Abstract:
A solar energy collection system can include improved mounting hardware for reducing hardware costs and labor required for assembly. For example, mounting hardware can include surfaces for supporting part or all of the weight of a solar module as it is brought into contact with mounting hardware and then moved into a final engaged position. In some systems, a torque tube can include saddle mount assemblies that allow a solar module to be partially engaged and a registered with the saddle mount while being pivoted into a final locked engagement. Some systems can include arrangements sufficient to support the full weight of a solar module in a disengaged position, and as it is moved into a final engaged position. Some systems can include a configuration of apertures and interference or snap-fit features for providing tool-less connections, thereby simplifying the assembly process.

Description:
TECHNICAL FIELD  
       [0001]    The present disclosure generally relates to components for solar power systems, and more specifically, components for connecting and mounting solar power components such as for sun tracking systems. 
       BACKGROUND 
       [0002]    Some known sun-tracking photovoltaic solar power systems, such as utility-scale, photovoltaic installations, are designed to pivot a large number of solar modules so as to track the movement of the sun using the fewest possible number of drive motors. For example, some known systems include parallel rows of photovoltaic modules supported on torque tubes. The torque tubes can comprise a number of long, round shafts connected together in an end to end fashion, typically fabricated out of metal. 
         [0003]    As such, the torque tubes and some of the associated hardware can present a substantial cost of a sun tracking solar power system. Thus, reducing the material, manufacturing costs and/or labor required for assembly of such components can present significant reductions in the cost of financing the initial construction of such a system. Reducing the construction cost of such systems can significantly impact the ability to attain financing for such systems, the servicing of which is sufficiently low to allow such a system to sell electricity, for example, to a regional grid power distribution system, at a rate that is sufficiently high to cover the debt servicing for such initial construction. 
       BRIEF SUMMARY 
       [0004]    An aspect disclosed herein includes the realization that conventional hardware for mounting solar modules to sun tracking systems can be modified to provide simplified and faster procedures for making the appropriate connections, thereby reducing the labor costs associated with such mounting procedures. For example, some embodiments disclosed herein include the realization that hardware can be provided for connecting solar modules to torque tubes with tool-less connections, such as snap fit or other interference type connection mechanisms. 
         [0005]    For example, in some embodiments, a solar energy collection system can include first and second solar modules, each comprising a solar collection member including an upper surface configured to receive sunlight for conversion into electrical energy and a lower surface opposite the upper surface, each of the first and second modules also comprising a support frame connected to the lower surface of the solar collection member. A torque member having a longitudinal axis supported above the ground so as to be pivotable through a range of pivot motion can also be included. A plurality of solar module retention members can be fixed to the torque member and comprise a tool-less connection, the tool-less connection having sufficient strength to remain engaged with the support frames of the first and second modules as the torque member is tilted through its sun tracking range of motion. 
         [0006]    In some embodiments, a solar energy collection system can comprise first and second solar modules each comprising a solar collection member including an upper surface configured to receive sunlight for conversion into electrical energy and a lower surface opposite the upper surface. The first solar module can also comprise a supporting frame supporting the solar collection module. The first solar module can have a length extending along a longitudinal direction of the solar collection member. The frame can comprise a first side portion connected to the lower surface of the solar collection member on a first side and approximately parallel to the longitudinal axis of the solar collection member and including a first lateral surface extending approximately perpendicular to the upper surface and a first aperture disposed in the first lateral surface. A second side portion of the frame can be connected to the lower surface of the solar collection member and extending along a second side of the longitudinal axis of the solar collection member opposite the first side. A torque member can be supported above the ground surface so as to pivot about a first pivot axis which extends generally along a longitudinal direction of the torque member. A first solar module retention member can be fixed to the torque member at a first location. The first solar module retention member can include a first projection extending approximately parallel to the first pivot axis and into the first aperture. A second solar module retention member can be fixed to the torque member at a second location spaced from the first location by a distance approximately equal to a distance between the first and second side portions of the frame. The second solar module retention member can include a tool-less fastener engaged with the second side portion. The first projection and the first aperture can be sized so as to allow the first solar module to be pivoted about the first aperture through a range of pivotal motion of at least about ten degrees between a first tilted position in which the first projection is engaged with the first aperture and the second side portion is completely disengaged from the tool-less fastener in a second position in which the first projection is engaged with the first aperture and the second side portion is engaged with the tool-less fastener. 
