Abstract: A material supporting ledge is configured to be attached to a horizontal rail support. The ledge has a support bracket with a central section with dual arm members for securing the ledge onto a horizontal rail or an arm extension member which is inserted into one of the openings in an e-track rail. The bracket also has two downwardly extending framing elements connected to two platform elements on which support blocks are positioned. The ledge can be secured onto the rail and is quickly mountable to and removeable from the rail without the use of tools. Upon the placement of the ledge on the rail, the ledge is securely maintained in position against rail. Material, including glass plates of varying sizes, can be placed on the ledge, over larger glass plates already being carried in the system.

Abstract: A substrate loading device including a frame part forming a loading space in which a plurality of substrates are loaded, and having an inlet surface in which the substrates are inserted, and a rear surface opposite to the inlet surface, a main support protruding from the rear surface of the frame part to support a rear side of the loaded substrates and a sub support mounted at the inlet surface of the frame part and protruding from the inlet surface to support a front and opposite side of the loaded substrates.

Abstract: A solar panel mounting stand includes: a plurality of supporting legs installed at an installation site of the solar panel mounting stand, with six supporting legs in total as one set; three panel supporting racks, having an integral structure in which three members are combined to form a right triangle, and mounted on adjacent two supporting legs; a beam member configured to mutually connect members constituting an oblique side of the three panel supporting racks arranged in a row in the first direction; a brace member configured to connect members of the panel supporting rack in the center and the panel supporting rack at one end side; and a brace member configured to connect members of the panel supporting rack in the center and the panel supporting rack at the other end side, wherein the brace member and the brace member are disposed in a form a mountain shape.

Abstract: An apparatus is provided for pre-assembly of an electrically connected array of solar panels for a solar canopy including: a substantially planar base member for resting on a horizontal surface; a substantially planar support member for horizontally aligning supporting a plurality of solar panels; a track member disposed proximate a bottom portion of the support member attached to or integral with the support or base members for vertically aligning and supporting a plurality of solar panels when a side edge portion of the solar panels rests on the track member; and at least two arm members, each having a free and attached ends, the attached ends pivotally attached proximate to opposing ends of the base or support members and each arm members having a longitudinal axis oriented substantially perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the base and support members and extending outward from the base member and support members.

Abstract: A sink storage tray system for organizing and storage of kitchen accessories and other items is provided. The sink storage tray system comprises a storage tray having a base section and a top section with at least a portion of the top section being parallel to the base section. A plurality of upturned, angled storage bas extend from a first end of the storage tray. A pair of angled storage bars extends from a second end of the storage tray with a distal end of the angled storage bars contacting each other. A substantially circular shaped opening is fanned in the top section of the storage tray, the opening, sized and shaped for holding a bottle in an inverted position.

Abstract: A positioning system for a solar panel includes a frame, a surface plate, an adjustable rail and a frame coupling. The surface plate is configured to secure the positioning system to a mounting surface and includes a connection for an axle. The axle links the surface plate with the frame coupling or with the adjustable rail. The frame coupling attaches to the frame and holds the frame in an operating position. A length of the adjustable rail may be increased or decreased for varying the angular orientation of the frame relative to the mounting surface. The frame is configured to be removable from the frame coupling without requiring the surface plate to be removed from the mounting surface.

Abstract: An exemplary embodiment of the present invention provides a solar panel truss mounting system comprising a base and a truss assembly coupled to the base. The truss assembly comprises a first panel rail mount, second panel rail mount parallel to the first panel rail mount, base rail mount parallel to the first and second panel rail mounts, and a plurality of support members. A first portion of the plurality of support members extends between the first and second panel rail mounts. A second portion of the plurality of support members extends between the first panel rail mount and the base rail mount. A third portion of the plurality of support members extends between the second panel rail mount and the base rail mount. The system can further comprise a plurality of connectors for coupling a plurality of photovoltaic solar panels to the truss assembly.

Abstract: The invention relates to a frame (R) for a solar Module, wherein the frame (R) comprises a plurality of aluminum extruded profiles (SP), which form the sides of the frame (R) and which are connected to each other at the corners thereof; wherein at least one aluminum extruded profile (SP) comprises at least one hollow chamber (H), wherein the frame (R) comprises corner elements (E, E?), wherein at least one corner element (E, E?) comprises a discharge opening (18, AB), and the discharge opening (18, AB) is connected to a hollow chamber (H) of at least one adjacent aluminum extruded profile (SP).

