Roof Patents (Class 248/237)
  • Patent number: 11881808
    Abstract: This disclosure discusses devices for mounting solar PV panels to a roof and other mounting structures. One device may include a railless mounting assembly that includes a roof attachment bracket and a panel attachment bracket. The roof attachment bracket may include a spring clip and a hook. The device may include a solar panel frame with built-in detents for mounting. It may include a solar panel frame capable of attaching to the spring clip and hook.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 31, 2023
    Date of Patent: January 23, 2024
    Assignee: Sunmodo Corporation
    Inventors: Roland Jasmin, Jun Liu, Steve Mumma
  • Patent number: 11872418
    Abstract: Provided is a Fall Arrest Staple that includes a slanted base with a flat welding surface and an integral ring section extending from the base that is constructed from aluminum with a maximum internal radii that is capable of accepting a small carabineer. The staple can be welded to an aluminum pole, such as a 4?OD×0.25? mast that is found on a ship. Advantages provided by the staple include the ability of welding in a perpendicular orientation to a ship deck (in the direction of a fall), welding to a curved aluminum backing plate, and the use of the staple with a curved backing plate that can be welded directly to a ship mast.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 30, 2022
    Date of Patent: January 16, 2024
    Assignee: The United States of America, as Represented by the Secretary of the Navy
    Inventor: Donald A McFaddin
  • Patent number: 11795712
    Abstract: A fall arrest assembly for anchoring a fall arresting line to a pair of roof trusses includes a truss mount that has a pair of channels each being integrated into the truss mount. The pair of channels is oriented parallel with respect to each other to insertably receive a beam of a respective one of a pair of roof trusses thereby mounting the truss mount to the pair of roof trusses. An anchor box is integrated into the truss mount and the anchor box has an anchor point which is integrated into the anchor box. In this way the anchor point can have a fall arresting line attached to the anchor point thereby facilitating the fall arresting line to be mounted to the pair of roof trusses.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 10, 2022
    Date of Patent: October 24, 2023
    Inventor: Daniel Head
  • Patent number: 11757399
    Abstract: A structural support block cooperates with a cone-shaped protrusion in a roof flashing. The support block and protrusion have a through-hole allowing a fastener to secure the support block and flashing to a roof. Cooperation of the support block and the cone-shaped protrusion in the roof flashing diverts water, particularly on sloped surfaces.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 5, 2021
    Date of Patent: September 12, 2023
    Assignee: PEGASUS SOLAR, INC.
    Inventors: Erich Kai Stephan, Glenn Harris
  • Patent number: 11750143
    Abstract: A bracket for attaching solar panels to a roof, in the form of an L-foot, as well as devices and assemblies that utilize the L-foot. The L-foot includes a base and a riser extending upward from the base. The base includes a pair of raised stiffeners each extending obliquely upward toward each other from opposites sides of the base and each extending lengthwise along the base. The base can receive threaded roof fasteners that extend perpendicularly through the raised stiffeners and obliquely through the base. Threaded roof fasteners positioned on opposite raised stiffeners can extend through the roof deck toward each other. The L-foot is compatible with rail-based and rail-less solar panel racking systems.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 24, 2023
    Date of Patent: September 5, 2023
    Assignee: Sunmodo Corporation
    Inventors: Roland Jasmin, Jun Liu, Steve Mumma
  • Patent number: 11732490
    Abstract: A system includes a plurality of storage brackets installed on a roof deck, each including a base plate, an arm and optionally a head and a receptacle. The arm is optionally rotatable. The receptacle of one of a first pair of storage brackets is configured to receive the head of another of the first pair of storage brackets. The receptacle of one of a second pair of storage brackets is configured to receive the head of another of the second pair of storage brackets. The first and second pairs of storage brackets are spaced apart from one another. The brackets are configured to receive at least one roofing material, which is positioned on the base plate of at least one of the first pair of brackets and at least one of the second pair of brackets.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 11, 2022
    Date of Patent: August 22, 2023
    Assignee: GAF Energy LLC
    Inventors: Nikki Achor, Michael David Kuiper, Evan Michael Wray, Chris Kanaley, Brian West
  • Patent number: 11728760
    Abstract: A cross canal support structure for photovoltaic cells is disclosed. The structure includes a major frame having disconnectable and hinged connections to anchors at its corners, on either side of the canal. The major frame carries a plurality of minor frames, which are inclinable at an angle with respect to the major frame with the use of fixed or adjustable mounting plates. The combination of the major frame's tilt and the minor frame tilt enables fabrication of support structures that hold panels at latitude inclination for various portions of a canal.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 16, 2021
    Date of Patent: August 15, 2023
    Assignee: TECTONICUS CONSTRUCTS, LLC
    Inventors: Benjamin Lepley, George Cairo
  • Patent number: 11698166
