WO2014072505A1 - A frame member for supporting panels - Google Patents

A frame member for supporting panels Download PDF

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Publication number
WO2014072505A1
WO2014072505A1 PCT/EP2013/073498 EP2013073498W WO2014072505A1 WO 2014072505 A1 WO2014072505 A1 WO 2014072505A1 EP 2013073498 W EP2013073498 W EP 2013073498W WO 2014072505 A1 WO2014072505 A1 WO 2014072505A1
Authority
WO
WIPO (PCT)
Prior art keywords
frame member
frame
solar
panels
solar power
Prior art date
Application number
PCT/EP2013/073498
Other languages
French (fr)
Inventor
Jordi Aragonès JUNCOSA
Carles Beltran CAPDEVILA
Original Assignee
Biosun Consultors Sociedad Limitada
Priority date (The priority date 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 date listed.)
Filing date
Publication date
Application filed by Biosun Consultors Sociedad Limitada filed Critical Biosun Consultors Sociedad Limitada
Publication of WO2014072505A1 publication Critical patent/WO2014072505A1/en

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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
    • 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
    • F24S25/30—Arrangement of stationary mountings or supports for solar heat collector modules using elongate rigid mounting elements extending substantially along the supporting surface, e.g. for covering buildings with solar heat collectors
    • F24S25/33—Arrangement of stationary mountings or supports for solar heat collector modules using elongate rigid mounting elements extending substantially along the supporting surface, e.g. for covering buildings with solar heat collectors forming substantially planar assemblies, e.g. of coplanar or stacked profiles
    • F24S25/35—Arrangement of stationary mountings or supports for solar heat collector modules using elongate rigid mounting elements extending substantially along the supporting surface, e.g. for covering buildings with solar heat collectors forming substantially planar assemblies, e.g. of coplanar or stacked profiles by means of profiles with a cross-section defining separate supporting portions for adjacent modules
    • 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
    • F24S2025/80—Special profiles
    • 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
    • F24S2025/80—Special profiles
    • F24S2025/804—U-, C- or O-shaped; Hat profiles
    • 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
    • F24S25/10—Arrangement of stationary mountings or supports for solar heat collector modules extending in directions away from a supporting surface
    • F24S25/13—Profile arrangements, e.g. trusses
    • 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

