Devices, methods, and systems for installation of photovoltaic systems
OwnerJoseph TOMLINSONinventor
Life of this patent
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Abstract
Devices, methods, and systems for installing photovoltaic systems are provided that are simple and easy to install, and that minimize the number of separate components or parts needed. Such devices, methods, and systems ensure seamless mechanical and electrical connectivity by their design, and minimize the time and effort expended by tradespersons or other technicians, especially in dangerous environments.
Claims26
A system for securing an energy capturing/storage device to a surface, comprising:
- a rail, affixed to the surface and comprising a groove disposed on at least one face;
- and
- a shuttle, comprising:
- a fastener, securely seated within the groove of the rail;
- at least one intermediate component, comprising a means for electrically interconnecting the energy capturing/storage device to the rail or a component disposed therein, and securely interconnected to the fastener;
- and
- a device attachment, securely holding the energy capturing/storage device in place, securely interconnected to at least one intermediate component, and comprising a lever or other means allowing a user to selectively detach the energy capturing/storage device from the system.
A shuttle for securing an energy capturing/storage device to a surface, comprising:
- a fastener, adapted to be securely seated within a groove disposed on a face of a rail;
- at least one intermediate component, comprising a means for electrically interconnecting the energy capturing/storage device to the rail or a component disposed therein, and securely interconnected to the fastener;
- and
- a device attachment, securely holding the energy capturing/storage device in place, securely interconnected to at least one intermediate component, and comprising a lever or other means allowing a user to selectively detach the energy capturing/storage device from the shuttle.
A method for positioning and securing a solar panel on a surface, comprising:
- (a) interconnecting the solar panel to a shuttle, wherein the shuttle is securely interconnected to a groove in a rail affixed to the surface and positioned at or near one end of the rail;
- (b) sliding the shuttle within the groove to a desired position on the rail;
- and
- (c) fixing the shuttle in place at the desired position on the rail.
An apparatus for positioning and securing a solar panel on a surface, adapted and/or configured to receive a solar panel, interconnect the solar panel to a shuttle that is securely interconnected to a groove in a rail affixed to the surface, slide the shuttle within the groove to a desired position on the rail, and fix the shuttle in place at the desired position on the rail.
Dependencies are inferred from the claim text.