Patent Publication Number: US-10312853-B2

Title: Sloped roof solar panel mounting system

Description:
CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS 
     The present application is a continuation-in-part of U.S. Nonprovisional patent application Ser. No. 15/068,370, entitled “Sloped Roof Solar Panel Mounting System”, filed on Mar. 11, 2016, which claims priority to U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 62/131,743, entitled “Sloped Roof Solar Panel Mounting System”, filed on Mar. 11, 2015, and to U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 62/192,529, entitled “Sloped Roof Solar Panel Mounting System”, filed on Jul. 14, 2015, the disclosure of each of which is hereby incorporated by reference as if set forth in their entirety herein. 
    
    
     STATEMENT REGARDING FEDERALLY SPONSORED RESEARCH OR DEVELOPMENT 
     Not Applicable. 
     NAMES OF THE PARTIES TO A JOINT RESEARCH AGREEMENT 
     Not Applicable. 
     INCORPORATION BY REFERENCE OF MATERIAL SUBMITTED ON A COMPACT DISK 
     Not Applicable. 
     BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION 
     1. Field of the Invention 
     The field of the present invention generally relates to mounting systems and, more particularly, to support assemblies and mounting systems for mounting photovoltaic modules or panels on sloped support surfaces such as, for example, sloped building rooftops, or the like. 
     2. Background 
     There is a need for a sloped roof solar panel mounting system that attaches to rafters or roof supporting members, avoids using rails or struts, and is universal. 
     Solar panels must be secured to the roof and underlying structure to disperse wind and snow loads into the building structure. Although some mounting systems that avoid using rails attach to the roof decking, they do not attach to the roof rafters because the spacing of rafters is different than the length of modules. 
     Rails and struts are long extrusions or roll-formed strips that must be cut to length, use excess material, are costly to manufacture and high in shipping cost. Therefore, a mounting system avoiding the use of rails or struts is desired. 
     There is a need for the system to mount to any solar module on the market, giving installers the flexibility to choose the module of their choice, rather than be required to buy a module with a custom profile rail to accommodate the mounting system. 
     BRIEF SUMMARY OF EMBODIMENTS OF THE INVENTION 
     Accordingly, the present invention is directed to a sloped roof solar panel mounting system that substantially obviates one or more problems resulting from the limitations and deficiencies of the related art. 
     In accordance with one or more embodiments of the present invention, there is provided a support surface attachment device, the support surface attachment device configured to attach one or more photovoltaic modules to a support surface. The support surface attachment device includes a base assembly configured to be attached to a support surface; and a clamp assembly configured to engage one or more photovoltaic modules, the clamp assembly including a lower clamp member and an upper clamp member, the upper clamp member connected to the lower clamp member by a fastener member, the lower clamp member including one or more first teeth disposed thereon, and the upper clamp member including one or more second teeth disposed thereon, the one or more first teeth on the lower clamp member configured to engage the one or more second teeth on the upper clamp member when the fastener is being tightened so as to maintain a minimum gap between the upper clamp member and the lower clamp member for receiving one or more photovoltaic module frames of the one or more photovoltaic modules when the one or more photovoltaic modules are pivotably installed into a first side of the clamp assembly. The clamp assembly is capable of being selectively positioned along a length of the base assembly prior to being fixed in place relative to the base assembly so as to permit adjustability when the one or more photovoltaic modules are being attached to the support surface. 
     In a further embodiment of the present invention, the upper clamp member of the clamp assembly comprises one or more grooves for receiving a portion of a bonding clip for grounding the one or more photovoltaic modules. 
     In yet a further embodiment, the support surface attachment device further comprises a spring member disposed between the upper clamp member and the lower clamp member of the clamp assembly, the spring member configured to hold the clamp assembly open for facilitating the installation of the one or more photovoltaic modules into the clamp assembly, and the spring member further configured to enable the clamp assembly to be secured on the base assembly while maintaining the minimum gap between the upper clamp member and the lower clamp member. 
     In still a further embodiment, the support surface attachment device further comprises a strut nut threadingly coupled to the fastener member, the strut nut configured to fix the clamp assembly in place relative to the base assembly when the fastener member is tightened. 
     In yet a further embodiment, the fastener member comprises a visual indicator line formed on a head portion of the fastener member for indicating an orientation of the strut nut. 
     In still a further embodiment, the support surface attachment device further comprises a glider member coupling the upper and lower clamp members of the clamp assembly to the base assembly, the glider member configured to slide relative to the base assembly so as to allow the clamp assembly to be selectively positioned along the length of the base assembly prior to being fixed in place relative to the base assembly. 
     In yet a further embodiment, the glider member comprises one or more protrusions or grooves formed in an outer side of the glider member, the one or more protrusions or grooves configured to serve as a visual indicator indicating a height of the clamp assembly relative to the base assembly and/or serve as a means for holding a chalk line during an installation of the one or more photovoltaic modules. 
     In yet a further embodiment, the upper and lower clamp members of the clamp assembly are configured to rotate together relative to the glider member, and wherein an upstanding base member of the base assembly is configured to rotate relative to the support surface, whereby the rotation of the upper and lower clamp members relative to the glider member and the rotation of the upstanding base member of the base assembly relative to a flashing member of the support surface attachment device enables a lateral position of the clamp assembly to be adjusted by an installer. 
     In still a further embodiment, the lower clamp member of the clamp assembly comprises one or more ridges disposed on a bottom surface of the lower clamp member, the one or more ridges configured to increase a frictional engagement between the lower clamp member and the glider member so as resist the upper and lower clamp members of the clamp assembly from rotating relative to the glider member when the fastener member is tightened by an installer. 
     In yet a further embodiment, base assembly includes an upstanding base member, the upstanding base member comprising one or more mating grooves and one or more mating protrusions for engaging with one or more mating protrusions and one or more mating grooves of the glider member, wherein a selected engagement between the one or more mating grooves and protrusions of the upstanding base member and the one or more mating grooves and protrusions of the glider member enables the clamp assembly to be selectively positioned at a predetermined height relative to the base assembly prior to being fixed in place relative to the base assembly so as to permit vertical adjustability when the one or more photovoltaic modules are being attached to the support surface. 
     In still a further embodiment, the upper clamp member of the clamp assembly comprises a first downwardly protruding member and a second downwardly protruding member spaced apart from the first downwardly protruding member by a gap, the second downwardly protruding member being shorter in length than the first downwardly protruding member, and the second downwardly protruding member configured to provide an abutment surface for a skirt member. 
     In yet a further embodiment, the lower clamp member of the clamp assembly comprises one or more mating grooves and one or more mating protrusions for engaging with one or more mating protrusions and one or more mating grooves of a skirt member. 
     In still a further embodiment, the one or more mating protrusions on the lower clamp member are upwardly inclined so as to enable the skirt member to be inserted into the clamp assembly from above during installation, and so as to prevent the skirt member from becoming disengaged from the clamp assembly after the installation of the skirt member. 
     In yet a further embodiment, the upper clamp member of the clamp assembly comprises a pair of downwardly extending lip portions on opposite sides of a top portion of the upper clamp member, a first one of the pair of downwardly extending lip portions being longer than a second one of the pair of downwardly extending lip portions so as to facilitate the one or more photovoltaic modules being pivotably installed into the first side of the clamp assembly. 
     In still a further embodiment, the lower clamp member of the clamp assembly comprises an upwardly tapered ledge extending outwardly from the first side of the clamp assembly, the upwardly tapered ledge configured to support the one or more photovoltaic module frames of the one or more photovoltaic modules, and the upwardly tapered ledge being configured to function as a spring for applying a compressive force against the one or more photovoltaic module frames of the one or more photovoltaic modules so as to securely retain the one or more photovoltaic modules in the clamp assembly after the one or more photovoltaic modules are pivotably installed. 
     In yet a further embodiment, the base assembly includes an upstanding base member, the upstanding base member including a pair of vertically spaced-apart bottom wall portions, a first of the pair of vertically spaced-apart bottom wall portions comprising a first aperture and a second of the pair of vertically spaced-apart bottom wall portions comprising a second aperture, the first and second apertures of the upstanding base member configured to receive a raised portion of a flashing member therein so as to permit a fastener aperture disposed in the flashing member to be elevated above the support surface, thereby enabling the support surface attachment device to be more leakage resistant. 
     In yet a further embodiment, the upstanding base member of the base assembly further comprises one or more base flange portions, the one or more base flange portions having one or more mounting apertures disposed therethrough, the one or more mounting apertures configured to receive one or more respective fasteners for securing the upstanding base member to the support surface. 
     In still a further embodiment, a bottom surface of the upstanding base member comprises one or more ridges disposed thereon, the one or more ridges configured to increase a frictional engagement between the upstanding base member and the flashing member so as prevent the upstanding base member from rotating relative to the flashing member when a base fastener member is tightened by an installer. 
     In yet a further embodiment, the one or more ridges disposed on the bottom surface of the upstanding base member are additionally configured to capture and hold sealing tape when the upstanding base member is mounted directly against the support surface. 
     In still a further embodiment, a top surface of the upstanding base member comprises one or more visual installation guide marks configured to facilitate an installation of one or more rows of the one or more photovoltaic modules. 
     In yet a further embodiment, the support surface attachment device further comprises a flashing member having a fastener aperture configured to receive a base fastener member for attaching an upstanding base member of the base assembly and the flashing member to the support surface, the fastener aperture being disposed through a raised position of the flashing member so that water is prevented from passing through the fastener aperture. 
     In yet a further embodiment, the support surface attachment device further comprises a sealing washer configured to be disposed between a head of the base fastener member and a top rim of the raised position of the flashing member, the sealing washer including an upper portion formed from a first material and a lower portion formed from a second material, the first material forming the upper portion of the sealing washer restricting a deformation of the second material forming the lower portion of the sealing washer so as to prevent the sealing washer from entering the fastener aperture in the flashing member. 
     In still a further embodiment, the lower portion of the sealing washer further comprises a tapered bottom surface so as to tightly engage the top rim of the raised portion of the flashing member and to prevent the second material forming the lower portion of the sealing washer from entering the fastener aperture in the flashing member. 
     In yet a further embodiment, the raised portion of the flashing member comprises a circumferential ledge portion, wherein, when the upstanding base member of the base assembly is assembled with the flashing member, a top surface of the circumferential ledge portion of the raised portion of the flashing member is configured to regulate a height of an upper section of the raised portion of the flashing member that is disposed above the circumferential ledge portion so that a top rim of the upper section of the raised portion does not protrude substantially above a top surface of an elevated shelf of the upstanding base member. 
     In still a further embodiment, the support surface attachment device further comprises a cantilevered mounting arm coupling the clamp assembly to the base assembly, the cantilevered mounting arm configured to support the clamp assembly in a cantilevered manner from the base assembly so that the clamp assembly is capable of being horizontally offset from the base assembly, thereby allowing one or more edges of the one or more photovoltaic modules to be disposed above a region of the support surface that is unable to accommodate the base assembly. 
     In yet a further embodiment, the region of the support surface that is unable to accommodate the base assembly comprises an area at or near a roof ridge, and wherein the cantilevered mounting arm enables one or more additional photovoltaic modules to be installed proximate to the roof ridge. 
     In still a further embodiment, the support surface attachment device further comprises an electrical accessory bracket configured to mount an electrical accessory of a photovoltaic system to an upstanding base member of the base assembly, the electrical accessory bracket comprising at least one flange portion configured to attach the electrical accessory bracket to the upstanding base member, the electrical accessory bracket further comprising a bracket base portion comprising one or more mounting apertures for attaching the electrical accessory to the electrical accessory bracket. 
     In yet a further embodiment, the at least one flange portion of the electrical accessory bracket is offset from a center position of the bracket base portion in a widthwise direction of the bracket base portion so as to facilitate a connection of one or more wires to the electrical accessory without the upstanding base member of the base assembly interfering with a routing of the one or more wires. 
     In still a further embodiment, the bracket base portion of the electrical accessory bracket comprises a plurality of slots formed therein for accommodating various electrical accessories, and wherein the at least one flange portion of the electrical accessory bracket comprises at least one aperture formed therein for accommodating a grounding lug. 
     In yet a further embodiment, the support surface attachment device further comprises a conduit mounting member configured to mount electrical conduit of a photovoltaic system to an upstanding base member of the base assembly, the conduit mounting member including a securement portion comprising one or more mounting apertures for attaching the conduit mounting member to the upstanding base member, the conduit mounting member further comprising a conduit mounting portion connected to the securement portion, the conduit mounting portion comprising one or more securement apertures for attaching the electrical conduit to the conduit mounting member. 
     In accordance with one or more other embodiments of the present invention, there is provided a coupling device configured to attach one or more photovoltaic modules to one or more other photovoltaic modules. The coupling device includes a lower coupling member including at least one ledge extending outwardly from a side surface of the lower coupling member, the lower coupling member further including one or more first teeth disposed thereon; and an upper coupling member including at least one flange portion extending outwardly from the upper coupling member, the upper coupling member further including one or more second teeth disposed thereon, the upper coupling member being adjustably connected to the lower coupling member by at least one fastening device, the one or more first teeth on the lower coupling member configured to engage the one or more second teeth on the lower coupling member when the at least one fastening device is being tightened so as to maintain a minimum gap between the upper coupling member and the lower coupling member for receiving one or more photovoltaic module frames of the one or more photovoltaic modules when the one or more photovoltaic modules are pivotably installed into a first side of the clamp assembly. The one or more other photovoltaic modules are configured to be clamped between the at least one ledge of the lower coupling member and the at least one flange portion of the upper coupling member. 
     In a further embodiment of the present invention, the at least one flange portion of the upper coupling member comprises a plurality of spaced-apart apertures disposed therethrough, and wherein the at least one fastening device comprises a first and second fastening device, a first one of the plurality of spaced-apart apertures comprising a fastener hole for receiving the first fastening device, and the second one of the plurality of spaced-apart apertures comprising a fastener slot for receiving the second fastening device, the fastener slot providing clearance so as to allow the tightening of one of the first and second fastening devices prior to the tightening of the other of the first and second fastening devices. 
     In yet a further embodiment, the at least one flange portion of the upper coupling member comprises a central slot disposed between the first one of the plurality of spaced-apart apertures and the second one of the plurality of spaced-apart apertures, the central slot configured to receive a fastener member for connecting the coupling device to a glider member of a support surface attachment device so that the coupling device is capable of being used with a base assembly of the support surface attachment device for attaching the one or more photovoltaic modules to a support surface. 
     In still a further embodiment, a top surface of the at least one flange portion of the upper coupling member comprises one or more visual installation guide marks to indicate locational limits of mounting the one or more photovoltaic modules within the coupling device. 
     In yet a further embodiment, the lower coupling member comprises one or more mating grooves and one or more mating protrusions for engaging with one or more mating protrusions and one or more mating grooves of a skirt member. 
     In still a further embodiment, the one or more mating protrusions of the lower coupling member comprise a plurality of mating protrusions disposed in alternating upward and downward orientations so that the coupling device is capable of remaining in engagement with the skirt member prior to the at least one fastening device being tightened by an installer. 
     In yet a further embodiment, the lower coupling member comprises one or more water drainage troughs formed therein for draining water from the one or more photovoltaic modules. 
     In accordance with yet one or more other embodiments of the present invention, there is provided a bonding clip configured to ground one or more photovoltaic modules. The bonding clip includes a clip body portion having a first surface and a second surface disposed opposite to the first surface, the clip body portion further including a plurality of protruding members, at least one of the plurality of protruding members projecting outwardly from the first surface in a first direction, and at least another of the plurality of protruding members projecting outwardly from the second surface in a second direction, the first direction being generally opposite to the second direction; and one or more clip attachment portions connected to the clip body portion, the one or more clip attachment portions configured to attach the bonding clip to an object on which the bonding clip is mounted. 
     In a further embodiment of the present invention, the plurality of protruding members are arranged in a generally staggered pattern along a length of the clip body portion. 
     In yet a further embodiment, the clip body portion is in the form of flat plate that does not comprise any folds formed therein. 
     In still a further embodiment, the one or more clip attachment portions comprise a plurality of bent tab members, the plurality of bent tab members configured to engage with a groove in the object. 
     In yet a further embodiment, the one or more clip attachment portions comprise a pair of flange members, each of the pair of flange members being disposed at an opposite end of the clip body portion; and wherein, when the bonding clip is installed on the object, a top portion of each of the pair of flange members remains visible to an installer so that an installed condition of the bonding clip is capable of being verified by the installer. 
     In accordance with still one or more other embodiments of the present invention, there is provided a power accessory bracket configured to attach one or more power accessories of a photovoltaic system to one or more frames of one or more photovoltaic modules. The power accessory bracket includes a bracket body portion having a first side and a second side disposed opposite to the first surface; a first plurality of teeth disposed on the first side of the bracket body portion, the first plurality of teeth configured to engage the one or more frames of the one or more photovoltaic modules; and a second plurality of teeth disposed on the second side of the bracket body portion, the second plurality of teeth configured to engage one or more mounting members of the one or more power accessories. The power accessory bracket is configured to provide electrical bonding of the one or more photovoltaic modules to the one or more power accessories. 
     In a further embodiment of the present invention, at least one of the first and second pluralities of teeth extend below a bottom surface of the bracket body portion so as to provide the electrical bonding and to accommodate a plurality of different photovoltaic module flange dimensions. 
     In yet a further embodiment, the bracket body portion comprises at least one mounting aperture disposed therethrough, the at least one mounting aperture being offset from a center position of the bracket body portion in a widthwise direction of the bracket body portion so as to accommodate a plurality of different photovoltaic module flange dimensions by allowing the power accessory bracket to positioned in two different orientations. 
     In still a further embodiment, the bracket body portion comprises at least one additional aperture formed therein for accommodating one or more components of one or more power accessories. 
     In accordance with still one or more other embodiments of the present invention, there is provided a support surface attachment device, the support surface attachment device configured to attach one or more photovoltaic modules to a support surface. The support surface attachment device includes a base assembly configured to be attached to a support surface; and a clamp assembly configured to engage one or more photovoltaic modules, the clamp assembly including a lower clamp member and an upper clamp member, the upper clamp member being adjustably connected to the lower clamp member by a fastener member, the upper and lower clamp members defining a panel receiving gap therebetween, the panel receiving gap being continuously adjustable by a user within the range between approximately 32 millimeters and approximately 50 millimeters so as to accommodate any photovoltaic module thickness within the range. 
     In a further embodiment of the present invention, the clamp assembly comprises integrated grounding means, the integrated grounding means configured to provide integrated grounding between adjacent photovoltaic modules. 
     In yet a further embodiment, the integrated grounding means of the clamp assembly comprises one or more grounding protrusions or teeth. 
     In still a further embodiment, the upper clamp member of the clamp assembly comprises at least one downwardly extending portion and the lower clamp member of the clamp assembly comprises at least one upwardly extending portion, the at least one downwardly extending portion of the upper clamp member configured to engage with the at least one upwardly extending portion of the lower clamp member so as to hold open the panel receiving gap for facilitating an insertion of the one or more photovoltaic modules after the fastener member of the clamp assembly has been partially tightened. 
     In yet a further embodiment, the at least one upwardly extending portion of the lower clamp member comprises one or more outwardly extending protrusions, the one or more outwardly extending protrusions configured to facilitate the holding open of the panel receiving gap, the one or more outwardly extending protrusions further configured to be deformed and/or severed from the remainder of the upwardly extending portion of the lower clamp member when the fastener member of the clamp assembly is tightened. 
     In still a further embodiment, the at least one downwardly extending portion of the upper clamp member comprises one or more dimples formed in a side surface thereof, the one or more dimples configured to facilitate the holding open of the panel receiving gap. 
     In yet a further embodiment, the clamp assembly is capable of being rotated 360 degrees relative to the base assembly of the support surface attachment device so as to accommodate various photovoltaic module mounting arrangements. 
     In still a further embodiment, the clamp assembly is capable of being interchangeably used with or without a skirt member of a photovoltaic array. 
     In yet a further embodiment, the upper clamp member of the clamp assembly comprises at least one skirt receiving groove, the at least one skirt receiving groove configured to receive a downwardly extending edge portion of a skirt member. 
     In still a further embodiment, the fastener member is configured to secure the skirt member to the clamp assembly. 
     In accordance with yet one or more other embodiments of the present invention, there is provided a coupling device configured to attach one or more photovoltaic modules to one or more other photovoltaic modules. The coupling device includes a lower coupling member including at least one ledge extending outwardly from a side surface of the lower coupling member; and an upper coupling member including at least one flange portion extending outwardly from the upper coupling member, the upper coupling member being adjustably connected to the lower coupling member by at least one fastening device, the at least one ledge of the lower coupling member and the at least one flange portion of the upper coupling member defining a panel receiving gap therebetween, the panel receiving gap being continuously adjustable by a user within the range between approximately 32 millimeters and approximately 50 millimeters so as to accommodate any photovoltaic module thickness within the range. 
     In a further embodiment of the present invention, the coupling device further comprises integrated grounding means, the integrated grounding means configured to provide integrated grounding between adjacent photovoltaic modules. 
     In yet a further embodiment, the integrated grounding means of the coupling device comprises one or more grounding protrusions or teeth. 
     In still a further embodiment, the lower coupling member further comprises at least one drainage slot formed therethrough for draining water from the one or more photovoltaic modules. 
     In yet a further embodiment, the lower coupling member comprises one or more water drainage channels formed therein for draining water from one or more drainage weep holes of the one or more photovoltaic modules. 
