EP2313930A2 - Système de montage pour fixer un dispositif photovoltaïque et son procédé d'utilisation - Google Patents
Système de montage pour fixer un dispositif photovoltaïque et son procédé d'utilisationInfo
- Publication number
- EP2313930A2 EP2313930A2 EP09713400A EP09713400A EP2313930A2 EP 2313930 A2 EP2313930 A2 EP 2313930A2 EP 09713400 A EP09713400 A EP 09713400A EP 09713400 A EP09713400 A EP 09713400A EP 2313930 A2 EP2313930 A2 EP 2313930A2
- Authority
- EP
- European Patent Office
- Prior art keywords
- substrate
- photovoltaic device
- mounting system
- adhesive
- configuration
- Prior art date
- Legal status (The legal status is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the status listed.)
- Withdrawn
Links
- 238000000034 method Methods 0.000 title claims abstract description 39
- 230000008569 process Effects 0.000 claims abstract description 25
- 239000000758 substrate Substances 0.000 claims description 132
- 239000000853 adhesive Substances 0.000 claims description 105
- 230000001070 adhesive effect Effects 0.000 claims description 105
- 230000000295 complement effect Effects 0.000 claims description 4
- 238000009434 installation Methods 0.000 description 72
- 239000010410 layer Substances 0.000 description 41
- 239000000463 material Substances 0.000 description 20
- 238000000576 coating method Methods 0.000 description 12
- 239000011248 coating agent Substances 0.000 description 11
- 239000012528 membrane Substances 0.000 description 9
- 239000003094 microcapsule Substances 0.000 description 8
- 239000000203 mixture Substances 0.000 description 6
- 230000015556 catabolic process Effects 0.000 description 5
- 238000006731 degradation reaction Methods 0.000 description 5
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- 241000238631 Hexapoda Species 0.000 description 4
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- 238000010276 construction Methods 0.000 description 3
- 230000000593 degrading effect Effects 0.000 description 3
- 230000007613 environmental effect Effects 0.000 description 3
- 230000007246 mechanism Effects 0.000 description 3
- 239000010409 thin film Substances 0.000 description 3
- 244000025254 Cannabis sativa Species 0.000 description 2
- 229920002943 EPDM rubber Polymers 0.000 description 2
- FACXGONDLDSNOE-UHFFFAOYSA-N buta-1,3-diene;styrene Chemical compound C=CC=C.C=CC1=CC=CC=C1.C=CC1=CC=CC=C1 FACXGONDLDSNOE-UHFFFAOYSA-N 0.000 description 2
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- 239000002245 particle Substances 0.000 description 2
- 230000000149 penetrating effect Effects 0.000 description 2
- 239000004575 stone Substances 0.000 description 2
- 229920000468 styrene butadiene styrene block copolymer Polymers 0.000 description 2
- 239000000126 substance Substances 0.000 description 2
- 229920002397 thermoplastic olefin Polymers 0.000 description 2
- XLYOFNOQVPJJNP-UHFFFAOYSA-N water Substances O XLYOFNOQVPJJNP-UHFFFAOYSA-N 0.000 description 2
- CURLTUGMZLYLDI-UHFFFAOYSA-N Carbon dioxide Chemical compound O=C=O CURLTUGMZLYLDI-UHFFFAOYSA-N 0.000 description 1
- 241000283984 Rodentia Species 0.000 description 1
- 238000004026 adhesive bonding Methods 0.000 description 1
- 230000008901 benefit Effects 0.000 description 1
- 125000000484 butyl group Chemical group [H]C([*])([H])C([H])([H])C([H])([H])C([H])([H])[H] 0.000 description 1
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- 239000004814 polyurethane Substances 0.000 description 1
- 239000004800 polyvinyl chloride Substances 0.000 description 1
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- 239000002023 wood Substances 0.000 description 1
Classifications
-
- H—ELECTRICITY
- H02—GENERATION; CONVERSION OR DISTRIBUTION OF ELECTRIC POWER
- H02S—GENERATION OF ELECTRIC POWER BY CONVERSION OF INFRARED RADIATION, VISIBLE LIGHT OR ULTRAVIOLET LIGHT, e.g. USING PHOTOVOLTAIC [PV] MODULES
- H02S20/00—Supporting structures for PV modules
- H02S20/20—Supporting structures directly fixed to an immovable object
- H02S20/22—Supporting structures directly fixed to an immovable object specially adapted for buildings
-
- F—MECHANICAL ENGINEERING; LIGHTING; HEATING; WEAPONS; BLASTING
- F24—HEATING; RANGES; VENTILATING
- F24S—SOLAR HEAT COLLECTORS; SOLAR HEAT SYSTEMS
- F24S25/00—Arrangement of stationary mountings or supports for solar heat collector modules
- F24S25/60—Fixation means, e.g. fasteners, specially adapted for supporting solar heat collector modules
- F24S25/61—Fixation means, e.g. fasteners, specially adapted for supporting solar heat collector modules for fixing to the ground or to building structures
-
- F—MECHANICAL ENGINEERING; LIGHTING; HEATING; WEAPONS; BLASTING
- F24—HEATING; RANGES; VENTILATING
- F24S—SOLAR HEAT COLLECTORS; SOLAR HEAT SYSTEMS
- F24S25/00—Arrangement of stationary mountings or supports for solar heat collector modules
- F24S25/60—Fixation means, e.g. fasteners, specially adapted for supporting solar heat collector modules
- F24S2025/6001—Fixation means, e.g. fasteners, specially adapted for supporting solar heat collector modules by using hook and loop-type fasteners