         [0007]    In some embodiments a solar energy collection system can comprise a first solar module comprising a solar collection member including an upper surface configured to receive sunlight for conversion into electrical energy and a lower surface opposite the upper surface. The first solar module can also comprise a support frame supporting the solar collection module, the first solar module having a length extending along a longitudinal axis of the solar collection member. The frame can comprise a first side portion connected to the lower surface of the solar collection member on a first side of the longitudinal axis. A second side portion of the frame can be connected to the lower surface of the solar collection member and extending along a second side of the longitudinal axis opposite the first side. A torque member can be supported above the ground surface so as to pivot about a first pivot axis which extends generally along a longitudinal direction of the torque member. A first solar module retention member can be fixed to the torque member at a first location. The first solar module retention member can include first and second flat portions disposed on opposite sides of the pivot axis. A second solar module retention member can be fixed to the torque member at a second location spaced from the first location by a distance approximately equal to a distance between the first and second side portions. The second solar module retention member comprising third and fourth can comprise third and fourth flat portions disposed on opposite sides of the pivot axis. 
         [0008]    At least a first connector portion disposed adjacent to the first flat portion can be included, wherein the first, second, third, and fourth flat portions are arranged so as to stably support the first solar module with the first side portion resting on the first and second flat portions and the second side portion resting on the third and fourth flat portions. The first, second, third, and fourth flat portions being sized to stably support the first and second side portions with the first solar module in a first position in which this first side portion is completely disengaged from the first connector portion and to stably support the first and second side portions as the first solar module is pushed in a direction so as to cause the first and second side portions to slide across the first, second, third, and fourth flat portions into a second position in which the first side portion is engaged with the first connector portion. 
         [0009]    In some embodiments, a solar energy collection system can comprise at least a first solar module comprising a solar collection member including an upper surface configured to receive sunlight for conversion into electrical energy and a lower surface opposite the upper surface. The first solar module can also comprise a support frame supporting the solar collection module. A torque member can be supported above a ground surface so as to pivot about a first pivot axis which extends generally along a longitudinal direction of the torque member. A first solar retention member can be fixed to the torque member at a first location and contacting the support frame so as to support the first solar module. The first solar module retention member comprising a channel member having a substantially uniform channel cross section along a substantial portion of its length and extending along a generally W-shape and comprising first and second outer arm portions connected to a central curved portion, the central curved portion being fixed to the torque member. 
     
    
     
       BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS 
         [0010]    A more complete understanding of the subject matter may be derived by referring to the detailed description and claims when considered in conjunction with the following figures, wherein like reference numbers refer to similar elements throughout the figures. 
           [0011]      FIG. 1  is a schematic diagram of a prior art sun tracking photovoltaic system, with which the present embodiments can be used. 
           [0012]      FIG. 2  is a schematic diagram of an electrical system for the photovoltaic system of  FIG. 1 . 
           [0013]      FIG. 3  is a perspective view of the solar collection system of  FIG. 1 , illustrating a plurality of piles mounted to the ground and supporting a plurality of torque tubes with a sun-tracking drive in accordance with an embodiment; 
           [0014]      FIG. 4  is a perspective view of an embodiment of a solar module retention member arrangement; 
           [0015]      FIG. 5  is an enlarged perspective view of one end of another embodiment of the solar module retention member of  FIG. 4 ; 
           [0016]      FIG. 6  is a side elevational schematic view of a step of a method that can be used for mounting a solar module to the retention members of  FIGS. 4 and 5 ; 
           [0017]      FIG. 7  is a side elevational view of another step of a method that can be used to attach a solar module to the solar module retention members of  FIGS. 4 and 5 ; 
           [0018]      FIG. 8  is a perspective view of another embodiment of a solar member retention member; 
           [0019]      FIG. 9  is another perspective view of the solar module retention member of  FIG. 8  engaged with a frame member of a solar module; 
           [0020]      FIG. 10  is a perspective and partial sectional view of the solar module retention member of  FIG. 9 ; 
           [0021]      FIG. 11  is perspective view of a plurality of solar modules attached with a plurality of the solar module retention members of  FIG. 9 ; 
           [0022]      FIG. 12  is a perspective view of another embodiment of a solar module retention member; 
           [0023]      FIG. 13  is a perspective view of the solar module retention member of  FIG. 12  supporting a frame member of a solar module; 
           [0024]      FIG. 14  is a side elevational schematic view of two of the solar module retention members of  FIG. 12  supporting two frame members of a solar module in a first position; 
           [0025]      FIG. 15  is a side elevational schematic view of the arrangement of  FIG. 14  with the solar module slid toward the right so as engage the frame members of the solar module with the solar module retention member; 
           [0026]      FIG. 16  is a an enlarged perspective view of one end of the solar module retention member of  FIG. 12  and a partial sectional view of the frame member engaged therewith. 
