Pivot-fit connection apparatus, system, and method for photovoltaic modules

Abstract

A system and method are disclosed for quickly and easily assembling PV modules into a PV array in a sturdy and durable manner. In examples of the present technology, the system includes various couplings having a first engaging portion adapted to engage a first PV module and a second engaging portion adapted to engage a second PV module. At least one of the engaging portions allows variable positioning of the engaged PV module along the engaging portion.

What is claimed: 
     
         1 . An array of photovoltaic modules, comprising:
 (a) a first photovoltaic module;   (b) a second photovoltaic module; and   (c) a coupling connecting the first photovoltaic module to the second photovoltaic module, wherein the coupling comprises:
 (i) a body portion located at least partially in a gap between said first and second photovoltaic modules; 
 (ii) a first engaging portion extending from the body portion, the first engaging portion engaged with said first photovoltaic module; and 
 (iii) a second engaging portion extending from the body portion, and wherein 
   the second photovoltaic module is dimensioned to be slidably positionable along a surface of the second engaging portion when the first and second photovoltaic modules are disposed at an angle to one another, and wherein the second photovoltaic module is locked in position on the surface of the second engaging portion when the first and second photovoltaic modules are disposed parallel to one another.   
     
     
         2 . The array of photovoltaic modules of  claim 1 , wherein said coupling enables an electrical grounding bond between said first and second photovoltaic modules. 
     
     
         3 . The array of photovoltaic modules of  claim 1 , wherein the first engaging portion is a key portion that rotates to lock into a groove in the first photovoltaic module, and wherein the second engaging portion is a tongue portion that slides into a groove in the second photovoltaic module. 
     
     
         4 . The array of photovoltaic modules of  claim 3 , wherein the groove in the second photovoltaic module is angled with respect to a top surface of the second photovoltaic module. 
     
     
         5 . The array of photovoltaic modules of  claim 4 , wherein the angled groove is disposed at an angle of greater than 2 degrees to the top surface of the second photovoltaic module. 
     
     
         6 . The array of  claim 5 , wherein said angle is greater than or equal to 5 degrees. 
     
     
         7 . The array of  claim 5 , wherein said angle is greater than or equal to 10 degrees. 
     
     
         8 . The array of  claim 5 , wherein said angle is greater than or equal to 20 degrees. 
     
     
         9 . The array of photovoltaic modules of  claim 4 , wherein the tongue portion pivots about an axis parallel to a side of the second photovoltaic module to pivot fit the coupling into the second photovoltaic module. 
     
     
         10 . The array of photovoltaic modules of  claim 4 , wherein pivotally engaging said coupling with said tongue portion deforms said angled groove. 
     
     
         11 . The array of photovoltaic modules of  claim 1 , wherein the coupling passes through an opening in an interlock plate positioned between the first and second photovoltaic modules. 
     
     
         12 . The array of photovoltaic modules of  claim 11 , wherein the interlock plate further comprises a bottom support lip extending along the bottom of the interlock plate. 
     
     
         13 . The array of photovoltaic modules of  claim 11 , wherein the interlock plate further comprises at least one support rib extending from a side of the interlock plate.