-
- F—MECHANICAL ENGINEERING; LIGHTING; HEATING; WEAPONS; BLASTING
- F24—HEATING; RANGES; VENTILATING
- F24S—SOLAR HEAT COLLECTORS; SOLAR HEAT SYSTEMS
- F24S25/00—Arrangement of stationary mountings or supports for solar heat collector modules
- F24S25/60—Fixation means, e.g. fasteners, specially adapted for supporting solar heat collector modules
- F24S2025/601—Fixation means, e.g. fasteners, specially adapted for supporting solar heat collector modules by bonding, e.g. by using adhesives
-
- Y—GENERAL TAGGING OF NEW TECHNOLOGICAL DEVELOPMENTS; GENERAL TAGGING OF CROSS-SECTIONAL TECHNOLOGIES SPANNING OVER SEVERAL SECTIONS OF THE IPC; TECHNICAL SUBJECTS COVERED BY FORMER USPC CROSS-REFERENCE ART COLLECTIONS [XRACs] AND DIGESTS
- Y02—TECHNOLOGIES OR APPLICATIONS FOR MITIGATION OR ADAPTATION AGAINST CLIMATE CHANGE
- Y02B—CLIMATE CHANGE MITIGATION TECHNOLOGIES RELATED TO BUILDINGS, e.g. HOUSING, HOUSE APPLIANCES OR RELATED END-USER APPLICATIONS
- Y02B10/00—Integration of renewable energy sources in buildings
- Y02B10/10—Photovoltaic [PV]
-
- Y—GENERAL TAGGING OF NEW TECHNOLOGICAL DEVELOPMENTS; GENERAL TAGGING OF CROSS-SECTIONAL TECHNOLOGIES SPANNING OVER SEVERAL SECTIONS OF THE IPC; TECHNICAL SUBJECTS COVERED BY FORMER USPC CROSS-REFERENCE ART COLLECTIONS [XRACs] AND DIGESTS
- Y02—TECHNOLOGIES OR APPLICATIONS FOR MITIGATION OR ADAPTATION AGAINST CLIMATE CHANGE
- Y02E—REDUCTION OF GREENHOUSE GAS [GHG] EMISSIONS, RELATED TO ENERGY GENERATION, TRANSMISSION OR DISTRIBUTION
- Y02E10/00—Energy generation through renewable energy sources
- Y02E10/40—Solar thermal energy, e.g. solar towers
- Y02E10/47—Mountings or tracking
-
- Y—GENERAL TAGGING OF NEW TECHNOLOGICAL DEVELOPMENTS; GENERAL TAGGING OF CROSS-SECTIONAL TECHNOLOGIES SPANNING OVER SEVERAL SECTIONS OF THE IPC; TECHNICAL SUBJECTS COVERED BY FORMER USPC CROSS-REFERENCE ART COLLECTIONS [XRACs] AND DIGESTS
- Y02—TECHNOLOGIES OR APPLICATIONS FOR MITIGATION OR ADAPTATION AGAINST CLIMATE CHANGE
- Y02E—REDUCTION OF GREENHOUSE GAS [GHG] EMISSIONS, RELATED TO ENERGY GENERATION, TRANSMISSION OR DISTRIBUTION
- Y02E10/00—Energy generation through renewable energy sources
- Y02E10/50—Photovoltaic [PV] energy
Definitions
- This invention relates generally to securing a photovoltaic device. More particularly, the invention relates to a mounting system for securing a photovoltaic device, wherein the mounting system is also configured so the photovoltaic device is non-destructively detachable.
- a photovoltaic device can now be supplied as a roll of flexible thin film that can be unrolled and installed onto a structural surface that can have a substantially flat area, a generally planar configuration formed with structural members, particles or a coating, or a curvature that accommodates operation of the installed photovoltaic device.
- Some photovoltaic device installations involve a rigid frame that is joined with the photovoltaic device or otherwise utilized to mount the photovoltaic device onto a structure, for example a roof of a building or house.
- the frame is secured by penetrating the structure (e.g. drilling holes) so the frame can be bolted or screwed to the structure.
- the photovoltaic device itself may be configured such that a portion of it is screwed or bolted directly to the structure.
- the installations generally require more components to secure the photovoltaic device to the structure, thereby increasing the cost of installing the photovoltaic device.
- the photovoltaic device installations discussed above are likely not capable of being installed and operated again because they are more likely to experience damage during disassembly.
- removal of a photovoltaic device secured by penetrating the structure will likely involve repair to the structure after the photovoltaic device is removed. For example, a knife may be used to quickly remove a section of material secured to a roof surface, but that process severely damages the material and is likely to result in damage to the roof surface.
- the installation configuration of the photovoltaic device may also be dictated by the configuration of the particular structure, environmental conditions at the structure, and or building codes particular to the location of the structure. Many commercial and residential building codes require that structure, and objects mounted to the structure such as photovoltaic devices, withstand predetermined loads such as weight, winds, and jarring loads (e.g. caused by an earthquake) without detrimental effects to the structure and to other nearby property or persons.
- the inventors herein have recognized a need for a mounting system configured for securing a photovoltaic device to structure, wherein the mounting system is also configured so the photovoltaic device can thereafter be non- destructively detached from the structure and installed and operated again without the need for repairing the photovoltaic device.
- a mounting system for securing a photovoltaic device to a surface is provided in accordance with an exemplary embodiment.
