Platelike Patents (Class 211/41.1)
  • Patent number: 11962263
    Abstract: A solar panel assembly includes a base having tubular bodies, a support unit including support frames connected between the tubular bodies and supporting rods extending upwardly from the supporting frames, a solar power panel disposed on the supporting rods, and a reflector plate disposed between the base and the solar panel to reflect light rays to a bottom surface of the solar panel. A solar power system includes a plurality of the aforesaid solar panel assemblies and multiple connectors.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 5, 2021
    Date of Patent: April 16, 2024
    Assignee: SUN RISE E & T CORPORATION
    Inventor: Chi-Hsu Tung
  • Patent number: 11545930
    Abstract: Disclosed are a photovoltaic frame and a photovoltaic module. The photovoltaic frame includes a top support portion, a bottom support portion, a transverse edge portion, a first side edge portion and a second side edge portion. The top support portion, the transverse edge portion and the second side edge portion enclose a holding slot. The photovoltaic frame further includes a first weather-resistant protective layer configured to cover a part of outer surfaces of the top support portion, the bottom support portion, the first side edge portion, the second side edge portion and the transverse edge portion, and a second weather-resistant protective layer configured to cover at least part of the outer surfaces that are not covered by the first weather-resistant protective layer. A thickness of the second weather-resistant protective layer is less than a thickness of the first weather-resistant protective layer.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 26, 2022
    Date of Patent: January 3, 2023
    Assignees: JINKO SOLAR CO., LTD., ZHEJIANG JINKO SOLAR CO., LTD.
    Inventors: Xinxin Gong, Zhiqiu Guo, Junhui Liu, Zehui Zhang
  • Patent number: 11356053
    Abstract: The embodiments of the present disclosure relate to the field of photovoltaic module technology, and provide a photovoltaic frame, a photovoltaic module and a method for manufacturing the photovoltaic frame. The photovoltaic frame comprises: a top support portion, a bottom support portion and a transverse edge portion. The top support portion and the transverse edge portion enclose a holding slot, and the top support portion has a bearing surface facing the holding slot. The bottom support portion is arranged opposite to the top support portion, and the transverse edge portion is located at one side of the top support portion away from the bottom support portion. The photovoltaic frame is molded by a carbon steel sheet material after processing.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 6, 2020
    Date of Patent: June 7, 2022
    Assignees: JINKO SOLAR CO., LTD., ZHEJIANG JINKO SOLAR CO., LTD.
    Inventors: Xinxin Gong, Zhiqiu Guo, Junhui Liu, Zehui Zhang
  • Patent number: 11196187
    Abstract: In various representative aspects, the present invention relates generally to providing an apparatus for securing a solar panel module to a solar panel rail guide structure. More specifically, the invention relates to providing an end clamp that mounts a bottom flange of a solar panel module to a solar panel rail guide structure. The end clamp does not require any tools for insertion. It mechanically fastens and electrically bonds the solar panel module to a solar panel rail guide structure.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 11, 2020
    Date of Patent: December 7, 2021
    Assignee: Ironridge, Inc.
    Inventors: Jon Ash, Anumeha Narain, Joseph Sirochman
  • Patent number: 10931225
    Abstract: Systems and methods for mounting one or more framed solar modules are disclosed. A solar module mounting system can include a plurality of support members configured to support one or more framed solar modules above a mounting surface, such as the ground or the roof of a building. The support members can include rails formed from a rigid material, such as steel. The solar module mounting system can also include a plurality of attachment mechanisms each configured to secure a portion of a framed solar module to a portion of a respective one of the support members.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 16, 2019
    Date of Patent: February 23, 2021
    Assignee: PanelClaw Group, Inc.
    Inventors: Hanghai Yang, Joseph Armano, Vasilije Jovanovic, John de Papp
  • Patent number: 10898981
    Abstract: A first plate-like member on a bottom surface side is disposed in a horizontal direction. A second plate-like member is disposed in a vertical direction. A first position restricting mechanism is engaged with a first end portion including a first side that opposes the first plate-like member in a workpiece in a state where the workpiece stands while a front surface and a rear surface of the plate-like workpiece are along a vertical direction, and restricts the position of the first end portion in a plate thickness direction. A second position restricting mechanism is engaged with a second end portion including a second side that opposes the second plate-like member in the workpiece, and restricts the position of the second end portion in the plate thickness direction.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 19, 2018
    Date of Patent: January 26, 2021
    Assignee: AMADA HOLDINGS CO., LTD.
