Abstract:
A support structure (SS) and method for mounting SS and solar equipment on pitched roofs. Preassembled SS is installable/ removable, as a single module for reduced cost, installation time, and hazards. Optional housing for battery, electronics, and wireless equipment, is disposed in portion of preassembled SS that resides in protected interior of building. An elevated attach point on the SS optionally accepts cellular and high-frequency transceivers (for mesh network). SS penetrates roof, not on leak-prone roof face, but at roof apex using a main support coupleable to internal building structure. An interface member on the main support has a shape that is conformal to the roof apex to provide a weatherproof seal, load support, and a fulcrum to absorb equipment torque. Padded-standoffs support equipment weight on roof. Optionally, SS frame tubing acts as wire-conduit or SS frame is configured as power conductor for low-voltage, parallely-coupled, independently-troubleshootable, solar panels.

Description:
CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS 
       [0001]    This application is a continuation of, and claims priority to, PCT International Application No. PCT/US2013/069351, by D. Kevin Cameron, entitled “MODULAR STRUCTURAL SYSTEM FOR SOLAR PANEL INSTALLATION,” having an international filing date of Nov. 8, 2013; and also claims priority to provisional application, U.S. Ser. No. 61/723,786, filed Nov. 8, 2012, entitled “FRAMING FOR SOLAR PANELS WITH REDUCED FRAME-TO-ROOF INTERFERENCE,” and claims priority to provisional application, U.S. Ser. No. 61/775,700, filed Mar. 11, 2013, entitled “FRAMING COMPONENTS FOR REDUCING SOLAR PV INSTALLATION COSTS,” both of which applications are also incorporated by reference herein, in their entirety. 
     
    
     FIELD OF TECHNOLOGY 
       [0002]    This disclosure relates generally to the technical field of installation of equipment on a roof, and in one example embodiment, this disclosure relates to a method, apparatus and system of installing solar panels and a structural support for the solar panels on a roof. 
       BACKGROUND 
       [0003]    In the early development of the solar photovoltaic (PV) industry, the dominant cost component of a system was the PV cells. Over time, the cost of PV cells dropped substantially. As a result, the “balance of system” costs are now a large portion of the cost of buying and installing a solar system. The “balance of system” costs include the use of skilled labor and the cost of other hardware. 
         [0004]    Since housing is a durable good with a long lifetime, a PV solar system can be utilized on a given roof installation for a substantial amount of time, with the lifetime of the roofing not coincident with the lifetime of any solar installation. Tile roofs are particularly difficult to retrofit with solar PV because drilling holes in tile is difficult and can result in breakage of the tile. However, residential roofs are a good target market, as opposed to commercial rooftops, because residential roofs typically have a substantial amount of unused space on both the outside and inside with easy access to wiring. 
         [0005]    Existing approaches also tend to damage the integrity of the roofs on which they are installed by requiring supports and wiring conduit to pass through the main section of the roof In addition, existing installation techniques are not designed for serviceability of the PV system or the roof Many solar installations utilize standoffs that attach to a housing structure by using fasteners that pierce the roof shingles and rafters. Flashing and caulk is used to reduce leakage around these breaches in the roof However, any hole made in the face of a roof, between the apex of the roof down to the lip of the roof by the fascia, which area is over living quarters, reduces the lifespan of the roof and is apt to cause leakage and integrity problems much sooner than if the roof was not breached. For the PV system to be replaced for an upgrade or repair, skilled labor is required to disconnect the high-voltage electrical wiring of the PV system. Moreover, the disassembly of the PV system is time-consuming and painstaking because of the number of standoffs fastened to the building structure and because of the many rails, brackets, and fasteners used to retain the PV solar panels. 
         [0006]    In addition to the need for clean energy, modern society has an insatiable demand for communication bandwidth. 4G/Long Term Evolution (LTE) cellular bandwidth is already fully subscribed and in order to create more a move to smaller cells is required and/or higher frequencies. Unfortunately higher frequencies (25 GHz and up) cannot penetrate buildings, and people object to cell towers in their backyards. 
       SUMMARY 
       [0007]    An apparatus, system, and method of installation for a support structure of roof mounted equipment, specifically solar panels, on a pitched roof Modules are prefabricated, then lowered onto a roof using a single hole or access point in the roof to connect the module to the building structure, and to couple wiring to electrical loads, either in the house or on the module or to a grid. A hole is utilized at the apex of the roof where the structural impact is minimal and potential damage from any leaks is minimized. The part of the module that drops into the roof space contains the power electronics. The entry hole in the apex is sealed and protected such that water will not penetrate through it. A clamping structure is attached to the part of the frame in the roof space, which either clamps it to the roofing material or to the roof supports. A module may have any number of any size panels, focusing on a cost effective size for transportation and for fitting popular sizes of roof (from the apex to the gutter). On a wide roof, multiple independent units may be installed. 