- the mounting system includes a mounting member for securing an inactive area of the photovoltaic device to the surface.
- the mounting member is configured so the inactive area is non- destructively detachable from the surface and the photovoltaic device is not made incapable of operation due the detachment process.
- a mounting system for securing a photovoltaic device to a surface is provided in accordance with another exemplary embodiment.
- the mounting system includes a plurality of spaced ballast members positioned on an inactive area of the photovoltaic device.
- the ballast members urge the inactive area against the surface.
- the ballast members are non-destructively detachable from the inactive area and the photovoltaic device is not made incapable of operation due the detachment process.
- a method for securing a photovoltaic device to a surface includes positioning a mounting member along an unexposed side of a substrate having the photovoltaic device secured to an exposed side of the substrate.
- the method further includes securing the mounting member to the surface.
- the mounting member is configured so the substrate is non-destructively detachable from the surface and the photovoltaic device is not made incapable of operation due the detachment process.
- Figure 1 is a plan view of a photovoltaic device installation system illustrating a mounting system for securing photovoltaic devices to a surface in accordance with an exemplary embodiment of this disclosure
- Figure 2 is a cross-sectional view of the photovoltaic device installation system of Figure 1 along the viewing line 2-2;
- Figure 3 is a cross-sectional view of a photovoltaic device installation system in accordance with an alternative exemplary embodiment of this disclosure
- Figure 4 is a plan view of a photovoltaic device installation system illustrating an alternative mounting system for securing photovoltaic devices to a surface in accordance with another exemplary embodiment of this disclosure
- Figure 5 is a plan view of a photovoltaic device installation system illustrating another alternative mounting system for securing photovoltaic devices to a surface in accordance with another exemplary embodiment of this disclosure
- Figure 6 is a cross-sectional view of the photovoltaic device installation system of Figure 5 along the viewing line 6-6;
- Figure 7 is a cross-sectional view of a photovoltaic device installation system in accordance with another alternative exemplary embodiment of this disclosure
- Figure 8 is a plan view of a photovoltaic device installation system illustrating yet another alternative mounting system for securing photovoltaic devices to a surface in accordance with another exemplary embodiment of this disclosure.
- a mounting system for securing a photovoltaic device against a surface of a structure.
- Structures contemplated herein include various dwellings such as residential houses, commercial buildings, and shelters. Additionally, it is contemplated that structures used for purposes other than human habitat and configured to accommodate a photovoltaic device installation are within the scope of this disclosure such as but not limited to reservoirs, water tanks, portable structures and covers.
- the surface of a structure as contemplated herein can have a generally smooth planar configuration, an irregular surface such as a corrugated panel, a surface formed from a plurality of granular particles like stone or gravel, dirt or a roughened coated surface arranged over an area to form a generally level plane against which the photovoltaic device is mounted thereto.
- the surface upon which the photovoltaic device is mounted thereover includes gravel, earth such as dirt, stones or grass, wherein a substrate is positioned over the surface and beneath the photovoltaic device.
- the photovoltaic device is mounted to a surface that has a radius of curvature that accommodates operation of the photovoltaic device.
- Non-limiting surface materials contemplated herein are wood, metal, gravel, dirt or earth, various coatings, and polymeric materials, etc.
- the embodiments disclosed herein are directed to a mounting system configured so that a minimum of installation tools or no installation tools are utilized to install the photovoltaic device against the surface.
- the mounting system is also configured to be detached from the surface in a non-destructive manner so that the photovoltaic device can thereafter be installed and operated without the need for repairing the photovoltaic device.
- the photovoltaic device mounting system is ideal for residential and commercial applications where one desires to remove a photovoltaic device and thereafter install and operate it at another location without making the photovoltaic device is incapable of operation due the detachment process.
- a non-destructively detachable photovoltaic device may also be desirable for commercial or military applications, where, for example, a photovoltaic device may be relocated to generate electrical energy for communication devices.
- the mounting system is further configured to maintain the photovoltaic device against the surface of a structure subjected to a predetermined load condition.
- the mounting system can be utilized for photovoltaic device installations having a horizontal or non-horizontal orientation.
- the mounting system can be configured to maintain the photovoltaic device against the structure during environment conditions, including extreme weather conditions like high winds, storms, earthquakes, etc.
- the mounting system is configured to secure a photovoltaic device against a surface having a slope such that the photovoltaic device installation does not displace due to the affect of gravity. It is also contemplated that embodiments of the mounting system can be configured to detachably secure, in a non-destructive manner, a wide variety of photovoltaic devices, including framed and unframed photovoltaic constructions.
- the mounting system includes at least one mounting member positioned along an unexposed side of a substrate or an inactive area of the photovoltaic device, wherein the mounting member utilizes a detachable interference-fit type fastener capable of repeated engagement.
- the mounting member is a snap-fit button type fastener.
- the mounting member extends along a length of the substrate and the mounting member is an elongated male portion that engages a complimentary grooved portion with an interference fit upon engagement.
- the mounting system has a unique arrangement of mounting members for securing the photovoltaic device subjected to a predetermined load condition.
- a portion of the mounting members are configured and positioned along the photovoltaic device to maintain an area of the photovoltaic device against the surface during a certain load condition compared to the remaining mounting members that do not experience the same load condition. It is contemplated herein that unique arrangements of non-destructively detachable mounting systems for securing photovoltaic devices are possible for a wide variety of installation applications and load conditions.
