Abstract:
A mounting system for a solar array can include a plurality of couplers that are designed to engage and disengage all modules without the use of rails that are greater than the maximum dimension of a solar module. The couplers can be configured to cooperate with height adjuster mechanisms. Additionally, the couplers can be configured to accommodate the engagement and disengagement of solar modules without the need to loosen or remove fasteners, for example, through a hook and tilt movement.

Description:
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTIONS 
       [0001]    1. Field of the Inventions 
         [0002]    Embodiments of the subject matter described herein relate generally to devices and systems from mounting solar modules to fixed surfaces such as roofs. 
         [0003]    2. Description of the Related Art 
         [0004]    Solar power has long been viewed as an important alternative energy source. To this end, substantial efforts and investments have been made to develop and improve upon solar energy collection technology. Of particular interest are residential-, industrial- and commercial-type applications in which relatively significant amounts of solar energy can be collected and utilized in supplementing or satisfying power needs. One way of implementing solar energy collection technology is by assembling an array of multiple solar modules. 
         [0005]    One type of solar energy system is a solar photovoltaic system. Solar photovoltaic systems (“photovoltaic systems”) can employ solar panels made of silicon or other materials (e.g., III-V cells such as GaAs) to convert sunlight into electricity. Photovoltaic systems typically include a plurality of photovoltaic (PV) modules (or “solar tiles”) interconnected with wiring to one or more appropriate electrical components (e.g., switches, inverters, junction boxes, etc.). 
         [0006]    A typical conventional PV module includes a PV laminate or panel having an assembly of crystalline or amorphous semiconductor devices (“PV cells”) electrically interconnected and encapsulated within a weather-proof barrier. One or more electrical conductors are housed inside the PV laminate through which the solar-generated current is conducted. 
         [0007]    Regardless of an exact construction of the PV laminate, most PV applications entail placing an array of solar modules at the installation site in a location where sunlight is readily present. This is especially true for residential, commercial or industrial applications in which multiple solar modules are desirable for generating substantial amounts of energy, with the rooftop of the structure providing a convenient surface at which the solar modules can be placed. 
         [0008]    As a point of reference, many commercial buildings have large, flat roofs that are inherently conducive to placement of a solar module array, and are the most efficient use of existing space. By contrast, many residential roofs may be sloped or angled such that placement of a solar module may be more difficult due to gravitational forces imposed on the angled modules. While rooftop installation is thus highly variable, it can be important to ensure that the array of solar modules is reliably and stably anchored to the roof, whether the roof is an angled or flat roof. Moreover, it can be important to ensure that a user can easily, effectively, and rapidly mount one or more solar module(s) to the roof. 
       SUMMARY 
       [0009]    An aspect of at least one of the embodiments disclosed herein includes the realization that certain known mounting systems for mounting solar modules to fixed surfaces such as roofs include excessive components that can be either reduced or eliminated and can require excessive labor for removing and replacing modules. For example, one known solar module mounting system is commercially available from Zep Solar. The Zep Solar system from mounting photovoltaic modules to a fixed surface such as a roof include three unique parts. 
         [0010]    Firstly, the Zep Solar system includes splicing interlocks which are used to connect the frames of two adjacent modules together. A separate leveling foot is used only in locations where the leveling foot can be attached directly to frame of a module and where it is necessary to include a roof anchor. A third device known as a “hybrid interlock”, includes both splicing/interlock features for attaching two adjacent modules to each other as well as a connection for anchoring the splicing device to the roof. 
         [0011]    Other known solar module mounting systems include rails that are initially mounted directly to a roof. The solar modules are then engaged with the rails and then slid laterally into their final desired location. Once in a desired location, the modules are fixed to the rails. 
         [0012]    Occasionally, a solar module that is surrounded by other solar modules in an array, is damaged and thus requires replacement. Solar mounting systems in which the solar modules must be slid along rails present a significant difficulty when the need arises for replacing a solar module. In this situation, the rail-mounted array must be partially disassembled, i.e., the undamaged solar modules adjacent to the damaged module must be slid off of the rail first before the damaged module can be removed. The replacement module is then slid along the rails back into place. In a large array, this method of repair can require the removal of many solar modules. Thus, a solar module mounting system that can allow individual solar modules to be removed from an array, without removing adjacent modules can provide a significant labor savings. 