    Inventors: Abraham Andujo, Hiroki Tsuruta
  • Patent number: 10720351
    Abstract: This specification describes methods for processing semiconductor wafers, methods for loading semiconductor wafers into wafer carriers, and semiconductor wafer carriers. The methods and wafer carriers can be used for increasing the rigidity of wafers, e.g., large and thin wafers, by intentionally bowing the wafers to an extent that does not break the wafers. In some examples, a method for processing semiconductor wafers includes loading each semiconductor wafer into a respective semiconductor wafer slot of a semiconductor wafer carrier, horizontally bowing each semiconductor wafer, and moving the semiconductor wafer carrier into a processing station and processing the semiconductor wafers at the processing station while the semiconductor wafers are loaded into the semiconductor wafer carrier and horizontally bowed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 31, 2018
    Date of Patent: July 21, 2020
    Assignee: SunPower Corporation
    Inventor: Emmanuel Chua Abas
  • Patent number: 10164565
    Abstract: A method of using a solar panel support apparatus for selectively positioning a solar panel contained thereon comprises securing forward and rearward legs to the ground or an affixed structure. A solar panel is supported by a rack having an end pivotally attachable to the forward leg. First and second arms pivotally connected to one another pivotally attach to the forward leg and the rack permitting the rack to be positionable relative the forward leg. A locking mechanism locks the first arm and the second arm at a selected angle relative to one another, whereupon securing the rearward and the forward leg to the ground or an affixed structure the rack is pivotal to position the solar panel. Upon positioning the rack to place the solar panel at a selected position, the locking mechanism is engaged to retain the solar panel at the selected position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 26, 2016
    Date of Patent: December 25, 2018
    Inventor: Charles B. Borgstrom
  • Patent number: 10050581
    Abstract: A frame profile (1) for a solar cell laminate (10) includes a laminate clamping section (2), which comprises two parallel clamping feet (2a, 2b) configured plane and mutually spaced apart for clamped mounting of the solar cell laminate (10); and a profile section (3) adjoining the laminate clamping section (2), which includes a portion formed—by sides (3a, 3b)—for the solar cell laminate (10). Therefore, the sides (3a, 3b) are formed such that the portion includes an undercut at least partially. A solar module (100) with at least one such frame profile (1) has a panel-shaped solar cell laminate (10), which is inserted between the clamping feet (2a, 2b) of the laminate clamping section (2) right up to the portion and is connected to the frame profile (1) of an at least partially framed solar module (100).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 28, 2016
    Date of Patent: August 14, 2018
    Assignee: SOLARWORLD INDUSTRIES GMBH
    Inventors: Frank Asbeck, Markus Hund
  • Patent number: 9723936
    Abstract: Plate stacking device comprising a vertical column with one or more side faces provided with plate supports. Each plate support comprises two upper projections horizontally in line with each other, and a lower projection which is longer than the two upper projections and which lies at a distance below the two upper projections. The upper projections projecting from a side face are lateral extensions of adjacent column walls.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 15, 2012
    Date of Patent: August 8, 2017
    Assignee: HORENA TRADING HOLLAND BV
    Inventor: Michel Nales
  • Patent number: 9643635
    Abstract: A lightweight utility cart for the transportation and/or storage of retail display shelves comprising a thermoplastic base and top, a plurality of rectangular tubular posts and a plurality of wheels. Currently available retail display shelves are placed vertically into such a cart from two opposing sides of the cart and secured within the cart by way of integrated partitions formed in the top and base members providing a method of separation and capture for inserted shelves thus eliminating the likelihood of shelf damage resulting from contact with adjacent shelves while placed in the cart. Upon the loading of shelves into the cart, the shelves can be safely stored in the cart for later use or easily transported throughout a typical retail environment conveniently and securely for placement in a retail shelving system.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 2, 2015
    Date of Patent: May 9, 2017
    Inventor: Stephen Edward Allen
  • Patent number: 9478697
    Abstract: In some embodiments, a substrate carrier for holding a plurality of substrates comprises a disk formed of a continuous material to a nominal dimension which is approximately a multiple of a nominal dimension of a standard substrate size used in the manufacture of light emitting diode devices. In an embodiment, the disk is formed symmetrically about a central axis and defines a substantially planar upper surface. A first pair of pockets is defined in the upper surface of the disk, wherein the disk and each of the first pair of pockets are bisected by a first reference plane passing through the central axis. A second pair of pockets is defined in the upper surface of the disk, wherein the disk and each of the second pair of pockets are bisected by a second reference plane passing through the central axis.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 11, 2014
    Date of Patent: October 25, 2016
    Assignee: APPLIED MATERIALS, INC.