- the mounting systems contemplated herein allow for modifying or replacing an arrangement of the mounting system to suit a change in the device design, load condition, locality or photovoltaic installation orientation. For example, a smaller number or otherwise reduced configuration of mounting members may replace the previous mounting system arrangement when the photovoltaic installation is removed from a location of high loading and installed at another location of lower loading, since the mounting system is non-destructively detachable.
- the mounting systems disclosed herein may be utilized to secure photovoltaic devices against the surface without any intervening material between the photovoltaic device and the surface.
- the mounting systems may be configured to secure the photovoltaic device against the surface where another interface or intermediate layer is disposed between the photovoltaic device and the surface or between the photovoltaic device and the inactive area or substrate.
- the photovoltaic device is secured to an intermediate layer, substrate or membrane that is detachably secured against the surface.
- a substrate or membrane is considered an inactive area of the photovoltaic device and an integral part thereof.
- an intermediate layer such as a coating, is secured to the surface and not intended to be removed when the photovoltaic device is removed.
- an interface layer, intermediate layer, membrane, coating, or other member can, as non-limiting examples, be utilized as an insulating layer, a barrier layer or a structural member.
- various exemplary embodiments of mounting systems are described for use with various embodiments of photovoltaic device installations.
- the elements and members shown in the referenced Figures are not drawn to scale and are shown as such for clarity purposes and not intended to convey limiting information such as shape, orientation, dimensions, weight, etc.
- the installation system 10 includes a plurality of spaced photovoltaic devices 12a, 12b, 12c, and 12d secured to a substrate 14, and a mounting system 16.
- the substrate 14 can comprise any material suitable for the particular application, including the environment, the type of photovoltaic devices, and the configuration of the structure the devices are installed onto.
- the substrate is a thin membrane such as a cured Ethylene Propylene Diene Monomer (C-EPDM) rubber membrane having a thickness of 0.045 to 0.060 inches commercially available and listed as Standard Rubberguard EPDM II.
- C-EPDM cured Ethylene Propylene Diene Monomer
- the membrane is a Polyvinylchloride (PVC) having a thickness of 0.048 to 0.050 inches commercially available and listed as Sarnafil S327, G410, Johns Manville SR50; or a Thermoplastic Polyolefin (TPO) having a thickness of 0.045 to 0.060 inches commercially available and listed as Genflex White; and a Styrene Butadiene Styrene (SBS) Modified Bituminous multiple-ply with smooth and/or granular surface texture or the like.
- the substrate may include a reinforcement material such as but not limited to polyester, glass fiber, or other material or combinations thereof.
- the mounting system 16 is configured to secure the photovoltaic devices and the substrate to a surface 18, as shown in Figure 2.
- the mounting system 16 includes an adhesive portion 20 positioned about the perimeter of the substrate 14, as shown in Figure 1.
- the adhesive portion 20 is utilized to fixedly secure the substrate 14 to the surface 18.
- the adhesive portion 20 is further configured so a portion of the substrate is non-destructively detachable from the surface 18 and the photovoltaic devices are not made incapable of operation due to the detachment process.
- the adhesive portion 20 is a double-sided tape applied to the lower surface of the substrate 14 and the surface 18 to detachably secure the two together.
- a heat welding process is utilized to bond the adhesive portion between the substrate and the surface.
- the adhesive portion 20 is a rubberized or butyl composition.
- An example of such adhesive is commercially available under the designation Sikal_astomer®-68 from the Sika Corporation of Madison Heights, Michigan.
- the adhesive portion is configured so it can be detached from the substrate, intermediate layer, or from an inactive area of the photovoltaic devices in a non- destructive manner and not render the photovoltaic devices inoperable due the detachment process.
- the adhesive portion when heat is applied to an area of the exposed side of the substrate (generally opposite the adhesive portion), the adhesive portion is configured to degrade so that the substrate can be non-destructively detached from the surface.
- the substrate is non-destructively detached from the surface by heating a portion of the exposed side of the substrate to 100 0 C for approximately five minutes to degrade the adhesive portion so a portion of the substrate or the entire substrate can then be non-destructively detached from the surface with a force of about five pounds.
- an area of the exposed substrate is cooled to a substantially cold temperature, for example utilizing dry ice, to degrade the adhesive portion so a portion of the substrate is non-destructively detachable from the surface without making the photovoltaic device incapable of operation due to the detachment process.
- the adhesive portion is configured to degraded when a solution is brought into contact with the adhesive portion so a portion of the substrate is non-destructively detachable from the surface without making the photovoltaic device incapable of operation due to the detachment process.
- the substrate, interface layer, intermediate layer, or inactive area is non-destructively detachable, for example, where they are not severed or punctured in order to detach them from the surface.
- slight degradation of the substrate, layer or inactive area may result when detaching them from the surface.
- the substrate degradation for example, peeling or cracking, is not to a degree to render the photovoltaic device inoperable.
- the adhesive portion is configured so that remaining adhesive can then be substantially removed from the substrate. Degradation and removal of the adhesive may employ such processes as peeling, scraping, or application of a solvent or other solution, heat, cooling or combinations thereof.
- the composition of the adhesive and/or the means of degrading the adhesive portion will be such that the substrate will require no further treatment to remove adhesive from the substrate after the process utilized to degrade the adhesive to detach the substrate from the surface.
- a texturing process like sanding, rubbing or the like will be applied to the substrate area of adhesive to enhance a later application of adhesive.