  • the invention is included within the field of manufacturing of a special purpose structural/ frame member manufactured from metal of any other material and in the field of assembly structures for supporting of panels.
  • solar power panels/modules can be assembled in portrait or landscape position. From the point of view of efficiency, the best solution is to put the solar modules in landscape position, but solar power panels/module mounting system in landscape position it is more costly than module mounting system in portrait position.
  • the steel roll formed section (c) to which are attached the clamps (a) is a "C".
  • the disadvantage of using this type of profile is that, it is usually necessary to use an angular piece for fastening the frames of the structure (b).
  • the use of clamps (a) for holding the solar panels/modules and the angular piece for fastening the frames of the structure (b) greatly increases the cost of the structure and assembly time.
  • profile section (c) must be increased to be used, as discussed above.
  • the main object of this invention is to design metallic/non-metallic structural/ frame
  • Another object of the invention is to construct frame structure for mounting the so!ar panels within less time and with less labour/man hours.
  • Yet another object of the invention is to provide an intermediate longitudinal stiffener at webs to increase the effective section properties against lateral buckling and reducing the material cost of the frame members used.
  • Another object of the invention is to facilitate direct fastening of the solar panel to the bottom frame thereby avoiding requirement of complicated and costly clamps.
  • the present invention discloses a frame member ( 1 1) especially the profile of the frame member comprising of at least one trapezoidal cross sectional shape forming the top of the frame member ( 1 1 ); plurality of folds ( 1 ,2,3,4 and 7,8,9, 10) at intermediate point on one or both webs of said trapezoidal cross section of the frame member ( 1 1 ); at least one longitudinal stiffener (3,4 or 7,8) provided at intermediate point on one or both webs of said trapezoidal cross section of the frame member ( 1 1 ) wherein said longitudinal stiffener (3,4 or 7,8) forms a seat for the panels (14); longitudinal base (1 , 2 and 9, 10) of said folds are provided with plurality of recess for fastening said frame member ( 1 1 ) to main frame ( 13) and; clamps ( 15) optionally clamped at top portion (5,6) of the frame member ( 1 1 ).
  • the frame member ( 1 1 ) are metallic or non-metallic.
  • the plurality of intermediate folds ( 1 ,2,3,4 and 7,8,9, 10) at webs are provided for stiffening said frame member longitudinally, to increase the mechanical properties of the section and improving the overall performance of section against lateral buckling.
  • the inter connection of said frame members ( 1 1 ) forms a mounting frame for the solar panels.
  • the trapezoidal cross sectional shape forming the top of the frame member ( 1 1 ) is of height equal to the thickness of the solar power panel to be mounted.
  • the width of said longitudinal stiffener (3,4 or 7,8) varies with the solar power panel to be mounted and the distance of holes from edge of solar panel frame.
  • the frame members ( 1 1) are of thinner gauges of sheet metal or any other material with higher strength.
  • the profile of the frame member ( 1 1 ) is configured to provide a rigid support to the solar power panels ( 14) between any two frame members ( 1 1 ) without temporary fastening and prevents movement of solar power panels during assembly.
  • the frame member ( 1 1 ), with stiffeners on both sides is configured to support said solar power panel module ( 14) from its both sides.
  • the frame member (1 1) with a single stiffener on one side forms the boundary/end elements of the mounting frame and is configured to supports solar power panel ( 14) from one side.
  • the solar power panel ( 14) supported on frame member ( 1 1 ) with less width of longitudinal stiffener (3,4 or 7,8) are provided for direct fastening of the solar panel ( 14) to the bottom frame ( 13) without clamps (15).
  • the frame member ( 1 1) with greater width of longitudinal stiffener (3,4 or 7,8) are provided for fastening of the solar panel ( 14) on said width of longitudinal stiffener (3,4 or 7,8) of the frame member ( 1 1 ) which in turn is fastened to the bottom frame ( 13) along the longitudinal base ( 1 ,2 and 9, 10) of the frame member ( 1 1 ).
  • the frame members (1 1 ) are manufactured by extrusion or rolling, by cold forming and metal plates from high strength steel sheets with coating protection by zinc alloys such as galvanized and zinc and aluminium alloys or high strength non-metallic materials.
  • FIG 1 shows the conventional mounting arrangement for the solar panels (prior art).
  • FIG 2 shows the different types of clamps to suit different types of solar panels/modules (prior art)
  • Figure 3 shows the site view of the frame structure erected and the scale/quantity of frame structure required for a solar power generation plant set-up (prior art).
  • Figure 4 shows one embodiment of the invention.
  • Figure 5 shows the direct fastening of the solar panel to the main frame.
  • Figure 6 shows the frame member held by main structure and solar power panel is fastened with clamps to structural element.
  • Figure 7 shows the fastening of the solar panel at end frame member.
  • Figure 8 shows the profile defined by its folds ( 1 to 10).
  • Figure 9 shows the views of end frame member with direct fastening of the solar panel to the bottom frame.
  • Figure 10 shows the views of frame member with direct fastening of the solar panel to the bottom frame.
  • Figure 1 1 shows the views of end frame member with fastening of the solar panel to the frame member.
  • Figure 12 shows the views of frame member with direct fastening of the solar panel to the frame member.
