DESC:FIELD OF INVENTION
The present disclosure is related to an electronic wireless anti-theft clamping device,
system for solar Photovoltaic (PV) panel cables and method for anti-theft clamping.
BACKGROUND
In general, Photovoltaic cables or PV cables, in the context of solar energy systems,
10 refer to the electrical cables specifically designed for use in photovoltaic (PV)
systems. These cables are integral components that facilitate the transfer of
electrical energy generated by solar panels or arrays.
PV cables are used to connect solar panels and to the system's electrical
15 components, such as inverters and charge controllers. These cables are designed to
withstand outdoor conditions, including exposure to sunlight, temperature
fluctuations, moisture, and weathering, ensuring long-term reliability in various
environments. They are insulated to prevent electrical leakage or short circuits and
to maintain safety standards.
20
Given their exposure to sunlight, PV cables are constructed with materials that resist
damage from ultraviolet (UV) radiation, ensuring their longevity in outdoor settings.
Surveillance Systems: Installation of surveillance cameras and monitoring systems
helps in keeping a watchful eye on the solar installations. Video surveillance and
25 security personnel may deter theft and aid in identifying perpetrators if theft occurs.
PV cables are designed to minimize energy loss during the transmission of electricity
from solar panels to the rest of the system. They offer efficient conductivity to
maximize power output. PV cables are manufactured to meet specific industry
30 standards, such as UL (Underwriters Laboratories) certification or other relevant
safety and performance standards.
PV cables come in different types and sizes depending on the system's voltage,
current, and installation requirements. They are typically designated as photovoltaic
3
5 (PV) or solar cables and are commonly available in various gauge sizes to
accommodate different system capacities.
It's essential to use high-quality, properly rated PV cables that comply with safety
and industry standards when setting up solar power systems. This ensures the
10 reliability, safety, and efficiency of the entire photovoltaic installation. Such cables
need some important theft protection mechanisms. There are several apparatus or
methods used to protect the cables from theft.
Fencing and Physical Barriers: Solar power plants often use perimeter fencing and
15 physical barriers to restrict unauthorized access. This helps deter theft by making it
more difficult for individuals to gain access to the PV cables.
Security Alarms: Implementing alarm systems that trigger alerts in case of
unauthorized access or tampering with the PV cables. These alarms can notify
security personnel or authorities about potential theft attempts.
20
Tamper-Evident Labels or Markings: Some solar installations use tamper-evident
labels or markings on the cables. These indicate if the cables have been tampered
with, making it easier to identify potential theft.
25 Secured Enclosures and Locking Mechanisms: Enclosures or covers with locks can
be used to protect vulnerable points of the PV cables, preventing easy access for
theft.
Tracking Technologies: In certain cases, tracking devices or GPS systems may be
30 embedded within the cables to monitor their location, especially during transportation
or storage.
4
5 Community Watch Programs and Local Collaboration: Collaboration with local
communities or neighbourhood watch programs can be effective in preventing theft
by increasing vigilance and reporting suspicious activities around solar installations.
Smart Technologies: Emerging solutions involve the use of smart technologies like
10 IOT (Internet of Things) sensors or devices that detect unauthorized access or
tampering and immediately send alerts to designated personnel or systems.
In the case of clamping, PV cables protected by the clamps would provide more
caution. As the Clamp will provide sufficient protection for cable organization
15 embodiment in the invention as well as theft protection by improving the construction
of clamps.
DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
Fig 1 illustrates the front view of the clamp device for holding the photovoltaic solar
20 cable as per the embodiment of the present invention.
Fig 2 illustrates the perspective view of the clamp device as per the embodiment of
the present invention.
Fig 3 illustrates the backside view of the clamp device containing the electronic
circuits, sensors, buzzers, and wireless communication module as per embodiment
25 of the invention.
Fig 4 illustrates that the temperature readings of the PV cable held with the clamp
showcasing no effects caused by clamping.
