EP2415082A1

EP2415082A1 - Mounting system for solar panels, and mounting member and positioning element for same

Info

Publication number: EP2415082A1
Application number: EP09776511A
Authority: EP
Inventors: Geerling Loois; Stefan Zschoch; Jan Wenzlaff; Michael Kübsch
Original assignee: Renusol GmbH
Current assignee: Renusol Europe GmbH
Priority date: 2009-04-03
Filing date: 2009-04-03
Publication date: 2012-02-08
Also published as: WO2010112049A1

Abstract

The present invention provides a mounting system (100) for mounting one or more solar panels (S), and comprises a mounting frame (10) having a plurality of elongate mounting members (20) adapted to be arranged and secured spaced apart and substantially parallel to one another, wherein each of the mounting members (20) is adapted to receive an edge region (E) of a solar panel (S) for fixing same such that each solar panel (S) extends between at least two mounting members (20). The mounting frame (10) may further comprise a plurality of elongate support members (70) adapted to be secured on a base structure, wherein the plurality of mounting members (20) are adapted to be rigidly secured on the support members (70). The mounting system (100) preferably comprises at least one retaining element (40) provided on one or more of the elongate mounting members (20) to prevent the solar panel (S) from slipping in an axial or longitudinal direction from the mounting members (20) before the solar panel is affixed thereto. Furthermore, at least one spacer element (50) may be provided on the elongate mounting members (20) along their longitudinal extent, wherein each spacer element (50) at least partially delimits an area (21) on the mounting member (21) for receiving the solar panel (S). The mounting members (20) may also be configured to include an arresting element (36) that prevents the mounting members (20) from slipping or sliding relative to the support members (70) before the mounting members (20) are rigidly secured on the support members (70).

Description

MOUNTING SYSTEM FOR SOLAR PANELS, AND

MOUNTING MEMBER AND POSITIONING ELEMENT FOR SAME

Technical Field

The present invention relates to a mounting system for mounting solar panels and to a mounting member and a positioning element designed for use in the mounting system. The mounting system of the invention and the associated mounting member and positioning element are particularly suitable for use in mounting solar panels on a pitched roof and other angled or sloping structures, and it will convenient to hereinafter describe the invention in this exemplary context.

It will be appreciated, however, that the mounting system of the invention is not limited to use on pitched roofs or sloping surfaces, but may also be employed in open-land installations in which the solar panels may or may not be inclined or pitched at an angle on a supporting structure or mounting frame.

Background of the Invention

As a result of the increasing trend towards adoption of renewable energy sources, the installation of solar panel arrays is gaining in popularity, not only for industrial and institutional applications, but also in domestic environments. For industrial, institutional and domestic installation of solar panel arrays, the solar panels are often mounted on the roof structures of buildings in the area in which the solar energy is required. Roof structures are convenient for this purpose because they present a large surface area directed towards the sun and are often largely out of view from the normal visual perspective. Horizontal or flat roof surfaces are very convenient for workers assembling and installing an array of solar panels as they provide an even, stable working environment. Many roofing structures, however, are not horizontal but rather are pitched or angled, and thereby present significant challenges for the workers installing the solar panel array.

In the case of solar panels comprising photovoltaic modules, newer technologies which are being increasingly produced by manufacturers involve relatively thin, glass-layered modules which dispense with a metal frame around the glass panels. Although they may not offer the maximum possible solar efficiency, the frameless glass-layered photovoltaic panels are nevertheless gaining in popularity because they still provide acceptable performance at a substantially lower cost than the modules with the highest possible solar efficiency. The frameless, glass-layered photovoltaic solar panels typically have dimensions of about 1.3 m x 1.1 m and have a mass of about 25 kg. Thus, in addition to the fact that the frameless glass panels are difficult to mount reliably without causing damage at the edge regions of the panels, the individual panels are rather unwieldy in size and present an area which, during handling, is susceptible to even light gusts of wind, making handling by a single person installing the array difficult. In addition, the individual panels are quite heavy.

It is therefore apparent that the installation of such panels on a pitched or inclined roof surface can present major challenges for an efficient installation procedure.

An object of the present invention is to provide a new and improved system for mounting solar panels, which enables an easier and more efficient installation procedure that can be performed by a single person. Another object of the present invention is to provide a new and improved system for mounting solar panels, with which the risk to the health and safety of a worker performing the installation on a pitched roof or angled structure can be reduced, as well as the risk to bystanders in the vicinity. A further object of the invention is to provide a new and improved system for mounting solar panels, with which the risk of damage to the solar panels themselves during the installation procedure may be reduced. Summary of the Invention

According to one broad aspect, the present invention provides a mounting system for mounting one or more solar panels on an inclined structure; such as, for example, on a pitched roof. The system comprises a mounting frame for mounting the solar panels thereto, the mounting frame including a plurality of elongate mounting members adapted to be arranged and secured spaced apart and substantially parallel to one another. Each of the mounting members is adapted to receive an edge region of a solar panel for fixing same such that each solar panel extends between and is supported by two spaced apart mounting members. Thus, the elongate mounting members typically extend substantially parallel to the edge regions of the solar panels they are configured to receive and hold. The mounting system further comprises at least one retaining element provided on each of the mounting members and adapted to prevent the solar panel from slipping along an axial or longitudinal extent on the respective mounting member before the solar panel is fixed to the mounting members. The at least one retaining element does not itself operate to fix and/or to fasten the solar panel to the mounting member.

In a preferred form of the invention, the at least one retaining element comprises a body portion which presents an abutment surface for engagement with a rim or peripheral edge of the solar panel. The abutment surface projects substantially perpendicularly to an axial or longitudinal extent of the respective mounting member. For example, the abutment surface of the retaining element may project upwardly and/or laterally of an area on the respective mounting member for receiving the solar panel. In a particular preferred form of the invention, each mounting member is adapted to receive and fix an edge region of a solar panel at two laterally opposite sides thereof, and the abutment surface of the retaining element projects upwardly and/or laterally of both of the areas on the mounting member for receiving and fixing the edge region of the solar panel.

When installed on a pitched roof, the plurality of elongate mounting members are typically arranged such that they extend at approximately the same angle of pitch or inclination as the roof itself. In other words, the elongate mounting members of the mounting system are preferably secured on the roof extending substantially parallel to the general plane of the roof surface and inclined at about the same angle as the pitched roof. Accordingly, when one or more solar panels is/are placed on the mounting members for assembly within the mounting system, the at least one retaining element - which is desirably pre-assembled on the mounting member - is adapted to prevent the solar panel from slipping down along the inclined axial or longitudinal extent of the respective mounting member before the solar panel has actually been securely fixed to the mounting frame. Each retaining member engages a peripheral edge or rim of the associated solar panel to provisionally hold the panel in position on the inclined mounting members. This enables the person assembling the solar panel array to place the panel on the pre-assembled mounting frame and to release his/her grip on the panel without fear of the panel inadvertently sliding off. In this way, the solar panels can firstly be reliably placed in position on the mounting frame by the person installing the solar panel array, with the person then being free to fix the solar panel securely to the mounting frame with the appropriate fixtures or fixing means.

