Panel support structure

Abstract

A plurality of support structures that may be secured to a surface and may support panels, such as solar modules. The support structures may include a first side that forms a channel and a second side that forms a support flange. A first edge of a panel may be placed within the channel and a second opposing edge of the panel may be secured to the support flange.

What is claimed is: 
     
         1 . A support device comprising:
 a first support structure having a first base and a first side, wherein the first side comprises a top end and a bottom end, wherein the first side is connected to the base at the bottom end and extends vertically relative to the first base, wherein the top end comprises a channel formed in between a first portion formed by a first bend in a first direction, a second portion formed by a second bend in the first direction, and a third portion formed by a third bend in a second direction, opposite that of the first direction; and   a second support structure having a second base and a second side, wherein the second side comprises a top end and a bottom end, wherein the second side is connected to the base at the bottom end and extends vertically relative to the second base, wherein the top end forms a support flange.   
     
     
         2 . The support device of  claim 1 , wherein the first support structure and the second support structure are mounted on a surface, and wherein the channel is facing the second support structure. 
     
     
         3 . The support device of  claim 2 , further comprising a panel having a first edge and a second edge, wherein the first edge is within the channel and the second edge is mounted on the support flange. 
     
     
         4 . The support device of  claim 3 , further comprising a clamp securing the second edge to the support flange. 
     
     
         5 . The support device of  claim 2 , further comprising a row spacer having a first end and a second end, wherein the first end is mounted to the channel and the second end is mounted to the support flange. 
     
     
         6 . The support device of  claim 1 , wherein the support flange forms a second channel. 
     
     
         7 . The support device of  claim 2 , further comprising a supplemental ballast pan oriented in between the first support structure and the second support structure. 
     
     
         8 . The support device of  claim 2 , wherein the support flange comprises a bend and that protrudes towards the first support structure. 
     
     
         9 . The device of  claim 3 , wherein the panel is a solar module.