Fig 5 illustrates a sample of electronic circuits enclosed inside of the clamp device as
per embodiment of the invention.
30 Fig 6 illustrates the front view of the clamp device for holding the photovoltaic solar
cable containing the cable holding portion and latching portion connected pivotally as
per the embodiment of the present invention.
Fig 7 illustrates the back side view as per another embodiment of the present
invention.
5
5 Fig 8 illustrates the schematic of the receiver circuit used along with the clamp setup.
The receiver includes SIM800L GSM/GPRS module, XIAO ESP32-S3 MCU and
SX1278 LoRa Transceiver.
Fig 9 illustrates the schematic of the transmitter circuit used in the clamp setup. It
includes XIAO ESP32-S3 MCU for operation control and SX1278 LoRa Transceiver
10 to handle data transmission
Part Number and Part Names
1-Snap lock mechanism
2- Combination holder
15 3-Provision store
4-Provision for Rubber Gasket
5-Cap for Circuit Board
6-Hinge Mechanism
7-Cross Ribs
20 8- L section structure
9- Amplifier for Alarm
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PRESENT INVENTION
In Fig 1, the front view of the clamp device for holding the photovoltaic solar cable as
25 per the embodiment of the present disclosure is shown. Wherein the clamp device
consisting of a photovoltaic cable holding portion and clamp latching portion as per
one embodiment in the invention.
In Figure 2, the perspective view of the clamp device as per the embodiment of the
30 present disclosure is shown, where in the clamp having the photovoltaic cable
holding portion and latching portion are connected each other with a pivotal pin,
thereby the latching or closing of the clamp and opening of the clamp performed
pivotally in other embodiment of the invention.
6
5 In some aspects of the invention, the clamp device may include a battery
compartment enabling the battery to be inserted, so the clamp device enables the
power supply portion.
In some aspect of the present disclosure, the clamp device includes a chamber
10 where an electronic circuit may be connectable to the battery.
In some aspects of the present disclosure, the electronic circuit may include an
alarm, a sensor, lighting led light, a magnetic latching component or electrical
inductive latching circuits to lock the clamp device or to open the clamp device.
15
In other embodiment in the invention, In Figure 3, the backside view of the clamp
device is shown wherein the cable holding portion of the clamp device or latching
portion of the clamp may include an alarm, a sensor, lighting LED light, a magnetic
latching component or electrical inductive latching circuits to lock the clamp device to
20 open the clamp device.
Fig 4 illustrates that the PV cable held by the clamp has temperature ranging from
380C to 440C ensures no comprise on its functionality. The clamp device was
25 observed during peak generation hours and tested to check its effects on the PV
cable due to clamping.
Fig 5 illustrates a sample of electronic circuits enclosed inside of the clamp device as
per embodiment of the invention which may include BD140 Transistor, BC547
30 Transistor, 5mH Inductor, IN4007 Diode, Resistors, Piezo-Electric Buzzer, Capacitor,
sensors, wireless communication modules, GPS/ GSM modules, batteries.
7
5 Fig 6 illustrates the front view of the clamp device for holding the photovoltaic solar
cable containing the cable holding portion and latching portion connected each other
pivotally as per the embodiment of the present invention.
Fig 7 illustrates the perspective back view of the present invention. Wherein the
pivotally connected cable holding portion (1) and latching portion (2) holds the
10 photovoltaic cables in closed condition. wherein the latching of the said clamp device
latching may be performed by magnetic, manual, electronic or in a combination
thereof.
The embodiment in the invention the clamping system may include a wireless
15 module to enable the communication for opening or closing of the clamp.
The other important embodiment that the clamp system may include communication
modules and electronic circuits to identify the status of the clamp either in opened or
closed condition.
20
in other important embodiment in the invention, where the method of protecting the
photovoltaic power cables by a clamp includes monitoring the clamp status, in wired
or wireless condition.