In a preferred form of the invention, one of the retaining elements is releasably and rigidly attached at a longitudinal end region of the respective mounting member. Where more than one retaining element is arranged on a respective one of the mounting members, the retaining elements are preferably attached spaced apart along the length of that mounting member by a distance corresponding to a length dimension of the edge region of the solar panel received on the mounting member. In this way, each of the retaining elements may be adapted to engage and retain a lower peripheral edge of a respective solar panel, with the solar panels being positioned next to or adjacent each other on the mounting member. Each retaining element preferably comprises attachment means for releasably and rigidly attaching the retaining element to the respective mounting member. This attachment means may, for example, include an opening for receiving an associated fastener, such as a screw or bolt. The at least one retaining element is desirably pre-assembled with the respective mounting member prior to assembly of the mounting frame and the solar panel array in situ. In a preferred form of the invention, the elongate mounting members are fabricated from a rigid and robust material, preferably from a metal, such as steel or aluminium. The mounting members may be configured as substantially straight sections with a uniform cross-section or profile, and may be formed, for example, by extrusion. The retaining elements are preferably fabricated from a somewhat softer material, with synthetic materials such as polymer plastics being especially preferred. Possible examples include polyethylene, polyurethane, and polyvinyl chloride.

In a preferred form of the invention, each of the plurality of elongate mounting members comprises a first channel or slot, which extends longitudinally of the mounting member. This first channel or slot is preferably located generally centrally of each mounting member and opens to an upper side of the mounting member. The first channel or slot may include securing means, preferably in the form of a surface profile, which is designed to interact with a complementary fastener. For example, the securing means may comprise a toothed or serrated surface profile (e.g. forming a partial screw thread) within the first channel or slot for interaction with a threaded fastener, or otherwise adapted for an interference connection. Thus, the first channel or slot may co-operate with other components of the mounting system to secure or fix the one or more solar panels to the mounting members.

In a preferred form of the invention, the mounting frame further comprises fixing means for securely fixing the one or more solar panels to the elongate mounting members. The fixing means preferably comprises at least one clamping member adapted to clamp and securely hold the one or more solar panels fixed in position on the mounting members. The clamping member is preferably elongate and is adapted to extend along and substantially parallel to the edge region of the solar panel received on an upper side of the respective mounting member. The fixing means may further comprise one or more fastener for attaching the clamping member to the respective mounting member in clamping engagement with the edge region of the solar panel. In this regard, the one or more fastener for attaching the clamping member may be adapted to engage with the securing means of the first channel or slot formed in the mounting member.

In a preferred form of the invention, the at least one retaining element comprises locating means for locating or positioning the retaining element in a particular or predetermined orientation on the respective mounting member. Specifically, the locating means is adapted to locate or position the retaining element such that the abutment surface adopts a predetermined orientation with respect to the mounting member. The locating means preferably comprises one or more protrusion for insertion into and/or receipt within one or more corresponding recess, e.g. one or more second channel or slot, formed in the mounting member. The locating means is preferably adapted to permit axial or longitudinal displacement and/or adjustment of the retaining element along the length of the mounting member while maintaining the retaining element in the predetermined orientation on the mounting member.

In a preferred form of the invention, the mounting system further comprises at least one spacer element adapted to be provided on the elongate mounting member along its longitudinal extent. The spacer element at least partially defines a limit or boundary to an area on the mounting member for receiving the solar panel. As noted above, each mounting member may be configured to receive an edge region of a solar panel at laterally opposite sides thereof. In such a case, the at least one spacer element is desirably designed to separate, e.g. longitudinally separate, those two panel receiving areas of the mounting member.

Preferably, the at least one spacer element comprises a body portion adapted to be located between two panel receiving areas on an upper side of the mounting member. The body portion of the spacer element has surfaces that respectively define a limit or boundary of each of the panel receiving areas on the mounting member, and each limiting surface is adapted to be located or positioned adjacent a peripheral edge of a solar panel fixed on the mounting member. The spacer element may thus limit the extent to which the edge region of the solar panel may be received on the upper side of the mounting member. According to another broad aspect, the present invention provides a mounting system for mounting one or more soiar panels, comprising a mounting frame for mounting the solar panels thereto, the mounting frame including a plurality of elongate mounting members adapted to be arranged and secured spaced apart and substantially parallel to one another, e.g. on a pitched roof. Each of the plurality of mounting members is adapted to receive and hold an edge region of a solar panel such that each solar panel extends between a pair of the mounting members. The edge regions of the solar panels received and held by the mounting members thus extend substantially parallel to the elongate mounting members. The mounting system further comprises at least one spacer element adapted to be provided on each of the elongate mounting members along a longitudinal extent thereof, wherein the spacer element defines a limit of a panel receiving area on the respective mounting member.

In a preferred form of the invention, each mounting member is adapted to receive an edge region of a solar panel at laterally opposite sides thereof and the at least one spacer element is adapted to separate, e.g. longitudinally separate, the two panel receiving areas of the mounting member. Thus, a body portion of the at least one spacer element is preferably designed to be located between and/or to separate the panel receiving areas on an upper side of the mounting member. In this way, the body portion of the spacer element may be located between the edge regions of adjacent solar panels received and fixed on the same mounting member, so that the spacer element prevents hard and brittle edge regions of adjacent solar panels from contacting or impacting against one another. The body portion of the at least one spacer element naturally presents surfaces defining the limits of the panel receiving areas at the upper side of the respective mounting member, with the limiting surfaces positioned adjacent the peripheral edges of the solar panels.

In a preferred form of the invention, the at least one spacer element comprises locating means for locating or positioning that spacer element in a predetermined orientation on the respective elongate mounting member. That is, the locating means is adapted to locate or position the retaining element such that the limiting surface adopts a predetermined orientation with respect to the mounting member. The locating means may comprise one or more projection, such as one or more tongue member, for insertion into or receipt within a corresponding recess, such as a channel or slot (e.g. the first channel or slot), provided in the respective mounting member. The locating means is preferably adapted to permit axial or longitudinal displacement and/or adjustment of the spacer element along the length of the mounting member while maintaining the spacer element in the predetermined orientation on the mounting member.

Furthermore, as with each of the retaining elements, the at least one spacer element is preferably fabricated from a material which is not as hard as the material of the mounting members. For example, synthetic materials such as polymer plastics are especially preferred, with possible examples including polyethylene, polyurethane, and polyvinyl chloride. These materials should preferably still be relatively robust and durable, however.

According to a further broad aspect, the present invention provides a mounting system for mounting one or more solar panels, comprising a mounting frame having a plurality of elongate support members adapted to be secured on a base structure, such as a pitched roof, and a plurality of elongate mounting members adapted to be rigidly secured on the support members and arranged spaced apart and substantially parallel to one another. Each of the mounting members is adapted to receive and hold an edge region of a solar panel such that each solar panel extends between at least two of the mounting members. The edge regions of the solar panel received and held by the mounting members thus extend substantially parallel to the elongate mounting members. The elongate mounting members are configured to include an arresting element that holds the mounting members on the support members (e.g. prevents them from slipping) before the mounting members are rigidly secured on the support members.