- the adhesive portion has a two-part configuration where their structural state/composition changes for controlling when adhesive bonding occurs between the parts.
- a first part of the adhesive is applied to a bottom side (or unexposed side) of the substrate (or inactive area of the photovoltaic device), where at that point the first part of the adhesive is configured to not adhere on contact with certain material, for example, to skin, or to certain packaging material.
- the second part of the adhesive is applied to the surface of the structure to which the substrate (or the inactive area) will be secured thereto.
- the first and second parts of the adhesive are configured to interact with each other on contact such that they securely bond together to secure the substrate to the surface, thereby securing the photovoltaic device against the surface.
- the first and/or second parts of the adhesive include a configuration of microcapsules containing an adhesive or a portion thereof such that when the substrate is disposed over the structure, thereby sandwiching the first and second adhesive parts between them, the adhesive microcapsules fracture so its contents are activated in a manner to bond the substrate to the structure.
- the adhesive microcapsules can be held in a coating disposed over the substrate or the surface such that the contents within the microcapsule interact with the coating to form the bonding adhesive, or the coating can be configured for only holding the microcapsules and allowing the contents within the microcapsules to bond the substrate to the surface upon fracture, dissolve, of the microcapsules,
- the adhesive parts including microcapsules if desired, can be used between portions of the Photovoltaic device and the substrate.
- the first and second parts of the adhesive are activated to bond together when energy is applied to the area generally at or near the adhesive portion.
- the applied energy can be thermal energy, such as the application of heat at the area or cooling the area, for instance like the examples discussed hereinabove.
- the installation is configured such that electrical energy is applied to the area to activate the first and second parts of the adhesive to bond together.
- a chemical is applied to the area to activate the first and second parts of the adhesive to bond together.
- the bonded first and second parts of the adhesive are also configured to be non- destructively detachable, for example by utilizing the methods discussed hereinabove.
- a photovoltaic system 30 is illustrated.
- the installation system 30 includes one or more photovoltaic devices 32a, 32b, 32c, and 32d secured to an interface layer 34, a substrate 36 and a mounting system 38.
- the interface layer 34 is disposed between the photovoltaic devices and the substrate 36.
- the mounting system 38 may be similar to the mounting system 20 of photovoltaic installation 10 and incorporate the alternative embodiments discussed above.
- the interface layer aids in managing a characteristic of the photovoltaic installation for example, a thermal, chemical, electrical, combustible, insect control, etc.
- the interface layer provides a thermal barrier between the photovoltaic device and the surface.
- a locality may have a building code requirement for a structure to have a minimum amount of thermal resistance (R-value).
- An interface layer with a high R-value insulates more compared to a layer with a lower R-value.
- a polyurethane interface layer is disposed between the substrate and the surface.
- the interface layer may be configured to protect the surface and/or the substrate and photovoltaic devices from moisture. In another instance, the interface layer may be configured to provide protection from insects. And in yet another embodiment, the interface layer may be configured to provide a flame-barrier, with a fire rating or classification, between the photovoltaic devices and the surface such that a flame is slowed or prevented from crossing the barrier.
- the interface layer is a coating applied to the surface where the inactive area or the substrate is detachably secured to the coating.
- the interface layer is a coating that is applied to the unexposed side of the inactive area, substrate, or intermediate layer, wherein the adhesive portions are then attached to the coating. In such an embodiment, the adhesive portion is removable, but a portion of the coating may also be removed from inactive area, substrate, or intermediate layer without degrading the photovoltaic devices to render them inoperable.
- the installation system 40 includes spaced photovoltaic devices 42a, 42b, 42c, and 42d secured to a substrate 44, and a mounting system 46.
- the mounting system 46 includes a plurality of spaced adhesive portions 48, wherein the adhesive portions secure the substrate 44 to a surface of a structure.
- the adhesive portions are each configured so a portion of the substrate is non-destructively detachable from the surface and the photovoltaic devices are not made incapable of operation due the detachment process.
- the adhesive portions and their arrangement can be configured to satisfy a particular environment, the configuration of the structure, a building code requirement particular to the location, load conditions, etc, for securing the photovoltaic devices against the surface.
- the adhesive portions have a unique configuration to maintain the substrate and the photovoltaic devices against the surface during a predetermined load condition.
- a specific number of adhesive portions, each having substantially the same surface area and composition are selected to maintain the substrate and the photovoltaic devices against the surface during a predetermined wind uplift condition.
- a certain number of adhesive portions have a unique composition, contact surface area with the substrate, and/or orientation with respect to the photovoltaic installation and structure compared to the remaining adhesive portions utilized to maintain the substrate and the photovoltaic devices against the surface.
- a double row of adhesive portions are positioned at one or more locations along the substrate for securing the substrate and the photovoltaic devices against the surface.
- a greater number of adhesive portions can be positioned at that portion of the installation near the northern direction, compared to the remaining adhesive portions utilized to secure the substrate to the surface.
- a subset of adhesive portions can also have a higher strength composition, a different spacing between adhesive portions, and/or a larger contact surface area positioned near the location of higher loads compared to the remaining adhesive portions.
- a double-row of spaced adhesive portions is positioned near the location of high loading, whereas a single row of spaced adhesive portions is utilized at the other areas of the installation between the substrate and the surface.
- at least a double-row of adhesive portions is used uniformly about the perimeter of the photovoltaic device installation with or without adhesive portions at other interior positions of the installation.
- the substrate 44 includes a plurality of spaced cutouts 50, as shown in Figure 4.