     In still a further embodiment, the lower coupling member further comprises a plurality of extruded threads formed therein for threadingly engaging a plurality of external threads of the at least one fastening device. 
     In yet a further embodiment, the at least one ledge of the lower coupling member comprises a pair of ledges extending outwardly from oppositely disposed outer side surfaces of the lower coupling member, the at least one flange portion of the upper coupling member comprises a pair of flange portions extending outwardly from oppositely disposed outer side surfaces of the upper coupling member, the pair of ledges of the lower coupling member and the pair of flange portions of the upper coupling member allowing the coupling device to be rotated 180 degrees relative to the one or more photovoltaic modules so that the coupling device is capable of being interchangeably used on north and south rows of a photovoltaic array. 
     In still a further embodiment, the coupling device is capable of being interchangeably used with or without a skirt member of a photovoltaic array. 
     In yet a further embodiment, the upper coupling member of the coupling device comprises at least one skirt receiving groove, the at least one skirt receiving groove configured to receive a downwardly extending edge portion of a skirt member. 
     In accordance with still one or more other embodiments of the present invention, there is provided a mounting system for supporting a plurality of photovoltaic modules on a support surface. The mounting system includes a support surface attachment device, the support surface attachment device configured to attach one or more photovoltaic modules to a support surface, the support surface attachment device including a clamp assembly, the clamp assembly including a lower clamp member and an upper clamp member, at least one of the upper and lower clamp members including a skirt receiving groove or notch formed therein; and a skirt member, the skirt member including a downwardly extending edge portion configured to be received within the skirt receiving groove or notch of the at least one of the upper and lower clamp members, the engagement between the skirt member and the clamp assembly of the support surface attachment device being configured to allow the clamp assembly to accommodate any photovoltaic module thickness within a range between approximately 32 millimeters and approximately 50 millimeters. 
     In a further embodiment of the present invention, the skirt member comprises a curled lower edge portion, the curled lower edge portion of the skirt member being configured to receive a pin member therein for facilitating an alignment of multiple skirt sections in a photovoltaic array. 
     It is to be understood that the foregoing general description and the following detailed description of the present invention are merely exemplary and explanatory in nature. As such, the foregoing general description and the following detailed description of the invention should not be construed to limit the scope of the appended claims in any sense. 
    
    
     
       BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE SEVERAL VIEWS OF THE DRAWINGS 
       The invention will now be described, by way of example, with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which: 
         FIG. 1  is a perspective view of a support surface attachment device of a photovoltaic mounting system, according to a first embodiment of the invention, wherein the support surface attachment device is illustrated in an assembled state; 
         FIG. 2  is another perspective view of the support surface attachment device of  FIG. 1 , wherein a clamp assembly of the support surface attachment device is shown exploded from a base assembly of the support surface attachment device; 
         FIG. 3  is a perspective view of the clamp assembly of the support surface attachment device of  FIG. 1 , wherein the clamp assembly is illustrated in an assembled state; 
         FIG. 4  is another perspective view of the clamp assembly of the support surface attachment device of  FIG. 1 , wherein the components of the clamp assembly are shown exploded from one another; 
         FIG. 5  is a perspective view of a fastener member of the clamp assembly of  FIG. 3 ; 
         FIG. 6  is a perspective view of an upper clamp member of the clamp assembly of  FIG. 3 ; 
         FIG. 7  is a perspective view of a bonding clip of the clamp assembly of  FIG. 3 ; 
         FIG. 8  is a perspective view of a sleeve member of the clamp assembly of  FIG. 3 ; 
         FIG. 9  is a perspective view of a lower clamp member of the clamp assembly of  FIG. 3 ; 
         FIG. 10  is a perspective view of a washer of the clamp assembly of  FIG. 3 ; 
         FIG. 11  is a perspective view of a glider member of the clamp assembly of  FIG. 3 ; 
         FIG. 12  is a bottom perspective view of a strut nut of the clamp assembly of  FIG. 3 ; 
         FIG. 13  is a top plan view of the strut nut of  FIG. 12 ; 
         FIG. 14  is a perspective view of the base assembly of the support surface attachment device of  FIG. 1 , wherein the base assembly is illustrated in an assembled state; 
         FIG. 15  is another perspective view of the base assembly of the support surface attachment device of  FIG. 1 , wherein the components of the base assembly are shown exploded from one another; 
         FIG. 16  is a perspective view of a fastener member of the base assembly of  FIG. 14 ; 
         FIG. 17  is a perspective view of an upper sealing washer of the base assembly of  FIG. 14 ; 
         FIG. 18  is a perspective view of an upstanding base member of the base assembly of  FIG. 14 ; 
         FIG. 19  is a perspective view of a lower sealing washer of the base assembly of  FIG. 14 ; 
         FIG. 20  is a perspective view of a flashing member of the base assembly of  FIG. 14 ; 
         FIG. 21  is a perspective view of a coupling device of a photovoltaic mounting system, according to a first embodiment of the invention, wherein the coupling device is illustrated in an assembled state; 
         FIG. 22  is another perspective view of the coupling device of  FIG. 21 , wherein the components forming the coupling device are shown exploded from one another; 
         FIG. 23  is a perspective view of an upper coupling member of the coupling device of  FIG. 21 ; 
         FIG. 24  is a perspective view of a lower coupling member of the coupling device of  FIG. 21 ; 
         FIG. 25  is a perspective view of a captive nut of the coupling device of  FIG. 21 ; 
         FIG. 26  is a perspective view illustrating the support surface attachment device of  FIG. 1  together with the coupling device of  FIG. 21  and a lower skirt member connected to the support surface attachment device and the coupling device; 
         FIG. 27  is an end view of the assembly of  FIG. 26 , wherein the support surface attachment device and lower skirt member are shown; 
         FIG. 28  is a perspective view of a lower skirt member, similar to the lower skirt member illustrated in  FIG. 26 ; 
         FIG. 29  is a perspective view of a support surface attachment device of a photovoltaic mounting system, according to a second embodiment of the invention, wherein the support surface attachment device is illustrated in an assembled state; 
         FIG. 30  is a perspective view of an upper clamp member of the clamp assembly of the support surface attachment device of  FIG. 29 ; 
         FIG. 31  is a perspective view of a bonding clip of the clamp assembly of the support surface attachment device of  FIG. 29 ; 
         FIG. 32  is a perspective view of a lower clamp member of the clamp assembly of the support surface attachment device of  FIG. 29 ; 
         FIG. 33  is a perspective view of a glider member of the clamp assembly of the support surface attachment device of  FIG. 29 ; 
         FIG. 34  is a perspective view of the base assembly of the support surface attachment device of  FIG. 29 , wherein the base assembly is illustrated in an assembled state; 
         FIG. 35  is a perspective view of an upstanding base member of the base assembly of  FIG. 34 ; 
         FIG. 36  is a perspective view of a washer of the clamp assembly of the support surface attachment device of  FIG. 29 ; 
         FIG. 37  is a perspective view of a flashing member of the base assembly of  FIG. 34 ; 
         FIG. 38  is an end view of a lower skirt member, according to another embodiment of the invention; 
         FIG. 39  is an end view of a lower skirt member, similar to the lower skirt member illustrated in  FIG. 38 , according to yet another embodiment of the invention; 
         FIG. 40  is a perspective view of a coupling device of a photovoltaic mounting system, according to a second embodiment of the invention, wherein the coupling device is illustrated in an assembled state; 
         FIG. 41  is a perspective view of an upper coupling member of the coupling device of  FIG. 40 ; 
         FIG. 42  is a perspective view of a lower coupling member of the coupling device of  FIG. 40 ; 
         FIG. 43  is a perspective view of the clamp assembly of the support surface attachment device of  FIG. 29 , wherein the clamp assembly is illustrated in an assembled state; 
         FIG. 44  is an exploded view of the clamp assembly of  FIG. 43 ; 
         FIG. 45  is a perspective view of an upper clamp member of the clamp assembly of the support surface attachment device, according to an alternative embodiment of the invention; 
         FIG. 46  is a side view of the upper clamp member of  FIG. 46 ; 
         FIG. 47  is a perspective view of a bonding clip, according to an alternative embodiment of the invention; 
         FIG. 48  is a perspective view of a junction box bracket attached to a base member, according to one embodiment of the invention; 
         FIG. 49  is a perspective view of a junction box bracket kit, according to another embodiment of the invention; 
         FIG. 50  is a perspective view of the junction box bracket of the junction box bracket kit of  FIG. 49 ; 
         FIG. 51  is a perspective view of a micro-inverter mounting plate attached to the frame of a photovoltaic module by a power accessory bracket assembly, according to an embodiment of the invention; 
         FIG. 52  is a perspective view of the power accessory bracket assembly of  FIG. 51 , wherein the power accessory bracket assembly is in an assembled state; 
         FIG. 53  is an exploded view of the power accessory bracket assembly of  FIG. 52 ; 
         FIG. 54  is a perspective view of a captive nut of the power accessory bracket assembly of  FIG. 52 ; 
         FIG. 55  is a perspective view of a power accessory bracket of the power accessory bracket assembly of  FIG. 52 ; 
         FIG. 56  is a perspective view of a threaded fastener member of the power accessory bracket assembly of  FIG. 52 ; 
         FIG. 57  is a perspective view of a north row extension assembly, according to an embodiment of the invention; 
         FIG. 58  is an exploded view of the north row extension assembly of  FIG. 57 ; 
         FIG. 59  is a perspective view of a captive nut of the north row extension assembly of  FIG. 57 ; 
         FIG. 60  is a perspective view of an upper end clamp member of the north row extension assembly of  FIG. 57 ; 
         FIG. 61  is a perspective view of an end clamp fastener member of the north row extension assembly of  FIG. 57 ; 
         FIG. 62  is a perspective view of a strut fastener member of the north row extension assembly of  FIG. 57 ; 
         FIG. 63  is a perspective view of a north row extension member of the north row extension assembly of  FIG. 57 ; 
         FIG. 64  is a perspective view of an upstanding tile base member, according to an embodiment of the invention; 
         FIG. 65  is a perspective view of a south row mounting assembly, according to an embodiment of the invention; 
         FIG. 66  is an exploded view of the south row mounting assembly of  FIG. 65 ; 
         FIG. 67  is a perspective view of an elongated glider member of the south row mounting assembly of  FIG. 65 ; 
         FIG. 68  is a perspective view of a south row coupling assembly of a photovoltaic mounting system, according to an embodiment of the invention, wherein the coupling assembly is illustrated in an assembled state; 
         FIG. 69  is an exploded view of the south row coupling assembly of  FIG. 68 ; 
         FIG. 70  is a perspective view of an upper coupling member of the south row coupling assembly of  FIG. 68 ; 
         FIG. 71  is a perspective view of an lower coupling member of the south row coupling assembly of  FIG. 68 ; 
         FIG. 72  is an end view illustrating the support surface attachment device of  FIG. 29  together with a lower skirt member connected to the support surface attachment device, according to an embodiment of the invention; 
         FIG. 73  is a perspective view of a first spring member that may be utilized in the clamp assembly of  FIGS. 43 and 44 , according to one embodiment of the invention; 
         FIG. 74  is a perspective view of a second spring member that may be utilized in the clamp assembly of  FIGS. 43 and 44 , according to another embodiment of the invention; 
         FIG. 75  is a side view of the upper clamp member of  FIGS. 45 and 46  together with a bonding clip attached thereto, according to an embodiment of the invention; 
         FIG. 76  is a perspective view of an upper sealing washer of the base assembly of  FIGS. 34 and 78 , according to an embodiment of the invention; 
         FIG. 77  is a sectional view cut through the upper sealing washer of  FIG. 76 ; 
         FIG. 78  is a partial sectional view cut through the base assembly of  FIG. 34 , wherein sealing engagement between the base member and the flashing member is shown; 
         FIG. 79  is a perspective view of a junction box bracket, according to yet another embodiment of the invention; 
         FIG. 80  is a perspective view of the junction box bracket of  FIG. 79  attached to a base member; 
         FIG. 81  is a perspective view of a bonding clip, according to another alternative embodiment of the invention; 
         FIG. 82  is a perspective view of a north row extension assembly, according to an alternative embodiment of the invention; 
         FIG. 83  is an exploded view of the north row extension assembly of  FIG. 82 ; 
         FIG. 84  is a perspective view of a junction box bracket, according to still another embodiment of the invention; 
         FIG. 85  is a perspective view of a lower coupling member of a coupling device, according to an alternative embodiment; 
         FIG. 86  is a perspective view of a conduit mounting member, according to an embodiment of the invention; 
         FIG. 87  is a perspective view of an upstanding tile base member, according to an alternative embodiment of the invention; and 
         FIG. 88  is a perspective view of the illustrative mounting system described herein being used to secure an array of photovoltaic modules to a sloped roof; 
         FIG. 89  is an exploded perspective view of another clamp assembly used in conjunction with the support surface attachment devices described herein, according to another embodiment of the invention; 
         FIG. 90  is a side view of the clamp assembly of  FIG. 89 , wherein the clamp assembly is in its assembled state; 
         FIG. 91  is an end view of the clamp assembly of  FIG. 90 ; 
         FIG. 92  is a perspective view of the clamp assembly of  FIG. 90 ; 
         FIG. 93  is a top plan view of the clamp assembly of  FIG. 90 ; 
         FIG. 94  is an exploded perspective view of yet another clamp assembly used in conjunction with the support surface attachment devices described herein, according to yet another embodiment of the invention; 
         FIG. 95  is a top plan view of the clamp assembly of  FIG. 94 , wherein the clamp assembly is in its assembled state; 
         FIG. 96  is an end view of the clamp assembly of  FIG. 95 ; 
         FIG. 97  is a side view of the clamp assembly of  FIG. 95 ; 
         FIG. 98  is a perspective view of the clamp assembly of  FIG. 95 ; 
         FIG. 99  is a perspective view of the lower clamp member of the clamp assembly of  FIG. 94 ; 
         FIG. 100  is a side view of the lower clamp member of  FIG. 99 ; 
         FIG. 101  is a top plan view of the lower clamp member of  FIG. 99 ; 
         FIG. 102  is an end view of the lower clamp member of  FIG. 99 ; 
         FIG. 103  is a perspective view of the lower clamp member of the clamp assembly of  FIG. 89 ; 
         FIG. 104A  is a side view of the lower clamp member of  FIG. 103 ; 
         FIG. 104B  is an enlarged perspective view of the skirt receiving notch of the lower clamp member illustrated in the side view of  FIG. 104A  (Detail “A”); 
         FIG. 105  is a top plan view of the lower clamp member of  FIG. 103 ; 
         FIG. 106  is an end view of the lower clamp member of  FIG. 103 ; 
         FIG. 107A  is a perspective view of the upper clamp member of the clamp assembly of  FIG. 89 ; 
         FIG. 107B  is an enlarged perspective view of one of the grounding protrusions of the upper clamp member illustrated in the perspective view of  FIG. 107A  (Detail “B”); 
         FIG. 108  is a side view of the upper clamp member of  FIG. 107A ; 
         FIG. 109  is an end view of the upper clamp member of  FIG. 107A ; 
         FIG. 110  is a top plan view of the upper clamp member of  FIG. 107A ; 
         FIG. 111A  is a perspective view of another upper clamp member used in conjunction with the clamp assemblies described herein, according to another embodiment of the invention; 
         FIG. 111B  is an enlarged perspective view of one of the grounding protrusions of the upper clamp member illustrated in the perspective view of  FIG. 111A  (Detail “C”); 
         FIG. 112  is a top plan view of the upper clamp member of  FIG. 111A ; 
         FIG. 113  is a side view of the upper clamp member of  FIG. 111A ; 
         FIG. 114  is an end view of the upper clamp member of  FIG. 111A ; 
         FIG. 115A  is a perspective view of yet another upper clamp member used in conjunction with the clamp assemblies described herein, according to yet another embodiment of the invention; 
         FIG. 115B  is an enlarged perspective view of one of the grounding protrusions and the skirt receiving groove of the upper clamp member illustrated in the perspective view of  FIG. 115A  (Detail “D”); 
         FIG. 116  is an end view of the upper clamp member of  FIG. 115A ; 
         FIG. 117  is a side view of the upper clamp member of  FIG. 115A ; 
         FIG. 118  is a top plan view of the upper clamp member of  FIG. 115A ; 
         FIG. 119A  is a perspective view of still another upper clamp member used in conjunction with the clamp assemblies described herein, according to still another embodiment of the invention; 
         FIG. 119B  is an enlarged perspective view of one of the grounding protrusions and the skirt receiving groove of the upper clamp member illustrated in the perspective view of  FIG. 119A  (Detail “E”); 
         FIG. 120  is a top plan view of the upper clamp member of  FIG. 119A ; 
         FIG. 121  is a side view of the upper clamp member of  FIG. 119A ; 
         FIG. 122  is an end view of the upper clamp member of  FIG. 119A ; 
         FIG. 123A  is a perspective view of the upper clamp member of the clamp assembly of  FIG. 94 ; 
         FIG. 123B  is an enlarged perspective view of the grounding protrusions and the skirt receiving groove of the upper clamp member illustrated in the perspective view of  FIG. 123A  (Detail “F”); 
         FIG. 124  is an end view of the upper clamp member of  FIG. 123A ; 
         FIG. 125  is a side view of the upper clamp member of  FIG. 123A ; 
         FIG. 126  is a top plan view of the upper clamp member of  FIG. 123A ; 
         FIG. 127  is an exploded perspective view of another coupling device, according to another embodiment of the invention; 
         FIG. 128  is a side view of the coupling device of  FIG. 127 , wherein the coupling device is in its assembled state; 
         FIG. 129  is an end view of the coupling device of  FIG. 128 ; 
         FIG. 130  is a perspective view of the coupling device of  FIG. 128 ; 
         FIG. 131  is a top plan view of the coupling device of  FIG. 128 ; 
         FIG. 132  is a perspective view of the lower coupling member of the coupling device of  FIG. 127 ; 
         FIG. 133  is a top plan view of the lower coupling member of  FIG. 132 ; 
         FIG. 134  is a side view of the lower coupling member of  FIG. 132 ; 
         FIG. 135  is an end view of the lower coupling member of  FIG. 132 ; 
         FIG. 136  is a top plan view of the upper coupling member of the coupling device of  FIG. 127 ; 
         FIG. 137  is an end view of the upper coupling member of  FIG. 136 ; 
         FIG. 138  is a side view of the upper coupling member of  FIG. 136 ; 
         FIG. 139A  is a perspective view of the upper coupling member of  FIG. 136 ; 
         FIG. 139B  is an enlarged perspective view of two of the grounding protrusions and the skirt receiving grooves of the upper coupling member illustrated in the perspective view of  FIG. 139A  (Detail “G”); 
         FIG. 140A  is a rear perspective view illustrating a support surface attachment device with the clamp assembly of  FIG. 94  together with the coupling device of  FIG. 127  and a lower skirt member connected to the support surface attachment device and the coupling device; 
         FIG. 140B  is an enlarged side view illustrating the securement of the skirt member in the skirt receiving groove of the upper clamp member of  FIG. 140A ; 
         FIG. 141A  is an enlarged side view illustrating the securement of the skirt member in the skirt receiving groove of the upper coupling member of  FIG. 140A ; 
         FIG. 141B  is a front perspective view of the support surface attachment device, coupling device, and lower skirt member of  FIG. 140A ; 
         FIG. 142  is an exploded perspective view of the support surface attachment device, coupling device, and lower skirt member of  FIG. 140A , wherein the skirt member has been exploded from the support surface attachment device and the coupling device; 
         FIG. 143  is a rear perspective view of the lower skirt member illustrated in  FIG. 140A ; 
         FIG. 144  is a front view of the lower skirt member of  FIG. 143 ; 
         FIG. 145A  is an enlarged partial end view illustrating the hemmed upper edge portion of the lower skirt member of  FIG. 143 ; 
         FIG. 145B  is an end view of the lower skirt member of  FIG. 143 ; 
         FIG. 145C  is an enlarged partial end view illustrating the curled lower edge portion of the lower skirt member of  FIG. 143 ; 
         FIG. 146  is a top plan view of the lower skirt member of  FIG. 143 ; 
         FIG. 147  is a top perspective view illustrating another coupling device joining two adjacent photovoltaic modules to one another, according to another embodiment of the invention; 
         FIG. 148  is a perspective view of another lower coupling member, according to another embodiment of the invention, wherein the lower coupling member is configured to be used on the row of photovoltaic modules with the lower skirt member; 
         FIG. 149  is an end view of the lower coupling member of  FIG. 148 ; 
         FIG. 150  is a top perspective view illustrating the lower coupling member of  FIG. 148  joining two adjacent photovoltaic modules to one another; 
         FIG. 151  is a side view of another clamp assembly, according to another embodiment of the invention, wherein a lower skirt member is shown attached to the clamp assembly; 
         FIG. 152  is a perspective view of the lower clamp member of the clamp assembly of  FIG. 151 ; 
         FIG. 153  is a side view of the lower clamp member of  FIG. 152 ; 
         FIG. 154  is a perspective view of another lower clamp member, according to another embodiment of the invention, the lower clamp member being used for attaching a lower skirt member to a photovoltaic array; 
         FIG. 155  is a side view of the lower clamp member of  FIG. 154 ; 
         FIG. 156  is an end view of a lower skirt member attached to a support surface attachment device, wherein the lower clamp member of  FIG. 154  is being used to secure the lower skirt member to the support surface attachment device; 
         FIG. 157  is an end view of a lower skirt member attached to a support surface attachment device, wherein the support surface attachment device comprises a clamp assembly similar to that illustrated in  FIG. 89 , and wherein a spacer member is being used to hold the clamp assembly open; 
         FIG. 158  is a perspective view of the spacer member utilized in the assembly of  FIG. 157 ; 
         FIG. 159  is an end view of the lower skirt member utilized in the assembly of  FIG. 157 ; 
         FIG. 160  is an end view of a lower skirt member attached to a support surface attachment device, wherein the support surface attachment device comprises the clamp assembly of  FIG. 89 ; 
         FIG. 161  is an end view of the lower skirt member utilized in the assembly of  FIG. 160 ; 
         FIG. 162  is a perspective view of another spacer member utilized in the clamp assemblies described herein, according to another embodiment of the invention; 
         FIG. 163  is a side view of the spacer member of  FIG. 162 ; 
         FIG. 164  is another exploded perspective view of the support surface attachment device, coupling device, and lower skirt member of  FIG. 140A , wherein the skirt member has been exploded from the support surface attachment device and the coupling device; 
         FIG. 165  is a rear elevational view of the support surface attachment device, coupling device, and lower skirt member of  FIG. 164 ; 
         FIG. 166  is a side view of the coupling device of  FIG. 164 , wherein spacer members are provided in the coupling device for holding the coupling device open; 
         FIG. 167  is an end view of the clamp assembly of  FIG. 164  illustrating the spacer member in the clamp assembly for holding the clamp assembly open; 
         FIG. 168  is an enlarged side view illustrating the securement of the skirt member in the skirt receiving groove of the upper clamp member of  FIG. 164 ; 
         FIG. 169  is a perspective view of yet another spacer member utilized in the clamp assemblies described herein, according to yet another embodiment of the invention; and 
         FIG. 170  is an enlarged side view illustrating the securement of the skirt member in the skirt receiving groove of the upper coupling member of  FIG. 164 . 