In a preferred form of the invention, the arresting element is configured to project from a lower side of the mounting members for engagement with the support members on which the mounting members are to be rigidly secured. The lower side of the mounting members preferably comprises a recess for attaching the arresting element. The recess may, for example, be in the form a third channel or slot which extends longitudinally of the mounting member and the arresting element may be attached to permit longitudinal displacement and/or adjustment of the arresting element there-along, e.g. in a slidable manner.

According to yet another broad aspect, the present invention provides a mounting member for mounting a solar panel thereto. The mounting member is an elongate structural element, such as a beam or rail, to which the solar panels are mounted and comprises at least one panel seating area formed at an upper side of the mounting member, the panel seating area being adapted to receive and support an edge region of the solar panel, wherein the panel seating area extends substantially parallel to the edge region of the solar polar to be received thereon. A first channel or elongate recess extends longitudinally of the mounting member adjacent the at least one panel seating area, and the first channel or elongate recess opens to the upper side of the mounting member. The first channel or elongate recess is designed to interact with a complementary fastener for securely attaching a clamping member which is adapted to clamp and securely hold the solar panel fixed in position in the seating area of the mounting member. In this regard, the first channel or elongate recess may include securing means designed to interact with the complementary fastener. For example, the securing means may include a surface profile, such as a partial screw thread, formed in a surface within the first channel or elongate recess.

In a preferred form of the invention, the first channel or elongate recess is located approximately centrally of the mounting member and is substantially not covered by the solar panel when the edge region of the solar panel is received and supported in the panel seating area.

In a preferred form of the invention, the mounting member comprises two panel seating areas formed at the upper side thereof. The two panel seating areas extend generally parallel to the first channel or elongate recess on laterally opposite sides thereof.

In a preferred form of the invention, each panel seating area on the mounting member includes a seating element, such as a pad or strip, which is adapted to cushion the edge region of the solar panel received in the panel seating area. The seating element is preferably formed of a relatively soft and resilient material, such as a synthetic rubber or an elastomeric material. Each panel seating area on the mounting member may include a recess or opening for receiving and/or attaching the seating element on the mounting member.

In one preferred form of the invention, the mounting member further comprises an elongate clamping member, for example formed as a clamping rail, adapted to clamp and securely hold the solar panel fixed in position in the seating area of the mounting member.

According to yet a further broad aspect, the present invention provides a positioning element for limiting movement of a solar panel on an elongate mounting member, without fastening or attaching the solar panel thereto, in a mounting system for mounting one or more solar panels on a pitched roof. The positioning element comprises a body portion presenting an abutment surface for engagement with a peripheral edge of a solar panel and forming a stop or limit to a panel receiving area on the mounting member, and locating means adapted to locate the positioning element on the mounting member such that the abutment surface adopts a predetermined orientation with respect to the panel receiving area on the mounting member. The positioning element optionally also includes attachment means for releasably attaching the positioning element to the mounting member. The positioning element is itself typically not adapted to fix or to fasten the solar panel on the mounting member.

In a preferred form of the invention, the locating means is adapted to interact with complementary means or structures on the mounting member. For example, the locating means may include one or more protrusion or projection for receipt in a complementary recess formed in the mounting member. Preferably, the locating means is adapted to permit axial or longitudinal displacement and/or adjustment of the positioning element along the length of the mounting member while maintaining the abutment surface in the predetermined orientation on the mounting member.

In one preferred form of the invention, the positioning element is configured as a retaining element to prevent the solar panel from slipping in an axial or longitudinal direction on the mounting member before the solar panel is affixed thereto. In an alternative form of the invention, however, the positioning element is configured as a spacer element to be provided on the along the longitudinal extent elongate of the mounting member, the spacer element preferably being adapted to separate two panel receiving areas of the mounting member.

The terms "upper", "lower", "upwardly", "downwardly", "lateral", "laterally" and other similar terms used herein in respect of various parts of the mounting system of the invention are intended to be given their ordinary meaning in view of the normal or in-use orientation of the mounting system described herein. It will be appreciated, however, that other interpretations of these terms may be appropriate depending on the particular orientation of the system and/or its respective parts at the time.

Brief Description of the Drawings

The above and further features and advantages of the invention will become more readily apparent from the following detailed description of preferred embodiments of the invention with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which like reference characters identify like features, and in which:

Fig. 1 is a perspective view of a mounting system for solar panels according to a preferred embodiment of the invention shown with the panels mounted on the mounting frame of the system; Fig. 2 is a detailed perspective view of a retaining element according to a preferred embodiment of the invention in the region marked "A" of the mounting system shown in Fig. 1 ;

Fig. 3 is a detailed perspective view of a retaining element according to a preferred embodiment of the invention in the region marked "B" of the mounting system shown in Fig. 1 ;

Fig. 4 is an end view of the mounting member shown in Fig. 3 with the retaining element and solar panels illustrated;

Fig. 5 is a cross-sectional view of a mounting member and solar panels of the mounting system according to the embodiment of the invention shown in Fig. 1 , wherein the mounting member is not at a periphery of the solar panel array;

Fig. 6 is a cross-sectional view of a mounting member and solar panel of the mounting system according to the embodiment of the invention shown in Fig. 1 , wherein the mounting member is at a periphery of the solar panel array;

Figs. 7 (a) to (c) are perspective, front, and side views, respectively, of a retaining element according to a preferred embodiment of the invention for the mounting system of the invention shown in Fig. 1 ;

Fig. 8 is an end view of a mounting member of the mounting system according to the preferred embodiment of the invention shown in Fig. 1 ;

Fig. 9 is an end view of a clamping member of the mounting system according to the preferred embodiment of the invention shown in Fig. 1 ;

Fig. 10 is an end view of an alternative clamping member of the mounting system according to the preferred embodiment of the invention shown in Fig. 1 ; Figs. 1 1 (a) to (c) are perspective, side, and front views, respectively, of a spacer element according to a preferred embodiment of the invention for the mounting system of the invention, as shown for example in Fig. 1 ;

Fig. 12 is a longitudinally sectioned side view of a mounting member in the mounting system according to the preferred embodiment of the invention shown in Fig. 1 ;

Fig. 13 is a detailed perspective view of the lower side of a mounting member in the solar panel mounting system shown in Fig. 12;

Fig. 14 is a detailed perspective view of the mounting frame and solar panel in the mounting system shown in Fig. 12;

Fig. 15 and Fig. 16 are partial side views of the mounting system of the preferred embodiment shown in Fig. 1 , with the view in Fig. 16 angled at the roof pitch;

Fig. 17 is a sectioned view of the solar panel mounting system shown in Fig. 15 taken in the direction of the arrows A-A; and

Fig. 18 is a detailed view of the solar panel mounting system shown in Fig. 15 taken in the circled region labelled Z.