  • FIG. 13 shows the solar panel assembly according to the invention.
  • the present invention discloses about the metallic/non-metallic frame member especially the profile of the frame member which are tailor made in a prerequisite shapes which will ease the assembling of the panels especially solar panels on the constructed frame structure within less time and with very less labour/man hours.
  • the frame member used at the junctions i.e. the one which is capable of supporting the solar panels from both of its edges/sides.
  • the frame members which are used as the ends boundary of the frame structure i.e. the one which is designed of supporting solar panels from one edge/side only.
  • the metallic/non-metallic structural element with new design are invented. These metal structural elements are cost effective, light in weight, and requires less man hours for assembling and easy access to the fastening provisions and its alignments with the various structural elements, etc.
  • the object of this invention is to design metallic/non-metallic frame member profile which are tailor made in a prerequisite profile/shapes which will ease the assembling of the solar panels on the constructed frame structure within less time and with very less man hours.
  • These shapes are commonly called “omega” or “top-hat”, which are used in the field of building and in the field of power generation from solar energy.
  • These "omega” shape or “top-hat” sections are further provided with an intermediate longitudinal stiffener at webs to increase the effective section properties against lateral buckling.
  • the present invention discloses about the metallic/non-metallic frame member especially the profile of the frame member which are tailor made in a prerequisite shapes which will ease the assembling of the solar panels on the constructed frame structure within less time and with very less labour/man hours.
  • the invention solves three technical problems, all on the line to reduce the construction costs of support structures for power generation from solar energy, to provide more stiffness with light weight structural elements and facilitate mounting of the solar panels with simple clamps or without using clamps.
  • FIG. 8 shows the various profiles defined by its folds ( 1 to 10).
  • the frame member ( 1 1) is provided with intermediate folds 1 ,2,3,4 and 7,8,9, 10 at webs of the typical shape "Omega" or "top-hat” which will function as longitudinal stiffeners to increase the mechanical properties of the section and consequently improves the overall performance of section especially against lateral buckling.
  • the part 3, 4 and 7, 8 of the fold of these stiffeners also work as a seat for the solar power panel ( 14).
  • the height 'h' depends on the thickness of the solar power panel used.
  • the dimension 'x' depends on the specifications of the solar power panel/module manufacturer, mainly distance of holes to edge of module frame.
  • Figure 8a shows a profile shape of the frame member ( 1 1), with a single stiffener on one side of the frame member. This type of frame member is used in cases in which only solar power panel module ( 14) places on one side of the profile.
  • Figure 8b shows a profile shape of the frame member (1 1 ), with stiffeners on both sides of the frame member.
  • This type of frame member ( 1 1 ) is used in cases in which the solar power panel module (14) is to be placed on either side of the frame member profile.
  • the described shape of the frame member ( 1 1 ) can be used for direct fastening of the solar panel to the bottom frame as shown thereby optionally using the clamps (15). (also see Figures 9, 10)
  • Figure 8c shows a profile shape of the frame member ( 1 1 ) wherein such frame member ( 1 1 ) is to be used in the case where the screws ( 12) between the solar power panel ( 14) with the profile "Omega” or “Top-Hat” ( 1 1 ) should stay in the dimension ' ⁇ ', according to one of the manufacturer's specifications (also see figures 1 1 and 12).
  • frame members also reduce the amount of labour during assembly, as the solar power panels of the solar generators can be left simply supported/rested between these two frame members during its assembly without temporary fastening. This is possible because of the shape of the profile of the frame member ( 1 1 ) prevents movement of solar power panels during assembly, which eliminates the requirement of operators or any machinery for holding solar power panels during the clamping operation. The required manpower is for implementing the fasteners on the solar panels for fastening purpose.
  • Figure 6 shows a preferred application including metallic/non-metallic frame member ( 1 1 ), held by main structure ( 13) and solar power panel (14) is fastened with clamps ( 15) to the structural shape ( 1 1).
  • the profile longitudinal stiffener is performed as shown in Figures 8 to 12 defined by 1 ,2,3, 4 and 7,8,9, 10 and in an intermediate point of one or both webs of "Omega" shape.
  • the trapezoid height defined by 4,5,6 and 7 will be approximately same as thickness of the solar power panel, taking into account the thickness of the clamp as well as the required thickness of gasket if it's necessary.
  • the frame members ( 1 1 ) can be made, among other methods, by extrusion or rolling, by cold forming and metal plates can be used with corrosion coating, being suggested, among others, high strength steel sheets with coating protection by zinc alloys such as galvanized and zinc and aluminium alloys among others.
  • the solar power panels ( 14) are supported on part defined between 3 and 4 and between 7 and 8.
  • the clamping of solar power panels ( 14) will be located depending on its own generator characteristics on the seat defined by 3 and 4 and between 7 and 8 or between 1 and 2 and between 9 and 10, as reflected in Figs 8 to 12.
  • the fastening (12) systems can be mechanical as bolts, screws, and rivets and through adhesives.

