Pivot-Fit Frame, System and Method for Photovoltaic Arrays

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.

1 . A bracket for mounting a photovoltaic module comprising:
 a coupling portion adapted to connect said bracket to a PV module; and   a pivoting mechanism adapted to connect said bracket to a structural system.   
     
     
         2 . The bracket of  claim 1  wherein said pivoting mechanism comprises a pivot portion and an engaging portion, said engaging portion being adapted to rotate substantially about said pivot portion and to engage at least a portion of said structural system. 
     
     
         3 . The bracket of  claim 1  wherein said structural system comprises a rail and said bracket connects to said rail. 
     
     
         4 . The bracket of  claim 1  wherein said pivoting mechanism further comprises a connecting arm, said connecting arm extending outward from said pivot portion and connecting said bracket to said structural system. 
     
     
         5 . The bracket of  claim 1  wherein said connecting arm comprises a spring clip. 
     
     
         6 . A bracket for mounting a photovoltaic module wherein:
 said bracket is positionable essentially along a length of a portion of a structural system at a first angle and connects to said structural system at a second angle less than said first angle.   
     
     
         7 . The bracket of  claim 6  further comprising an arm and an engaging portion, said arm being operable to rock said bracket and to cause said engaging portion to deform at least a portion of a structural system. 
     
     
         8 . The bracket of  claim 6  wherein said bracket is positionable essentially anywhere along said length of said portion of said structural system. 
     
     
         9 . The bracket of  claim 6  wherein said structural system essentially comprises a rail. 
     
     
         10 . The bracket of  claim 6 , wherein at least a portion of said bracket deforms at least a portion of said structural system when said bracket is connected to said structural system. 
     
     
         11 . A bracket for mounting a photovoltaic module comprising:
 a lever arm and an engaging portion, said lever arm being operable to engage said engaging portion with at least a portion of a structural system.   
     
     
         12 . The bracket of  claim 11  wherein said bracket rocks. 
     
     
         13 . The bracket of  claim 11  wherein said lever arm is adapted for connecting to at least a portion of said structural system. 
     
     
         14 . The bracket of  claim 13  wherein said lever arm comprises a spring clip. 
     
     
         15 . The bracket of  claim 11  wherein said bracket further comprises a rocking portion, said lever arm protruding in a first direction away from said rocking portion and said engaging portion protruding in a second direction away from said rocking portion. 
     
     
         16 . The bracket of  claim 11  wherein said structural system comprises a ballast portion. 
     
     
         17 . The bracket of  claim 11  wherein at least a portion of said structural system comprises essentially a rail. 
     
     
         18 . The bracket of  claim 11  further comprising a coupling and a rocking portion, said coupling comprising a second portion extending in a direction away from said rocking portion for connecting to said photovoltaic module and an adjacent photovoltaic module. 
     
     
         19 . The bracket of  claim 12  wherein said bracket deforms at least a portion of said structural system when said bracket is rocked. 
     
     
         20 . The bracket of  claim 19  wherein said deformation provides a ground bond between said bracket and said structural system.