An interlocking photovoltaic module mounting system that provides a one piece, integrated photovoltaic module frame portion that is directly mountable to a support structure and interlocks with separate adjoining photovoltaic module frame portions. The apparatus includes a frame member for enclosing the perimeter of a photovoltaic module, having an inside surface and outside surface, with the inside surface including a recess for capture of the panel. The frame member outside surface includes at least one interlocking means for affixation to the complementary outside surface of an adjacent frame-member. The frame member includes a height-adjustable foot portion for supporting the frame member on a roof, so that adjacent frame members may be interlocked to form an array, and the foot portion may be adjusted to level the formed array on the roof.
|
98. A photovoltaic module array comprising: (a) a plurality of photovoltaic modules; and (b) a plurality of coupling members; wherein each photovoltaic module comprises an integral frame member enclosing a single photovoltaic laminate, said frame member having a plurality of side wall portions each having a top portion, bottom portion, inside surface, and outside surface, said inside surface including a recess for capture of said photovoltaic laminate, at least one of said side wall portions including at least one interlocking portion comprising a female receiving portion integrated into said outside surface, each coupling member interlocking a first photovoltaic module and second photovoltaic module and comprising at least two male portions, a first male portion being inserted into the frame member female receiving portion of a first photovoltaic module, and a second male portion being inserted into the frame member female receiving portion of a second photovoltaic module, wherein said first photovoltaic module frame member female receiving portion comprises an inside surface which positively engages an outside surface of said male coupling portion to resist a downward force on said second photovoltaic module frame member.
90. A photovoltaic module array comprising:
a first frame member enclosing a single photovoltaic laminate, said first frame member having a plurality of side wall portions each having a top portion, bottom portion, inside surface, and outside surface, said inside surface including a recess for capture of said photovoltaic laminate, at least one of said side wall portions including at least one interlocking means comprising a female receiving portion integrated into said outside surface;
a second frame member enclosing a single photovoltaic laminate, said second frame member having a plurality of side wall portions each having a top portion, bottom portion, inside surface, and outside surface, said inside surface including a recess for capture of said photovoltaic laminate, at least one of said side wall portions including at least one interlocking means comprising a female receiving portion integrated into said outside surface; and
a discrete male coupling portion interlocking said first frame member female receiving portion and said second frame member female receiving portion, wherein said first frame member female receiving portion comprises an inside surface which positively engages an outside surface of said male coupling portion to resist a downward force on said second frame member.
110. A photovoltaic module array comprising:
a first frame member enclosing a single photovoltaic laminate, said first frame member having a plurality of side wall portions each having a top portion, bottom portion, inside surface, and outside surface, said inside surface including a recess for capture of said photovoltaic laminate, at least one of said side wall portions including at least one interlocking portion comprising a female receiving portion integrated into said outside surface;
a second frame member enclosing a single photovoltaic laminate, said second frame member having a plurality of side wall portions each having a top portion, bottom portion, inside surface, and outside surface, said inside surface including a recess for capture of said photovoltaic laminate, at least one of said side wall portions including at least one interlocking portion comprising a female receiving portion integrated into said outside surface; and
a discrete male coupling portion interlocking said first frame member female receiving portion and said second frame member female receiving portion, wherein said first frame member female receiving portion comprises an inside surface which positively engages an outside surface of said male coupling portion to resist a downward force on said second frame member.
84. A photovoltaic module array comprising:
a first frame member enclosing a single photovoltaic laminate, said first frame member having a plurality of side wall portions each having a top portion, bottom portion, inside surface, and outside surface, said inside surface including a recess near said top portion for capture of said photovoltaic laminate, at least one of said side wall portions including at least one interlocking portion comprising a female receiving portion integrated into said outside surface;
a second frame member enclosing a single photovoltaic laminate, said second frame member having a plurality of side wall portions each having a top portion, bottom portion, inside surface, and outside surface, said inside surface including a recess near said top portion for capture of said photovoltaic laminate, at least one of said side wall portions including at least one interlocking portion comprising a female receiving portion integrated into said outside surface; and
a discrete male coupling portion interlocking said first frame member female receiving portion and said second frame member female receiving portion, such that (i) a downward load exerted on said second frame member near said male coupling portion is distributed through said coupling to said first frame member and (ii) an inside surface of said first frame member female receiving portion positively engages an outside surface of said male coupling portion to resist said downward load.
104. A method for mounting photovoltaic modules to a roof structure, said method comprising the steps of:
providing a first frame member enclosing a single photovoltaic laminate, the first frame member having a plurality of side wall portions each having a top portion, bottom portion, inside surface, and outside surface, the inside surface including a recess for capture of the photovoltaic laminate, and at least one of the side wall portions including at least one interlocking portion comprising a female receiving portion integrated into the outside surface;
providing a second frame member enclosing a single photovoltaic laminate, the second frame member having a plurality of side wall portions each having a top portion, bottom portion, inside surface, and outside surface, the inside surface including a recess for capture of the photovoltaic laminate, and at least one of the side wall portions including at least one interlocking portion comprising a female receiving portion integrated into the outside surface; and
inserting a discrete male coupling portion into the first frame member female receiving portion and the second frame member female receiving portion to interlock the first frame member and the second frame member in an array above the structure, wherein the first frame member female receiving portion comprises an inside surface which positively engages an outside surface of the male coupling portion to resist a downward force on the second frame member.
141. A photovoltaic module array comprising: (a) a plurality of photovoltaic modules; and (b) a plurality of coupling members; wherein each photovoltaic module comprises an integral frame member enclosing a single photovoltaic laminate, said frame member having a plurality of side wall portions each having a top portion, bottom portion, inside surface, and outside surface, said inside surface including a recess near said top portion for capture of said photovoltaic laminate, at least one of said side wall portions including at least one interlocking portion comprising a female receiving portion integrated into said outside surface, a first coupling member of said coupling members interlocking a first frame member of a first photovoltaic module of said plurality of photovoltaic modules and a second frame member of a second photovoltaic module of said plurality of photovoltaic modules and comprising at least two male portions, a first male portion being inserted into the frame member female receiving portion of said first photovoltaic module, and a second male portion being inserted into the frame member female receiving portion of said second photovoltaic module, such that a downward force exerted on said second frame member near said male coupling portion is distributed between said first frame member and said second frame member; wherein said first frame member female receiving portion comprises an inside surface which positively engages an outside surface of said male coupling portion to resist said downward force on said second frame member.
54. A photovoltaic module array comprising: (a) a plurality of photovoltaic modules; and (b) a plurality of coupling members; wherein each photovoltaic module comprises an integral frame member enclosing a single photovoltaic laminate, said frame member having a plurality of side wall portions each having a top portion, bottom portion, inside surface, and outside surface, said inside surface including a recess near said top portion for capture of said photovoltaic laminate, at least one of said side wall portions including at least one interlocking portion comprising a female receiving portion integrated into said outside surface, a first coupling member of said coupling members interlocking a first frame member of a first photovoltaic module of said plurality of photovoltaic modules and a second frame member of a second photovoltaic module of said plurality of photovoltaic modules and comprising at least two male portions, a first male portion being inserted into the frame member female receiving portion of said first photovoltaic module, and a second male portion being inserted into the frame member female receiving portion of said second photovoltaic module, such that said first frame member and said second frame member both resist a substantially downward force exerted on said second frame member near said male coupling portion; wherein said first frame member female receiving portion comprises an inside surface which positively engages an outside surface of said male coupling portion to resist said downward force on said second frame member.
146. A photovoltaic module array comprising:
a first frame member enclosing a single photovoltaic laminate, said first frame member having a plurality of side wall portions each having a top portion, bottom portion, inside surface, and outside surface, said inside surface including a recess near said top portion for capture of said photovoltaic laminate, at least one of said side wall portions including at least one interlocking portion comprising a female receiving portion integrated into said outside surface;
a second frame member enclosing a single photovoltaic laminate, said second frame member having a plurality of side wall portions each having a top portion, bottom portion, inside surface, and outside surface, said inside surface including a recess near said top portion for capture of said photovoltaic laminate, at least one of said side wall portions including at least one interlocking portion comprising a female receiving portion integrated into said outside surface; and a discrete male coupling portion interlocking said first frame member female receiving portion and said second frame member female receiving portion, such that (i) a downward load exerted on said second frame member near said male coupling portion is distributed through said coupling to said first frame member and (ii) an inside surface of said first frame member female receiving portion positively engages an outside surface of said male coupling portion to resist said downward load;
wherein said photovoltaic module array further comprises a plurality of height-adjustable foot portions.
142. A photovoltaic module array comprising: (a) a plurality of photovoltaic modules; and (b) a plurality of coupling members; wherein each photovoltaic module comprises an integral frame member enclosing a single photovoltaic laminate, said frame member having a plurality of side wall portions each having a top portion, bottom portion, inside surface, and outside surface, said inside surface including a recess near said top portion for capture of said photovoltaic laminate, at least one of said side wall portions including at least one interlocking portion comprising a female receiving portion integrated into said outside surface, a first coupling member of said coupling members interlocking a first frame member of a first photovoltaic module of said plurality of photovoltaic modules and a second frame member of a second photovoltaic module of said plurality of photovoltaic modules and comprising at least two male portions, a first male portion being inserted into the frame member female receiving portion of said first photovoltaic module, and a second male portion being inserted into the frame member female receiving portion of said second photovoltaic module, such that a first downward force exerted on said first frame member at a point directly above said male coupling portion causes said male coupling portion to exert a second downward force on said second frame member; wherein said first frame member female receiving portion comprises an inside surface which positively engages an outside surface of said male coupling portion to resist said first downward force on said second frame member.
130. A photovoltaic module array comprising:
a first frame member enclosing a single photovoltaic laminate, said first frame member having a plurality of side wall portions each having a top portion, bottom portion, inside surface, and outside surface, said inside surface including a recess near said top portion for capture of said photovoltaic laminate, at least one of said side wall portions including at least one interlocking portion comprising a female receiving portion integrated into said outside surface;
a second frame member enclosing a single photovoltaic laminate, said second frame member having a plurality of side wall portions each having a top portion, bottom portion, inside surface, and outside surface, said inside surface including a recess near said top portion for capture of said photovoltaic laminate, at least one of said side wall portions including at least one interlocking portion comprising a female receiving portion integrated into said outside surface; and a discrete male coupling portion interlocking said first frame member female receiving portion and said second frame member female receiving portion;
wherein said first and second frame member side wall portions' outside surfaces each face a direction substantially opposite respective inside surfaces and comprise a length substantially parallel with a skyward facing plane of said photovoltaic laminate, and said male coupling portion has a length substantially less than a length of one of said female receiving portions;
wherein said first frame member female receiving portion comprises an inside surface which positively engages an outside surface of said male coupling portion to resist a downward force on said second frame member.
108. A photovoltaic module array comprising:
a first frame member enclosing a single photovoltaic laminate, said first frame member having a plurality of side wall portions each having a top portion, bottom portion, inside surface, and outside surface, said inside surface including a recess near said top portion for capture of said photovoltaic laminate, at least one of said side wall portions including at least one interlocking portion comprising a female receiving portion having an interlocking function integrated into said outside surface;
a second frame member enclosing a single photovoltaic laminate, said second frame member having a plurality of side wall portions each having a top portion, bottom portion, inside surface, and outside surface, said inside surface including a recess near said top portion for capture of said photovoltaic laminate, at least one of said side wall portions including at least one interlocking portion comprising a female receiving portion having an interlocking function integrated into said outside surface; and
a discrete male coupling portion interlocking said first frame member female receiving portion and said second frame member female receiving portion;
wherein said first and second frame member side wall portions' outside surfaces each face a direction substantially opposite respective inside surfaces and comprise a length substantially parallel with a skyward facing plane of said photovoltaic laminate, and said male coupling portion has a length substantially less than a length of one of said side wall portions;
wherein said photovoltaic array is mounted to a roof in a strutless configuration and said first frame member female receiving portion comprises an inside surface which positively engages an outside surface of said male coupling portion to resist a downward force on said second frame member.
