Patents by Inventor Jack Raymond West

Jack Raymond West has filed for patents to protect the following inventions. This listing includes patent applications that are pending as well as patents that have already been granted by the United States Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO).

  • Publication number: 20170104118
    Abstract: A PV module framing and coupling system which enables the attachment of PV modules to a roof or other mounting surface without requiring the use of separate structural support members which attach directly to and span between multiple PV modules in a formed PV array and a cable management system that holds, directs, organizes, and otherwise manages cables, wires, cord, and similar components of and relating to a PV array.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 7, 2013
    Publication date: April 13, 2017
    Inventors: Jack Raymond West, Tyrus Hudson, Brian West
  • Patent number: 9599280
    Abstract: A system and apparatus are disclosed including PV modules having a frame allowing quick and easy assembling of the PV modules into a PV array in a sturdy and durable manner. In examples of the present technology, the PV modules may have a grooved frame where the groove is provided at an angle with respect to a planar surface of the modules. Various couplings may engage within the groove to assemble the PV modules into the PV array with a pivot-fit connection. Further examples of the present technology operate with PV modules having frames without grooves, or with PV modules where the frame is omitted altogether.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 1, 2014
    Date of Patent: March 21, 2017
    Assignee: SolarCity Corporation
    Inventors: Jack Raymond West, Tyrus Hawkes Hudson
  • Patent number: 9574588
    Abstract: A photovoltaic (PV) module framing and coupling system enables the attachment of PV modules to a roof or other mounting surface without requiring the use of separate structural support members which attach directly to and span between multiple PV modules in a formed PV array. The apparatus provides a parallel coupling for securely interlocking the outside surfaces of parallel frame members together in a side to side arrangement to form an array with improved structural load distribution. The coupling may attach to a slot in the frame at substantially any position along the length of the frame thereby enabling the interconnection of adjacent PV modules along both an x and y axis. The apparatus may further provide a rotating portion and locking portion, mounting brackets for direct connection to a mounting surface, grounding teeth, and a twist-lock engagement means for interlocking and aligning PV modules in the array.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 1, 2012
    Date of Patent: February 21, 2017
    Assignee: SolarCity Corporation
    Inventors: Jack Raymond West, Hans-Christoph Haenlein
  • Patent number: 9548696
    Abstract: A solar array with successive rows of photovoltaic modules angled in opposing directions forming peaks and valleys between the rows with the valleys (i.e.: lower sides of the photovoltaic module rows) being mounted close together and the peaks (i.e.: upper sides of the photovoltaic module rows) being mounted far apart to improve system aerodynamics and permit ease of access for installers. Included is a system for connecting the upper sides of the photovoltaic modules to connectors that slide on bars extending between upper and lower mounting bases and for pivot locking the lower sides of the photovoltaic modules to the lower mounting bases.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 18, 2015
    Date of Patent: January 17, 2017
    Assignee: SolarCity Corporation
    Inventors: Brian Atchley, Geoffrey Fedoroff, Joe O'Connor, Jack Raymond West, Ian Crecelius
  • Patent number: 9518596
    Abstract: A system and apparatus are disclosed including PV modules having a frame allowing quick and easy assembling of the PV modules into a PV array in a sturdy and durable manner. In examples of the present technology, the PV modules may have a grooved frame where the groove is provided at an angle with respect to a planar surface of the modules. Various couplings may engage within the groove to assemble the PV modules into the PV array with a pivot-fit connection. Further examples of the present technology operate with PV modules having frames without grooves, or with PV modules where the frame is omitted altogether.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 7, 2014
    Date of Patent: December 13, 2016
    Assignee: SolarCity Corporation
    Inventors: Jack Raymond West, Tyrus Hawkes Hudson, Nathaniel Coleman
  • Patent number: 9496821
    Abstract: A photovoltaic (PV) module framing and coupling system enables the attachment of PV modules to a roof or other mounting surface without requiring the use of separate structural support members which attach directly to and span between multiple PV modules in a formed PV array. The inventive apparatus provides a parallel coupling for securely interlocking the outside surfaces of parallel frame members together in a side to side arrangement to form an array with improved structural load distribution. The inventive coupling member may attach to a slot in the frame at substantially any position along the length of the frame thereby enabling the interconnection of adjacent PV modules along both an x and y axis.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 15, 2014
