The subject matter in general relates to solar panels systems. More particularly, but not exclusively, the subject matter relates to structure for mounting solar panels.
Discussion of the related field:
[0003] With the ongoing energy demand, many individuals and governments have been migrating towards renewable energy sources, one among which is solar energy. Solar energy is harnessed for generating electricity, wherein the generated electricity can be utilized for various practical applications. Solar panels are employed for converting solar energy into electricity and solar panels are already available in the market. Solar panels have been installed in residences for fulfilling the needs of the residence.
[0004] Solar panels are usually installed on rooftops of houses over structures that are configured to withstand the load of the solar panels, or are directly installed on inclined roofs of houses. However, the structures for mounting of solar panels available in the market are simple frames that can barely handle load of the solar panels and also occupy lot of roof space. Additionally, the solar panel mounting structures available in the market are not suitable for residential buildings because the structures have exposed metal parts that could cause physical harm for living beings. Further, the exposed metal parts are susceptible to corrosion which could weaken the structure and reduce the lifetime of the structure. [0005] Hence there is a need for a redesigned structure that is not only capable of efficiently bearing the load of the solar panels but is also safe and has longer lifetime and can be installed in residential spaces like house/building/bungalow.

SUMMARY
[0006] In one aspect of the embodiment, a structure for mounting solar panels is provided. The structure comprises of a first set and a second set of first members, wherein the first set and the second set of the first members comprises of a first enclosure configured to encompass a first rigid member. The second set of first members are longer than the first set of first members. The first set of first members are vertically disposed at equal intervals. Similarly, the second set of first members are vertically disposed at equal intervals. The structure comprises of at least two second members, wherein each of the second member comprises of a second enclosure configured to encompass a second rigid member. The second rigid members of the second members are configured to be detachably engaged to the first rigid members of the first set of first members and the second set of first members, respectively in a manner that the second members are disposed orthogonal to the first members.
[0007] In an embodiment, the structure comprises a plurality of third members comprising a third enclosure configured to encompass a third rigid member. The third members are disposed at equal intervals over the second members in a manner that a first end of the third rigid member is detachably engaged to the second rigid member of the second member that is engaged to the first set of first members, and a second end of the third rigid member is detachably engaged to the second rigid member of the second member that is engaged to the second set of first members such that the plurality of third members are setup at an inclination. The structure comprises of solar panel mounting rails that are disposed over the plurality of third members, wherein the solar panel mounting rails are configured to receive solar panels.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF DRAWINGS
[0008] Embodiments are illustrated by way of example and not limitation in the figures of the accompanying drawings, in which like references indicate similar elements and in which: [0009] FIG. 1A is a perspective view of a structure 100 for mounting solar panels

102 with solar panels 102 installed on the structure 100, in accordance with an
embodiment;
[0010] FIG. IB is a side view of the structure 100, in accordance with an
embodiment;
[0011] FIG. IC illustrates a perspective view of a structure 100 for mounting solar
panels 102 without the solar panels 102, in accordance with an embodiment;
[0012] FIG. 2A illustrates a detailed perspective view of a first member 104, in
accordance with an embodiment;
[0013] FIG. 2B illustrates a bottom view of the first member 104, in accordance
with an embodiment;
[0014] FIG. 3A illustrates a perspective view of a second member 110, in
accordance with an embodiment;
[0015] FIG. 3B illustrates a cross-section view of the second member 110 taken
along a cutting plane A-A, in accordance with an embodiment;
[0016] FIG. 4A illustrates a perspective view of a third member 112, in accordance
with an embodiment;
[0017] FIG. 4B illustrates a cross-section view of the third member 112 taken along
a cutting plane B-B, in accordance with an embodiment;
[0018] FIG. 5 illustrates a perspective view of an additional support member 116,
in accordance with an embodiment;
[0019] FIG. 6A illustrates a perspective view of a solar panel mounting rail
coupling member 600, in accordance with an embodiment;
[0020] FIG. 6B illustrates an illustration of the solar panel mounting rail coupling
member 600 engaged to a solar panel mounting rail 114 and a third rigid member
404, in accordance with an embodiment;
[0021] FIG. 7A illustrates a perspective view of a water drainage apparatus 700 for
mounting the solar panels 102, in accordance with an embodiment;
[0022] FIG. 7B illustrates a detailed perspective view of an assembled view of the
solar panel mounting rail 114 with a first cushioning member 716, in accordance
with an embodiment;
[0023] FIG. 7C illustrates a detailed perspective view of the solar panel mounting