     
    
    
     Throughout the figures, the same parts are always denoted using the same reference characters so that, as a general rule, they will only be described once. 
     DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF EMBODIMENTS OF THE INVENTION 
     An first illustrative embodiment of the support surface attachment device is seen generally at  100  in  FIGS. 1 and 2 . In one or more embodiments, a plurality of support surface attachment devices  100  are used to securely attach an array of photovoltaic modules to a support surface (e.g., a sloped building roof). Referring to  FIG. 2 , it can be seen that support surface attachment device  100  generally comprises a clamp assembly  126  and a base assembly  128 . Each of these assemblies  126 ,  128  will be described in detail hereinafter. 
     Initially, with reference to  FIGS. 3-13 , it can be seen that the illustrative embodiment of the clamp assembly  126  generally includes an upper clamp member  10 , a lower clamp member  20 , and a glider member  60 . As best shown in the assembled view of  FIG. 3 , the upper clamp member  10 , lower clamp member  20 , and glider member  60  are connected to one another by means of a threaded fastener member  38  and a strut nut  72 . In the illustrated embodiment, the threaded fastener member  38  is in the form of a bolt with a head portion having a serrated flange  40  (refer to  FIG. 5 ). The serrations in the lower surface of the bolt head flange of the threaded fastener member  38  are configured to interferingly engage with the top surface of the upper clamp member  10  (i.e., “dig into” the top surface of the upper clamp member  10 ). The external threads on the shaft of the threaded fastener member  38  are configured to threadingly engage with the internal threads  74  in the middle of the strut nut  72  (see  FIG. 12 ). As shown in FIGS.  12  and  13 , the strut nut  72  has spaced-apart elongate grooves  76  disposed in the top surface thereof that are each configured to receive a respective downturned lip  108  of the base member  90 , which will be described hereinafter. In addition, as best shown in the top view of  FIG. 13 , it can be seen that each of the elongate grooves  76  is provided with two (2) spaced-apart protrusions or teeth  77  disposed therein. The spaced-apart teeth  77  in each groove  76  are configured to interferingly engage with a bottom surface of one of the downturned lips  108  (i.e., “dig into” the bottom surface of one of the downturned lips  108 ). Also, referring collectively to  FIGS. 12 and 13 , it can be seen that the strut nut  72  comprises curved sidewall portions  78  arranged diagonally opposite from one another. The curved sidewall portions  78  allow the strut nut  72  to rotate clockwise into position until the flat sidewall portions contact the inside walls of the base member  90 . 
     Referring again to the illustrative embodiment of  FIG. 3 , it can be seen that the upper clamp member  10  and the lower clamp member  20  of clamp assembly  126  cooperate to clamp one or more photovoltaic modules in place on a support surface. That is, each photovoltaic module is clamped in place either between the first opposed flange portion  14   a  of the upper clamp member  10  and the second outwardly extending ledge  28  of the lower clamp member  20  or between the second opposed flange portion  14   b  of the upper clamp member  10  and the first outwardly extending ledge  26  of the lower clamp member  20 , depending on which side of the clamp assembly  126  the photovoltaic module is disposed. 
     Now, with reference to  FIG. 6 , the structure of the upper clamp member  10  will be described. As shown in this figure, the upper clamp member  10  generally includes a base portion  12  that is attached to the bottom surface of a flange portion  14   a ,  14   b  at approximately a 90 degree angle. In this figure, it can be seen that one side surface of base portion  12  comprises a plurality of elongate protrusions or teeth  18  that are each spaced apart from one another by respective elongate grooves  19 . As will be described hereinafter, the plurality of elongate protrusions or teeth  18  matingly engage with elongate protrusions or teeth  30  disposed on the first opposed wall portion  24   a  of the upstanding middle portion  22  of the lower clamp member  20 . Referring again to  FIG. 6 , it can be seen that the flange portion  14   a ,  14   b  of the upper clamp member  10  further comprises a fastener aperture  15  for receiving the threaded fastener member  38  and a downwardly protruding member  17  that forms a back surface against which a photovoltaic module rests when disposed in the clamp assembly  126 . Also, as shown in  FIG. 6 , each of the flange portions  14   a ,  14   b  includes an elongate groove  16  disposed in the bottom surface thereof. Each of the elongate grooves  16  is configured to receive a trough portion  48  of a respective bonding clip  42  (see  FIG. 7 ) that provides integrated grounding for the photovoltaic module installation. The trough portion  48  of each respective bonding clip  42  is received within its respective elongate groove  16  in a press-fit or interference-fit type mounting arrangement. 
     The bonding or grounding clip  42 , which provides integrated grounding for the photovoltaic modules, is illustrated in  FIG. 7 . The bonding clip  42  generally comprises a plate-like body portion with a trough portion  48  extending laterally across the plate-like body portion and dividing the plate-like body portion into two sections. In  FIG. 7 , it can be seen that the plate-like body portion includes one or more upwardly protruding annular members  44  and one or more downwardly protruding annular members  46 . In particular, in the illustrative embodiment, the upwardly and downwardly protruding annular members  44 ,  46  are arranged in an alternating sequence (i.e., a first upwardly protruding annular member  44  followed by a downwardly protruding annular member  46 , then followed by a second upwardly protruding annular member  44 ). The upwardly protruding members  44  are designed to pierce the metallic bottom surface of the flange portion  14   a ,  14   b  of the upper clamp member  10 , while the downwardly protruding annular member  46  is designed to pierce the anodized layer of the photovoltaic module to provide integrated grounding between the photovoltaic modules. To facilitate integrated grounding between the photovoltaic modules, all of the components of the support surface attachment device  100  and the coupling device  130  may be formed from metal. 
     Next, turning to  FIG. 9 , the structure of the lower clamp member  20  will be explained. With reference to this figure, it can be seen that the lower clamp member  20  generally includes an upstanding middle portion  22  with first and second ledge portions  26 ,  28  extending outwardly from the upstanding middle portion  22 . In  FIG. 9 , it can be seen that the upstanding middle portion  22  of the lower clamp member  20  comprises a lower fastener aperture  21  disposed in a bottom wall portion thereof, and an upper fastener aperture  25  disposed in a top wall portion  23  thereof. Each of these apertures  21 ,  25  receives the shaft of the threaded fastener member  38 . The bottom wall portion and the top wall portion  23  of the upstanding middle portion  22  of the lower clamp member  20  are connected to one another by first and second opposed wall portions  24   a ,  24   b . As shown in  FIG. 9 , the first opposed wall portion  24   a  comprises a plurality of elongate protrusions or teeth  30  that are each spaced apart from one another by respective elongate grooves  32 . As explained above, the elongate teeth  30  of the first opposed wall portion  24   a  engage with the elongate teeth  18  of the base portion  12  of the upper clamp member  10 . Referring again to  FIG. 9 , it can be seen that the second opposed wall portion  24   b  comprises a plurality of elongate hook-shaped upwardly inclined protrusions or teeth  34  that are each spaced apart from one another by respective elongate grooves  36 . The hook-shaped teeth  34  on the second opposed wall portion  24   b  are configured to engage with a wind deflector and/or a mounting skirt for deflecting wind up and over the photovoltaic array and/or improving the aesthetics of the array. Each of the first and second ledge portions  26 ,  28  of the lower clamp member  20  is configured to accommodate a photovoltaic module frame member resting thereon. 
     With reference to  FIGS. 3, 4, and 9 , it can be seen that the second opposed ledge  28  of the lower clamp member  20  is bent slightly upward or is tapered slightly upward at an acute angle. In the installed state, the upwardly tapered ledge  28  of the lower clamp member  20  extends uphill and slightly up and away from the building roof so as to act as a leaf spring that takes up the difference in gap between the uphill clamp opening and the photovoltaic (PV) module thickness, thereby preventing the PV module from rattling and allowing it to be secured into place. In some embodiments, this also creates enough pressure on the upper clamp lip (i.e., first opposed flange portion  14   a  of upper clamp member  10 ) to enable a bonding point to function. Advantageously, because the second opposed ledge  28  of the lower clamp member  20  is provided with a slight upward taper (i.e., bowed upwardly), the lower clamp member  20  applies a compressive force against the PV module when it is installed therein. During the installation of each PV module, the PV module is initially disposed at an upward acute angle relative to its one or more southern clamp assemblies  126 . Then, each PV module is rotated down until it is generally parallel with the roof surface. As each PV module is rotated downwardly towards the roof surface, the edge portion of the uphill PV module presses down on the upwardly tapered ledge(s)  28  of the lower clamp member(s)  20  so as to apply a downward force on the upwardly tapered ledge  28 , thereby ensuring that the PV module is securely engaged with the lower clamp member(s)  20  and the PV module is tightly held in place. In response to the downward force applied by the PV module, the upwardly tapered ledges  28  elastically deforms or yields in a spring-like manner. As a result of the leaf spring design of the upwardly tapered ledge  28 , the installer is not required to reach down over the PV module to tighten the fasteners on its one or more southern clamp assemblies  126 . An attempt by the installer to tighten the fasteners on the one or more southern clamp assemblies  126  would not be safe, ergonomic, or efficient. The second ledge portion  158  of the lower coupling member  150  may be bent slightly upward or tapered slightly upward at an acute angle in the same manner as that described above for the upwardly tapered ledge  28  of the lower clamp member  20  so that the coupling device  130  is provided with the same functionality that is described above for the clamp assembly  126 . 
     In order to maintain a predetermined spacing distance between the upper and lower clamp members  10 ,  20 , a sleeve member  50  is provided between the clamp members  10 ,  20  (refer to  FIGS. 3 and 4 ). That is, as best shown in  FIG. 3 , the sleeve member  50  is disposed between the top wall portion  23  of the lower clamp member  20  and the bottom surface of the flange portion  14   a ,  14   b  of the upper clamp member  10 . Turning to  FIG. 8 , it can be seen that the sleeve member  50  of the clamp assembly  126  comprises a cylindrical recess  52  extending therethrough for receiving the shaft of the threaded fastener member  38 . In an alternative embodiment, a spring may be used rather than the sleeve member  50  to maintain the predetermined spacing distance between the upper and lower clamp members  10 ,  20 . 
     As best shown in  FIG. 3 , the lower clamp member  20  is positioned above a glider member  60  that is configured to be adjustably disposed on the upstanding base member  90  in both a horizontal and vertical direction, as will be explained hereinafter. Referring to  FIG. 11 , it can be seen that the glider member  60  of the clamp assembly  126  comprises a generally inverted, U-shaped profile with a top wall portion  64  and first and second opposed wall portions  66   a ,  66   b  extending downwardly from the top wall portion  64 . The top wall portion  64  comprises a fastener aperture  62  disposed centrally therein for receiving the shaft of the threaded fastener member  38 . In  FIG. 11 , it can be seen that the inner surfaces of each of the first and second opposed wall portions  66   a ,  66   b  comprises a plurality of elongate protrusions or teeth  68  that are each spaced apart from one another by respective elongate grooves  70 . The set of teeth  68  on each of the inner surfaces of the opposed wall portions  66   a ,  66   b  are designed to engage with respective teeth  110  on opposed upstanding wall portions  104   a ,  104   b  of the base member  90 . The glider member  60  may be elastically deformable such that it is capable of snapping into place on the top of the base member  90 . To permit horizontal adjustability, the glider member  60  is capable of being slid along the length of the base member  90 . And, to permit vertical adjustability, the glider member  60  is capable of being moved up and down along a vertical height of the upstanding wall portions  104   a ,  104   b  of the base member  90  and selectively engaging certain ones of the teeth  68 ,  110  with one another. 
     With reference to  FIG. 4 , it can be seen that, in the illustrative embodiment, the clamp assembly  126  is further provided with a serrated washer  54  disposed between the lower clamp member  20  and the glider member  60 . In  FIG. 10 , it can be seen that the serrated washer  54  includes an annular body portion  56  with a plurality of diagonally-oriented teeth  58  extending radially outward from the annular body portion  56 . The diagonally-oriented teeth  58  of the serrated washer  54  are designed to cut into the adjacent surfaces of the lower clamp member  20  and the glider member  60  so as resist a rotation of the lower clamp member  20  relative to the glider member  60 . The serrated washer  54  with the diagonally-oriented teeth  58  is also used to electrically bond the lower clamp member  20  to the glider member  60 . 
     Now, referring to  FIGS. 1, 2, 14, and 15 , it can be seen that the illustrative embodiment of the base assembly  128  generally includes an upstanding base member  90  and a lower flashing member  118 . As best shown in the assembled views of  FIGS. 2 and 14 , the upstanding base member  90  is connected to the lower flashing member  118  by a threaded fastener member  80 . In the illustrated embodiment, the threaded fastener member  80  is in the form of a structural mounting bolt with a head portion  82  and a threaded shaft portion (see  FIG. 16 ). In the illustrated embodiment, each support surface attachment device  100  is secured to a respective one of the roof rafters of a building by means of a structural mounting bolt  80  (e.g., refer to  FIG. 1 ). In one or more embodiments, the structural mounting bolt or screw  80  may be self-drilling so as not to require any predrilled holes in the roof. 
     Turning to  FIG. 18 , the upstanding base member  90  of the base assembly  128  will now be described. As shown in this figure, the upstanding base member  90  generally comprises a base portion with first and second opposed base flange portions  94   a ,  94   b  and an elevated shelf portion  98 . Two opposed upstanding wall portions  104   a ,  104   b  extend upwardly from the base portion of the base member  90 . In  FIG. 18 , it can be seen that each of the opposed base flange portions  94   a ,  94   b  comprises a plurality of fastener apertures  96  arranged in a substantially linear configuration along the length thereof. When it is desired to mount the upstanding base member  90  directly to the roof deck, rather than a roof rafter, the base member  90  is secured to the roof deck using fasteners disposed in the fastener apertures  96 . The base portion of the base member  90  comprises a centrally disposed aperture  92  for accommodating the raised portion  122  of the flashing member  118  passing therethrough. The elevated shelf portion  98  of the base portion of the base member  90  comprises a fastener aperture  102  disposed therethrough for accommodating the shaft of the threaded fastener member  80 . In  FIG. 18 , it can be seen that the outer surfaces of each of the first and second opposed upstanding wall portions  104   a ,  104   b  comprises a plurality of elongate protrusions or teeth  110  that are each spaced apart from one another by respective elongate grooves  112 . As described above, the set of teeth  110  on each of the outer surfaces of the opposed wall portions  104   a ,  104   b  are designed to engage with the respective teeth  68  on the opposed wall portions  66   a ,  66   b  of the glider member  60 . Also, as shown in  FIG. 18 , the opposed wall portions  104   a ,  104   b  of the base member  90  cooperate to define an upper elongate slot  106  that accommodates the shaft of the threaded fastener member  38  passing therethrough. Also, each of the opposed wall portions  104   a ,  104   b  comprises a downturned lip portion  108  that is received within a respective one of the elongate grooves  76  disposed in the top surface of the strut nut  72 . 
     With reference primarily to  FIG. 20 , the flashing member  118  of the base assembly  128  will now be explained. The flashing member  118  helps to maintain the integrity of the building roof by preventing roof leaks. In  FIG. 20 , it can be seen that the flashing member  118  generally comprises a generally planar body portion  120  and a raised portion or projection  122  that extends upwardly from the generally planar body portion  120  in a generally vertical direction. As best shown in the perspective view of  FIG. 20 , the raised portion or projection  122  is offset with respect to the center of the generally planar body portion  120  (i.e., the raised portion or projection  122  is disposed to the side of the central point of the generally planar body portion  120 ). In  FIG. 20 , it can be seen that the raised portion or projection  122  includes a centrally disposed fastener aperture  124  for receiving the shaft of the structural mounting bolt  80  therein. Advantageously, the raised nature of the protrusion or projection  122  above the remainder of the generally planar body portion  120  of the flashing member  118  substantially prevents any precipitation (i.e., rain water) from entering the structure of the building roof through the fastener aperture  124 . In the assembled state of the support surface attachment device  100 , in order to further prevent any leaks through the aperture  124  of the flashing member  118 , a lower sealing washer  114  (see  FIGS. 15 and 19 ) is provided on the top of the raised portion or projection  122  of the flashing member  118 . The lower sealing washer  114  comprises a fastener aperture  116  disposed therein for accommodating the shaft of the structural mounting bolt  80 . The lower sealing washer  114  is sandwiched between the raised portion or projection  122  of the flashing member  118  and the bottom surface of the elevated shelf portion  98  of the base member  90  when the base member  90  is disposed on top of the flashing member  118  in the assembled state of the support surface attachment device  100 . In addition, in the assembled state, an upper sealing washer  84  is disposed between the bottom surface of the head portion  82  of the bolt  80  and the top surface of the elevated shelf portion  98  of the base member  90  to additionally prevent any leaks through the roof. As shown in  FIG. 17 , the upper sealing washer  84  comprises a flanged top portion  88  with a fastener aperture  86  disposed through the center thereof for accommodating the shaft of the structural mounting bolt  80 . In the assembled state of the support surface attachment device  100 , the upper sealing washer  84  is sandwiched between the bottom surface of the bolt head portion  82  and the top surface of the elevated shelf portion  98  of the base member  90 . In one exemplary embodiment, the flashing member  118  may be formed from stamped metal, and the upper and lower sealing washers  84 ,  114  may be formed from a suitable plastic or rubber, such as ethylene propylene diene monomer (EPDM). 
     Advantageously, the design of the flashing member  118  illustrated in  FIGS. 14, 15, and 20  results in superior waterproofing because its water seal is elevated above the roof surface (i.e., at the top of the raised portion or projection  122 ) so that the integrity of the flashing waterproofing is maintained even if the sealing washer  114  would fail. Also, because the flashing member  118  may be formed by stamping, its manufacturing costs are inexpensive. In addition, the configuration of the flashing member  118  allows adjacent flashing members  118  to be readily stacked for compact shipping. 
     Now, with reference to  FIGS. 21-25 , it can be seen that the illustrative embodiment of the coupling device or assembly  130  generally includes an upper coupling member  140  secured to a lower coupling member  150 . As best shown in the assembled view of  FIG. 21  and the exploded view of  FIG. 22 , the upper coupling member  140  and the lower coupling member  150  are connected to one another by means of one or more threaded fastener members  168  (e.g., two (2) threaded fastener members  168 ) and one or more respective captive nuts  170  (e.g., two (2) captive nuts  170 , one for each threaded fastener member  168 ). In the illustrated embodiment, each threaded fastener member  168  is in the form of a bolt with a head portion having a serrated flange (e.g., refer to  FIG. 21 ). As described above for the bolts  38 , the serrations in the lower surface of the bolt head flange of each threaded fastener member  168  are configured to interferingly engage with the top surface of the upper coupling member  140  (i.e., “dig into” the top surface of the upper coupling member  140 ). The external threads on the shaft of each threaded fastener member  168  are configured to threadingly engage with the internal threads in the threaded aperture  172  of the captive nut  170  (see  FIG. 25 ). 