    Date of Patent: November 15, 2016
    Assignee: SolarCity Corporation
    Inventors: Jack Raymond West, Christina C. Manansala, Hans-Christoph Haenlein
  • Patent number: 9461579
    Abstract: A photovoltaic (PV) module framing and coupling system enables the attachment of PV modules to a roof or other mounting surface without requiring the use of separate structural support members which attach directly to and span between multiple PV modules in a formed PV array. The apparatus provides a parallel coupling for securely interlocking the outside surfaces of parallel frame members together in a side to side arrangement to form an array with improved structural load distribution. The coupling may attach to a slot in the frame at substantially any position along the length of the frame thereby enabling the interconnection of adjacent PV modules along both an x and y axis. The apparatus may further provide a rotating portion and locking portion, mounting brackets for direct connection to a mounting surface, grounding teeth, and a twist-lock engagement means for interlocking and aligning PV modules in the array.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 12, 2015
    Date of Patent: October 4, 2016
    Assignee: SolarCity Corporation
    Inventors: Jack Raymond West, Hans-Christoph Haenlein
  • Patent number: 9447801
    Abstract: A photovoltaic (PV) module framing and coupling system enables the attachment of PV modules to a roof or other mounting surface without requiring the use of separate structural support members which attach directly to and span between multiple PV modules in a formed PV array. The apparatus provides a parallel coupling for securely interlocking the outside surfaces of parallel frame members together in a side to side arrangement to form an array with improved structural load distribution. The coupling may attach to a slot in the frame at substantially any position along the length of the frame thereby enabling the interconnection of adjacent PV modules along both an x and y axis. The apparatus may further provide a rotating portion and locking portion, mounting brackets for direct connection to a mounting surface, grounding teeth, and a twist-lock engagement means for interlocking and aligning PV modules in the array.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 24, 2012
    Date of Patent: September 20, 2016
    Assignee: SolarCity Corporation
    Inventor: Jack Raymond West
  • Publication number: 20160261230
    Abstract: An interlocking system for connecting photovoltaic module frames to a torque tube, including: (a) an interlock dimensioned to be positioned between the sides of two adjacent photovoltaic module frames; (b) a pair of couplings or flanges, wherein the couplings or flanges connect the interlock to both of the adjacent photovoltaic module frames; and (c) a U-lock connected to the interlock, wherein the U-lock is dimensioned to be connected to a torque tube.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 12, 2016
    Publication date: September 8, 2016
    Inventors: Jack Raymond West, Tyrus Hawkes Hudson, David Molina, Brian Atchley
  • Patent number: 9428903
    Abstract: A tile hook and flashing assembly, having: (a) a lower flashing; (b) an upper flashing; (c) a tile hook; and (d) a seal, wherein tile hook extends through an aperture passing between overlapping portions of the upper and lower flashings, and wherein the seal extends across the aperture and seals around the tile hook.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 15, 2014
    Date of Patent: August 30, 2016
    Assignee: SolarCity Corporation
    Inventors: Jack Raymond West, Emil Johansen, David Molina
  • Publication number: 20160248367
    Abstract: Photovoltaic mounting systems having sealant injection system are provided herein. Such sealant injection systems provide improved directional control of sealant flow and improved sealing of roof penetrations during mounting with one or more fasteners. Such systems can include a bracket assembly having a removable sealant injection package. The sealant injection package includes a collapsible sealant injection reservoir and is adapted to provide directionally controlled release of sealant upon collapse. Such a system can further include sealant injection guides that direct flow of sealant during mounting and pads or caps that cover and enclose the injected sealant so as to ensure adequate sealing of any roof penetrations and maintain its integrity over time. Such systems further allow for sealant injection packages to be interchanged or replaced as needed and allow for ready removal or replacement of the bracket after mounting while maintaining the seal of any roof penetrations.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 23, 2015
