U.S. patent application number 17/157201 was filed with the patent office on 2021-05-13 for systems and apparatuses for carport with integrated precipitation and cable management.
This patent application is currently assigned to SUNPOWER CORPORATION. The applicant listed for this patent is SUNPOWER CORPORATION. Invention is credited to Sushrut G. BAPAT, John KAPLA, Jeremy MANSELL, Nicholas J. MCKIBBEN, Gary A. ROSSI, Elizabeth SCHULTE, Andrew R. WOLF.
Application Number | 20210140187 17/157201 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 1000005358791 |
Filed Date | 2021-05-13 |
United States Patent
Application |
20210140187 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
MCKIBBEN; Nicholas J. ; et
al. |
May 13, 2021 |
SYSTEMS AND APPARATUSES FOR CARPORT WITH INTEGRATED PRECIPITATION
AND CABLE MANAGEMENT
Abstract
A solar power generation assembly includes a vertical support
column; a canopy including a plurality of solar modules for solar
power generation; a first brace and a second brace on a first side
of the support column to support the canopy; a third brace and a
fourth brace on a second side of the support column to support the
canopy; and a gutter system integrated into the canopy and
directing precipitation along one or more of the second brace and
the fourth brace to the support column. One or more of the first
brace and the third brace manage electrical cables extending from
the canopy to the support column.
Inventors: |
MCKIBBEN; Nicholas J.;
(Oakland, CA) ; KAPLA; John; (Mill Valley, CA)
; BAPAT; Sushrut G.; (Alameda, CA) ; SCHULTE;
Elizabeth; (Oakland, CA) ; ROSSI; Gary A.;
(Pleasant Hill, CA) ; MANSELL; Jeremy; (Berkeley,
CA) ; WOLF; Andrew R.; (Burlingame, CA) |
|
Applicant: |
Name |
City |
State |
Country |
Type |
SUNPOWER CORPORATION |
San Jose |
CA |
US |
|
|
Assignee: |
SUNPOWER CORPORATION
San Jose
CA
|
Family ID: |
1000005358791 |
Appl. No.: |
17/157201 |
Filed: |
January 25, 2021 |
Related U.S. Patent Documents
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Application
Number |
Filing Date |
Patent Number |
|
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16715402 |
Dec 16, 2019 |
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17157201 |
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16529375 |
Aug 1, 2019 |
10533337 |
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16715402 |
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|
15936021 |
Mar 26, 2018 |
10428547 |
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16529375 |
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29639281 |
Mar 5, 2018 |
D850363 |
|
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15936021 |
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62608329 |
Dec 20, 2017 |
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62593475 |
Dec 1, 2017 |
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Current U.S.
Class: |
1/1 |
Current CPC
Class: |
H02S 20/10 20141201;
E04H 15/34 20130101; E04H 6/42 20130101; H02S 20/20 20141201; H02S
20/23 20141201; E04H 6/08 20130101; E04H 6/025 20130101 |
International
Class: |
E04H 6/42 20060101
E04H006/42; E04H 6/08 20060101 E04H006/08; H02S 20/20 20060101
H02S020/20; E04H 15/34 20060101 E04H015/34; H02S 20/10 20060101
H02S020/10; H02S 20/23 20060101 H02S020/23; E04H 6/02 20060101
E04H006/02 |
Claims
1. A solar power generation assembly, comprising: a support column;
a canopy including first and second canopy portions, each including
solar modules configured to generate solar power; a plurality of
braces arranged on different sides of the support column and
configured to support the first and second canopy portions and to
manage electrical cables extending from the canopy to the support
column; and a gutter system integrated into the canopy and
configured to direct precipitation from the canopy along at least
one of the plurality of braces.
Description
CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATION
[0001] This application is a continuation of U.S. application Ser.
No. 16/715,402, filed Dec. 16, 2019, which is a continuation of
U.S. application Ser. No. 16/529,375 (now U.S. Pat. No.
10,533,337), filed Aug. 1, 2019, which is a continuation of U.S.
application Ser. No. 15/936,021 (now U.S. Pat. No. 10,428,547),
filed Mar. 26, 2018, which is a continuation and claims the benefit
of U.S. Design Application No. 29/639,281 (now U.S. Pat. No.
D850,363), filed Mar. 5, 2018, which claims the benefit of U.S.
Provisional Application No. 62/593,475, filed Dec. 1, 2017 and U.S.
Provisional Application No. 62/608,329 filed Dec. 20, 2017, which
are all incorporated herein by reference in their entirety.
BACKGROUND
[0002] The "background" description provided herein is for the
purpose of generally presenting the context of the disclosure. Work
of the presently named inventors, to the extent it is described in
this background section, as well as aspects of the description
which may not otherwise qualify as prior art at the time of filing,
are neither expressly or impliedly admitted as prior art against
the present invention.