     Turning to  FIG. 23 , the structure of the upper coupling member  140  will be described. As shown in this figure, the upper coupling member  140  generally includes a base portion  142  that is attached to the bottom surface of a flange portion  144   a ,  144   b  at approximately a 90 degree angle. In this figure, it can be seen that one side surface of base portion  142  comprises a plurality of elongate protrusions or teeth  148  that are each spaced apart from one another by respective elongate grooves  149 . As will be described hereinafter, the plurality of elongate protrusions or teeth  148  matingly engage with elongate protrusions or teeth  160  disposed on the first opposed wall portion  154   a  of the upstanding middle portion  152  of the lower coupling member  150 . Referring again to  FIG. 23 , it can be seen that the flange portion  144   a ,  144   b  of the upper coupling member  140  further comprises a plurality of fastener apertures  145  for receiving respective threaded fastener members  168  and a downwardly protruding member  147  that forms a back surface against which a photovoltaic module rests when disposed in the coupling assembly  130 . Also, as shown in  FIG. 23 , each of the flange portions  144   a ,  144   b  includes an elongate groove  146  disposed in the bottom surface thereof. Each of the elongate grooves  146  is configured to receive a trough portion  48  of a respective bonding clip  42  (see  FIGS. 7 and 22 ) that provides integrated grounding for the photovoltaic module installation. The trough portion  48  of each respective bonding clip  42  is received within its respective elongate groove  146  in a press-fit or interference-fit type mounting arrangement. 
     Next, turning to  FIG. 24 , the structure of the lower coupling member  150  will be explained. With reference to this figure, it can be seen that the lower coupling member  150  generally includes an upstanding middle portion  152  with first and second ledge portions  156 ,  158  extending outwardly from the upstanding middle portion  152 . In  FIG. 24 , it can be seen that the upstanding middle portion  152  of the lower coupling member  150  comprises spaced-apart lower fastener apertures disposed in a bottom wall portion thereof, and spaced-apart upper fastener apertures  155  disposed in a top wall portion  153  thereof. Each of these apertures receives a respective shaft of a respective threaded fastener member  168 . The bottom wall portion and the top wall portion  153  of the upstanding middle portion  152  of the lower coupling member  150  are connected to one another by first and second opposed wall portions  154   a ,  154   b . As shown in  FIG. 24 , the first opposed wall portion  154   a  comprises a plurality of elongate protrusions or teeth  160  that are each spaced apart from one another by respective elongate grooves  162 . As explained above, the elongate teeth  160  of the first opposed wall portion  154   a  engage with the elongate teeth  148  of the base portion  142  of the upper coupling member  140 . Referring again to  FIG. 24 , it can be seen that the second opposed wall portion  154   b  comprises a plurality of elongate hook-shaped protrusions or teeth  164  that are each spaced apart from one another by respective elongate grooves  166 . The hook-shaped teeth  164  on the second opposed wall portion  154   b  are configured to engage with a wind deflector and/or a mounting skirt for deflecting wind up and over the photovoltaic array and/or improving the aesthetics of the array, as will be described hereinafter. Each of the first and second ledge portions  156 ,  158  of the lower coupling member  150  is configured to accommodate a photovoltaic module frame member resting thereon. 
     With reference to  FIGS. 26-28 , a skirt member  174  of the photovoltaic mounting system will be described. Initially, referring to the perspective view of  FIG. 26 , it can be seen that the skirt member  174  is configured to be located on the southernmost edge of the array of PV modules. The skirt member  174  is supported by spaced-apart support surface attachment devices  100 . In particular, as shown in the side view of  FIG. 27 , the skirt member  174  engages with the upper clamp member  10  and the lower clamp member  20  of the clamp assembly  126  of the support surface attachment device  100 . As shown in this figure, the skirt member  174  is clampingly engaged by the upper clamp member  10 , and is additionally engaged by the hook-shaped teeth  34  of the lower clamp member  20 . 
     Referring again to  FIGS. 27 and 28 , the engagement between the skirt member  174  and the lower clamp member  20  will be explained in more detail. As shown in the perspective view of  FIG. 28 , a backside of the skirt member  174  comprises a plurality of elongate hook-shaped protrusions or teeth  176  that are each spaced apart from one another by respective elongate grooves  178 . With reference to the side view of  FIG. 27 , it can be seen that at least some of the hook-shaped protrusions or teeth  176  of the skirt member  174  matingly engage with at least some of the hook-shaped protrusions or teeth  34  on the lower clamp member  20 . This engagement between the hook-shaped protrusions or teeth  34 ,  176  enables the skirt member  174  to be securely supported on the clamp assembly  126 . The hook-shaped protrusions or teeth  164  on the lower coupling member  150  engage with the hook-shaped protrusions or teeth  176  of the skirt member  174  in a manner that is generally the same as that of the hook-shaped protrusions or teeth  34  on the lower clamp member  20 . Advantageously, the hook-shaped protrusions or teeth  176 ,  34  on the skirt member  174  and the lower clamp member  20 , respectively, allows the skirt member  174  to be mounted at various heights relative to the lower clamp member  20  so that the skirt member  174  is capable of matching PV modules having more than one height. This is important because the skirt member  174  sets the gap size of the clamp assembly  126  and the coupling assembly  130  on the south row of the PV array to accept the first row of PV modules. 
     In the perspective view of  FIG. 26 , it can be seen that the skirt member  174  is configured to cover the exposed downhill edge of the array of PV modules (only one skirt member  174  is shown in  FIG. 26 ). Because the skirt member(s)  174  closes out the south row of PV modules, it improves the aesthetics of the completed photovoltaic array. No clamps or hardware is seen from ground. Airflow around the array is permitted. In one exemplary embodiment, the skirt member  174  may be formed from aluminum. In another exemplary embodiment, the skirt member  174  may be formed from a suitable polymer. 
     A second illustrative embodiment of a support surface attachment device is seen generally at  100 ′ in  FIG. 29 . Referring to this figure, it can be seen that, in some respects, the second illustrative embodiment is similar to that of the first embodiment of the support surface attachment device  100 . Moreover, some elements are common to both such embodiments. For the sake of brevity, the elements that the second embodiment of the support surface attachment device has in common with the first embodiment will not be discussed in detail because these components have already been described above. 
     Initially, with reference to  FIGS. 43 and 44 , it can be seen that the second embodiment of the clamp assembly  126 ′ generally includes an upper clamp member  10 ′, a lower clamp member  20 ′, and a glider member  60 ′. As best shown in the assembled view of  FIG. 43 , the upper clamp member  10 ′, lower clamp member  20 ′, and glider member  60 ′ are connected to one another by means of a threaded fastener member  38  and a strut nut  72 . As in the first illustrated embodiment, the threaded fastener member  38  is in the form of a bolt with a head portion having a serrated flange  40  (refer to  FIG. 5 ). The strut nut  72  that is used in the second illustrative embodiment is also the same as that utilized in the first illustrative embodiment. As shown in the exploded view of  FIG. 44 , an O-ring  196  is provided on the shaft of the threaded fastener member  38 . The O-ring  196  stabilizes the clamp assembly on the glider member  60 ′ prior to installation. 
     Now, with reference to  FIG. 30 , the structure of the upper clamp member  10 ′ of the second embodiment will be described. Similar to that described above for the first embodiment, the upper clamp member  10 ′ generally includes a base portion  12 ′ that is attached to the bottom surface of a flange portion  14   a ,  14   b  at approximately a 90 degree angle. In this figure, it can be seen that one side surface of base portion  12 ′ comprises a pair of elongate protrusions or teeth  18 ′ that are each spaced apart from one another by an elongate groove  19 ′. As will be described hereinafter, the pair of elongate protrusions or teeth  18 ′ matingly engage with elongate protrusions or teeth  30 ′ disposed on the first opposed wall portion  24   a ′ of the upstanding middle portion  22 ′ of the lower clamp member  20 ′. Referring again to  FIG. 30 , it can be seen that the flange portion  14   a ,  14   b  of the upper clamp member  10 ′ further comprises a fastener aperture  15  for receiving the threaded fastener member  38  and a downwardly protruding member  17 ′ that forms a back surface against which a photovoltaic module rests when disposed in the clamp assembly  126 ′. Also, as shown in  FIG. 30 , each of the flange portions  14   a ,  14   b  includes an elongate groove  16 ′ disposed in the bottom surface thereof. Each of the elongate grooves  16 ′ is configured to receive a projection portion  49 ′ of a respective bonding clip  42 ′ (see  FIG. 31 ) that provides integrated grounding for the photovoltaic module installation. The projection portion  49 ′ of each respective bonding clip  42 ′ is received within its respective elongate groove  16 ′ in a press-fit or interference-fit type mounting arrangement. Also, as shown in  FIG. 30 , the upper clamp member  10 ′ of the clamp assembly comprises a pair of downwardly extending lip portions  376 ,  378  on opposite sides of the flanged top portion  14   a ,  14   b  of the upper clamp member  10 ′. The first downwardly extending lip portion  376  is shorter than the second downwardly extending lip portion  378  so as to facilitate the one or more photovoltaic modules being pivotably installed into the first side of the clamp assembly (i.e., into the side of clamp assembly with flange portion  14   a ). As such, the shorter downwardly extending lip portion  376  does not interfere with the minimum gap needed to allow pivoted north side PV module mounting. 
     A third illustrative embodiment of the upper clamp member  10 ″ is shown in  FIGS. 45 and 46 . The third embodiment of the upper clamp member  10 ″ is similar in most respects to the second embodiment of the upper clamp member  10 ′ explained above. Like the second embodiment of the upper clamp member  10 ′, the upper clamp member  10 ″ in  FIGS. 45 and 46  generally includes a base portion  12 ″ that is attached to the bottom surface of a flange portion  14   a ,  14   b  at approximately a 90 degree angle. Although, in  FIGS. 45 and 46 , it can be seen that the one side of the base portion  12 ″ of the upper clamp member  10 ″ comprises three (3) elongate protrusions or teeth  18 ′ that are each spaced apart from one another by respective elongate grooves  19 ″, rather than the pair of elongate protrusions or teeth  18 ′ described above for the second embodiment. Similar to the upper clamp member  10 ′ of  FIG. 30 , each of the flange portions  14   a ,  14   b  of the upper clamp member  10 ″ of  FIGS. 45 and 46  includes an elongate groove  16 ″ disposed in the bottom surface thereof for accommodating a respective bonding clip (e.g., bonding clip  42 ′ in  FIG. 31  or bonding clip  42 ″ in  FIG. 47 ). However, unlike the upper clamp member  10 ′ of  FIG. 30 , the downwardly protruding member  17 ″ of the upper clamp member  10 ″ additionally contains a groove  11  formed in one side thereof for capturing an edge of the bonding clip (e.g., bonding clip  42 ′ in  FIG. 31  or bonding clip  42 ″ in  FIG. 47 ), and holding it in place (refer to  FIG. 75 ). 
     Additional embodiments of the bonding or grounding clip, which provides integrated grounding for the photovoltaic modules, are illustrated in  FIGS. 31, 47, and 81 , respectively. Similar to the bonding clip  42  of  FIG. 7  described above, the bonding clips  42 ′,  42 ″ of  FIGS. 31 and 47  each comprise a plate-like body portion with a plurality of upwardly protruding annular members  44 ′ and a plurality of downwardly protruding annular members  46 ′ formed therein. In particular, in the illustrative embodiments, each of the upwardly protruding annular members  44 ′ is arranged adjacent to a respective opposite end of the plate-like body portion, and the pair of downwardly protruding annular members  46 ′ are disposed between the pair of upwardly protruding annular members  44 ′. The upwardly and downwardly protruding annular members  44 ′,  46 ′ are also generally arranged in a staggered, non-aligned configuration on the plate-like body portions of the bonding clips  42 ′,  42 ″. As explained above for bonding clip  42 , the upwardly protruding members  44  are designed to pierce the metallic bottom surface of the flange portion  14   a ,  14   b  of the upper clamp member  10 ′, while the downwardly protruding annular member  46  is designed to pierce the anodized layer of the photovoltaic module to provide integrated grounding between the photovoltaic modules. 
     Referring to bonding clip  42 ′ in  FIG. 31 , it can be seen that a projection portion  49  is attached to the plate-like body portion of the bonding clip  42 ′. The projection portion  49  of the bonding clip  42 ′ engages with a selected one of the elongate grooves  16 ′,  16 ″ in the upper clamp members  10 ′,  10 ″ so as to hold the bonding clip  42 ′ in place. The bonding clip  42 ″ of  FIG. 47  also contains a projection portion  49 ′ that is attached to the plate-like body portion of the bonding clip  42 ″. As shown in  FIG. 47 , the projection portion  49 ′ of the bonding clip  42 ″ comprises a pair of spaced-apart bent over tabs  47 ,  47 ′, wherein each tab  47 ,  47 ′ is disposed at an opposite end of the projection portion  49 ′. Each of the tabs  47 ,  47 ′ engages with a selected one of the elongate grooves  16 ′,  16 ″ in the upper clamp members  10 ′,  10 ″ in order to hold the bonding clip  42 ′,  42 ″ in place in the clamp assembly  126 ′. Also, similar to the bonding clips  42 ,  42 ′,  42 ″, the bonding clip  42 ′″ of  FIG. 81  comprises a plate-like body portion  43  with a plurality of upwardly protruding annular members  44 ′ and a plurality of downwardly protruding annular members  46 ′ formed therein. The plate-like body portion  43  of the clip  42 ′″ is not folded over. Like the embodiment of  FIGS. 31 and 47 , the upwardly and downwardly protruding annular members  44 ′,  46 ′ of the clip  42 ′″ are arranged in a staggered configuration. However, unlike the preceding embodiments of the bonding clip, the clip attachment portions of the bonding clip  42 ′″ of  FIG. 81  comprise a pair of flange members  45 , each of which is disposed at an opposite end of the clip body portion  43 . When the bonding clip  42 ′″ is installed on an object (e.g., upper clamp members  10 ′,  10 ″), a top portion of each of the pair of flange members  45  (i.e., the top fold of the flange members  45 ) remains visible to an installer so that an installed condition of the bonding clip  42 ′″ is capable of being verified by the installer. Also, advantageously, the flange members  45  of the bonding clip  42 ′″ allow the clip  42 ′″ to be installed without the need to fully open the clamp assembly (i.e., the installer only needs to open the clamp a small amount). In one or more embodiments, the bonding clip  42 ′″ may be used on the north side of a photovoltaic module row. 
     Next, turning to  FIG. 32 , the structure of the second embodiment of the lower clamp member  20 ′ will be explained. Similar to that described above for the lower clamp member  20 , it can be seen that the lower clamp member  20 ′ generally includes an upstanding middle portion  22 ′ with first and second ledge portions  26 ,  28  extending outwardly from the upstanding middle portion  22 ′ (refer to  FIG. 32 ). In  FIG. 32 , it can be seen that the upstanding middle portion  22  of the lower clamp member  20  comprises a lower fastener aperture  21  disposed in a bottom wall portion thereof, and an upper fastener aperture  25  disposed in a top wall portion  23 ′ thereof. Each of these apertures  21 ,  25  receives the shaft of the threaded fastener member  38 . The bottom wall portion and the top wall portion  23 ′ of the upstanding middle portion  22  of the lower clamp member  20  are connected to one another by first and second opposed wall portions  24   a ′,  24   b ′. As shown in  FIG. 32 , the first opposed wall portion  24   a ′ comprises a plurality of elongate protrusions or teeth  30 ′ (e.g., with generally wedge-shaped cross-sections) that are each spaced apart from one another by respective elongate grooves  32 ′. As explained above, the elongate teeth  30 ′ of the first opposed wall portion  24   a ′ engage with the elongate teeth  18 ′ of the base portion  12 ′ of the upper clamp member  10 ′. Referring again to  FIG. 32 , it can be seen that the second opposed wall portion  24   b ′ comprises a plurality of upwardly inclined elongate protrusions or teeth  34 ′ that are spaced apart from one another by elongate grooves  36 ′,  37 . More particularly, the upper two (2) protrusions or teeth  34 ′ are spaced apart from one another by the narrow width elongate groove  36 ′, while the upper two (2) protrusions or teeth  34 ′ are spaced apart from a bottom protrusion or tooth  34 ′ disposed near the surface of the second ledge portion  28  by a wide elongate groove  37 . The upwardly inclined elongate protrusions or teeth  34 ′ on the second opposed wall portion  24   b ′ are configured to engage with a wind deflector and/or a mounting skirt for deflecting wind up and over the photovoltaic array and/or improving the aesthetics of the array (see e.g.,  FIG. 72 ). Advantageously, the upwardly inclined elongate protrusions or teeth  34 ′ allow the skirt to be dropped in at the appropriate height, and once the skirt is secured, the upward facing protrusions or teeth  34 ′ resist torsional detachment from the lower clamp member  20 ′ (e.g., due to ice expansion on the PV array applying a force against the skirt). Each of the first and second ledge portions  26 ,  28  of the lower clamp member  20  is configured to accommodate a photovoltaic module frame member resting thereon. As described above for the first embodiment of the lower clamp member  20 , the second opposed ledge  28  of the lower clamp member  20 ′ is bent slightly upward, or is tapered slightly upward at an acute angle, so as to be capable of performing the same functionality explained above for the lower clamp member  20 . In addition, as shown in  FIG. 32 , the lower clamp member  20 ′ of the clamp assembly comprises a plurality of ridges  380  disposed on a bottom surface thereof. The ridges  380  are configured to increase a frictional engagement between the lower clamp member  20 ′ and the glider member  60 ′ so as prevent the upper and lower clamp members  10 ′,  20 ′ of the clamp assembly from rotating relative to the glider member  60 ′ when the threaded fastener member  38  is tightened by an installer (i.e., the ridges  380  increase the resistance to rotation of the clamp assembly on the glider member  60 ′). 
     In the illustrated embodiment, one or more of the teeth or serrations  30 ′ on the lower clamp member  20 ′ are configured to engage one or more of the teeth or serrations  18 ′ on the upper clamp member  10 ′ when the threaded fastener  38  is being tightened so as to maintain a minimum gap between the upper clamp member  10 ′ and the lower clamp member  20 ′ for receiving one or more photovoltaic module frames of one or more photovoltaic modules when the one or more photovoltaic modules are pivotably installed into a first side (e.g., north side) of the clamp assembly. In an exemplary embodiment, the clamp assembly  10 ′,  20 ′ is designed to accept 32, 33, 35, 40, 45, and 50 millimeter (mm) PV modules. As such, in the exemplary embodiment, the serrations  18 ′,  30 ′ on the upper and lower clamp members  10 ′,  20 ′ are positioned to engage at the above mentioned dimensions. As the threaded fastener  38  of the clamp is tightened, the downhill side of the clamp contacts a module (e.g., the south side of the clamp), and a torque is applied to the upper clamp member  10 ′ engaging the teeth. This allows the uphill side of the clamp (e.g., the north side of the clamp), to remain open, allowing the next module to slide in from above, and to be pivoted mounted in place. 
     In order to maintain a predetermined spacing distance between the upper and lower clamp members  10 ′,  20 ′ during PV module installation, a leaf spring member  186  is provided between the clamp members  10 ′,  20 ′ (refer to  FIGS. 43 and 44 ). In an exemplary embodiment, the leaf spring member  186  may be Z-shaped. That is, as best shown in  FIG. 43 , the leaf spring member  186  is disposed between the top wall portion  23 ′ of the lower clamp member  20 ′ and the bottom surface of the flange portion  14   a ,  14   b  of the upper clamp member  10 ′. During the installation of the PV modules in the PV array, the spring member  186  holds the upper clamp member  10 ′ in place above the lower clamp member  20 ′ so that a PV module can be inserted between the two (2) clamp members  10 ′,  20 ′. Without the use of the spring member  186 , the flange  14   a ,  14   b  of the upper clamp member  10 ′ would tend to just rest on the top of the lower clamp member  20 ′, thereby making it very difficult to insert between the two (2) clamp members  10 ′,  20 ′. In addition, the use of the spring member  186  in the clamp assembly  126 ′ allows the fastener member  38  to be tightened so that the strut nut  72  engages the base and secures the clamp to the base  90 ′ without the clamp being compressed. 
     Turning to  FIG. 73 , it can be seen that the leaf spring member  186  of the clamp assembly  126 ′ comprises bottom and top leg portions  188 ,  192 , which are connected to one another by a middle diagonal leg portion  190 . Each of the leg portions  188 ,  190 ,  192  is provided with a respective fastener aperture  194  disposed therethrough for accommodating the shaft of the threaded fastener member  38 . An alternative embodiment of the leaf spring member  186 ′ is depicted in  FIG. 74 . Like the spring member  186 , the leaf spring member  186 ′ of  FIG. 74  comprises bottom and top leg portions  188 ′,  192 ′, which are connected to one another by a middle diagonal leg portion  190 ′. However, it can be seen that the geometry of the leg portions  188 ′,  190 ′,  192 ′ of the spring member  186 ′ of  FIG. 74  are slightly different than the leg portions  188 ,  190 ,  192  of the spring member  186  (e.g., the outer ends of the bottom and top leg portions  188 ′,  192 ′ are not bent like the bottom and top leg portions  188 ,  192  of the  FIG. 73  embodiment). Also, similar to the spring member  186 , each of the leg portions  188 ,  190 ,  192  of the spring member  186 ′ in  FIG. 74  is provided with a respective fastener aperture  194 ′ disposed therethrough for accommodating the shaft of the threaded fastener member  38 . However, it can be seen that the fastener apertures  194 ′ are generally oval-shaped, rather than being circular as in  FIG. 73 . 