       
    
    
     DETAILED DESCRIPTION 
       [0027]    The following detailed description is merely illustrative in nature and is not intended to limit the embodiments of the subject matter or the application and uses of such embodiments. As used herein, the word “exemplary” means “serving as an example, instance, or illustration.” Any implementation described herein as exemplary is not necessarily to be construed as preferred or advantageous over other implementations. Furthermore, there is no intention to be bound by any expressed or implied theory presented in the proceeding technical field, background, brief summary, or the following detailed description. 
         [0028]    Certain terminology may be used in the following description for the purpose of reference only, and thus are not intended to be limiting. For example, terms such as “upper”, “lower”, “above”, and “below” refer to directions in the drawings to which reference is made. Terms such as “front”, “back”, “rear”, “side”, “axial”, and “lateral” describe the orientation and/or location of portions of the component within a consistent but arbitrary frame of reference which is made clear by reference to the text and the associated drawings describing the component under discussion. Such terminology may include the words specifically mentioned above, derivatives thereof, and words of similar import. Similarly, the terms “first”, “second”, and other such numerical terms referring to structures do not imply a sequence or order unless clearly indicated by the context. 
         [0029]    “Coupled”—The following description refers to elements or nodes or features being “coupled” together. As used herein, unless expressly stated otherwise, “coupled” means that one element/node/feature is directly or indirectly joined to (or directly or indirectly communicates with) another element/node/feature, and not necessarily mechanically. 
         [0030]    “Tool-less connection”—The following description refers to devices or features being connected with “tool-less connections”. As used herein, unless expressly stated otherwise, “tool-less connection” means that one element/node/feature is directly or indirectly joined to (or directly or indirectly communicates with) another element/node/feature with a mechanism that can be operated by a human without any tools or other separate parts to achieve a joined state and optionally to be disconnected from the joined state. 
         [0031]    “Locating connector”—The following description refers to devices or features being connected with a “locating connector”. As used herein, unless expressly stated otherwise, “locating connector” means that one element/node/feature is directly or indirectly joined to (or directly or indirectly communicates with) another element/node/feature with a mechanism that connects and also provides a locating function, such as for example but without limitation, alignment of elements/nodes/features or enhancing contact between two elements/nodes/features. 
         [0032]    The embodiments disclosed herein are described in the context of sun-tracking photovoltaic arrays and modules. However, these embodiments can be used in other contexts as well, such as non-sun-tracking solar systems, as well as concentrated photovoltaic solar systems and concentrated thermal solar systems, etc. 
         [0033]    In the description of  FIGS. 1-3  set forth below, an example of a prior art solar energy collection system  10  is described in the context of being formed by a plurality of solar collector devices, supported by torque tubes so as to be pivotally adjustable for sun-tracking purposes. Embodiments described below with reference to  FIGS. 4-17 , can be used with the solar collection system  10  illustrated in  FIGS. 1-3 , as well as the variations and equivalents thereof, including but without limitation, concentrated thermal solar systems. 
         [0034]      FIG. 1  illustrates a prior art solar collection system  10 , which can be considered an electricity farm. The solar collection system  10  includes a solar collector array  11  which includes a plurality of solar collection modules  12 . Each of the solar collection modules  12  can include one or a plurality of solar collecting devices  14  supported by a drive shaft or torque tube  16 . Each of the torque tubes  16  are supported above the ground by a support assembly  18 , and can be bolted to, or mechanically linked to each other, by a torque transmission member or “coupling flange” located on at least one end of the torque tube  16 . 
         [0035]    With continued reference to  FIG. 1 , the system  10  can also include a tracking drive  30  connected to the torque tube  16  and configured to pivot the torque tube  16  so as to cause the collector devices  14  to track the movement of the sun. In the illustrated embodiment, the torque tubes  16  are arranged generally horizontally and the modules  12  can be connected to each other and the torque tubes  16 , as more fully described in U.S. patent application Ser. No. 13/176,276, filed Jul. 5, 2011, the entire contents of which is hereby expressly incorporated by reference. However, embodiments disclosed herein can be used in the context of other types of arrangements. For example, the system  10  can include a plurality of modules  12  that are arranged such that the torque tubes  16  are inclined relative to horizontal, wherein the torque tubes  16  are not connected in an end to end fashion, such as the arrangement illustrated and disclosed in U.S. Patent Publication No. 2008/0245360. The entire contents of the 2008/0245360 patent publication, as well as the entire contents of the U.S. patent application Ser. No. 13/631782 are hereby expressly incorporated by reference. Further, the embodiments disclosed herein can be used in conjunction with the systems that provide for controlled tilting about two axes, although not illustrated herein. 
