Abstract: A solar mounting system includes at least one photovoltaic module (“PV module”) having a module frame and a support structure including at least one elongated support rail configured to support the at least one photovoltaic module (“PV module”). A fastener assembly or hardware stack is used to mount and secure the at least one PV module to the elongated support rail of the solar mounting system. The fastener assembly includes a fastener having a fastener head including at least one abutment surface that prevents rotation of the fastener during mounting of the PV module to the support structure, and, optionally, at least one projection that pierces a protective coating applied to the PV module to thereby establish an electrical bond and grounding of the PV module with the support structure during installation.

Abstract: Apparatus and method for providing active helix prevention for a solar tracker system including a plurality of photovoltaic modules mounted in a single row and at least one drive motor configured to synchronously rotate the plurality of photovoltaic modules about an axis of rotation. First and second angle detectors are provided to generate first and second angle data indicative of first and second angles of rotation of the plurality of photovoltaic modules in the row at first and second locations. A controller compares the first angle data and the second angle data and transitions the at least one drive motor from an operative state to an inoperative state if there is a difference between the first angle data and the second angle data that meets or exceeds a predetermined angle deviation.

Abstract: A solar tracker includes a rotatable portion including a plurality of solar modules, at least a portion of each of the modules being arranged in a row and electrically coupled to each other in series to define at least one string. A motor is operatively coupled to the rotatable portion and configured to supply torque to the rotatable portion for rotating the rotatable portion about an axis. At least one electrical characteristic sensor and at least one controller are in operative communication with the motor and with the at least one electrical characteristic sensor. The at least one controller is configured to instruct the motor to supply torque to the rotatable portion in response to one or more signals received by the at least one controller from the at least one electrical characteristic sensor. A method of operating a solar tracking system is also disclosed.

Abstract: A solar tracker includes a rotatable portion including a plurality of solar modules, at least a portion of each of the modules being arranged in a row and electrically coupled to each other in series to define at least one string. A motor is operatively coupled to the rotatable portion and configured to supply torque to the rotatable portion for rotating the rotatable portion about an axis. At least one electrical characteristic sensor and at least one controller are in operative communication with the motor and with the at least one electrical characteristic sensor. The at least one controller is configured to instruct the motor to supply torque to the rotatable portion in response to one or more signals received by the at least one controller from the at least one electrical characteristic sensor. A method of operating a solar tracking system is also disclosed.