Detailed Description of the Preferred Embodiments

With reference to Fig. 1 of the drawings, a mounting system 100 according to a preferred embodiment of the invention is illustrated in an assembled state. The mounting system 100 shown in Fig. 1 includes four rectangular solar panels S securely fixed to a mounting frame 10 of the mounting system in a rectangular array. The solar panels S in this embodiment comprise relatively thin photovoltaic modules having a frameless sheet-glass covering. It will be appreciated, however, that other types of solar panels may also be contemplated for use in the mounting system 100 of the present invention. As mentioned at the outset, the solar panels S are typically about 1.1 m x 1.3 m in area and have a mass of about 25kg.

The mounting frame 10 of the mounting system 100 comprises a plurality of elongate mounting members 20, which in this particular embodiment are straight elements having a substantially uniform or constant cross-section, and which are formed, for example, as extruded aluminium sections. The mounting members 20 are thus elongate structural elements on which the solar panels are mounted and supported within the frame of the mounting system. Accordingly, the mounting members 20 may generally be considered as structural beams, and in the present embodiment the mounting members 20 will be hereafter referred to as mounting rails, as they are often known in the art.

In the event the mounting system 100 of the invention is installed on a pitched roof, the mounting rails 20 are secured on the pitched roof (not shown) such that they extend substantially parallel to the general plane of the roof and are inclined at about the same angle as the roof itself. In other words, the mounting rails 20 are typically arranged such that they extend directly up the incline of the pitched roof and are arranged substantially parallel to one another and spaced apart at regular intervals approx. corresponding to the width of the individual solar panels S. The mounting rails 20 are rigidly secured to the structure of the roof with the aid of other components of the mounting frame 10, as will be explained in more detail later. Firstly, however, the fixation of the solar panels S to the mounting rails will be explained and illustrated.

The particular form or cross-section of each of the mounting rails 20 can be clearly seen in Figs. 4 to 6 and is specifically shown in isolation in Fig. 8. Each of the mounting rails 20 is adapted to receive a side edge region E of a solar panel S for securely fixing the side edge region E to the mounting rails. Accordingly, when mounted within the mounting system 100 of the invention, each solar panel S extends between two parallel mounting rails 20. In the particular embodiment illustrated, each of the mounting rails 20 has the same configuration and, as such, each mounting rail 20 is adapted to receive an edge region E of two separate solar panels S at laterally opposite sides of the mounting rail. When one of the mounting rails 20 is arranged at an extreme outer periphery of the solar panel array, however, the mounting rail 20 will typically receive and securely fix the edge region E of a solar panel at one side only, as shown in Fig. 6.

With reference now to Fig. 8, and later to Figs. 5 and 6, the specific configuration of the mounting rail 20 and the manner in which the respective edge regions E of the solar panels S are received on the mounting rails 20 will now be described. As shown in Fig. 8, the mounting rail 20 comprises two seating areas 21 formed at an upper side of the mounting rail. Each of the seating areas 21 is adapted to receive and support the edge region E of one of the solar panels S, with each of these two panel seating areas 21 extending along the length of the mounting rail 20 parallel to the edge region E of the solar panel it receives and supports. In this regard, it will be noted that the width of each panel seating area 21 and correspondingly, therefore, the width of the edge region E of each solar panel S to be supported and fixed to the mounting rail 20 is typically in the range of about 10 mm to 50 mm, and preferably in the range of about 20 mm to 40 mm. Thus, the overall width of the mounting rails 20 (i.e. the width dimension of the section shown in Fig. 8) is in the range of about 30 mm to 120 mm, and preferably in the range of about 60 mm to 90 mm.

Extending longitudinally of the mounting rail 20 and arranged centrally of the mounting rail section is a first channel 22 which opens to the upper side of the mounting rail 20 to a pair of adjacent and parallel extending bearing surfaces 23 located next to the opening of the channel 22. The purpose and operation of these bearing surfaces 23 will be explained in more detail later. The channel 22 has a pair of substantially parallel walls 24, which join together at a lower region thereof in a circularly curved transition at the base of the first channel 22. The parallel surfaces of the walls 24 defining the inner surfaces of the first channel 22 have a surface profile, e.g. serrations, which combine or cooperate to form a partial screw thread for interaction with a complementary threaded fastener. Thus, the two panel seating areas 21 formed at the upper side of the mounting rail 20 extend parallel to the first channel 22 on laterally opposite sides of the mounting rail 20.

Each of the panel seating areas 21 has an outer flange element 25 and an inner flange element 26, the upper surfaces of which are arranged in essentially the same plane and are adapted to receive and support the edge region E of the solar panel S. A longitudinally extending gap between each of the outer and inner flange elements 25, 26 opens into a second channel 27 extending along the length of the mounting rail in each of the panel seating areas 21. As can be seen with attention to the detail of Figs. 5 and 6, the edge regions E of each of the solar panels S are not seated in direct contact with the mounting rails 20. Rather, relatively soft and resilient seating elements 30 are provided in each of the panel seating areas 21 . As the solar panels S in this embodiment are frameless and merely comprise edge regions E of fragile glass material, it is naturally desirable to cushion contact with, and/or clamping of, the edge regions E of the solar panels. The seating elements 30 thus comprise rectangular strips of synthetic rubber and include attachment projections which extend into the second channels 27. A barb- or hook-like rim of the attachment projection engages an underside of the outer and inner flange members 25, 26 to connect the seating elements 30 with the mounting rail 20. The rectangular, block-like strip of the seating element 30 has an overall width which is essentially the same as the width of the respective panel seating area 21 and extends in Fig. 8 from a small shoulder 28 at an innermost edge of the inner flange 26 to the outer edge of the outer flange 25. To ensure an even support of the solar panels S in the panel seating areas 21 , the seating elements 30 typically extend over the full length dimension of the edge region E of the solar panels S received in and supported on the seating areas 21. The seating elements 30 are desirably combined with the mounting rails 20 in a pre-assembly procedure so that the installation of the solar panel array, conducted e.g. on the roof-top, is simplified for the person carrying out the installation.

To briefly conclude the identification of the other main features of the mounting rail 20 with reference to Fig. 8 of the drawings, it will be noted that an underside or lower side of the mounting rail 20 also includes a longitudinally extending rectangular cavity, which will be hereafter referred to as third channel 29. The third channel 29 opens to the underside of the mounting rail 20 and the edges of the opening to that channel are formed by short flange elements 31 . On the laterally opposite sides of the mounting rail 20, two further longitudinally extending rectangular cavities or side channels 33 are provided, the respective openings of which are again bounded by flange elements - this time by an upper flange element 34 and a lower flange element 35. The outer surfaces of the upper and lower flange elements 34, 35 extend in approximately the same vertical plane and have a ribbed or toothed profile.