         [0013]    The Zep Solar mounting system noted above, also suffers from difficulties. For example, the Zep Solar splice device includes a rotatable fastener that extends and rotates about an axis that is generally horizontal. The rotatable fastener includes an engagement face for engaging a tool that also must faces horizontally. Thus, in order to remove a solar module that is surrounded by other solar modules, a special tool is needed that includes a fastener engaging portion that extends at a right angle. The tool must be inserted between two adjacent solar modules and moved so that the engagement portion reaches the engagement face of the rotatable fastener. This procedure can be particularly difficult when a worker is attempting to reach solar module that is surrounded by other modules, and thus in a position in which it is difficult to achieve the alignment of the special tool and the engagement face of the rotatable fastener. 
         [0014]    Thus, in accordance with at least some embodiments disclosed herein, a mounting system for mounting solar modules to a fixed structure such as a roof can be configured to allow solar modules to be removed from an array of solar modules without the need to slide adjacent solar modules off of rails. Further benefits can be achieved by configuring a solar module mounting system such that the engagement portions of the mounting system can be removed by engaging upwardly facing fasteners. Additionally, further benefits can be achieved by configuring a solar module mounting system such that vertical adjustments can be made to the mounting height of solar modules by engaging adjustment mechanism with an upwardly facing engagement portion. 
         [0015]    In accordance with at least one embodiment, a height-adjustable roof anchor for solar modules can comprise a base having a hole therein, the hole comprising an inner wall. A height adjustment member can have an upper portion configured to engage at least one solar module, the height adjustment member extending from the hole of the base and upwardly away from the base, the height adjustment member having an annular groove formed around the circumference of the rod, the annular groove positioned within the hole. A locking portion can engage the annular groove so as to retain the height adjustment member in the hole and allow the height adjustment member to rotate about a rotational axis, wherein the height adjustment member is configured to adjust a height of the at least one solar module during rotation about the rotational axis. 
         [0016]    In another embodiment, a method can be provided for assembling a height-adjustable roof anchor for solar modules which includes a base having a hole therein, the hole comprising an inner wall and a height adjustment member having an annular groove formed around a circumference of the height adjustment member. The method can comprise inserting the height adjustment member in the hole such that the annular groove is positioned within the hole and positioning a locking portion so as to extend into the annular groove. 
         [0017]    In accordance with another embodiment, a solar array can comprise a plurality of solar modules, each solar module having at least four sides and a frame extending around the four sides of each solar module. The plurality of braces supporting at least one side of one of the frames can be shorter than twice a length of one of the sides of one of the frames. Additionally, a plurality of roof anchors can be configured to be mounted to a roof, each roof anchor coupled to one of the plurality of braces. 
         [0018]    In another embodiment, a method of assembling a solar array can comprise mounting a plurality of roof anchors to a roof. The method can also include coupling a brace to each roof anchor, positioning an edge of a solar module on each brace, and swinging the solar module downward to engage the end of the solar module with the brace. 
         [0019]    In another embodiment, a kit for assembling a solar array can include a plurality of roof anchors configured to be coupled to a roof. The kit can also include a plurality of braces, each brace configured to support one or more frames of a solar module and configured to couple to one of the plurality of roof anchors, each brace being shorter than twice a length of a side of one of the frames. 
         [0020]    In accordance with an embodiment, a solar array can comprise a plurality of solar modules, each solar module having at least four sides and comprising a solar module frame extending around at least a portion of the periphery of the solar module. At least a first brace member can have a first support surface extending below at least a first solar module frame of the first solar module. At least a second brace member can have a second support surface extending over the first solar module frame. A first connector can connect the first brace member to the second brace member such that the first solar module is captured between the first and second support surfaces. 
         [0021]    In accordance with another embodiment, a solar array can comprise at least first, second, third, fourth, and fifth solar modules, each solar module having at least four sides, wherein the first, second, third, and fourth solar modules are respectively disposed adjacent to the four sides of the fifth solar module. Additionally, the array can include braces for removal of the bracing the juxtaposed sides of the solar modules to each other so that the fifth solar module can be disconnected from the first, second, third, and fourth solar modules and lifted upwardly without the need to slide the fifth solar module laterally. 