         [0008]    Standoffs are attached to the framing to keep it the desired distance from the roof surface, but do not attach to the roof. Standoffs are made from flexible material to absorb variations in roof materials. The power electronics that converts the unregulated panel power to usable regulated power is attached between the main support pieces in the roof space, since this is beneath the roof, typically in an interior building space such as an attic, which is protected from the elements, and results in a cheaper interior-grade housing (vs. a NEMA  4  rated exterior box). The power electronics housing includes a large (extruded) aluminum heat sink that is multi-functionally coupled between the framing uprights for rigidity. After being lowered into place a “clamp beam” is attached to the framing on either or both sides of the framing to attach it to the roof 
         [0009]    Framing components can use steel or aluminum having cross-sections of an L-bar, T-bar, and square or round tube. Standoffs and panel clamps may be made of metal or non-conductive materials, and may be threaded onto the framing and glued/welded rather than using bolts since with preassembly the construction time will not affect the installation time. 
         [0010]    Typical roofing structure is composite shingle over plywood and wood rafters, to which the ends of the clamp beam can be attached (if required). If the roof is tile on top of a wood frame (or similar), the clamp beam is attached to the rafters (if flat) or around them (if shaped to do so, e.g. by wrapping around the open sides of the rafter). The framing and clamp have a bolt hole pattern such that it can accommodate different thicknesses of roof, and thus allow secure attachment with only one bolt per clamp beam (attachment of ends being optional). Since roof rafter spacing is normally a fixed size, the spacing between the framing members can be set such that the clamp beams are close to the rafters on both sides for more secure attachment. To save material or fit tighter spaces the clamp beam may be constructed such that it only extends in one direction. The clamp may also include flanges to stop it from twisting vs. the frame. Where the roof rafter spacing is significantly larger than the framing width and a single clamp is insufficient, alternative clamp configurations with a longer reach are used. In building structures using a (structural) beam along the apex of the roof, the vertical part of the framing can pass beside it and the weatherproofing plate(s) would be offset as required. 
         [0011]    As an alternative or in addition to clamping, a “battery basket” may be hung from the internal end of the framing that will act as ballast as well as providing safe housing for batteries for storing the solar power. 
         [0012]    While a single pitch of PV, e.g., facing south on a building, is expected to be the common configuration, another embodiment accommodates multiple different pitches, e.g., where the pitches face east and west on the building and receive similar amounts of sunlight over a day. 
         [0013]    Since the structure and PV panels are preassembled, no external wiring/attachment is performed during installation, and thus, the exterior parts of the equipment can be sealed against the elements prior to installation. This allows the use of materials like steel, rather than aluminum, which is cheaper and more weldable. Welding results in better electrical contact if the framing is used to transfer power. 
         [0014]    If metal tubing is used for the uprights, (e.g. square pipe) it may double as conduit for wiring. In addition, it may serve as a place to plug in antenna brackets (see below), in which case simple end-caps may be used to seal the tubes that can be “popped” out so that additional framing can be added after initial installation. Note that the lower end of the tube would be exposed below the electronics so that water ingress through the tubes would not leak onto electronics. 
         [0015]    Solar panels can be wired in various configurations, where wiring codes allow: the frame may be used as an electrode to reduce costs further. If the two framing members are electrically isolated then they may be used to carry all the power off the roof (one as the positive connection the other as the negative connection). The power electronics can use its mechanical attachment to the framing as its electrical contact, eliminating the need for special connectors. Otherwise, the PV cables will pass through the rain deflection plate via watertight grommet (or similar), or inside the framing 
         [0016]    The minimum cost and maximum efficiency implementation uses the framing for power transfer from parallely coupled PV panels managed by maximum power-point tracking (MPPT) electronics on each panel so that the voltage going into the roof space is low (sub 50V is preferable for US wiring codes), and there is redundancy among the panels. Electrically insulative paint on framing parts is sufficient dielectric protection below 50V, and cross pieces, such as the rain deflector plate, can be constructed from non-conductive material (fiberglass, ABS, etc.). In addition, MPPT tracking electronics can be designed to shut off power automatically when it senses an arc fault. Low voltage systems can also use parts designed for automotive systems that are cheaper due to their volume production. 
         [0017]    Roof pitches are variable, but the prefabricated unit can be used over a wide range of pitches because the load-bearing member extending into the roof space does not have to be vertical. The rain deflector plate, known also as the interface member, can be hinged at its apex to accommodate the different roof pitches, using a fastener hinge pin that can be tightened once the pieces are in place to hold the desired angle, with optional welding of the hinged interface member for security/connectivity. For a two-sided roof with mirror pitches, the same angle will be set for both halves of the interface member. For single pitch roofs that end at an exterior vertical wall, one half of the interface member would be rigidly attached to the panel framing, while the other half would be attached to the building structure flexibly, using foam, Silicone sealants, and/or boots for weatherproofing. Another embodiment uses a per-pitch hinging. Welding may also be used to achieve more reliable connectivity and structural integrity, either prior to shipment to a known roof pitch, or on-site prior to installation for an unknown roof pitch. 