[0003] To reduce dependence on fossil fuels (both domestic and
imported) and reduce the negative environmental impacts of such
fuel emissions, there is a need to increase the distributed power
generation base. Similarly, there is a need to maximize the value
and productivity of single-use real estate to facilitate such
things as mounting for PV or solar modules, shade for cars, shade
for outdoor activities and other events and purposes. Complications
and limitations associated with rooftop installations make
incorporating solar power generation systems in underutilized open
spaces one such means of addressing these needs. This will
necessitate an increase of the electrical transmission
infrastructure.
[0004] Conventional support structures for PV power systems are
typically designed such that the module arrays are oriented along a
single slope plane. Several drawbacks of these structures include
limited sight lines from beneath the structures, avalanching of
snow and ice from the system, and difficulty of deployment on
parking lots that are not ideally geographically oriented.
Accordingly, there is a need for an improved solar power generation
assembly and methods for providing same.
SUMMARY
[0005] The foregoing paragraphs have been provided by way of
general introduction, and are not intended to limit the scope of
the following claims. The described embodiments, together with
further advantages, will be best understood by reference to the
following detailed description taken in conjunction with the
accompanying drawings.
[0006] According to embodiments of the disclosed subject matter, a
carport includes a casting, wherein a first brace and a second
brace on a first side of the casting support a canopy, and a third
brace and a fourth brace on a second side of the casting also
support the canopy. One or more of the first brace and the third
brace are configured for electrical cable management, wherein
electrical cables disposed within the first brace extend from the
canopy through the first side of the casting, and electrical cables
disposed within the third brace extend from the canopy through the
second side of the casting. Additionally, one or more of the second
brace and the fourth brace are configured for precipitation
management, wherein a gutter system integrated into the canopy
directs precipitation to the second brace and the fourth brace, and
the second brace and the fourth brace direct the precipitation from
the canopy toward the casting.
[0007] According to embodiments of the disclosed subject matter, a
support structure includes a casting, wherein support structure
includes a first brace and a second brace on a first side of the
casting and a third brace and a fourth brace on a second side of
the casting, wherein one or more of the first brace and the third
brace are configured for electrical cable management, wherein
electrical cables are disposed within the first brace extend
through the first side of the casting, and electrical cables
disposed within the third brace extend through the second side of
the casting. Additionally, one or more of the second brace and the
fourth brace are configured for precipitation management, wherein
precipitation flows through the second brace and the fourth brace
to direct precipitation toward the casting.
[0008] According to embodiments of the disclosed subject matter, a
dual-tilt carport includes a casting. Additionally, the dual-tilt
carport includes a first brace and a second brace on a first side
of the casting supporting a first portion of a canopy, wherein the
first portion of the canopy is tilted at a first predetermined tilt
angle. Further, the dual-tilt carport includes a third brace and a
fourth brace on a second side of the casting supporting a second
portion of the canopy, wherein the second portion of the canopy is
tilted at a first predetermined tilt angle, wherein the first
portion of the canopy is longer than the second portion of the
canopy. Additionally, one or more of the first brace and the third
brace are configured for electrical cable management, wherein
electrical cables disposed within the first brace extend from one
or more of the first portion of the canopy and the second portion
of the canopy through the first side of the casting, and electrical
cables disposed within the third brace extend from one or more of
the first portion of the canopy and the second portion of the
canopy through the second side of the casting. Additionally, one or
more of the second brace and the fourth brace are configured for
precipitation management, wherein a gutter system integrated into
the first and second portion of the canopy directs precipitation to
the second brace and the fourth brace, and the second brace and the
fourth brace direct the precipitation from the first and second
portion of the canopy toward the casting.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0009] A more complete appreciation of the disclosure and many of
the attendant advantages thereof will be readily obtained as the
same becomes better understood by reference to the following
detailed description when considered in connection with the
accompanying drawings, wherein:
[0010] FIG. 1 depicts an exemplary solar power generation assembly
according to one or more aspects of the disclosed subject
matter;
[0011] FIG. 2 depicts an exemplary solar power generation assembly
according to one or more aspects of the disclosed subject
matter;
[0012] FIG. 3 depicts an exemplary solar power generation assembly
according to one or more aspects of the disclosed subject
matter;
[0013] FIG. 4A depicts an exemplary single-tilt carport at a first
predetermined tilt angle according to one or more aspects of the
disclosed subject matter;
[0014] FIG. 4B depicts an exemplary single-tilt carport at a second