    Abstract: An emergency escape device to which an escape rope is adapted to be secured, includes a unitary, one-piece steel anchor plate; a semi-spherical projection pressed outwardly of the center of the plate, to form an outward projection; portions of the outward projection cut out to form a central opening in the plate, while leaving an arcuate, outwardly extending securement band as a remnant of the outward projection to enable attachment of a carabiner; a peripheral opening cut out to one side of the central opening for receiving at least one bolt for securing the device to a wall; and at least one peripheral opening cut out at to an opposite side of the central opening for receiving at least one bolt member for securing the device to a wall; and the plate being heat treated to impart greater strength thereto.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 29, 2022
    Date of Patent: July 11, 2023
    Inventor: Gregory F. Ryan
  • Patent number: 11603675
    Abstract: Systems, devices and methods, etc., comprising anchors configured to attach to standing seams such as those typically present on metal roofs. The systems, etc., provide benefits such as improved anchorage points for personal fall protection anchorage devices and variability of and security of attachment to the standing seams. The personal fall protection anchorage devices can comprise a retention plate configured to hold the personal fall protection device to a central portion of the retention plate and having at least two y-axis spaced-apart slot configured to immobily hold opposed standing seam graspers each comprising at least two opposed grasping elements sized and configured to immobily squeeze standing seams of the metal roof.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 25, 2021
    Date of Patent: March 14, 2023
    Inventor: Steven Christopher Nichols
  • Patent number: 11554277
    Abstract: A fall protection system having one or more modules is provided. Each module is made of a structural sheet having a ridge and at least one attachment panel, and a user attachment mechanism. The attachment panel can be secured to a working structure. The module can further have a restraining mechanism for resisting at least lateral and rotational movement of the ridge up to a threshold force, and be configured to fail or deform and permit lateral and rotational movement of the ridge if the threshold force is exceeded. The restraining mechanism can be tabs extending from the attachment panel, fasteners, welds, or another mechanism for resisting lateral and rotational movement of the ridge.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 26, 2020
    Date of Patent: January 17, 2023
    Assignee: Unified Safety Inc.
    Inventor: Christopher Fabbi
  • Patent number: 11549274
    Abstract: There is provided a railing post adaptor for a roof support apparatus. The roof support apparatus comprises an elongate member having a plurality of longitudinal sides. The railing post adaptor comprises a roof support apparatus connector for securing the railing post adaptor to the roof support apparatus. The roof support apparatus connector comprises a first connection portion arranged to engage, in use, with a first set of the plurality of longitudinal sides, and a second connection portion, movably mounted to the first connection portion and arranged to engage, in use, with a second set of the plurality of longitudinal sides, the second set being different from the first set. The roof support apparatus connector further comprises a railing connection portion extending from the roof support apparatus connector for detachably securing a proximal end of a railing post to the roof support apparatus via the railing post adaptor. The first set and the second set each comprise at least two longitudinal sides.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 28, 2016
    Date of Patent: January 10, 2023
    Assignee: Oxford Safety Components Limited
    Inventors: John Alexander Black, Robert David Black
  • Patent number: 11512480
    Abstract: A system includes a plurality of storage brackets installed on a roof deck, each including a base plate, an arm and optionally a head and a receptacle. The arm is optionally rotatable. The receptacle of one of a first pair of storage brackets is configured to receive the head of another of the first pair of storage brackets. The receptacle of one of a second pair of storage brackets is configured to receive the head of another of the second pair of storage brackets. The first and second pairs of storage brackets are spaced apart from one another. The brackets are configured to receive at least one roofing material, which is positioned on the base plate of at least one of the first pair of brackets and at least one of the second pair of brackets.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 29, 2022
    Date of Patent: November 29, 2022
    Assignee: GAF Energy LLC
    Inventors: Nikki Achor, Michael David Kuiper, Evan Michael Wray, Chris Kanaley, Brian West
  • Patent number: 11486145
    Abstract: Disclosed herein are roof brackets, devices, and apparatuses for standing seam metal roofs to provide a removable place to place a foot. In one aspect, an apparatus may include a bracket configured to releasably secure to a standing seam of a panel, the bracket having a housing having at least one side comprising a slot configured to allow at least a portion of a standing seam to travel therethrough; a plurality of cams contained within the housing, the plurality of cams rotatably connected to the housing at a first portion of the plurality of the cams; at least one elongated member connected to at least one of the plurality of cams; and at least one tension element connected to the housing and in operable communication with at least one of the plurality of cams. Also disclosed herein are methods for using the disclosed roof brackets and apparatuses.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 31, 2019
    Date of Patent: November 1, 2022
    Inventor: Jim Mitchell
  • Patent number: 11437952
    Abstract: A mount for use over a roof flashing on a composition roof. The mount includes a central aperture for a fastener, a top surface with a horizontal platform extending laterally from the top surface, and a conical inner surface to cooperate with a conical protrusion on the roof flashing.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 13, 2020
    Date of Patent: September 6, 2022
    Assignee: PEGASUS SOLAR, INC.