25 The present disclosure is a ground-breaking solution addressing critical concerns
surrounding the management of DC cables in solar photovoltaic (PV) plants. In
large-scale installations featuring multiple solar panels, the arrangement and
safeguarding of DC cables present significant safety and security challenges.
30 The present-disclosure innovation offers a comprehensive resolution to these
pressing issues. Designed to efficiently secure DC cables between the gaps of the
solar panel leg structures, present-disclosure ensures meticulous cable
management. By firmly holding the cables within its design, it eliminates the risk of
8
5 dangling cables and exposure to external elements, notably preventing water ingress
at connector points during rainfall that could lead to potential short circuits.
Crucially, present-disclosure is engineered as a theft-proof solution. Its robust
construction and sealed rubber pad configuration render the cables for unauthorized
10 removal, mitigating the threat of theft significantly. This innovative clamping system
provides an unparalleled level of security, safeguarding valuable cabling
infrastructure in solar PV plants.
Moreover, present-disclosure revolutionizes cable management practices by
15 substantially reducing the reliance on cable ties by up to 90%. Unlike conventional
ties that are typically cut during maintenance or repair work, present-disclosure
offers reusability and durability. Its sturdy construction ensures long-lasting use,
minimizing the need for frequent replacements and contributing to a more
sustainable and cost-effective cable management solution.
20
In essence, present-disclosure is a pioneering invention that not only optimizes cable
organization and safeguards against environmental hazards but also enhances
security measures, offering a versatile, reusable, and robust solution for the efficient
management of DC cables in solar PV installations."
25
Fig 7 shows the following construction and working. The product comes with four
different parts, such as primary frame structure, secondary frame structure, module
(circuit) enclosure and Buzzer amplifier.
30 The primary and secondary frames were fixed on the pivot point using fasteners.
Once the primary frame is fixed in the structure, the cables were made to flow
through the slot. Those cables were locked with the help of the snap lock
mechanism. This triggers the normally closed switch (NC), where it opens the buzzer
9
5 circuit. During burglar activity, the secondary frame structure will be compromised
which cause the buzzer to activate.
Fig. 8 illustrates a schematic representation of the receiver circuit integrated within
the wireless anti-theft clamping system for photovoltaic (PV) panel cables. The
receiver circuit is configured to monitor the operational status of the clamp device
10 and to transmit security alerts upon detection of unauthorized access. The receiver
circuit comprises a SIM800L GSM/GPRS module, which facilitates wireless
communication over a mobile network, enabling the transmission of security alerts
via SMS or remote monitoring. A XIAO ESP32-S3 microcontroller (MCU) is
operatively connected to the receiver circuit, functioning as the primary processing
15 unit to manage incoming data signals from the transmitter and to control the
response mechanisms accordingly. Additionally, an SX1278 LoRa transceiver is
provided to enable long-range wireless communication, ensuring seamless reception
of signals from the transmitter unit integrated within the clamp device. Upon
detection of an unauthorized attempt to tamper with or remove the clamp, the
20 transmitter circuit transmits an alert signal to the receiver circuit, which processes the
received data and initiates a corresponding security response, such as activating an
alarm positioned within the provision for alarm (9) or transmitting an alert notification
via the GSM/GPRS module.
25 Fig. 9 illustrates a schematic representation of the transmitter circuit embedded
within the clamp device. The transmitter circuit is operatively configured to detect
security breaches and to relay alert signals to the receiver unit in response to
unauthorized interference with the clamp device. The transmitter circuit comprises a
XIAO ESP32-S3 MCU, which is adapted to control the functional operation of the
30 transmitter, process data from various sensors, and activate a security response.