         [0036]    The solar collection devices  14  can be in the form of photovoltaic modules, thermal solar collection devices, concentrated photovoltaic devices, or concentrated thermal solar collection devices. In the illustrated embodiment, the solar collection devices  14  are in the form of non-concentrated, photovoltaic (PV) modules. The photovoltaic modules  14  can include one or more photovoltaic cells, encased in a frame assembly including an optically transparent upper cover and a peripheral frame. The design and structure of such photovoltaic modules are well known in the art are thus are not described in further detail. 
         [0037]    With reference to  FIG. 2 , solar collection system  10  can further include an electrical system  40  connected to the array  11 . For example, the electrical system  40  can include the array  11  as a power source connected to a remote connection device  42  with power lines  44 . The electrical system  40  can also include a utility power source, a meter, an electrical panel with a main disconnect, a junction, electrical loads, and/or an inverter with the utility power source monitor. The electrical system  40  can be configured and can operate in accordance with the descriptions set forth in U.S. Patent Publication No. 2010/0071744, the entire contents of which is hereby expressly incorporated by reference. Other electrical systems can also be used. 
         [0038]      FIG. 3  illustrates the array  11  with all but one of the solar collection devices  14  removed. As shown in  FIG. 3 , each of the support assemblies  18  includes the bearing  20  supported at the upper end of a pile  22 . The torque tube  16  can be of any length and can be formed in one or more pieces. The spacing of the piles  22 , relative to one another, can be determined based on the desired limits on deflection of the torque tubes  16  between the support structures  18 , wind loads, and other factors. 
         [0039]    The tilt drive  30  can include a drive strut  32  coupled with the torque tube  16  in a way that pivots the torque tube  16  as the drive strut  32  is moved axially along its length. The drive strut  32  can be connected with the torque tube  16  with torque arm assemblies  34 . In the illustrated embodiment, the torque arm assemblies  34  disposed at an end of each of the torque tube  16 . 
         [0040]    Also illustrated in  FIG. 3  is a solar module retention member arrangement  100  including one or more solar module retention members fixed to a torque tube  16 , which are generally referred to as “saddle members” in the art. Detailed descriptions of the various embodiments of the solar module retention arrangements  100 ,  100 A,  100 B are described below with reference to  FIGS. 4-16 . 
         [0041]    The torque tube  16  can have a solid or cylindrical body, extending along a longitudinal axis L. The cylindrical body can have any cross-sectional shape, including but without limitation, round, square, triangular, rectangular, polygonal, or other shapes. Thus, as used herein, the term “cylindrical” is intended to mean “a surface or solid bounded by two parallel or skewed planes and generated by a straight line moving parallel to the given planes and tracing a closed shape with any number of curved and/or straight segments, bounded by the planes and lying in a plane perpendicular or oblique to the given planes.” 
         [0042]    An aspect of at least one of the embodiments disclosed herein includes the realization that certain components of solar power systems, such as those components used to attach solar collection devices to pivoting structural members such as torque tubes, can be made at lower costs than known designs. For example, solar module retention members, also known as “saddle mounts” typically include a curved central portion and flat distal ends on either side of the curved central portion. The curved central portion is shaped so as to correspond to an outer surface of a torque tube for facilitating secure connection thereto. The flat portions at the opposite ends of the saddle are used for supporting the solar collection devices. 
         [0043]    The relatively complex shape of saddle mounts resulted in some prior designs which include side walls having a generally straight upper edge and a lower edge that extends through a wave-like configuration, thus resulting in a member having a non-uniform cross-section along its length. 
         [0044]    With reference to  FIG. 4 , an improved solar member retention assembly  100  can include one or more saddle members  102 ,  104 . At least one of the saddle members  102 ,  104  can have a generally uniform cross section along their length which extends in a direction generally transverse to the axis L of the torque tube  16 , and includes flat portions at opposite distal ends and a curved central portion. 