    Inventors: Erich Kai Stephan, Glenn Harris, Nick Wenzel, Peter Wilke
  • Patent number: 11377862
    Abstract: A valley roof bracket is an adjustable V-shaped bracket having an upper cross-member upon which a triangular shaped platform may adjustably be positioned. The device may be secured to an angular side of a pitched roof.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 16, 2021
    Date of Patent: July 5, 2022
    Inventor: Richard Waldron
  • Patent number: 11367940
    Abstract: The pedestal supports a satellite antenna. The pedestal can be used by government or armed forces and allows them to easily and quickly transport and set up the pedestal. The pedestal can withstand harsh environmental conditions while still allowing the satellite antenna being supported by the pedestal to operate in the military communication bands. The pedestal meets military requirements and only allows a small amount of deflection in extreme conditions. The pedestal can be assembled by only two-man and the assembly can be performed entirely by hand without using any machines, tools, or mechanical parts beyond the provided pedestal components. The pedestal is made of carbon fiber which makes the pedestal robust, durable, and light weight. The dissembled pedestal components can be stored and transported in one container. A satellite communications terminal including the pedestal and a satellite antenna is also contemplated.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 26, 2020
    Date of Patent: June 21, 2022
    Assignee: Airbus DS Government Solutions, Inc.
    Inventor: Elijah Burley
  • Patent number: 11293605
    Abstract: An illuminating decorative device comprising a plurality of electrically conducting wires interconnected together as a lattice or web including a plurality of lights that are electrically coupled to an electrical power strip having one or more connectors for connecting to an external power source, where the illuminating decorative device is configured into various ornamental shapes or patterns including for example, snowcaps, or a spider web. The illuminating decorative device is easily and quickly attachable to buildings and other surfaces such as rooftops as one integral unit to provide decorative illumination during holiday seasons or festive occasions or celebrations.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 19, 2020
    Date of Patent: April 5, 2022
    Inventor: David Massinello
  • Patent number: 11271516
    Abstract: A roof mount assembly mounts a structure to a roof having a rafter and a substrate supported by the rafter. The roof mount assembly includes a piece of flashing positioned on the substrate. The flashing includes a first surface, a second surface opposite the first surface and an aperture extending through the flashing. A fastener extends through the flashing aperture. A bracket is connected to the flashing via the fastener, and the bracket is sized to support at least one roof-mounted structure on the roof. A seal is positioned between the flashing aperture and the fastener. The seal is sized to form a water-tight seal with the aperture to inhibit flow of fluid through the aperture. The seal includes a first portion and a second portion, in which the first portion is positioned to abut the flashing first surface and the second portion is positioned to extend through the aperture.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 1, 2021
    Date of Patent: March 8, 2022
    Assignee: Ecofasten Solar, LLC
    Inventors: Brian Cecil Stearns, Douglas Timothy Lounsbury
  • Patent number: 11242952
    Abstract: An adjustable support for a panel is provided to allow control of the height and the tilt angle of the panel. The support includes a hollow cylindrical base having an outer diameter D1; a first hollow piston having an outer diameter D2 threadably engaged with the base; a second hollow piston having an outer diameter D3 threadably engaged with the first piston; a third piston having an outer diameter D4 threadably engaged with the second piston, such that D1>D2>D3>D4. A ball pod extends from the third piston and accommodates a ball attached to the panel. One or more stepper motors are provided, where each stepper motor is coupled to a bottom portion of a respective piston, and a rotor of each stepper motor is configured to rotate the corresponding piston, thereby causing the piston to move along a longitudinal axis of the support.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 11, 2020
    Date of Patent: February 8, 2022
    Assignee: King Abdulaziz University
    Inventor: Mohannad Bayoumi
  • Patent number: 11236928
    Abstract: A curb assembly for a heating, ventilation, and/or air conditioning (HVAC) system includes a frame configured to couple to a curb of a structure, a pedestal system configured to couple to a housing of the HVAC system and to the frame, such that the pedestal system extends from the housing to the frame, and an adjustable duct connector configured to fluidly couple an air flow passage of the housing with ductwork of the structure. The pedestal system is configured to enclose a space formed between the frame and the housing and the adjustable duct connector configured to be disposed within the space.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 14, 2019
