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).
Claims23
1-42. (canceled)
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;
- 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.
46-47. (canceled)
65-69. (canceled)
Dependencies are inferred from the claim text.