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  • Engineering & Computer Science (AREA)
  • Physics & Mathematics (AREA)
  • Life Sciences & Earth Sciences (AREA)
  • Sustainable Development (AREA)
  • Sustainable Energy (AREA)
  • Thermal Sciences (AREA)
  • Chemical & Material Sciences (AREA)
  • Combustion & Propulsion (AREA)
  • Mechanical Engineering (AREA)
  • General Engineering & Computer Science (AREA)
  • Photovoltaic Devices (AREA)

Abstract

The present invention discloses a frame member (11) especially the profile of the frame member comprising of at least one trapezoidal cross sectional shape forming the top of the frame member (11); plurality of folds (1,2,3,4 and 7,8,9,10) at intermediate point on one or both webs of said trapezoidal cross section of the frame member (11); at least one longitudinal stiffener (3,4 or 7,8) provided at intermediate point on one or both webs of said trapezoidal cross section of the frame member (11) wherein said longitudinal stiffener (3,4 or 7,8) forms a seat for the panels (14); longitudinal base (1, 2 and 9, 10) of said folds are provided with plurality of recess for fastening said frame member (11) to main frame (13) and; clamps (15) optionally clamped at top portion (5,6) of the frame member (11).

Description

Ά FRAME MEMBER FOR SUPPORTING PANELS"
FIELD OF INVENTION
The invention is included within the field of manufacturing of a special purpose structural/ frame member manufactured from metal of any other material and in the field of assembly structures for supporting of panels.
BACKGROUND OF INVENTION
In the field of frame members it is known that there exists a large variety of structural/frame member in different materials and shapes. In the field of power generation from solar energy, various metallic or non-metallic frame member shapes are used to form supporting structures for holding solar panel of solar power generators. In fact many structural/frame member shapes are already used in the field of building construction.
In photovoltaic installations, solar power panels/modules can be assembled in portrait or landscape position. From the point of view of efficiency, the best solution is to put the solar modules in landscape position, but solar power panels/module mounting system in landscape position it is more costly than module mounting system in portrait position.
For power generator module assembly in landscape position, usually it's possible to find solutions like those shown in the Figure 1 . In option 1 , (Figure l a) the PV modules are tied to the frame with special metal clamps (a) to a steel cold formed section (c). There are different types of clamps to suit different types of solar panels/modules (framed or unframed), and these different measures that exist in the market are (30, 35, 40, 45, 50 mm ).
In this option we can see that the steel roll formed section (c) to which are attached the clamps (a) is a "C". The disadvantage of using this type of profile is that, it is usually necessary to use an angular piece for fastening the frames of the structure (b). The use of clamps (a) for holding the solar panels/modules and the angular piece for fastening the frames of the structure (b) greatly increases the cost of the structure and assembly time.
In option 2 (Figure l b) we can see a variation of the above, in which is not necessary the use of clamps to hold modules. This solution uses standard bolts holding the module using the mounting holes (d) of the modules which are provided for this purpose. To do this, it is necessary to extend flanges of roll formed section (c) to use the holes in modules, because distance of mounting holes to edge of module. In this solution also see the angular piece (b) for fastening to the frames of the structure.
With this solution, saves cost and time to dispense with the holding clamps of power generator module of solar origin. But on the other hand, profile section (c) must be increased to be used, as discussed above.
Among the available frame sections many metallic/non-metallic sections are already used for erecling/supporting/mounting of the solar power generation system, there are various ways, which in turn are manufactured with multiple variations according to its end application and the degree of stiffness required. But many a times the metal sections available are very complicated in use as well as they are very costly. Hence there is a necessity for developing/designing metallic/non-metallic sections which will suit for the mounting of the solar panels in a modern and cost effective way. Also such metallic/non-metallic sections should be tailor made and of suitable shape which will ease the assembling of the solar panels on the constructed frame structure for mounting of solar panels. The solar panels are assembled on the constructed frame structure within less time and less labour/man hours as compared to the conventional methods of assembling.
OBJECTS OF INVENTION
• The main object of this invention is to design metallic/non-metallic structural/ frame
member sections which are tailor made in a prerequisite shapes which will ease the assembling of the solar panels. • Another object of the invention is to construct frame structure for mounting the so!ar panels within less time and with less labour/man hours.
• Yet another object of the invention is to provide an intermediate longitudinal stiffener at webs to increase the effective section properties against lateral buckling and reducing the material cost of the frame members used.
• Another object of the invention is to facilitate direct fastening of the solar panel to the bottom frame thereby avoiding requirement of complicated and costly clamps.
SUMMARY OF INVENTION