    Date of Patent: February 1, 2022
    Assignee: Johnson Controls Technology Company
    Inventors: Manjur Tamboli, Neelkanth S. Gupte, Sarjerao D. Pingale
  • Patent number: 11221034
    Abstract: Mounting clamps may be utilized to quickly and easily secure solar panel modules relative to mounting rails, which may in turn be secured relative to a mounting surface (e.g., a roof). The mounting clamps may be configured to quickly secure the solar pane modules relative to the mounting rails by tightening a tightening element to pull a clamp element toward the surface of a mounting rail, thereby clamping a portion (e.g., a frame) of a solar panel module between the clamping element and an outer surface of the mounting rail.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 9, 2021
    Date of Patent: January 11, 2022
    Assignee: Tamarack Solar Products, Inc.
    Inventor: David Katz
  • Patent number: 11118724
    Abstract: An adjustable support for a panel is provided to allow control of the height and the tilt angle of the panel. The support includes a hollow cylindrical base having an outer diameter D1; a first hollow piston having an outer diameter D2 threadably engaged with the base; a second hollow piston having an outer diameter D3 threadably engaged with the first piston; a third piston having an outer diameter D4 threadably engaged with the second piston, such that D1>D2>D3>D4. A ball pod extends from the third piston and accommodates a ball attached to the panel. One or more stepper motors are provided, where each stepper motor is coupled to a bottom portion of a respective piston, and a rotor of each stepper motor is configured to rotate the corresponding piston, thereby causing the piston to move along a longitudinal axis of the support.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 19, 2021
    Date of Patent: September 14, 2021
    Assignee: King Abdulaziz University
    Inventor: Mohannad Bayoumi
  • Patent number: 10998847
    Abstract: A structural support block cooperates with a cone-shaped protrusion in a roof flashing. The support block and protrusion have a through-hole allowing a fastener to secure the support block and flashing to a roof. Cooperation of the support block and the cone-shaped protrusion in the roof flashing diverts water, particularly on sloped surfaces.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 21, 2017
    Date of Patent: May 4, 2021
    Assignee: PEGASUS SOLAR INC.
    Inventors: Erich Kai Stephan, Glenn Harris
  • Patent number: 10876319
    Abstract: A support assembly for a rooftop shade system is provided. The support assembly includes a plate defining a plurality of parallel, angled slots that extend inward from one edge of the plate. The support assembly also includes a pole that is operatively connected to the plate such that the angle formed between the plate and the pole is selectively variable. The pole terminates at a pin that is insertable through a grommet on a tarp to thereby support the tarp.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 11, 2020
    Date of Patent: December 29, 2020
    Inventor: Howard R. Moeggenberg
  • Patent number: 10873288
    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: March 13, 2017
    Date of Patent: December 22, 2020
    Assignee: SolarCity Corporation
    Inventors: Jack Raymond West, Tyrus Hawkes Hudson
  • Patent number: 10837627
    Abstract: An inline clip for holding a light bulb along a light string includes a top flat area, two symmetrical sides, and two symmetrical tabs. The flat area has a constant width extending across a side profile and a constant thickness extending from a top surface of the top flat area to an internal surface of the top flat area. The two symmetrical sides extend in a continuous manner at respective upper ends from a left end and a right end of the top flat area, and are arcuate shaped for forming a hollow interior space configured to receive within the light bulb and a portion of the light string aligned side-by-side along a diameter of the light bulb. The two symmetrical tabs extend in a continuous manner at respective connecting ends from the lower ends of the two symmetrical sides.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 21, 2019
    Date of Patent: November 17, 2020
    Assignee: Ulta-Lit Tree Company
    Inventors: John DeCosmo, Gregory J. Foster, Robert W. Sheldon
  • Patent number: 10766430
    Abstract: Autonomous vehicles are made by fitting sensors to non-autonomous vehicle platforms. A mounting structure to mount rear-facing sensors to the vehicle is needed to provide sensor data about the rear environment of the vehicle. The mounting structure is secured to the vehicle by utilizing existing vehicle body structures. The vehicle body structures include rearward roof chassis parts that provide stability and security to the mounting structure.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 20, 2018
    Date of Patent: September 8, 2020
    Assignee: Toyota Motor Engineering & Manufacturing North America, Inc.