predetermined tilt angle according to one or more aspects of the
disclosed subject matter;
[0015] FIG. 5A depicts an exemplary dual-tilt carport in a first
predetermined tilt angle configuration according to one or more
aspects of the disclosed subject matter;
[0016] FIG. 5B depicts an exemplary dual-tilt carport in a second
predetermined tilt angle configuration according to one or more
aspects of the disclosed subject matter;
[0017] FIG. 5C depicts an exemplary dual-tilt carport in a third
predetermined tilt angle configuration according to one or more
aspects of the disclosed subject matter;
[0018] FIG. 6 depicts an exemplary precipitation flow according to
one or more aspects of the disclosed subject matter;
[0019] FIG. 7A depicts an exemplary external portion for
precipitation management according to one or more aspects of the
disclosed subject matter;
[0020] FIG. 7B depicts an exemplary internal portion for
precipitation management according to one or more aspects of the
disclosed subject matter;
[0021] FIG. 8 depicts an exemplary integrated charging station
according to one or more aspects of the disclosed subject
matter;
[0022] FIG. 9 depicts exemplary integrated lighting according to
one or more aspects of the disclosed subject matter;
[0023] FIG. 10 depicts exemplary purlin connection according to one
or more aspects of the disclosed subject matter;
[0024] FIG. 11A depicts an exemplary casting according to one or
more aspects of the disclosed subject matter;
[0025] FIG. 11B depicts an exemplary casting according to one or
more aspects of the disclosed subject matter;
[0026] FIG. 12A depicts an exemplary placement for an inverter
according to one or more aspects of the disclosed subject
matter;
[0027] FIG. 12B depicts an exemplary placement for an inverter
according to one or more aspects of the disclosed subject
matter;
[0028] FIG. 13A depicts an exemplary column-to-brace weldment
according to one or more aspects of the disclosed subject
matter;
[0029] FIG. 13B depicts an exemplary column-to-brace casting
according to one or more aspects of the disclosed subject
matter;
[0030] FIG. 14A depicts a perspective view of an exemplary
crossbeam according to one or more aspects of the disclosed subject
matter;
[0031] FIG. 14B depicts a lengthwise end view of an exemplary
crossbeam according to one or more aspects of the disclosed subject
matter;
[0032] FIG. 15A depicts an exemplary connection of a crossbeam
connected to a purlin according to one or more aspects of the
disclosed subject matter;
[0033] FIG. 15B depicts an exemplary connection apparatus
configured to attach a crossbeam to a purlin according to one or
more aspects of the disclosed subject matter;
[0034] FIG. 16A depicts an exemplary row of photovoltaic modules
according to one or more aspects of the disclosed subject
matter;
[0035] FIG. 16B depicts an exemplary purlin coupler according to
one or more aspects of the disclosed subject matter;
[0036] FIG. 16C depicts an exemplary purlin end cap according to
one or more aspects of the disclosed subject matter;
[0037] FIG. 16D depicts an end view of an exemplary purlin coupler
according to one or more aspects of the disclosed subject matter;
and
[0038] FIG. 16E depicts an exemplary washer block according to one
or more aspects of the disclosed subject matter.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION
[0039] The description set forth below in connection with the
appended drawings is intended as a description of various
embodiments of the disclosed subject matter and is not necessarily
intended to represent the only embodiment(s). In certain instances,
the description includes specific details for the purpose of
providing an understanding of the disclosed subject matter.
However, it will be apparent to those skilled in the art that
embodiments may be practiced without these specific details. In
some instances, well-known structures and components may be shown
in block diagram form in order to avoid obscuring the concepts of
the disclosed subject matter.
[0040] Reference throughout the specification to "one embodiment"
or "an embodiment" means that a particular feature, structure,
characteristic, operation, or function described in connection with
an embodiment is included in at least one embodiment of the
disclosed subject matter. Thus, any appearance of the phrases "in
one embodiment" or "in an embodiment" in the specification is not
necessarily referring to the same embodiment. Further, the
particular features, structures, characteristics, operations, or
functions may be combined in any suitable manner in one or more
embodiments. Further, it is intended that embodiments of the
disclosed subject matter can and do cover modifications and
variations of the described embodiments.
[0041] It must be noted that, as used in the specification and the
appended claims, the singular forms "a," "an," and "the" include
plural referents unless the context clearly dictates otherwise.
That is, unless clearly specified otherwise, as used herein the
words "a" and "an" and the like carry the meaning of "one or more."
Additionally, it is to be understood that terms such as "left,"
"right," "top," "bottom," "front," "rear," "side," "height,"
"length," "width," "upper," "lower," "interior," "exterior,"
"inner," "outer," and the like that may be used herein, merely
describe points of reference and do not necessarily limit
embodiments of the disclosed subject matter to any particular
orientation or configuration. Furthermore, terms such as "first,"
"second," "third," etc., merely identify one of a number of
portions, components, points of reference, operations and/or
functions as described herein, and likewise do not necessarily
limit embodiments of the disclosed subject matter to any particular
configuration or orientation.