Abstract: A panel support and wiring system is used as part of a bi-directional solar panel support matrix having lower support joists and upper panel rails. Both the panel clip and wiring arrangements are configured to facilitate rapid deployment and installation of the entire solar panel system, including supports and interfaces with the underlying substrate. A standardized wiring system is one of the factors facilitating rapid installation.

Abstract: Embodiments of the present inventions are directed to systems, devices for use with systems, and method of mounting and retaining solar panels. In some embodiments, an apparatus for mounting one or more solar panel modules above a supporting surface is disclosed, the apparatus including: three foundational members embedded in the supporting surface; a support frame configured to receive the solar panel modules; a support strut assembly configured to attach the support frame to the three foundational members to support the solar panel modules; where the support strut assembly includes a plurality of strut members, and includes one or more adjustment mechanisms that may be used to adjust a length or a joining angle of at least one of the strut members.

Abstract: A collapsible rack assembly for supporting a solar module and methods of assembling the same are provided. The assembly is movable from a collapsed position to an assembled position. The assembly comprises a plurality of collapsible frames, each of which comprises a first leg, a second leg, and a third leg. The first leg extends substantially parallel to a support surface. The second leg extends from the first leg at a first angle relative to the first leg when the frame is assembled and supports the solar module at the first angle when assembled. The third leg extends from the first leg at a second angle relative to the first leg when the frame is assembled. The second and third legs are rotatably connected to the first leg. When in the collapsed position the legs are nested so that one of the legs is disposed within another of the legs.

Abstract: A photovoltaic panel racking system is provided having multiple beams aligned in parallel relation where multiple photovoltaic panels are mounted on top of the beams. The beams have a wave structure with multiple sets of slopes providing multiple mounting points. The photovoltaic panel racking system provides a low cost, easy to install and manufacture photovoltaic panel installation solution for roof tops and other surfaces.

Abstract: The present invention provides a package cushioning structure for module, which includes a cushioning bottom board and a cushioning band extending through and interlaced with the cushioning bottom board. The cushioning bottom board forms a plurality of spaced hollow sections. A bar is arranged between every two of the hollow sections. The cushioning band includes a plurality of cushioning air columns mounted thereto at interval. The cushioning air columns are arranged alternately on the bars. To package, modules are each positioned on and born by each of the bars between two of the cushioning air columns. An alternate package cushioning structure includes a cushioning bottom board having a surface forming slots and a cushioning band arranged in the cushioning bottom board through a mounting channel extending through the bottom board from a side surface thereof. Air columns of the cushioning band are located in the slots to support modules.

Abstract: An adjustable photovoltaic panel mounting system that allows for variations in roofs and roof elements, while still maintaining a rigid and secure assembly. The specific location for supporting feet and structural elements of the mounting system may be varied to allow for variations in roof features and different panel configurations. The mounting mechanisms are adjustable in both a North/South and a East/West direction to provide for maximum layout flexibility.

Abstract: The invention comprises components and a method for producing components that, without limitation, frame a photovoltaic (“PV”) module such that the frame (i) provides improved stability for the groove incorporated therein, (ii) enables a higher percentage of in-tolerance final PV module product, and (iii) enables acceptance of a wider tolerance range in raw frame extrusion than the prior art. An embodiment may include a profile with a first hollow and a second hollow, collinear to one another and separated by a diagonal component. A corner key with teeth and male portions may engage the first hollow of adjacent profiles that meet orthogonally. Once so engaged, a tool head may be applied to the corner formed by the adjacent profiles. The application of the tool head may create indentations in the profiles that engage the teeth of the corner keys within the profiles, forming a corner of a PV module frame.

Abstract: The present racking system uses space frame technology to minimize materials while maximizing strength. The rack has multi-position racking capability, using a simple swing arm and pin system to move the solar array into an optimum position for the appropriate time of the year.