118. A photovoltaic module array comprising:
a first frame member enclosing a single photovoltaic laminate, said first frame member having a plurality of side wall portions each having a top portion, bottom portion, inside surface, and outside surface, said inside surface including a recess for capture of said photovoltaic laminate, at least one of said side wall portions including at least one interlocking portion comprising a female receiving portion integrated into said outside surface;
a second frame member enclosing a single photovoltaic laminate, said second frame member having a plurality of side wall portions each having a top portion, bottom portion, inside surface, and outside surface, said inside surface including a recess for capture of said photovoltaic laminate, at least one of said side wall portions including at least one interlocking portion comprising a female receiving portion integrated into said outside surface;
a discrete male coupling portion interlocking said first frame member female receiving portion and said second frame member female receiving portion;
wherein said first and second frame member side wall portions' outside surfaces each face a direction substantially opposite respective inside surfaces and comprise a length substantially parallel with a skyward facing plane of said photovoltaic laminate, said female receiving portions run substantially the entire length of said respective side wall portions, and said male coupling portion has a length substantially less than a length of one of said female receiving portions, thereby enabling said male coupling portion to be located at substantially any position along said length of said female receiving portion;
wherein said first frame member female receiving portion comprises an inside surface which positively engages an outside surface of said male coupling portion to resist said downward force on said second frame member.
132. A photovoltaic module array comprising:
a first photovoltaic module comprising a first frame member enclosing a single photovoltaic laminate, said first frame member having a plurality of side wall portions each having a top portion, bottom portion, inside surface, and outside surface, said inside surface including a recess for capture of said photovoltaic laminate, at least one of said side wall portions including at least one interlocking portion comprising a female receiving portion integrated into said outside surface;
a second photovoltaic module comprising a second frame member enclosing a single photovoltaic laminate, said second frame member having a plurality of side wall portions each having a top portion, bottom portion, inside surface, and outside surface, said inside surface including a recess for capture of said photovoltaic laminate, at least one of said side wall portions including at least one interlocking portion comprising a female receiving portion integrated into said outside surface; and
a discrete male coupling portion interlocking said first frame member female receiving portion and said second frame member female receiving portion, wherein said first frame member female receiving portion comprises an inside surface which positively engages an outside surface of said male coupling portion to resist a downward force on said second frame member; and
a mechanism that mounts said array on top of a roof of a building without said modules (a) being integrated into the roof and (b) forming a part of the weather-tight skin of the building;
wherein said first and second photovoltaic modules are removably interlocked and said mechanism mounts said modules adjustably in X, Y, and Z dimensions above and relative to a given position of said roof, said mechanism comprising foot portions to adjust a height of said array on top of the roof, said foot portions adjustably connecting directly to said modules.
145. A photovoltaic module array comprising: (a) a plurality of photovoltaic modules; and (b) a plurality of coupling members; wherein each photovoltaic module comprises an integral frame member enclosing a single photovoltaic laminate, said frame member having a plurality of side wall portions each having a top portion, bottom portion, inside surface, and outside surface, said inside surface including a recess near said top portion for capture of said photovoltaic laminate, at least one of said side wall portions including at least one interlocking portion comprising a female receiving portion integrated into said outside surface, a first coupling member of said coupling members interlocking a first frame member of a first photovoltaic module of said plurality of photovoltaic modules and a second frame member of a second photovoltaic module of said plurality of photovoltaic modules and comprising at least two male portions, a first male portion being inserted into the frame member female receiving portion of said first photovoltaic module, and a second male portion being inserted into the frame member female receiving portion of said second photovoltaic module, such that said first frame member and said second frame member both resist a substantially downward force exerted on said second frame member near said male coupling portion; wherein said first frame member female receiving portion comprises an inside surface which positively engages an outside surface of said male coupling portion to resist said downward force on said second frame member;
wherein said first frame member comprises a height-adjustable foot portion for supporting said first frame member, said height-adjustable foot portion comprising a threaded height adjustment mechanism, said threaded height adjustment mechanism being operable from a position substantially above said female receiving portions of said first and second frame members in said photovoltaic module array.
30. A photovoltaic module array comprising:
a first frame member enclosing a single photovoltaic laminate, said first frame member having a plurality of side wall portions each having a top portion, bottom portion, inside surface, and outside surface, said inside surface including a recess near said top portion for capture of said photovoltaic laminate, at least one of said side wall portions including at least one interlocking portion comprising a female receiving portion integrated into said outside surface;
a second frame member enclosing a single photovoltaic laminate, said second frame member having a plurality of side wall portions each having a top portion, bottom portion, inside surface, and outside surface, said inside surface including a recess near said top portion for capture of said photovoltaic laminate, at least one of said side wall portions including at least one interlocking portion comprising a female receiving portion integrated into said outside surface; and
a discrete male coupling portion interlocking said first frame member female receiving portion and said second frame member female receiving portion;
wherein said first and second frame member side wall portions' outside surfaces each face a direction substantially opposite respective inside surfaces and comprise a length substantially parallel with a skyward facing plane of said photovoltaic laminate, and said male coupling portion has a length substantially less than a length of one of said sidewall portions;
wherein said photovoltaic array is mounted to a roof in a strutless configuration and said first frame member female receiving portion comprises an inside surface which positively engages an outside surface of said male coupling portion to resist a downward force on said second frame member, said strutless configuration not having two or more struts running above a roofing surface of said roof and fully spanning across said first and second frame members.
3. A photovoltaic module array comprising:
a first frame member enclosing a single photovoltaic laminate, said first frame member having a plurality of side wall portions each having a top portion, bottom portion, inside surface, and outside surface, said inside surface including a recess for capture of said photovoltaic laminate, at least one of said side wall portions including at least one interlocking portion comprising a female receiving portion integrated into said outside surface;
a second frame member enclosing a single photovoltaic laminate, said second frame member having a plurality of side wall portions each having a top portion, bottom portion, inside surface, and outside surface, said inside surface including a recess for capture of said photovoltaic laminate, at least one of said side wall portions including at least one interlocking portion comprising a female receiving portion integrated into said outside surface;
a discrete male coupling portion interlocking said first frame member female receiving portion and said second frame member female receiving portion, such that said first frame member contributes to a resistance of a downward force exerted on said second frame member near said male coupling portion;
wherein said first and second frame member side wall portions' outside surfaces each face a direction substantially opposite respective inside surfaces and comprise a length substantially parallel with a skyward facing plane of said photovoltaic laminate, said female receiving portions run substantially the entire length of said respective side wall portions, and said male coupling portion has a length substantially less than a length of one of said female receiving portions, thereby enabling said male coupling portion to be located at substantially any position along said length of said female receiving portion;
wherein said first frame member female receiving portion comprises an inside surface which positively engages an outside surface of said male coupling portion to resist said downward force; and
wherein said photovoltaic module array comprises a height-adjustable foot portion.
136. A photovoltaic module array comprising:
a first frame member enclosing a single photovoltaic laminate, said first frame member having a plurality of side wall portions each having a top portion, bottom portion, inside surface, and outside surface, said inside surface including a recess near said top portion for capture of said photovoltaic laminate, at least one of said side wall portions including at least one interlocking means comprising a female receiving portion integrated into said outside surface;
a second frame member enclosing a single photovoltaic laminate, said second frame member having a plurality of side wall portions each having a top portion, bottom portion, inside surface, and outside surface, said inside surface including a recess near said top portion for capture of said photovoltaic laminate, at least one of said side wall portions including at least one interlocking means comprising a female receiving portion integrated into said outside surface; and a discrete male coupling portion interlocking said first frame member female receiving portion and said second frame member female receiving portion in a first position;
wherein said first and second frame member side wall portions' outside surfaces each face a direction substantially opposite respective inside surfaces and comprise a length substantially parallel with a skyward facing plane of said photovoltaic laminate, and said male coupling portion has a length substantially less than a length of one of said female receiving portions;
wherein said first frame member female receiving portion comprises an inside surface which positively engages an outside surface of said male coupling portion to resist a downward force on said second frame member; and
wherein said first position of said male coupling portion is substantially laterally displaced from and laterally adjustable relative to a closest rafter of a plurality of rafters supporting a roof to said male coupling portion, said closest rafter extending in a direction substantially perpendicular to said length and closer to said male coupling portion than all other rafters of said plurality of rafters.
33. A photovoltaic module array comprising:
a first photovoltaic module comprising a first frame member enclosing a single photovoltaic laminate, said first frame member having a plurality of side wall portions each having a top portion, bottom portion, inside surface, and outside surface, said inside surface including a recess near said top portion for capture of said photovoltaic laminate, at least one of said side wall portions comprising a female receiving portion having an interlocking function integrated into said outside surface;
a second photovoltaic module comprising a second frame member enclosing a single photovoltaic laminate, said second frame member having a plurality of side wall portions each having a top portion, bottom portion, inside surface, and outside surface, said inside surface including a recess near said top portion for capture of said photovoltaic laminate, at least one of said side wall portions comprising a female receiving portion having an interlocking function integrated into said outside surface; and
a discrete male coupling portion interlocking said first frame member female receiving portion and said second frame member female receiving portion;
wherein an installed location of said male coupling portion and a location of a connection point between said first frame member and a support structure are independently adjustable laterally relative to said first frame member, said support structure located beneath said first frame member and supporting said photovoltaic module array;
wherein said first and second frame member side wall portions' outside surfaces each face a direction substantially opposite respective inside surfaces and comprise a length substantially parallel with a skyward facing plane of said photovoltaic laminate, and said male coupling portion has a length substantially less than a length of one of said female receiving portions;
wherein said first photovoltaic module is located immediately above and off of said support structure and said first frame member female receiving portion comprises an inside surface which positively engages an outside surface of said male coupling portion to resist a downward force on said second frame member.
24. A photovoltaic module array comprising:
a first frame member enclosing a single photovoltaic laminate, said first frame member having a plurality of side wall portions each having a top portion, bottom portion, inside surface, and outside surface, said inside surface including a recess near said top portion for capture of said photovoltaic laminate, at least one of said side wall portions comprising a female receiving portion having an interlocking function integrated into said outside surface;
a second frame member enclosing a single photovoltaic laminate, said second frame member having a plurality of side wall portions each having a top portion, bottom portion, inside surface, and outside surface, said inside surface including a recess near said top portion for capture of said photovoltaic laminate, at least one of said side wall portions comprising a female receiving portion having an interlocking function integrated into said outside surface;
a discrete male coupling portion interlocking said first frame member female receiving portion and said second frame member female receiving portion, an installed position of said male coupling portion movably located at a variable location along said first frame member female receiving portion to vary a distance from a closest connection point to a support structure, said closest connection point being (a) one of a plurality of connection points comprising all connection points where said frame members connect to said support structure,
said connections to said support structure including penetrations through a roofing surface and (b) closer to said male coupling portion than all other connection points of said plurality of connection points;
wherein said first and second frame member side wall portions' outside surfaces each face a direction substantially opposite respective inside surfaces and comprise a length substantially parallel with a skyward facing plane of said photovoltaic laminate, and said male coupling portion has a length substantially less than a length of one of said female receiving portions; and
wherein said first frame member female receiving portion comprises an inside surface which positively engages an outside surface of said male coupling portion to resist a downward force on said second frame member.