Accordingly the present invention discloses a frame member ( 1 1) especially the profile of the frame member comprising of at least one trapezoidal cross sectional shape forming the top of the frame member ( 1 1 ); plurality of folds ( 1 ,2,3,4 and 7,8,9, 10) at intermediate point on one or both webs of said trapezoidal cross section of the frame member ( 1 1 ); at least one longitudinal stiffener (3,4 or 7,8) provided at intermediate point on one or both webs of said trapezoidal cross section of the frame member ( 1 1 ) wherein said longitudinal stiffener (3,4 or 7,8) forms a seat for the panels (14); longitudinal base (1 , 2 and 9, 10) of said folds are provided with plurality of recess for fastening said frame member ( 1 1 ) to main frame ( 13) and; clamps ( 15) optionally clamped at top portion (5,6) of the frame member ( 1 1 ).
The frame member ( 1 1 ) are metallic or non-metallic. The plurality of intermediate folds ( 1 ,2,3,4 and 7,8,9, 10) at webs are provided for stiffening said frame member longitudinally, to increase the mechanical properties of the section and improving the overall performance of section against lateral buckling. The inter connection of said frame members ( 1 1 ) forms a mounting frame for the solar panels.
The trapezoidal cross sectional shape forming the top of the frame member ( 1 1 ) is of height equal to the thickness of the solar power panel to be mounted. The width of said longitudinal stiffener (3,4 or 7,8) varies with the solar power panel to be mounted and the distance of holes from edge of solar panel frame. The frame members ( 1 1) are of thinner gauges of sheet metal or any other material with higher strength. The profile of the frame member ( 1 1 ) is configured to provide a rigid support to the solar power panels ( 14) between any two frame members ( 1 1 ) without temporary fastening and prevents movement of solar power panels during assembly.
The frame member ( 1 1 ), with stiffeners on both sides is configured to support said solar power panel module ( 14) from its both sides. The frame member (1 1) with a single stiffener on one side forms the boundary/end elements of the mounting frame and is configured to supports solar power panel ( 14) from one side.
The solar power panel ( 14) supported on frame member ( 1 1 ) with less width of longitudinal stiffener (3,4 or 7,8) are provided for direct fastening of the solar panel ( 14) to the bottom frame ( 13) without clamps (15).
The frame member ( 1 1) with greater width of longitudinal stiffener (3,4 or 7,8) are provided for fastening of the solar panel ( 14) on said width of longitudinal stiffener (3,4 or 7,8) of the frame member ( 1 1 ) which in turn is fastened to the bottom frame ( 13) along the longitudinal base ( 1 ,2 and 9, 10) of the frame member ( 1 1 ).
The frame members (1 1 ) are manufactured by extrusion or rolling, by cold forming and metal plates from high strength steel sheets with coating protection by zinc alloys such as galvanized and zinc and aluminium alloys or high strength non-metallic materials.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF FIGURES
Figure 1 shows the conventional mounting arrangement for the solar panels (prior art).
Figure 2 shows the different types of clamps to suit different types of solar panels/modules (prior art)
Figure 3 shows the site view of the frame structure erected and the scale/quantity of frame structure required for a solar power generation plant set-up (prior art).
Figure 4 shows one embodiment of the invention. Figure 5 shows the direct fastening of the solar panel to the main frame.
Figure 6 shows the frame member held by main structure and solar power panel is fastened with clamps to structural element.
Figure 7 shows the fastening of the solar panel at end frame member.
Figure 8 shows the profile defined by its folds ( 1 to 10).
Figure 9 shows the views of end frame member with direct fastening of the solar panel to the bottom frame.
Figure 10 shows the views of frame member with direct fastening of the solar panel to the bottom frame.
Figure 1 1 shows the views of end frame member with fastening of the solar panel to the frame member.
Figure 12 shows the views of frame member with direct fastening of the solar panel to the frame member.
Figure 13 shows the solar panel assembly according to the invention.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION
The present invention discloses about the metallic/non-metallic frame member especially the profile of the frame member which are tailor made in a prerequisite shapes which will ease the assembling of the panels especially solar panels on the constructed frame structure within less time and with very less labour/man hours.
There are at least two types of metallic/non-metallic frame members required to form a frame structure on which the solar panels can be mounted by eliminating the above mentioned drawbacks. The frame member used at the junctions i.e. the one which is capable of supporting the solar panels from both of its edges/sides. The frame members which are used as the ends boundary of the frame structure i.e. the one which is designed of supporting solar panels from one edge/side only. In order to overcome the drawbacks associated in the conventional method for erection of the structure for mounting the solar panels, the metallic/non-metallic structural element with new design are invented. These metal structural elements are cost effective, light in weight, and requires less man hours for assembling and easy access to the fastening provisions and its alignments with the various structural elements, etc.
The object of this invention is to design metallic/non-metallic frame member profile which are tailor made in a prerequisite profile/shapes which will ease the assembling of the solar panels on the constructed frame structure within less time and with very less man hours. These shapes are commonly called "omega" or "top-hat", which are used in the field of building and in the field of power generation from solar energy. These "omega" shape or "top-hat" sections are further provided with an intermediate longitudinal stiffener at webs to increase the effective section properties against lateral buckling.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION
I