With reference now to Figs. 1 to 3 of the drawings, it will be noted that each of the mounting rails 20 illustrated in the mounting system 100 shown in Fig. 1 comprises two retaining elements 40 mounted spaced apart on the mounting rails by a distance corresponding to a length dimension of the edge region E of each of the solar panels S supported on the mounting rails 20. Referring additionally to Figs. 7(a) to (c), which specifically illustrate the retaining element 40 of this embodiment in isolation, it will be seen that each retaining element 40 comprises a body portion 41 having a generally flat rectangular central part 42 including a circular aperture 43 for receiving a fastener 44, such as a bolt or screw. The body portion 41 further comprises lobe parts 45 which extend laterally outwardly and upwardly from the central attachment part 42. Each lobe part 45 presents an abutment surface 46 which is adapted to engage with and support a peripheral edge P of the solar panel S. As can be particularly clearly seen in Fig. 4 of the drawings, the abutment surfaces 46 of the lobe parts 45 of the retaining element 40 extend across the panel seating area 21 of the mounting rail 20 and project upwardly somewhat beyond the edge region E of the solar panel S positioned on the mounting rail 20. With further reference to Fig. 4, the fastener 44 is formed as a threaded bolt, the external thread of which has a complementary profile to the surfaces of the walls 24 defining the partial screw thread within the centrally located first channel 22. Thus, the bolt fastener 44 cooperates with the first channel 22 of the mounting rail 20 for securely fastening the retaining element 40 to the mounting rail 20. Referring to Figs. 7(a) to (c) and again to Fig. 4 of the drawings, it will be noted that each of the retaining elements 40 has a pair of short protrusions 47, each of which is configured to have a size and a spacing corresponding to the gaps between the outer and inner flange elements 25, 26 which form the openings into each of the second channels 27 at the upper side of the mounting rail 20. Thus, each of these short tongue protrusions 47 functions as locating means for locating or positioning the retaining element 40 in a desired predetermined orientation on the mounting rail 20 - i.e. with the central part 42 of the body portion 41 seated on the bearing surfaces 23 and extending across the width of the mounting rail 20 such that each abutment surface 46 is located across each of the respective panel seating areas 21 for engagement with a lower peripheral edge P in the edge region E of each solar panel S received in those seating areas 21.

By rigidly securing the retaining elements 40 to the mounting rails 20 at spacings along the mounting rails corresponding to the length of the edge regions E of the solar panels S to be received and fixed in the panel seating areas 21 , placement and assembly of each of the solar panels S within the mounting system 100 of the present invention is substantially simplified compared with prior art arrangements. In particular, the areas 21 for locating the panels on each of the mounting rails 20 are clearly recognizable for a person placing the solar panels S in position on the mounting rails 20 for subsequent attachment. Further, the retaining elements 40 effectively prevent the solar panels from inadvertently slipping out of position or sliding completely off the mounting rails before the solar panels S are rigidly fixed to the mounting rails 20. As a result, a single operator is able to individually place each of the solar panels S in its mounting position, which is clearly delimited by the retaining elements 40, sound in the knowledge that the solar panels S will not inadvertently slip out of position or off the mounting rails 20, despite the angular inclination of the pitched roof upon which the panels are mounted. The rigidly attached retaining elements 40 hold the individual panels in the desired position leaving the operator free to place another panel and/or to complete the fixture of the solar panels S already placed in their mounting positions. With reference now to Figs. 5 and 6, Figs. 1 1 (a) to (c), Fig. 12 and Fig. 14 of the drawings, it can be seen that the solar panel mounting system 100 of the present invention includes a plurality of spacer elements 50 provided spaced apart along the longitudinal extent of the mounting rails 20. As best seen in Figs. 1 1 (a) to (c), which illustrate the spacer element 50 of this embodiment in isolation, each of the spacer elements 50 includes an elongate, generally rectangular body portion 51 , from which depend two tongue-like projections 52. These projections 52 are configured to be received within the first channel 22 of the mounting rail 20, as clearly visible in Figs. 5 and 6. The tongue-like protrusions 52 thus form locating means for locating or positioning each spacer element 50 in a predetermined orientation with respect to the mounting rails 20. In this regard, it will be seen that the body portion 51 of each spacer element 50 assumes a position extending along an upper surface of the mounting rail 20 seated on the bearing surfaces 23 on either side of the opening to the first channel 22. That is, an underside 53 of the body portion 51 is adapted to seat against the bearing surfaces 23 and the spacer element 50 has a width which essentially corresponds to the width of those bearing surfaces 23.

As a result, lateral or side surfaces 54 of the body portion 51 of each spacer element 50 serve to define a limit or boundary of the panel seating areas 21 at the laterally opposite sides of the mounting rail 20. Furthermore, the body portion 51 of the spacer element 50 physically separates the two panel seating areas 21 on opposite sides of the mounting rail 20 from one another. The consequence and benefit of this arrangement is very clear from Figs. 5 and 6 of the drawings. In particular, the frameless peripheral edges P at the sides of each of the solar panels

S are located adjacent to and/or in abutment with the lateral or side surface 54 of the spacer element 50 and are thereby prevented from contacting each other. The spacer elements 50 therefore not only clearly delimit or define the panel seating area 21 for receiving the edge region E of a solar panel S on the mounting rails 20, but also separate the two panel seating areas 21 from one another such that the edges of the panels which are susceptible to damage from undesired impact or contact with other hard objects are protected. In this connection, the spacer elements 50 are typically fabricated from a robust polymer plastic, such as polyethylene.

The spacer elements 50 also have the further important characteristic that they cooperate with the clamping rail 40 to limit the amount of clamping pressure which may be applied to the edge regions E of the solar panels received in the panel seating areas 21.

With reference to Figs. 1 1 (a) to (c) and Fig. 12 of the drawings, it will be seen that the body portion 51 of each of the spacer elements 50 includes an elongate aperture or slot 55 for accommodating a fastening bolt 61. This and other important features of the spacer elements 50 will be explained in the following description of the manner in which the respective edge regions E of the solar panels S are securely fixed to the mounting rails 20.

In this respect, with reference to Figs. 1 , 5 and 6 and Figs. 8 to 10 of the drawings, the mounting system 100 of the invention comprises fixing means in the form of elongate clamping members or clamping rails 60, 60' examples of which are specifically illustrated in Figs. 9 and 10. The clamping rails 60, 60' extend over a substantial length of the mounting rails 20 and typically extend at least about two thirds, more preferably about four-fifths, of the length dimension of the edge region E of the solar panels S to ensure that a clamping force applied to the edge region of the panels is substantially uniformly distributed. The clamping rails 60, 60' are secured to respective mounting rails 20 in clamping engagement with the edge region(s) E of the respective solar panel(s). The fastening bolt 61 is threaded and is adapted to engage with the partial thread of the surface profile formed on the walls 24 forming the first channel 22.