    Inventors: Sriskantharajah Thirunavukarasu, Mingwei Zhu, Karthik Elumalai, Thean Ming Tan, Yong Cao, Daniel Lee Diehl, Nag Patibandla
  • Patent number: 9425731
    Abstract: A solar panel rack may comprise a vertical support, a transverse support, brackets attaching hollow beams to the transverse support, and brackets configured to attach solar panels or solar panel assemblies to the hollow beams. Internal splices may couple collinearly arranged hollow beams in the solar panel rack. Some or all of these components may be formed from folded sheet metal blanks comprising bend lines predefined by bend-inducing features formed in the blanks. Preformed slots, holes, or other openings in the sheet metal blanks may predefine the relative positions of various components in the solar panel rack and predefine the positions of solar panels or solar panel assemblies to be supported by the solar panel rack. Individual components of the solar panel rack may be useful in other structures and applications apart from solar panel racks.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 25, 2015
    Date of Patent: August 23, 2016
    Assignee: Industrial Origami, Inc.
    Inventors: Max W. Durney, Keith A. Bell
  • Patent number: 9060622
    Abstract: An expandable rack including a plurality of vertical frame members and a plurality of adjustable shelves is disclosed. Each adjustable shelf is at least partially supported by at least some of the vertical frame members. Each adjustable shelf comprises a first portion and a second portion. The first portion includes a lateral beam and at least one first arm extending perpendicularly from the lateral beam. The first arm includes a polygonal cross-section. The second portion includes a lateral beam and at least one second arm extending perpendicularly therefrom. The second arm includes a polygonal cross-section. The first arm is dimensioned to fit within the second arm in a telescoping relationship.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 6, 2011
    Date of Patent: June 23, 2015
    Assignee: Display Technologies, LLC
    Inventors: Eric Neumann, Mark Beddison, Bruce Gommermann
  • Publication number: 20150129517
    Abstract: A mounting system for supporting a plurality of photovoltaic modules on a sloped support surface, such as a sloped roof, is disclosed herein. The mounting system may include one or more support surface attachment devices, each support surface attachment device configured to attach one or more photovoltaic modules to a support surface; and one or more module coupling devices, each module coupling device configured to couple a plurality of photovoltaic modules to one another.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 13, 2014
    Publication date: May 14, 2015
    Inventor: Brian James Wildes
  • Publication number: 20150129516
    Abstract: An attachment device for connection to a construction member with at least one connection slot or recess is disclosed. Contact ends of two connection members of the device are inserted into the recess separately and then moved into an opposing or back-to-back relationship in the recess. At least one of the connection members has a contact end that is angularly offset from its body. The intersection between the body and contact end defines a pivot point. Once the connection members are placed in the recess, bodies of the connection members outside of the recess are disposed towards each other. The angularly offset contact end pivots about the pivot point moving the contact ends in the recess apart pressing contact surfaces against interior sidewalls of the recess. The outward pressure of the contact surfaces with the interior sidewalls locks the two connection members into place in connection recess.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 28, 2014
    Publication date: May 14, 2015
    Inventors: Richard F. Schaefer, David Kreutzman
  • Publication number: 20150122753
    Abstract: A bracket for supporting and displaying a planar object comprises an elongated body member including a planar web and a front wall and a rear wall extending from the longitudinal edges of the web. An end wall extends transversely with respect to and engages the distal ends of the web, the front wall and the rear wall such that the web and the front and rear walls and the end wall define a longitudinal channel open at the proximal end and closed at the distal end for supporting the objects. A pair of arms extend rearwardly from the body member. At least one of the arms is resiliently deflectable for engagement and retention of the lugs in an aperture of a mounting substrate. During connection, lugs on the arms are adapted to engage the portion of the mounting substrate defining the aperture for moving the arms inwardly so that the lugs pass through the aperture for permitting the arms to move outwardly and the lugs to engage the mounting substrate.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 12, 2015
    Publication date: May 7, 2015
    Inventors: Louis D. Fanning, JR., Edwin Paul Miller
  • Publication number: 20150114916
    Abstract: A weight storage peg for supporting free weight plates from an exercise superstructure includes a bar extending from a fastener. An exterior surface of the bar is provided by a nylon casting around a cylindrical tube weldment. The nylon casting tapers from a wider portion adjacent the free end to a narrower portion nearer the fastener. The nylon casting also provides a mounting flange around the head of a female threaded mounting bolt, with the female threaded mounting bolt welded to a cylindrical tube to form the cylindrical tube weldment.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 29, 2014
    Publication date: April 30, 2015
    Inventors: Jason Tambornino, Curt Tambornino
  • Publication number: 20150101997