46. A photovoltaic module array comprising:
a first frame member enclosing a single photovoltaic laminate, said first frame member having a plurality of side wall portions each having a top portion, bottom portion, inside surface, and outside surface, said inside surface including a recess near said top portion for capture of said photovoltaic laminate, at least one of said side wall portions including at least one interlocking portion comprising a female receiving portion having an interlocking function integrated into said outside surface;
a second frame member enclosing a single photovoltaic laminate, said second frame member having a plurality of side wall portions each having a top portion, bottom portion, inside surface, and outside surface, said inside surface including a recess near said top portion for capture of said photovoltaic laminate, at least one of said side wall portions including at least one interlocking portion comprising a female receiving portion having an interlocking function integrated into said outside surface;
a height-adjustable foot portion; and
a self-locking male coupling portion comprising a first male portion inserted into and engagingly mating with an inside portion of said first frame member female receiving portion and a second male portion inserted into and engagingly mating with an inside portion of said second frame member female receiving portion to securely interlock said first and second frame members together, said first male portion comprising a positive engagement portion that securely locks into said female receiving portion;
wherein said first frame member and said self-locking male coupling portion elevate a portion of said second frame member off of said roofing surface such that said first and second photovoltaic (PV) laminates are substantially coplanar; said first and second frame member side wall portions' outside surfaces each face a direction substantially opposite respective inside surfaces and comprise a length substantially parallel with a skyward facing plane of said photovoltaic laminate, said female receiving portions run substantially the entire length of said side wall portions, and said self-locking male coupling portion has a length substantially less than a length of one of said frame member side wall portions.
131. A photovoltaic module array comprising:
a first frame member enclosing a single photovoltaic laminate, said first frame member having a plurality of side wall portions each having a top portion, bottom portion, inside surface, and outside surface, said inside surface including a recess for capture of said photovoltaic laminate, a first sidewall portion of said side wall portions including at least one interlocking portion comprising a first frame member female receiving portion integrated into said outside surface, a second sidewall portion of said sidewall portions orthogonally connected to said first sidewall portion and including at least one interlocking portion comprising a first frame member orthogonal female receiving portion;
a second frame member enclosing a single photovoltaic laminate, said second frame member having a plurality of side wall portions each having a top portion, bottom portion, inside surface, and outside surface, said inside surface including a recess for capture of said photovoltaic laminate, at least one of said side wall portions including at least one interlocking portion comprising a female receiving portion integrated into said outside surface;
a third frame member enclosing a single photovoltaic laminate, said first frame member having a plurality of side wall portions each having a top portion, bottom portion, inside surface, and outside surface, said inside surface including a recess for capture of said photovoltaic laminate, at least one of said side wall portions including at least one interlocking portion comprising a female receiving portion integrated into said outside surface;
a first discrete male coupling portion interlocking said first frame member female receiving portion and said second frame member female receiving portion, wherein said first frame member female receiving portion comprises a first inside surface portion which positively engages an outside surface of said first male coupling portion to resist a downward force on said second frame member; and
a second discrete male coupling portion interlocking said first frame member orthogonal female receiving portion and said third frame member female receiving portion, wherein said first frame member orthogonal female receiving portion comprises a second inside surface portion which positively engages an outside surface of said second male coupling portion to resist a downward force on said third frame member.
134. A photovoltaic module array comprising:
a first frame member enclosing a single photovoltaic laminate, said first frame member having a plurality of side wall portions each having a top portion, bottom portion, inside surface, and outside surface, said inside surface including a recess near said top portion for capture of said photovoltaic laminate, at least one of said side wall portions comprising a female receiving portion integrated into said outside surface;
a second frame member enclosing a single photovoltaic laminate, said second frame member having a plurality of side wall portions each having a top portion, bottom portion, inside surface, and outside surface, said inside surface including a recess near said top portion for capture of said photovoltaic laminate, at least one of said side wall portions comprising a female receiving portion integrated into said outside surface;
a discrete male coupling portion laterally adjustably interlocking said first frame member female receiving portion and said second frame member female receiving portion in a first installed position; and
a plurality comprising all discrete attachment portions laterally adjustably attaching said frame members to a support structure, a closest attachment portion of said plurality to said male coupling portion located closer to said male coupling portion than all other attachment portions in said plurality, said support structure supporting a roof;
wherein said male coupling portion is movable to a second installed position substantially laterally displaced from said first installed position while said closest attachment portion remains attached to said support structure, said male coupling portion laterally adjustably interlocking said first frame member female receiving portion and said second frame member female receiving portion in said second installed position; and
wherein said first and second frame member side wall portions' outside surfaces each face a direction substantially opposite respective inside surfaces and comprise a length substantially parallel with a skyward facing plane of said photovoltaic laminate, and said male coupling portion has a length substantially less than a length of one of said female receiving portions; and
wherein said first frame member female receiving portion comprises an inside surface which positively engages an outside surface of said male coupling portion to resist a downward force on said second frame member.
138. A photovoltaic module array comprising:
a first photovoltaic module having a first frame member enclosing a single photovoltaic laminate, said first frame member having a plurality of side wall portions each having a top portion, bottom portion, inside surface, and outside surface, said inside surface including a recess near said top portion for capture of said photovoltaic laminate, at least one of said side wall portions including at least one interlocking portion comprising a female receiving portion integrated into said outside surface;
a second photovoltaic module having a second frame member enclosing a single photovoltaic laminate, said second frame member having a plurality of side wall portions each having a top portion, bottom portion, inside surface, and outside surface, said inside surface including a recess near said top portion for capture of said photovoltaic laminate, at least one of said side wall portions including at least one interlocking portion comprising a female receiving portion integrated into said outside surface; and
a discrete male coupling portion interlocking said first frame member female receiving portion and said second frame member female receiving portion and movably located in a laterally variable location along said first frame member female receiving portion, said laterally variable location movable relative to a nearest support structure connection point to said male coupling portion, said connection point closer to said male coupling portion than all other connection points to said support structure in said photovoltaic module array, said support structure located beneath said first frame member;
wherein said first and second frame member side wall portions' outside surfaces each face a direction substantially opposite respective inside surfaces and comprise a length substantially parallel with a skyward facing plane of said photovoltaic laminate, and said male coupling portion has a length substantially less than a length of one of said sidewall portions;
wherein said photovoltaic array is mounted to a roof in a strutless configuration and said first frame member female receiving portion comprises an inside surface which positively engages an outside surface of said male coupling portion to resist a downward force on said second frame member, said strutless configuration not having two or more struts running above a roofing surface of said roof and fully spanning across said first and second frame members.
20. A photovoltaic module array comprising:
a first photovoltaic module comprising a first frame member enclosing a single photovoltaic laminate, said first frame member having a plurality of side wall portions each having a top portion, bottom portion, inside surface, and outside surface, said inside surface including a recess near said top portion for capture of said photovoltaic laminate, at least one of said side wall portions comprising a female receiving portion integrated into in said outside surface, wherein said female receiving portion only opens substantially perpendicularly perpendicular relative to said side wall portion;
a second photovoltaic module comprising a second frame member enclosing a single photovoltaic laminate, said second frame member having a plurality of side wall portions each having a top portion, bottom portion, inside surface, and outside surface, said inside surface including a recess near said top portion for capture of said photovoltaic laminate, at least one of said side wall portions comprising a female receiving portion integrated into in said outside surface, wherein said female receiving portion only opens substantially perpendicularly perpendicular relative to said side wall portion;
a discrete male coupling portion interlocking said first frame member female receiving portion and said second frame member female receiving portion to form an elevated and connected array structure on top of a roofing surface, said first and second photovoltaic modules located immediately above and off of said roofing surface, said roofing surface forming part of a weather-tight skin of a building, extending from at least a ridge of said roof beneath said first frame member to a gutter of said roof, and comprising at least one of a shingle, a tile, and a shake;
an attachment portion penetrating through said roofing surface to attach said first frame member to said building, wherein said attachment portion comprises a height adjustable foot;
wherein said male coupling portion solely spans between immediately adjacent side wall portions in said photovoltaic module array; and
wherein said first and second frame member side wall portions' outside surfaces each face a direction substantially opposite respective inside surfaces and comprise a length substantially parallel with a skyward facing plane of said first frame member photovoltaic laminate, said female receiving portions run substantially the entire length of said respective side wall portions, and said male coupling portion has a length substantially less than a length of one of said female receiving portions, thereby enabling said male coupling portion to be located at substantially any position along said length of said female receiving portion.
144. A photovoltaic module array comprising:
a first frame member enclosing a single photovoltaic laminate, said first frame member having a plurality of side wall portions each having a top portion, bottom portion, inside surface, and outside surface, said inside surface including a recess near said top portion for capture of said photovoltaic laminate, at least one of said side wall portions including at least one interlocking means comprising a female receiving portion integrated into said outside surface;
a second frame member enclosing a single photovoltaic laminate, said second frame member having a plurality of side wall portions each having a top portion, bottom portion, inside surface, and outside surface, said inside surface including a recess near said top portion for capture of said photovoltaic laminate, at least one of said side wall portions including at least one interlocking means comprising a female receiving portion integrated into said outside surface;
a discrete male coupling portion interlocking said first frame member female receiving portion and said second frame member female receiving portion, an installed position of said male coupling portion movably located at a variable location along said first frame member female receiving portion to vary a distance from a closest connection point to a support structure, said closest connection point being (a) one of a plurality of connection points comprising all connection points where said frame members connect to said support structure, said connections to said support structure including penetrations through a roofing surface and (b) closer to said male coupling portion than all other connection points of said plurality of connection points; and
wherein said first and second frame member side wall portions' outside surfaces each face a direction substantially opposite respective inside surfaces and comprise a length substantially parallel with a skyward facing plane of said photovoltaic laminate, and said male coupling portion has a length substantially less than a length of one of said female receiving portions;
wherein said first frame member female receiving portion comprises an inside surface which positively engages an outside surface of said male coupling portion to resist a downward force on said second frame member;
wherein said first frame member and photovoltaic laminate form a first photovoltaic module and said connection point to said support structure further includes a mounting foot positioning said first photovoltaic module off of said roofing surface and attaching said first frame member to said support structure; and
wherein installed positions of said mounting foot and said male coupling portion are independently adjustable laterally relative to said first frame member.