         [0045]    For example, the saddle members  102 ,  104  can include first distal ends  106 ,  108  respectively and second distal ends  110 ,  112 , respectively. The first and second ends  106 ,  110  of the saddle member  102  can be generally coplanar with each other. Additionally, optionally, the first and second ends  108 ,  112  of the saddle member  104  can also be coplanar with each other and coplanar with the first and second ends  106 ,  110  of the saddle member  102 . Other configurations can also be used. 
         [0046]    The saddle members  102 ,  104  also include a curved central portion  114 ,  116 . The curved central portions  114 ,  116  include a convexly curved central shape that is complimentary to an outer surface of the torque tube  16 . As such, the saddle mounts  102 ,  104  generate a curved contact area  118 ,  120  which facilitates connection to the torque tube  16 , for example, but without limitation, by welding. 
         [0047]    As noted above, the saddle members  102 ,  104  can include a generally uniform cross sectional shape along their length, between their first ends  106 ,  108  and their second ends  110 ,  112 . For example, a cross section of the saddle members  102 ,  104  at any position between the first ends  106 ,  108  and the second ends  110 ,  112  is generally channel-shaped. As such, each of the saddle mounts  102 ,  104  have a generally W-shaped configuration and a generally uniform cross section between the first ends  106 ,  108  and the second ends  110 ,  112 . Such a shape can be conveniently manufactured by a stamping process. For example each of the saddle mounts  102 ,  104  can be formed initially with a flat piece of sheet metal or a channel member, and then stamped into the illustrated shape. 
         [0048]    Although described herein as having a generally uniform cross section, the saddle mounts  102 ,  104  also include additional connection features, described in greater below, at the first ends  106 ,  108  and the second ends  110 ,  112 . Thus the cross section of the saddle mounts  102 ,  104  are not entirely uniform at the distal ends. 
         [0049]    For example, the saddle mount  102  includes a first side wall  122  and a second side wall  124 . The side walls  122 ,  124  are connected by a central web portion  126 . The side walls  122 ,  124 , and the central web portion  126  extend parallel to each other. Additionally, the distal portions of the central web portion  126  form the flat first and second end portions  106 ,  110 . Similarly, the saddle mount  104  includes side walls  128 ,  130  and a central web portion  132 . 
         [0050]    In the illustrated embodiment, the combination of the saddle mounts  102 ,  104  define a solar collector retention assembly  100 , which cooperate with each other to securely retain a solar collection device to the torque tube  16 . 
         [0051]    In the illustrated embodiment, the saddle mount  102  can include a connector member  134  configured to engage and thereby retain a solar module to the saddle mount  102 . For example, in some embodiments, the connector  134  can be configured to provide a snap fit with a solar module. For example, the connector member  134  can include at least one deflectable projection  136  configured to be biased so as to snap fit with a feature on a solar module, described in greater detail below. Optionally, the connector member  134  can include a second deflectable projection  138  also biased so as to provide a snap fit engagement with a feature on a solar module. 
         [0052]    The connector member  134 , optionally, can include first and second side walls  140 ,  142  and a central web portion  144  connecting the side walls  140 ,  142 . The size of the web portion  144  and side walls  140 ,  142  can be configured to fit over at least a portion of the flat portion  106  of the first end of the saddle mount  102 . For example, the side walls  140 ,  142  can be spaced such that the connector member  134  can fit around the portions of the side walls  122 ,  124  adjacent the first end  106  of the saddle mount  102 . Optionally, the connector member  134  can include a tab  146  configured to fit over an upper side of the flat end  106  with the central web portion  144  extending below the flat portion  106 . Optionally, a second connector member (not shown) the same or similar to the connector member  134  can be provided for the second end  110  of the saddle mount  102 . 
         [0053]      FIG. 5  illustrates the connector member  134  engaged with the first end  106  of the saddle mount  102 . Additionally,  FIG. 5  illustrates the deflectable projection  136  extending into an aperture  150  of a frame member  152  of a solar module. The frame member  152  can be mounted only to a bottom surface of a solar energy collection device, such as a “laminate.” Alternatively, the frame member  152  could be the type of frame member that extends along a portion of a periphery of a laminate of a solar module. 
         [0054]    Optionally, the connector member  134  can be made integrally or monolithically with the saddle member  102 . In some embodiments, the connector member  134  can be made from spring steel, which further facilitates the deflectable nature of the deflectable portions  136 ,  138 , for example, deflecting outwardly as a portion of a solar module passes between he projections  136 ,  138  and the return of the deflectable projections  136 ,  138  toward their biased position so as to retain a solar module in a desired location, described in greater detail below. 