    Abstract: Disclosed is a device for securing, mounting, aligning, and grounding solar panels to a roof mounted rail. The device in combination with a t-bolt, a nut, and a solar panel end-clamp or mid-clamp, secure, mount, align, and ground the solar panels to the roof mounted rail. The device can be inserted into the top of the rail anywhere along its length. After the device and t-bolt are inserted in the rail, the t-bolt rotated so it inserts into a slot at the bottom of the rail thereby securing the device to the rail, assuring the proper orientation of the t-bolt, and preventing further rotation of the t-bolt.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 21, 2014
    Publication date: April 16, 2015
    Inventors: Jun Liu, Clifford Schrock
  • Publication number: 20150101996
    Abstract: A supporting rack for a solar panel with a framework mountable on a surface such as a roof, this framework including two elongate runners extending parallel to each other and a cross-member extending between and connecting the two runners. Upper and lower clamp assemblies detachably and adjustably mount the solar panel on top of the framework so that the panel extends at an acute angle to the plane of the runners. There are two front clamp assemblies, each mountable on a respective runner and clamped to a front edge of the solar panel. A clevis pin connection pivotally connects the clamping mechanism to its respective runner. Two upper, rear clamp assemblies each have an adjustable J-clamp member and a back plate. After installation of the rack, the panel is pivotable from an operating position at an acute angle to the runners to a greater angle to facilitate maintenance or repair.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 6, 2014
    Publication date: April 16, 2015
    Applicant: Polar Racking Inc
    Inventor: Manish Nayar
  • Patent number: 9003726
    Abstract: Provided are a system and method for a self-aligning system for mounting at least one photovoltaic module to a surface. The system includes a plurality of rails, each rail having a plurality of slideably attached friction locking retainers, and a plurality of anchors with fasteners extending opposite from friction locking retainers. A collapsible separator is coupled between the rails and structured and arranged to align the rails to each other at a pre-defined separation distance. Each friction locking retainer structured and arranged to laterally slide along a portion of each rail and remain as positioned by a user. Each friction locking retainer further structured and arranged to grip and permit adjustment of at least one photovoltaic module during mounting. An associated method of use is also provided.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 1, 2012
    Date of Patent: April 14, 2015
    Assignee: The RAQ, LLC
    Inventor: Jon Dennis Sader
  • Publication number: 20150090680
    Abstract: A solar panel rack may comprise a vertical support, a transverse support, brackets attaching hollow beams to the transverse support, and brackets configured to attach solar panels or solar panel assemblies to the hollow beams. Internal splices may couple collinearly arranged hollow beams in the solar panel rack. Some or all of these components may be formed from folded sheet metal blanks comprising bend lines predefined by bend-inducing features formed in the blanks. Preformed slots, holes, or other openings in the sheet metal blanks may predefine the relative positions of various components in the solar panel rack and predefine the positions of solar panels or solar panel assemblies to be supported by the solar panel rack. Individual components of the solar panel rack may be useful in other structures and applications apart from solar panel racks.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 8, 2014
    Publication date: April 2, 2015
    Inventors: Max W. DURNEY, Keith A. BELL
  • Patent number: 8991602
    Abstract: The present invention provides a module used for stacking thin panels that allows for stacking of a plurality of thin panels in the vertical direction efficiently and stably. The module includes a sandwiching support portion, a load transmitting portion, and a positioning portion. The sandwiching support portion sandwiches and supports the thin panel. The load transmitting portion is coupled with the sandwiching support portion, and transmits the weight of the thin panel in the vertical direction. The positioning portion relatively positions thin panels, which are stacked in the vertical direction, in the horizontal direction. The sandwiching support portion includes a lower plate-shaped body and a vertical wall. The lower plate-shaped body is disposed on a lower portion of the module. The vertical wall extends upward from an outer edge of the lower plate-shaped body to form an approximately C-shaped cross-sectional surface in conjunction with the lower plate-shaped body.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 16, 2011
    Date of Patent: March 31, 2015
    Assignees: Hitachi Transport System, Ltd., Kyoraku Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Nobuyuki Kashima, Hiroshi Kobayashi, Takeshi Matsue, Hiroyuki Hashimoto, Koichiro Yoshida
  • Patent number: 8991781
    Abstract: A display fixture includes a fixed component including a product receiving portion and an elongated spine portion, a first adjustable component insertably engaged with the elongated spine portion and including a product receiving portion and an adjustment portion, a second adjustable component insertably engaged with the elongated spine portion and including a product receiving portion and an adjustment portion, a third adjustable component insertably engaged with the elongated spine portion and including a product receiving portion and an adjustment portion. The first adjustable component operates to slidably adjust a distance between the product receiving portion of the fixed component and the product receiving portion of the first adjustable component, while the second adjustable component and the third adjustable component operate to slidably adjust a distance between the product receiving portion of the second adjustable component and the product receiving portion of the third adjustable component.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 17, 2012
    Date of Patent: March 31, 2015
    Assignee: Target Brands, Inc.
