Photovoltaic module carrier
AssigneeSunLink Corporation
InventorsTodd Pelman, Martin N. Seery, Jeff Hartnett
Life of this patent
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Abstract
A novel PV module carrier and methods of use provide protection for PV modules during transportation, field handling, and assembly with racking systems. The carrier contains elements of a racking system to allow for quicker installation in the field. The PV module carrier reduces manufacturing costs by eliminating the need for frame elements, while reducing field installation time and labor cost for system installation.
Claims24
An apparatus for transporting at least one photovoltaic module comprising:
- a carrier base;
- a plurality of nesting guides formed on a first and second edge of the carrier base;
- and
- a plurality of location guides formed on the carrier base and aligned generally parallel to an edge of the carrier base;
- wherein the nesting guides and location guides form at least one opening on the carrier base for receiving a photovoltaic module.
A photovoltaic module carrier assembly comprising:
- a carrier base;
- a plurality of nesting guides formed on a first and second edge of the carrier base;
- a plurality of location guides formed on the carrier base and aligned generally parallel to an edge of the carrier base;
- wherein the nesting guides and location guides form at least two openings on the carrier base for receiving photovoltaic modules;
- a photovoltaic module positioned in each opening on the carrier base;
- a plurality of mounting structure elements attached to the photovoltaic modules;
- and
- a plurality of fasteners attaching the modules to the carrier base.
A method for transporting photovoltaic modules comprising:
- placing a plurality of modules on a carrier, the carrier including alignment guides;
- attaching a plurality of photovoltaic modules to the carrier;
- and
- attaching a plurality of mounting structure elements to the plurality of modules.
A method of installing photovoltaic modules comprising:
- placing a photovoltaic module carrier on a mounting structure;
- detaching the carrier from at least one module;
- removing the module carrier;
- and
- attaching the at least one module to the mounting structure.
Dependencies are inferred from the claim text.