         [0055]    With continued reference to  FIG. 4 , the saddle member  104  can include one or more projections. For example, the saddle member  104  can include a projection  160  disposed at the first end  108  of the saddle member  104 . The projection  160  can be configured to engage a feature on a frame of a solar module. Further, the projection  160  can be a “locating connector”, for example, it can be configured to provide for a positive locating function of a solar module while allowing a solar module to be pivoted relative to the saddle mount  104  and/or the saddle mount  102 . In some embodiments, the projection  160  is made from a bent piece of the saddle mount  104 . For example, where the saddle mount  104  is made from stamped sheet material, a portion of the sheet material can be bent transversely relative to the side wall  130  so as to extend inwardly toward the central web portion. Optionally, the saddle mount  104  can include a second projection  162  disposed at the second end  112  of the saddle mount  104 . Similarly, the projection  162  can be configured to extend into a feature, such as an aperture, on a frame of a solar module. Further, the projection  162  can be configured to allow the solar module to be tilted relative to the saddle mounts  104  and/or  102  while remaining engaged and thereby positively located by the projection  162 . 
         [0056]    With reference to  FIGS. 6 and 7 , the saddle mounts  102 ,  104  can be configured to engage and retain a solar module  170 . The solar module  170  can have any typical configuration. For example, the solar module  170  can include a laminate  172  which can include one or more “solar cells,” having any configuration, and encapsulated within an “encapsulant.” The solar cells within the laminate  172  face upwardly (as oriented in  FIGS. 6 and 7 ) so as to be exposed to sunlight for a conversion of sunlight into electrical energy. In some embodiments, the solar module  170  can include one or more electrical components  174  such as a junction box, inverter, or other devices. In the illustrated embodiments, the laminate extends in a longitudinal direction A ( FIGS. 3 ,  6 , and  7 ). Other configurations can also be used. Such designs are well known in the art and are not described in greater detail below. 
         [0057]    Additionally, the solar module can have one or more frame members, such as frame member  152  noted above and frame member  154  ( FIG. 6 ). In the configuration illustrated in  FIGS. 6 and 7 , the two frame members  152 ,  154  are bonded directly to a lower side of the laminate  172 . 
         [0058]    In other embodiments (not shown), the module  170  can include a plurality of frame members extending along an outer periphery of the laminate  172 . Those of ordinary skill in the art can understand how to apply the teachings and disclosures set forth herein to modules having peripheral frames. 
         [0059]    In some embodiments, the frame members  152 ,  154  can extend generally parallel to the longitudinal axis A of the laminate  172 . Additionally, the frame members  152 ,  154  can be positioned generally symmetrically relative to the longitudinal axis A, thereby providing the module  170  with a balanced arrangement of the frame members  152 ,  154 . 
         [0060]    In some embodiments, the frame members  152 ,  154  can each include one or more apertures, such as the aperture  150  described above with reference to  FIG. 5 . For example, the frame members  152  can include four apertures  150  disposed on opposite lateral sides of each frame member  152  so as to be generally aligned with the deflectable projections  136 ,  138  disposed at each of the longitudinal ends  106 ,  110  of the saddle member  102 . 
         [0061]    Similarly, the frame member  154  can include one or more apertures, such as the aperture  150  on the frame member  152 , in a position so as to be aligned with the projections  160 ,  162  on the saddle member  104  ( FIG. 4 ). Optionally, the frame members  152 ,  154  can each have four of the same sized apertures in the same locations. Such a configuration of the frame members  152 ,  154  provide additional cost savings in that the frame members  152 ,  154  can be identical to each other, and thus remove the need for creating two different frame members for each module  170 . However, other configurations can also be used. 
         [0062]    In some embodiments, the apertures  150  on the frame member  154  and the projections  160 ,  162  can be configured so as to capture the frame member  154  so as to register the position of the module relative to the torque tube  16  in a direction generally parallel to the axis A of the solar module  170 , with the flat surfaces at the ends  108 ,  112  of the saddle member  104 , providing support to the frame member  154  in the vertical direction and the side wall  130  of the saddle member  104  preventing further movement of the module  170 , relative to the torque tube  16 , towards the right-hand side of  FIG. 6 . 