         [0022]    In accordance with another embodiment, a brace for connecting solar modules can comprise a body member having first and second sides spaced from each other, a first lip extending outwardly from and along the first side of the body and configured to extend below a frame of a first solar module disposed adjacent to the first side and a second lip extending outwardly from and along a second side of the body and configured to extend below a frame to a second solar module disposed adjacent to the second side. The brace can also include at least a first top member configured to be connected to the body member and having a first engagement portion extending outwardly from and along a first side of the top member, the first engagement portion configured to engage in upwardly extending ridge of a first solar module frame, and a second engagement portion extending outwardly from and along a second side of the top member, the second engagement portion configured to engage in upwardly extending ridge of a second solar module disposed adjacent to the first solar module. A connector can be configured to connect the first top member to the body member so as to press the frames of the two adjacent solar modules disposed along the first and second sides of the body member between the lips of the body member and the engagement portions of the top member. 
     
    
     
       BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS 
         [0023]      FIG. 1A  is a perspective view of a solar power array including a plurality of solar modules. 
           [0024]      FIG. 1B  is a schematic diagram of an optional electrical system that can be connected to the array of  FIG. 1A . 
           [0025]      FIG. 1C  is an enlarged sectional view showing a typical cross section of the frame of each of the plurality of solar modules. 
           [0026]      FIG. 2A  is a perspective view of a first embodiment of a solar module coupler and a detachable height adjustment device. 
           [0027]      FIG. 2B  is an exploded view of the coupler and detachable height adjustment device of  FIG. 2A . 
           [0028]      FIG. 2C  is a bottom perspective, exploded view of the coupler of  FIG. 2B . 
           [0029]      FIG. 2D  is a side elevational view of the coupler and height adjustment device of  FIG. 2A  connecting two solar modules to each other. 
           [0030]      FIG. 2E  is a side elevational view of the coupler connected to one solar module and a second solar module tilted relative to the coupler. 
           [0031]      FIG. 2F  is a side elevational view of the arrangement shown in  FIG. 2E , with one solar module engaging a hook portion of the coupler and being tilted into an engagement position. 
           [0032]      FIG. 2G  is a perspective view of the coupler of  FIG. 2A  connecting four solar modules together at their corners. 
           [0033]      FIG. 2H  is a perspective view of an array of solar modules with one solar module removed. 
           [0034]      FIG. 3  is a perspective view of a second embodiment of the coupler of  FIG. 2A . 
           [0035]      FIG. 4A  is a perspective view of a third embodiment of the coupler of  FIG. 2A . 
           [0036]      FIG. 4B  is an exploded perspective view of the coupler of  FIG. 4A . 
       
    
    
     DETAILED DESCRIPTION 
       [0037]    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 preceding technical field, background, brief summary or the following detailed description. 
         [0038]    “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. 
         [0039]    “Adjust”—Some elements, components, and/or features are described as being adjustable or adjusted. As used herein, unless expressly stated otherwise, “adjust” means to position, modify, alter, or dispose an element or component or portion thereof as suitable to the circumstance and embodiment. In certain cases, the element or component, or portion thereof, can remain in an unchanged position, state, and/or condition as a result of adjustment, if appropriate or desirable for the embodiment under the circumstances. In some cases, the element or component can be altered, changed, or modified to a new position, state, and/or condition as a result of adjustment, if appropriate or desired 
         [0040]    In addition, certain terminology may also 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”, and “side” 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. 
         [0041]    The inventions disclosed herein are often described in the context of photovoltaic arrays and modules. However, these inventions can be used in other contexts as well, such as concentrated PV systems, thermal solar systems, etc. 
         [0042]      FIGS. 1A and 1B  illustrate a solar power system  10  including a solar array  11  having a plurality of solar modules  12 . Each solar module  12  can include a laminate  14  supported by a frame  13 . In some embodiments, the solar modules  12  can be the same as or similar to the modules disclosed in U.S. Patent Publication No. 2009/0320908, which is incorporated by reference herein in its entirety for all purposes. 