36. A photovoltaic module array for retrofitting on top of a roof, comprising:
a first frame member enclosing a single photovoltaic laminate, said first frame member having a plurality of side wall portions each having a top portion, bottom portion, inside surface, and outside surface, said inside surface including a recess near said top portion for capture of said photovoltaic laminate, a first frame member side wall portion of said side wall portions extending from a first corner to a second corner of said first frame member and comprising a female receiving portion having an interlocking function integrated into said outside surface;
a second frame member enclosing a single photovoltaic laminate, said second frame member having a plurality of side wall portions each having a top portion, bottom portion, inside surface, and outside surface, said inside surface including a recess near said top portion for capture of said photovoltaic laminate, a second frame member side wall portion of said side wall portions comprising a female receiving portion having an interlocking function integrated into said outside surface;
two discrete male coupling portions interlocking said first frame member female receiving portion and said second frame member female receiving portion; and
a plurality of mounting feet, said plurality of mounting feet comprising all mounting feet attaching said photovoltaic module array to said roof, each mounting foot of said plurality of mounting feet comprising a fastener penetrating a roofing surface of said roof and securing said mounting foot to a discrete structural member beneath and supporting said roofing surface, wherein said photovoltaic module array is retrofitted on top of said roof, only one mounting foot of said plurality of mounting feet is secured to said first frame member sidewall portion, and no mounting feet of said plurality of mounting feet are secured to said second frame member sidewall portion, thereby minimizing a number of penetrations through said roofing surface required to mount said frame members;
wherein said first and second frame member side wall portions' outside surfaces each face a direction substantially opposite respective inside surfaces and comprise a length substantially parallel with a skyward facing plane of said photovoltaic laminate, said female receiving portions run substantially the entire length of said respective side wall portions, and said male coupling portion has a length substantially less than a length of one of said female receiving portions, thereby enabling said male coupling portion to be located at substantially any position along said length of said female receiving portion;
wherein said first frame member female receiving portion comprises an inside surface which positively engages an outside surface of said male coupling portion to resist a downward force on said second frame member.
1. A photovoltaic module array comprising:
a first frame member enclosing a single photovoltaic laminate, said first frame member having a plurality of side wall portions each having a top portion, bottom portion, inside surface, and outside surface, said inside surface including a recess for capture of said photovoltaic laminate, at least one of said side wall portions including at least one interlocking means comprising a female receiving portion integrated into said outside surface;
a second frame member enclosing a single photovoltaic laminate, said second frame member having a plurality of side wall portions each having a top portion, bottom portion, inside surface, and outside surface, said inside surface including a recess for capture of said photovoltaic laminate, at least one of said side wall portions including at least one interlocking means comprising a female receiving portion integrated into said outside surface; and
a discrete male coupling portion interlocking said first frame member female receiving portion and said second frame member female receiving portion, wherein said first frame member female receiving portion comprises an inside surface which positively engages an outside surface of said male coupling portion to resist a downward force on said second frame member.
2. The photovoltaic module array of
4. The photovoltaic module array of
5. The photovoltaic module array of
6. The photovoltaic module array of
7. The photovoltaic module array of
8. The photovoltaic module array of
9. A photovoltaic module array comprising:
(a) a plurality of photovoltaic modules; and
(b) a plurality of coupling members; wherein each photovoltaic module comprises an integral frame member enclosing a single photovoltaic laminate, said frame member having a plurality of side wall portions each having a top portion, bottom portion, inside surface, and outside surface, said inside surface including a recess for capture of said photovoltaic laminate, at least one of said side wall portions including at least one interlocking means comprising a female receiving portion integrated into said outside surface, each coupling member interlocking a first photovoltaic module and second photovoltaic module and comprising at least two male portions, a first male portion being inserted into the frame member female receiving portion of a first photovoltaic module, and a second male portion being inserted into the frame member female receiving portion of a second photovoltaic module, wherein said first photovoltaic module frame member female receiving portion comprises an inside surface which positively engages an outside surface of said male coupling portion to resist a downward force on said second photovoltaic module frame member.
10. The photovoltaic module array of
11. The photovoltaic module array of
12. The photovoltaic module array of
13. The photovoltaic module array of
14. The photovoltaic module array of
15. A method for mounting photovoltaic modules to a roof structure, said method comprising the steps of:
providing a first frame member enclosing a single photovoltaic laminate, the first frame member having a plurality of side wall portions each having a top portion, bottom portion, inside surface, and outside surface, the inside surface including a recess for capture of the photovoltaic laminate, and at least one of the side wall portions including at least one interlocking means comprising a female receiving portion integrated into the outside surface;
providing a second frame member enclosing a single photovoltaic laminate, the second frame member having a plurality of side wall portions each having a top portion, bottom portion, inside surface, and outside surface, the inside surface including a recess for capture of the photovoltaic laminate, and at least one of the side wall portions including at least one interlocking means comprising a female receiving portion integrated into the outside surface; and
inserting a discrete male coupling portion into the first frame member female receiving portion and the second frame member female receiving portion to interlock the first frame member and the second frame member in an array above the structure, wherein the first frame member female receiving portion comprises an inside surface which positively engages an outside surface of the male coupling portion to resist a downward force on the second frame member.
16. The method for mounting photovoltaic modules to a structure of
17. The method for mounting photovoltaic modules to a structure of
18. The method for mounting photovoltaic modules to a structure of
19. A photovoltaic module array comprising:
a first frame member enclosing a single photovoltaic laminate, said first frame member having a plurality of side wall portions each having a top portion, bottom portion, inside surface, and outside surface, said inside surface including a recess for capture of said photovoltaic laminate, at least one of said side wall portions including at least one interlocking means comprising a female receiving portion integrated into said outside surface, wherein said female receiving portion only opens substantially perpendicularly relative to said side wall portion;
a second frame member enclosing a single photovoltaic laminate, said second frame member having a plurality of side wall portions each having a top portion, bottom portion, inside surface, and outside surface, said inside surface including a recess for capture of said photovoltaic laminate, at least one of said side wall portions including at least one interlocking means comprising a female receiving portion integrated into said outside surface, wherein said female receiving portion only opens substantially perpendicularly relative to said side wall portion; and
a discrete male coupling portion interlocking said first frame member female receiving portion and said second frame member female receiving portion, wherein said male coupling portion solely spans between immediately adjacent side wall portions in said photovoltaic module array.
21. The photovoltaic module array of
22. The photovoltaic module array of
23. The photovoltaic module array of
25. The photovoltaic module array of
26. The photovoltaic module array of
27. The photovoltaic module array of
28. The photovoltaic module array of
29. The photovoltaic module array of to
31. The photovoltaic module array of
32. The photovoltaic module array of
34. The photovoltaic module array of
35. The photovoltaic module array of
37. The photovoltaic module array of
38. The photovoltaic module array of
41. The photovoltaic module array of
42. The photovoltaic module array of
43. The photovoltaic module array of
44. The photovoltaic module array of
45. The photovoltaic module array of
47. The photovoltaic module array of
48. The photovoltaic module array of
49. The photovoltaic module array of
50. The photovoltaic module array of
51. The photovoltaic module array of
52. The photovoltaic module array of
53. The photovoltaic module array of
55. The photovoltaic module array of
56. The photovoltaic module array of
57. The photovoltaic module array of
58. The photovoltaic module array of
59. The photovoltaic module array of
60. The photovoltaic module array of
61. The photovoltaic module array of
62. The photovoltaic module array of
63. The photovoltaic module array of
64. The photovoltaic module array of
65. The photovoltaic module array of
66. The photovoltaic module array of
67. The photovoltaic module array of
68. The photovoltaic module array of
69. The photovoltaic module array of
70. The photovoltaic module array of
71. The photovoltaic module array of
72. The photovoltaic module array of
73. The photovoltaic module array of
74. The photovoltaic module array of
75. The photovoltaic module array of
76. The photovoltaic module array of
77. The photovoltaic module array of
78. The photovoltaic module array of
79. The photovoltaic module array of
80. The photovoltaic module array of
81. The photovoltaic module array of
83. The photovoltaic module array of
85. The photovoltaic module array of
87. The photovoltaic module array of
88. The photovoltaic module array of
89. The photovoltaic module array of
91. The photovoltaic module array of
92. The photovoltaic module array of
93. The photovoltaic module array of
94. The photovoltaic module array of
95. The photovoltaic module array of
96. The photovoltaic module array of
97. The photovoltaic module array of
99. The photovoltaic module array of
100. The photovoltaic module array of
101. The photovoltaic module array of
102. The photovoltaic module array of
103. The photovoltaic module array of
105. The method for mounting photovoltaic modules to a structure of
106. The method for mounting photovoltaic modules to a structure of
107. The method for mounting photovoltaic modules to a structure of
109. The photovoltaic module array of
111. The photovoltaic module array of
112. The photovoltaic module array of
113. The photovoltaic module array of
114. The photovoltaic module array of
115. The photovoltaic module array of
116. The photovoltaic module array of
117. The photovoltaic module array of
119. The photovoltaic module array of
120. The photovoltaic module array of
121. The photovoltaic module array of
122. The photovoltaic module array of
123. The photovoltaic module array of
125. The photovoltaic module array of
126. The photovoltaic module array of
127. The photovoltaic module array of
128. The photovoltaic module array of
129. The photovoltaic module array of
133. The photovoltaic module array of
135. The photovoltaic module array of
137. The photovoltaic module array of claim 135 136 wherein said male coupling portion is laterally adjustable from said first position to said second position with said first frame member attached to said closest rafter, wherein said first frame member is attached to said closest rafter with a foot portion and said foot portion comprises a bolt penetrating said roof and attached to said closest rafter.
139. The photovoltaic module array of
140. The photovoltaic module array of
configuration further does not comprise separate foot-type pieces attached to said struts.
143. The photovoltaic module array of
147. The photovoltaic module array of
148. The photovoltaic module array of
149. The photovoltaic module array of
150. The photovoltaic module array of
151. The photovoltaic module array of
152. The photovoltaic module array of
153. The photovoltaic module array of
154. The photovoltaic module array of
|
The present application claims the benefit of the filing date of U.S. Provisional Patent Application Ser. No. 60/542,463, filed 5 Feb. 2004, and U.S. Provisional Patent Application Ser. No. 60/568,513, filed May 5, 2004.
Not applicable.
Not applicable.
The present invention relates generally to photovoltaic modules and associated frames and mounting hardware, and more particularly to an interlocking photovoltaic module mounting system that provides a one piece, integrated photovoltaic module frame that is directly mountable to a support structure and interlocks with separate adjoining photovoltaic module frames.
Photovoltaic (PV) modules and related mounting hardware are well known and in widespread use. The most common mass-produced PV modules in use today include a laminated portion, or PV laminate, and a frame portion, and are designed specifically to convert light into electricity. The PV laminate portion is for encapsulating solar cells in a substantially flat, weather-tight envelope comprising a laminated construction of various layers including but not limited to glass, clear plastic, encapsulant material (like EVA), active photovoltaic material, interconnecting conductors between solar cells, and a protective backsheet (like PVF film). Photovoltaic laminates are commonly manufactured today in rectilinear shapes like squares, rectangles, triangles, and trapezoids and, due to their fragile nature, are usually completely enclosed by a permanent, substantially rigid, glued-on frame portion which holds and protects the delicate edges of the PV laminate portion and provides a means of attaching the PV laminate to other objects without damaging the PV laminate. The combination of the PV laminate portion and the glued-on frame portion is referred to herein as a PV module or framed PV module. The present invention relates to integral glued-on frames for standard PV laminates as are currently being produced, and to the associated mounting hardware which attaches to the integral frames for the purpose of securing the PV module to a roof or support structure.
Since PV cells are typically optimized to produce electricity most efficiently from direct sunlight, most PV modules are mounted outdoors on roofs or support structures. There are two primary methods utilized to reliably mount PV cells in the sun: (a) attach a standard framed PV module to a building, vehicle, or structure, or (b) integrate an unframed, PV laminate into a standard type of building material like a roofing product (shingle, tile, etc.), curtain wall, or a skylight framing system such that the PV laminate forms a part of the weather-tight skin of the building.
The latter approach is commonly referred to as “Building Integrated PV” and is not the subject of this invention. While there have been a number of recent developments in the field of building integrated photovoltaics, there are still very few installations because of their complex building design issues, higher costs, difficult ventilation issues (PV cells operate more efficiently with adequate air flow for cooling), problematic servicing issues (when a cell, laminate, or wiring connection fails), and inability to work well in retrofit applications.
