References
8Claims
0Family size

Assignee

Inventor

Key dates

Filing dateAug 29, 1983
Grant dateJan 13, 1987
Priority date
Expiry dateAug 29, 2003

Classification

  • Technology area (CPC Y)Emerging Cross-Sectional Technologies
  • CPC primaryY02E10/50
  • WIPO fieldThermal processes and apparatus
  • WIPO sectorMechanical engineering

Abstract

A solar panel module for directly mounting to a roof surface comprises a plurality of solar panels and a low profile, elongated frame including a generally flat, rectangular base having a plurality of substantially planar surfaces for supporting the under surfaces of the solar panels. The panels are removably sealed to the frames at the under surfaces thereof, rendering the upper surfaces fully free and unencumbered for receipt of incident solar radiation. The frame includes, integrally therewith, upstanding walls adjacent opposite edges of the panel supporting surfaces, defining raceway channels for concealed passage of electrical wires connected to the solar panels. The channels and walls have provision for overlapping interlocking with similarly fabricated frames for ease of installation, weather-proofing and high-density panel mounting.

Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.