With reference to Figs. 9 and 10 of the drawings, the cross-sections of a standard clamping rail 60 and a peripheral clamping rail 60' are shown. Each clamping rail 60, 60' is provided with (e.g. three) holes 62 spaced apart along the length thereof for receiving a respective fastening bolt or screw 61. Each clamping rail 60, 60' also includes at least one elongate cavity or channel 63, an opening of which is bounded by an outer flange element 64 and inner flange element 65, for receiving a strip- or pad-like seating element 30 for direct contact with the surface of the solar panel S in the edge region E thereof received in the panel seating area 21 - i.e. in a manner directly analogous to the provision of the seating elements 30 in the second channels 27 formed in the mounting rails 20, as described above.

Each of the clamping rails 60, 60' incorporates stop means, provided here in the form of rib- or fin-like projections 66, for stopping or limiting the clamping force applied to the edge regions E of the solar panels S. With reference to Figs. 5 and 6 of the drawings, when the fastening bolt 61 is tightened by screwing it into the partially threaded profile in the walls 24 of the first channel 22, the head of the bolt 61 draws the clamping rail 60 down upon the edge regions E of the solar panels received in the panel seating area 21. Each of the strip-like rubber seating elements 30 engages the upper and lower surfaces of the solar panels S in the edge regions E received in the panel seating areas 21 and is compressed as the clamping force applied by the fastening bolt 61 increases. For a given thickness of the solar panels S, the thickness of each of the strip-like seating elements 30 is selected in combination with the height of the projections 66 so that, after a predetermined amount of tightening of the fastening bolt 61 , the projections 66 engage an upper surface 56 of the body portion 51 of the spacer element 50.

Similarly, each of the spacer elements 50 also includes stop means for stopping or limiting the clamping force applied to the solar panels. These stop means may also be in the form of one or more projections, in this case a pair of upstanding ridge-like projections 57, which are adapted to engage an underside 67 of the clamping rail. Accordingly, after the bolts 61 have been turned and tightened a predetermined amount, the projections 66 on the underside of the clamping rail 60 engage the upper surface 56 of the spacer element 50 and the projections 57 at the upper side of the spacer element 50 engage the underside 67 of the clamping rail 60. As each of the spacer elements 50 is relatively rigid (i.e. substantially less compressible than the rubber seating elements 30), the body portions 51 of the spacer elements seated on the bearing surfaces 23 of the mounting rail 20 limit the clamping force applied to the edge regions E of the solar panels.

As can be seen in Fig. 12 of the drawings, three of the spacer elements 50 are provided spaced apart along the longitudinal length of the mounting rail 20. The fastening bolts 61 do not directly engage with the spacer elements 50, but rather simply extend through the elongated aperture or slot 55 located centrally in each of the spacer elements 50. The elongated form of each aperture 55 simplifies the registration between the spacer elements 50 and the three bolt holes 62 formed in each of the clamping rails 60, 60'. In this regard, it will be noted that the spacer elements 50 are typically positioned on the mounting rails 20 by hand by the person assembling the mounting system 100. Thus, after the mounting frame 10 is assembled on the supporting structure (i.e. in this case, the pitched roof), the spacer elements 50 are placed on the mounting rails 20 by inserting the tongue- like projections 52 into the first channel 22 at the upper side of the mounting rail. The individual spacer elements 50 are placed to approximately correspond to the positions of the bolt holes 62 formed in each of the clamping rails 60, 60' to be fastened later. The elongate nature of the aperture 55 therefore provides a certain amount of "play" or flexibility in the positioning of the spacer elements 50 and does not require a precise alignment or registration with the fastening holes 62 in the clamping rails 60, 60'. The spacer elements 50 are ultimately held fixed in their positions through the clamping effect described above. In addition, however, a degree of interference between outer surfaces of the tongue-like projections 52 and the profiled surface of the walls 24 inside the first channel 22 may serve to hold (e.g. lightly hold) the spacer elements 50 at the positions where they are placed by the worker to avoid inadvertent and unwanted movement (e.g. sliding movement) of the spacer elements 50 out of their positions along the mounting rails 20 before the clamping members 60, 60' are applied.

With particular reference now Figs. 12 to 18 of the drawings, the assembly of the mounting frame 10 in the mounting system 100 of the invention will be described - i.e. before the solar panels S are placed on and fixed to the mounting frame 10. In this connection, it will be noted that the mounting frame 10, in addition to the mounting rails 20, includes a plurality of elongate support members or support rails 70 upon which the mounting rails 20 are supported and rigidly secured. The support rails 70 are designed to be secured on the roof structure via footings 71 . The footings 71 incorporate fastening means for rigidly fastening the footings, and thus the support rails 70, to the roof structure. For example, the footings 71 in this example include angled bracket members 72 having a fastening plate 73 provided with a plurality of holes or apertures for receiving fasteners, such as screws or bolts, to effect a rigid attachment to the roof structure. The support rails 70 are mounted at an end region of the bracket member 72 and extend substantially parallel to the roof surface.

Once the footings 71 are secured to the roof structure with the support rails 70 extending laterally across the roof surface, the mounting rails 20 are then placed on the supporting rails 70 so as to extend perpendicular thereto. As noted above, the mounting rails 20 are arranged substantially parallel and are spaced apart from one another, centred at distances just slightly larger than the width of the solar panels S to be subsequently mounted thereon. (Note: The distance between centres of the adjacent mounting rails will typically exceed the width of the solar panels S by an amount approximately corresponding to the width of the spacer elements 50 - i.e. typically in the range of about 10 mm to 50 mm). Thus, the mounting rails 20 are arranged extending up the roof surface at essentially the same angle of inclination as the pitched roof itself and care must be taken to avoid the mounting rails 20 inadvertently sliding off the supporting rails 70 before they have been rigidly secured to the supporting rails. According to the present invention, therefore, the mounting rails 20 are configured to include an arresting element 36 which is adapted to project from a lower side of the mounting rails 20 for engagement with the supporting rails 70 on which the mounting rails are to be rigidly secured. That is, the arresting element 36 engages and interacts with the supporting rail 70 to prevent the mounting rails 20 from inadvertently slipping down the inclination.

As can be clearly seen in each of the drawings Figs. 15 to 18, the arresting element 36 is in the form of a bolt which is secured in the third channel 29 formed in the underside of the mounting rail 20. In particular, a hexagonal head of the bolt is axially inserted and fits easily within the rectangular cavity of the third channel 29 and is retained therein by the opposite flange elements 32. The position of the arresting element 36 within the third channel 29, and therefore with respect to the mounting rail 20 itself, is fixed by a nut 37 which is screwed onto the bolt as shown in Figs. 17 and 18. The outer surface of the nut 37 may therefore provide a contact surface for engagement with the support rail 70 during placement and positioning of the mounting rails 20. This is particularly evident, for example, from Fig. 18 of the drawings.