[0042] Referring now to the drawings, wherein like reference
numerals designate identical or corresponding parts throughout the
several views.
[0043] FIGS. 1-3 depict exemplary solar power generation assemblies
100, 200, 300 including a casting support structure supporting one
or more canopies including a plurality of solar or photovoltaic
modules configured for solar power generation. In general, the
casting support structure elegantly and seamlessly integrates
precipitation management, electrical cable management, lighting,
and electric vehicle charging features with the solar power
generation assembly.
[0044] More specifically, FIG. 1 depicts an exemplary solar power
generation assembly 100 according to one or more aspects of the
disclosed subject matter. In one implementation, the solar power
generation assembly 100 is a dual-tilt carport. However, the solar
power generation assembly 100 can be a service station, a canopy
for shade or otherwise, a garage or any other functional and/or
aesthetic structure, for example.
[0045] In one implementation, the dual-tilt carport has an
asymmetric canopy, wherein a first portion 150 of the canopy is
longer than a second portion 155 of the canopy. Additionally, the
first portion 150 of the canopy can be tilted at a first
predetermined tilt angle and the second portion 155 of the canopy
can be titled at a second predetermined tilt angle. Generally, the
one or more predetermined tilt angles of the solar power generation
assemblies 100, 200, 300 are based on geographical location, which
includes considering what predetermined tilt angles are optimal for
solar power generation in that geographical location.
Alternatively, or additionally, the predetermined tilt angles are
based on the orientation of the solar power generation assembly,
which includes considering how many degrees off azimuth the solar
power generation assembly is oriented.
[0046] The casting 130 is attached to the column 105. In one
implementation, the casting may be in the form of a Y-casting.
However, other shapes and/or form factors for casting are possible.
A first brace 110, a second brace 115, a third brace 120, and a
fourth brace 125 connect the casting 130 to the crossbeam 135. As a
result, the column 105, casting 130, and first brace 110, second
brace 115, third brace 120, and fourth brace 125 provide a support
structure. In one implementation, the support structure is a "Y"
support structure, but other shapes and/or form factors are
possible. Further, the crossbeam 135 supports a plurality of
purlins 140, and the purlins 140 support a plurality of solar or
photovoltaic modules 145. In one implementation, each purlin
supports a row of photovoltaic modules 145. The first, second,
third, and fourth brace 110, 115, 120, 125 can be manufactured at
different lengths based on the predetermined tilt angle.
[0047] Additionally, in one implementation, the solar power
generation assembly 100 includes a plurality of columns 105. The
distance between each column 105 can be based on geographic
location and corresponding expected weather in that geographic
location. For example, because snow can be reasonably expected each
winter in the northeastern portion of the United States, for
example, the columns 105 can be placed closer together to more
robustly support the weight of any snowfall. On the other hand,
because snow is less likely in the western portion of the United
States (e.g., California), the columns 105 can be placed farther
apart. Table 1 includes an exemplary number of columns 105 and
column spacing for expected snowfall in certain geographical
regions.
TABLE-US-00001 TABLE 1 East Coast, 40 pounds per square foot (psf)
of snow West Coast East Coast, 50 psf Modules Total Length Col
Space Col Space Col Space Series "Up" (ft) #Column (ft) #Column
(ft) #Column (ft) E-83 kW 6 138.9 5 29.5 4 37.5 7 20.7 E-66 kW 6
104.2 4 28.1 3 38.5 5 22.1 E-43 kW 6 69.5 3 25.7 2 40.7 4 18.7 X-83
kW 6 125.0 5 26.6 4 33.7 7 18.6 X-66 kW 6 93.8 4 25.3 3 34.6 5 19.9
X-43 kW 6 62.5 3 23.1 2 36.6 4 16.9
[0048] FIG. 2 depicts an exemplary solar power generation assembly
200 according to one or more aspects of the disclosed subject
matter. In one implementation, the solar power generation assembly
200 is a dual-tilt carport, wherein the dual-tilt carport has a
symmetric canopy where a first portion of the canopy (e.g., first
canopy 260) is the same length as a second portion of the canopy
(e.g., second canopy 265). Solar power generation assembly 200
includes components that can also be used in solar power generation
assembly 100. For example, the solar power generation assembly
includes casting 230, column 205, first brace 210, second brace
215, third brace 220, fourth brace 225, and purlins 240. However,
the solar power generation assembly 200 includes a first canopy 260
and a second canopy 265. The first canopy 260 includes a first
crossbeam 235 and a first set of photovoltaic modules 245 belonging
to the first canopy 260. The second canopy 265 includes a second
crossbeam 250 and a second set of photovoltaic modules 255
belonging to the second canopy 265. The first crossbeam 235 and the
second crossbeam 250 do not directly connect. Additionally, the
first set of photovoltaic modules 245 and the second set of
photovoltaic modules 255 do not directly connect. As a result, the
first brace 210 and the second brace 215 support the first canopy
260, and the first brace 210 and the second brace 215 are each
manufactured to a predetermined length based on the predetermined
tilt angle of the first canopy 260. Additionally, the third brace
220 and the fourth brace 225 support the second canopy 265, and the
third brace 220 and the fourth brace 240 are each manufactured to a
predetermined length based on the predetermined tilt angle of the
second canopy 265.