    Inventors: Jason W. Johnson, Erin L. Zobel
  • Publication number: 20150075590
    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: Application
    Filed: November 3, 2014
    Publication date: March 19, 2015
    Inventor: Jack Raymond West
  • Publication number: 20150076088
    Abstract: Disclosed herein is a solar array column cap that includes a body having an opening extending along a center axis from a bottom to a top, the opening configured to receive the vertical column such that the body surrounds the vertical column. The solar array column cap further includes an upper support surface configured to receive a horizontal beam, the upper support surface being located in a plane that is visibly non-perpendicular with the center axis.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 7, 2014
    Publication date: March 19, 2015
    Inventor: MICHAEL ZURITIS
  • Publication number: 20150075589
    Abstract: A photovoltaic array mounting system for a low-slope roof having interchangeable first and second bases, with a short leg extending from the first base at a non-vertical angle and a long leg extending from the second base at a non-vertical angle, wherein the short and long legs support opposite sides of a photovoltaic module such that the module is held at a non-horizontal angle, and wherein rock-in connectors are provided on top of the short and long legs permitting fast and easy system installation.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 18, 2014
    Publication date: March 19, 2015
    Inventors: Jack Raymond West, Brian Atchley
  • Patent number: 8950594
    Abstract: A tray for a flat display panel. The tray includes a frame including a seating portion on which the flat display panel sits; a clamping device for clamping the panel so as not to be separated from the seating portion; and a size adjusting device for adjusting a size of the frame to correspond to a size of the panel. The tray allows the frame to be safely and firmly supported and transported, thereby greatly preventing the panel from being damaged during an examination of the panel and improving efficiency of the examination.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 28, 2012
    Date of Patent: February 10, 2015
    Assignee: Samsung Display Co., Ltd.
    Inventor: Sang-Yeon Moon
  • Publication number: 20150034575
    Abstract: A mounting structure for a solar panel assembly, having a plurality of solar panels, includes a plurality of vertical support legs and a grid assembly. The grid assembly includes a plurality of north-south members and the east-west members. The plurality of north-south members include a plurality of elongated slots to allow attachment to the vertical support legs despite any manufacturing tolerances that may exist in the components. The plurality of east-west members include a plurality of elongated slots to allow attachment to the north-south members despite any manufacturing tolerances that may exist in the components.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 13, 2013
    Publication date: February 5, 2015
    Inventors: Ryan Robert Warpup, Mark Francis Werner, Eric Anthony Powrozek, Peter Mykolaj Szadyr, David Wayne Cummings
  • Publication number: 20150027971
    Abstract: An accommodation cassette including: a plurality of rear accommodating grooves that are formed at least in the laterally central area of the inner surface of a rear wall connecting the rear edges of right and left side walls and extend laterally and parallel to each other at vertical spacings in such a manner as to be associated with right and left accommodating grooves.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 15, 2014
    Publication date: January 29, 2015
    Inventor: Takaaki INOUE
  • Publication number: 20150027970
    Abstract: A node for connecting together at least a first support element, a second support element and a third support element of a support frame such as a solar frame which supports solar reflectors. A method for connecting together at least a first support element, a second support element and a third support element of a solar frame which supports solar reflectors. A system for supporting solar reflectors includes a first support frame upon which the solar reflectors are disposed. A method for forming a support frame for solar reflectors. A system for constructing a support frame from parts, including chords, for solar reflectors. A method for constructing a support frame for solar reflectors. A support frame for solar reflectors.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 14, 2014
    Publication date: January 29, 2015
    Applicant: Werner Extrusion Solutions LLC
    Inventors: Craig Roy Werner, John Funai
  • Patent number: 8939144