After the mounting rails 20 have been placed on the support rails 70 by the person assembling the mounting frame 10, the mounting rails 20 are then rigidly secured to the support rails 70 using angle members or L-shaped brackets 80, which can be seen in Figs. 5 and 6 and Figs. 13 to 18 of the drawings. As is evident from Figs. 5 and 6, the angle members or L-shaped brackets 80 have a ribbed profile designed to complement and to engage the ribbed surfaces of the upper and lower flange elements 34, 35 on the laterally opposite sides of the mounting rails 20. This fastening arrangement includes another threaded bolt-type fastener 81 having a plate-like head element 82 designed for insertion in the rectangular cavities 33 formed at the sides of the mounting rails 20. The threaded end of the bolt 81 then extends through the angle member or L-shaped bracket 80 for fastening with a complementary nut 83. A similar attachment mechanism may be used for effecting the rigid connection between the angle member or L-shaped bracket 80 and the support rail 70 via a further bolt and nut fastener arrangement.

After the mounting frame 10 is securely and rigidly assembled and established on the pitched roof, the worker can commence placing the solar panels S in their respective positions. In this regard, the retaining elements 40, which were rigidly pre-assembled with the mounting rails 20, not only clearly indicate the position of the lower peripheral edge P of the respective^* solar panels S, they also prevent any undesired movement of the panels before the panels are clamped in position. Similarly, the spacer elements 50 located along the lengths of the mounting rails 20 clearly delimit the panel seating area 21 on each of the mounting rails and protect the susceptible edge regions E of the glass sheets from damage.

After the solar panels have been placed in their mounting positions, the clamping rails 60, 60' are then applied to securely fix the edge regions E of the solar panels to the mounting rails 20, as described above.

A preferred feature of the mounting frame 10 which is shown in Fig. 1 but was not previously described concerns connector elements 90, which are employed for interconnecting two mounting rails 20 in the axial or longitudinal direction. For example, each mounting rail 20 may have a length corresponding to one or two solar panel S, with the arrangement of multiple mounting members 20 in the axial direction being effected via connector elements 90. The connector elements 90 are designed to be snugly received within the hollow section of the mounting members 20 (optionally with an at least partially corresponding section) with, for example, one half of the connector element 90 being received in one mounting member 20 and the other half of the connector element 90 being received in the other mounting member 20.

It will be appreciated that the above description of the preferred embodiments of the invention with reference to the drawings has been made by way of example only. Accordingly, a person skilled in the art will appreciate that various changes, modifications and/or additions may be made to the parts particularly described and illustrated without departing from the scope of the invention as defined in the appended claims.

Claims

Claims:

1. Mounting system (100) for mounting one or more solar panels, comprising: a mounting frame (10) having a plurality of elongate mounting members (20) adapted to be arranged and secured spaced apart and substantially parallel to one another; wherein each of the mounting members (20) is adapted to receive an edge region (E) of a solar panel (S) for fixing same such that each solar panel (S) extends between at least two mounting members (20); characterized by at least one retaining element (40) provided on one or more of the elongate mounting members (20) and adapted to prevent the solar panel (S) from slipping in an axial or longitudinal direction from the mounting members (20) before the solar panel is affixed thereto.

2. Mounting system (100) according to claim 1 , wherein an area (21 ) on the mounting member (20) for receiving and fixing the edge region (E) of the solar panel (S) extends longitudinally of the mounting member (20) along and substantially parallel to said edge region (E).

3. Mounting system (100) according to claim 2, wherein the at least one retaining element (40) comprises a body portion (41 ) that presents an abutment surface (46) adapted to engage with and support a peripheral edge (P) of the solar panel (S), and wherein the abutment surface (46) of the retaining element (40) projects substantially perpendicularly to the axial or longitudinal extent of the respective mounting member (20).

4. Mounting system (100) according to claim 3, wherein the abutment surface (46) of the retaining element (40) projects substantially upwardly and/or laterally of the area (21 ) on the mounting member for receiving the solar panel (S).

5. Mounting system (100) according to claim 4, wherein each mounting member (20) is adapted for receiving and fixing an edge region (E) of a solar panel (S) at laterally opposite sides thereof, wherein an abutment surface (46) of the retaining element (40) projects upwardly and/or laterally of areas (21 ) on the mounting member (20) for receiving and fixing the edge region (E) of the solar panel (S).

6. Mounting system (100) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the at least one retaining element (40) is attached at a longitudinal end region of the respective mounting member (20).

7. Mounting system (100) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein each retaining element (40) comprises attachment means for rigidly attaching the retaining element (40) to the respective mounting member (20), said attachment means preferably including an aperture (43) for receiving a fastener (44).

8. Mounting system (100) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the at least one retaining element (40) comprises locating means for locating or positioning the retaining element (40) in a predetermined orientation on the respective mounting member (20).

9. Mounting system (100) according to claim 8, wherein the locating means comprises one or more protrusion (47) for insertion into or receipt within a corresponding recess (27) formed in the mounting member (20).

10. Mounting system (100) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the plurality of elongate mounting members (20) are fabricated from a substantially rigid and robust material, preferably a metal such as steel or aluminium, and wherein the at least one retaining elements (40) is fabricated from a synthetic material, such as a polymer plastic.

1 1. Mounting system (100) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein each of the plurality of elongate mounting members (20) is substantially straight and includes a longitudinally extending first channel or slot (22) for attaching a clamping member (60, 60') adapted to clamp and securely hold the solar panel (S) fixed to the mounting member (20), the first channel (22) preferably being located centrally of the mounting member and opening to an upper side thereof.

12. Mounting system (100) according to claim 1 1 , wherein the first channel or slot (22) includes securing means, preferably in the form of a surface profile, such as an at least partial screw thread and/or serrations, designed to interact with a complementary fastener.

13. Mounting system (100) according to any one of the preceding claims, further comprising: at least one spacer element (50) adapted to be provided on each of the elongate mounting members (20) along a longitudinal extent thereof, wherein each spacer element (50) at least partly defines a limit or boundary of the panel receiving area (21 ) on the respective mounting member (20).

14. Mounting system (100) for mounting one or more solar panels, comprising: a mounting frame (10) having a plurality of elongate mounting members (20) adapted to be arranged and secured spaced apart and substantially parallel to one another; wherein each of the mounting members (20) is adapted for receiving and fixing an edge region (E) of a solar panel (S) such that each solar panel (S) extends between a pair of the mounting members (20); characterized by at least one spacer element (50) to be provided on the elongate mounting members (20) along their longitudinal extent, wherein each spacer element (50) at least partially delimits an area (21 ) on the mounting member (21 ) for receiving the solar panel (S).

15. Mounting system (100) according to claim 13 or claim 14, wherein each mounting member (20) is adapted to receive an edge region (E) of a solar panel (S) at laterally opposite sides thereof, wherein the at least one spacer element (50) is adapted to separate two panel receiving areas (21 ) of the mounting member (20).

16. Mounting system (100) according to claim 15, wherein the at least one spacer element (50) comprises a body portion (51 ) adapted to be located between the two panel receiving areas (21 ) on an upper side of the mounting member (20), wherein the body portion (51 ) presents surfaces (54) that respectively define a limit or boundary of each of the panel receiving areas (21 ) on the mounting member (20), and wherein each limiting surface (54) is adapted to be located or positioned adjacent a peripheral edge (P) of a solar panel (S) fixed on the mounting member (20).