The present invention discloses about the metallic/non-metallic frame member especially the profile of the frame member which are tailor made in a prerequisite shapes which will ease the assembling of the solar panels on the constructed frame structure within less time and with very less labour/man hours. The invention solves three technical problems, all on the line to reduce the construction costs of support structures for power generation from solar energy, to provide more stiffness with light weight structural elements and facilitate mounting of the solar panels with simple clamps or without using clamps.
As per the invention Figures 8, 9, 10, 1 1 and 12 shows the various profiles defined by its folds ( 1 to 10). The frame member ( 1 1) is provided with intermediate folds 1 ,2,3,4 and 7,8,9, 10 at webs of the typical shape "Omega" or "top-hat" which will function as longitudinal stiffeners to increase the mechanical properties of the section and consequently improves the overall performance of section especially against lateral buckling. The part 3, 4 and 7, 8 of the fold of these stiffeners also work as a seat for the solar power panel ( 14). As shown in figure 8 the height 'h' depends on the thickness of the solar power panel used. The dimension 'x' depends on the specifications of the solar power panel/module manufacturer, mainly distance of holes to edge of module frame.
Figure 8a: shows a profile shape of the frame member ( 1 1), with a single stiffener on one side of the frame member. This type of frame member is used in cases in which only solar power panel module ( 14) places on one side of the profile.
Figure 8b: shows a profile shape of the frame member (1 1 ), with stiffeners on both sides of the frame member. This type of frame member ( 1 1 ) is used in cases in which the solar power panel module (14) is to be placed on either side of the frame member profile. Moreover the described shape of the frame member ( 1 1 ) can be used for direct fastening of the solar panel to the bottom frame as shown thereby optionally using the clamps (15). (also see Figures 9, 10)
Figure 8c: shows a profile shape of the frame member ( 1 1 ) wherein such frame member ( 1 1 ) is to be used in the case where the screws ( 12) between the solar power panel ( 14) with the profile "Omega" or "Top-Hat" ( 1 1 ) should stay in the dimension 'χ', according to one of the manufacturer's specifications (also see figures 1 1 and 12).
These metallic/non-metallic frame members profiles provide more stablility against collapse due to lateral buckling., Hence the section shape is more important to provide the resistance depending upon the material from which it is made. The new profile shape allows using thinner gauges of sheet metal or any other material and thereby reduce the amount of material used and consequently the cost of the product.
These frame members also reduce the amount of labour during assembly, as the solar power panels of the solar generators can be left simply supported/rested between these two frame members during its assembly without temporary fastening. This is possible because of the shape of the profile of the frame member ( 1 1 ) prevents movement of solar power panels during assembly, which eliminates the requirement of operators or any machinery for holding solar power panels during the clamping operation. The required manpower is for implementing the fasteners on the solar panels for fastening purpose.
Figure 6 shows a preferred application including metallic/non-metallic frame member ( 1 1 ), held by main structure ( 13) and solar power panel (14) is fastened with clamps ( 15) to the structural shape ( 1 1).
By implementation of these metallic/non-metallic frame members the use of complicated and costly clamps is eliminated and simple clamps are used for clamping of solar panels on the frame. The new set of clamps (15) are used for clamping of the solar panels ( 14). The described shape of the frame member ( 1 1 ) can be used for direct fastening of the solar panel to the bottom frame as shown in Figures 9 and 10 thereby avoiding clamps ( 15) or using together, clamps and direct fastening ( 12) as a redundant measure, in the first case a part of the mechanical advantage is the fact to avoid clamps is giving an economic advantage and in the second case, due to suitable dimensioning of the central trapezoid, formed by the folds 4, 5, 6 and 7, the clamp ( 15) is much simpler to use than the conventional clamps that are currently used in the industry (Ref: figure 2), therefore having improved cost also.
The profile longitudinal stiffener is performed as shown in Figures 8 to 12 defined by 1 ,2,3, 4 and 7,8,9, 10 and in an intermediate point of one or both webs of "Omega" shape. The trapezoid height defined by 4,5,6 and 7 will be approximately same as thickness of the solar power panel, taking into account the thickness of the clamp as well as the required thickness of gasket if it's necessary.
The frame members ( 1 1 ) can be made, among other methods, by extrusion or rolling, by cold forming and metal plates can be used with corrosion coating, being suggested, among others, high strength steel sheets with coating protection by zinc alloys such as galvanized and zinc and aluminium alloys among others.
The solar power panels ( 14) are supported on part defined between 3 and 4 and between 7 and 8. The clamping of solar power panels ( 14) will be located depending on its own generator characteristics on the seat defined by 3 and 4 and between 7 and 8 or between 1 and 2 and between 9 and 10, as reflected in Figs 8 to 12. The fastening (12) systems can be mechanical as bolts, screws, and rivets and through adhesives.
The foregoing description is a specific embodiment of the present invention. It should be appreciated that this embodiment is described for purpose of illustration only, and that numerous alterations and modifications may be practiced by those skilled in the art without departing from the spirit and scope of the invention. It is intended that all such modifications and alterations be included insofar as they come within the scope of the invention as claimed or the equivalents thereof.