Abstract: Racking systems for supporting a photovoltaic module are provided. The racking system includes a support lip; a lower retaining wall substantially oriented in a retaining plane and extending from the lower retaining wall; a lower support wall substantially oriented in a support plane and positioned on an opposite side of the lower retaining wall than the support lip; and an upper support wall substantially oriented in the support plane. The lower retaining wall and the lower support wall are joined together by a resting rail to define a retaining groove therebetween. Methods are also provided for mounting a photovoltaic module onto a racking system.

Abstract: A frame is provided for highly-concentrated photovoltaic cells. The frame uses vertical and horizontal rods. Connectors are fixed at where the vertical and horizontal rods connect. The frame is constructed with the rods and connectors coordinated with fixing components. Thus, solar cell receivers can be directly set at any place on the frame; and the frame can be easily constructed and safely moved. Furthermore, location space is effectively used and weather resistance is achieved.

Abstract: A frame assembly including a frame and a bracket is disclosed. The frame has a sliding groove and a first engaging groove, wherein the sliding groove is formed at one side of the frame and the first engaging groove is formed in the sliding groove. The bracket has a body and a first engaging part, wherein the first engaging part is extended from the body. When the body is disposed in the sliding groove, the first engaging part is engaged in the first engaging groove.

Abstract: A pole assembly includes a supporting pole, a connecting pole, and a reinforcing pole. A first end of the reinforcing pole is pivotably connected to a first end of the supporting pole. A first end of the connecting pole is pivotably connected to a second end of the supporting pole. The connecting pole and the supporting pole each have a U-shaped cross-section. A locking slot is defined in a second end of the reinforcing pole. A locking portion is formed from a middle portion of the connecting pole. When to use the pole assembly, the locking portion extends through the locking slot and is bent to contact with reinforcing pole, to connect the second end of the reinforcing pole to the middle portion of the connecting pole.

Abstract: A frame includes two flanges and a connection member. Each flange includes an outer plate and an inner plate parallel to the outer plate. A first sidewall and a second sidewall extend from the outside plate to be connected to the inner, parallel to each other. The outer side plate, the inner side plate, and the first and second sidewalls together bound a receiving space. The connection member includes a first connecting plate engaged in the receiving space of one of the flanges, and a second connecting plate engaged in the receiving space of the other flange. A number of parallel grooves are defined in each of the first and second connecting plates. A number of blocks extend from an inner side of the inner side plate to engage in the corresponding grooves.

Abstract: Provided is a specimen carrier supply and delivery device having at least one specimen carrier magazine with separate compartments for receiving interchangeably specimen carriers and a magazine lift, which is adjustable in height in a magazine carrier frame for receiving interchangeably specimen carrier magazines. Two pairs of bars, which stand vertically and parallel to one another, are arranged in the magazine carrier frame, wherein the magazine lift is guided in a height adjustable manner on the two complementary first bars of the bar pairs. An equal-sided coupling frame, which is aligned vertically to the plane formed by the first bars, with a bridge, which is arranged parallel to the plane, is mounted in a sliding manner on the two complementary second bars of the pairs of bars. A linear scale, which is aligned parallel to the direction of the bars, is fastened to the magazine lift.

Abstract: A framing system for mounting solar collection devices to form a solar array can include a plurality of interconnected frame members having connectors provided on the frame members to form rows of an array solar collector devices. Mounts can be provided at the upper portion of the frame members to secure the solar collecting devices at a raised position. The framing system can simplify the installation of the wiring system before the solar collection devices are attached to the frame members.

Abstract: A brace for connecting the frames of adjacent solar modules can include one or more lower lips and one or more upper lips configured to capture an outer edge of a solar module frame. The brace can include a removable top so as to facilitate connection and disconnection of the couplers and solar modules. Additionally, the brace can be configured to allow a solar module to be engaged and disengaged by hooking the frame onto the brace then tilting the frame relative to the brace. The brace can include features for achieving a snap fit with solar module frames.

Abstract: An erection system for the attachment of solar panels arranged areally adjacent one another and inclined toward the sun. The solar panels are held in rows by a multiplicity of holding members that are fastened to posts anchored in the ground by base members arranged substantially orthogonally with respect to the holding members and which have downwardly open U-profiles. The base members can be connected to the posts via mounting units. Each mounting unit has two clamping shells with semicircular recesses for abutment against the posts and substantially planar abutment surfaces for abutment against the side surfaces of the U-profile. Bores are arranged in the abutment surfaces of the clamping shells and corresponding bores are arranged in the side surfaces of the base member such that the base members can be fixed in a frictionally locking and/or positively locking manner to the posts by screw connections extending through the bores.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a system for securing a panel to a surface. The system includes a first member having an overhang that fits overtop a panel and a mount that includes a recessed edge suitable for receiving the edge of the panel. When the panel is positioned in the recessed edge of the mount and the overhang of the first member is positioned overtop the panel, the first member and mount can be fastened together via a set of mechanical fasteners to secure the panel.