17. Mounting system (100) according to any one of claims 13 to 16, wherein the at least one spacer element (50) comprises locating means for locating or positioning that spacer element (50) in a predetermined orientation on the respective mounting member (20).

18. Mounting system (100) according to claim 17, wherein the locating means comprises one or more projection (52) from the body portion (51 ) of the spacer element (50), such as one or more tongue, for insertion into or receipt within a corresponding recess, such as the first channel (22), formed in the respective elongate mounting member (20).

19. Mounting system (100) for mounting one or more solar panels, comprising: a mounting frame (10) having a plurality of elongate support members (70) adapted to be secured on a base structure, and a plurality of elongate mounting members (20) adapted to be rigidly secured on the support members (70) arranged spaced apart and substantially parallel to one another, wherein each of the mounting members (20) is adapted to receive and hold an edge region (E) of a solar panel (S) such that each solar panel (S) extends between at least two of the mounting members (20); characterized in that the elongate mounting members (20) are configured to include an arresting element (36) that prevents the mounting members (20) from slipping or sliding relative to the support members (70) before the mounting members (20) are rigidly secured on the support members (70).

20. Mounting system (100) according to claim 19, wherein the arresting element (36) is adapted to project from a lower side of the mounting members (20) for engagement with the support members (70) on which the mounting members (20) are to be rigidly secured.

21. Mounting system (100) according to claim 20, wherein the lower side of the mounting members (20) comprises a recess (29) for positioning and/or attaching the arresting element (36), wherein the arresting element can be adjustably positioned and/or attached within or along the recess (29).

22. Mounting system (100) according to claim 21 , wherein the recess is formed as a longitudinally extending third channel, such that the arresting element can be adjustably positioned within the third channel in a slidable manner.

23. Mounting system (100) according to any one of the preceding claims, further comprising fixing means for securely fixing the one or more solar panels (S) to the elongate mounting members (20), wherein the fixing means preferably comprises at least one clamping member (60, 60') adapted to clamp and securely hold the one or more solar panels (S) fixed in position on each of the mounting members (20).

24. Mounting system (100) according to claim 23, wherein the clamping member (60, 60') is elongate and is adapted to extend along the edge region (E) of the solar panel (S) received on an upper side of the respective mounting member (20), and wherein the fixing means further comprises one or more fastener (61 ) for attaching the clamping member (60, 60') to the respective mounting member (20) in clamping engagement with the edge region (E) of the solar panel (S).

25. Mounting system (100) according to any one of the preceding claims, further comprising one or more solar panels (S) adapted to be mounted on the mounting frame (10).

26. Mounting system (100) according to any one of claims 14 to 25, wherein an area (21 ) on the mounting member (20) for receiving and fixing the edge region (E) of the solar panel (S) extends longitudinally of the mounting member (20) along and substantially parallel to said edge region (E).

27. Positioning element (40, 50) for limiting movement of a solar panel (S) on an elongate mounting member (20) of a mounting system for mounting one or more solar panels on a pitched roof, the positioning element (40, 50) comprising: a body portion (41 , 51 ) presenting an abutment surface (46, 54) for engagement with a peripheral edge (P) of a solar panel (S) and forming a stop or limit to a panel receiving area (21 ) on the mounting member (20), and locating means adapted to locate the positioning element (40, 50) on the mounting member (20) such that the abutment surface (46, 54) adopts a predetermined orientation with respect to the panel receiving area

(21 ) on the mounting member (20).

28. Positioning element (40, 50) according to claim 27, wherein the locating means is adapted interact with complementary means or structures on the mounting member (20).

29. Positioning element (40, 50) according to claim 28, wherein the locating means comprises at least one protrusion (47, 52) for receipt in a complementary recess (27, 22) formed in the mounting member (20).

30. Positioning element (40, 50) according to any one of claims 27 to 29, wherein the locating means is adapted to permit axial or longitudinal displacement and/or adjustment of the positioning element (40, 50) along the length of the mounting member (20) while maintaining the abutment surface (46, 54) in the predetermined orientation on the mounting member.

31. Positioning element (40, 50) according to any one of claims 27 to 30, further comprising attachment means (43, 55) for releasably attaching the positioning element (40, 50) to the mounting member (20).

32. Positioning element (40, 50) according to any one of claims 27 to 31, wherein the positioning element is configured as a retaining element (40) adapted to prevent the solar panel (S) from sliding in a longitudinal or axial direction relative to the mounting member (20) before the solar panel (S) is affixed thereto.

33. Positioning element (40, 50) according to any one of claims 27 to 31 , wherein the positioning element is formed as a spacer element (50) to be provided along the longitudinal extent of the elongate mounting member (20), the spacer element (50) being adapted to longitudinally separate two panel receiving areas (21 ) of the mounting member (20).

34. Mounting rail (20) for mounting a solar panel thereto, comprising: at least one panel seating area (21 ) formed at an upper side of the mounting rail (20), the panel seating area (21 ) being adapted to receive and support an edge region (E) of the solar panel (S), wherein the panel seating area (21 ) extends longitudinally of the mounting rail (20) and substantially parallel to the edge region (E) of the solar panel (S) to be received thereon; a first channel (22) which extends longitudinally of the mounting rail (20) adjacent the at least one panel seating area (21 ), the first channel (22) opening to the upper side of the mounting rail (20); characterized in that the first channel (22) is adapted to receive a fastener (61 ) for securely attaching a clamping member (60, 60') adapted to clamp and securely hold the solar panel (S) fixed in position in the seating area (21 ) of the mounting rail (20).

35. Mounting rail (20) according to claim 34, wherein the first channel (22) is located approximately centrally of the mounting member (20) and is substantially not covered by the solar panel (S) when the edge region (E) of the solar panel (S) is received and supported in the panel seating area (21 ).

36. Mounting rail (20) according to claim 34 or claim 35, wherein the first channel (22) includes securing means adapted to engage a complementary fastener, the securing means preferably comprising a surface profile, such as a partial screw thread, formed in a surface within the first channel (22).

37. Mounting rail (20) according to any one of claims 34 to 36, comprising two panel seating areas (21 ) formed at the upper side of the mounting rail (20), the two panel seating areas (21 ) extending generally parallel to the first channel (22) on laterally opposite sides thereof.

38. Mounting rail (20) according to any one of claims 34 to 37, wherein each panel seating area (21 ) on the mounting rail (20) includes a seating element (30), such as a pad or strip, which is adapted to cushion the edge region (E) of the solar panel (S) received in the panel seating area (21 ), the seating element (30) preferably formed of a relatively soft and resilient material, such as a synthetic rubber.

39. Mounting rail (20) according to any one of claims 34 to 38, further comprising an elongate clamping member (60, 60'), preferably formed as a clamping rail, adapted to clamp and securely hold the solar panel (S) fixed in position in the seating area (21 ) of the mounting rail (20).