Abstract:
A circuit breaker system is provided that receives combined power inputs from a utility and from an alternative energy source for backfeeding to the utility through a standard breaker box without overloading the bus bars of the breaker box.
Abstract:
Systems and methods for assembling and wiring photovoltaic arrays are provided. The wiring systems can include retractable wires included in photovoltaic modules that may be extended during installation of photovoltaic modules in the array to connect to wires of adjacent photovoltaic modules, which can retract into a tightened position under the array as the installation is completed. The wires may be made retractable by wire retraction mechanisms mounted to a frame of the photovoltaic module, which maintain a desired tension on the wires of the photovoltaic module. The wire retraction mechanism may include springs that urge components connected to the wire to rotate a particular direction so as to maintain tension on the wire. The wiring systems may also have wire guides to keep the wires accessible for installation and adjustment.
Abstract:
A system for connecting a photovoltaic mounting rail onto a mounting post using a connection system with a pair of interlocking grasps having interdigitated fingers that can be locked into the mounting rail when moved by a fastening system.
Abstract:
A roof-mounted venting device or assembly adapted for use with roof mounted photovoltaic (PV) panels is provided. Venting devices and assemblies can include a replacement flashing that fits over a cut-down roof pipe vent as well as venting assemblies that redirect airflow from a roof pipe vent. Such replacement flashing can include a substantially planar flashing portion from which protrudes a hood portion with one or more vent openings to allow airflow into and out from the interior of the hood portion. The vent openings can be configured as a series of louvered openings that open in a down-roof direction to prevent flow of run-off and debris into the hood portion. Venting assemblies can include a coupling portion for mating with a vent-pipe, a section of hose or piping to redirect airflow, and a venting portion disposed outside or between roof-mounted solar panels.
Abstract:
Flexible interconnects for attaching overlapping strings that can be part of a photovoltaic module. The interconnects can absorb strain caused by non-uniform heating and other loads encountered by the photovoltaic module.
Abstract:
A system for connecting a photovoltaic mounting rail onto a mounting post using a connection system with a pair of interlocking grasps having interdigitated fingers that can be locked into the mounting rail when moved by a fastening system.
Abstract:
An interlocking system for connecting photovoltaic module frames to a torque tube, including: (a) an interlock dimensioned to be positioned between the sides of two adjacent photovoltaic module frames; (b) a pair of couplings or flanges, wherein the couplings or flanges connect the interlock to both of the adjacent photovoltaic module frames; and (c) a U-lock connected to the interlock, wherein the U-lock is dimensioned to be connected to a torque tube.
Abstract:
A photovoltaic module mounting assembly including a photovoltaic module lever lock and base portion for attaching photovoltaic modules to a roof surface. The base portion includes one or more parallel channels that provide access to one or more corresponding recesses formed in a top surface of the base portion. The lever lock includes a lobe at one end, a torque lever at the other and supports a photovoltaic module connector. The lobe is dimensioned to fit into the channel at a first orientation, and upon rotation of approximately 90 degrees, to fit into the recess at a second orientation. The module connector may support two or more photovoltaic modules.
Abstract:
Roof-mounted venting devices adapted for use with roof mounted photovoltaic (PV) panels are provided. Venting devices and assemblies can include a replacement flashing that fits over a cut-down roof pipe vent as well as venting assemblies that redirect airflow from a roof pipe vent. Such replacement flashing can include a substantially planar flashing portion having a raised portion for accommodating any residual flashing or roofing debris. Such replacement flashing may further include a hood portion with one or more vent openings to allow airflow into and out from the interior of the hood portion. Venting assemblies can include a coupling portion for mating with a vent-pipe, a section of hose or piping to redirect airflow, and a venting portion disposed outside or between roof-mounted solar panels.