         [0043]    With reference to  FIG. 1B , the solar power system  10  can be incorporated into 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 are hereby expressly incorporated by reference in its entirety for all purposes. 
         [0044]    With continued reference to  FIGS. 1A and 1C , each laminate  14  can include an array of solar cells, such as PV cells, configured to convert light into electricity. The frame  13  can provide structural support for the corresponding laminate  14  around the peripheral edges of the laminate  14 . In some embodiments, the frame  13  can be a separate component that is coupled to the laminate  14 . 
         [0045]    The cross section of  FIG. 1C  illustrates the typical cross section of the peripheral members forming the frame  13 . Each of the members forming the frames  13  can be formed of longitudinally extending the frame members, each having the cross section illustrated in  FIG. 1C , and joined at the corners using 45 degree cuts. However, other techniques can also be used. 
         [0046]    In the illustrated embodiment, the frame  13  includes a first outer member  16  which extends generally perpendicular to the laminate  14 . The outer member  16  includes an upwardly projecting ridge  18  and a downwardly projecting ridge  20 . In the illustrated embodiment, the upper protrusion  18  has a width W. 
         [0047]    The outer member  16  includes an outwardly facing surface  22  which generally forms the lateral, outwardly facing surface of the module  12 . Projecting from the inner surface  24  of the outer member  16 , the frame  13  can include an upper sealing ledge  26  and a lower sealing ledge  28 . The upper and lower ledges  26 ,  28  are spaced apart such that the laminate  14  can fit therebetween. Optionally, various sealing techniques can be used to seal the edge of the laminate  14  between the upper and lower ledges  28 . 
         [0048]    In the illustrated embodiment, the lower ledge  28  forms part of a stiffening assembly  30  which also extends from the inner surface  24  of the outer member  16 . The size and shape of the stiffening assembly  30  can be chosen to provide the desired stiffness of the frame  13 . In the illustrated embodiment, the stiffening assembly  30  includes a rectangular tubular configuration. However, other shapes can also be used. 
         [0049]    The frame  13 , along with the components noted above, can be formed as a straight monolithic sections. For example, the frame pieces  13  can be extruded from aluminum, other metals or molded from plastic, or other materials. In some embodiments, the frame  13  is made from aluminum. Other configurations and dimensions can also be used. 
         [0050]    With reference to  FIG. 1A , the array  11  includes modules  12  mounted to each other and, collectively, to a roof structure (not shown) with a plurality of brace assemblies  50 . Some of the brace assemblies  50  include optional height adjustment devices  52 . 
         [0051]    With reference to  FIG. 2A , the brace assembly  50  can include a lower portion  54  and an upper portion  56 . The lower and upper portions  54 ,  56  can be configured to capture a portion of the frames  13 . 
         [0052]    In some embodiments, the lower portion  54  can include a central body portion  56 . In the illustrated embodiment, the central body portion  56  is in the configuration of a box beam that extends in a generally longitudinal direction. At a lower edge of the central body portion  56 , the lower portion  54  can include a first lip  58  extending outwardly from and along a lower edge of the main body portion  56 . 
         [0053]    Optionally, the lower portion  54  can include a second lip  60  extending outwardly from and generally along a lower edge of the central body portion  56  on a side opposite from the first lip  58 . The first and second lips  58 ,  60  are sized and configured to support a portion of the frame  13 . 
         [0054]    For example, in some embodiments, the first and second lips  58 ,  60  are sized to support the lower ridge  20  ( FIG. 1C ) of two juxtaposed frames  13 . Optionally, in some embodiments, the first and second lips  58 ,  60  include retention ridges  62 ,  64  that are sized and configured to help retain the lower protrusion  20 , for example, by providing for a snap-fit engagement of the frame  13 . The engagement of the frame  13  with the ridges  62 ,  64  is described in greater detail below with reference to  FIGS. 2D-2F . 