    Publication date: August 25, 2016
    Inventors: Charles Almy, Tyrus Hawkes Hudson, Jack Raymond West
  • Publication number: 20160210940
    Abstract: A fingernail pick having improved fingernail attachment systems and playing surfaces that are shaped for improved sound quality and ease of playing of stringed instruments.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 19, 2016
    Publication date: July 21, 2016
    Applicant: GLISSPHONIC LLC
    Inventors: Jack Raymond West, Britton Yates West
  • Patent number: 9397607
    Abstract: A photovoltaic module mounting assembly including a photovoltaic module lever lock and base portion for attaching photovoltaic modules to a roof surface. The base portion includes one or more parallel channels that provide access to one or more corresponding recesses formed in a top surface of the base portion. The lever lock includes a lobe at one end, a torque lever at the other and supports a photovoltaic module connector. The lobe is dimensioned to fit into the channel at a first orientation, and upon rotation of approximately 90 degrees, to fit into the recess at a second orientation. The module connector may support two or more photovoltaic modules.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 15, 2015
    Date of Patent: July 19, 2016
    Assignee: SolarCity Corporation
    Inventors: Brian Atchley, Tyrus Hudson, David Molina, Jack Raymond West
  • Patent number: 9347691
    Abstract: An interlocking system for connecting photovoltaic module frames to a torque tube, including: (a) an interlock dimensioned to be positioned between the sides of two adjacent photovoltaic module frames; (b) a pair of couplings or flanges, wherein the couplings or flanges connect the interlock to both of the adjacent photovoltaic module frames; and (c) a U-lock connected to the interlock, wherein the U-lock is dimensioned to be connected to a torque tube.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 26, 2014
    Date of Patent: May 24, 2016
    Assignee: SolarCity Corporation
    Inventors: Jack Raymond West, Tyrus Hawkes Hudson, David Molina, Brian Atchley
  • Publication number: 20160102460
    Abstract: Roof-mounted venting devices adapted for use with roof mounted photovoltaic (PV) panels are provided. Venting devices and assemblies can include a replacement flashing that fits over a cut-down roof pipe vent as well as venting assemblies that redirect airflow from a roof pipe vent. Such replacement flashing can include a substantially planar flashing portion having a raised portion for accommodating any residual flashing or roofing debris. Such replacement flashing may further include a hood portion with one or more vent openings to allow airflow into and out from the interior of the hood portion. Venting assemblies can include a coupling portion for mating with a vent-pipe, a section of hose or piping to redirect airflow, and a venting portion disposed outside or between roof-mounted solar panels.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 13, 2015
    Publication date: April 14, 2016
    Inventors: Jack Raymond West, Brian Atchley, Johann Karkheck
  • Patent number: 9300244
    Abstract: A photovoltaic (PV) module framing and coupling system enables the attachment of PV modules to a roof or other mounting surface without requiring the use of separate structural support members which attach directly to and span between multiple PV modules in a formed PV array. The apparatus provides a parallel coupling for securely interlocking the outside surfaces of parallel frame members together in a side to side arrangement to form an array with improved structural load distribution. The coupling may attach to a slot in the frame at substantially any position along the length of the frame thereby enabling the interconnection of adjacent PV modules along both an x and y axis. The apparatus may further provide a rotating portion and locking portion, mounting brackets for direct connection to a mounting surface, grounding teeth, and a twist-lock engagement means for interlocking and aligning PV modules in the array.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 14, 2014
    Date of Patent: March 29, 2016
    Assignee: SolarCity Corporation
    Inventors: Jack Raymond West, Hans-Christoph Haenlein
  • Patent number: D759464
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 20, 2015
    Date of Patent: June 21, 2016
    Assignee: SolarCity Corporation
    Inventor: Jack Raymond West
  • Patent number: D765591
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 12, 2015
    Date of Patent: September 6, 2016
    Assignee: SolarCity Corporation
    Inventors: Jack Raymond West, Tyrus Hawkes Hudson, Emil Johansen
  • Patent number: D772432
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 6, 2015
    Date of Patent: November 22, 2016
    Assignee: SOLARCITY CORPORATION
    Inventor: Jack Raymond West
  • Patent number: D779308
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 29, 2015
    Date of Patent: February 21, 2017
    Assignee: SolarCity Corporation
    Inventors: Jack Raymond West, Tyrus Hawkes Hudson, Emil Johansen