- the cutouts can aid to reduce pressure that tends to lift the photovoltaic device installation from the surface, say for example, when the installation is subjected to high wind load conditions.
- the cutouts may help to reduce substrate degradation due to material stresses during an installation condition, for example, from over stretching a portion of the substrate.
- the cutouts may help to reduce substrate degradation due to material stresses that occur after installation, for example, from thermal cycling.
- the number of cutouts utilized will depend on the specific environment, installation configuration, load conditions, etc. that the installation is designed to accommodate.
- the installation system may incorporate with the membrane a pressure equalization valve to offset a detrimental effect associated with a wind uplift load condition.
- alternative embodiments of the installation system 40 may include substrate or membrane materials discussed hereinabove with respect to the installation system 10 of Figure 1 and may also utilize an interface layer as discussed with respect to the installation system 30 of Figure 3.
- the substrate, inactive layer or other intermediate layer may include portions structurally reinforced or otherwise modified to accommodate mounting members (like the adhesive portions), electrical components, fastening components, valves and other system components.
- a mounting system that includes detachable mounting members or ballast members to secure the photovoltaic device against the surface.
- the ballast members and their arrangement can be configured to satisfy a particular environment, the configuration of the structure, a building code requirement particular to the location, load conditions, etc.
- a ballast member can have a configuration with a unique material, shape, size and a mass to suit the application.
- Some non-limiting examples are: low profile elongated high-mass members, circular shapes, blocks, two-piece members having a lower mass portion over a high-mass portion, and perforated members.
- the mounting system utilizes ballast members configured to secure a photovoltaic device against a surface having a substantially horizontal orientation or a slope so that the photovoltaic device installation or a component thereof does not displace due to the affect of gravity.
- the installation system 60 includes a photovoltaic device 62 and a mounting system 64.
- the mounting system 64 includes of a plurality of spaced ballast members 66.
- the ballast members are configured to detachably secure the photovoltaic device 62 against a surface 68 as shown in Figure 6.
- the surface can, for example, be a building surface like a roof surface or a cover for a structure as discussed hereinabove.
- the photovoltaic device 62 includes an active area 70 and an inactive area 72 joined together.
- the active area is the region of the photovoltaic device that is configured for converting incident light into electricity.
- the active area 70 may include a thin-film double or triple-junction solar cell construction.
- the inactive area 72 is the region of the photovoltaic device that is not utilized to convert incident light into electricity.
- the photovoltaic device is manufactured so that the inactive area is not a separate member but is an integral portion extending from the active area.
- the inactive area has a thin film construction of similar materials that extends in a direction away from the active area.
- the inactive area is constructed of a material different from the active area.
- the inactive area has a different thickness than the active area.
- portions of the inactive area are structurally reinforced or otherwise modified to accommodate the ballast members or fastening components utilized for detachably securing the ballast members.
- the inactive area may include cutouts as discussed hereinabove with respect the installation system 40 of Figure 4.
- the ballast members 66 are configured to be quickly and fixedly secured to the inactive area of the photovoltaic device to urge the inactive area (and the joined active area of the photovoltaic device) against the surface. Additionally, the ballast members are configured so they can be quickly and easily detached from the inactive area in a non-destructive manner and the photovoltaic device is not made inoperable due the detachment process. In exemplary embodiments, the ballast members and the inactive area are configured so that a minimum number of tools are utilized for assembly or removal of the ballast members with the inactive area.
- the ballast members and the inactive area are configured so that no tools are required to secure the two together or to non-destructively detach the ballast members from the inactive area.
- the photovoltaic device can be secured against the surface and later detached from the surface in a non-destructive manner so as to not degrade the inactive area.
- a portion of the inactive area, substrate or intermediate layer may degrade due to the detachment of a ballast member, but shall not degrade to the degree that the photovoltaic device becomes inoperable, at the next installation, due to the detachment process.
- ballast members and their fixation configuration are such that severing or puncturing the inactive area, substrate, or intermediate layer will not be required for detachment of the ballast members.
- at least one of the ballast members 66 is detachably secured to the inactive area 72 by an adhesive such as cold-bonded adhesive.
- at least one of the ballast members is detachably secured to the inactive area utilizing a hook and loop fastening device.
- at least one of the ballast members is secured to the inactive area utilizing a threaded fastener.
- the fastener may be a threaded bolt with a flat head positioned at the bottom side (non-exposed side) of the inactive area where the threaded portion of the bolt extends through the thickness of the inactive area material and into or through the ballast member disposed on the exposed side of the inactive area.
- the number of ballast members, their configuration and/or arrangement is selected to withstand certain conditions at the location of the photovoltaic device installation such as but not limited to wind loads, jarring movements, and environment elements.
- the ballast members have a unique configuration to maintain the photovoltaic device against the surface during a single predetermined load condition.
- ballast members each having a substantially similar configuration, is arranged along the inactive area to maintain the inactive area and the photovoltaic device against the surface during a predetermined wind uplift condition at a geographic location.
- a certain number of ballast members have a unique configuration and/or a contact surface area with the inactive area, or orientation with respect to the photovoltaic device installation and structure compared to the remaining ballast members utilized to maintain the inactive area of the photovoltaic device against the surface.
- a double-row or more of spaced ballast members is positioned near the location of high loading, whereas a single row of spaced ballast members may be utilized at another other area of the installation that may not experience the high loading as the area where the double-row of ballast members are located.