Physical mounting issues associated with the installation of standard, framed photovoltaic modules include the following:
Alignment: Most photovoltaic systems are mounted on roofs and or structures which are not truly flat or straight despite the original design on paper (due to inherent deflection and flaws in materials). PV module alignment (in all three dimensions) is the biggest issue that photovoltaic installers face. The glass on photovoltaic modules heavily amplifies the normal dips and peaks that exist on roofs and structures. If the PV array is not straight, it is very noticeable from the ground. Typical variance is 2″ maximum in any one section of a roof, though over a large roof, it may sag by up to 4″. Alignment issues have typically been dealt with during installation by attaching multiple framed PV modules to several struts or channels and then attaching the struts or channels to separate foot-type pieces which include adjustable height provisions like slots or holes at different heights. Since this technique results in significantly less adjustability points than if the alignment features were built into the PV module frame, the result is that PV installers frequently spend hours just working on the alignment and generally have to eventually settle for an array which is only partially aligned and in many cases substantially non-planar.
Grounding: The 2002 National Electric Code Article 690.43 allows grounding modules by either a grounding conductor (as is typically done) or by making electrical contact with a metal rack or support structure. Given the importance of grounding for lightning protection and personnel safety, most respectable installers run large #6 ground wires to every module—a very time consuming and tedious task which still doesn't properly ground the array unless ground wires are also run to all struts and metal supports (hardly ever done because it requires threading each strut). Using the mounting structure as the ground is generally not done, primarily because it is somewhat vague in the code and installers don't know how to make lasting “electrical contact” on a structure exposed to the weather (for example, standard, self-tapping screws are not allowed). This is a major problem area because most photovoltaic arrays are not properly grounded.
Wiring: The most common wiring mistake that happens is a missed or improperly connected electrical connector between two modules (almost all photovoltaic modules now come with quick-connect, plug-type connectors for simplified and fast wiring). Even though the development of plug-type connectors have improved intermodule wiring, getting back into the middle of an array to physically reach the wiring and fix a problem can be a time-consuming process, particularly with some mounting systems. In many cases the entire row of PV modules plus all of the large ground wires plus wire strapping must be removed just to locate the problem area. Most roof mounted PV modules are mounted within 6″ of a roof surface and in the same plane, so if wiring is beneath the modules or inside the module frames, it is not easily accessible once installed.
Connecting to rafters: It is generally accepted that photovoltaic modules should be secured to the rafters, or other primary structural members (purlins, joists, etc.) for structural integrity and prevention of leaks, as opposed to screwing modules down to the sheathing. A single, typical aluminum framed PV module can expand and contract under normal temperature fluctuations by as much as 1/16″ and a whole 60′ long array by as much as 1″. If the array is only secured into the roof sheathing, then expansion and contraction over time will break the seal and create roof leaks. This issue is typically handled by use of additional struts or channels (since module edges or mounting holes rarely line up with rafters).
Collection of debris: If there are trees around, then debris (and sometimes small animals) will collect beneath modules. Some contractors prefer mounting modules higher to allow easy access for cleaning.
Water damming: Anything long and horizontal directly mounted right down on a roof is a potential leak site because water will dam up there. Roof mounted PV modules must be off of the roof, or building integrated PV s must be utilized.
Module temperature: Photovoltaic modules become less efficient the hotter they get. It is therefore required to provide some airflow beneath the modules if more efficient operation is desired. While airflow is not generally a problem on ground mounted structures and racks, roof mounted PV arrays generally perform much better when elevated off of the roof surface (as opposed to being mounted directly down on the roof surface).
Penetrations: Despite the incredible reliability of advanced roof sealants, PV contractors always want to minimize the number of penetrations that have to be drilled through the roofing surface since they are the ones who are liable for roof leaks. This is typically addressed by the use of additional struts or channels which serve to span multiple PV modules thereby minimizing the number of penetrations required.
Ease of installation: Though most people agree that PV systems provide the most environmentally sound method of producing electricity, the high capital cost of PV systems still prevents most people from being able to afford them.
Aesthetic mounting issues associated with the installation of photovoltaic modules include the following:
Module height: The generally agreed upon aesthetic that most homeowners and architects subscribe to assumes that photovoltaic modules should be either not viewable from the street, or if they are, they should be close to the roof and stand out as little as possible. Given this scenario, any ability to see beneath modules is not good, and insistence on optimum orientation (for example turning and/or tilting modules toward south when in the northern hemisphere on a roof or structure which does not face south) should be avoided. Generally speaking, the PV array should be as close to the same plane as the surface to which it is being mounted. Stated differently: the photovoltaic array should look like one large skylight. While some systems are capable of locating PV modules close to the roof, they generally require some offset from the roof and thus do not look like a skylight. This issue is slightly complicated because heating, debris, and water damming concerns all require an offset, while aesthetic concerns dictate a minimization of height.
Gaps between modules: The tighter the spacing, the better in order to minimize the view of the roof between PV modules and attain a skylight-like appearance.
Hiding other gear: Mounting hardware (like rails, hold-downs, or feet), junction boxes, conduit, wiring, and balance-of-system gear is unsightly, and should be neatly tucked away somewhere out of sight, especially from the street.
Module and frame color: Most homeowners and architects prefer black or dark bronze since these colors tend to draw the least amount of attention to themselves.
Numerous attempts have been made to address these problems, but most have been in the context of costly and cumbersome non-integral mounting hardware, such as improved PV strut systems with specialized “hold-down” pieces that connect the frame portions of PV modules to the strut or by utilizing building integrated techniques. Though the additional hardware developments have provided solutions to enough of the problems to become the dominant technique, many of the issues discussed remain unaddressed. Building integrated solutions also solve some of the problems but come with a host of new problems as discussed above.
Prior art examples include U.S. Pat. No. 6,672,018 to Shingleton which discloses a PV laminate mounting method and clip wherein a solar collector array is formed of a plurality of PV laminates mounted on a frame made of support beams which may be sheet metal channel members. A butyl tape or other glazing material is applied between the back laminate of the solar panel and the beam. Clips are used to clamp the panels to the support beams. The clips have an upper portion that is generally T-shaped in profile, and a retainer in the form of a channel nut or bar, with a threaded hole that receives a bolt or similar threaded fastener. The retainer biases against the inwardly directed flanges of the channel support beam. Electrical wires and mechanical fasteners are concealed within the support beams.
While this design does eliminate costly and unnecessary materials, it creates a new series of problems: fragile edges of the laminate are exposed and likely to break during normal-installation and/or roof maintenance, the system does not provide any means for vertical adjustability and will therefore include rows of PV laminates at differing heights which will compromise the aesthetic appeal, use of adhesive directly on the laminate means that removal of a single or multiple laminates may be difficult or impossible in some cases, thereby greatly reducing the maintenance capabilities of the system, and since PV systems are typically designed to last at least 30 years, the use of an adhesive which is exposed to the weather and under extreme daily temperature fluctuations is of questionable long term reliability.
U.S. Pat. No. 6,606,830 to Nagao et al. describes a building integrated photovoltaic roof including a roof base member provided on a partition wall which partitions a building into an indoor portion and an outdoor portion, a solar cell module provided on the roof base member, and electric wiring with one end portion being electrically connected with the solar cell module. The end portion of the electric wiring is drawn to the outside from between the roof base member and the solar cell module and at an outdoor-sided position than an indoor side face of the partition wall.
U.S. Pat. No. 6,465,724 to Garvison et al. teaches a photovoltaic module framing system with integral electrical raceways wherein a multi-purpose photovoltaic module framing system is provided which combines and integrates the framing system with the photovoltaic electrical system. The frame includes at least one rail which receives fasteners to directly mount the module on or to a roof, wall, rack, beam, or other structure. The frame has portions to space the PV module above a roof, so as to form a gap between the module and the roof to channel water, as well as to provide an air passage to cool the module. The frame includes portions that hold the PV laminate and for mechanically mounting the frame to a support structure. The PV modules are also overlapping interleaving side rails between intermediate PV modules and outboard PV modules. The overlapping, interleaving side rails can have a regular or inverted C-shaped or bracket shaped cross section with: (a) overlapping upper side flanges, which extend laterally outwardly from upper portions of the modules, (b) overlapping lower side flanges, which provide feet that extend laterally outward from lower portions of the modules, and (c) an intermediate side bight which provides a side crossbar that extends between and integrally connects the overlapping upper and lower side flanges. The bottom exterior surfaces of the feet can abut against and engage the shingles of an asphalt shingle roof. The multi-purpose frames also have integral electrical raceways which conceal and protect most electrical components and wires. The reliable frames are specially constructed and arranged to permit easy access to output wires and do not require junction boxes. Ground clips can be directly connected to the convenient framing system.
While this attempt does solve a number of the problems outlined, it has the following major faults which have significantly impeded adoption: (a) the lag bolts go through pre-defined holes which means that the lag bolts in most cases will have to be screwed into the sheathing, missing rafters and therefore causing roof leaks; (b) there is no vertical adjustability so the sides which abut each other will be not be level with each other in most cases (since roofs are not flat) dramatically diminishing the aesthetic appeal of the PV array; (c) design is not backwardly compatible with the common inward facing flange integral frame and thus requires contractors to completely re-tool and learn a totally different product which impedes adoption of the invention; (d) can't remove a module from the middle if it breaks without painstakingly removing the whole row; (e) it requires three different types of extrusions per PV module which means triple the cost for tooling to manufacture the unit as compared to a design with only one type of extrusion; and (f) design only allows for PV modules mounted in portrait orientation (long dimension of the module running perpendicular to the roof ridge), yet most roofs can actually fit more PV modules in landscape orientation since the long dimension of the module is now parallel with the long dimension of the roof (most roofs are longer side to side than they are from ridge to gutter). Regarding the maintenance issues, if you do have to remove modules for service, you have to literally rip up all of the now dried roof sealant and pull lag bolts out of the sheathing—a very time consuming process. Or worse yet, if a module or wiring connection is suspected to be faulty right after initial installation (the most likely time to discover a problem), then modules will have to be removed exposing wet sealant and causing a mess. To avoid the sealant problems mentioned above, the only option would be to use an inferior type of sealant like butyl tape which no experienced PV contractor would want to do because of roof leak liability.
U.S. Pat. No. 6,414,237 to Boer discloses solar collectors, articles for mounting solar modules, and methods of mounting solar modules, including a solar collector comprising at least one solar module; at least one solar module frame which supports the solar module; and at least one solar module bracket comprising a profile channel engagement hook, the profile channel engagement hook comprising a neck portion and a foot portion, the foot portion having a foot portion cross-sectional area in a first plane which is larger than a cross-sectional area of the neck portion in a second plane parallel to the first plane. There is also provided a profile channel attached to or integral with a support structure, the profile channel having at least one opening, the profile channel engagement hook engaging the opening such that the neck portion extends through the opening. There are also provided methods of making such solar collectors and methods of mounting such solar collectors on support structures.
U.S. Pat. No. 6,336,304 to Mimura et al. describes a building integrated photovoltaic roof in which an upper-end engaging portion of a downstream roof panel is seam jointed with a lower-end engaging portion of an upstream roof panel, wherein at least the lower-end engaging portion has flexural rigidity enough to disengage the seam joint.
