A rail-based solar panel mounting system including at least one mounting bracket coupled to a mounting surface and at least one elongated rail having an open channel configuration, wherein the at least one elongated rail is coupled to the at least one mounting bracket. The mounting system also includes at least one mid-clamp assembly couplable to the at least one elongated rail, wherein the at least one mid-clamp assembly is configured to retain at least one solar panel relative to the at least one elongated rail.
F24S 25/30 - Arrangement of stationary mountings or supports for solar heat collector modules using elongate rigid mounting elements extending substantially along the mounting surface, e.g. for covering buildings with solar heat collectors
F24S 25/33 - Arrangement of stationary mountings or supports for solar heat collector modules using elongate rigid mounting elements extending substantially along the mounting surface, e.g. for covering buildings with solar heat collectors forming substantially planar assemblies, e.g. of coplanar or stacked profiles
F24S 25/40 - Arrangement of stationary mountings or supports for solar heat collector modules using plate-like mounting elements, e.g. profiled or corrugated platesPlate-like module frames
F24S 25/50 - Arrangement of stationary mountings or supports for solar heat collector modules comprising elongate non-rigid elements, e.g. straps, wires or ropes
F24S 25/60 - Fixation means, e.g. fasteners, specially adapted for supporting solar heat collector modules
F24S 25/61 - Fixation means, e.g. fasteners, specially adapted for supporting solar heat collector modules for fixing to the ground or to building structures
In various representative aspects, an assembly for securing a solar panel rail and rail-less support structures to a shingle roof. More specifically, the apparatus includes a connection bracket and flashing device for use in installing solar panel rail support structures. The connection bracket is secured to the flashing device by placing it over various embodiments of a cone element that is embedded within the flashing and secured using a tightening mechanism such as a bolt, screw, or other fastener. A solar panel rail support guide can be connected to a generally U-shaped connection on the top of the bracket. The apparatus also offers an improved means to cover the penetration point on the flashing to protect it and prevent water from leaking into the roof as well as an improved way to install the apparatus over existing products. Various embodiments of the bracket and flashing provided as well.
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