Interlocking frame for solar panels
AssigneeOrigami Solar, Inc.
InventorsEric L. Hafter, John C. Patton
Life of this patent
Estimating the term…
Abstract
A frame precursor structure (201) is provided for use in forming a frame (101) that encloses at least a portion of a panel (190). The frame precursor structure may include a framework material having a first end (210) and a second end (220), the first and second ends defining a lengthwise dimension. A lengthwise fold (102) may define an intersection of a frame sidewall (103) with a bottom flange (104). A first corner bend precursor axis (212) on the frame sidewall may define the interface of a first frame section (201-1) with a second frame section (201-2). The sidewall at the first corner bend precursor axis (212) may be bendable along its height axis. The bottom flange may include a first notch (212N) at the first corner bend precursor axis (212).
Claims21
A frame for at least partially enclosing or supporting a solar panel having a first panel edge and a second panel edge meeting at a first panel corner, the frame comprising:
- a first frame section comprising:
- a first framework material;
- a first bottom flange formed from the first framework material and provided at a base of the first frame section, the first bottom flange comprising one of a first locking element and a first opening;
- a first frame sidewall formed from the first framework material and provided at an outer portion of the frame section, the first frame sidewall characterized by a height extending from the first bottom flange;
- and
- a first panel containment structure at an upper portion of the first frame sidewall,
- the first panel containment structure comprising a first lower shelf;
- and
- a second frame section adjacent the first frame section, the second frame section comprising:
- a second framework material;
- a second bottom flange formed from the first framework material and provided at a base of the second frame section, the second bottom flange comprising the other of a first locking element and a first opening, wherein the first opening is designed to receive the first locking element for forming a first corner interlocking feature between the first and second frame sections and for restricting multidirectional movement between the first bottom flange and the second bottom flange in at least two axes of a plane of the first and second bottom flanges when locked;
- a second frame sidewall formed from the second framework material and provided at an outer portion of the first frame section, the second frame sidewall characterized by a height extending from the second bottom flange;
- and
- a second panel containment structure at an upper portion of the second frame sidewall, the second panel containment structure comprising a second lower shelf.
Dependencies are inferred from the claim text.