    Inventors: Scott L Frederick, Andrew L Sakowski, Bill Castleman
  • Patent number: 10749459
    Abstract: Disclosed is a solar panel top clamp assembly for securing solar panels to a support section such as a rail or rail-less mounting structure. The solar panel top clamp assembly includes a panel clamp and a base. The panel clamp includes a crossbar and a pair of legs projecting obliquely downward from the crossbar and angled inward toward one another. The panel clamp is secured to a pedestal that projects upward from a platform. The platform is captively slidable within the support section. The pedestal and platform together form a portion of the base. Thanks in part to the unique structure of the panel clamp, the solar panel top clamp assembly can perform the function of both an end-clamp and a mid-clamp.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 10, 2019
    Date of Patent: August 18, 2020
    Assignee: Sunmodo Corporation
    Inventors: Jun Liu, Roland Jasmin
  • Patent number: 10720882
    Abstract: A system for evaluation of soiling of solar photovoltaic (PV) modules may comprise a first pair of solar PV modules exposed to the elements, a second pair of solar PV modules enclosed within a protective housing having a glass cover; a component coupling the glass cover to the protective housing. The component may be configured to displace the glass cover for a limited period of time to temporarily expose the second pair of solar PV modules to the atmospheric elements.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 18, 2018
    Date of Patent: July 21, 2020
    Assignee: Arizona Board of Regents on behalf of Arizona State University
    Inventors: Govindasamy Tamizhmani, Sai Tatapudi
  • Patent number: 10707803
    Abstract: A photovoltaic (PV) module mounting system can have mounting clips that can be moved up and down a roof, and can allow the height of the mounting clips to be adjusted relative to the roof. At least a portion of the system can be made of a non-conductive material so that the system can be free of a grounding unit. The system can allow solar modules to be quickly installed, and can allow the solar modules to be removed quickly for repair or in the event of a fire.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 29, 2018
    Date of Patent: July 7, 2020
    Assignee: Tessolar Inc.
    Inventors: Jacob Van Reenen Pretorius, Leslie G. Fritzemeier, Malcolm Cummings, Yang Jin, Katherine Hartman, Alastair Taylor, Michael Ross Everman
  • Patent number: 10670168
    Abstract: A Conduit Tile Hook is disclosed for supporting a conduit above a roof. The Conduit Tile Hook simply slides under an existing roof tile, without cut-outs or removing any nails, and allows the conduit to sit 1.5? off of the roof surface to decrease the effects of heating caused by solar irradiance.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 28, 2018
    Date of Patent: June 2, 2020
    Assignee: MYCROGRID ELECTRIC CORP.