U.S. Pat. No. 6,269,596 to Ohtsuka et al. teaches a building integrated photovoltaic roof member and mounting method thereof wherein roof members are those fixed to the roof, each roof member being a combination solar cell and roof member having a solar cell element and a metal reinforcing member, wherein a metal member is provided below the combination solar cell and roof member or a metal member is provided along an adjacent portion between adjacent combination solar cell and roof members, wherein the metal member is electrically conductive to metal reinforcing members of plural combination solar cell and roof members and wherein the metal member is electrically grounded. Provided based on this structure are the roof members easy to install and excellent in the external view and electric safety.
U.S. Pat. No. 6,242,685 to Mizukami et al. discloses a structure and method of installing photovoltaic modules wherein a photovoltaic module has a cathode and anode acting as electrodes for collecting an output power. When the photovoltaic module is installed on a roof of a building for example, the cathode is located at a position higher than the anode.
U.S. Pat. No. 4,636,577 to Peterpaul describes a building integrated photovoltaic module for directly mounting to a roof surface comprising 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.
U.S. Pat. No. 4,392,009 to Napoli teaches a solar power module comprising an array of solar cells arranged on a flat panel, the panel being supported by a substantially rigid, easily assembled frame comprising spaced apart side channels that each interlock with adjacent end channels to form a single photovoltaic module.
U.S. Pat. No. 4,336,413 to Tourneux discloses a building integrated photovoltaic generating panel easily adaptable to a roof. The panel is equipped with a peripheral frame formed by the assembly of straight light alloy shapes. The particular form of these shapes makes possible the laying of adjacent panels with overlapping of the edges of the latter similar to roof tiles.
U.S. Pat. No. 4,246,892 to Waiche describes a solar thermal energy collector panel, having an absorber plate and a frame within which the absorber plate is mounted. The absorber plate is comprised of a plurality of absorber plate sections each having interlocking structure formed along both of their lateral edges. This interlocking structure forms a tubular passage when the interlocking structure of the adjacent absorber plate sections are matingly locked together. An elongated tubing member whose external diameter is slightly larger than the internal diameter of the tubular passage is frictionally captured within each of the tubular passages. The absorber plate sections are formed of extruded metal and they have a plurality of corrugated surface portions that provide the absorber plate sections with greater surface exposure and improved absorption angles to the sun throughout the day. The thickness of the absorber plate sections is the greatest where the interlocking structure of the adjacent absorber plate sections are matingly locked together, thereby providing a greater mass for heat conduction transfer from the absorber plate sections to the elongated tubing member. The interlocking structure formed on the lateral edges of the absorber plate sections comprise a fin portion whose configuration is basically that of a cylindrical tube that has been cut in half longitudinally. A recess is formed adjacent one edge of the fin portion and a protrusion is formed adjacent the opposite edge of the fin portion. The frame has a back plate, side frame members, end frame members, and a glass top panel.
The foregoing patents reflect the current state of the art of which the present inventor is aware. Reference to, and discussion of, these patents is intended to aid in discharging Applicant's acknowledged duty of candor in disclosing information that may be relevant to the examination of claims to the present invention. However, it is respectfully submitted that none of the above-indicated patents disclose, teach, suggest, show, or otherwise render obvious, either singly or when considered in combination, the invention described and claimed herein.
Furthermore, it is clear from the lack of prior art and number of problems which still remain unaddressed, that a definite need exists for a simple, cost-effective widely adaptable PV module mounting system which is integrated into the PV module frame design and which provides improved alignment capability, simplified and more reliable grounding, wiring which is hidden from view yet always accessible without removing a PV module, ability to always connect to the rafters, minimization of required penetrations in the roof, greater ease of installation, backward compatibility with inward facing flange framing systems, ability to connect PV module frame directly on top of a roof or mounting structure without the need for costly struts and hardware or expensive building integrated PV technologies, ability to remove any PV module in the array without having to remove others or pull out primary penetrating bolts, ability to easily add and remove optional items like debris screens and cosmetic flashings and caps, and improved appearance.
The method and apparatus for mounting photovoltaic modules of this invention provides a simple, cost-effective, complete mounting strategy for installing photovoltaic modules on most common roofs, structures, vehicles, and surfaces. The present invention provides an interlocking photovoltaic module mounting system that provides a one piece, integrated photovoltaic module frame portion that is directly mountable to a support structure and interlocks with separate adjoining photovoltaic module frame portions. The inventive apparatus includes a frame member for enclosing the perimeter of a photovoltaic laminate and which is made of substantially similar construction on all four sides; the frame member having a top portion, bottom portion, inside surface, and outside surface, the inside surface including a recess for capture of the laminate. The frame member outside surface includes at least one interlocking means for adjoining a first frame member of a first PV module with a second frame member on an adjacent, second PV module to form a planar array.
A preferred embodiment of the invention includes an interlocking mechanism comprising at least one C-shaped channel portion on the outside surface of the PV module frame member with the opening oriented parallel to the plane of the substantially flat top solar cell covering, and which interlocks with an identical adjoining C-shaped channel portion of an adjoining PV module frame member through the use of a separate male coupling member which is inserted into the C-shaped portions of the two adjoining modules. The adjacent C-shaped channel portions do not overlap each other. The male coupling member may also serve as a means for providing electric ground continuity between PV modules.
The frame member bottom portion may also include at least one height-adjustable mounting foot portion which is also adjustable in a direction perpendicular to the primary structural elements which are supporting the PV array, such as the rafters of a roof, and which provides a means for attaching the frame member to a structural member, and at least one height adjustable leveling foot portion which provides a means for supporting the frame member and adjustably, vertically aligning individual PV modules with adjoining PV modules to form a substantially planar PV array.
The inventive system thus provides an interlocking, self-grounding, and self-aligning framing structure for each module, which provides three-dimensional adjustability, allows simple connection to the rafters, minimizes penetrations in the roof, allows access to wiring interconnects without removing modules, does not require expensive strut hardware, utilizes a non-overlapping, interlocking mechanism which allows for all PV modules in an array to rest in the same plane instead of having consecutive modules at slightly different angles due to the overlapping nature of an interleaved connection, and which in some embodiments allows removal of single PV modules from the middle of the array.
The inventive system also provides an attractive appearance by having a low profile, with no gaps between modules, and no visible hold-downs or hardware, plus optional cosmetic flashings for screening visible edges of the array and optional cosmetic caps for covering the small gaps that may occur, or in one embodiment, for bridging between two adjacent PV modules to cover the wiring. Additional benefits are further described herein.
It is therefore an object of the present invention to provide a new and improved frame apparatus for photovoltaic modules.
It is another object of the present invention to provide a new and improved interlocking photovoltaic module mounting system.
A further object or feature of the present invention is a new and improved interlocking, self-grounding, and self-aligning framing structure for photovoltaic modules.
An even further object of the present invention is to provide a novel method for mounting photovoltaic modules.
Other novel features which are characteristic of the invention, as to organization and method of operation, together with further objects and advantages thereof will be better understood from the following description considered in connection with the accompanying drawing, in which preferred embodiments of the invention are illustrated by way of example. It is to be expressly understood, however, that the drawing is for illustration and description only and is not intended as a definition of the limits of the invention. The various features of novelty which characterize the invention are pointed out with particularity in the claims annexed to and forming part of this disclosure. The invention resides not in any one of these features taken alone, but rather in the particular combination of all of its structures for the functions specified.
There has thus been broadly outlined the more important features of the invention in order that the detailed description thereof that follows may be better understood, and in order that the present contribution to the art may be better appreciated. There are, of course, additional features of the invention that will be described hereinafter and which will form additional subject matter of the claims appended hereto. Those skilled in the art will appreciate that the conception upon which this disclosure is based readily may be utilized as a basis for the designing of other structures, methods and systems for carrying out the several purposes of the present invention. It is important, therefore, that the claims be regarded as including such equivalent constructions insofar as they do not depart from the spirit and scope of the present invention.
Further, the purpose of the Abstract is to enable the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office and the public generally, and especially the scientists, engineers and practitioners in the art who are not familiar with patent or legal terms or phraseology, to determine quickly from a cursory inspection the nature and essence of the technical disclosure of the application. The Abstract is neither intended to define the invention of this application, which is measured by the claims, nor is it intended to be limiting as to the scope of the invention in any way.
Certain terminology and derivations thereof may be used in the following description for convenience in reference only, and will not be limiting. For example, words such as “upward,” “downward,” “left,” and “right” would refer to directions in the drawings to which reference is made unless otherwise stated. Similarly, words such as “inward” and “outward” would refer to directions toward and away from, respectively, the geometric center of a device or area and designated parts thereof. References in the singular tense include the plural, and vice versa, unless otherwise noted.
The invention will be better understood and objects other than those set forth above will become apparent when consideration is given to the following detailed description thereof. Such description makes reference to the annexed drawings wherein:
Referring to
Interlocking mechanism 24L, 24R may consist of C-shaped or female channel portions 26L, 26R on the outside surfaces 22L, 22R of each of the PV module frame members with the opening oriented parallel to the plane of the substantially flat top solar cell 14, through the use of a separate male coupling member 28 which is inserted into the C-shaped portions of the two adjoining modules. Thus, the male coupling portion (coupling member 28) positions the first and second frame members above a support structure (see frames 12L, 12R above roof 13 in
The frame members may be constructed as an extrusion, with all portions run full length except the top of the female channel portion at the ends, and various slots and holes which may be punched out after the extrusion is run. The frame members may include an inward flange 32 for backward compatibility with existing mounting systems. Screw holes 34 may be used to connect frame pieces together at the module corners.
The frames may include an optional cosmetic cap 36 for covering the small gaps that may occur, or in one embodiment, for bridging between two adjacent PV modules to create a wireway.
Inventive features of the present apparatus include, but are not limited to, the following:
Self-locking—module frames securely interlock together to form a completely connected array structure. In the preferred embodiment of the invention this interlocking is achieved by a female channel integrated into all four sides of the photovoltaic module frame which mates with a removable male coupling strip. The coupling strip is releasable from the top via a break in the extrusion thereby allowing removal of any single module without requiring removal of previous modules in the row, unlike previous attempts at interlocking functionality which used an overlapping technique instead of the coupling technique described herein. Another embodiment of the invention achieves release of the coupling strip from the top by utilizing spring loaded pins and a release handle.
Self-grounding—interlocking mechanisms provide a solid “electrical contact” (as required by the NEC) which is protected from the weather so it will last. One simple ground wire to one module grounds the whole array and its support structure. Another embodiment includes provision for a ground screw to tap the coupling strips if required for certain jurisdictions.
Self-aligning—as modules are snapped into place, they are automatically aligned on the side where the interlock is being made. Small leveling legs are provided on the opposing side of each module to fine tune the vertical alignment before securing it to the roof or structure. Straight, substantially planar arrays are simple even on dramatically swooping roofs.
Accessible yet hidden wiring—as each module goes down, the quick-connect electrical connectors are plugged together then tucked into a slot which is accessible from the top—allowing future repair of each module interconnection without removing any modules (note: installers can carefully crawl out on top of the modules to fix wiring on a module out in the middle). Thus, all wiring is still accessible, yet carefully hidden from view. Another embodiment includes a snap-on cover which hides the wiring.
Strutless design—while a separate optional piece can be added to allow connection to all standard struts on the market, the inventive apparatus is capable of mounting photovoltaic modules to most roof surfaces and structures without the need for expensive and time consuming strut at all.