         [0018]    If an installation requires extra stability (under strong winds etc.), the frame may be tied down using steel wire(s) from attachment points on the lower end of the frame to assemblies at the lower edge of the roof, e.g., at or around the gutter, where the main roof area&#39;s integrity will not be compromised if holes are drilled (i.e. any leaks caused will be beyond the walls). If the framing runs all the way from the apex to the lower edge of the roof by the gutter, the lower standoffs may be constructed such that they attach to the roof by screws or bolts. Attachment points on the framing used for hoisting the PV assembly onto the roof double as tie-down points. If the framing extends beyond the gutter, it may be tied down to the wall supporting the roof. 
         [0019]    The same equipment can be used on mono-pitch or mid-pitch roofs if the rain deflection plate is laid under the upper side shingle or tile. 
         [0020]    Residential installation can be accomplished by one to two workers. One person would be on the roof to cut the hole and guide the unit, the second would operate a “cherry picker” to lift the units from a delivery truck to the roof. Hoops, or lift-brackets, can be welded to the framing to aid hoisting the unit. Once in place a technician can finish the installation from within the roof space. If the cherry picker in question can be operated by remote control, then a single person could perform the entire installation if also qualified for internal wiring. Removal of the frame and PV panel for servicing utilizes the reverse process, i.e. no in-place servicing of the PV panel and electronics is required. Instead, the unit is removed and replaced or upgraded. 
         [0021]    The PV panels can be sized such that on roofs where multiple units are installed, adjacent units have some small clearance, assuming a unit falls between alternate sets of rafters. The appearance from the ground is then similar to existing systems where panels are abutted (making maximum use of the roof space), but has the advantage that any single unit can be removed for service/replacement. 
         [0022]    The standoff design will depend on the roof construction, but for clay/ceramic tiles plates with a foam or rubber cushion that can adjust to the tiles are used so no high pressure points exist that otherwise might cause a fracture, and the weight is spread over a number of tiles. The foam/rubber is deeply ribbed so that water can drain through and not collect on the top side. 
         [0023]    In simple installations, one would expect the output of the power electronics to be grid-tied AC power. Some additional redundancy can be achieved by wiring the DC side of the inverters in parallel between units so that on the failure of an inverter stage in any unit its power will be transferred to other units, thus avoiding complete loss of the unit. The DC bus created by doing this may be used directly for off-grid power. 
         [0024]    Since this framing system is intended to sit at the highest point on a roof, it makes an excellent platform for antennas for line-of-sight networking. In addition, because this design is expected to be deployed on many roofs, it is particularly well suited for implementing small cells and mesh networks in the 60-80 GHz range. Add the availability of solar PV and battery backup power for the transceivers, and the result is an extremely reliable network. Electronics for relaying network traffic may be combined with the power electronics for the solar, bridging to networks that will work inside the residence or with standard cell phone networks. In particular, this may be used with high bandwidth fiber-optic wiring like that used with a DC bus system to bridge gaps in fiber-optic distribution. 
     
    
     
       BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE VIEW OF DRAWINGS 
         [0025]    Example embodiments are illustrated by way of example and not limitation in the figures of the accompanying drawings, in which like references indicate similar elements and in which: 
           [0026]      FIGS. 1A-1C  are a front view, top view, and side view of a building structure having a preassembled support structure and solar panel unit, on one side of a two-sided roof, that pierces the roof only at the apex, according to one or more embodiments. 
           [0027]      FIG. 1D  is a front view of an alternative single-slope roof architecture having a preassembled support structure and solar panel unit that pierces the roof only at the apex, according to one or more embodiments. 
           [0028]      FIG. 1E  is a front view of a building structure having a preassembled support structure and solar panel unit, on both sides of a two-sided roof, which pierces the roof only at the apex, according to one or more embodiments. 
           [0029]      FIG. 2A  is an oblique view of a preassembled framing system, with integrated electronics module and battery module, which is installable as a single unit on a roof, according to one or more embodiments. 
           [0030]      FIG. 2B  is a cross-section of a square-tube rail for supporting a solar panel in the support structure and for providing a conduit enclosure for power and ground wires, according to one or more embodiments. 
           [0031]      FIG. 2C  is an oblique view of an angle-iron rail for supporting a solar panel in the support structure, including a conduit enclosure for power and ground wires, according to one or more embodiments. 
           [0032]      FIG. 2D  is a view of a standoff for a composite shingle roof, according to one or more embodiments. 
           [0033]      FIG. 2E  is an oblique view of a standoff with a grooved silicone pad for a tile roof, according to one or more embodiments. 
           [0034]      FIG. 2F  is an oblique view of a multiple transceiver attachment to the support structure, according to one or more embodiments. 
           [0035]      FIG. 2G  is an oblique view of a hinged interface member, according to one or more embodiments. 