    Inventors: Isaac Jorge Gamez, Matthew Christopher De La Torre
  • Patent number: 10601363
    Abstract: A device and method for a rotatable photovoltaic (PV) panel mount is described. A moving frame, comprising a standard PV panel, connects via a hinge to a fixed frame. In an “operative” position, the moving frame and its PV panel are coplanar with a larger, fixed array of PV panels. A spring between the fixed frame and the moving frame powers the moving frame to rotate around the hinge pivot from horizontal (operative) to vertical (roof access), when an emergency handle releases a latch. The roof access position provides unobstructed roof access to a portion of the roof previously under the PV panel. A damper limits speed of motion of the moving frame. Embodiments include an additional horizontal (folded) position, on top of an adjacent PV panel.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 18, 2019
    Date of Patent: March 24, 2020
    Inventor: Kim Rubin
  • Patent number: 10576315
    Abstract: There is disclosed an anchor assembly for coupling a tether to a structure such as a rock wall (14) in a fitted condition with a fastening arrangement having a fastener. The anchor assembly includes an anchor body having a first portion located toward a first end adapted to couple with the tether and a second portion located toward a second end. The second portion is adapted to receive the fastener in the fitted condition. The anchor assembly also includes an indicator arranged to be engagable in the fitted condition between the fastening arrangement and the anchor body. The indicator includes a body portion and a deformable portion extending from the body portion, the deformable portion being adapted to be moveable relative to the body portion between an initial non-deformed condition and a deformed condition in response to loading of the fastening arrangement.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 3, 2016
    Date of Patent: March 3, 2020
    Assignee: LIFEPOINT INTERNATIONAL PTY. LIMITED
    Inventors: Andrew John Pascoe, Paul David Barwick
  • Patent number: 10511255
    Abstract: Some embodiments relate to an attachment system for attaching at least one panel to a supporting structure that includes at least one girder extending in a first direction, the girder including a holding rim and a surface for bearing the panel thereon. The system includes a flange, a clamp and a clamping assembly linking the flange to the clamp, which are arranged so as to sandwich, during assembly, the holding rim of the girder with the panel so that they bear on the bearing surface of the girder. The clamp includes a first series of teeth projecting towards the flange in a manner substantially parallel to an axis of the clamping assembly. The teeth are to engage, via gripping, with the holding rim of the girder during assembly.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 4, 2016
    Date of Patent: December 17, 2019
    Assignee: EXOSUN
    Inventors: Alexandre Prat, François Paponneau
  • Patent number: 10469023
    Abstract: In various embodiments, the mounting systems described herein may be configured to mount a solar panel array to a flat concrete roof like those found throughout the Caribbean and Central and South America. Other systems described herein may be configured to facilitate mounting structures on standing seam metals roofs. Still other systems described herein may be configured to facilitate mounting structures on composite shingle, slate, or tile roofs. The mounting systems described herein may be configured as rail-less or rails free roof mounting systems.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 23, 2018
    Date of Patent: November 5, 2019
    Assignee: EcoFasten Solar, LLC
    Inventors: Brian Cecil Stearns, Alexander Grant Bornemann
  • Patent number: 10461684
    Abstract: A device and method for a rotatable photovoltaic (PV) panel mount is described. A moving frame, comprising a standard PV panel, connects via a hinge to a fixed frame. In an “operative” position, the moving frame and its PV panel are coplanar with a larger, fixed array of PV panels. A spring between the fixed frame and the moving frame powers the moving frame to rotate around the hinge pivot from horizontal (operative) to vertical (roof access), when an emergency handle releases a latch. This “roof access” position now allows roof access through a portion of the roof that was covered by the moving frame in its operative position. A damper, such as a flywheel, limits the rotational speed and prevents injury or damage. Embodiments include kits, installation of embodiments, and use of the invention to access a roof portion in a fire emergency.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 23, 2019
    Date of Patent: October 29, 2019
    Inventor: Kim Rubin
  • Patent number: 10432136
    Abstract: An installation assembly for a photovoltaic module comprises a base plate, a pressing block, a elastic member, and a connecting member. The base plate comprises a connecting portion. The pressing block comprises a pressing portion, a supporting portion, and a sliding portion. The sliding portion is movably connected to the base plate. The elastic member is located between the connecting portion and the supporting portion. The connecting member sequentially inserted into the pressing block, the elastic member, and the base plate. The pressing block, the elastic member, and the base plate are positioned between two ends of the connecting member.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 7, 2017
    Date of Patent: October 1, 2019
    Assignee: AMBIT MICROSYSTEMS (SHANGHAI) LTD.
    Inventor: Kai-Ming Lu
  • Patent number: 10367446
    Abstract: A mount for a solar panel capable of changing a tilt angle of the solar panel easily and positively, includes a tilted support frame including a pair of horizontal members extending along a horizontal direction in parallel with different heights and a pair of tilted members arranged between the horizontal members and extending in parallel to be tilted in one side, a fixed support member fixing and supporting the tilted support frame, a square-shaped panel support member on which a solar panel is fixed, a support shaft extending between the tilted support frame and the panel support member and supporting the panel support member to rotate, and a pair of stopper members respectively provided on both rotating end sides of the panel support member so that one end portions rotate freely and including engaging concave portions engaged with half circumferences of outer peripheries of the horizontal members.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 19, 2015
    Date of Patent: July 30, 2019
    Assignees: FUJI SEIKO CO., LTD., FUJI SHOJI CO., LTD.