[0049] FIG. 3 depicts an exemplary solar power generation assembly
300 according to one or more aspects of the disclosed subject
matter. The solar power generation assembly 300 also shares similar
components as the solar power generation assemblies 100, 200 (e.g.,
casting and column). In one implementation, the solar power
generation assembly 300 is a single-tilt carport. The solar power
generation assembly 300 includes a casting 330 attached to a column
305. A first brace 310, a second brace 315, a third brace 320, and
a fourth brace 325 connect the casting 330 to a crossbeam 335. The
crossbeam 335 supports a plurality of purlins 340, and the purlins
340 support a plurality of photovoltaic modules 345. For example,
each purlin 340 supports a row of photovoltaic modules 345. The
first brace 310, the second brace 315, the third brace 320, and the
fourth brace 325 are manufactured at different lengths based on the
predetermined tilt angle of the single-tilt carport.
[0050] It should be appreciated that the casting support
configuration allows for common structural members for each of the
solar power generation assemblies 100, 200, 300 including the
columns 105, 205, 305; the braces 110, 115, 120, 125, 210, 215,
220, 225, 310, 315, 320, 325; and the crossbeams 135, 235, 335.
However, the crossbeams may be manufactured for different
predetermined tilt angles and the braces may be manufactured at
different lengths to accommodate for the different predetermined
tilt angles. For example, the first brace 110 and the second brace
115 in FIG. 1 will be longer when the first portion 150 of the
canopy is at a 15 degree tilt angle compared to a 10 degree tilt
angle. However, the first brace 110 and the second brace 115 in
FIG. 1 for a 10 degree tilt angle can be the same lengths as the
first brace 210 and the second brace 215 in FIG. 2 for a 10 degree
tilt angle even though the braces are for different solar power
generation assemblies, which provides a significant cost savings in
manufacturing.
[0051] In one implementation, the tilt angle is measured relative
to an axis that is perpendicular to a lengthwise axis of the column
105, 205, 305. In other words, if the column 105, 205, 305 is
vertical, a horizontal axis perpendicular to the vertical column is
the reference (i.e., 0 degree tilt angle) for measuring the tilt
angle of the one or more canopies or one or more portions of
canopies of the solar power generation assembly.
[0052] Although the canopy is described as a solar canopy, the
disclosure is not limited to solar canopies and the inventive
aspects described herein can be used with any canopy, awning or
roof structure.
[0053] FIG. 4A depicts an exemplary single-tilt carport 405 at a
predetermined tilt angle according to one or more aspects of the
disclosed subject matter. In one implementation, the predetermined
tilt angle of the single-tilt carport 405 is 10 degrees. However,
the predetermined tilt angle of the single-tilt carport 405 can be
1 degree to 20 degrees. Thus, the exact tilt angle is not limiting
on the present disclosure.
[0054] FIG. 4B depicts an exemplary single-tilt carport 410 at a
predetermined tilt angle according to one or more aspects of the
disclosed subject matter. In one implementation, the predetermined
tilt angle of the single-tilt carport 410 is 15 degrees. However,
the predetermined tilt angle of the single-tilt carport 410 can be
1 degree to 20 degrees. Thus, these tilt angles are merely
exemplary, and other tilt angles are possible without departing
from the present disclosure.
[0055] FIG. 5A depicts an exemplary dual-tilt carport 505 in a
first predetermined tilt angle configuration according to one or
more aspects of the disclosed subject matter. In one
implementation, the first predetermined tilt angle configuration
includes a first portion 520 of the canopy having a tilt angle of 2
degrees and a second portion 525 of the canopy having a tilt angle
of 4 degrees.
[0056] FIG. 5B depicts an exemplary dual-tilt carport 510 in a
second predetermined tilt angle configuration according to one or
more aspects of the disclosed subject matter. In one
implementation, the second predetermined tilt angle configuration
includes a first portion 530 of the canopy having a tilt angle of
10 degrees and a second portion 535 of the canopy having a tilt
angle of 4 degrees.
[0057] FIG. 5C depicts an exemplary dual-tilt carport 515 in a
third predetermined tilt angle configuration according to one or
more aspects of the disclosed subject matter. In one
implementation, the third predetermined tilt angle configuration
includes a first portion 540 of the canopy having a tilt angle of
15 degrees and a second portion 545 of the canopy having a tilt
angle of 4 degrees.