Abstract: A clamp connection (1) for the attachment of solar modules, on rail-shaped carriers (2) provided with guide grooves (5) with margins (6, 7) that protrude inwards into the groove (5), includes a support (3) with at least one support surface (12) present on its upper side, for a component. A T-shaped counter bearing (9) present on its lower side, where a crossbar (11) of the counter bearing can be inserted and engages behind the protruding margins (6, 7) of the guide groove (5), and of a clamping cap (4) with clamping surface (13) covering the support surface (12), and a longitudinal groove (16) which grips the upper part of the supporting brace (5), where the clamping cap (40) and the support (3) are attached to each other via a latching connection (18, 19, 20, 28, 48).

Abstract: A supporting stand for multiple screens includes a frame and a movable module. The frame is disposed on a working surface and having a track module. The track module has two tracks, where one of the tracks has a restricting surface extended along a first direction, and the other track has a restricting surface extended along a second direction. The movable module has a pair of movable units for supporting a pair of screens and movably engaging the tracks. Each movable unit has a sliding component having a contacting surface. The shape of the two contacting surfaces conforms in shape to the two restricting surfaces. The two contacting surfaces respectively contact the two restricting surfaces for enabling the two contacting surfaces to be movable respectively along the first direction and the second direction.

Abstract: Rotatable support system for mounting one or more photovoltaic modules and method thereof. The system includes a stiffener configured to be attached to the one or more photovoltaic modules, a column connected to the stiffener through at least a rotatable component, and a foot connected to the column. The column is configured to rotate from a folded position towards an unfolded position, and stop at the unfolded position separated from the folded position by an angle difference. The angle difference represents the maximum range of rotation for the column.

Abstract: A ballasted mounting system for positioning a solar panel on a mounting surface. The system comprises a support structure and a cover assembly fastened to the support structure. The support structure has a plurality of support members for retaining the solar panel over the mounting surface at an inclined angle to the mounting surface, and as a proximal end positioned adjacent to the mounting surface and the solar panel attachable to a distal end of the support structure. The cover assembly comprises sheet material fastened to the support structure and having a first cover panel positioned between the support structure and the mounting surface and a second cover panel positioned between the proximal end and the distal end, such that the cover assembly cooperates with the solar panel when installed to form an interior.

Abstract: A photovoltaic mount can include a groove to receive a plurality of photovoltaic panels spaced by seismic gaps, a wall coupled to a structural framing channel, and modular connecting devices to couple the plurality of photovoltaic panels to portions of the groove. The photovoltaic mount can be fabricated away from a power generation site. A modular photovoltaic system can include a plurality of prefabricated intermediate modules, each having photovoltaic panels modularly secured thereon, and a prefabricated termination module having photovoltaic panels modularly secured thereon. The modular photovoltaic system can be assembled at a power generation site while the prefabricated intermediate and termination modules can be fabricated away from the power generation site. A photovoltaic power generating center can include a composite arrangement of modular photovoltaic systems. Also disclosed are related methods.

Abstract: Provided is a specimen carrier supply and delivery device having at least one specimen carrier magazine with separate compartments for receiving interchangeably specimen carriers and a magazine lift, which is adjustable in height in a magazine carrier frame for receiving interchangeably specimen carrier magazines. Two pairs of bars, which stand vertically and parallel to one another, are arranged in the magazine carrier frame, wherein the magazine lift is guided in a height adjustable manner on the two complementary first bars of the bar pairs. An equal-sided coupling frame, which is aligned vertically to the plane formed by the first bars, with a bridge, which is arranged parallel to the plane, is mounted in a sliding manner on the two complementary second bars of the pairs of bars. A linear scale, which is aligned parallel to the direction of the bars, is fastened to the magazine lift.