           [0036]      FIG. 3A  is a top view of a PV panel assembly cascaded down an extended-height roof, according to one or more embodiments. 
           [0037]      FIG. 3B  is a side view of a telescoping support rail system, according to one or more embodiments. 
           [0038]      FIG. 3C  is a side view of a cable-tensioned telescoping support rail system, according to one or more embodiments. 
           [0039]      FIG. 4  is a flowchart of a method to install and remove a modular PV support structure, according to one or more embodiments. 
       
    
    
       [0040]    Other features of the present embodiments will be apparent from the accompanying drawings and from the detailed description that follows. 
       DETAILED DESCRIPTION 
       [0041]    An apparatus and system for a support structure (SS) and a method for mounting (solar) equipment and the support structure onto pitched roofs. In the following description, for the purposes of explanation, numerous specific details are set forth in order to provide a thorough understanding of the various embodiments. It will be evident, however to one skilled in the art that various embodiments may be practiced without these specific details. 
         [0042]    Referring now to  FIGS. 1A-1C , a front view, top view, and side view of a building structure  100 -A having a preassembled support structure and solar panel unit  200 -A, also referred to as a pre-assembled module, on a first side  142  of a two-sided roof, that pierces the roof  141  only at the apex  116  is shown, according to one or more embodiments. 
         [0043]    The support structure (SS)  200 -A includes at least one support rail  240  for supporting the equipment, i.e., solar panels  160 , coupled to one or more standoffs  239  for maintaining the equipment  160  at a distance away from a face  114 -A of the roof  141 . SS  200 -A is preassembled off the roof for installation on the roof  141  as a single unit. SS  200 -A requires no fasteners to penetrate the face  114 -A of the roof in order to retain the SS  200 -A to the building structure  100 -A. SS  200 -A does penetrate the roof  141  of the building structure, but not on the face  114 -A of the roof. Rather, SS  200 -A penetrates the roof only at a region  118  covered by the ridge shingle  119  at apex  116  of the roof  141 . The one or more standoffs  239  have no retention feature to couple them to the roof of the building structure, e.g., no fasteners, holes for fasteners, etc. that would penetrate roof  141 . The one or more standoffs  239  transmit only a compressive load toward, and not a tensile load away from, the surface of the roof without penetrating the roof. The SS  200 -A with solar panels  160  is preassembled off the roof for installation on the roof as a modular unit. 
         [0044]    The main support (MS)  202 -A includes a load-bearing member  210 , and an interface member  212  has a face that mates with the apex of the roof, i.e., the inverted “V” shape that matches the inverted “V” shape of the apex of the roof. Additionally, interface member  212  is larger than the gap, or roof opening,  122  formed through the plywood sheet  145  through which the LBM passes. Beneficially, the interface member  212  provides at least one of a pivot point for any torque loads from the equipment, a physical support of weight load of the equipment  160  and balance of support structure  200 -A, and a weather shield for the hole in the roof. Only the portion of load-bearing member  210  located below interface member  212  extends beyond an imaginary plane formed by the interface member  212  in order to penetrate through the apex  116  of roof  141  into interior space  111  where SS  200 -A will be attached to interior structure  110 , i.e., SS  200 -A will be attached to rafters  146  in attic. The imaginary plane of the interface member  212 , when installed on the building structure  100 , is the roof surface  141  under each respective side of the interface member  212 . Optionally, a brace member may be extended to joist  147  for extra support. 
         [0045]    The MS  202 -A additionally includes a counterbalance member  228 , coupled to the LBM  210 , for absorbing torque-loads generated by the equipment, e.g., wind load on solar panels  160 . While counterbalance member  228  is capable of absorbing all torque loads of module  202 -A, the present embodiment, also includes a tie-down member  242  coupled to at least one support rail  240  and has a length that allows the tie-down member to be attached to the building structure  100 -A at a location, e.g., overhang  112 , that is outside of face  114 -A of roof  141 , such that face  114 -A of roof  141  is not penetrated, thereby preserving the waterproof integrity of the face  114 -A of roof  141 . In one embodiment, only a single tie-down  242  is required to retain a lower-end of the entire SS  200 -A. 
