Apparatus for forming and mounting a photovoltaic array
US9154074B2 · kind B2 · utility
Assignee
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | Oct 21, 2014 |
| Grant date | Oct 6, 2015 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Nov 1, 2034 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC Y)Emerging Cross-Sectional Technologies
- CPC primaryY10T403/44
- WIPO fieldThermal processes and apparatus
- WIPO sectorMechanical engineering
Abstract
A photovoltaic (PV) module framing and coupling system enables the attachment of PV modules to a roof or other mounting surface without requiring the use of separate structural support members which attach directly to and span between multiple PV modules in a formed PV array. The apparatus provides a parallel coupling for securely interlocking the outside surfaces of parallel frame members together in a side to side arrangement to form an array with improved structural load distribution. The coupling may attach to a slot in the frame at substantially any position along the length of the frame thereby enabling the interconnection of adjacent PV modules along both an x and y axis. The apparatus may further provide a rotating portion and locking portion, mounting brackets for direct connection to a mounting surface, grounding teeth, and a twist-lock engagement means for interlocking and aligning PV modules in the array.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.