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Title: Photovoltaic module kit including connector assembly for non-penetrating array installation

Patent ·
OSTI ID:1113540

A PV module kit for non-penetrating rooftop installation, including a plurality of PV modules and a plurality of connectors. Each of the PV modules includes a PV laminate and a frame forming a mounting region assembled thereto. The connectors include a male connector having a male fastener extending from a head, and a female connector having a female fastener assempbled within a head. The heads are entirely formed of plastic. The kit provides a mounted array state including a junction at which the mounting regions of at least two of the PV modules are aligned and interconnected by engagement of the male connector with the female connector. The so-formed junction is substantially electrically insulated. The plurality of connectors can further include a spacer connector including a head forming a bore sized slidably receive the male fastener, with all of the connector heads being identical.

Research Organization:
SunPower Corporation, San Jose, CA, USA
Sponsoring Organization:
USDOE
DOE Contract Number:
FC36-07GO17043
Assignee:
SunPower Corporation (San Jose, CA)
Patent Number(s):
8,615,941
Application Number:
13/624,521
OSTI ID:
1113540
Country of Publication:
United States
Language:
English

References (8)

Roof system utilizing a solar cell patent March 1996
Solar panel assembly and support pad patent October 1980
Floating Support Structure for a Solar Panel Array patent-application May 2006
Modular Shade System patent-application December 2004
Plastic fastener system patent March 2003
Modular roof covering system patent August 2003
Weldable plastic fastener patent September 1997
Tracking solar shelter patent May 2009

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