Abstract: A rack support assembly for use with a racking system including a support post and a racking assembly for supporting a plurality of solar panels is disclosed. The rack support assembly may generally include a sleeve extending between a first end and a second end. The first end of the sleeve may be configured to be received on the support post. In addition, the rack support assembly may include a rack support member coupled to the sleeve so as to extend from the second end of the sleeve. The rack support member may be configured to be coupled to a portion of the racking assembly.

Abstract: A frame system for fixing a panel, in particular a solar panel, to the ground and oriented at an angle of 5-70 degrees to the horizontal plane. The frame system includes a front end, a rear end, a panel frame for holding the panel and provided with at least one rear support element. The rear support element at one end thereof is hingingly attached at or near the rear end to the panel frame to allow the rear support element to be folded against or in plane with the panel frame and at its other end that includes attachment provisions configured to attach the rear support element to the ground. The panel frame further includes attachment provisions configured to attach the front end of the panel to the ground.

Abstract: A frame assembly is provided for easily hanging a frame at a desired orientation. The base frame has a central mount that is fastened to a wall, to permit the base frame to be rotated to the desired orientation. Off-center mounts are thereafter fastened to the wall to maintain the desired orientation. The base frame is configured to fit within an outer frame, which holds an artistic or functional insert. Once the outer frame is mounted over the base frame, the base frame is obscured and the outer frame is flush with the wall surface. Further, multiple base frames can be hung in alignment by simply marking the desired center point for each base frame. The outer frame is removably secured to the base frame by a catch, to permit the easy exchange of the artistic insert or outer frame.

Abstract: A solar concentrator assembly includes a pair of rails coupled together only by one or more backpans which are mounted between the pair of rails. The rails are configured to resist a portion of a cantilever deflection along the length of the rails. The backpans seat solar concentrator arrays and are configured to provide torsional rigidity and deflection resistance in at least one direction orthogonal to the cantilever deflection.

Abstract: A light weight ballasted solar racking system has light ballasted weight loads and is easy and fast to install. The racking system may be used in roof or ground mount applications to mount thin film and frameless solar modules. The racking system physically attaches to the solar panel at the manufactured mounting holes with a set of struts that then attach to a ballast tray that holds the system in place. A set of struts may determine the degree of angle from about 5 to about 35 degrees, for example. The front of the ballast tray has an air pass way of about 3-5 inches, while the back of the system has about 8-12 inches of space for an air pass way. Multiple racking systems may be linked together, resulting in the need for less ballast weight for each racking system.

Abstract: A greenhouse shelf structure with modularized solar power facility includes a greenhouse shelf set between two neighboring standing pillars. The greenhouse shelf is a wave form shelf or a ridge form shelf. The standing pillar connects to a connector, and the side end of the connector connects the greenhouse shelf. The top of the connector connects a solar panel support. Accordingly, the solar panel support and the greenhouse shelf are integrated into a whole assembly by the modularized combination, and the place where the greenhouse situated can also be provided with a solar panel to receive the solar power to generate the electricity, which further fulfills the electricity requirement of the greenhouse or other devices.

Abstract: Tensioned sheet-metal based solar panels and structures for supporting the same are disclosed. The sheet metal based solar panels can include a flexible photovoltaic solar module laminated onto a thin, flexible metal sheet. Such solar panels can be mounted on and tensioned within a support frame that is twisted out of plane with respect to a reference planar datum surface. The resulting surface can be a hyperbolic paraboloid, which can be aesthetically pleasing while improving structural stability and maximizing angular exposure to the sun.

Abstract: A retention device for maintaining a first rotary machine component axially loaded onto a second rotary machine component in a fixed axial position includes a lock block sized and configured to move between first and second aligned recesses in the first and second rotary machine components. The aligned recesses are shaped to prevent rotation of the lock block, and the lock block has a threaded bore extending therethrough. An actuator is threadably mounted in the bore, such that rotation of the actuator will, in use, move the lock block from the first aligned recess at least partially into the second aligned recess.

Abstract: The disclosure provides a photovoltaic array system, a photovoltaic device of the photovoltaic array system, and a frame element of the photovoltaic device of the photovoltaic array system. The frame element includes a groove, a receiving hole and a metal wire. The groove extends along a longitudinal axial direction of the frame element for holding one lateral side of a photovoltaic panel. The receiving hole extends along the longitudinal axial direction for receiving the metal wire therein, and is parallel to the longitudinal axial direction.