     As best shown in  FIG. 43 , the lower clamp member  20 ′ is positioned above a glider member  60 ′ that is configured to be adjustably disposed on the upstanding base member  90 ′ in both a horizontal and vertical direction, similar to that explained above for the glider member  60 . Referring to  FIG. 33 , like the glider member  60  described above, it can be seen that the glider member  60 ′ of the clamp assembly  126 ′ comprises a generally inverted, U-shaped profile with a top wall portion  64 ′ and first and second opposed wall portions  66   a ′,  66   b ′ extending downwardly from the top wall portion  64 ′. The top wall portion  64 ′ comprises a fastener aperture  62  disposed centrally therein for receiving the shaft of the threaded fastener member  38 . In  FIG. 33 , it can be seen that the inner surfaces of each of the first and second opposed wall portions  66   a ′,  66   b ′ comprises a pair of elongate protrusions or teeth  68 ′ that are spaced apart from one another by a respective elongate groove  70 ′. The pair of teeth  68 ′ on each of the inner surfaces of the opposed wall portions  66   a ′,  66   b ′ are designed to engage with respective teeth  110  on opposed upstanding wall portions  104   a ′,  104   b ′ of the base member  90 ′. The glider member  60 ′ may be slid into place on the top of the base member  90 ′ by engaging its teeth  68 ′ with the teeth  110  of the base member  90 ′. To permit horizontal adjustability, the glider member  60 ′ is capable of being slid along the length of the base member  90 ′. And, to permit vertical adjustability, the glider member  60 ′ is capable of being adjusted placed along a vertical height of the upstanding wall portions  104   a ′,  104   b ′ of the base member  90 ′ by selectively engaging certain ones of the teeth  68 ′ on the glider member  60 ′ with certain ones of the grooves  112  on the base member  90 ′, and the groove  70 ′ on the glider member  60 ′ with a certain one of the teeth  110  on the base member  90 ′. 
     As shown in  FIG. 33 , the outer sides of the first and second opposed wall portions  66   a ′,  66   b ′ of the glider member  60 ′ are provided with a plurality of generally parallel, visual indicator grooves  61  formed therein (e.g., three (3) visual indicator grooves  61 ). During the installation of the PV modules, the visual indicator grooves  61  operate as visual indicating bands for positioning the clamp assembly  126 ′ at its desired height (i.e., the visual indicator grooves  61  enable the desired height of the clamp assembly  126 ′ relative to the base member  90 ′ to be more easily obtained by the installer during the PV module installation process). Also, referring again to  FIG. 33 , it can be seen that opposed protrusions  63  may be provided at the top of the glider member  60 ′ for holding a chalk line (e.g., a string) in place that is used for the alignment of the PV module row on the support surface (e.g., roof). In an illustrative embodiment, the chalk line (e.g., a string) may be received within the topmost one of the grooves  61 , and the lower two (2) grooves  61  may be used as visual aid indicators showing the height of the glider member  60 ′ on the upstanding base member  90 ′ (i.e., corresponding to the grooves  61 ). 
     Now, referring to  FIGS. 29 and 34 , it can be seen that the second illustrative embodiment of the base assembly  128 ′ generally includes an upstanding base member  90 ′ and a lower flashing member  118 ′. As best shown in the assembled view of  FIG. 34 , the upstanding base member  90 ′ is connected to the lower flashing member  118 ′ by a threaded fastener member  80 . As described above for the first illustrated embodiment, the threaded fastener member  80  of the second embodiment is in the form of a structural mounting bolt with a head portion  82  and a threaded shaft portion (see  FIG. 16 ). In the illustrated embodiment, each support surface attachment device  100 ′ is secured to a respective one of the roof rafters of a building by means of a structural mounting bolt  80  (e.g., refer to  FIG. 29 ). 
     Turning to  FIG. 35 , the upstanding base member  90 ′ of the base assembly  128 ′ will now be described. As shown in this figure, the upstanding base member  90 ′ generally comprises a base portion with first and second opposed base flange portions  94   a ,  94   b  and an elevated shelf portion  98 ′. Unlike the first embodiment of the upstanding base member  90 ′, the elevated shelf portion  98 ′ of the upstanding base member  90 ′ does not comprise any recesses formed therein. Rather, the elevated shelf portion  98 ′ is a generally planar plate that extends between the two (2) opposed upstanding wall portions  104   a ′,  104   b ′. In  FIG. 35 , it can be seen that the opposed upstanding wall portions  104   a ′,  104   b ′ extend upwardly from the base portion of the base member  90 ′. Also, with reference to  FIG. 35 , it can be seen that each of the opposed base flange portions  94   a ,  94   b  comprises a plurality of fastener apertures  96  arranged in a substantially linear configuration along the length thereof. When it is desired to mount the upstanding base member  90 ′ directly to the roof deck, rather than a roof rafter, the base member  90 ′ is secured to the roof deck using fasteners disposed in the fastener apertures  96 . The base portion of the base member  90 ′ comprises a centrally disposed aperture  92  for accommodating the raised portion  122 ′ of the flashing member  118 ′ passing therethrough. The elevated shelf portion  98 ′ of the base portion of the base member  90 ′ comprises a flashing/fastener aperture  102  disposed therethrough for accommodating the top annular portion  125  of the flashing raised portion  122 ′ and the shaft of the threaded fastener member  80  disposed within the flashing annular portion  125  (e.g., see the sectional view in  FIG. 78 ). In  FIG. 35 , it can be seen that the outer surfaces of each of the first and second opposed upstanding wall portions  104   a ,  104   b  comprises a plurality of elongate protrusions or teeth  110  that are each spaced apart from one another by respective elongate grooves  112 . As described above, the set of teeth  110  on each of the outer surfaces of the opposed wall portions  104   a ,  104   b  are designed to engage with the respective teeth  68 ′ on the opposed wall portions  66   a ′,  66   b ′ of the glider member  60 ′. Also, as shown in  FIG. 35 , the opposed wall portions  104   a ′,  104   b ′ of the base member  90 ′ cooperate to define an upper elongate slot  106  that accommodates the shaft of the threaded fastener member  38  passing therethrough. Also, each of the opposed wall portions  104   a ′,  104   b ′ comprises a downturned lip portion  108  that is received within a respective one of the elongate grooves  76  disposed in the top surface of the strut nut  72 . Turning to  FIG. 34 , it can be seen that a bottom surface of the upstanding base member  90 ′ may include a plurality of ridges  382  disposed thereon. The ridges  382  are configured to increase a frictional engagement between the upstanding base member  90 ′ and the flashing member  118 ′ so as prevent the upstanding base member  90 ′ from rotating relative to the flashing member  118 ′ when a base fastener member  80  is tightened by an installer (i.e., the ridges  382  slightly deform the flashing member  118 ′ when the base member  90 ′ is tightened against the flashing so as to resist the turning of the base member  90 ′ relative to the flashing member  118 ′). Also, the ridges  382  disposed on the bottom surface of the upstanding base member  90 ′ are additionally configured to capture and hold sealing tape (e.g., butyl tape) when the upstanding base member  90 ′ is mounted directly against the support surface (e.g., directly against a roof deck in deck-mounted installation). Referring again to  FIG. 34 , it can be seen that a top surface of the upstanding base member  90 ′ may include a plurality of visual installation guide marks  384  configured to facilitate an installation of one or more rows of the one or more photovoltaic modules (e.g., to facilitate the accurate setting of the south row in the PV module array). 
     With reference primarily to  FIG. 37 , the flashing member  118 ′ of the base assembly  128 ′ will now be explained Like the flashing member  118  described above, the flashing member  118 ′ helps to maintain the integrity of the building roof by preventing roof leaks. In  FIG. 37 , it can be seen that the flashing member  118 ′ generally comprises a generally planar body portion  120 ′ and a raised portion or projection  122 ′ that extends upwardly from the generally planar body portion  120 ′ in a generally vertical direction. As best shown in the perspective view of  FIG. 37 , the raised portion or projection  122 ′ is offset with respect to the center of the generally planar body portion  120 ′ (i.e., the raised portion or projection  122 ′ is disposed to the side of the central point of the generally planar body portion  120 ′). In  FIG. 37 , it can be seen that the raised portion or projection  122 ′ includes a centrally disposed fastener aperture  124  for receiving the shaft of the structural mounting bolt  80  therein. As shown in  FIG. 37 , the flashing raised portion  122 ′ further includes a generally horizontal ledge portion  123  that extends radially inward towards the fastener aperture  124 , and annular collar portion  125  that extends upwardly from the ledge portion  123  of the flashing raised portion  122 ′. As shown in the sectional view of  FIG. 78 , the bottom surface of the elevated shelf portion  98 ′ of the base member  90 ′ is disposed adjacent to the flashing ledge portion  123  in the assembled state of the base assembly  128 ′, while the upstanding, annular collar portion  125  of the flashing raised portion  122 ′ extends through the flashing/fastener aperture  102  in the base shelf portion  98 ′ to help maintain the integrity of the building roof. As described above for the flashing member  118 , the raised nature of the protrusion or projection  122 ′ above the remainder of the generally planar body portion  120 ′ of the flashing member  118 ′ substantially prevents any precipitation (i.e., rain water) from entering the structure of the building roof through the fastener aperture  124 . In the assembled state of the support surface attachment device  100 ′, in order to further prevent any leaks through the aperture  124  of the flashing member  118 ′, an upper sealing washer  84 ′ (see  FIGS. 76-78 ) is provided on the top of the annular collar portion  125  of the flashing raised portion  122 ′ of the flashing member  118 ′. 
     In the illustrated embodiment of  FIG. 78 , when the upstanding base member  90 ′ of the base assembly is assembled with the flashing member  118 ′, a top surface of the circumferential ledge portion  123  of the raised portion  122 ′ of the flashing member  118 ′ is configured to regulate a height of the top annular portion  125  of the raised portion  122 ′ of the flashing member  118 ′ so that a top rim of the top annular portion  125  of the raised portion  122 ′ does not protrude substantially above a top surface of the elevated shelf  98 ′ of the upstanding base member  90 ′. That is, in the illustrative embodiment, when the base member  90 ′ contacts the flashing member  118 ′, the top annular portion  125  protrudes a small predetermined distance above the top surface of the elevated shelf  98 ′. The interface between the base member  90 ′ and the flashing member  118 ′ dictates the height of the flashing protruding above the base web or shelf  98 ′, and it prevents the over compression of the sealing member  89  of the sealing washer  84 ′. The large radius at the base of the raised portion  122 ′ of the flashing member  118 ′ is designed to flex to accommodate various roof conditions further increasing the uniformity of sealing interface. 
     With combined reference to  FIGS. 76-78 , it can be seen that the upper sealing washer  84 ′ comprises a fastener aperture  86  disposed therethrough for accommodating the shaft of the structural mounting bolt  80 . The upper sealing washer  84 ′ is disposed between the bottom surface of the head portion  82  of the bolt  80  and the top surface of the elevated shelf portion  98 ′ of the base member  90 ′ to additionally prevent any leaks through the roof. As shown in  FIGS. 76-78 , the upper sealing washer  84 ′ comprises a top outer portion  87  and a bottom inner portion  89  disposed within, and underneath the top outer portion  87 . In one exemplary embodiment, the top outer portion  87  of the upper sealing washer  84 ′ may be formed from stainless steel and the bottom inner portion  89  of the upper sealing washer  84 ′ may be formed from a suitable plastic or rubber, such as ethylene propylene diene monomer (EPDM). In one or more embodiments, the upper sealing washer  84 ′ is a cup washer that is configured to control the type and/or amount of washer compression so that, when compressed by the tightening of the bolt  80 , the EPDM inner portion  89  of the washer  84 ′ will not enter into the annular gap between the outer surface of the flashing annular collar portion  125  and the inner circular wall of the flashing/fastener aperture  102  in the base shelf portion  98 ′ of the base member  90 ′. That is, the compression of the upper sealing washer  84 ′ is regulated so as to seal around the outer sidewall of the flashing annular collar portion  125 , but not enter the annular gap between the flashing annular collar portion  125  and the inner circular wall of the flashing/fastener aperture  102 , thereby creating an efficient waterproof seal for the base assembly  128 ′. 
     As best shown in the illustrative embodiment of  FIG. 77 , the bottom inner portion  89  of the upper sealing washer  84 ′ may comprise a stepped and/or upwardly tapered bottom surface  85  so as to tightly engage the top rim of the flashing annular collar portion  125 , and to prevent the EPDM inner portion  89  of the washer  84 ′ from entering the fastener aperture  124  in the flashing member  118 ′ (see  FIGS. 37 and 78 ). 
     Advantageously, the design of the flashing member  118 ′ illustrated in  FIGS. 34, 37 , and  78  results in superior waterproofing because its water seal is elevated above the roof surface (i.e., at the top of the raised portion or projection  122 ′) so that the integrity of the flashing waterproofing is maintained. Also, because the flashing member  118 ′ may be formed by stamping, its manufacturing costs are inexpensive. In addition, the configuration of the flashing member  118 ′ allows adjacent flashing members  118 ′ to be readily stacked for compact shipping. 
     With reference to  FIG. 36 , in the illustrative embodiment, the base assembly  128 ′ may be further provided with a serrated washer  54 ′ disposed between the ledge portion  123  of the flashing raised portion  122 ′ and the bottom surface of the elevated shelf portion  98 ′ of the base member  90 ′ when the base member  90 ′ is disposed on top of the flashing member  118 ′ in the assembled state of the support surface attachment device  100 ′. The serrated washer  54 ′ is used for electrically grounding the base assembly  128 ′ by creating a current path between the base member  90 ′ and the flashing member  118 ′. In  FIG. 36 , it can be seen that the serrated washer  54 ′ includes an outer annular body portion  56 ′ with a plurality of diagonally-oriented teeth  58 ′ extending radially inward from the outer annular body portion  56 ′. The diagonally-oriented teeth  58 ′ of the serrated washer  54 ′ are designed to cut into the adjacent surfaces of the base member  90 ′ and the flashing member  118 ′ so as to provide an electrical grounding path between the two components so that the two components are electrically bonded to one another. 
     Now, with reference to  FIGS. 40-42 , it can be seen that, like the coupling assembly  130  described above, the second illustrative embodiment of the coupling assembly  130 ′ generally includes an upper coupling member  140 ′ secured to a lower coupling member  150 ′. As best shown in the assembled view of  FIG. 40 , the upper coupling member  140 ′ and the lower coupling member  150 ′ are connected to one another by means of one or more threaded fastener members  168  (e.g., two (2) threaded fastener members  168 ) and one or more respective captive nuts  170  (e.g., two (2) captive nuts  170 , one for each threaded fastener member  168 ). In the illustrated embodiment, each threaded fastener member  168  is in the form of a bolt with a head portion having a serrated flange (e.g., refer to  FIG. 40 ). 
     Turning to  FIG. 41 , the structure of the upper coupling member  140 ′ will be described. As shown in this figure, the upper coupling member  140 ′ generally includes a base portion  142 ′ that is attached to the bottom surface of a flange portion  144   a ,  144   b  at approximately a 90 degree angle. In this figure, it can be seen that one side surface of base portion  142 ′ comprises a plurality of elongate protrusions or teeth  148 ′ that are each spaced apart from one another by respective elongate grooves  149 ′. As will be described hereinafter, the plurality of elongate protrusions or teeth  148 ′ matingly engage with elongate protrusions or teeth  160 ′ disposed on the first opposed wall portion  154   a ′ of the upstanding middle portion  152 ′ of the lower coupling member  150 ′. Referring again to  FIG. 41 , it can be seen that the flange portion  144   a ,  144   b  of the upper coupling member  140  further comprises a plurality of fastener apertures  143 ,  145  for receiving respective threaded fastener members  168  and a downwardly protruding member  147 ′ that forms a back surface against which a photovoltaic module rests when disposed in the coupling assembly  130 . In the illustrative embodiment of  FIG. 41 , it can be seen that each of fastener apertures  143  has a generally oval shape, while the fastener apertures  145  has a generally circular shape. Also, as shown in  FIG. 41 , each of the flange portions  144   a ,  144   b  includes an elongate groove  146 ′ disposed in the bottom surface thereof. Each of the elongate grooves  146 ′ is configured to receive one or more projection portions  49 ,  49 ′ of the bonding clip  42 ′,  42 ″ that provides integrated grounding for the photovoltaic module installation. The projection portion  49 ,  49 ′ of each bonding clip  42 ′,  42 ″ is received within its respective elongate groove  146 ′ in a press-fit or interference-fit type mounting arrangement. Turning to  FIG. 41 , it can be seen that a top surface of flanged portion  144   a ,  144   b  of the upper coupling member  140 ′ may include a plurality of visual installation guide marks  386  to indicate locational limits of mounting the one or more photovoltaic modules within the coupling device  130 ′ (i.e., location limits of mounting against the PV modules). 
     Next, turning to  FIG. 42 , the structure of the lower coupling member  150 ′ will be explained. With reference to this figure, it can be seen that the lower coupling member  150 ′ generally includes an upstanding middle portion  152 ′ with first and second ledge portions  156 ,  158  extending outwardly from the upstanding middle portion  152 ′. In  FIG. 42 , it can be seen that the upstanding middle portion  152 ′ of the lower coupling member  150 ′ comprises spaced-apart lower fastener apertures disposed in a bottom wall portion thereof, and spaced-apart upper fastener apertures  155  disposed in a top wall portion  153 ′ thereof. Each of these apertures receives a respective shaft of a respective threaded fastener member  168 . The bottom wall portion and the top wall portion  153 ′ of the upstanding middle portion  152 ′ of the lower coupling member  150 ′ are connected to one another by first and second opposed wall portions  154   a ′,  154   b ′. As shown in  FIG. 42 , the first opposed wall portion  154   a ′ comprises a plurality of elongate protrusions or teeth  160 ′ that are each spaced apart from one another by respective elongate grooves  162 ′. As explained above, the elongate teeth  160 ′ of the first opposed wall portion  154   a ′ engage with the elongate teeth  148 ′ of the base portion  142 ′ of the upper coupling member  140 ′. Referring again to  FIG. 42 , it can be seen that the second opposed wall portion  154   b ′ comprises a plurality of elongate upwardly inclined protrusions or teeth  164 ′, one or more elongate downwardly inclined protrusions or teeth  165 , and one or more elongate V-shaped protrusions or teeth  167 . As shown in  FIG. 42 , the protrusions or teeth  164 ′,  165 ,  167  are spaced apart from one another by elongate grooves  166 ′. The protrusions or teeth  164 ′,  165 ,  167  on the second opposed wall portion  154   b ′ of the base portion  142 ′ of the lower coupling member  150 ′ are configured to engage with a wind deflector and/or a mounting skirt for deflecting wind up and over the photovoltaic array and/or improving the aesthetics of the array, as will be described hereinafter. Each of the first and second ledge portions  156 ,  158  of the lower coupling member  150  is configured to accommodate a photovoltaic module frame member resting thereon. As shown in  FIG. 42 , the protrusions or teeth  164 ′,  165 ,  167  of the lower coupling member  150 ′ comprise a plurality of mating protrusions or teeth  164 ′,  165 ,  167  disposed in alternating upward and downward orientations so that the coupling device  130 ′ is capable of remaining in engagement with the skirt member  174 ″ prior to the threaded fastening members  168  being tightened by an installer. For example, in one or more embodiments, the coupling device  130 ′ is initially slid on the skirt member  174 ″ by the installer, and once slid on, the coupling device  130 ′ will stay in place and the installer can take his or her hand off the coupling device  130 ′. The alternating protrusions or teeth  164 ′,  165 ,  167  of the lower coupling member  150 ′ allow the coupling device  130 ′ to stay in place on the skirt member  174 ″. 
     In the illustrated embodiment, one or more of the teeth or serrations  160 ′ on the lower coupling member  150 ′ are configured to engage one or more of the teeth or serrations  148 ′ on the upper coupling member  140 ′ when the threaded fasteners  168  are being tightened so as to maintain a minimum gap between the upper coupling member  140 ′ and the lower coupling member  150 ′ for receiving one or more photovoltaic module frames of one or more photovoltaic modules when the one or more photovoltaic modules are pivotably installed into a first side (e.g., north side) of the coupling assembly  130 ′. In an exemplary embodiment, the coupling assembly  130 ′ is designed to accept 32, 33, 35, 40, 45, and 50 millimeter (mm) PV modules. As such, in the exemplary embodiment, the serrations  148 ′,  160 ′ on the upper and lower coupling members  140 ′,  150 ′ are positioned to engage at the above mentioned dimensions. As the threaded fasteners  168  of the coupling are tightened, the downhill side of the coupling contacts a module (e.g., the south side of the coupling), and a torque is applied to the upper coupling member  140 ′ engaging the teeth. This allows the uphill side of the coupling (e.g., the north side of the coupling), to remain open, allowing the next module to slide in from above, and to be pivoted mounted in place. 
     With reference to  FIGS. 38, 39, and 72 , additional embodiments of the lower skirt member  174 ′,  174 ″ of the photovoltaic mounting system will be described. Initially, referring to the end view of  FIG. 72 , it can be seen that the skirt member  174 ′,  174 ″ is configured to be located on the southernmost edge of the array of PV modules. The skirt member  174 ′,  174 ″ is supported by spaced-apart support surface attachment devices  100 ′. In particular, as shown in the end view of  FIG. 72 , the skirt member  174 ″ engages with the upper clamp member  10 ′ and the lower clamp member  20 ′ of the clamp assembly  126 ′ of the support surface attachment device  100 ′. As shown in this figure, the skirt member  174 ″ is clampingly engaged by the upper clamp member  10 ′, and is additionally engaged by the teeth  34 ′ of the lower clamp member  20 ′ (e.g., on the south side of the clamp).  FIG. 72  also illustrates the photovoltaic module frame  372  of the photovoltaic module  374  engaged with the side of the clamp assembly  10 ′,  20 ′ that is opposite to the side on which the skirt member  174 ″ is engaged (e.g., the north side). 