         [0063]    Additionally, the aperture  150  on the frame members  154  and the projections  160 ,  162  can be sized and configured to allow the module  170  to be tilted through a range of motion, represented by angle  180  of  FIG. 6 , between a horizontal orientation (illustrated in phantom and corresponding to the position illustrated in  FIG. 7 ) and a tilted-up position with the apertures in the frame member  154  remaining engaged with the projections  160 ,  162 . The projections  160 ,  162  and the apertures  150  in the frame member  154  can be sized so as to remain engaged when pivoted through an angle  180  between about 5 and 20 degrees. 
         [0064]    As such, when an assembler is attaching the module  170  to the torque tube  16 , the assembler can first engage the frame member  154  with the saddle member  104  by aligning the apertures  150  of the frame member  154  with the projections  160 ,  162 , with the module  170  tilted in an up-tilted position, then tilt the module  170  downwardly so as to engage the frame member  152  with the saddle member  102 . 
         [0065]    This configuration can significantly simplify installation processes and reduce the number of people required for engaging a solar module  170  with a torque tube  16 . 
         [0066]    Optionally, as noted above, the solar module retention assembly  100  can include a tool-less connection. Thus, with continued reference to  FIGS. 5 ,  6  and  7 , as the frame member  152  is moved into engagement with the saddle member  102 , the deflectable projections  136 ,  138  can be first deflected outwardly as a lower surface of the frame member  152  contacts the sloped upper faces of the deflectable projections  136 ,  138 , then snap inwardly such that the deflectable projections  136 ,  138  snap into the apertures  150  on the frame member  152 . 
         [0067]    The connector  134 , including the portions of the connector  134  forming the deflectable projections  136 ,  138 , can be made from any material. Further benefits can be achieved by forming the connector  134  from spring steel. As such, the thickness and shape of the connector member  134 , and in particular the portions forming the deflectable projections  136 ,  138 , can be designed to provide the desired retaining performance for retaining the frame member  152  within the saddle mount  102 . 
         [0068]    For example, engaged in the position illustrated in  FIG. 7 , it is desirable that the projections  160 ,  162  on the saddle member  104  and the deflectable projections  136 ,  138  of the saddle member  102  can cooperate to retain the solar module  170  in the engaged position illustrated in  FIG. 7  as the torque tube  16  is rotated through its sun-tracking range of motion, which can be as much as about 45 degrees from horizontal. Further, optionally, the connector members  134  and projections  160 ,  162  can be configured to retain the solar module  170  in the engaged position illustrated in  FIG. 7  with the torque tube  16  completely inverted, such that the entire weight of the module  170  is supported by the projections  160 ,  162  and the connector members  134 , and more specifically, the deflectable projections  136 ,  138 . Further, the projections  160 ,  162  and the connector members  134  can be configured to retain the solar module in the engaged position illustrated in  FIG. 7  under any design load parameters, such as maximum wind forces that may act upon the modules  170 . Thus, in some designs, the projections  160 ,  162  and the connector members  134  can be configured to withstand upward forces of about at least 200 pounds. In some sites, higher wind loads might present a need for the connections to be configured to loads of up to 1500 lbs. Those of ordinary skill in the art know how to size the materials of the various components described above to withstand such loads. Additionally, any of the embodiments disclosed herein can also include other types of fasteners to supplement the holding effect of the tool-less connections, for example, but without limitation, threaded fasteners, rivets, welds, etc. 
         [0069]    With reference to  FIGS. 8-11 , a further embodiment of the solar module retention assembly  100  is illustrated therein and identified generally by the reference numeral  100 A. Components of the solar module retention member  100 A that are the same or similar to the solar modular retention assembly  100  are identified with the same reference numerals, except that a letter “A” has been added thereto. 
         [0070]    The solar module retention assembly  100 A can include one or a plurality of saddle members  102 A, which are similar to the saddle member  102  illustrated in  FIG. 4 . Primarily, the difference between the saddle member  102  illustrated in  FIG. 4  and the saddle member  102 A illustrated in  FIG. 8  is features disposed at the distal ends  106 ,  110 . 
         [0071]    As shown in  FIG. 8 , the side walls  122 ,  124  include apertures  200  and  202 , respectively. With reference to  FIGS. 9-11 , each of the solar modules  170 A can include frame members  152 A,  154 A, each of which can include deflectable projections  204 ,  206 . The deflectable projections  204 ,  206  can be configured to be deflectable between recessed and extended positions and to form a snap or interference fit with the apertures  200 ,  202 , respectively. 