Abstract: A PV panel carrier includes a plurality of elongate members joined by connecting members to form a frame. Each of the connecting members includes a support surface for supporting a portion of a PV panel thereon. Each of the connectors includes a fastening strap extending over the support surface, wherein at least two of the fastening straps are movable between an open position wherein they do not extend over the support surface and a closed position wherein they extend over the support surface to retain a PV panel in the carrier.

Abstract: A supporting apparatus includes a first pole, a second pole, a connecting pole, a reinforcing pole, and a fastener. A first end of the reinforcing pole is connected to a first end of the first pole. A first end of the connecting pole is connected to a second end of the first pole. A first end of the second pole is connected to a second end of the connecting pole. A second end of the reinforcing pole is connected to a middle of the first pole through the fastener. The connecting pole and the first pole each have a U-shaped cross-section. When the fastener is released from the first pole, the reinforcing pole is rotated to be received in the first pole. The reinforcing pole and the first pole are then rotated to be received in the connecting pole.

Abstract: A photovoltaic mounting apparatus includes a mounting frame coupled to a pile capable of being anchored in numerous terrain and slope conditions, universal clamping for mounting any type of solar panel thereto, and components enabling customized angles of inclination of photovoltaic modules mounted onto the frame. Optimized testing and preparation for installation are part of a process ensuring that design of materials and installation of a photovoltaic mounting apparatus is customizable to reduce time and expense in a method of installation.

Abstract: A support rail for a row of PV modules includes an outer hollow rail, a first inner hollow rail comprising a metal, and an insulating device configured to electrically separate the outer hollow rail from the first inner hollow rail. The first inner hollow rail is accommodated within the outer hollow rail via the insulating device and is held in all directions transversely to the support rail in a positive-locking manner within the outer hollow rail by the insulating device.

Abstract: A thermal compensation apparatus is disclosed including an elongated element extending from a proximal end to a distal end. A length of the elongated element from the proximal end to the distal end decreases in response to an increase in the temperature of the elongated element from a baseline temperature. The length of the elongated element increases in response to a decrease in the temperature of the elongated element from the baseline temperature. In various embodiments, the apparatus may be incorporated in solar module mounting systems.

Abstract: A photovoltaic module and the frame thereof are provided. The frame includes a holding part and an extending part. The holding part is used to hold a photovoltaic panel. The extending part connects to the holding part and includes at least one first wind tunnel structure having an inlet and an outlet, in which the cross-sectional area of the inlet is greater than the cross-sectional area of the outlet.

Abstract: A rack includes: a rack main body including a storage space configured to store a plurality of plate-shaped members and a carry-in opening; a plurality of upper supporting portions configured to respectively support upper edge portions of the plurality of plate-shaped members; lower supporting portions respectively provided under the plurality of upper supporting portions and configured to respectively support lower edge portions of the plurality of standing plate-shaped members; and lower edge portion storage portions provided to be each located at an outer side of an end of the upper supporting portion and an end of the lower supporting portion in the arrangement direction and configured to store the lower edge portions of the plate-shaped members, and at least one of the upper supporting portions is configured to be able to support the upper edge portion of the plate-shaped member.

Abstract: A frame for hanging a solar panel is provided. The frame may include: a first set of struts having holes corresponding to holes at the back of a solar panel and additional holes; and a second set of struts having holes corresponding to the additional holes in the first set of struts when one of the second set of struts is located behind and transverse to one of the first set of struts. A method of assembling a solar panel assembly may be provided. The method may include: positioning two solar panels side by side; aligning holes in a first set of struts with holes in the solar panels; attaching the first set of struts to the solar panels with fasteners; aligning holes in a second set of struts with holes in the first set of struts; attaching the second set of struts to the first set of struts; and attaching the second set of struts to a support rack.

Abstract: A racking assembly for a photovoltaic system includes an elongate pier having a length extending from a lower end to an upper end of the pier. A pier cap is securable to the pier. The pier cap includes an elongate support beam and at least one pier cap hanger secured to the support beam. The at least one pier cap hanger is configured to engage the upper end of the pier to hang the pier cap in a selected position on the pier.