Dual Solar Panel Multi-Position Mounting System

[jkarrasch]

Hello Everyone,

I have a question that I would like to have your input on.

Overview: I am in the process of patenting a solar panel mounting system that would allow for two panels to be mounted in approx. the same roof area as one panel (one over the top of the other). The mounting design would fit any width of solar panel frame. The system would allow the upper panel to slide out- allowing both panels full sun exposure.  This system would then allow for both exposed panels to be tilted in two directions to provide maximum solar exposure.  The upper panels could be removed and placed on the ground in shady areas (thus removing the need to store portable panels inside the vehicle). The goal is double the amount the amount solar power available from the same roof square footage.  Ideally making off -grid AC more attainable for smaller living quarters.

Do you think that something like this would be useful/needed?  

I have activated the Poll Option with "yes" for useful   "no" for not useful.

Thank you for your time and comments.

John D. Karrasch

 

[Canine]

I wouldn't want to take the panels down, so that is a feature I wouldn't use. Adding that feature would be an added cost. Do you know if that would be a feature that enough people would want to justify the extra cost?

The two-way tilting would be a feature I would like a lot if it had easy deployment and didn't rattle in the wind. It's easy to drop a washer or nut and lose it in the grass, so if the fastening system was part of the mounting system, that would be awesome. I would rather spend money on tilting than add another panel, but then again I understand the gains of solar when tilted especially in the winter or on overcast days.

There's a few people using portable panels that would like to open space in their rigs by having their panels "stored" on the top of their rigs. It would have to be an easy mount/dismount procedure. A lot of people don't have the strength to comfortably lift even a 36 cell panel onto the top of their van while on a ladder.

Finally, having a panel that could pull out to double the amount of solar would be great. I had to keep my roof completely free of fans and everything to be able to install the amount of solar I wanted. Standard RVs or camper trailers have vents and such that greatly limit solar panel size/placement. Since most people buy commercially, it would seem to me that would be fairly highly desirable feature.

That's awesome you are asking here. I for one like to do the best I can with my stuff. Having another option would make solar that much better.

 

[DLTooley]

There is definitely a value market for flexible durable mounting system. How much demand and what the price point should be is more complicated.

I am currently designing a simpler mount, set at a specific height so I can still use my racks when needed.

 

[Wabbit]

Hard to answer the poll for me, I don't know how much "worth while" costs. Is there a need for affordable solar mounting systems? I think yes. I would love to see an affordable and compact mounting system for portable solar. Was thinking of coming up with something, but then remembered I gave up motivation for my New Years resolution back in '96 and it's the only New Years resolution I have had any success with, so...

I had some success with a heavy duty camera tripod and supporting a 20+lb 100w panel. Had to be modified and strengthened in some areas, but it was promising. But if the price is right, definitely interested in different mounting systems.

 

[Headache]

I voted yes because more solar means more stuff I can use for longer. I wouldn't remove panels to put on the ground.

The only issue that came up immediate for me is the size and watts of panels you are experimenting with. I'm looking at at least 300 watt solar panels.

 

[sushidog]

Is the sliding system similar to this, with solenoids that push and retract the panels?



Or do you manually pull and push them?



Chip

 

[tx2sturgis]

You can't patent something that's obvious. Like a sliding panel, or a folding mount, or a rectangular smartphone, or a box-shaped cargo van, or a football, for instance. 

You CAN patent sub-assemblies that are somehow unique, made a certain way, or of course, you can trademark and copyright certain names and marketing phrases.

I like what the guy did with pneumatic cylinders...that's thinking outside the box!

 

[highdesertranger]

I like that pneumatic set up to. the only thing that concerns me is the way it slams open and closed, it's going to be hard on the slides. also I can see problems with partial shading. keep that in mind John. highdesertranger

 

[VJG1977]

Something like this?