East-West Photovoltaic Array With Spaced Apart Photovoltaic Modules For Improved Aerodynamic Efficiency

摘要

A solar array with successive rows of photovoltaic modules angled in opposing directions forming peaks and valleys between the rows with the valleys (i.e.: lower sides of the photovoltaic module rows) being mounted close together and the peaks (i.e.: upper sides of the photovoltaic module rows) being mounted far apart to improve system aerodynamics and permit ease of access for installers. Included is a system for connecting the upper sides of the photovoltaic modules to connectors that slide on bars extending between upper and lower mounting bases and for pivot locking the lower sides of the photovoltaic modules to the lower mounting bases.

主权项

1. A photovoltaic array, comprising:
(a) a plurality of photovoltaic modules; and (b) mounting hardware supporting the plurality of photovoltaic modules such that the photovoltaic modules are positioned in an array with successive rows of the photovoltaic modules being angled in opposing directions, wherein:
(i) upper side edges of adjacent photovoltaic modules are spaced apart a distance of between 18% to 50% of the width of a photovoltaic module; and(ii) lower side edges of adjacent photovoltaic modules are spaced apart a distance of less than 20% of the width of a photovoltaic module; and wherein the mounting hardware comprises:
a plurality of upper mounting bases;a plurality of lower mounting bases with module supports thereon, the module supports holding lower side edges of the photovoltaic modules;bars connecting the lower mounting bases to the upper mounting bases; andsliding supports, each having an aperture configured to receive a bar, positioned on the bars, the sliding supports holding upper side edges of the photovoltaic modules, wherein the sliding supports are configured to slide along the length of the bars.