Claims

We Claim:
1. A frame member (1 1 ) comprising of
at least one trapezoidal cross sectional shape forming the top of the frame member ( 1 1 ); plurality of folds (1,2,3,4 and 7,8,9,10) at intermediate point on one or both webs of said trapezoidal cross section of the frame member (1 1 );
at least one longitudinal stiffener (3,4 or 7,8) provided at intermediate point on one or both webs of said trapezoidal cross section of the frame member (1 1 ) wherein said longitudinal stiffener (3,4 or 7,8) forms a seat for the panels (14);
longitudinal base (1, 2 and 9, 10) of said folds are provided with plurality of recess for fastening said frame member (1 1) to main frame (13) and;
clamps (15) optionally clamped at top portion (5,6) of the frame member (1 1 ).
2. The frame member (1 1 ) as claimed in claim 1 wherein said frame member (1 1 ) is metallic or non-metallic and said panels ( 14) are the solar panels.
3. The frame member (1 1 ) as claimed in claim 2 wherein said plurality of intermediate folds (1 ,2,3,4 and 7,8,9,10) at webs are provided for stiffening said frame member longitudinally, to increase the mechanical properties of the section and improving the overall performance of section against lateral buckling,
4. The frame member ( 11 ) as claimed in claim 2 wherein inter connection of said frame members ( 1 1 ) forms a mounting frame for the solar panels ( 14).
5. The frame member (1 1) as claimed in claim 2 wherein said trapezoidal cross sectional shape forming the top of the frame member (1 1 ) is of height equal to the thickness of the solar power panel (14) to be mounted.
6. The frame member (1 1) as claimed in claim 2 wherein the width of said longitudinal stiffener (3,4 or 7,8) varies with the solar power panel to be mounted and the distance of holes from edge of solar panel frame.
7. The frame member (1 1) as claimed in claim 2 wherein said frame members (1 1 ) are of thinner gauges of sheet metal or any other material with higher strength.
8. The frame member (1 1 ) as claimed in claim 2 wherein the profile of the frame member (1 1) is configured to provide a rigid support to the solar power panels ( 14) between any two frame members (11) without temporary fastening and prevents movement of solar power panels during assembly.
9. The frame member (1 1) as claimed in claim 2 wherein said the frame member (1 1 ), with stiffeners on both sides is configured to support said solar power panel module (14) from its both sides.
10. The frame member (1 1 ) as claimed in claim 2 wherein said frame member (1 1 ) with a single stiffener on one side forms the boundary/end elements of the mounting frame and is configured to supports solar power panel ( 14) from one side.
1 1. The frame member (1 1) as claimed in claim 2 wherein said solar power pane! (14) supported on frame member (1 1 ) with less width of longitudinal stiffener (3,4 or 7,8) are provided for direct fastening of the solar panel ( 14) to the bottom frame (13) without clamps ( 15).
12. The frame member ( 1 1 ) as claimed in claim 2 wherein said frame member ( 1 1 ) with greater width of longitudinal stiffener (3,4 or 7,8) are provided for fastening of the solar panel (14) on said width of longitudinal stiffener (3,4 or 7,8) of the frame member (1 1) which in turn is fastened to the bottom frame ( 13) along the longitudinal base (1 ,2 and 9, 10) of the frame member ( 1 1 ).
13. The frame member (1 1 ) as claimed in claim 2 wherein said frame members (1 1 ) are manufactured by extrusion or rolling, by cold forming and metal plates from high strength steel sheets with coating protection by zinc alloys such as galvanized and zinc and aluminum alloys or high strength non-metallic materials.
PCT/EP2013/073498 2012-11-09 2013-11-11 A frame member for supporting panels WO2014072505A1 (en)