         [0055]    The upper portion  56  of the coupling member  50  can be formed in one or more pieces. In the illustrated embodiment, the upper portion is formed from a first portion  70  and a second portion  72 . The first and second portions  70 ,  72  have essentially the same configuration and shape except that they are mirror images of one another. Thus, only the first portion  70  is described in detail below, with the understanding that the portions of the second portion  72  which are not expressly described below, are essentially the same as the corresponding components of the first portion  70 , except in a mirror image orientation. 
         [0056]    With continued reference to  FIGS. 2A and 2B , the first portion  70  includes a central elongated portion  74  which extends general longitudinally and parallel to the portion  56  of the lower portion  54 . Optionally, a lower surface  76  can include ridges complimentary to the ridges of the upper surface  65  of the lower portion  54 . In the illustrated embodiment, the ridges on both the upper surface  65  and the lower surface  76  extend generally longitudinally along the coupling member  50 . As such, wherein at least one of the upper surface  65  and the lower surface  76  includes ridges, the engagement and electrical coupling between the upper portion  56  and the lower portion  54  is further ensured thereby ensuring reliable electrical grounding between the upper portion  56  and the lower portion  54 . However, other configurations can also be used. 
         [0057]    The first portion  74  also includes a first lip  80  extending outwardly from and along an upper edge of the first portion  74  and a second lip  82  extending outwardly from and generally along an upper edge of the first portion  74 . The first lip  80  is configured to cooperate with the first lip  58  of the lower portion  54  to capture a portion of a frame  13  there between. 
         [0058]    In the illustrated embodiment, the first and second lips  80 ,  82  are generally hook shaped, extending first, outwardly from the first portion  74 , then downwardly toward the lower portion  54 . As such, the first and second lips  80 ,  82  can provide a further advantage in simplifying a method for connecting a frame  13  to the coupling device  50 , described in greater detail below with reference to  FIGS. 2D-2F . 
         [0059]    The first portion  74  can also include notches  84 ,  86  in the first and second lips  80 ,  82 , respectively. The notches  84 ,  86  can have a width  88  that is at least as wide as the width W of the upper ridge  18  of the frame  13  ( FIG. 1C ). As such, the coupler  50  can be connected to a frame  13  at a corner, wherein one part of the frame  16  extends perpendicular to the coupler  50 , and another side where the frame extends parallel to the coupler  50 . 
         [0060]    Optionally, the upper portion  56  can include centrally positioned notches  90 ,  92  on the first and second lips  80 ,  82 . In the illustrated embodiment, the notches  90 ,  92  have a width  94  that is greater than the width  88 . 
         [0061]    In some embodiments, the width  94  can be about the same size as or greater than a thickness  96  of the central portion  56  plus two times the width W of the upper ridge  18  ( FIG. 1C ). Sized as such, the notch  94  can allow more flexibility in the placement of the coupler  50 , and in particular, can allow the coupler  50  to be used in a position attaching the corners of two modules  12  and straddling the corner. This arrangement is described in greater detail below with reference to  FIG. 2G . 
         [0062]    With continued reference to  FIG. 2B , each of the first and second portions  80 ,  72  can be attached to the lower portion  54  in any known manner. In the illustrated embodiment, threaded fasteners  98  extend through apertures  100  to secure the first and second portion  70 ,  72  to the lower portion  54 . 
         [0063]    Optionally, the upper portion  56  can include a height adjustment aperture  102 . In the illustrated embodiment, because the upper portion  56  is formed of two portions  70 ,  72 , each of the first and second portions  70 ,  72  form approximately half of the aperture  102 . However, other configurations can also be used. 
         [0064]    The height adjustment aperture  102  can be size to accommodate the insertion of a tool, from a position above the coupler  50 , and down into the interior of the coupler  50 , to engage the height adjustment device  52 . 
         [0065]    The height adjustment device  52  can include a base portion  110 , a rotatable height adjuster  112  which cooperates with a fixed threaded member  114  which can be fixed to the coupler  50 . The base portion  110  can be formed in any configuration designed for a fixed connection to a structure such as a roof. In some embodiments, the base portion  110  can be configured to be connectible to a roof stud, or other structural member, with a threaded fastener such as a lag screw or the like. 
