Frame weep hole modified frames for earth-oriented solar panels

Abstract

Utility-scale photovoltaic panels or modules for flat-on-ground mounting or mounting without a support structure between the module and the ground that have been adapted by including air vents or weep hole in a portion of the module frame. In operation, the vent holes allow air under the modules to escape if the module array is exposed to flooding. Letting under-module air to move through the weep holes lowers the buoyancy of the modules to prevent flood exposure from floating the modules. Also, weep holes or air vents allow air pressure equalization between the top surface of the module and the region under the PV module such as low pressures generated by heavy wind passing across the face of the array.

Dependencies are inferred from the claim text.