- a surface of the ballast member that contacts the inactive area includes a texture such that movement of the ballast member along the inactive area is impeded when the ballast member is placed against the inactive area.
- a surface of the inactive area can have a texture that impedes movement of a contacting ballast member along the inactive area.
- both the ballast member and the inactive area can have contacting textured surfaces to impede movement of the ballast member along the inactive area.
- a photovoltaic system 80 is illustrated.
- the installation system 80 includes a photovoltaic device 82 secured to an interface layer 84, a substrate 86, and a mounting system 88 having a plurality of spaced mounting or ballast members.
- the interface layer 84 is disposed between the photovoltaic device 82 and the substrate 86.
- the interface layer 84 is substantially similar to the interface layer 34 of the installation system 30 of Figure 3 and may have alternative forms as discussed hereinabove with respect to interface layer 34.
- substrate 86 may have alternative forms as discussed hereinabove with respect to the substrate 14 of the installation system 10 of Figure 1.
- the mounting system 88 may be similar to the mounting system 64 of photovoltaic installation 60 and/or incorporate the alternative embodiments discussed above.
- the installation system 100 includes a plurality of spaced photovoltaic devices 102a, 102b, 102c, and 102d, a substrate 104, and a mounting system 106.
- the mounting system 106 includes of a plurality of spaced ballast members 108.
- the ballast members are configured to secure the substrate 104 (with the photovoltaic devices secured thereto) against a surface.
- the ballast members are further configured to be non-destructively detachable from the substrate and the photovoltaic devices are not made inoperable due to the detachment process.
- the substrate 104 also includes a plurality of spaced cutouts 110 whose purpose is substantially similar to the cutouts 50 of the installation system 40 of Figure 4 as discussed hereinabove.
- the ballast members are secured to the inactive area of the photovoltaic device or to an intermediate layer or substrate utilizing a ballast member cover.
- the ballast members are merely placed on an exposed area of the inactive area or the substrate and detachably held in position via the cover.
- the cover is disposed over the ballast member in contact with the inactive area or the substrate.
- the cover is a separate component to be disposed over the ballast member and detachably affixed to the inactive area or to the substrate.
- the cover is an integral portion of the inactive area or the substrate.
- the ballast member cover includes a cover fixation member configured to be detachably secured to a complimentary fixation member of the inactive area or the substrate.
- an arrangement of ballast members utilizing fixation members may have a unique configuration to suit the application similar to the discussion above with respect to unique configurations of adhesive portions and ballast members to suit a particular environment and/or load condition.
- the ballast members may be substantially similar, a certain number of the covers/fixation members may have a higher strength configuration for securing ballast members at a location of the installation subjected to higher loads compared to the remaining ballast members at another location of the installation.
- the fixation members can have various configurations, such as degradable/removable adhesives, hook and loop fastening devices, snap-fit components, or slide and lock type mechanisms.
- Hook and loop fasteners include metallic, plastic type mechanical components or a Velcro product as supplied by Velcro USA, headquartered in Manchester, New Hampshire.
- the intermediate layer, inactive area, substrate, or the interface layer include portions structurally reinforced or otherwise modified to accommodate the fixation members at a location.
- the ballast members themselves may have a configuration where a ballast fixation member is an integral portion of the ballast member configured to be detachably secured to a complimentary fixation member of the inactive area or the substrate.
- the ballast members may have integral fastening members such as adhesives, hook and loop fastening devices, snap-fit components, or slide and lock type mechanisms.
- a ballast fixation member is a cover where the cover has a cover fixation member that engages a complimentary substrate fixation member.
- a ballast member in another example, includes a snap-fit male portion that forcibly engages a complementary female portion to thereby detachably secure the ballast member against the substrate.
- a component joined to the ballast fixation member slidably engages a complementary substrate fixation member and incorporates an engagement lock that detachably secures the ballast fixation member with the substrate fixation member, to detachably secure the ballast member against the substrate.
- the detachable engagement locking mechanism operates in a manner similar to a seat belt buckle.
- a ballast member cover may be used, in addition to fixation members, to secure the ballast member to the inactive area or to the substrate.
- a mounting system includes a combination of adhesive portions and ballast members utilized to detachably secure a photovoltaic device to a surface.
- adhesive portions and ballast members utilized to detachably secure a photovoltaic device to a surface.
- ballast member configurations can be non-destructively removed from the attached components so a new configuration of mounting system can be utilized with the relocated photovoltaic devices to suit the new installation.
- a photovoltaic device is non- destructively attached over a substrate that is disposed over an irregular surface, such as but not limited to, like gravel, dirt, grass, etc.
- the attachment methods include those methods discussed hereinabove concerning application of adhesives and/or ballast members.
- spaced ballast members are merely placed atop an exposed area of the inactive area of the photovoltaic device or the substrate to urge the photovoltaic device against the surface.
- the ballast members are not fixed to the inactive area but urge the inactive area against the mounting surface due to the mass of the ballast members.
- the ballast members are perforated to reduce surface area subjected, for example, to a wind load so the ballast members maintain the inactive area or the substrate against the surface.
- the ballast members may also be aerodynamically configured so a wind load is less likely to displace the ballast members.
- a ballast member may include a rounded or a tapered portion or the like to reduce the chance the ballast member is displaced due to a wind load.
- the spaced ballast members can be coupled together with a connecting member, e.g. cable or rod, extending through the perforated portions. In this embodiment, any one ballast member is less likely to move a great distance relative to the other ballast members when they are subjected to a high wind load.