    Inventor: Tatsumi Tanaka
  • Patent number: 10347993
    Abstract: An antenna module installation system comprising a baseplate and a carrier chassis. The baseplate is configured to couple to an antenna dish assembly, and comprises an antenna module mounting apparatus including an alignment portion and a retention portion. The carrier chassis is configured to retain an antenna module, such as antenna hub amplifier, and comprises an engaging apparatus. The carrier chassis is configured to allow multiple manufacturers versions of a component to be used through adapter components. The engaging apparatus is configured to engage with the alignment portion, which positions the carrier chassis in a mounting alignment, and to move from the alignment portion to the retention portion which retains the carrier chassis in engagement with the baseplate. The engaging apparatus is designed to allow that direct connections to the component in the carrier chassis are disconnected prior to its removal.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 30, 2017
    Date of Patent: July 9, 2019
    Assignee: HUGHES NETWORK SYSTEMS, LLC
    Inventors: Peter McLaren, Kumud Patel
  • Patent number: 10329779
    Abstract: A standing seam mounting bracket and a method of using two or three to provide attachment points along a standing seam roof is provided. The standing seam mounting brackets enable complementary use of commonly-owned equipment for enabling roof maintenance and construction. The standing seam mounting brackets may be used in concert with roof jacks, roof ladders, scaffolding members and the like that are commonly owned by most contractors so as to facilitate safe and easy horizontal and vertical movement along the sloped roof.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 17, 2017
    Date of Patent: June 25, 2019
    Inventor: Scott G. Bond
  • Patent number: 10312854
    Abstract: A roof vent for supporting a solar panel is provided. The roof vent includes a vent member and a solar panel support element. The vent member is sized and shaped to mimic the appearance of a roof cover element. The vent member includes an upper portion and a lower portion, the upper portion separated from the lower portion by a gap. The solar panel support element is attached to the vent member.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 12, 2018
    Date of Patent: June 4, 2019
    Inventor: Gregory S. Daniels
  • Patent number: 10298170
    Abstract: A photovoltaic mounting system having an elongated connector base. The elongated connector base can included photovoltaic module connector portion for supporting a pair of elevated photovoltaic modules above the base. The base may include a captive screw system for holding a pair of mounting screws in place prior to installation and functioning as a screw guide during installation. An assistance clamp fits over the elongated base under the photovoltaic module connector portion to secure the elongated connector base to relatively narrow portion of a roof to provide lateral stability to the elongated connector base.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 28, 2016
    Date of Patent: May 21, 2019
    Assignee: SolarCity Corporation
    Inventors: David Molina, Geoffrey John Fedoroff
  • Patent number: 10288319
    Abstract: A color steel tile fixture includes a limit part having a limit groove; a clamping assembly including two opposite clamping parts which are each equipped with, from top to bottom in sequence, a clamping head, a bump defining a slope, and a clamping splice; a connecting block provided with a threaded hole and two opposite arc grooves on either side of the threaded hole, the clamping head of each clamping part being rotatably engaged in a respective arc groove of the two opposite arc grooves; a threaded part which is screwed into the threaded hole; and a connecting part. When the threaded part is screwed, the connecting block moves upward along the threaded part causing side panels of the limit groove to engage the slopes of the bumps, so that the clamping parts are biased inwardly such that the clamping splices are configured to clamp a color steel tile.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 15, 2016
    Date of Patent: May 14, 2019
    Assignee: Jiangsu Chiko Solar Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Jinbei Li, Yuanling Lin
  • Patent number: 10224452
    Abstract: A method is provided of fabricating a photo voltaic generator panel (15) including a polymer back sheet (24) with at least one attachment feature (21) so as to provide means of attaching the panel to a structural support (25) upon subsequent installation. At least one polymer attachment feature (21) is applied to the outer side of the polymer back sheet of the panel during the manufacturing process for the panel whereby the attachment feature projects with respect to the back sheet. The application may be in conjunction with a lamination process, or subsequent to the lamination process, or as an integral part of the back sheet manufacturing process. The attachment feature is adapted to engage with a corresponding feature (26) or features to be found on a support structure (25) located at a site for the installation of the panel. The said at least one polymer attachment feature and said outer side of the polymer back sheet have a similar thermal expansion coefficient.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 27, 2011
    Date of Patent: March 5, 2019
    Assignee: REC SOLAR PTE. LTD.