Minimizes penetrations—while all other direct mount, strutless mounting systems require more penetrations than a strut mount, the inventive apparatus distributes the load more evenly across the array area and typically requires less penetrations. This unlikely result is obtained by reallocating two critical mounting hardware functions: 1) resisting the downward pull of gravity, and 2) resisting the upward pull of wind. All other mounting systems combine these two functions into a single portion, most commonly a foot-type portion. A preferred embodiment of the inventive apparatus however separates these two functions into two different types of feet: leveling feet which are not fastened to the roof or structure and primarily resist gravity, and carefully spaced mounting feet which are fastened to the roof and primarily resist windloads.
Works on most roof types—The inventive apparatus is compatible with all common roofs and surfaces found including: composition shingle, tile, shake, tar & gravel, membrane, standing seam, trellis or other wooden structure, ground mount metal structure, and many others. A preferred embodiment includes the use of circular foot members which allow standard circular pipe flashings to be used.
Flexible orientation—The inventive apparatus works with Landscape and Portrait orientations and photovoltaic module rows can be installed in any order. However, the inventive apparatus does favor Landscape orientation which allows for fewer penetrations and, in most cases on sloped roofs, will yield a slightly higher kW/s.f. of roof area. Strut mounts, on the other hand, tend to favor portrait orientation which frequently results in less modules for the same roof. This happens because most roofs are wider east to west than they are tall (from ridge to gutter), so orienting the long dimension of the photovoltaic module parallel with the long dimension of the roof surface increases the likelihood of a better fit.
Rafter connection—unlike any other mounting system available, the inventive apparatus includes simple integral adjustability in X, Y, and Z so connection to rafters is always possible. Set one dimension, then quickly adjust the other two with a single, easily accessible bolt. Fumbling with nuts, washers, and lock washers or losing hardware as it rolls down the roof, as is typically the case when mounting PV modules, is not required since a single wrench operates all integral bolts.
Adjustable height—a preferred embodiment allows module height off of the roof or structure to be fully adjustable (no discrete holes) from 0″ to approximately 2.5″ (depending on module frame depth) so that the correct height for each situation can be chosen depending on the water damming, aesthetic, and debris issues on site.
No gaps—Interlocking frames eliminate all gaps between modules and wire access ports are not discernible from the ground because there is a black frame right behind them.
Easier obstacle avoidance—unlike strut systems which require ending the strut and starting a new row every time you run across a roof vent or skylight, the inventive apparatus easily accommodates small obstructions by simply leaving out a module.
Snap-on options—Cosmetic flashings can be snapped right into the frames along visible sides of the array to eliminate problematic viewing angles beneath the modules, or in heavily treed areas, debris screens can be snapped on forming a complete skirt around the array. Other embodiments include snap-on pre-stressed sheet metal pieces to receive conduit, snap-on junction boxes and wiring combiner boxes, and snap-on caps between PV modules to cover wiring.
Backward compatible—The inventive apparatus can be manufactured in a way which is completely backward compatible with all standard photovoltaic frames and mounting techniques. Almost all photovoltaic modules come with a C-shaped frame that includes mounting holes on an inward facing bottom flange. In addition to all of its other features, the inventive apparatus can include the exact same holes in the same relative place.
Low Cost—Unlike other attempts to integrate more features into the PV module frame, the inventive apparatus includes frame members which are extruded from the exact same die, thereby minimizing manufacturing tooling costs. Low part count and simple installation also save PV contractor time & money.
Removing single modules—A preferred embodiment includes coupling members which are removable from the top thereby allowing removal of single PV modules no matter what location in the PV array (and without requiring the seals to be broken between module and the roof, if applicable).
Thus, the invention may be characterized as a photovoltaic module comprising a photovoltaic laminate having a perimeter; a frame member for enclosing the perimeter of the photovoltaic laminate, the frame member having a top portion, bottom portion, inside surface, and outside surface, the inside surface including a recess for capture of said laminate, and the outside surface including at least one interlocking means for connection to a frame member of an adjacent photovoltaic module so that the photovoltaic laminate is coplanar with the photovoltaic laminate of the adjacent photovoltaic module. In addition, the photovoltaic module frame member comprises individually disengageable interlocking mechanisms for the photovoltaic modules in a formed array.
Alternatively, the invention may be characterized as a method for mounting photovoltaic laminates to a roof comprising the steps of: enclosing the perimeter of each photovoltaic laminate in a frame member having a top portion, bottom portion, inside surface, and outside surface, the inside surface including a recess for capture of the photovoltaic laminate; and interlocking one frame member outside surface to the complementary outside surface of an adjacent frame member to form a planar array of photovoltaic laminates on the roof.
The above disclosure is sufficient to enable one of ordinary skill in the art to practice the invention, and provides the best mode of practicing the invention presently contemplated by the inventor. While there is provided herein a full and complete disclosure of the preferred embodiments of this invention, it is not desired to limit the invention to the exact construction, dimensional relationships, and operation shown and described. Various modifications, alternative constructions, changes and equivalents will readily occur to those skilled in the art and may be employed, as suitable, without departing from the true spirit and scope of the invention. Such changes might involve alternative materials, components, structural arrangements, sizes, shapes, forms, functions, operational features or the like.
Therefore, the above description and illustrations should not be construed as limiting the scope of the invention, which is defined by the appended claims.
Patent | Priority | Assignee | Title |
Patent | Priority | Assignee | Title |
3630253, | |||
4047516, | Jan 17 1975 | Pipe joint for radiator element of thin material | |
4112922, | Mar 23 1976 | All Sunpower, Inc. | Solar energy collector |
4146785, | Feb 13 1978 | Sunpower Systems Corporation | Sun-tracking control system for solar collector |
4154223, | Feb 27 1975 | Modular construction for solar heat collector | |
4155346, | Aug 04 1977 | Solar energy collector | |
4215677, | Aug 29 1977 | Rocky Mountain Sheet Metal Company, Inc. | Solar collector panel assembly |
4217825, | Jun 30 1978 | M.A.N.-Roland Druckmaschinen Aktiengesellschaft | Assembly for clamping and tightening a blanket over a blanket cylinder in a printing press |
4219011, | Dec 01 1977 | KNOOS, STELLAN | Modular solar energy collector systems |
4246892, | May 17 1978 | Solar energy collector panel | |
4271825, | Jun 09 1978 | Phenol Engineering S.a.r.l. | Solar energy collector |
4308858, | Oct 29 1979 | Solar energy collecting apparatus and methods | |
4310182, | Jun 15 1979 | SEALED AIR CORPORATION, PARK 80 PLAZA EAST, SADDLE BROOK, NJ 07662 A CORP OF DE | Internal couplings for plastic solar collectors and the like |
4312325, | Mar 17 1980 | Red Bud Industries, Inc. | Solar heating system |
4336413, | Sep 10 1979 | R.T.C. La Radiotechnique Compelec | Solar panels |
4353356, | Jul 03 1979 | SEALED AIR CORPORATION, PARK 80 PLAZA EAST, SADDLE BROOK, NJ 07662 A CORP OF DE | Solar collector units with mounting frame |
4371139, | Dec 31 1979 | SUNSEARCH, INC , A CORP OF CONN | Adjustable mounting rack for solar collectors |
4392009, | Oct 16 1981 | AMOCO ENRON SOLAR | Solar power module |
4429872, | Aug 05 1981 | Foul or base lines for athletic activities | |
4505261, | Dec 19 1983 | Modular passive solar heating system | |
4570408, | Jun 10 1983 | COOPERATIVA OPERAI MOBILIERI - SOCIETA COOPERATIVA A RESPONSABILITA LIMITATA ALSO KNOWN AS C O M | Beam assembly |
4636577, | Aug 29 1983 | Thomas & Betts Corporation | Solar panel module and support therefor |
4691818, | Jan 27 1986 | MARTIN SPROCKET & GEAR, INC | Concealed drive coupling for use with modular screw conveyor |
4718185, | Nov 07 1986 | Solar Signage, Inc.; SOLAR SIGNAGE, INC , A CORP OF TX | Modular solar generating system |
4966631, | Mar 13 1989 | BP SOLAR, INC | Support for photovoltaic arrays |
5046791, | Apr 18 1989 | Extrusion frame and components therefor | |
5127762, | Mar 03 1989 | OMS INVESTMENTS, INC | Connector assembly |
5134827, | Dec 16 1988 | Radially expandable edge connector system | |
5143556, | Mar 13 1989 | BP SOLAR, INC | Support for photovoltaic arrays |
5144780, | Mar 25 1991 | GIELING, TOM | Portable structure |
5164019, | Jul 31 1991 | SUNPOWER CORP | Monolithic series-connected solar cells having improved cell isolation and method of making same |
5164020, | May 24 1991 | BP SOLAR INTERNATIONAL INC | Solar panel |
5203135, | Mar 05 1991 | DEUTSCHE BANK AG, NEW YORK BRANCH | Connection for hollow structural members |
5205694, | May 29 1991 | TOPURA CO., LTD. | Self-tapping screw |
5232518, | Nov 30 1990 | United Solar Systems Corporation | Photovoltaic roof system |
5316592, | Aug 31 1992 | Sunpower Corporation | Solar cell roofing assembly |
5333602, | Sep 09 1993 | Solar collector assembly | |
5338369, | Feb 16 1993 | Roof-integratable photovolatic modules | |
5460660, | Jul 21 1993 | PHOTON ENERGY, INC D B A GOLDEN PHOTON, INC | Apparatus for encapsulating a photovoltaic module |
5497587, | Nov 19 1992 | Hirai Engineering Corporation | Roof system utilizing a solar cell |
5505788, | Jun 29 1994 | Sunpower Corporation | Thermally regulated photovoltaic roofing assembly |
5571338, | Nov 26 1993 | SANYO ELECTRIC CO , LTD | Photovoltaic module and a photovoltaic apparatus |
5596981, | Jul 19 1993 | Solar device and method for assembly | |
5628580, | Apr 19 1995 | Cooper Technologies Company | Splice system |
5706617, | Nov 19 1992 | Hirai Engineering Corporation | Roof system utilizing a solar cell |