     Now, with reference to  FIG. 85 , an alternative of a lower coupling member  150 ″ will be described. The lower coupling member  150 ″ of  FIG. 85  is similar in most respects to the lower coupling member  150 ′ of  FIG. 42  explained above. Although, unlike the lower coupling member  150 ′, the first and second ledge portions  156 ′,  158 ′ of the lower coupling member  150 ″ are provided with respective drainage troughs  157 ,  159  formed therein for draining water from one or more photovoltaic modules that incorporate a module drainage feature. 
     Referring again to  FIGS. 39 and 72 , the engagement between the skirt member  174 ″ and the lower clamp member  20 ′ will be explained in more detail. As shown in the end view of  FIG. 39 , a backside of the skirt member  174 ″ comprises a plurality of downwardly-directed protrusions or teeth  176 ′ and one or more upwardly-directed protrusions or teeth  180  that are spaced apart from one another by elongate grooves or gaps  178 ′,  184 . More particularly, the upper two (2) protrusions or teeth  176 ′ are spaced apart from one another by the narrow width elongate groove  178 ′, while the pair of upper protrusions or teeth  176 ′ are spaced apart from upwardly-directed protrusion or tooth  180  by a wide elongate groove or gap  184 . With reference to the end view of  FIG. 72 , it can be seen that at least some of the protrusions or teeth  176 ′,  180  of the skirt member  174 ″ matingly engage with at least some of the protrusions or teeth  34 ′ on the lower clamp member  20 ′. This engagement between the protrusions or teeth  34 ′,  176 ′,  180  enables the skirt member  174 ″ to be securely supported on the clamp assembly  126 ′. The protrusions or teeth  164 ′ on the lower coupling member  150 ′ engage with the protrusions or teeth  176 ′,  180  of the skirt member  174 ′″ in a manner that is generally the same as that of the protrusions or teeth  34 ′ on the lower clamp member  20 ′. Advantageously, the protrusions or teeth  176 ′,  180 ,  34 ′ on the skirt member  174 ″ and the lower clamp member  20 ′, respectively, allows the skirt member  174 ″ to be mounted at various heights relative to the lower clamp member  20 ′ so that the skirt member  174 ′ is capable of matching the height of many different PV modules. This is important because then the skirt member  174 ″ sets the gap size of the clamp assembly  126 ′ and the coupling assembly  130 ′ on the south row of the PV array to accept the first row of PV modules. 
     Another embodiment of the skirt member  174 ′ is illustrated in  FIG. 38 . The skirt member  174 ′ of  FIG. 38  is similar in many respects to the skirt member  174 ″ of  FIG. 39  that was described above. However, unlike the skirt member  174 ″, the skirt member  174 ′ of  FIG. 38  additionally comprises a V-shaped protrusions or tooth  182  disposed on the backside of the skirt member  174 ′. As shown in this figure, the V-shaped protrusions or tooth  182  is disposed between the bottommost downwardly-directed protrusion or tooth  176 ′ and the upwardly-directed protrusion or tooth  180 . The skirt member  174 ′ of  FIG. 38  is designed to be used with a PV array comprising PV modules with specific heights, while the skirt member  174 ″ of  FIG. 39  is designed to be used with a PV array comprised of PV modules of different heights. Advantageously, the upwardly-directed protrusions or teeth  34 ′ on the lower clamp member  20 ′, and the downwardly-directed protrusion or teeth  176 ′ on the skirt members  174 ′,  174 ″, allow the skirt members  174 ′,  174 ″ to be dropped into the clamp assemblies  126 ′ from the side, thereby greatly facilitating the installation of the PV array by obviating the need to slide the skirt members  174 ′,  174 ″ into the clamp assemblies  126 ′ from the end of the PV array. The skirt members  174 ′,  174 ″ are able to be slid into the coupling assemblies  130  without difficulty during the installation of the PV array. 
     Now, with reference to  FIGS. 48-71   79 , and  80 , various accessories of the sloped roof solar panel mounting system will be described. Initially, turning to  FIGS. 48-50 , the junction box bracket  198 ,  198 ′ will be explained. In the PV array, the junction box bracket  198 ,  198 ′ holds a junction box where PV module wires terminate at the end of the array. The junction box bracket  198 ,  198 ′ may be provided with pre-drilled holes or self-drilling/self-tapping screws may be used. A first embodiment of the junction box bracket  198  is shown in  FIG. 48 . In  FIG. 48 , it can be seen that the junction box bracket  198  comprises a base portion  200  and a flange portion  202 , which is disposed at approximately a ninety (90) degree angle relative to the base portion  200 . The flange portion  202  of the junction box bracket  198  is attached to the base member  90 ′ by a plurality of fasteners  210 . To facilitate the installation of the junction box bracket  198 , the fasteners  210  may be self-drilling and/or self-tapping type fasteners (i.e., self-drilling/self-tapping bolts or screws). 
     Like the first embodiment of the junction box bracket  198 , the second embodiment of the junction box bracket  198 ′ illustrated in  FIGS. 49 and 50  also comprises a base portion  200 ′ and a flange portion  202 ′ that is oriented at a substantially ninety (90) degree angle relative to the base portion  200 ′. However, as shown in these two figures, the base portion  200 ′ of the junction box bracket  198 ′ may be predrilled with a plurality of apertures  204  for mounting the junction box thereto. Also, the flange portion  202 ′ of the junction box bracket  198 ′ may be predrilled with a plurality of apertures  206  disposed along the length thereof for securing the junction box bracket  198 ′ to the base member  90 ′. In addition, as shown in  FIG. 49 , the junction box bracket  198 ′ may be provided with prepackaged fasteners  208  for mounting the junction box to the junction box bracket  198 ′ and/or for mounting the junction box bracket  198 ′ to the base member  90 ′. 
     A third embodiment of the junction box bracket is illustrated in  FIGS. 79 and 80 . Unlike the junction box brackets  198 ,  198 ′ of  FIGS. 48-50 , the junction box bracket  340  in  FIGS. 79 and 80  is in the form of a center-mounted junction box bracket. That is, the junction box bracket  340  is configured to be center-mounted on the base member  90 ′. In  FIGS. 79 and 80 , it can be seen that the junction box bracket  340  generally comprises a plate-like base portion  342 , a first flange portion  344 , and a second flange portion  346  spaced apart from the first flange portion  344 . The first and second flange portions  344 ,  346  extend from one side of the plate-like base portion  342  of the junction box bracket  340 , and together define a slot for receiving a cross-sectional portion of the base portion  90 ′ therein. As shown in these two figures, the plate-like base portion  342  of the junction box bracket  340  comprises a plurality of apertures  348  and a plurality of elongate slots  350  disposed therethrough for attaching a wide variety of different junction boxes to the junction box bracket  340 . Also, the first and second flange portions  344 ,  346  of the junction box bracket  340  may be predrilled with a plurality of apertures  352  disposed therethrough for accommodating fasteners that secure the junction box bracket  340  to the base member  90 ′. The aperture  352  mounted in the horizontal portion of the second flange portion  346  in  FIGS. 79 and 80  may be used for mounting a grounding lug. 
     A fourth embodiment of the junction box bracket is illustrated in  FIG. 84 . Unlike the junction box bracket  340  of  FIGS. 79 and 80 , the junction box bracket  340 ′ in  FIG. 84  is in the form of an offset-mounted junction box bracket. That is, the first and second flange portions  344 ′,  346 ′ of the junction box bracket  340 ′ are offset from a center position of the bracket base portion  342  in a widthwise direction of the bracket base portion  342  so as to facilitate a connection of one or more wires to the junction box (or other electrical accessory mounted on the bracket base portion  342 ) without the upstanding base member  90 ′ of the base assembly  128 ′ interfering with a routing of the one or more wires. 
     Next, with reference to  FIGS. 51-56 , the power accessory bracket  212  will be described. As shown in the perspective view of  FIG. 51 , the power accessory bracket  212  is used to mount a power accessory (such as a micro-inverter or optimizer) to the aluminum frame  226  of the photovoltaic (PV) module. The teeth  214  on the underside of the power accessory bracket  212  electrically connect the bracket to the aluminum frame  226  of the PV module (see  FIGS. 51 and 52 ). With combined reference to  FIGS. 51, 52, and 53 , it can be seen that the micro-inverter mounting plate  224  is attached to the power accessory bracket  212  by means of a threaded fastener  218  (e.g., a bolt) and a captive nut  220  that threadingly engages with the fastener  218 . As shown in  FIG. 54 , the captive nut  220  has a threaded aperture  222  that receives the shaft of the threaded fastener  218 . During the assembly of the components, the captive nut  220  is pressed into the central aperture  216  of the power accessory bracket  212 . In  FIG. 56 , it can be seen that threaded fastener  218 , like the threaded fastener member  38  described above, is provided with a head portion having a serrated flange  219  for electrical grounding/bonding purposes. 
     Turning to  FIGS. 57-63 , the north row extension assembly  250  of the PV array mounting system will be explained. Initially, with reference to  FIGS. 57 and 58 , it can be seen that the illustrative embodiment of the north row extension assembly  250  generally includes a north row extension member  230  and an upper end clamp member  252 . As best shown in the assembled view of  FIG. 57 , the upper end clamp member  252  and the north row extension member  230  are connected to one another by means of a threaded fastener member  270  and a captive nut  228 . Similar to the threaded fastener member  38  described above, the threaded fastener member  270  is in the form of a bolt with a head portion having a serrated flange  272  (refer to  FIG. 61 ). As shown in  FIG. 59 , the captive nut  228  has a threaded aperture  229  that receives the shaft of the threaded fastener  270 . The north row extension assembly  250  attaches to a base member  90 ′ of the PV array mounting system by means of a pair of threaded fastener members  264  that threadingly engage with respective strut nuts  72 . A pair of threaded fastener members  264  and corresponding strut nuts  72  are used for securing the north row extension assembly  250  to the base member  90 ′, rather than just a single threaded fastener member  264  and strut nut  72 , in order to provide added stability. Like the end clamp threaded fastener  270 , the threaded fastener member  264  of the illustrative embodiment is in the form of a bolt with a head portion having a serrated flange  266  (refer to  FIG. 62 ). Also, as shown in  FIG. 62 , the top surface of the head portion of the threaded fastener member  264  is provided with a visual indicator line  268  formed therein for indicating the orientation of the strut nut  72  that is threadingly engaged with the threaded fastener member  264 . The north row extension assembly  250  is used when a clamp located at or near the peak of the roof is desired and it would be difficult or not possible to install a flashing at that location because there are not enough shingle courses up-roof of the location to allow the flashing to be installed. As a result, the flashing member  118 ′ is required to be placed under a shingle course that is two courses down from the peak of the roof. The north row extension assembly  250  operates as a cantilevered mounting arm for securing the north row edge of the PV module array. 
     Now, with reference primarily to  FIG. 63 , the structure of the north row extension member  230  of the north row extension assembly  250  will be described. As shown in  FIG. 63 , like the glider member  60 ′ described above, it can be seen that the north row extension member  230  comprises a generally inverted, U-shaped profile with a top wall portion  236  and first and second opposed wall portions  238 ,  240  extending downwardly from the top wall portion  236 . The top wall portion  236  comprises a plurality of spaced-apart fastener apertures  234  disposed near a first longitudinal end thereof for receiving the strut nut fastener members  264  described above, and a single fastener aperture  242  disposed near the second, opposite longitudinal end thereof for receiving the end clamp fastener  270 . The plurality of spaced-apart fastener strut apertures  234  advantageously permits the locations of the strut nut fastener members  264  to be adjusted. In  FIG. 63 , it can be seen that the inner surfaces of each of the first and second opposed wall portions  238 ,  240  comprises a pair of elongate protrusions or teeth  244  that are spaced apart from one another by a respective elongate groove  246 . The pair of teeth  244  on each of the inner surfaces of the opposed wall portions  238 ,  240  are designed to engage with respective teeth  110  on opposed upstanding wall portions  104   a ′,  104   b ′ of the base member  90 ′. The north row extension member  230  may be slid into place on the top of the base member  90 ′ by engaging its teeth  244  with the teeth  110  of the base member  90 ′. To permit horizontal adjustability, the north row extension member  230  is capable of being slid along the length of the base member  90 ′. And, to permit vertical adjustability, the north row extension member  230  is capable of being adjustably placed along a vertical height of the upstanding wall portions  104   a ′,  104   b ′ of the base member  90 ′ by selectively engaging certain ones of the teeth  244  on the north row extension member  230  with certain ones of the grooves  112  on the base member  90 ′, and the groove  246  on the north row extension member  230  with a certain one of the teeth  110  on the base member  90 ′. 
     As best shown in  FIG. 63 , the outer sides of the first and second opposed wall portions  238 ,  240  of the north row extension member  230  are provided with a plurality of generally parallel, visual indicator grooves  232  formed therein (e.g., three (3) visual indicator grooves  232 ). During the installation of the PV modules, the visual indicator grooves  232  operate as visual indicating bands for positioning the north row extension member  230  at its desired height (i.e., the visual indicator grooves  232  enable the desired height of the north row extension member  230  relative to the base member  90 ′ to be more easily obtained by the installer during the PV module installation process). 
     Next, turning to  FIG. 60 , the structure of the upper end clamp member  252  will be explained. The upper end clamp member  252  secures the north edge of the PV module in the PV array. As shown in this figure, the upper end clamp member  252  generally includes a vertical body portion  254  that is attached to a horizontal flange portion  260  at approximately a 90 degree angle. In this figure, it can be seen that vertical body portion  254  of the upper end clamp member  252  has an offset  256  formed therein. Referring again to  FIG. 60 , it can be seen that the flange portion  260  of the upper end clamp member  252  further comprises a fastener aperture  258  for receiving the threaded fastener member  270 . Also, as shown in  FIG. 60 , the flange portion  260  includes an elongate groove  262  disposed in the bottom surface thereof. The elongate groove  262  of the upper end clamp member  252  is configured to receive a projection portion  49 ′ of a respective bonding clip  42 ″ (see  FIG. 58 ) that provides integrated grounding for the photovoltaic module installation. The projection portion  49 ′ of the bonding clip  42 ″ is received within the elongate groove  262  of upper end clamp member  252  in a press-fit or interference-fit type mounting arrangement. 
     Turning to  FIGS. 82 and 83 , an alternative embodiment of the north row extension assembly  250 ′ of the PV array mounting system will be described. The north row extension assembly  250 ′ of  FIGS. 82 and 83  is similar in many respect to the north row extension assembly  250  explained above. However, unlike the north row extension assembly  250  of  FIG. 57 , the north row extension assembly  250 ′ utilizes a clamp assembly comprising the upper clamp member  10  and the lower clamp member  20 ′ described above, rather than the upper end clamp member  252 . In a similar manner to that described above for the support surface attachment device  100 ′, the clamp members  10 ,  20 ′ are used to secure one or more photovoltaic modules to the north row extension assembly  250 ′. Turning again to  FIGS. 82 and 83 , it can be seen that the north row extension member  230 ′ of the north row extension assembly  250 ′ is slightly different that the north row extension member  230  described above. For example, the north row extension member  230 ′ contains a greater number of spaced-apart fastener apertures  234  than the north row extension member  230 , and the north row extension member  230 ′ contains an elongated slot  242 ′ for receiving the clamp fastener  270 ′, rather than a circular aperture  242 . Rather than being provided with the captive nut  228  at the distal end thereof, the clamp fastener  270 ′ is provided with a modified strut nut  227  for securing the clamp assembly to the north row extension member  230 ′. 
     Referring to the exploded view of  FIG. 58 , the O-ring member  248  of the north row extension assembly  250  is used to maintain a predetermined spacing distance or gap between the flange portion  260  of the upper end clamp member  252  and the top wall portion  236  of the north row extension member  230 . In other words, the O-ring member  248  is used to hold upper end clamp member  252  open so that a PV module may be more easily inserted between the flange portion  260  of the upper end clamp member  252  and the top wall portion  236  of the north row extension member  230  during the installation of the PV module array on the roof. 
     An embodiment of an upstanding tile base member  274  is illustrated in  FIG. 64 . The upstanding tile base member  274  of  FIG. 64  is configured to be attached to a PV tile mounting solution (such as a tile replacement bracket or a tile hook). The tile base member  274  is capable of being used in any location within the array. Referring to  FIG. 64 , it can be seen that the upstanding tile base member  274  generally comprises a base portion  276  and a pair of opposed first and second upstanding wall portions  278 ,  280  extending upwardly from the base portion  276  of the upstanding tile base member  274 . In  FIG. 64 , it can be seen that the outer surfaces of each of the first and second opposed upstanding wall portions  278 ,  280  comprises a plurality of elongate protrusions or teeth  286  that are each spaced apart from one another by respective elongate grooves  288 . The set of teeth  286  on each of the outer surfaces of the opposed wall portions are designed to engage with the respective teeth  68 ′ on the opposed wall portions  66   a ′,  66   b ′ of the glider member  60 ′. Also, as shown in  FIG. 64 , the opposed wall portions  278 ,  280  of the upstanding tile base member  274  cooperate to define an upper elongate slot  282  that accommodates the shaft of the threaded fastener member  38  passing therethrough. Also, each of the opposed wall portions  278 ,  280  comprises a downturned lip portion  284  that is received within a respective one of the elongate grooves  76  disposed in the top surface of the strut nut  72 . 
     An alternative embodiment of the upstanding tile base member is shown in  FIG. 87 . The upstanding tile base member  274 ′ of  FIG. 87  is similar in most respects to the upstanding tile base member  274  described above. However, as shown in  FIG. 87 , the upstanding tile base member  274 ′ has a longer profile length as compared to the base member  274  of  FIG. 64 . 
     Turning to  FIGS. 65-67 , the south row mounting assembly  290  of the PV array mounting system will be explained. Initially, with reference to  FIGS. 65 and 66 , it can be seen that the illustrative embodiment of the south row mounting assembly  290  generally includes an elongated glider member  292  and an upper end clamp member  252 . As best shown in the assembled view of  FIG. 65  and the exploded view of  FIG. 66 , the upper end clamp member  252  and the elongated glider member  292  are connected to one another by means of a threaded fastener member  270  and a captive nut  228 . The south row mounting assembly  290  attaches to a base member  90 ′ of the PV array mounting system by means of a threaded fastener member  264  that threadingly engages with a strut nut  72 . The south row mounting assembly  290  may be used on the south edge of the PV module array in lieu of the double clamp assembly  126 ′ and the skirt member  174 ′,  174 ″. From an aesthetic standpoint, the south row mounting assembly  290  may be used as an alternative to the skirt member  174 ′,  174 ″. 
     Now, with reference primarily to  FIG. 67 , the structure of the elongated glider member  292  of the south row mounting assembly  290  will be described. As shown in  FIG. 67 , like the glider member  60 ′ described above, it can be seen that the elongated glider member  292  comprises a generally inverted, U-shaped profile with a top wall portion  298  and first and second opposed wall portions  300 ,  302  extending downwardly from the top wall portion  298 . The top wall portion  236  comprises a first fastener aperture  296  disposed near a first longitudinal end thereof for receiving the strut nut fastener member  264  described above, and a second fastener aperture  304  disposed near the second, opposite longitudinal end thereof for receiving the end clamp fastener  270 . In  FIG. 67 , it can be seen that the inner surfaces of each of the first and second opposed wall portions  300 ,  302  comprises a pair of elongate protrusions or teeth  306  that are spaced apart from one another by a respective elongate groove  308 . The pair of teeth  306  on each of the inner surfaces of the opposed wall portions  300 ,  302  are designed to engage with respective teeth  110  on opposed upstanding wall portions  104   a ′,  104   b ′ of the base member  90 ′. The elongated glider member  292  may be slid into place on the top of the base member  90 ′ by engaging its teeth  306  with the teeth  110  of the base member  90 ′. To permit horizontal adjustability, the elongated glider member  292  is capable of being slid along the length of the base member  90 ′. And, to permit vertical adjustability, the elongated glider member  292  is capable of being adjustably placed along a vertical height of the upstanding wall portions  104   a ′,  104   b ′ of the base member  90 ′ by selectively engaging certain ones of the teeth  306  on the elongated glider member  292  with certain ones of the grooves  112  on the base member  90 ′, and the groove  308  on the elongated glider member  292  with a certain one of the teeth  110  on the base member  90 ′. 
     As best shown in  FIG. 67 , the outer sides of the first and second opposed wall portions  300 ,  302  of the elongated glider member  292  are provided with a plurality of generally parallel, visual indicator grooves  294  formed therein (e.g., three (3) visual indicator grooves  294 ). During the installation of the PV modules, the visual indicator grooves  294  operate as visual indicating bands for positioning the south row mounting assembly  290  at its desired height (i.e., the visual indicator grooves  294  enable the desired height of the south row mounting assembly  290  relative to the base member  90 ′ to be more easily obtained by the installer during the PV module installation process). Because the upper end clamp member  252  of the south row mounting assembly  290  is generally the same as that described above for the north row extension assembly  250 , in the interest of brevity, it will not be described again in conjunction with the south row mounting assembly  290 . 
     Referring to the exploded view of  FIG. 66 , the O-ring member  248  of the south row mounting assembly  290  performs the same functionality as described above for the north row extension assembly  250 . That is, the O-ring member  248  is used to hold upper end clamp member  252  open so that a PV module may be more easily inserted between the flange portion  260  of the upper end clamp member  252  and the top wall portion  298  of the south row mounting assembly  290  during the installation of the PV module array on the roof. 