Applications Claiming Priority (2)

Application Number Priority Date Filing Date Title
IN1296KO2012 2012-11-09
IN1296/KOL/2012 2012-11-09

Publications (1)

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WO2014072505A1 true WO2014072505A1 (en) 2014-05-15

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Application Number Title Priority Date Filing Date
PCT/EP2013/073498 WO2014072505A1 (en) 2012-11-09 2013-11-11 A frame member for supporting panels

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WO (1) WO2014072505A1 (en)

Cited By (1)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
US20220352846A1 (en) * 2021-04-28 2022-11-03 James E. Straeter Ground mounted solar power assembly

Citations (5)

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Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
JP2000220258A (en) * 1999-01-29 2000-08-08 Hideo Fujita Enclosure body for solar battery module panel and enclosure plate used therefor
EP2103755A2 (en) * 2008-03-17 2009-09-23 Imeco S.R.L. Roofing panels
EP2190030A2 (en) * 2008-11-22 2010-05-26 Roto Frank Ag Photovoltaic unit, photovoltaic system and method for manufacturing a photovoltaic unit
FR2945561A1 (en) * 2009-05-12 2010-11-19 Denis Braud Photovoltaic module fixing system for e.g. roof of building, has fixation unit connected to photovoltaic module and fixed on counter-plate for maintaining photovoltaic module on covering surface by clamping
FR2951208A1 (en) * 2009-10-12 2011-04-15 Le Triangle Soc Device for fixing photovoltaic modules on sealed roof of e.g. dwelling, has longitudinal gutters arranged parallel to each other, and arranged remote from base surfaces of OMEGA shaped base profile for forming receiving spaces

Patent Citations (5)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
JP2000220258A (en) * 1999-01-29 2000-08-08 Hideo Fujita Enclosure body for solar battery module panel and enclosure plate used therefor
EP2103755A2 (en) * 2008-03-17 2009-09-23 Imeco S.R.L. Roofing panels
EP2190030A2 (en) * 2008-11-22 2010-05-26 Roto Frank Ag Photovoltaic unit, photovoltaic system and method for manufacturing a photovoltaic unit
FR2945561A1 (en) * 2009-05-12 2010-11-19 Denis Braud Photovoltaic module fixing system for e.g. roof of building, has fixation unit connected to photovoltaic module and fixed on counter-plate for maintaining photovoltaic module on covering surface by clamping
FR2951208A1 (en) * 2009-10-12 2011-04-15 Le Triangle Soc Device for fixing photovoltaic modules on sealed roof of e.g. dwelling, has longitudinal gutters arranged parallel to each other, and arranged remote from base surfaces of OMEGA shaped base profile for forming receiving spaces

Cited By (2)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
US20220352846A1 (en) * 2021-04-28 2022-11-03 James E. Straeter Ground mounted solar power assembly
US11817814B2 (en) * 2021-04-28 2023-11-14 James E. Straeter Ground mounted solar power assembly

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