Further, the SX1278 LoRa transceiver is integrated within the transmitter circuit to
facilitate long-range, low-power data transmission, thereby ensuring that security
alerts from the clamp device are reliably communicated to the receiver circuit, even
in remote solar installations. Upon detection of unauthorized tampering or an attempt
10
5 to disengage the clamp, the transmitter circuit generates an encrypted signal, which
is subsequently transmitted to the receiver unit (as shown in Fig. 8) for processing
and response activation. The snap lock mechanism (1) is configured to maintain the
clamp in a securely locked position, thereby preventing unauthorized removal of the
PV cables. Additionally, a provision store (3) is provided within the clamp structure to
10 house the electronic circuitry necessary for transmitting security alerts. The disclosed
wireless communication system facilitates real-time monitoring and enhanced
security of PV panel cables, effectively mitigating the risk of theft and unauthorized
access.
In one embodiment of the invention, a wireless anti-theft clamping device is provided
15 for securing photovoltaic (PV) panel cables. The device comprises a clamp body
having a cable holding portion and a latching portion, wherein the latching portion is
pivotally connected to the cable holding portion via a hinge mechanism (6) (as
illustrated in Fig. 6 and Fig. 7). The device further incorporates a snap lock
mechanism (1) to ensure secure retention of the PV cables (Fig. 1 and Fig. 2) and a
20 combination holder (2) to enhance cable stability (Fig. 3). A provision store (3) is
designed within the clamp structure to house electronic components, while a
provision for a rubber gasket (4) ensures environmental protection and sealing. A
cap for the circuit board (5) encloses and shields the internal electronics from
external factors. The clamp device further includes a wireless communication
25 module configured to transmit security alerts upon unauthorized tampering, wherein
said module comprises a GSM/GPRS module and a LoRa transceiver (Fig. 8 and
Fig. 9). Additionally, an alarm system featuring a piezo-electric buzzer, positioned
within the provision for alarm (9), is adapted to generate an audible warning in
response to unauthorized access (Fig. 3). A sensor system, which may include a
30 magnetic sensor, motion sensor, or pressure sensor, is further configured to detect
forced or unauthorized opening attempts. The clamp body also incorporates
structural reinforcements, including cross ribs (7) and an L-section structure (8) (Fig.
7), to provide additional mechanical strength and rigidity.
11
5 In one aspect of the invention, the wireless communication module comprises a
GSM/GPRS module, LoRa transceiver, and an ESP32-S3 microcontroller (MCU)
(Fig. 8 and Fig. 9), facilitating long-range wireless data transmission and real-time
remote monitoring of the clamp’s security status.
In another aspect of the invention, the alarm system is powered by an embedded
10 battery compartment, which is housed within the provision store (3) of the clamp
device (Fig. 5). This configuration ensures continuous functionality of the security
system without reliance on an external power source.
In another embodiment, the clamp body is constructed to hold the cables without
affecting its performance. Any changes in its effects will be visible in its temperature
15 readings. Thermal images show the temperature readings ranging from 38°C to
44°C (Fig. 4), ensuring no damages to the PV cable. Such a configuration is
particularly beneficial for solar installations where energy generation is crucial.
In one embodiment, the clamping mechanism is adaptable for manual, electronic, or
20 magnetic locking or a combination thereof (Fig. 6 and Fig. 7). The latching portion of
the clamp device may thus be secured either mechanically or by employing
electronic locking means integrated within the embedded circuitry.
In another aspect of the invention, a system for preventing theft of PV panel cables is
25 provided, comprising at least one wireless anti-theft clamping device as previously
described (Fig. 1 and Fig. 2), a receiver unit (Fig. 8) for processing alert signals
received from the clamp device, and a remote monitoring interface for real-time
security notifications. The receiver circuit is designed for deployment at a centralized
monitoring station, allowing real-time supervision of multiple clamp devices installed
30 across a solar PV field.
In another embodiment, the receiver unit is configured to activate a security
response upon detecting unauthorized tampering with the clamp device (Fig. 8). The
12
5 response mechanism may include triggering an audible alarm, sending SMS alerts,
or notifying authorities, ensuring swift action against theft attempts.