     Next, referring to  FIGS. 68-71 , the south row, single-sided coupling assembly  310  of the PV array mounting system will be explained. Similar to the coupling assemblies  130 ,  130 ′ described above, south row coupling assembly  310  generally includes an upper coupling member  312  secured to a lower coupling member  324 . As best shown in the assembled view of  FIG. 68 , the upper coupling member  312  and the lower coupling member  324  are connected to one another by means of one or more threaded fastener members  168  (e.g., two (2) threaded fastener members  168 ) and one or more respective captive nuts  170  (e.g., two (2) captive nuts  170 , one for each threaded fastener member  168 ). In the illustrated embodiment, each threaded fastener member  168  is in the form of a bolt with a head portion having a serrated flange (e.g., refer to  FIG. 68 ). The south row coupling assembly  310  may be used on the south edge of the PV module array when the south row mounting assembly  290  is used in lieu of providing the skirt member  174 ′,  174 ″ on the south row. As shown in  FIGS. 70 and 71 , unlike the coupling assembly  130 ′ described above, the upper and lower coupling members  312 ,  324  of the skirtless coupling assembly  310  do not comprise any mating teeth or protrusions disposed thereon. 
     Turning to  FIG. 70 , the structure of the upper coupling member  312  of the south row coupling assembly  310  will be described. As shown in this figure, the upper coupling member  312  generally includes a vertical body portion  314  that is attached to a horizontal flange portion  316  at approximately a 90 degree angle. Referring again to  FIG. 70 , it can be seen that the flange portion  316  of the upper coupling member  312  further comprises a plurality of fastener apertures  318 ,  320  for receiving respective threaded fastener members  168 . In the illustrative embodiment of  FIG. 70 , it can be seen that the first fastener aperture  318  has a generally oval shape, while the second fastener aperture  320  has a generally circular shape. Also, as shown in  FIG. 70 , the flange portion  316  includes an elongate groove  322  disposed in the bottom surface thereof. The elongate groove  316  is configured to receive one or more projection portions  49 ,  49 ′ of the bonding clip  42 ′,  42 ″ that provides integrated grounding for the photovoltaic module installation (see e.g.,  FIG. 69 ). The projection portion  49 ,  49 ′ of the bonding clip  42 ′,  42 ″ is received within the elongate groove  316  in a press-fit or interference-fit type mounting arrangement. 
     Next, turning to  FIG. 72 , the structure of the lower coupling member  324  of the south row coupling assembly  310  will be explained. With reference to this figure, it can be seen that the lower coupling member  324  generally includes an upstanding portion  326  with a ledge portion  336  extending outwardly from one side of the upstanding portion  326 . In  FIG. 71 , it can be seen that the upstanding portion  326  of the lower coupling member  324  comprises spaced-apart threaded fastener apertures  334  disposed therethrough. Each of these apertures  334  receives a respective shaft of a respective threaded fastener member  168 . The upstanding portion  326  of the lower coupling member  324  further comprises a top wall portion  328  and first and second opposed wall portions  330 ,  332  extending downwardly from the top wall portion  328 . The ledge portion  336  of the lower coupling member  324  is configured to accommodate a photovoltaic module frame member resting thereon (i.e., a frame member of a south row PV module). 
     Referring to the exploded view of  FIG. 69 , the O-ring member  248  of the south row coupling assembly  310  performs generally the same functionality as described above for the north row extension assembly  250  and the south row mounting assembly  290 . That is, the O-ring member  248  is used to hold upper coupling member  312  open so that a PV module may be more easily inserted between the flange portion  316  of the upper coupling member  312  and the ledge portion  336  of the lower coupling member  324  during the installation of the PV module array on the roof. 
     Now, turning to  FIG. 86 , an illustrative embodiment of a conduit mounting member  360  will be described. The conduit mounting member  360  is configured to couple electrical conduit of a photovoltaic system to an upstanding base member  90 ′ of a base assembly  128 ′. The conduit mounting member  360  is configured to mount a conduit strap or other conduit holding device such that conduit of a photovoltaic system can be mounted to the conduit mounting member  360 . As shown in  FIG. 86 , the conduit mounting member  360  includes a generally vertical securement portion  362  comprising a plurality of spaced-apart mounting apertures  364  for attaching the conduit mounting member  360  to the upstanding base member  90 ′ (e.g., by using one or more tek screws). The conduit mounting member  360  further comprises a generally horizontal conduit mounting portion  366  connected to the generally vertical securement portion  362 . The conduit mounting portion  366  comprises a plurality of spaced-apart securement apertures  368  for attaching the electrical conduit to the conduit mounting member  360  (e.g., by using a conduit strap). As shown in the illustrative embodiment of  FIG. 86 , the conduit mounting member  360  resembles the shape of angle iron flange, wherein the generally vertical securement portion  362  is disposed generally transversely relative to the horizontal conduit mounting portion  366 . 
     Turning to  FIG. 88 , an illustrative photovoltaic system  400  utilizing the constituent mounting system components described herein is shown.  FIG. 88  illustrates a roof-mounted photovoltaic (PV) system or array according to an embodiment of the present invention. The illustrated photovoltaic system or array includes an array of solar panels or PV modules  374  mounted to a pitched or sloped support surface in the form of a building rooftop  370  by a mounting system. For clarity of illustration of the mounting components, the photovoltaic module frames  372  are primarily shown in  FIG. 88  rather than the full modules  374 , with one exemplary full PV module  374  illustrated in the south row. In  FIG. 88 , there are three (3) rows of PV modules  374  illustrated for exemplary purposes, each of the first two rows having three (3) PV modules  374  disposed therein, and the third row (i.e., the north row) having only one PV modules  374  disposed therein. The illustrated mounting system includes a plurality of support surface attachment devices  100 ′ that secure the photovoltaic module frames  372  to the building rooftop  370 . The PV array illustrated in  FIG. 88  has each of the rectangular-shaped PV modules  374  oriented in a landscape orientation, that is, with the longest axis of the PV modules extending in a lateral or side-to-side direction which is typically the east-west direction. It is noted, however, that the PV modules can alternatively be oriented by the support surface attachment devices  100 ′ in a portrait orientation, that is, with the longest axis of the PV modules extending in a forward-rearward direction which is typically the south-north direction. With reference again to  FIG. 88 , it can be seen that the illustrated mounting system also includes a plurality of coupling devices  130 ′ that rigidly fasten a plurality of PV modules  374  to one another. As shown in  FIG. 88 , the coupling devices  130 ′ connect the corners of adjacent PV modules  374  together. Also, an exemplary section of a skirt member  174 ″ is depicted on the south edge of the PV array in  FIG. 88 . On the north edge of the PV array in  FIG. 88 , north row extension assemblies  250 ′ are shown supporting the north side of a photovoltaic module frame  372  in a cantilevered manner. As explained above, the north row extension assemblies  250 ′ advantageously allows an additional north row of PV modules to be installed in the array at or near the ridge/peak of the  370  where support surface attachment devices  100 ′ are unable to be accommodated on the north sides of the PV modules (e.g., because shingle courses are unable to be loosened in roof ridge area). Referring again to  FIG. 88 , it can be seen that a junction box bracket  340 ′ is mounted to the upstanding base member  90 ′ of the support surface attachment devices  100 ′ of the leftmost PV module in the second row of the PV module array to support a junction box or other electrical accessory of the photovoltaic system. 
     Another illustrative embodiment of a clamp assembly is seen generally at  126 ″ in  FIGS. 89-93 . Referring to these figures, it can be seen that, in some respects, the illustrative embodiment of  FIGS. 89-93  is similar to that of the preceding embodiments of the clamp assembly. Moreover, some elements are common to all of these embodiments. For the sake of brevity, the elements that the embodiment of the clamp assembly of  FIGS. 89-93  has in common with the preceding embodiments will not be discussed in detail because these components have already been described above. 
     Initially, with reference to  FIGS. 89 and 92 , it can be seen that the illustrative clamp assembly  126 ″ generally includes an upper clamp member  402 , a lower clamp member  414 , and a glider member  60 ′ to engage with the base assembly. Also, as shown in  FIGS. 89 and 92 , the upper clamp member  402 , lower clamp member  414 , and the glider member  60 ′ are connected to one another by means of a threaded fastener member  38  and a strut nut  72 . The threaded fastener member  38  and strut nut  72  are the same as those described above in conjunction with the preceding embodiments. In addition, as shown in the exploded view of  FIG. 89 , like the embodiment of  FIG. 44  described above, an O-ring  196  is provided on the shaft of the threaded fastener member  38  to stabilize the clamp assembly on the glider member  60 ′ prior to installation. 
     Now, with reference to  FIGS. 107A-110 , the structure of the upper clamp member  402  of the clamp assembly in the embodiment of  FIGS. 89-93  will be described. Referring initially to the perspective view of  FIG. 107A , it can be seen that the upper clamp member  402  generally includes a pair of spaced-apart downwardly extending portions  408 ,  410  that are attached to a top clamp portion  404 . In the illustrative embodiment, each of the downwardly extending portions  408 ,  410  has a generally U-shaped cross-section, while the top clamp portion  404  comprises a central plate portion with a peripheral lip disposed therearound. Referring again to  FIGS. 107A and 110 , it can be seen that the top clamp portion  404  of the upper clamp member  402  further comprises a fastener aperture  406  for receiving the threaded fastener member  38 . Also, as best shown in  FIGS. 107A and 108 , the top clamp portion  404  of the upper clamp member  402  forms a pair of oppositely disposed flange portions for engaging the top surfaces of one or more photovoltaic modules. The first oppositely disposed flange portion of the top clamp portion  404  is shorter than the second oppositely disposed flange portion. Like the preceding embodiments described above, the upper clamp member  402  enables the one or more photovoltaic modules to be pivotably installed into the first side of the clamp assembly (e.g., into the side of clamp assembly with the short flange portion). In addition, as best illustrated in  FIGS. 107A and 107B , the shorter flange portion of the top clamp portion  404  of the upper clamp member  402  comprises integrated grounding means, which are configured to provide integrated grounding between adjacent photovoltaic modules. More particularly, in the illustrative embodiment, with reference to  FIGS. 107A and 107B , the integrated grounding means of the upper clamp member  402  comprises two spaced-apart grounding protrusions or teeth  412 . The downwardly inclined, pointed grounding protrusions or teeth  412  are designed to pierce the anodized layer of the photovoltaic module to provide integrated grounding between the photovoltaic modules. To facilitate integrated grounding between the photovoltaic modules, all of the components of the support surface attachment device and the coupling device may be formed from metal. 
     Next, turning to  FIGS. 103-106 , the structure of the lower clamp member  414  of the clamp assembly embodiment of  FIGS. 89-93  will be explained. Referring initially to the perspective view of  FIG. 103 , it can be seen that the lower clamp member  414  generally includes a pair of spaced-apart upwardly extending portions  416 ,  418  that are attached to a base portion  424 . In  FIG. 103 , it can be seen that the base portion  424  of the lower clamp member  414  comprises a fastener aperture  430  disposed therethrough. The fastener aperture  430  receives the shaft of the threaded fastener member  38 . Also, as best shown in  FIG. 103 , the base portion has a generally U-shaped cross-section with oppositely disposed first and second upturned edges  426 ,  428 . As best shown in the side view of  FIG. 104A , the base portion  424  of the lower clamp member  414  has two ledge portions, each of which is disposed on a respective opposite side of the upwardly extending portions  416 ,  418 . Each of the ledge portions of the base portion  424  of the lower clamp member  424  is configured to accommodate a photovoltaic module frame member resting thereon. Similar to that described above for the preceding embodiments of the lower clamp member, the upturned edges  426 ,  428  that form the opposed lateral sides of the clamp ledge portions each are tapered slightly upward at an acute angle (see  FIGS. 103 and 104A , so as to be capable of performing the same functionality explained above for the lower clamp members  20 ,  20 ′ (i.e., the ability for an installer to pivot the north row of PV modules into place). As shown in  FIGS. 103 and 104A , in the illustrative embodiment, the spaced-apart upwardly extending portions  416 ,  418  are in the form of first and second vertical walls. In the illustrative embodiment, each of the upwardly extending portions  416 ,  418  of the lower clamp member  414  comprises a pair of oppositely disposed, outwardly extending protrusions  420 . The outwardly extending protrusions  420  are configured to facilitate the holding open of the panel receiving gap of the clamp assembly during the installation of the photovoltaic modules. In the illustrative embodiment, the outwardly extending protrusions  420  are further configured to be deformed and/or severed from the remainder of the upwardly extending portion  416 ,  418  of the lower clamp member  414  when the fastener member  38  of the clamp assembly is tightened (i.e., the outwardly extending protrusions  420  are in the form of breakaway protrusions). As best shown in  FIGS. 103, 104A, and 104B , a skirt receiving notch  422  is provided next to each of the upwardly extending portions  416 ,  418  of the lower clamp member  414 . The skirt receiving notches  422  are configured to receive a downturned edge portion  600  of a skirt member  596  (see  FIGS. 160 and 161 ). As shown in  FIG. 161 , the skirt member  596  comprises a body portion  598  with the downturned edge portion  600  disposed on the north side of the body portion  598 . 
     In the illustrative embodiment of the clamp assembly described above, the spaced-apart downwardly extending portions  408 ,  410  of the upper clamp member  402  are configured to engage with the upwardly extending portions  416 ,  418  of the lower clamp member  414  so as to hold open the panel receiving gap of the clamp assembly for facilitating an insertion of the one or more photovoltaic modules after the fastener member  38  of the clamp assembly has been partially tightened (i.e., to allow for the universal setting of the clamp). 
     Yet another illustrative embodiment of a clamp assembly is seen generally at  126 ′″ in  FIGS. 94-98 . Referring to these figures, it can be seen that, in some respects, the illustrative embodiment of  FIGS. 94-98  is similar to that of the preceding embodiments of the clamp assembly. Moreover, some elements are common to all of these embodiments. For the sake of brevity, the elements that the embodiment of the clamp assembly of  FIGS. 94-98  has in common with the preceding embodiments will not be discussed in detail because these components have already been described above. 
     Initially, with reference to  FIGS. 94 and 98 , it can be seen that the illustrative clamp assembly  126 ′″ generally includes an upper clamp member  432 , a lower clamp member  494 , and a glider member  60 ′ to engage with the base assembly. Also, as shown in  FIGS. 94 and 98 , the upper clamp member  432 , lower clamp member  494 , and the glider member  60 ′ are connected to one another by means of a threaded fastener member  38  and a strut nut  72 . The threaded fastener member  38  and strut nut  72  are the same as those described above in conjunction with the preceding embodiments. 
     Now, with reference to  FIGS. 123A-126 , the structure of the upper clamp member  432  of the clamp assembly embodiment of  FIGS. 94-98  will be described. Referring initially to the perspective view of  FIG. 123A , it can be seen that the upper clamp member  432  generally includes a pair of spaced-apart downwardly extending portions  438 ,  440  that are attached to a top clamp portion  434 . In the illustrative embodiment, each of the downwardly extending portions  438 ,  440  has a generally U-shaped cross-section, while the top clamp portion  434  comprises a middle plate portion with oppositely disposed flanged portions. Referring again to  FIGS. 123A and 126 , it can be seen that the top clamp portion  434  of the upper clamp member  432  further comprises a fastener aperture  436  for receiving the threaded fastener member  38 . Also, as best shown in  FIGS. 123A and 125 , the top clamp portion  434  of the upper clamp member  432  forms a pair of oppositely disposed flange portions for engaging the top surfaces of one or more photovoltaic modules. The first oppositely disposed flange portion of the top clamp portion  434  is shorter than the second oppositely disposed flange portion. Like the preceding embodiments described above, the upper clamp member  432  enables the one or more photovoltaic modules to be pivotably installed into the first side of the clamp assembly (e.g., into the side of clamp assembly with the short flange portion). In addition, as best illustrated in  FIGS. 123A and 123B , the shorter flange portion of the top clamp portion  434  of the upper clamp member  432  comprises integrated grounding means, which are configured to provide integrated grounding between adjacent photovoltaic modules. More particularly, in the illustrative embodiment, with reference to  FIGS. 123A and 123B , the integrated grounding means of the upper clamp member  432  comprises two spaced-apart grounding protrusions or teeth  442 . The downwardly inclined, pointed grounding protrusions or teeth  442  are designed to pierce the anodized layer of the photovoltaic module to provide integrated grounding between the photovoltaic modules. To facilitate integrated grounding between the photovoltaic modules, all of the components of the support surface attachment device and the coupling device may be formed from metal. 
     Referring again to  FIGS. 123A and 123B , it can be seen that each of the downwardly extending portions  438 ,  440  of the upper clamp member  432  has a dimple  446  formed in a vertical side surface thereof. The dimples  446  of the upper clamp member  432  are configured to facilitate the holding open of the panel receiving gap of the clamp assembly. In the illustrative embodiment, as best shown in  FIGS. 123A and 125 , the top clamp portion  434  of the upper clamp member  432  further comprises a hemmed portion that forms a skirt receiving groove  444 . The skirt receiving groove  444  is configured to receive a downwardly extending hemmed upper edge portion  538  of a skirt member  534  (see  FIG. 168 ). As shown in  FIG. 168 , once the hemmed upper edge portion  538  of a skirt member  534  is inserted into the skirt receiving groove  444  of the upper clamp member  432 , the skirt member  534  is secured to the clamp assembly by means of the head of the fastener member  38  (i.e., the head of the fastener member  38  presses down on the top surface of the skirt member  534 ). 
     Next, turning to  FIGS. 99-102 , the structure of the lower clamp member  494  of the clamp assembly embodiment of  FIGS. 94-98  will be explained. Similar to that described above for the lower clamp members  20 ,  20 ′, it can be seen that the lower clamp member  494  generally includes an upstanding middle portion  495  with first and second ledge portions  497 ,  498  extending outwardly from the upstanding middle portion  495  (refer to  FIGS. 99 and 100 ). In  FIGS. 99 and 101 , it can be seen that the upstanding middle portion  495  of the lower clamp member  494  comprises a fastener aperture  496  disposed centrally therethrough. The fastener aperture  496  receives the shaft of the threaded fastener member  38 . As shown in  FIGS. 99 and 100 , the upstanding middle portion  495  of the lower clamp member  494  comprises a top wall portion with aperture  496  that is connected to first and second opposed vertical wall portions. Each of the first and second ledge portions  497 ,  498  of the lower clamp member  494  is configured to accommodate a photovoltaic module frame member resting thereon. As described above for the preceding embodiments of the lower clamp member  20 ,  20 ′, the second opposed ledge  498  of the lower clamp member  494  is bent slightly upward, or is tapered slightly upward at an acute angle, so as to be capable of performing the same functionality explained above for the lower clamp members  20 ,  20 ′ (i.e., the ability for an installer to pivot the north row of PV modules into place). 
     In the illustrative embodiment of the clamp assembly described above, the spaced-apart downwardly extending portions  438 ,  440  of the upper clamp member  432  are configured to engage with opposite sides of the upstanding middle portion  495  of the lower clamp member  494  so as to hold open the panel receiving gap of the clamp assembly for facilitating an insertion of the one or more photovoltaic modules after the fastener member  38  of the clamp assembly has been partially tightened (i.e., to allow for the universal setting of the clamp). 
     Advantageously, the panel receiving gap defined by the upper and lower clamp members  402 ,  414  and  432 ,  494  of the clamp assemblies described above is continuously adjustable by a user within the range between approximately 32 millimeters and approximately 50 millimeters so as to accommodate any photovoltaic module thickness within that range. That is, the clamp assemblies are capable of accommodating any photovoltaic module thickness between 32 millimeters and 50 millimeters, such as but not limited to, photovoltaic module thicknesses of 32 millimeters, 35 millimeters, 40 millimeters, 45 millimeters, and 46 millimeters. In the illustrative embodiment, the panel receiving gap defined by the upper and lower clamp members  402 ,  414  and  432 ,  494  of the clamp assemblies is not limited to incremental adjustment, rather it is continuously adjustable between 32 millimeters and 50 millimeters. In addition, the clamp assemblies with the upper and lower clamp members  402 ,  414  and  432 ,  494  are capable of being rotated 360 degrees relative to the base assembly of the support surface attachment device so as to accommodate various photovoltaic module mounting arrangements (e.g., the clamp members  402 ,  414  and  432 ,  494  could be rotated 90 degrees to accommodate a side mounting arrangement on the photovoltaic module). Further, the clamp assemblies with the upper and lower clamp members  402 ,  414  and  432 ,  494  are capable of being interchangeably used with or without a skirt member of a photovoltaic array (i.e., the same clamps can be used for both the middle rows of the array and the north and south rows of the array). The south row of the array with the skirt member does not require a different type of clamp for the skirt member. Also, advantageously, the clamp assemblies with the upper and lower clamp members  402 ,  414  and  432 ,  494  allow for the use of a universal skirt (i.e., it is unnecessary to use different skirts for different photovoltaic module heights). 
