US 2012/0234378 A1 · Pivot-Fit Connection Apparatus and System for Photovoltaic Arrays

Abstract

An apparatus and system for quickly and easily assembling PV modules into a PV array in a sturdy and durable manner. In some embodiments, the PV modules may have a grooved frame where the groove is angled into the frame with respect to the planar surface of the modules. Various components may engage within the angled groove to assemble the PV modules into the PV array using what may be referred to as a pivot-fit connection between the components and angled groove. Other embodiments may operate with PV modules having frames without angled grooves as by use of wraparound brackets.

Claims5

Dependent claims

A coupling for connecting four PV modules together, said PV modules each comprising a frame, said coupling comprising:

a body;
a first engaging portion adapted for engagement with a first and second PV modules of said four PV modules;
and
a second engaging portion adapted for engagement with a third and fourth PV modules of said four PV modules;
wherein said first engaging portion comprises an upper portion and a lower portion, said upper portion movable relative to said lower portion to disengage said first engaging portion from said third PV module.

2 more elements

Dependencies are inferred from the claim text.

Facts

Application

13/316,453Filed 9 Dec 2011

Priority

2 Jul 2010

Published

20 Sep 2012

Term ends

Not estimatedThe source records don’t support an estimate.

Classification17 codes

F24S 25/20
Arrangement of stationary mountings or supports for solar heat collector modules: peripheral frames for modules
F24S 25/61
Fixation means, e.g. fasteners, specially adapted for supporting solar heat collector modules: for fixing to the ground or to building structures
F24S 25/613
For fixing to the ground or to building structures: in the form of bent strips or assemblies of strips; Hook-like connectors; Connectors to be…
F24S 25/632
For fixing modules or their peripheral frames to supporting elements: side connectors; Base connectors

Family

Application12/830,250Continuation in part · filed 2 Jul 2010

Application61/421,621Us provisional application · filed 9 Dec 2010

Application61/511,295Us provisional application · filed 25 Jul 2011

Application13/316,453Continuation in part

US 2011/0000519 A1Published application

US 8,991,114 B2Related patent

US 9,816,731 B2Related patent

US 2012/0234378 A1This patent

From the US filing history. Foreign family members aren’t listed.

Pivot-Fit Connection Apparatus and System for Photovoltaic Arrays

Life of this patent

Pivot-Fit Connection Apparatus and System for Photovoltaic Arrays

Life of this patent

Abstract

Claims5