         [0046]    While power transmission from solar panels  160  is provided by traditional wiring  216 -A, as shown in  FIG. 2A , the present embodiment is well-suited to utilizing support rails  240  and main support  202  to conduct power to inverters, especially if module  200 -A is operated at low-voltage, e.g., sub-50V in US, thereby making it a low-risk hazard. In this latter embodiment, the plurality of rails, i.e. first rail  240 -A and third rail  240 -C (for an additional parallel module only partially shown) are selectively coupled to each other electrically, and to the renewable energy source (solar panels), according to polarity, i.e. positive (+), and are selectively coupled to at least one of the load-bearing members  210 - 1  electrically, according to polarity, (+), in order to conduct current generated by a solar panel  160  to the electronics housing  230 . Similarly, a second rail  240 -B is electrically coupled to a second polarity (−) of the renewable energy source, and physically coupled to a second LBM  210 - 2 , which has the same polarity. Rails of one polarity, i.e.,  240 -A are electrically insulated from rails of a different polarity, i.e.,  240 -B and -C, both of which are coupled to electrical devices in interior  110  of building  100 -A to provide isolation required by safety rules, and a less harsh interior setting allowing for less-expensive interior-rated electronics. The ultimate destination of the power is one or more electrical loads of a battery, a device in the building structure, and a grid, e.g., via optional power electronics housing  230 -A, -B of  FIG. 2A , where the power can be conditioned and the voltage boosted for DC or AC applications. Connections from solar panels  160  and power electronics in housing  230 -A to rail  240  and LBM  210  can be made by welding pieces together, or by connecting support structure components with self-tapping fasteners, that cut a clean metal connection, and using rubber-sealed washers to provide a moisture proof sealing, which reduces corrosion and resistance buildup. 
         [0047]    Referring now to  FIGS. 1D , a front view of a building  100 -D with an alternative single-slope roof architecture is shown having a preassembled support structure  200 -D with solar panels  160  that pierces the roof only at the apex, according to one or more embodiments. Since the architecture  200 -D is a single-slope without a mirror copy of the roof on the opposite side of the apex, there is an overhang  112 -D 1  on the lower part of roof  141  and an overhang  112 -D 2  on the upper part of roof  141 , to which the support structure  200 -D can be either tied down or attached without penetrating roof face  114 -D, thus preserving roof integrity. Ridge shingles are not used in a standard single-pitch roof of the present embodiment, but then can be used to cover interface member  212 . Consequently, a single preassembled module can still be utilized for installation as a single unit to save time and money in the present embodiment. However, the housing for battery and power electronics need not be an exterior grade NEMA  4  rated exterior box. 
         [0048]    Referring now to  FIGS. 1E , a front view of a building structure  100 -E is shown having a preassembled support structure and solar panel unit  200 -E, located on both sides of a two-sided roof  142 ,  144 , which pierces the roof  141  only at the apex  116 , according to one or more embodiments. The present embodiment provides a more balanced solution than  FIG. 1A  having PV panels only on one side of the roof, though it is most likely applied to an east-west oriented apex, providing a similar sun exposure on both sides  142 ,  144  of the roof. Optional gusset assembly  243  provides improved torque-absorbing capability and balance in the support structure  200 -E. Optional battery basket  220  coupled to bottom of load-bearing member  202 . All three factors of the gusset  243 , battery ballast  220 , and balanced modules  200 -E enable the present configuration to eliminate a tie down of the lowest portion of the module  200 -E The main support  202 -E absorbs all of a torque load generated by the equipment on the SS in one embodiment. Thus, no tie-down is needed to retain a lower end of the SS  200 -E. 
         [0049]    Referring now to  FIG. 2A , an oblique view of a preassembled main supports  202  is shown with integrated electronics module and battery module, which is installable as a single unit on a roof, according to one or more embodiments. Also shown are rails  240  and standoffs  239 , coupled to main support  202 , for supporting weight of solar panels  160  against roof  141  as shown in  FIG. 1A . Main support (MS)  202  includes two load-bearing members  210 - 1 , - 2 , each having a first end,  210 -A a second end  210 -B, and an interface member  212  disposed between first end  210 -A and second end  210 -B, wherein interface member  212  has a face that mates with the apex of the roof, e.g., an inverted “V” and is larger than the gap  122  through which the second end  210 -B of LBM  210 , as shown in  FIGS. 1A-1C . MS  202  optionally includes a housing  230 -A and  230 -B, slated for storing at least one of a power electronics for solar panels  160 , signal processing electronics for optional transceiver, and a battery, respectively, and coupled to second end  210 -B of the LBM  210  and disposed below the imaginary plane created by each leg of the inverted “V” of the interface plate  212  such that housing  230 -A, -B will be located below the roof  141  when installed in the building structure, as shown in  FIGS. 1A ,  1 D, and  1 E. Housing  230 -A includes a battery that provides backup power for an electrical system of the building structure, an optional transceiver, or a power grid. Optional adapter mount  218  disposed on first end  210 -A of LBM  210  is for receiving at least one transceiver, such as that shown in subsequent  FIG. 2F , which will be disposed above apex  116  of the roof  141  in order to provide a line of sight for transceiving, e.g., in a mesh network. 
         [0050]    Rail  240  and load bearing member  210  can be utilized as a conduit to route power and ground wires  216 -A across the roof plane to an interior space  110  of building  100 , as shown in  FIG. 1A . Similarly, load bearing member  210  can be used as a conduit to route power, ground, and data lines  216 -B from first end  210 -A of LBM  210  to an interior space  110  of building  100 , for access to power electronics and digital signal processing equipment disposed in housing  230 -B. Power plug  219  can be used for supplement power, e.g., to optional transceiver device  270  of  FIG. 2F , if coupled to main support  202 . 
