Abstract: A method of making a photovoltaic panel includes previously preparing one or more pre-formed substrates with a first temperature and pressure to be non-planar, textured, embossed, colored, or combinations thereof. A manufacturer can then prepare a laminate assembly comprising one or more organic photovoltaic components one or more pre-formed substrates, and a barrier layer with one or more thermally-activated thermoplastic tie layers there between. The manufacturer can then finish the photovoltaic panel lamination by subjecting the assembly to a second set of temperatures and pressures sufficient to activate and bond the pre-formed substrate, barrier layer, and photovoltaic components without significantly softening the pre-formed substrates or otherwise degrading/damaging the organic photovoltaic components. A non-planar panel made by this method can be used in both exterior and interior decorative and/or structural applications where electrical generation is desired.

Abstract: A front-loadable track mounting system can include a track and mounting nut. The mounting nut and track can include corresponding features that allow a user to insert the mounting nut into a front opening in the track, and selectively lock the mounting nut in a desired position along the track. For example, the track can include opposing rails extending into the front opening of the track. The mounting nut can include that one or more ribs configured to rotate against the opposing rails of the track, and thereby, rotatably lock the mounting nut relative to the track.

Abstract: In general, implementations of the present invention include devices, systems, and components for mounting and/or displaying panels and panel structures with one or more post modules. The post modules, according to the present invention, can include a post, which can secure one or more panels, and covers that can conceal the post from view. Additionally, the post modules can have hollow channels between the covers and the post, which can house wires, cords, lighting elements, and other components.

Abstract: Washer assemblies for mounting panels to a support without damaging the panels include a countersunk washer and a sleeve. In one implementation, the washer assemblies are configured to at least partially prevent the formation of hoop stresses within a panel, and uniformly transmit forces created by a fastener to a panel. The washer assemblies can be configured to enhance the function, look, feel, or aesthetic of a panel system. In addition, systems of at least one implementation of the present invention include a plurality of panels mounted to one or more supports using one or more washer assemblies and methods of mounting such systems.

Abstract: A compact fastener configured to latch a sliding partition to a second structure can include an actuator configured to move a hook in and out of a locked position. In one or more implementations, compact fastener can further include a pin extending from the actuator into a slot in the hook. As the actuator rotates, the pin can slide along the groove causing the hook to rotate. Additionally, in one or more implementations, the actuator can rotate about a first axis, and the hook can rotate about a second axis offset from the first axis. The fastener can further include one or more of a latch handle and a lock configured to rotate the actuator. The lock can include a dowel pin that extends into a groove of the actuator.

Abstract: A variable angle panel mounting system can include at least one variable-angle panel mounting member, which in turn includes an elongate support member and an angularly-adjustable mounting plate adapted to secure an end of the elongate support member to a plurality of mounting surface angles. In some embodiments, the variable angle panel mounting system may also include a pressure-fit mounting system. These components can provide the ability to angularly and vertically adjust the variable-angle panel mounting member between opposing support surfaces.

Abstract: Implementations of the present invention relate to a translucent and/or transparent polymer-based panel system that incorporates multi-colored insert layers that enable manipulation of color, transparency or light transmission of the finished panel system. Implementations of the present invention also relate to the construction of such panels to avoid the capture and retention of air within the panels through the use of textured surfaces at the lamination interfaces. In addition, implementations of the present invention provide a method of quantifying the optical response achieved in a given panel system and describes types of construction that enable the multiplicity of color and optic manipulation. Furthermore, implementations of the present invention provide methods for applying texture in an efficient, uniform manner.

Abstract: A decorative architectural glass panel comprises a two or more glass sheets separated by a resin in which one or more decorative objects are suspended. A method of making the glass panel comprises positioning one or more spacers and one or more decorative objects on a first glass sheet, placing a second glass sheet about the first glass sheet, sealing the edges of the first glass sheet and second glass sheet, and filling the space between the first and second glass sheets with a curable liquid resin. The resin can be poured using a substantially horizontal pour in order to keep the decorative objects from substantially shifting when pouring the liquid resin. The resin can also be poured in combination with a vacuum force. In some implementations, the glass panel may also be substituted with a resin panel using polymeric resin sheets.

Abstract: A structured-core laminate panel can be made in an efficient, structurally sound manner without the use of adhesives (film or liquid forms) using materials with different melt or glass transition temperatures. In one implementation, a manufacturer positions one or more resin substrates about a structured core, which comprises a relatively high melt or glass transition temperature compared with that of the one or more resin substrates. The manufacturer heats the assembly to at least the glass transition temperature of the resin substrates, but not to the melt or glass transition temperature of the structured core. This allows the one or more resin substrates to melt and bond (mechanically, chemically, or both) to the structured core on one side (or inner surface), while maintaining a substantially planar or original conformation on an opposing side (or outer surface).

Abstract: A roller door system includes one or more sets of rollers configured to mount to a panel frame member on an upper end of a panel, and move through a complementary upper guide. A lower side of the panel frame can also be guided through one or more bottom tracks. These components, when coupled with the resin panel, can provide the ability to provide a smooth gliding motion for the resin panel door. In addition, the frame in which the panel is mounted can be configured with one or more components to accommodate the unique expansion and contraction properties of resin materials, and thus allow a stable, long term mounting solution. The upper guide and the lower track can also be configured with one or more components or mechanisms for pitch adjustment, as well as to adjust for uneven or irregular mounting surfaces.