5746029, | Nov 21 1996 | Tile roof structure for supporting a heavy load without damage to the tile | |
5746839, | Apr 08 1996 | Sunpower Corporation | Lightweight, self-ballasting photovoltaic roofing assembly |
5787653, | Nov 14 1995 | FUJI ELECTRIC CO , LTD | Sheet-shaped solar module mounting structure |
5960790, | Dec 22 1997 | Modular solar energy collection system | |
6061978, | Jun 25 1997 | Sunpower Corporation | Vented cavity radiant barrier assembly and method |
6093884, | Nov 06 1997 | Canon Kabushiki Kaisha | Solar cell module, solar cell array having the module, power generation apparatus using the array, and inspection method and construction method of the apparatus |
6105317, | Sep 24 1997 | Matsushita Electric Works, Ltd. | Mounting system for installing an array of solar battery modules of a panel-like configuration on a roof |
6111189, | Jul 28 1998 | BP SOLAR INTERNATIONAL INC | Photovoltaic module framing system with integral electrical raceways |
6148570, | Feb 05 1998 | Sunpower Corporation | Photovoltaic building assembly with continuous insulation layer |
6201180, | Apr 16 1999 | Omnion Power Engineering Corp.; OMNION POWER ENGINEERING CORP | Integrated photovoltaic system |
6207889, | Jun 30 1998 | Canon Kabushiki Kaisha | Solar battery modules, installation method thereof, and solar power generator using such modules |
6242685, | Mar 25 1999 | Kaneka Corporation | Structure and method of installing photovoltaic module |
6269596, | Feb 05 1997 | Canon Kabushiki Kaisha | Roof member and mounting method thereof |
6274402, | Dec 30 1999 | Sunpower Corporation; Honda Giken Kogyo Kabushiki Kaisha | Method of fabricating a silicon solar cell |
6295918, | Oct 15 1999 | WHITE KNIGHT FLUID HANDLING INC | Suspended diaphragm |
6313395, | Apr 24 2000 | Sunpower Corporation | Interconnect structure for solar cells and method of making same |
6336304, | Aug 30 1996 | Canon Kabushiki Kaisha | Horizontal-roofing roof and mounting method thereof |
6337283, | Dec 30 1999 | Sunpower Corporation; Honda Giken Kogyo Kabushiki Kaisha | Method of fabricating a silicon solar cell |
6360491, | Jan 14 2000 | Roof support system for a solar panel | |
6370828, | Jul 19 1999 | Regen Energiesysteme GmbH | Mounting system for solar panel |
6387726, | Dec 30 1999 | Sunpower Corporation; Honda Giken Kogyo Kabushiki Kaisha | Method of fabricating a silicon solar cell |
6414237, | Jul 14 2000 | Heritage Power LLC | Solar collectors, articles for mounting solar modules, and methods of mounting solar modules |
6423568, | Dec 30 1999 | Sunpower Corporation; Honda Giken Kogyo Kabushiki Kaisha | Method of fabricating a silicon solar cell |
6465724, | Jul 28 1998 | BP SOLAR INTERNATIONAL INC | Photovoltaic module framing system with integral electrical raceways |
6495750, | Jul 10 2001 | TOTALENERGIES DISTRIBUTED GENERATION USA, LLC; TOTALENERGIES ONETECH | Stabilized PV system |
6501013, | Jul 10 2001 | TOTALENERGIES DISTRIBUTED GENERATION USA, LLC; TOTALENERGIES ONETECH | Photovoltaic assembly array with covered bases |
6523320, | May 30 1997 | MAMMOET EUROPE B V | Hoisting device for big loads |
6534702, | Nov 13 1997 | Canon Kabushiki Kaisha | Solar battery module arranging method and solar battery module array |
6534703, | Jul 10 2001 | Sunpower Corporation | Multi-position photovoltaic assembly |
6568873, | Jul 20 1999 | ALUMET MANUFACTURING, INC | In-line connector for window spacer frame tubing |
6570084, | Jul 10 2001 | TOTALENERGIES DISTRIBUTED GENERATION USA, LLC; TOTALENERGIES ONETECH | Pressure equalizing photovoltaic assembly and method |
6586668, | Feb 05 1999 | Sunpower Corporation | Electric vehicle with photovoltaic roof assembly |
6606830, | Nov 27 1997 | Canon Kabushiki Kaisha | Solar cell-bearing roof and method for installing solar cell-bearing roof |
6634077, | Jul 20 2001 | Affordable Building Systems | Combined connecting and alignment method for composite fiber building panels |
6670541, | Oct 31 2000 | Canon Kabushiki Kaisha | Solar battery, solar generating apparatus, and building |
6672018, | Oct 12 2001 | Sunpower Corporation | Solar module mounting method and clip |
6675545, | Dec 14 1999 | VALINGE INNOVATION AB | Connecting system for surface coverings |
6675580, | Jun 29 1999 | Sunpower Corporation | PV/thermal solar power assembly |
6676326, | Jun 25 2001 | Square lamp post insertional conjoinment structure | |
6722357, | Aug 15 2001 | Sunpower Corporation | Fixed angle solar collector arrangement |
6761008, | Dec 14 1999 | VALINGE INNOVATION AB | Connecting system for surface coverings |
6784360, | Nov 16 2000 | Kaneka Corporation | Photovoltaic module, solar-power generating apparatus, a support member for supporting photovoltaic modules, and method of installing a solar-power generating apparatus |
6809251, | Jul 10 2001 | TOTALENERGIES DISTRIBUTED GENERATION USA, LLC; TOTALENERGIES ONETECH | Inclined photovoltaic assembly |
6809253, | Jul 10 2001 | TOTALENERGIES DISTRIBUTED GENERATION USA, LLC; TOTALENERGIES ONETECH | Pressure-equalizing PV assembly and method |
6935623, | Sep 14 2001 | CRANE FENCING SOLUTIONS, LTD | Fence assembly with connectors |
6959517, | May 09 2003 | JPMORGAN CHASE BANK, N A | Photovoltaic panel mounting bracket |
6993917, | Jul 28 2003 | LG Electronics Inc; SUNPOWER, INC | Coupling for heat transfer member |
7043884, | Feb 14 2002 | CRONOS 2000, S L | Cladding system |
7172184, | Aug 06 2003 | MAXEON SOLAR PTE LTD | Substrate carrier for electroplating solar cells |
7297867, | Jul 12 2000 | Kaneka Corporation | Solar battery module, installation structure for solar battery module, roof with power generating function of the installation structure, and method of installing solar battery module |
7328534, | Feb 20 2002 | Sunpower Corporation | Shingle system |
7339110, | Apr 10 2003 | MAXEON SOLAR PTE LTD | Solar cell and method of manufacture |
7406800, | May 18 2004 | ANDALAY SOLAR, INC | Mounting system for a solar panel |
7435134, | Mar 09 2006 | Sunpower Corporation | Photovoltaic module mounting clip with integral grounding |
7435897, | Apr 11 2002 | U S DEPARTMENT OF ENERGY | Apparatus and method for mounting photovoltaic power generating systems on buildings |
7634875, | Jan 10 2005 | Mounting Systems GmbH | Mounting system with threaded sliding block |
7774998, | Mar 15 2004 | MAXEON SOLAR PTE LTD | Ventilated photovoltaic module frame |
7866098, | May 18 2004 | Andalay Solar, Inc. | Mounting system for a solar panel |
7915519, | Dec 13 2005 | Yanegijutsukenkyujo Co. Ltd. | Solar battery module frame body |
7987641, | May 18 2004 | Andalay Solar, Inc. | Mounting system for a solar panel |
8109048, | Feb 11 2008 | TESLA, INC | Apparatus for forming and mounting a photovoltaic array |
20020046506, | |||
20020078991, | |||
20020112435, | |||
20020193001, | |||
20030010372, | |||
20030015636, | |||
20030015637, | |||
20030070368, | |||
20030175071, | |||
20030201009, | |||
20040063265, | |||
20040163338, | |||
20040179892, | |||
20050115176, | |||
20050199278, | |||
20050257453, | |||
20060005875, | |||
20060042680, | |||
20060118163, | |||
20070074755, | |||
20070079865, | |||
20070102036, | |||
20070144575, | |||
20070151594, | |||
20070157963, | |||
20080000173, | |||
20080029144, | |||
20090025314, | |||
20090078299, | |||
20090095280, | |||
20100147362, | |||
D374169, | Jun 09 1995 | Krueger International, Inc. | Connector for a pair of furniture post sections |
D387655, | Jun 09 1995 | Krueger International | Connector for a pair of furniture post sections |
D510315, | Apr 22 2003 | Sunpower Corporation | Inclined photovoltaic assembly |
D511576, | Mar 10 2003 | Sunpower Corporation | Photovoltaic shade system |
D516017, | Apr 15 2005 | Sunpower Corporation | Sloped side deflector for solar panel |
D519444, | Apr 15 2005 | Sunpower Corporation | Side and end deflector for solar panel |
D562225, | Mar 23 2007 | Sunpower Corporation | Support base for solar collector assembly |
D564958, | Mar 23 2007 | Sunpower Corporation | Support base for solar collector assembly |
D565505, | Mar 23 2007 | Sunpower Corporation | Tracking solar collector assembly |
DE102005002828, | |||
DE19906464, | |||
DE2970348, | |||
DE3111969, | |||
DE4444439, | |||
EP1783440, | |||
GB2391704, | |||
JP10159284, | |||
JP10176403, | |||
JP10266499, | |||
JP10317619, | |||
JP10317621, | |||
JP11002004, | |||
JP11002011, | |||
JP11006262, | |||
JP11040835, | |||
JP11222991, | |||
JP2000150947, | |||
JP2000345664, | |||
JP2001148493, | |||
JP2001210853, | |||
JP2002141541, | |||
JP2002294957, | |||
JP2003227207, | |||
JP242449, | |||
JP4052367, | |||
JP47023570, | |||
JP47057885, | |||
JP57077856, | |||
JP57087561, | |||
JP58133945, | |||
JP59191748, | |||
JP6069527, | |||
JP641156, | |||
JP7202242, | |||
JP8296311, | |||
WO2005116359, | |||
WO2007103882, | |||
WO2010074701, |
Executed on | Assignor | Assignee | Conveyance | Frame | Reel | Doc |
May 18 2009 | WEST, JOHN RAYMOND | HIGH SUN TECHNOLOGY, INC | ASSIGNMENT OF ASSIGNORS INTEREST SEE DOCUMENT FOR DETAILS | 038480 | /0049 | |
Jul 30 2009 | HIGH SUN TECHNOLOGY, INC | ZEP SOLAR, INC | CHANGE OF NAME SEE DOCUMENT FOR DETAILS | 038622 | /0448 | |
Sep 22 2011 | Tesla, Inc. | (assignment on the face of the patent) | / | |||
Jan 31 2014 | ZEP SOLAR, INC | Zep Solar LLC | MERGER AND CHANGE OF NAME SEE DOCUMENT FOR DETAILS | 038480 | /0101 | |
Jan 31 2014 | ZOOM ACQUISITION LLC | Zep Solar LLC | MERGER AND CHANGE OF NAME SEE DOCUMENT FOR DETAILS | 038480 | /0101 | |
May 15 2014 | WEST, JOHN RAYMOND | ZEP Solar, LLC | ASSIGNMENT OF ASSIGNORS INTEREST SEE DOCUMENT FOR DETAILS | 032932 | /0007 | |
Apr 22 2015 | Zep Solar LLC | SolarCity Corporation | ASSIGNMENT OF ASSIGNORS INTEREST SEE DOCUMENT FOR DETAILS | 035496 | /0341 | |
Nov 21 2016 | SolarCity Corporation | TESLA MOTORS, INC | MERGER SEE DOCUMENT FOR DETAILS | 048811 | /0608 | |
Feb 01 2017 | TESLA MOTORS, INC | TESLA, INC | CHANGE OF NAME SEE DOCUMENT FOR DETAILS | 050160 | /0061 |
Date | Maintenance Fee Events |
Oct 19 2017 | PTGR: Petition Related to Maintenance Fees Granted. |
Mar 09 2021 | M1553: Payment of Maintenance Fee, 12th Year, Large Entity. |
Date | Maintenance Schedule |
Nov 19 2022 | 4 years fee payment window open |
May 19 2023 | 6 months grace period start (w surcharge) |
Nov 19 2023 | patent expiry (for year 4) |
Nov 19 2025 | 2 years to revive unintentionally abandoned end. (for year 4) |
Nov 19 2026 | 8 years fee payment window open |
May 19 2027 | 6 months grace period start (w surcharge) |
Nov 19 2027 | patent expiry (for year 8) |
Nov 19 2029 | 2 years to revive unintentionally abandoned end. (for year 8) |
Nov 19 2030 | 12 years fee payment window open |
May 19 2031 | 6 months grace period start (w surcharge) |
Nov 19 2031 | patent expiry (for year 12) |
Nov 19 2033 | 2 years to revive unintentionally abandoned end. (for year 12) |