    Abstract: Disclosed herein is a solar array column cap that includes a body having an opening extending along a center axis from a bottom to a top, the opening configured to receive the vertical column such that the body surrounds the vertical column. The solar array column cap further includes an upper support surface configured to receive a horizontal beam, the upper support surface being located in a plane that is non-perpendicular with the center axis.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 2, 2011
    Date of Patent: January 27, 2015
    Inventor: Michael Zuritis
  • Patent number: 8939143
    Abstract: Disclosed herein is a solar array column cap that includes a main body extending between a left side and a right side to define a channel, the channel configured to at least partially receive a vertical column of a solar array support structure such that the main body surrounds the vertical column. The main body further includes a left flange extending radially outwardly from the left side of the channel and right flange extending radially outwardly from the right side of the channel. Further, the main body includes an left upper flap extending from a top edge of the left flange, and a right upper flap extending from a top edge of the right flange, the right upper flap and left upper flap being co-planar.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 9, 2011
    Date of Patent: January 27, 2015
    Inventor: Michael Zuritis
  • Publication number: 20150021282
    Abstract: Systems and methods for mounting one or more solar panel modules are disclosed. First and second support structures can be provided. Each support structure can include a lateral support member extending laterally between two post members, and a clamp movably attached to the lateral support member and movable along a length of the lateral support member. Each of the support structures can be configured to be separately mounted to the supporting surface and aligned along an axis to have each lateral support member support a portion of the first solar panel module. The clamp of the first support structure can configured to be moved to a first Airy point of the first solar panel module and the clamp of the second support structure can be configured to be moved to a second Airy point of the first solar panel module.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 6, 2014
    Publication date: January 22, 2015
    Inventors: David Anderson, Vasilije Jovanovic
  • Publication number: 20150020873
    Abstract: A module rail for a photovoltaic system includes a module-supporting surface extending along the length of the module rail for supporting at least one photovoltaic module thereon. A vertical sidewall extends downward from a side of the module-supporting surface. Fastener openings are spaced apart from one another along the length of the rail. Each of the fastener openings extend through the sidewall generally adjacent to a juncture of the module-supporting surface and the sidewall. Each of the fastener openings is configured to receive a clip fastener for securing a photovoltaic module on the module-supporting surface.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 3, 2014
    Publication date: January 22, 2015
    Inventors: Eric Roland Nuernberger, William E. McCarthy
  • Publication number: 20150020871
    Abstract: The invention pertains to a framing structure for a solar panel made from a polymer composition (C) comprising at least one polyamide polymer [polyamide (A)], and at least one reinforcing filler [filler (F)], the framing structure being characterized by having a top surface and a bottom surface, said top surface having a depressed central portion sized for receiving a solar panel. It also relates to a method for manufacturing the same, to a method for assembly a solar panel into said framing structure, to a solar panel assembly comprising the same, and to a method for fixing said solar panel assembly onto a support (e.g. a roof).
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 22, 2013
    Publication date: January 22, 2015
    Applicant: SOLVAY SPECIALTY POLYMERS USA, LLC.
    Inventors: Vincent Pierre Meunier, Jeffrey A. Hrivnak, Glenn P. Desio, Philippe Brasseur
  • Patent number: 8936164
    Abstract: A solar panel rack may comprise a vertical support, a transverse support, brackets attaching hollow beams to the transverse support, and brackets configured to attach solar panels or solar panel assemblies to the hollow beams. Internal splices may couple collinearly arranged hollow beams in the solar panel rack. Some or all of these components may be formed from folded sheet metal blanks comprising bend lines predefined by bend-inducing features formed in the blanks. Preformed slots, holes, or other openings in the sheet metal blanks may predefine the relative positions of various components in the solar panel rack and predefine the positions of solar panels or solar panel assemblies to be supported by the solar panel rack. Individual components of the solar panel rack may be useful in other structures and applications apart from solar panel racks.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 6, 2012
    Date of Patent: January 20, 2015
    Assignee: Industrial Origami, Inc.