         [0066]    In the illustrated embodiment, the base portion includes a mounting plate portion  116  with an elongated slot  118 . The elongated slot  118  is preferably sized to receive an appropriately sized lag screw, designed for the engagement of a roof structure and/or a roofing stud. The base portion  110  can also include a receiver portion  120  for engagement with the rotatable adjuster  112 . 
         [0067]    In the illustrated embodiment, the receiver portion  120  is generally block shaped with an upper aperture  122 . The rotatable adjuster  112  can include a threaded body portion  130 , an upwardly facing engagement surface  132 , and a neck portion  134 . The neck portion  134  can be in the form of an annular groove disposed on the outer surface of the rotatable adjuster  112 . 
         [0068]    In some embodiments, the rotatable adjuster  112  can be swaged into the block portion  120 . For example, the rotatable adjuster  112  can be inserted through the aperture  122  into the block  120 . Using an appropriate swaging technique, a portion of the block  120  can be pressed inwardly such that an inner wall of the aperture  122  extends into the necked portion  134 , thereby trapping the rotatable adjuster  112  within the block  120 , but allowing the rotatable adjuster  112  to freely rotate relative to the base  110 . In some embodiments, the base portion and the block portion  120  can be made from aluminum, the swaging of which is well known in the art. 
         [0069]    In the illustrated embodiment, the engagement surface  132  is in the form of a female allen wrench head. However, other engagement surfaces can also be used. 
         [0070]    With the rotatable adjuster  112  mounted as such, the threads of the rotatable adjuster  112  can cooperate with internal threads on the coupler  50 , so as to allow the coupler  50  to be moved upward and downwardly relative to the base  110 . In some embodiments, as noted above, an internal thread member  114  can be directly formed in the lower portion  54 . 
         [0071]    With reference to  FIG. 2C , the internal thread member  114  can extend through an aperture  140  extending through the lower portion  54 . Optionally, the lower portion  54  can include an anti-rotation recess  142  configured to cooperate with a portion of the internal thread member  114  such that the thread member  114  can be fixed relative to lower portion  54 . In some embodiments, the internal threaded member  114  can include an anti-rotation aperture  144  configured to receive a fastener (not shown) extending through the aperture  144  and into the anti-rotation recess  142  so as to prevent any relative rotation between threaded member  114  and the lower portion  54 . As such, when the rotatable adjuster  112  is rotated relative to the lower portion  54 , and thus relative to the internal thread member  114 , the rotatable adjuster  112  operates as a jack screw, as the rotatable adjuster  112  is rotated clockwise or counter clockwise. Other configurations can also be used. 
         [0072]    In some embodiments, the threaded sleeve can also include a feature (not shown) that allows the threaded sleeve to be snapped into the base, but that will prevent the threaded sleeve from being removed unintentionally, such as by wind forces. The feature can be a spring-loaded detent, barb formed in the sleeve, or any other suitable mechanism. 
         [0073]    Optionally, with reference to  FIG. 2C , the first and second lips  80 ,  82  can optionally include one or more ridges, teeth, or spikes on the distal end thereof. In the illustrated embodiment, the first and second lips  80 ,  82  include a sharpened edge  130 ,  132  so that when they are pressed into engagement with a frame  13 , the sharpened edges  130 ,  132  penetrate the outermost surface of the frame  13 , to thereby provide better electrical contact with the frame  13 . For example, in some embodiments, the frame  13  can be aluminum with a anodized outer coating. As such, the sharpened edges  130 ,  132  can help pierce the outermost anodizing of the frame  13 , and thereby provide better electrical contact between the coupler  50  and the frame  13 . Further, the sharpened edges  130 ,  132  can also be further beneficial where the coupler  50  is made from a different material than the frame  13 , for example, but without limitation, where the coupler  50  is made from stainless steel and the frame  13  is made from aluminum. 
         [0074]    With continued reference to Figures D, E and F, the above configuration can accommodate two different methods for attaching coupler  50  to a module  12 . Firstly, as is apparent from the above description, the upper portion  56  of a coupler  50  can be removed, the frame of the module can be placed such that the upper ridge  18  of a frame engages the hook shaped lip  80  with the lower protrusion  20  of the frame supported by the lower lip  58 . The upper portion  56  can be secured to the lower portion  54  of the coupler with the threaded fasteners  98 . 