[0058] Referring to FIGS. 4A, 4B, and 5A-5C, it should be
appreciated that portions of the solar power generation assemblies
can use the same components for multiple solar power generation
assemblies. For example, the casting may be the same component for
each of the solar power generation assemblies. More specifically,
the first and second brace can be used for both solar power
generation assembly 405 and solar power generation assembly 510
because the tilt angle of the solar power generation assembly 405
and the tilt angle of the first portion of the solar power
generation assembly 510 are the same. As a result, manufacturing
costs can be reduced significantly.
[0059] FIG. 6 depicts an exemplary precipitation flow 605 for solar
power generation assembly 600 according to one or more aspects of
the disclosed subject matter. In one implementation, solar power
generation assembly 600 can have an asymmetrical canopy like solar
power generation assembly 100. However, it should be appreciated
that the precipitation flow 605 has generally the same flow for
each solar power generation assembly 100, 200, and 300
configuration in that the precipitation flow is eventually directed
to one or more braces (e.g., the second brace and/or fourth brace)
and through the casting (e.g., casting 130, 230, 330). More
specifically, precipitation can initially collect in a gutter
system between rows of photovoltaic modules which drain to each
crossbeam. Each crossbeam directs precipitation toward a
corresponding brace (e.g., the second brace 115, 215, 315 and/or
the fourth brace 125, 225, 325). Then the one or more braces direct
precipitation to the casting where a gutter can be disposed within
or adjacent to the column where the precipitation flow 605
terminates.
[0060] In one implementation, the casting and corresponding braces
are configured such that at least one of the precipitation
management braces (e.g., second brace 115) is positioned to connect
to the crossbeam of the canopy at a lowest point of the canopy to
assist in removal of precipitation from the canopy.
[0061] Additionally, FIG. 6 depicts a zoomed in view of a gutter
610 disposed within a crossbeam 615, wherein the gutter 610 is
configured to direct the precipitation flow 605 to the water
management brace (e.g., the second brace 115, 215, 315 and/or the
fourth brace 125, 225, 325).
[0062] FIG. 7A depicts an exemplary external portion 705 for
precipitation management according to one or more aspects of the
disclosed subject matter. In one implementation, a brace 710
includes an external portion 705 of a precipitation management
system for the power generation assembly, wherein the external
portion 705 is a gutter attached to the brace 710. More
specifically, the external portion is disposed outside of the brace
710.
[0063] FIG. 7B depicts an exemplary internal portion 720 for
precipitation management according to one or more aspects of the
disclosed subject matter. In one implementation, the internal
portion 720 is disposed inside the brace 710.
[0064] Referring to FIGS. 7A and 7B, both the external portion 715
and the internal portion 720 are portions of the precipitation flow
605 in FIG. 6 configured to assist in removing precipitation from
the one more canopies. Additionally, it should be appreciated that
brace 710 can correspond to the fourth brace 125, 225, 325.
Additionally, the second brace 115, 215, 315 can also be similarly
configured to assist in removing precipitation from the one or more
canopies.
[0065] FIG. 8 depicts an exemplary integrated charging station 815
according to one or more aspects of the disclosed subject matter.
In one implementation, the charging station 815 is integrated into
a column 820, wherein the column 820 is configured to support a
portion of a solar power generation assembly. The column 820 can be
part of a Y-structural support configuration that includes a
casting (e.g., casting 130, 230, 330) and a plurality of braces
configured to support electrical cable and precipitation
management. In one implementation, one or more of braces 805 and
810 are configured for electrical cable management. For example,
electrical cables can be disposed in one or more of the braces 805
and 810 such that the electrical cables can run from the
photovoltaic modules in a canopy of the solar power generation
assembly to the charging station 815. More specifically, the
electrical cables can run from the photovoltaic modules, through
one or more of the braces 805 and 810, through the casting, and
through the column to the charging station 815. It should be
appreciated that the charging station 815 can represent one or more
charging stations integrated into the column 820. Additionally,
brace 805 can correspond to the first brace 110, 210, 310, and the
brace 810 can correspond to the third brace 120, 220, 320.
[0066] FIG. 9 depicts exemplary integrated lighting 905 according
to one or more aspects of the disclosed subject matter. In one
implementation, the lighting 905 is integrated into one or more
purlins in a solar power generation assembly (e.g., solar power
generation assembly 100, 200, 300). The lighting 905 can be LED
lights recessed into one or more of the purlins. Additionally, the
electricity required to operate the lighting 905 can be provided by
the photovoltaic modules.