         [0051]    As an example of the torque absorbing capabilities of main support  202 , as applied to a building structure of  FIG. 1A , if a force F 1  is exerted on rail  240 , such as a wind load during a storm, it creates a torque T 1  that tries to lift the lower portion of support structure  200 -A off a roof  141  . A balancing force F 3  is applied to standoffs  239  of counterbalance members  228  at the roof  141  to create a counter-torque T 2 . 
         [0052]    Referring now to  FIG. 2B , a cross-section of a square-tube rail  258  is shown for supporting a solar panel in the support structure and for providing a conduit enclosure  260  for power and ground wires, according to one or more embodiments. Square-tube rail  258  has an internal cavity through which wires may be routed. This reduces installation materials for separate conduit, and labor spent to bend the conduit and affix it to the support structure. Similarly, in  FIG. 2C , an oblique view of an angle-iron rail  254  is shown for supporting a solar panel in the support structure, including a conduit enclosure  256  for power and ground wires, according to one or more embodiments. 
         [0053]    Referring now to  FIG. 2D , a view of a standoff  222  for a composite shingle roof is shown, according to one or more embodiments. Standoff includes a flexible face piece  223  that interfaces with the composite shingle roof, e.g., roof  141  of  FIG. 1A . Face piece can be any weather resistant material that offers elasticity and shock absorption while avoiding adhesion over time to composite shingles. Similarly,  FIG. 2E  shows an oblique view of a standoff  222  with a wide base  224  and silicone pad  226  for low unit loading on a tile roof, according to one or more embodiments. A softer silicone material absorbs more loads without transmitting them to the clay roof tile, which may otherwise crack. Silicone pad  226  is grooved  225  in a downward direction  227  of roof, to allow flow of water there through and to provide breathing to avoid adhesion to the tile. 
         [0054]    Referring now to  FIG. 2F , an oblique view of a multiple transceiver attachment to the support structure is shown, according to one or more embodiments. Transceiver assembly  270  includes any one or more communication protocols, such as a cellular transceiver  274  coupled to the adapter mount  276  for providing a microcell station for local cellular communications. Another possible transceiver coupleable to the adapter mount of the SS is a high-frequency transceiver  272  for providing a short reach relay communication to another high-frequency transceiver in a mesh network in order to transmit data between the microcell stations and an edge router that is coupled to a switching office or other backhaul service. By having transceiver assembly  270  located on ubiquitous solar installations, a natural mesh grid is available across a typical urban or suburban neighborhood, which is where bandwidth is in demand for wireless communications. 
         [0055]    Referring now to  FIG. 2G , an oblique view of a hinged interface member  212 -G is shown, according to one or more embodiments. Hinged interface member  212 -G flexibly adjusts the two flanges  212 -A and  212 -B to match a specific roof pitch within a wide range of possible roof pitches. Hinge pin  213  is threaded on one end with a capture bolt to provide a clamping of desired position. Alternatively, hinged interface member  212 -G can be welded during preassembly for a known roof pitch or welded in the field for an unknown roof pitch. Cutout  215  is oversized to accommodate steep roof pitches that require a longer cutout, as compared to a shallow pitch roof that requires a smaller cutout. A rubber grommet can also be provided around LBM  210  to fill any gaps with cutout  215  in interface member  212 . Pin  213  can be threaded through LBM  210  to offer further retention of LBM  210  on building structure  100 . 
         [0056]    Referring now to  FIG. 3A , a top view of a cascaded PV panel module  300  down an extended-height roof is shown, according to one or more embodiments. A typical module  200 -A of PV panels  160  is similar to that shown in  FIG. 1A . However, in the present embodiment, additional sets of panels  302  and  304  are coupled serially down a roof of a building structure, with rails  240 -A and  240 -B coupled to respective rails in subsequent modules via fastening means  306 . A serial arrangement as shown would require a tie down on the end of panel set  304  furthest from apex  116 . This embodiment would require some on-roof assembly due to the length of the module 
         [0057]    Referring now to  FIG. 3B , a side view of a telescoping support rail system  310  is shown, according to one or more embodiments. View  312  illustrates a closed, or retracted, position of the telescoping rails  316 ,  318 ,  320  while view  314  illustrates an expanded or deployed position of the telescoping rails.  316 ,  318 ,  320 , with installed solar panels  160 , each of which is slightly larger than the one nesting within it. This embodiment allows for more compact storage and shipment of solar systems having more solar panels in a module than provided in  FIG. 3A . Telescoping rails can have a series of holes that allows for some flexibility in length for different roof sizes. Fasteners lock the telescoping rails into their final position for deployment. 