rail 114, in accordance with an embodiment;
[0024] FIG. 7D illustrates a detailed perspective view of the first cushioning
member 716, in accordance with an embodiment;
[0025] FIG. 8A illustrates a perspective view of clamping member 115 with a
second cushioning member 810, in accordance with an embodiment;
[0026] FIG. 8B illustrates an exploded view of the clamping member 115 and the
second cushioning member 810, in accordance with an embodiment;
[0027] FIG. 9A illustrates a detailed perspective view of an alternate embodiment
of a solar panel mounting rail 900 with cushioning members 716,904;
[0028] FIG. 9B illustrates a detailed view A of FIG. 9A, of an alternate embodiment
of a solar panel mounting rail 900 with cushioning members 904;
[0029] FIG. 10 illustrates a perspective view of an alternate embodiment of
clamping member 1000; and
[0030] FIG. 11 illustrates a perspective view of an adjoining clamping member 118
with an auxiliary member 1100, in accordance with an embodiment.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION
[0031] The following detailed description includes references to the accompanying drawings, which form a part of the detailed description. The drawings show illustrations in accordance with example embodiments. These example embodiments, which may be herein also referred to as "examples" are described in enough detail to enable those skilled in the art to practice the present subject matter. However, it may be apparent to one with ordinary skill in the art, that the present invention may be practised without these specific details. In other instances, well-known methods, procedures and components have not been described in detail so as not to unnecessarily obscure aspects of the embodiments. The embodiments can be combined, other embodiments can be utilized, or structural, logical, and design changes can be made without departing from the scope of the claims. The following detailed description is, therefore, not to be taken in a limiting sense, and the scope is defined by the appended claims and their equivalents. [0032] In this document, the terms "a" or "an" are used, as is common in patent

documents, to include one or more than one. In this document, the term "or" is used to refer to a nonexclusive "or," such that "A or B" includes "A but not B," "B but not A," and "A and B," unless otherwise indicated.
OVERVIEW
[0033] A structure for mounting solar panels is provided. The structure comprises of a first set of first members and a second set of first members, wherein each of first member of the first set of first members and the second set of the first members comprises of a first enclosure that may be configured to encompass a first rigid member. The second set of first members may be longer than the first set of first members. The first set of first members may be vertically disposed at equal intervals. Similarly, the second set of first members may be vertically disposed at equal intervals. The structure comprises of at least two second members, wherein each of the second member comprises of a second enclosure that may be configured to encompass a second rigid member. The second rigid members of the second members may be configured to be detachably engaged to the first rigid members of the first set of first members and the second set of first members, respectively in a manner that the second members may be disposed orthogonal to the first members. [0034] In an embodiment, the structure comprises a plurality of third members comprising a third enclosure that may be configured to encompass a third rigid member. The third members may be disposed at equal intervals over the second members in a manner that a first end of the third rigid member may be detachably engaged to the second rigid member of the second member which in turn may be engaged to the first set of first members, and a second end of the third rigid member may be detachably engaged to the second rigid member of the second member which in turn may be engaged to the second set of first members in a manner that the plurality of third members may be set-up at an inclination. The structure comprises of solar panel mounting rails that may be disposed over the plurality of third members, wherein the solar panel mounting rails may be configured to receive solar panels.

STRUCTURE 100 FOR MOUNTING SOLAR PANELS 102
[0035] Referring to FIGs. 1A-1C, a structure 100 for mounting solar panels 102 is disclosed, in accordance with an embodiment. The structure 100 comprises a first set 106 of first members 104 and a second set 108 of first members 104. At least two second members 110a, 110b may be provided, wherein at least one of the two second members 110a may be configured to be engaged to the first set 106 of first members 104 and another second member 110b of the at least two second members 110a, 110b may be configured to be engaged to the second set 108 of first members 104, respectively. The second members 110a, 110b may be engaged orthogonally to the first members 104. A plurality of third members 112 may be provided, wherein the third members 112 may be disposed at equal intervals over the second members 110a, 110b. A plurality of solar panel mounting rails 114 may be provided over the third members 112, wherein the solar panel mounting rails 114 may be configured to receive the solar panels 102. Two sets of solar panels, an upper set 101 and a lower set 103, may be received over the solar panel mounting rails 114. [0036] In an embodiment, the first set 106 of first members 104 may be installed vertically at equal intervals. Similarly, the second set 108 of first members 104 may be installed vertically at equal intervals, in a manner that the second set 108 of first members 104 may be spaced apart from the first set 106 of first members 104. The first members 104 may be configured to function as a foundation for the structure 100 for mounting the solar panels 102. The first set 106 of first members 104 and the second set 108 of first members 104 may be configured to be permanently or detachably installed, by any of the know methods, over any surface where the solar panels 102 are required to be installed.
[0037] Referring to FIGs. 2A-2B, the first member 104 is disclosed in accordance with an embodiment. The first member 104 comprises of two components that may be assembled together to form the first member 104, in accordance with an embodiment. The first member 104 may comprise of a first enclosure 202 and a first rigid member 204. The first enclosure 202 may form an outer casing of the first member 104, wherein the first enclosure 202 may be configured to encompass the first rigid member 204. The first enclosure 202 comprises of a first tube 206 running