[0067] FIG. 10 depicts exemplary purlin connection according to one
or more aspects of the disclosed subject matter. In one
implementation, assembling a solar power generation assembly
includes installing rows of photovoltaic modules, wherein each row
of photovoltaic modules is connected to one or more purlins. For
example, a first row of photovoltaic modules 1005 can be connected
to a first purlin 1015 and a second row of photovoltaic modules
1010 can be connected to a second purlin 1020. The second row of
photovoltaic modules 1010 and corresponding second purlin 1020 can
be connected to the first row of photovoltaic modules 1005 and
corresponding first purlin 1015 as indicated by purlin connection
arrow 1025. In one implementation, the first purlin 1015 and second
purlin 1020 can be connected via a purlin coupler (e.g., see FIG.
16, purlin coupler 1605).
[0068] In one implementation, the first row of photovoltaic modules
1005 and corresponding purlin 1015 can span two crossbeams 1030,
and subsequent rows of photovoltaic modules and corresponding
purlins (e.g., the second row of photovoltaic modules 1010 and
second purlin 1020) span one or more crossbeams 1030. As a result,
the one or more rows of photovoltaic modules, corresponding
purlins, and crossbeams form one or more canopies of a solar power
generation assembly. Alternatively, or additionally, the one or
more purlins and photovoltaic modules 1005 can be pre-assembled and
lifted as an assembly, as one of ordinary skill would
recognize.
[0069] FIG. 11A depicts an exemplary casting 1105 according to one
or more aspects of the disclosed subject matter. In one
implementation, the casting 1105 is a one piece casting. The
casting 1105 can include a first receiving portion 1125 and a
second receiving portion 1140 for the braces on each side of the
support structure. In one implementation, the receiving portions
1125, 1140 is square to receive square braces. However, other
shapes and/or form factors are possible.
[0070] Additionally, the casting 1105 can be manufactured such that
each receiving portion 1125 is at a predetermined angle regardless
of the type of solar power generation assembly 100, 200, or 300. As
a result, the same casting 1105 can be used for each type of solar
power generation assembly 100, 200, 300, and for any tilt angle of
any canopy or portion of the canopy. Instead of adjusting the
angles of the receiving portions 1125 of the casting 1105, the
lengths of the braces are adjusted to accommodate corresponding
tilt angles. Because the same casting 1105 can be used for each
type of solar power generation assembly 100, 200, 300,
manufacturing costs can be significantly reduced and installation
efficiency can be improved, for example.
[0071] In one implementation, the receiving portion 1125 includes a
first hole 1130 and the receiving portion 1140 includes a second
hole 1135. The hole 1130 and the hole 1135 can be mirrored on the
opposite side of the casting 1105. The first hole 1130 can be
configured for electrical cable management such that electrical
cables running through the brace that connects to the corresponding
receiving portion 1125 enter the casting 1105 through hole 1130.
The second hole 1135 can be configured for precipitation management
such that precipitation running through the brace connected to the
corresponding receiving portion 1140 runs through hole 1135. The
second hole 1135 can having a larger diameter than hole 1130 to
accommodate for the precipitation. It should be appreciated that
the first receiving portion 1125, the first hole 1130, the second
receiving portion 1140, and the second hole 1135 are mirrored on an
opposite side of the casting 1105 to provide the same brace
connection features, as well as the option for the same electrical
cable and precipitation management features.
[0072] FIG. 11B depicts an exemplary casting 1110 according to one
or more aspects of the disclosed subject matter. In one
implementation, the casting 1110 is a two piece casting including a
first casting piece 1115 and a second casting piece 1120. It should
be appreciated that the receiving portions, as well as the
electrical cable and precipitation management features described in
FIG. 11A also apply to the casting 1110 depicted in FIG. 11B. Any
desirable number of pieces or components can be assembled to form a
casting.
[0073] FIG. 12A depicts an exemplary placement for an electrical
component or accessory (e.g. inverter) 1215 according to one or
more aspects of the disclosed subject matter. In one
implementation, the inverter 1215 spans between a first purlin 1205
and a second purlin 1210.
[0074] FIG. 12B depicts an exemplary placement for the inverter
1215 according to one or more aspects of the disclosed subject
matter. In one implementation, the inverter 1215 is positioned at
an end of a crossbeam 1220. Additionally, it should be appreciated
that the distance measurements indicated in FIG. 12B are exemplary
and can change based on column height, tilt angle, and the
like.
[0075] In one implementation, the inverter 1215 is configured to
invert direct current from the photovoltaic modules to alternate
current for the one or more integrated charging station 815, for
example. Additionally, it should be appreciated that different
numbers and/or sizes of inverters can be used based on the size of
the solar power generation assembly.
[0076] FIG. 13A depicts an exemplary column-to-brace weldment 1305
according to one or more aspects of the disclosed subject matter.
In one implementation, the braces on each side of a column are
welded to a portion of the column-to-brace weldment 1305 that is
then attached to the column. The column-to-brace weldment 1305 can
reduce a number of parts (e.g., fasteners) required to secure the
braces to the column.