    Inventors: Max W. Durney, Keith A. Bell
  • Publication number: 20140366782
    Abstract: A furniture system for use in a classroom, the furniture system comprising a table assembly including a top member and at least a first leg support member, the top member forming a substantially flat top surface and circumscribed by an outer edge, the at least one leg support member supporting the top member in a substantially horizontal position, a table dock supported by the table assembly adjacent the top surface and forming a table dock channel that opens upwardly where the dock channel is unobstructed by the top member, at least a first substantially flat display panel including a display surface on at least a first of two oppositely facing and substantially parallel side surfaces, the panel circumscribed by a panel edge and an easel assembly spaced apart from the table assembly and including an easel coupler, wherein the panel edge is receivable within the table dock channel to support the display panel in a substantially vertical orientation adjacent the flat top surface and wherein the display panel i
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 25, 2013
    Publication date: December 18, 2014
    Inventor: David J. Battey
  • Publication number: 20140360951
    Abstract: The invention relates to a holder (6) for a solar module having a rectangular frame (R) which has a peripheral side wall (4) from at least one side of which there extends a leg (3) that is directed toward the frame interior, wherein the holder (6) has a base plate (19) with two receiving elements (20) extending therefrom for receiving the leg (3). According to the invention, it is proposed that each receiving element (20) is assigned at least one support surface (Sf), attached to the base plate (19), for supporting the side wall (4), the spacing of said support surface (Sf) from the receiving element (20) being variable.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 24, 2013
    Publication date: December 11, 2014
    Inventor: Werner Ilzhoefer
  • Publication number: 20140360562
    Abstract: A support system for a solar panel includes a triangular truss with connection points for mounting a photovoltaic module, and a cradle structure that supports the triangular truss and is connected to at least two side supports of the triangular truss. The cradle structure may be driven for rotation about an axis for tracking the sun and several cradle structures can be linked together for tracking movement using a buried linkage system. The truss may also be foldable for ease of transportation and storage.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 27, 2014
    Publication date: December 11, 2014
    Inventor: John Hartelius
  • Patent number: 8894033
    Abstract: Described herein is a mounting system and slider clips that support simplified installation of photovoltaic structures. The mounting system comprises a support structure which can be mounted to support columns via an optional tilt table. The support structure comprises a plurality of parallel spaced beams and a plurality of parallel spaced rails that are mounted approximately perpendicular to the beams. Disclosed embodiments describe a collapsible support structure in which the rails are pivotally mounted to the beams. Rails are preassembled with prefabricated slider clips for holding edge portions of the photovoltaic structures. Rails can also be integrally formed with slider clips. Described herein are also methods of installing one or more photovoltaic structures using the mounting system and methods for manufacturing slider clips and a photovoltaic structure mounting system.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 11, 2013
    Date of Patent: November 25, 2014
    Assignee: First Solar, Inc
    Inventors: John Hartelius, Michael Monaco, Kyle Kazimir
  • Publication number: 20140339179
    Abstract: A photovoltaic module frame having hollow sections into which male ends of a corner key are received such that two frame sections can be connected together in orthogonal directions. The male ends of the corner key may have teeth thereon. Once so engaged, a tool head may be applied to the corner formed by the adjacent frame sections. The tool head may create indentations in the profiles that engage the teeth of the corner keys within the frame sections, thereby forming a corner of a module frame.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 5, 2014
    Publication date: November 20, 2014
    Inventors: Jack Raymond West, Peter Edward Gruber, Nathaniel Taylor Coleman
  • Publication number: 20140332059
    Abstract: A mounting system for mounting a plurality of solar panels is provided. In one aspect, the mounting system has plurality of panel modules and at least one of: a means for selectively securing a pair of adjacently positioned panel modules to a support structure in an edge-to-edge relationship along a mounting axis that is transverse to the coupling axis, and a means for selectively locking a distal end of one pair of mounting members of one panel module to a proximal end of another pair of mounting members of an adjoining panel module to form at least a portion of one coupled panel module that is adjoined end-to-end along a coupling axis that is transverse to the mounting axis.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 9, 2014
    Publication date: November 13, 2014
    Applicant: Suniva, Inc.