In one aspect of the invention, a method for securing PV panel cables using the
wireless anti-theft clamp is provided. The method includes placing the PV cables
10 within a structure where the cable holding portion and latching portion are pivotally
connected via a hinge mechanism (6) (Fig. 6 and Fig. 7). The method further
involves activating a locking mechanism, wherein the clamp is locked using the snap
lock mechanism (1) and stabilized using the combination holder (2) (Fig. 3). Upon
detection of an intrusion attempt, embedded sensors housed within the provision
15 store (3) trigger a security response, activating the alarm system positioned at the
provision for alarm (9) (Fig. 7). The wireless module transmits a security alert to the
receiver circuit (Fig. 8), enabling remote monitoring and real-time tracking of the
clamp’s operational status.
20 In another embodiment, the method further includes real-time monitoring of the
clamp status using an IoT-based tracking system (Fig. 8 and Fig. 9). This ensures
continuous security surveillance and immediate reporting of any detected tampering
or forced removal of the clamp.
25 In another aspect, the security alert includes location tracking information, which is
transmitted via GSM/GPRS or LoRa networks (Fig. 8 and Fig. 9). By enabling
precise tracking of security breaches, the system ensures that unauthorized activities
affecting PV installations are promptly identified and mitigated.
While various embodiments of the present disclosure have been described above, it
30 should be understood that they have been presented by way of example only, and
not by limitation. Thus, the breadth and scope of the present disclosure should not
be limited by any of the above-described embodiments but should be defined only in
accordance with the following claims and their equivalent ,CLAIMS:1. A wireless anti-theft clamping device for securing photovoltaic (PV) panel
cables, comprising:
- a clamp body including a cable holding portion and a latching portion, wherein the
latching portion is pivotally connected to the cable holding portion;
10 - a snap lock mechanism to securely hold the PV cables within the clamp body;
-a wireless communication module configured to send an alert signal upon
unauthorized tampering or forced removal of the clamp;
- an alarm system comprising a piezo-electric buzzer to produce an audible alert
upon unauthorized access; and
15 -a sensor system including at least one of a magnetic sensor, motion sensor, or
pressure sensor for detecting unauthorized attempts to open the clamp.
2. The device of claim 1, wherein the wireless communication module comprises a
GSM/GPRS module, LoRa transceiver, and an ESP32-S3 microcontroller for remote
monitoring and control.
20 3. The device of claim 1, wherein the alarm system is powered by a battery
compartment embedded within the clamp body.
4. The device of claim 1, wherein the clamp body includes a thermal-resistant
construction capable of withstanding temperatures ranging from 38°C to 44°C to
ensure durability in outdoor conditions.
25 5. The device of claim 1, wherein the clamping mechanism is configured for manual,
electronic, or magnetic locking, or a combination thereof.
6. A system for preventing the theft of photovoltaic (PV) panel cables, comprising:
-at least one wireless anti-theft clamping device as defined in claim 1, configured to
hold PV cables in place;
30 -a receiver unit equipped with a GSM/GPRS module and LoRa transceiver to receive
security breach signals from the clamp device; and
-a remote monitoring interface, configured to provide real-time alerts regarding the
status of the clamp device.
14
5 7. The system of claim 6, wherein the receiver unit is further configured to activate a
security response, such as sending an SMS alert, triggering an alarm, or notifying
authorities.
8. A method for securing photovoltaic (PV) panel cables using a wireless anti-theft
clamp, comprising:
10 - clamping the PV cables within a clamp body having a cable holding portion and a
latching portion;
-activating a locking mechanism, wherein the clamp is locked manually,
electronically, or magnetically;
-detecting unauthorized tampering using an embedded sensor system;
15 -triggering an alarm upon detecting unauthorized access; and
-transmitting a security alert to a remote monitoring system via a wireless
communication module.
9. The method of claim 8, further comprising monitoring the clamp status in real-time
using an IoT-based tracking system.
20 10. The method of claim 8, wherein the security alert includes location tracking
information transmitted via GSM/GPRS or LoRa networks.