         [0075]    Additionally, the above configuration of the coupler also allows a module  12  to be connected to the coupler  50  by a “hook and swing motion.” For example, as shown in  FIG. 2D , the coupler is fully assembled with the upper portion  56  attached to the lower portion  54 . A solar module  12 A is illustrated in the position in which it is tilted relative to coupler  50 . The module  12 A can be manually moved into a position in which the upper protrusion  18  is engaged with the hook shaped lip  82 . Then, the module  12 A can be tilted downwardly, in the direction of arrow T until the module  12 A reaches the orientation illustrated in  FIG. 2F . 
         [0076]    As noted above, the lip  60  can include a ridge  64  configured to cooperate with the lower protrusion  20  of the frame  13  so as to provide a snap fit. Those of ordinary skill in the art fully understand how to size and configure the lips  60 ,  82  and the ridge  64  to provide such a snap fit. 
         [0077]    For example, the minimum distance between the uppermost portion of the ridge  64  and the uppermost portion of the inner surface of the hook shaped lip  82  can be slightly closer than the overall vertical Height of the outer portion  16  of the frame  13 . As such, as the module  12 A is tilted in the direction indicated in  FIG. 2E , and the lower protrusion  20  reaches the ridge  64 , the inherent elasticity of the coupler  50  and in particular the hook shaped lip  82  and the lip  60  can allow the lips  82 ,  60  to slightly spread apart as the lower protrusion  20  passes over the ridge  64 , then due to their elasticity, snap back to their original spacing, thereby trapping the outer member  16  of the frame  13  in the position illustrated in  FIG. 2F . Similarly, the lips  58 ,  80  and ridge  62  can be configured in essentially the same manner such that solar modules  12 ,  12 A can be attached to both sides of the coupler  50  without the need for moving the lips  80 ,  82  relative to the lower lips  58 ,  60 . 
         [0078]    With continued reference to  FIG. 2F , where a coupler  50  is used to connect two adjacent solar modules  12 ,  12 A, the solar modules  12 ,  12 A are spaced apart such that the inwardly facing surfaces of their respective upper ridges  18  as defined by the width  200 . The width  200 , in the illustrated configuration, is approximately the width  96  of the central portion of the coupler  50  plus two times the width W of the outer portion  16  of the frames  13 . This spacing is about the same as or less than the width  94  of the notch  92  ( FIG. 2A ) described above. 
         [0079]    More particularly, with reference to  FIG. 2G , when a coupler  50  is used to connect two or more modules at a corner, the width  94  of the notch  92  allows the notch  92  to straddle the spaced apart upper ridges  18  of two adjacent modules  12 . Note that the laminates  14  of the solar modules illustrated in  FIG. 2G  have been removed for purposes of illustration. Additionally, as also noted above, the width  88  of the notches  86  also allow the coupler  50  to be positioned near a corner of a module  12 , but not straddling the spacing between two adjacent modules  12 . Rather, the notches  86  could be aligned with single upper ridge  18  of a frame  13 . 
         [0080]    With reference to  FIG. 2H , the couplers  50  can accommodate further advantageous methods for removing and reinstalling a solar module  12  from an array of solar modules. As shown in  FIG. 2H , the upper portions  56  of two couplers  50  have been removed and the module  12  ( FIG. 1A ) has been removed by lifting and tilting the module  12  out of the fully assembled couplers  50 B. 
         [0081]    In order to reinstall another solar module into the original placement of the solar module  12 , one edge of the solar module  12  can be lowered into position, into the orientation illustrated in  FIG. 2E , such that in upper protrusion  18  of the frame  13  of the solar module  12  engages the hook shaped lip  82  of the couplers  50 B. As the module  12  is tilted into place, the lower protrusion  20  can engage with the ridge  64  of the couplers  50 B. Similarly, on the opposite edge of the module  12 , the lower protrusion  20  eventually comes to rest on the first lip  58  of the couplers  50 A. The lowering of the solar module  12  can be accomplished using suction cups (not shown) temporarily attached to the upper surface of the laminate  14 , or other techniques. After the module  12 A has been lowered into position, the upper portions  56  of the couplers  50 A can be replaced, thereby returning the array  11  into the state illustrated in  FIG. 1A . 