along a length of the first member 104, wherein the first tube 206 may define a first hollow space 208. The first hollow space 208 may be configured to receive the first rigid member 204. A plurality of lateral support members 210 may be provided between an outer surface of the first tube 206 and an inner surface of the first enclosure 202. The lateral support members 210 may be configured to offer improved strength and rigidity of the first member 104.
[0038] In an embodiment, the first rigid member 204 may be permanently or detachably received into the first hollow space 208 of the first member 104. The first rigid member 204 comprises of a superior end 212 and an inferior end 214. The superior end 212 of the first rigid member 204 may be provided with a first coupling member 216. The first coupling member 216 may be configured to enable detachable engagement of the second members 110a, 110b with the first members 104. A provision 218 may be provided towards a superior end 220 of the first enclosure 202 for housing the first coupling member 216. The provision 218 may be created by cutting out at least a central portion of the first enclosure 202. [0039] In an embodiment, the first coupling member 216 may be U-shaped, wherein the U-shaped coupling member may be configured to receive at least a portion of the second member 110a and 110b for engaging.
[0040] Referring to FIGs. 3A-3B, the second member 110 is disclosed in accordance with an embodiment. The second member 110 may comprise of two components that may be assembled together to form the second member 110. The second member 110 comprises of a second enclosure 302 and a second rigid member 304. The second enclosure 302 may form an outer casing of the second member 110, wherein the second enclosure 302 may be configured to encompass the second rigid member 304. The second member 110 may define at least two hollow spaces.
[0041] In an embodiment, the second member 110 may define three hollow spaces. The second rigid member 304 may be configured to be received in any one of the three hollow spaces defined by the second enclosure 302. The second rigid member 304 may be placed in any one of the three hollow spaces defined by the second enclosure 302 as per requirements. The second rigid member 304 may be

permanently or detachably engaged within the hollow space of the second enclosure
302. The second members 110a, 110b may be configured to be engaged to the first
members 104.
[0042] In an embodiment, the second enclosure 302 of the second member 110 may
be provided with a plurality of slots 306 disposed along a length of the second
member on an upper surface, wherein the slot may be configured to expose the
second rigid member 304 within the second enclosure 302.
[0043] In an embodiment, the second members 110a, 110b may be configured to
be detachably or permanently engaged to the first members 104 by any of the known
methods.
[0044] Referring to FIGs. 4A-4B, the third member 112 is disclosed in accordance
with an embodiment. The third member 112 may comprise of two components that
may be assembled together to form the third member 112. The third member may
comprise of a third enclosure 402 and a third rigid member 404. The third enclosure
402 may form an outer casing of the third member 112, wherein the third enclosure
402 may be configured to encompass the third rigid member 404. The third member
112 may define at least two hollow spaces.
[0045] In an embodiment, the third enclosure 402 may define three hollow spaces,
an upper hollow space 406, a central hollow space 408 and a lower hollow space
410. The central hollow space 408 may be configured to be bigger than the upper
hollow space 406 and the lower hollow space 410. The third rigid member 404 may
be configured to be received by the central hollow space 408. The third rigid
member 404 may be permanently or detachably engaged within the central hollow
space 408 of the third enclosure 402. The third members 112 may be configured to
be engaged to the second members 110.
[0046] In an embodiment, the third member 112 may comprise of a first end 412
and a second end 414. A cut out 416 may be provided on opposite sides of the third
enclosure 402 towards the first end 412 and the second end 414. The cut out 416
may be configured to receive at least a portion of second member 110 when the
third member 112 is engaged to the second member 110.
[0047] In an embodiment, the third members 112 may be configured to be

detachably or permanently engaged to the second members 110 by any of the known methods.
[0048] In an embodiment, the first enclosure 202 of the first member 104, second enclosure 302 of the second member 110 and the third enclosure 402 of the third member 112 may be made using, but not limited to, wood-plastic composite materials. The first enclosure 202 of the first member 104, second enclosure 302 of the second member 110 and the third enclosure 402 of the third member 112 may be manufactured to appear aesthetically appealing. For example, the first enclosure 202 of the first member 104, second enclosure 302 of the second member 110 and the third enclosure 402 of the third member 112 may be manufactured to replicate wood.
[0049] In an embodiment, the first rigid member 204 of the first member 104, the second rigid member 304 of the second member 110 and the third rigid member 404 of the third member 112 may be made using metals like, but not limited to, iron, steel or aluminium. The materials employed for manufacturing of the first rigid member 204, the second rigid member 304 and the third rigid member 404 may be stronger than that of the first enclosure 202, second enclosure 302 and the third enclosure 402. The first rigid member 204, second rigid member 304 and the third rigid member 404 may be made using metals as they may be configured to carry the load of the solar panels 102.
[0050] In an embodiment, the first members 104 may be installed over a surface where the structure 100 for mounting solar panels 102 is required to be installed. For example, the structure 100 may be installed on, but not limited to, house roofs, house gallery and open spaces around the house. The first members 104 of the first set 106 of first members 104 may be spaced at equal intervals, and similarly the first members 104 of the second set 108 of first members 104 may be equally spaced. The first set 106 of first members 104 and the second set 108 of first members 104 may be spaced apart. The second set 108 of first members 104 may be longer than the first set 106 of first members 104 (refer FIG. IB). The first members 104 of the first set 106 and the first members 104 of the second set 108 may be disposed parallelly.