     Additional illustrative embodiments of the upper clamp member of the clamp assembly are depicted in  FIGS. 111A-114, 115A-118, and 119A-122 . These additional upper clamp members may also be used in conjunction with the support surface attachment device described herein. Initially, referring to the upper clamp member  448  illustrated in  FIGS. 111A-114 , it can be seen that the upper clamp member  448  generally includes a top clamp portion  450  with first and second hemmed skirt channel portions  454 ,  456  formed therein. Referring again to  FIGS. 111A and 112 , it can be seen that the top clamp portion  450  of the upper clamp member  448  further comprises a fastener aperture  452  for receiving the threaded fastener member  38 . In  FIG. 113 , it can be seen that each skirt channel portion  454 ,  456  forms a respective skirt receiving groove  460 ,  462 . Each of the skirt receiving grooves  460 ,  462  is configured to receive a downwardly extending hemmed upper edge portion of a skirt member. That is, the upper clamp member  448  may be rotated 180 degrees, and still be capable of receiving a skirt member. As described above for the upper clamp member  432 , once the hemmed upper edge portion of a skirt member  534  is inserted into one of the skirt receiving grooves  460 ,  462  of the upper clamp member  448 , the skirt member is secured to the clamp assembly by means of the head of the fastener member  38  (i.e., the head of the fastener member  38  presses down on the top surface of the skirt member). Also, like the top clamp portion  434  of the upper clamp member  432  described above, top clamp portion  450  of the upper clamp member  448  forms a pair of oppositely disposed flange portions for engaging the top surfaces of one or more photovoltaic modules. In addition, like the top clamp portion  434  of the upper clamp member  432 , one of the flange portions of the top clamp portion  450  of the upper clamp member  448  comprises integrated grounding means, which are configured to provide integrated grounding between adjacent photovoltaic modules. More particularly, in the illustrative embodiment, with reference to  FIGS. 111A and 111B , the integrated grounding means of the upper clamp member  448  comprises two spaced-apart grounding protrusions or teeth  458 . The downwardly inclined, pointed grounding protrusions or teeth  458  are designed to pierce the anodized layer of the photovoltaic module to provide integrated grounding between the photovoltaic modules. 
     Next, with reference to  FIGS. 115A-118 , it can be seen that the upper clamp member  464  is similar in many respects to the upper clamp member  432  described above. Referring initially to the perspective view of  FIG. 115A , it can be seen that, like the upper clamp member  432 , the upper clamp member  464  generally includes a pair of spaced-apart downwardly extending portions  470 ,  472  that are attached to a top clamp portion  466 . In the illustrative embodiment, each of the downwardly extending portions  470 ,  472  has a generally U-shaped cross-section, while the top clamp portion  466  comprises a middle plate portion with oppositely disposed flanged portions. Referring again to  FIGS. 115A and 118 , it can be seen that the top clamp portion  466  of the upper clamp member  464  further comprises a fastener aperture  468  for receiving the threaded fastener member  38 . Also, as best shown in  FIGS. 115A and 117 , the top clamp portion  466  of the upper clamp member  464  forms a pair of oppositely disposed flange portions for engaging the top surfaces of one or more photovoltaic modules. The first oppositely disposed flange portions of the top clamp portion  466  are shorter than the second oppositely disposed flange portion. Like the preceding embodiments described above, the upper clamp member  464  enables the one or more photovoltaic modules to be pivotably installed into the first side of the clamp assembly (e.g., into the side of clamp assembly with the short flange portion). In addition, as best illustrated in  FIGS. 115A and 115B , the shorter flange portions of the top clamp portion  466  of the upper clamp member  464  comprises integrated grounding means, which are configured to provide integrated grounding between adjacent photovoltaic modules. More particularly, in the illustrative embodiment, with reference to  FIGS. 115A and 115B , the integrated grounding means of the upper clamp member  464  comprises two spaced-apart grounding protrusions or teeth  474 . The downwardly inclined, pointed grounding protrusions or teeth  474  are designed to pierce the anodized layer of the photovoltaic module to provide integrated grounding between the photovoltaic modules. Similar to the top clamp portion  434  of the upper clamp member  432 , the top clamp portion  466  of the upper clamp member  464  comprises a skirt receiving slot  476  that is configured to receive a downwardly extending hemmed upper edge portion of a skirt member. 
     Now, referring to  FIGS. 119A-122 , it can be seen that the upper clamp member  478  has similar features to the upper clamp members  432 ,  448  described above. Referring initially to the perspective view of  FIG. 119A , it can be seen that, like the upper clamp member  432 , the upper clamp member  478  generally includes a pair of spaced-apart downwardly extending portions  484 ,  486  that are attached to a top clamp portion  480 . In the illustrative embodiment, each of the downwardly extending portions  484 ,  486  has a generally U-shaped cross-section, while the top clamp portion  480  comprises a middle portion with oppositely disposed flanged portions. Referring again to  FIGS. 119A and 120 , it can be seen that the top clamp portion  480  of the upper clamp member  478  further comprises a fastener aperture  482  for receiving the threaded fastener member  38 . Also, as best shown in  FIGS. 119A and 121 , the top clamp portion  480  of the upper clamp member  478  forms a pair of oppositely disposed flange portions for engaging the top surfaces of one or more photovoltaic modules. Like the preceding embodiments described above, the upper clamp member  478  enables the one or more photovoltaic modules to be pivotably installed into the first side of the clamp assembly. Also, similar to the upper clamp member  448 , it can be seen that the top clamp portion  480  further comprises first and second hemmed skirt channel portions formed therein (see  FIGS. 119A and 121 ). Referring again to  FIGS. 119A and 121 , it can be seen that each skirt channel portion forms a respective skirt receiving groove  490 ,  492 . Each of the skirt receiving grooves  490 ,  492  is configured to receive a downwardly extending hemmed upper edge portion of a skirt member. That is, like the upper clamp member  448  described above, the upper clamp member  478  may be rotated 180 degrees, and still be capable of receiving a skirt member. As described above for the upper clamp members  432 ,  448 , once the hemmed upper edge portion of a skirt member is inserted into one of the skirt receiving grooves  490 ,  492  of the upper clamp member  478 , the skirt member is secured to the clamp assembly by means of the head of the fastener member  38  (i.e., the head of the fastener member  38  presses down on the top surface of the skirt member). Also, like the top clamp portion  450  of the upper clamp member  448  described above, top clamp portion  480  of the upper clamp member  478  forms a pair of oppositely disposed flange portions for engaging the top surfaces of one or more photovoltaic modules. In addition, like the top clamp portion  450  of the upper clamp member  448 , one of the flange portions of the top clamp portion  480  of the upper clamp member  478  comprises integrated grounding means, which are configured to provide integrated grounding between adjacent photovoltaic modules. More particularly, in the illustrative embodiment, with reference to  FIGS. 119A and 119B , the integrated grounding means of the upper clamp member  478  comprises two spaced-apart grounding protrusions or teeth  488 . The downwardly inclined, pointed grounding protrusions or teeth  488  are designed to pierce the anodized layer of the photovoltaic module to provide integrated grounding between the photovoltaic modules. 
     Turning to  FIGS. 127-131 , it can be seen that, like the coupling assemblies  130 ,  130 ′ described above, the illustrative embodiment of the coupling assembly  500  in  FIGS. 127-131  generally includes an upper coupling member  518  secured to a lower coupling member  502 . As best shown in the assembled view of  FIG. 130 , the upper coupling member  518  and the lower coupling member  502  are connected to one another by means of one or more threaded fastener members  168  (e.g., two (2) threaded fastener members  168 ). In the illustrated embodiment, each threaded fastener member  168  is in the form of a bolt with a head portion having a serrated flange (e.g., refer to  FIG. 129 ). 
     Now, with reference to  FIGS. 136-139B , the structure of the upper coupling member  518  will be described. Initially, as best shown in the perspective view of  FIG. 139A , the upper coupling member  518  generally includes a top coupling portion  520  with first and second hemmed skirt channel portions  524 ,  526  formed therein. Referring to  FIGS. 136 and 139A , it can be seen that the top coupling portion  520  of the upper coupling member  518  further comprises a plurality of fastener apertures  522  for receiving respective threaded fastener members  168  (e.g., two spaced-apart fastener apertures  522 ). In  FIG. 137 , it can be seen that each skirt channel portion  524 ,  526  forms a respective skirt receiving groove  530 ,  532 . Each of the skirt receiving grooves  530 ,  532  is configured to receive a downwardly extending hemmed upper edge portion of a skirt member. That is, the upper coupling member  518  may be rotated 180 degrees, and still be capable of receiving a skirt member. Similar to that described above for the upper clamp members, once the hemmed upper edge portion  538  of a skirt member  534  is inserted into one of the skirt receiving grooves  530 ,  532  of the upper coupling member  518 , the skirt member  534  is secured to the coupling assembly  500  by means of the heads of the fastener members  168  (i.e., the head of the fastener member  168  presses down on the top surface of the skirt member  534 —see  FIG. 170 ). Also, like the top clamp portions of the upper clamp members described above, top coupling portion  520  of the upper coupling member  518  forms a pair of oppositely disposed flange portions for engaging the top surfaces of one or more photovoltaic modules. In addition, like the top clamp portions of the upper clamp members, one of the flange portions of the top coupling portion  520  of the upper coupling member  518  comprises integrated grounding means, which are configured to provide integrated grounding between adjacent photovoltaic modules. More particularly, in the illustrative embodiment, with reference to  FIGS. 139A and 139B , the integrated grounding means of the upper coupling member  518  comprises a plurality of grounding protrusions or teeth  528  (e.g., two pairs of spaced-apart grounding teeth  528 ). The downwardly inclined, pointed grounding protrusions or teeth  528  are designed to pierce the anodized layer of the photovoltaic module to provide integrated grounding between the photovoltaic modules. 
     Next, turning to  FIGS. 132-135 , the structure of the lower coupling member  502  will be explained. Similar to that described above for the lower clamp member  494 , it can be seen that the lower coupling member  502  generally includes an upstanding middle portion  504  with first and second ledge portions  512 ,  514  extending outwardly from the upstanding middle portion  504  (refer to  FIGS. 132 and 135 ). In  FIGS. 132 and 133 , it can be seen that the upstanding middle portion  504  of the lower coupling member  502  comprises a plurality of threaded fastener apertures  506  disposed centrally therein (e.g., two spaced-apart fastener apertures  506 ). Each threaded fastener aperture  506  threadingly engages a respective shaft of a respective threaded fastener member  168 . Because each of the apertures  506  is internally threaded, the coupling assembly  500  does not require any nuts for the securement of the threaded fastener members  168  (i.e., the threaded fastener apertures  506  operate as built-in nuts). Each threaded fastener aperture  506  may comprise a plurality of extruded threads formed therein for threadingly engaging a plurality of external threads of the threaded fastener member  168  (i.e., bolt  168 ). To further stabilize the fastener members  168 , fastener holding protrusions  508  are formed in the sides of the upstanding middle portion  504  (see  FIGS. 132, 134, and 135 ). For example, fastener holding protrusions  508  may be in the form of inwardly punched tabs that hold the fastener members  168  in a vertical position. As shown in  FIGS. 132 and 135 , the upstanding middle portion  504  of the lower coupling member  502  comprises a top wall portion with the threaded apertures  506  that is connected to first and second opposed vertical wall portions. Each of the first and second ledge portions  512 ,  514  of the lower coupling member  502  is configured to accommodate a photovoltaic module frame member resting thereon. As described above for the preceding embodiments of the lower coupling members  150 ,  150 ′,  150 ″, the second opposed ledge  514  of the lower coupling member  502  is bent slightly upward, or is tapered slightly upward at an acute angle, so as to be capable of performing the same functionality explained above for the lower coupling members  150 ,  150 ′,  150 ″ (i.e., the ability for an installer to pivot the north row of PV modules into place). 
     Referring again to  FIGS. 132 and 133 , it can seen that, in the illustrative embodiment, the lower coupling member  502  further comprises a pair of drainage slots  510  formed therethrough for draining water from the one or more photovoltaic modules engaged with the coupling assembly  500 . In addition, in the illustrative embodiment, the lower coupling member  502  additionally comprises a plurality of diagonally-oriented water drainage channels  516  formed therein for draining water from one or more drainage weep holes of the one or more photovoltaic modules engaged with the coupling assembly  500 . Advantageously, the drainage slots  510  and water drainage channels  516  allow the draining of water from one or more photovoltaic modules that incorporate a module drainage feature. 
     Advantageously, similar to that described above for the clamp assemblies with upper and lower clamp members  402 ,  414  and  432 ,  494 , the panel receiving gap defined by the upper and lower coupling members  502 ,  518  of the coupling assembly  500  is continuously adjustable by a user within the range between approximately 32 millimeters and approximately 50 millimeters so as to accommodate any photovoltaic module thickness within that range. That is, the coupling assembly  500  is capable of accommodating any photovoltaic module thickness between 32 millimeters and 50 millimeters, such as but not limited to, photovoltaic module thicknesses of 32 millimeters, 35 millimeters, 40 millimeters, 45 millimeters, and 46 millimeters. In the illustrative embodiment, the panel receiving gap defined by the upper and lower coupling members  502 ,  518  of the coupling assembly  500  is not limited to incremental adjustment, rather it is continuously adjustable between 32 millimeters and 50 millimeters. In addition, the pair of ledges  512 ,  514  of the lower coupling member  502  and the pair of flange portions of the upper coupling member  518  allow the coupling assembly  500  to be rotated 180 degrees relative to the one or more photovoltaic modules so that the coupling assembly  500  is capable of being interchangeably used on north and south rows of a photovoltaic array. Further, the coupling assembly  500  with the upper and lower coupling members  502 ,  518  is capable of being interchangeably used with or without a skirt member of a photovoltaic array (i.e., the same coupling devices can be used for both the middle rows of the array and the north and south rows of the array). The south row of the array with the skirt member does not require a different type of coupling device for the skirt member. Also, advantageously, the coupling assembly  500  allows for the use of a universal skirt (i.e., it is unnecessary to use different skirts for different photovoltaic module heights). 
     With reference to  FIGS. 140A-146 , another embodiment of a skirt member of the photovoltaic mounting system will be described. Similar to that described above for the skirt member  174 , the skirt member  534  of  FIGS. 140A-146  is configured to be located on the southernmost edge of the array of PV modules. The skirt member  534  is supported by spaced-apart support surface attachment devices  100 ″. In particular, as shown in  FIGS. 140A and 140B , the hemmed upper edge portion  538  of the skirt member  534  engages with the skirt receiving groove  444  of the upper clamp member  432 . As described above, the skirt member  534  is secured to the clamp assembly by means of the head of the fastener member  38  (i.e., the head of the fastener member  38  presses down on the top surface of the skirt member  534 —see  FIG. 140B ). The perspective view of  FIG. 140A  illustrates the manner in which the skirt member  534  engages with both the support surface attachment device  100 ″ and the coupling device  500 . In the detail view of  FIG. 141A , it can be seen that the hemmed upper edge portion  538  of the skirt member  534  engages with the skirt receiving groove  532  of the upper coupling member  518  that is formed by the skirt channel portion  526 . 
     Now, referring to  FIGS. 143-146 , the structure of the skirt member  534  will described in more detail. As best shown in the end view of  FIG. 145B , the skirt member  534  comprises a body portion  536  with the hemmed upper edge portion  538  and a curled lower edge portion  540 . The curled lower edge portion  540  of the skirt member  534  is configured to receive a pin member therein for facilitating an alignment of multiple skirt sections in a photovoltaic array (i.e., the pin can be used to connect the lower edge portions of adjacent skirt sections to one another). The hemmed upper edge portion  538  of the skirt member  534  enhances the strength of the skirt member  534  and provides a tighter fit in the skirt receiving grooves  444 ,  530 ,  532  of the clamp and coupling assemblies. Advantageously, in the illustrative embodiment, the engagement between the skirt member  534  and the clamp assembly of the support surface attachment device  100 ″, and the engagement between the skirt member  534  and the coupling assembly  500 , is configured to allow the clamp and coupling assemblies to accommodate any photovoltaic module thickness within a range between approximately 32 millimeters and approximately 50 millimeters. That is, the clamp and coupling assemblies are capable of accommodating any photovoltaic module thickness between 32 millimeters and 50 millimeters, such as but not limited to, photovoltaic module thicknesses of 32 millimeters, 35 millimeters, 40 millimeters, 45 millimeters, and 46 millimeters. 
     Alternative embodiments of coupling members are illustrated in  FIGS. 147-150 . Initially, as shown in  FIG. 147 , two adjacent photovoltaic modules  374  are shown coupled to one another by means of an upper coupling member  542 . The upper coupling member  542  in  FIG. 147  comprises a pair of punched down tabs  544  that are used to support the photovoltaic modules  374 . The punched down tabs  544  also prevent the closeout of the coupling member  542 . The lower coupling member  546 , which is illustrated in  FIGS. 148-150 , is configured to be used on the southmost row of the photovoltaic array only (i.e., on the row of the photovoltaic array with the skirt). Referring to  FIGS. 148 and 149 , it can be seen that the lower coupling member  546  comprises a lower plate-like body portion  548  and a curled upper body portion  550  for engaging one or more skirt members. Also, as shown in  FIG. 148 , the lower plate-like body portion  548  of the lower coupling member  546  comprises a pair of spaced-apart fastener apertures  552  disposed therein for receiving respective fasteners  264  (see  FIG. 150 ). In  FIG. 150 , two skirt sections  554  are illustrated being coupled together using the coupling member  546 . 
     Alternative embodiments of the clamp members are depicted in  FIGS. 151-156 . Initially, with reference to  FIG. 151 , a clamp assembly that includes the upper clamp member  402  described above and the lower clamp member  558  is being used to secure a skirt member  556  and a photovoltaic module  372  in place. Turning to  FIGS. 152 and 153 , it can be seen that the lower clamp member  558  comprises a base portion  568  with upturned side edges, and first and second vertical walls  560 ,  562  extending upwardly from the base portion  568 . The base portion  568  of the lower clamp member  558  further comprises a fastener aperture  570  for receiving a fastener member (e.g., bolt  264  depicted in  FIG. 151 ). In addition, as shown in  FIGS. 152 and 153 , the lower clamp member  558  comprises a pair of spaced-apart skirt receiving notches  564 ,  566  for receiving a protruding portion of a skirt member  556  (see  FIG. 151 ). Next, referring to  FIGS. 154 and 155 , a lower clamp member  572  is illustrated that comprises a lower plate-like body portion  574  and a curled upper body portion  576  for engaging one or more skirt members. Also, as shown in  FIG. 154 , the lower plate-like body portion  574  of the lower clamp member  572  comprises a fastener aperture  578  disposed therein for receiving a fastener (e.g., bolt  264  depicted in  FIG. 156 ). In  FIG. 156 , a skirt member  580  is illustrated being secured to a support surface attachment device by means of the lower clamp member  572 . As shown in  FIG. 156 , the support surface attachment device includes a glider member  60 ″ and a base member  90 ″. 
     Now, with reference to  FIGS. 157-159, 162-167, and 169 , several embodiments of spacer members that are used to hold open the panel receiving gaps of the clamp assembly and the coupling assembly will be described. It is to be understood that spacer members are only necessary in the southmost row of the photovoltaic array to hold open the clamp and coupling assemblies because the photovoltaic modules acts as the spacers in the other rows of the photovoltaic array. Initially, referring to  FIG. 157 , it can be seen that plate-like spacer member  590  may be inserted between the lower clamp member  414 ′ and the skirt member  582  in order to hold open the clamp assembly and support the skirt member  582  (e.g., during the setting of the southmost row in a photovoltaic array so as to prevent the north side of the clamp from closing out). As shown in  FIG. 158 , the spacer member  590  comprises a plate-like body portion  592  with a rounded upper corner  594  to accommodate the channel portion of the skirt member  582  that defines the groove  586 . In  FIG. 159 , it can be seen that the skirt member  582  comprises a body portion  584  with a hemmed upper edge portion  588  and a groove  586  for receiving the protruding teeth of the upper clamp member  402  (see  FIG. 157 ). As shown in  FIG. 157 , the hemmed upper edge portion  588  of the skirt member  582  fits within a recess of the upper clamp member  402  so that, together with the engagement between the groove  586  and the protruding teeth of the upper clamp member  402 , the skirt member  582  is secured in place on the clamp assembly. 
     Another embodiment of a spacer member will be described with reference to  FIGS. 162 and 163 . As shown in these figures, the spacer member  602  has a generally C-shaped body portion  604  with oppositely disposed pronged end portions  606 . The spacer member  602  of  FIGS. 162 and 163  is designed to clip onto the lower clamp member of the clamp assembly (i.e., the pronged end portions  606  of the spacer member  602  clips onto the lower clamp member). Yet another embodiment of a spacer member is depicted in  FIG. 169 . As shown in  FIG. 169 , the spacer member  608  has a semi-circular body portion with a centrally disposed fastener aperture  610  for accommodating a shaft of a fastener member. As shown in  FIGS. 164-167 , the spacer member  608  is designed to snap into place on the shaft of the clamp fastener member  38  and on the shafts of the coupling fastener members  168  so as to hold the clamp and the coupling assemblies open. 
     Any of the features or attributes of the above described embodiments and variations can be used in combination with any of the other features and attributes of the above described embodiments and variations as desired. 
     Although the invention has been shown and described with respect to a certain embodiment or embodiments, it is apparent that this invention can be embodied in many different forms and that many other modifications and variations are possible without departing from the spirit and scope of this invention. 
     Moreover, while exemplary embodiments have been described herein, one of ordinary skill in the art will readily appreciate that the exemplary embodiments set forth above are merely illustrative in nature and should not be construed as to limit the claims in any manner. Rather, the scope of the invention is defined only by the appended claims and their equivalents, and not, by the preceding description.