         [0082]    Further, when installing and/or servicing the array  11 , all of the couplers,  50 ,  50 A,  50 B, which are attached to height adjustment mechanisms, can all be adjusted to desired heights by inserting, directly from above, an engagement tool configured to engage the engagement surface  132  ( FIG. 2B ) of the rotatable height adjuster  112  so as to raise or lower each of the modules  12 , to the desired height. As such, the heights of the various modules  12  of the array  12  can be easily adjusted. 
         [0083]      FIG. 3  illustrates another embodiment of the coupler  50 , identified by the reference numeral  1050 . The components of the coupler  1050  that are the same or similar to the coupler  50 , are identified with the same reference numeral, except that 1000 has been added thereto. 
         [0084]    As shown in  FIG. 3 , the coupler  1050  can include an upper portion  1056  that is made from a single piece instead of two separate pieces  70 ,  72  of the coupler  50 . The remaining components of the coupler  1050  as well as the use and operation, are essentially the same as the coupler  50 . 
         [0085]    In yet another alternative embodiment, the coupler  1050  can be formed such that the upper portion  1056  is permanently affixed to the lower portion  1054 . For example, the coupler  1050  could be made from a single piece of material into a monolific body. Alternatively, the coupler  1050  could be made from two separate pieces such as the lower and upper portions  1054 ,  1056 , but permanently affixed to one another. 
         [0086]    Such an integrated design for the coupler  1050  can further reduce costs of such a system, by reducing the part counts, and reduce manufacturing costs. In use, such as single piece coupler  1050  can be connected to a fixed solar module by hooking the lip  1080  to an upper ridge  18  of a solar module  12 , then tilting the coupler  1050  relative to the solar module  12 , until the lower protrusion  20  of the frame  13  of the solar module engages the ridge  1062 . Then, with the coupler  1050  fit onto one solar module  12 , an adjacent solar module  12  can be connected to the coupler  1050  by hooking the corresponding upper protrusion  18  of a solar module  12  into the hook shaped lip  1082  of the coupler  1050 , then tilting the solar module  12  downwardly, in the direction of RT of  FIG. 2E , until the lower protrusion  20  engages the ridge  64  and is oriented in the position shown in  FIG. 2F . As such, such a single piece coupler  1050  can be used without removing the upper portion  156 . 
         [0087]      FIG. 4A  illustrates another embodiment of the coupler  50 , identified by the reference numeral  2050 . The components of the coupler  2050  that are the same or similar to the couplers  50  or  2050  are identified with the same reference numeral, except that 2000 has been added thereto. 
         [0088]    With reference to  FIGS. 4A and 4B , the coupler  2050  can include a lower portion  2054  and an upper portion  2056 . In the illustrated embodiment, the lower portion  2054  includes the lip  82  and an upper mounting surface  2402  for receiving the upper portion  2056 . Additionally, similarly to the embodiments of  FIGS. 2B and 3 , the upper portion  2056  can be made from one or more parts. 
         [0089]    The upper portion  2056  can include a lip only on one side, in the illustrated embodiment, the lip  2080 . The coupler  2050  can be engaged with a solar module  12  by hooking and tilting the coupler relative to solar module  12  as described above with reference to  FIG. 3 . Additionally, the coupler  2050  can be connected to and removed from engagement with solar modules by removing the fasteners  98  and the upper portion  2056 . As such, the upper portion  2056  can be removed while the other side of the coupler  2050 , including the upper lip  82  can remain engaged with a solar module, thereby maintaining the coupler  2050  in its position. 
         [0090]    This can provide a further advantage when using the coupler  2050  in an array  11 , and in particular, when removing and reinstalling the solar module from an array in which the solar module is surrounded by other modules. Thus, when the upper portion  2056  is removed, so as to allow a solar module to be removed from the array, the coupler  2050  can remain securely engaged with an adjacent solar module because the lip  2082  remains fixed relative to the lower lip  2060 . Thus, the solar module  12  which is removed and/or reinstalled can rest against the lower lips  2058  of the coupler  2050 , during the reinstallation process. 
         [0091]    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.