    Inventors: Stephen Patrick Shea, Gregory Tyrone Jones
  • Publication number: 20140326686
    Abstract: A substrate cartridge is disclosed. The substrate cartridge includes a cuboid-shaped frame. The cuboid-shaped frame includes a receiving space for carrying a substrate, a first side, a second side parallel to the first side, and a third side connected adjacent to the first side and the second side. The first side and the second side are arranged with lateral supports. The third side is arranged with bottom supports. The bottom support is arranged with bottom branches. The lateral supports and the bottom branches are arranged with supporting portions. The bottom branches expand from the bottom support, and the supporting portions for supporting the substrate are arranged on two opposite ends of the bottom branches. In this way, the distance between the supporting portions of the lateral supports and that of the bottom supports is decreased such that the substrate is prevented from being scratched or fragmented.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 21, 2013
    Publication date: November 6, 2014
    Applicant: Shenzhen China Star Optoelectronics Technology Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Chenyangzi Li, Chunhao Wu, Kunhsien Lin, Minghu Qi, Yongqiang Wang, Zenghong Chen, Weibing Yang, Yunshao Jiang, Zhiyou Shu, Guokun Yang
  • Publication number: 20140326687
    Abstract: Embodiments of the present inventions are directed to systems, devices for use with systems, and method of mounting and retaining solar panels. A solar module mounting system may include a ballast, a sole mechanically coupled to a bottom surface of the ballast, a link member embedded in the ballast, an attachment module mechanically coupled to the link member, and a deflector mechanically coupled to the link member. A method of mounting a solar panel module may include forming a link member and a ballast, attaching the ballast to the link member, bonding a sole to a lower surface of the ballast and/or the link member, attaching a solar panel module to the link member with an attachment module member, electrically grounding the mounting system, routing a wiring from the solar panel module through a wire chase, and attaching a deflector module to the link member.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 9, 2014
    Publication date: November 6, 2014
    Inventor: Daniel P. Leary
  • Publication number: 20140305887
    Abstract: Disclosed herein is a mounting rail for a solar array support structure that includes a main body having a top and a bottom, the main body extending from a first end to a second end, the main body including a dual web having a first vertical element and a second vertical element. Further, the mounting rail includes a solar panel mounting portion extending along the top of the main body, the solar panel mounting portion configured to secure the solar panel to the mounting rail. Finally, the mounting rail includes a first flange extending from the bottom of the first vertical element, the first flange including a first pair of holes configured to receive two ends of a U-bolt, the first pair of holes spaced apart substantially equal to a width of a horizontal rail of a solar array support structure.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 25, 2014
    Publication date: October 16, 2014
    Inventor: Michael Zuritis
  • Publication number: 20140291187
    Abstract: An element for the handling objects includes vertically oriented, sheet-form ribs connecting by sidelong slats, with a protrusion that protrudes outwardly beyond an exterior face of a corresponding slat, the protrusion having either a bottom edge at a third height (H3) that is greater than or equal to a first slat top edge height (H1), or a top edge that is less than or equal to the second slat bottom edge height (H2), such that, when the element is placed sideways against an identical such element, the protrusion is either above an adjacent sidelong connecting slat of the identical element, or below the adjacent sidelong connecting slat of the identical the element.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 24, 2014
    Publication date: October 2, 2014
    Applicant: PARNASS, besloten vennootschap met beperkte aansprakelijkheid
    Inventor: Jan SERVAES
  • Patent number: 8844719
    Abstract: A module for stacking thin panels and a method of stacking thin panels when a plurality of thin panels are vertically stacked in a state of being supported by the modules capable of securing an adequate load transfer area for transferring a load of the thin panels. The module for stacking the thin panels includes: a support portion for supporting the thin panel from below; a load transfer portion connected to the support portion for transferring a weight of the thin panel downward; and a drop-off preventing portion for regulating horizontal movement of the thin panel. The load transfer portion includes a load transfer surface extending outward from the support portion, the load transfer surface includes a load receiving surface provided in an upper portion of the module and a load releasing surface provided in a lower portion of the module, and the drop-off preventing portion includes a protrusion portion protruding downward from a lower portion of the module.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 27, 2011
    Date of Patent: September 30, 2014
    Assignee: Kyoraku Co., Ltd.
    Inventor: Kouichirou Yoshida
  • Publication number: 20140284292
    Abstract: A photovoltaic panel support system is provided. The panel support may include a surface frame and a support frame. The surface frame may be mounted to a surface. The support frame may be attached to the surface frame and may support photovoltaic panels. The present invention may further include a plurality of vertical posts. Each vertical post may include a top end and a bottom end. The top end may connect with the support frame and the bottom end is supported by at least one of the surface frame and the surface. At least a portion of the plurality of vertical posts includes a wheel on the bottom end.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 19, 2014
    Publication date: September 25, 2014
    Inventor: Richard Pantel
  • Publication number: 20140246012
    Abstract: A thin-sheet panel assembly. In one embodiment, a substantially rigid thin-sheet panel assembly having a non-rigid thin-sheet component includes the thin-sheet component which has selected plan area and shape, a backer having a plan shape and area substantially similar to the thin-sheet component, and plural riser elements of selected height and configuration each extending from the backer to distal ends connected to a reverse surface of the thin-sheet component, the riser elements being configured and disposed in an array which causes the assembly to have substantial rigidity in a selected direction in the thin-sheet component, and the thin-sheet panel assembly further includes a bar coupled to the backer and extending between at least one pair of adjacent riser elements of the plural riser elements.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 28, 2014
    Publication date: September 4, 2014
    Applicant: GOSSAMER SPACE FRAMES
    Inventor: Glenn Alan Reynolds