- the ballast members also have a means for inserting and removing a ballast material.
- the ballast members can have a filling and a drain port, or a detachable portion for filling and later removing the ballast material.
- Ballast members having this configuration may have utility and flexibility in selecting and changing the ballast material to suit a particular environment and/or load condition where the photovoltaic device is to be installed.
- the configuration of ballast members just discussed also provides benefit in not having to transport heavy ballast members.
- the freely spaced ballast members can be configured so that a first portion of the ballast members is configured and positioned to maintain a portion of the photovoltaic device against the surface during an environmental condition, such as a high wind load or a jarring load.
- a second portion of the ballast members has a different configuration and positioning to maintain another portion of the photovoltaic device against the surface during a load condition different than the first portion of ballast members experience.
- a photovoltaic device installation utilizing freely spaced ballast members can include one or more layers as discussed hereinabove such as an intermediate layer, membrane, or an interface layer.
- embodiments discussed herein can also be configured to conform to specifications set by an organization such as Underwriters Laboratory or Factory Mutual (UL/FM).
- UL/FM Underwriters Laboratory or Factory Mutual
- the photovoltaic device installation including a non-destructively detachable mounting system, satisfies certain organizational requirements directed to material, dimensional, weight, strength, electrical, fire/flame, insect, rodent, etc. specifications.
Abstract
Applications Claiming Priority (2)
Application Number | Priority Date | Filing Date | Title |
---|---|---|---|
US6627608P | 2008-02-19 | 2008-02-19 | |
PCT/US2009/000983 WO2009105186A2 (fr) | 2008-02-19 | 2009-02-17 | Système de montage pour fixer un dispositif photovoltaïque et son procédé d'utilisation |
Publications (2)
Publication Number | Publication Date |
---|---|
EP2313930A2 true EP2313930A2 (fr) | 2011-04-27 |
EP2313930A4 EP2313930A4 (fr) | 2013-05-15 |
Family
ID=40986094
Family Applications (1)
Application Number | Title | Priority Date | Filing Date |
---|---|---|---|
EP09713400.1A Withdrawn EP2313930A4 (fr) | 2008-02-19 | 2009-02-17 | Système de montage pour fixer un dispositif photovoltaïque et son procédé d'utilisation |
Country Status (6)
Country | Link |
---|---|
EP (1) | EP2313930A4 (fr) |
KR (1) | KR20100125336A (fr) |
CN (1) | CN102007602A (fr) |
CA (1) | CA2723336A1 (fr) |
TW (1) | TW200952188A (fr) |
WO (1) | WO2009105186A2 (fr) |
Families Citing this family (1)
Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
---|---|---|---|---|
US10505492B2 (en) | 2016-02-12 | 2019-12-10 | Solarcity Corporation | Building integrated photovoltaic roofing assemblies and associated systems and methods |
Citations (3)
Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
---|---|---|---|---|
EP0949687A2 (fr) * | 1998-04-06 | 1999-10-13 | Canon Kabushiki Kaisha | Module de cellules solaires et son procédé de fabrication, méthode pour son installation et dispositif de génération d'électricité l'utilisant |
EP1020930A2 (fr) * | 1999-01-14 | 2000-07-19 | Canon Kabushiki Kaisha | Module de cellules solaires et dispositif de production d'énergie |
US20050116143A1 (en) * | 2002-02-14 | 2005-06-02 | Haruo Watanabe | Photovoltaic power generating device, attachment for photovoltaic power generating device, and electric or electronic device |
Family Cites Families (1)
Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
---|---|---|---|---|
US20050224109A1 (en) * | 2004-04-09 | 2005-10-13 | Posbic Jean P | Enhanced function photovoltaic modules |
-
2009
- 2009-02-17 EP EP09713400.1A patent/EP2313930A4/fr not_active Withdrawn
- 2009-02-17 WO PCT/US2009/000983 patent/WO2009105186A2/fr active Application Filing
- 2009-02-17 CA CA2723336A patent/CA2723336A1/fr not_active Abandoned
- 2009-02-17 CN CN2009801137634A patent/CN102007602A/zh active Pending
- 2009-02-17 KR KR1020107020915A patent/KR20100125336A/ko not_active Application Discontinuation
- 2009-02-18 TW TW098105052A patent/TW200952188A/zh unknown
Patent Citations (3)
Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
---|---|---|---|---|
EP0949687A2 (fr) * | 1998-04-06 | 1999-10-13 | Canon Kabushiki Kaisha | Module de cellules solaires et son procédé de fabrication, méthode pour son installation et dispositif de génération d'électricité l'utilisant |
EP1020930A2 (fr) * | 1999-01-14 | 2000-07-19 | Canon Kabushiki Kaisha | Module de cellules solaires et dispositif de production d'énergie |
US20050116143A1 (en) * | 2002-02-14 | 2005-06-02 | Haruo Watanabe | Photovoltaic power generating device, attachment for photovoltaic power generating device, and electric or electronic device |
Non-Patent Citations (1)
Title |
---|
See also references of WO2009105186A2 * |
Also Published As
Publication number | Publication date |
---|---|
KR20100125336A (ko) | 2010-11-30 |
WO2009105186A3 (fr) | 2009-11-12 |
CA2723336A1 (fr) | 2009-08-27 |
TW200952188A (en) | 2009-12-16 |
CN102007602A (zh) | 2011-04-06 |
WO2009105186A2 (fr) | 2009-08-27 |
EP2313930A4 (fr) | 2013-05-15 |
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