    Inventors: Borge Bjorneklett, Oystein Holm, Erik Sauar
  • Patent number: 10132074
    Abstract: The invention is related to methods and pergola systems comprising a plurality of pergola components, a plurality of pergola brackets that engage with the pergola components and allow for the pergola components to attach to a building at a range of angles with respect to the pergola bracket.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 23, 2017
    Date of Patent: November 20, 2018
    Inventor: Grady Pace
  • Patent number: 10126188
    Abstract: A hail strike recording device is operable to provide quantifiable information about a hail storm event experienced by a roof. The recording device is operable to be installed on a roof and includes a panel component and a mounting assembly. The panel component presents a hail impact zone to sense one or more hail strikes, with the recording device operable to provide recorded data associated with the sensed one or more hail strikes.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 20, 2016
    Date of Patent: November 13, 2018
    Assignee: Hail Signature Technologies, L.L.C.
    Inventors: Carl Edwin Martin, Matthew Shane Sutter, Walter Wayne Sutter
  • Patent number: 9960481
    Abstract: Various embodiments provide an antenna hitch mount for securing an antenna, such as a satellite dish, to a vehicle. According to one embodiment, the hitch mount includes a hitch mounting portion, a plate, and an antenna mounting portion. The hitch mounting portion is configured to be inserted in to a hitch. The hitch mounting portion includes holes that are on opposite sides of the hitch mounting portion and are aligned with each other. The plate is used to couple the hitch mounting portion and the antenna mounting portion to each other. The antenna mounting portion is configured to support an antenna. Namely, an antenna is secured to the antenna mounting portion by a fastening device, such as a mast clamp.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 18, 2016
    Date of Patent: May 1, 2018
    Assignee: DISH Technologies L.L.C.
    Inventors: William Roberts, Matthew Bailey
  • Patent number: 9951557
    Abstract: A roofing ladder bracket and safety assembly adapted to be secured to a roof of a building comprising a base member and a clamping member configured as a ladder clamping mechanism for firmly securing a ladder to a roof of a building and including a safety mechanism to which a worker's safety equipment or a worker's tethered tool can be attached.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 25, 2015
    Date of Patent: April 24, 2018
    Assignee: SLATOR, LLC
    Inventors: Ronald Newman Roseveare, Jr., Bryan Douglas Relyea, Nicholas Mark Liberto
  • Patent number: 9856900
    Abstract: A step bolt connector and bolt assembly creates steps on a structure for accommodating a worker's boot. A first threaded bore is formed in a cylindrical end of a step bolt connector and this first threaded bore is threaded onto an exposed bolt on a structure. A sight hole extends from the exterior of the connector to the inward end of the first threaded bore for visually checking to see if the bolt is adequately attached in the first bore. A recess is formed in the cylindrical end and the recess is dimensioned to fit over fastening nut on the exposed bolt on the structure. When the first threaded bore is screwed onto the exposed bolts on the structure, the recess at least partially surrounds shields and protects the fastening nut on the exposed end of the bolt. A second threaded bore is formed in a second end (a truncated conical end) of the connector, and a step bolt is secured in the second threaded bore.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 1, 2015
    Date of Patent: January 2, 2018
    Assignee: Allfasteners USA, LLC
    Inventors: Michael Strange, Bruce A. Carmichael
  • Patent number: 9853595
    Abstract: A fixture includes a substitutive roof member that includes a base part, a base opening, a tubular wall that is erected from a peripheral edge of the base opening, a top face that extends inwardly from a top end of the tubular wall and forms a top face opening, and a pair of guide surfaces that each extend downward from peripheral sides of the top face opening, the substitutive roof member being made of a metal; and a mounting base that includes a pair of planar bottom plates that is provided in such a size as to pass through the top face opening, a pair of rising walls that are each erected from inner sides of the bottom plates, a connection part that connects upper sides of the rising walls, and a fixing member mounting part that is exposed at the connection part for mounting a bolt.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 18, 2016
    Date of Patent: December 26, 2017
    Assignee: Yanegijutsukenkyujo Co., Ltd.
    Inventor: Katsuyuki Okado