         [0072]    In the illustrated embodiment, with reference to  FIG. 10 , the deflectable projections  204 ,  206  can be formed integrally with side walls of the frame members  152 ,  154 . In the illustrated embodiment, the deflectable projections  204 ,  206  are formed as tabs in the side walls of the frame members  152 A,  154 A, with upper ends  208 ,  210  configured to form an interference fit with the apertures  200 ,  202 , and in particular, the upper edges of the apertures  200 ,  202 , as illustrated in  FIG. 10 . 
         [0073]    Thus, as a solar module  170 A is lowered onto a plurality of saddle members  102 A, the frame members  152 A,  154 A can be lowered into the space between the side walls  122 A,  124 A. Additionally, as the frame members  152 A,  154 A are slid downwardly between the side walls and the deflectable projections  204 ,  206  are aligned with the apertures  200 ,  202 , the deflectable projections will initially slide inwardly and then snap outwardly, due to their bias, and interfere with the upper edges of the apertures  200 ,  202 . As described above with reference to the embodiments of  FIGS. 4-7 , the apertures  200 ,  202  and the deflectable projections  204 ,  206  can be configured to provide the desired holding strength or resistance to wind or other gravitational forces. 
         [0074]    With reference to  FIGS. 12-16 , a further embodiment of the solar module retention assembly  100  is illustrated therein and identified generally by the reference numeral  100 B. The solar module retention assembly  100 B can include a saddle member  102 B which is most similar to the saddle member  102 . For example, the saddle member  102 B includes projections  160 B,  162 B. Optionally, the saddle member  102 B can omit the side wall  122  included in the saddle member  102 . Optionally, each of the projections  160 B can include recesses  220 ,  222 . 
         [0075]    With reference to  FIGS. 13-16 , the projections  160 B,  162 B can be configured to form an interference fit with features on the frame members  152 B,  154 B. 
         [0076]    For example, with reference to  FIG. 16 , the frame members  152 B,  154 B can include apertures  150 B with an interference tab  230 . For example, the interference tab  230  can be formed from a tab-shaped portion of the material forming a side wall of the frame members  152 B,  154 B, and extending, at its free end, into the aperture  150 B. Thus, as the projection, such as the projections  160 B or  162 B, are inserted into the aperture  150 B, the interference tab  230  can engage one or more of the recesses  220 ,  222  so as to prevent the frame member  152 B,  154 B from disengaging from the projections  160 B,  162 B. Thus, the interference tab  230  can provide a snap or interference fit between the saddle member  102 B and the frame members  152 B,  154 B. 
         [0077]      FIGS. 13-15  illustrate an optional procedure for connecting the solar module  170 B with the torque tube  16 . For example, as shown in  FIGS. 13 and 14 , the solar module  170 B can be placed onto and supported by the flat surfaces at the distal ends  106 B,  110 B, and with the frame members  152 B,  154 B spaced away from the projections  160 B,  162 B. Then, as shown in  FIG. 15 , the module  170 B can be slid toward the right (as viewed in  FIG. 15 ), until the projections  160 B,  162 B extend through the apertures  150 B and until the interference tabs  230  engage with the recesses  220  or  222 , thereby locking the frame members  152 B,  154 B to the saddle members  102 B. 
         [0078]    This configuration provides some optional additional benefits. For example, by sizing the saddle members  102 ,  102 B with flat surfaces at the distal ends  106 ,  106 B,  110 ,  110 B that are sufficiently large to allow the solar module to be placed and rested upon the saddle members  102 ,  102 B in a position in which the projections do not contact the frame members the solar module  170  can be placed in a location and fully supported by the saddle members  102 ,  102 B. Assemblers can leave the solar module  170 ,  170 B in this position and move around the solar module  170 ,  170 B while aligning the apertures with the projections. Then, the entire module  170 ,  170 B can be slid in a single direction into a locked engagement. This can help reduce the number of assemblers required to attach a single solar module  170 ,  170 B to a torque tube  16 , and thereby lower labor costs associated with constructing a solar energy collection system. Other configurations can also be used. 
         [0079]    While at least one exemplary embodiment has been presented in the foregoing detailed description, it should be appreciated that a vast number of variations exist. It should also be appreciated that the exemplary embodiment or embodiments described herein are not intended to limit the scope, applicability, or configuration of the claimed subject matter in any way. Rather, the foregoing detailed description will provide those skilled in the art with a convenient road map for implementing the described embodiment or embodiments. It should be understood that various changes can be made in the function and arrangement of elements without departing from the scope defined by the claims, which includes known equivalents and foreseeable equivalents at the time of filing this patent application.