[0077] FIG. 13B depicts an exemplary column-to-brace casting 1310
according to one or more aspects of the disclosed subject matter.
In one implementation, the braces on each side of a column are
attached to a casting via fasters in the column-to-brace casting
1310 configuration. The column-to-brace casting 1310 reduces
fabrication cost because there is no welding, there is optimization
of material for casting, it maximizes shipping volume, and the
like. Additionally, more bolting points allows for tolerance
adjustments.
[0078] Regarding FIG. 13A and FIG. 13B, it should be appreciated
that all aspects of precipitation and electrical cable management
apply to both the column-to-brace weldment 1305 and the
column-to-brace casting 1310. Unless specifically stated, any
reference herein referring to "casting" or "casting structure" may
be or include the column-to-brace weldment 1305 or the
column-to-brace casting 1310.
[0079] FIG. 14A depicts a perspective view of a crossbeam 1410
according to one or more aspects of the disclosed subject matter.
Additionally, arrow 1405 depicts a lengthwise end view of the
crossbeam as shown in FIG. 14B.
[0080] FIG. 14B depicts a lengthwise end view of the crossbeam 1410
along from the perspective of the arrow 1405 in FIG. 14A according
to one or more aspects of the disclosed subject matter. The
lengthwise end view of the crossbeam 1410 depicts space available
for electrical cable and precipitation management.
[0081] FIG. 15A depicts an exemplary connection of a crossbeam 1505
connected to a purlin 1510 according to one or more aspects of the
disclosed subject matter. In one implementation, the crossbeam 1505
is connected to the purlin 1510 via a connection apparatus
1515.
[0082] FIG. 15B depicts the connection apparatus 1515 configured to
attach the crossbeam 1505 to the purlin 1510 according to one or
more aspects of the disclosed subject matter. In one
implementation, the connection apparatus 1515 is configured to
connect the crossbeam 1505 to the purlin 1510 while leaving the
crossbeam 1505 open for electrical cable and precipitation
management.
[0083] FIG. 16A depicts an exemplary row of photovoltaic modules
including a purlin coupler 1605 and an end cap 1630 according to
one or more aspects of the disclosed subject matter. In one
implementation, the purlin coupler 1605 connects two purlins
together. Additionally, the purlin end cap 1630 is a cap secured to
an end of the purlin. In one implementation, the purlin end cap
1630 is an aesthetic component to improve the aesthetic look of the
end of the purlin. Additionally, the purlin end cap 1650 can
prevent precipitation from flowing out the end of the purlin,
thereby further assisting the precipitation flow (e.g.,
precipitation flow 1605) toward the braces of the support structure
to assist in removing precipitation from the one or more canopies
of the solar power generation assembly. Further, the purlin end cap
1630 is a structural component that joins each side of the purlin
together, thus increasing the strength of the purlin.
[0084] FIG. 16B depicts the purlin coupler 1605 according to one or
more aspects of the disclosed subject matter. In one
implementation, the purlin coupler 1605 includes a forged washer
block 1610 which can be secured to the purlin coupler 1605 by
hardware 1625 and nut 1620 to increasing bearing area.
Additionally, the purlin coupler 1605 can include one or more rivet
holes 1615.
[0085] FIG. 16C depicts the purlin end cap 1630 according to one or
more aspects of the disclosed subject matter. The purlin end cap
1630 can be secured to the purlin via hardware (e.g., hardware 1625
and nut 1620).
[0086] FIG. 16D depicts an end view of the purlin coupler 1605
according to one or more aspects of the disclosed subject matter.
Additionally, the end view of the purlin coupler 1605 depicts how
the forged washer block is secured to the purlin coupler 1605 via
the hardware 1625 and nut 1620.
[0087] FIG. 16E depicts a perspective view of the forged washer
block 1610 according to one or more aspects of the disclosed
subject matter.
[0088] Having now described embodiments of the disclosed subject
matter, it should be apparent to those skilled in the art that the
foregoing is merely illustrative and not limiting, having been
presented by way of example only. Thus, although particular
configurations have been discussed herein, other configurations can
also be employed. Numerous modifications and other embodiments
(e.g., combinations, rearrangements, etc.) are enabled by the
present disclosure and are within the scope of one of ordinary
skill in the art and are contemplated as falling within the scope
of the disclosed subject matter and any equivalents thereto.
Features of the disclosed embodiments can be combined, rearranged,
omitted, etc., within the scope of the invention to produce
additional embodiments. Furthermore, certain features may sometimes
be used to advantage without a corresponding use of other features.
Accordingly, Applicant(s) intend(s) to embrace all such
alternatives, modifications, equivalents, and variations that are
within the spirit and scope of the disclosed subject matter.
* * * * *