         [0058]    Referring now to  FIG. 3C , a side view of a cable-tensioned telescoping support rail system  330  is shown, according to one or more embodiments. Cable  334  is fixed at end  336 , retractable by reel  332  for storage and shipment of module  330 . Once telescoping rails  316 ,  318 , and  320  are extended and fastened to their proper length, a tension can be placed on the assembly via cable  334  to ensure rigidity and integrity. 
         [0059]    Referring now to  FIG. 4 , a flowchart  400  of a method to install and remove a modular PV support structure is shown, according to one or more embodiments. Flowchart  400  is described herein as implemented on exemplary support structure  200  on building structure  100 -A of  FIGS. 1A-1C , unless noted otherwise, including the alternative embodiments described herein. 
         [0060]    Operations  402  through  416  provide for installation procedure  401 . In operation  402 , a support structure  200 -A is received for supporting equipment, notably PV solar panels  160 , on a roof  141  of building structure  100 -A. Structural system  200 -A is received as a modular unit, e.g., delivered by flatbed truck at the work site, with solar panels  160  installed, and optional battery and power electronics housing  230 -A and -B of  FIG. 2A , already installed and wired. Sensitive optional equipment, such as transceiver assembly  270 , can be installed in situ, on the roof, after support structure  200  is secured in order to avoid damage. Because support structure  200  is preassembled, including pre-wiring, installation on building  100 -A is greatly simplified, thereby saving time and money. Operation  402  can be scheduled after operation  406  for labor efficiency. 
         [0061]    Operation  404  requires the creation of an opening in a ridge of a roof to accept the main support of the structural system. The first sub step is to remove the ridge shingles/ the  119  to get access to the wood panel sheets  145  thereunder, e.g., plywood or OSB On a new house, the plywood base of the roof can be cut short, thereby leaving a gap, or opening,  122  at the apex  116  of the roof  141  to receive the portion, e.g.,  210 -B end of load-bearing member, of the support structure  200  that penetrates the plane of the roof  141  to be disposed in the interior space  111 , e.g., an attic. Many houses already have this gap  122  at the apex  116 , for installation of a ridge vent. In this case, the sheet metal or plastic ridge vent can be cut out to create the necessary gap. In operation  406 , an optional opening in apex, or ridge,  116 , is created to accommodate housings  230 -A, -B of  FIG. 2A  for the battery and power electronics. 
         [0062]    Turning to operation  408 , the preassembled modular support structure  200  is lowered onto the roof, without upper and lower cross braces  226 -B, -A attached. A semi-skilled worker can make the installation single-handedly if she is qualified for low-voltage wiring, and if the boom lift used to raise and lower the support structure  200  is remotely operable. Support structure  200  is lifted by lift hooks/hoop flanges installed on the support structure, or by a webbed strap under the structure, and the second end  210 -B, with associated housings  230 -A, -B, is then threaded through the opening  122  in apex  116  into the interior space  111  of building structure  100 -A. The support structure is seated when the interface member  212  and standoffs  239  naturally come to rest against the roof  141 . At this point, there is no need to fasten the support structure to the roof to prevent it from sliding down the roof, because the load-bearing member  210  is sufficiently strong to retain the base weight of the support structure  200 , save a condition of unusually strong winds. 
         [0063]    In operation  412 , the installer can secure support structure  200  to building structure  110  by installing cross-brace  226 -A, -B in the interior  111  space, either by threaded lug bolts or by clamping mechanism. Because the load-bearing member  210  is installed adjacent to the rafter  146 , the interface member  212  loads down on the plywood  145  as well as on the rafter  146 , thereby providing structural integrity. An alternative cross brace could capture a bottom-side of a rafter  146  thereby placing the height of the rafter  146  in compression while pulling down on load-bearing member  210  in tension, thereby ensuring a pre-loaded main support  202 . Optional tie-downs  242  can also be attached in this step, especially for support structures that are lengthy, i.e., more than two panels. For two-panel support structures  200 , the cross-bracing  226 -A, -B and optional counterbalance member  228  are sufficient. 
         [0064]    In operation  414 , ridge shingles are installed. The ridge shingle  119  is the easiest and least risky shingle to replace on the roof because they are easily replaced, and they do not disturb any adjacent shingles. In fact, a carefully removed ridge shingle can be reused after the support structure is installed, thus guaranteeing shingle color matching and reducing cost. In comparison, replacing shingles midway down a roof if needed in a traditional solar system installation does disturb adjacent shingles, especially those layered over the shingle of interest, with a frequent side effect of causing leaks. 
         [0065]    In operation  416 , electrical wiring is coupled from the building&#39;s power system(s), as well as wires  216 -B for transceiver operation (if it is being added independently on-site to avoid damage during operation  402 ). Optional AC building power is provided via outlet  219 . Power electronics in housing  230 -B can provide maximum power-point tracking (MPPT) on a per-module basis, e.g., for the two solar panels  160  shown. Additional modules installed side-by-side on roof  141  provides parallel sources of power, each with its own inverter and MPPT module. In this manner, troubleshooting for a failed or underperforming solar system is easily accomplished. Furthermore, if wired in parallel, oversized inverters from a set of solar panels on support structure  200  can absorb current from an adjacent module where an inverter has failed. A serial arrangement of PV solar modules is also usable with the present disclosure, noting that using framing as conduit will avoid violating high voltage wiring regulations (in the USA). 
         [0066]    Operation  418  inquires whether a support structure and attached solar panels needs to be serviced or upgraded. As mentioned, with a parallel and per-module electronics system, a failed or underperforming module is easier to detect. If no removal is needed, then the solar system remains operational. 
         [0067]    Operations  420  through  426  provide for removal procedure  419 . If a failed module is identified, or is desired for upgrade, then in operation  420 , the electrical wiring is decoupled, and in operation  422 , the support structure  200  is detached from the building  100 -A. This step includes removal of the ridge shingles  119 , and sensitive equipment, e.g. optional transceiver assembly  270 . Clamping equipment in the roof space can be left in-situ for attaching a replacement module. 
         [0068]    In operation  424 , support structure  200  is raised off roof  141 , e.g. by a boom lift, and placed on transportation away from the work site. Presumably, a replacement module is available for installation afterwards, via operations  402  to  416 . Regardless, ridge shingles that were removed in operation  422  are now reinstalled to provide sealing integrity of the roof 
         [0069]    By using method  400 , the installation and removal of solar systems is accomplished quickly and efficiently. This has the benefit of proliferating usage of PV solar, with the associated environmental benefits. In the case of rental properties, the present system allows tenants to purchase/rent solar PV independently from the property owner since they can restore the property to its original condition upon departure. 
       Alternative Embodiments 
       [0070]    While the present disclosure focuses on PV solar modules, the present invention is well suited to any type of equipment mounting, including thermal solar, air-conditioning, heat pump, etc. Methods and operations described herein can be in different sequences than the exemplary ones described herein, e.g., in a different order. Thus, one or more additional new operations may be inserted within the existing operations or one or more operations may be abbreviated or eliminated, according to a given application, so long as substantially the same function, way and result is obtained 
         [0071]    Although the present embodiments have been described with reference to specific example embodiments, it will be evident that various modifications and changes may be made to these embodiments without departing from the broader spirit and scope of the various embodiments. 
         [0072]    The foregoing descriptions of specific embodiments of the present disclosure have been presented for purposes of illustration and description. They are not intended to be exhaustive or to limit the invention to the precise forms disclosed. Many modifications and variations are possible in light of the above teaching without departing from the broader spirit and scope of the various embodiments. The embodiments were chosen and described in order to explain the principles of the invention and its practical application best, to enable others skilled in the art to best utilize the invention and various embodiments with various modifications as are suited to the particular use contemplated. It is intended that the scope of the invention be defined by the Claims appended hereto and their equivalents. 
         [0073]    References to methods, operations, processes, systems, and apparatuses disclosed herein, e.g., the transceiver and power electronics power conditioning, that are implementable in any means for achieving various aspects, and may be executed in a form of a machine-readable medium, e.g., computer readable medium, embodying a set of instructions that, when executed by a machine such as a processor in a computer, server, etc. cause the machine to perform any of the operations or functions disclosed herein. Functions or operations may include receiving, transmitting, transceiving, communicating, altering, adjusting, and the like. The term “machine-readable” medium includes any medium that is capable of storing, encoding, and/or carrying a set of instructions for execution by the computer or machine and that causes the computer or machine to perform any one or more of the methodologies of the various embodiments. The “machine-readable medium” shall accordingly include any type of non-transitory tangible medium whether optical, electrical, magnetic, etc. The present disclosure is capable of implementing methods and processes described herein using transitory signals as well, e.g., electrical, optical, and other signals in any format and protocol that convey the instructions, algorithms, etc. to implement the present processes and methods. 
         [0074]    Exemplary computing systems for executing instructions described herein include components such as one or more processors for processing data and instructions, coupled to memory for storing information, data, and instructions, where the memory can be computer usable volatile/non-volatile memory. Computing system also includes optional inputs, such as alphanumeric input device including alphanumeric and function keys, or cursor control device for communicating user input information and command selections to processor, an optional display device coupled to bus for displaying information, an optional input/output (I/O) device for coupling system with external entities, such as a modem for enabling wired or wireless communications between system and an external network such as, but not limited to, the Internet. Coupling of components can be accomplished by any method that communicates information, e.g., wired or wireless connections, electrical or optical, address/data bus or lines, etc. 
         [0075]    The present technology may be described in the general context of computer-executable instructions, such as program modules, being executed by a computer. Generally, program modules include routines, programs, objects, components, data structures, etc., that perform particular tasks or implement particular abstract data types. The present technology may also be practiced in distributed computing environments where tasks are performed by remote processing devices that are linked through a communications network. In a distributed computing environment, program modules may be located in both local and remote computer-storage media including memory-storage devices.