[0051] In an embodiment, one of the at least two second members 110a, 110b may be configured to be engaged to the first set 106 of first members 104. The second rigid member 304 of the second member 110a may be configured to be received within the first coupling member 216 provided towards the superior end 212 of the first rigid member 204 of the first set 106 of first members 104, thereby allowing engagement of the second member 110a to the first set 106 of first members 104. The second member 110a may be configured to be disposed orthogonally to the first set 106 of first member 104.
[0052] In an embodiment, one of the at least two second members 110a, 110b may be configured to be engaged to the second set 108 of first members 104. The second rigid member 304 of the second member 110b may be configured to be received within the first coupling member 216 provided towards the superior end 212 of the first rigid member 204 of the second set 108 of first members 104, thereby allowing engagement of the second member 110b to the second set 108 of first members 104. The second member 110b may be configured to be disposed orthogonally to the second set 108 of first member 104.
[0053] In an embodiment, a cut out 222 may be provided towards the superior end 220 of the first enclosure 202 of the first member 104 on opposite sides (refer FIG. 2A) to receive at least a portion of the second member 110 such that at least a portion of the first enclosure 202 towards the superior end 220 without cut outs overlap at least a portion of the second member 110.
[0054] In an embodiment, the plurality of third members 112 may be disposed over the second members 110a, 110b (refer FIG. 1C). The plurality of third members 112 may be equally spaced.
[0055] In an embodiment, the second rigid member 304 of the second member 110 engaged to the first set 106 of first members 104 may be configured to be engaged to the third rigid member 404 of the third member 112 towards the first end 412 of the third member 112, and the second rigid member 304 of the second member 110 engaged to the second set 108 of first members 104 may be configured to be engaged to the third rigid member 404 of the third member 112 towards the second end 414 of the third member 112 in a manner that the third member 112 is at an

inclination as the second set 108 of first members 104 are longer than that of the
first set 106 of first members 104 (refer FIG. IB).
[0056] In an embodiment, a second coupling member 120 may be provided,
wherein the third rigid member 404 of the third members 112 may be engaged to
the second rigid member 304 of the second members 110 via the second coupling
member 120 (refer FIG. 1A-1C). The third member 112 may be permanently or
detachably engaged to the second member 110 by any of the known methods.
[0057] In an embodiment, the second coupling member (120) may be, but not
limited to, a U-shaped coupling member.
[0058] Referring to FIGs. 1C and 5, the structure 100 may comprise additional
support members 116 provided between two adjacent third members 112. The
additional support member 116 may comprise of two components that may be
assembled together to form the additional support member 116. The additional
support member 116 may comprise of a fourth enclosure 502 and a fourth rigid
member 504. The fourth enclosure 502 may be configured to encompass the fourth
rigid member 504. Two ends of the additional support members 116 may be
configured to be engaged to two respective adjacent third rigid members 404 of the
third members 112. The ends of the additional support members 116 may be
engaged to the third rigid members 404 via a coupling plate 506. The third enclosure
402 of the third member 112 may be provided with, but not limited to, rectangular
slots 418 (refer FIG. 4 A) on opposite sides that may allow direct engagement of the
coupling plate 506 at the ends of additional support members 116 to the respective
third rigid members 404.
[0059] In an embodiment, the ends of the additional support members 116 may be
detachably engaged to the third rigid member 404 with, but not limited to, a
rectangular engagement plate via fasteners.
[0060] In an embodiment, the fourth enclosure 502 of the additional support
member 116 may be made using, but not limited to, wood-plastic composite
materials.
[0061] In an alternate embodiment, the first enclosure 202 of the first member 104,
second enclosure 302 of the second member 110, the third enclosure 402 of the

third member 112 and the fourth enclosure 502 of the additional support member 116 may be made using may be made using, but not limited to, plastic materials like PVC or CPVC or nylon.
[0062] In an embodiment, the fourth rigid member 504 of the additional support member 116 may be made using, but not limited to, metals like steel, iron or aluminum.
[0063] In an embodiment, the additional support members 116 may be permanently or detachably engaged to the third members 112 by any of the known methods. [0064] Referring to FIGs. 6A-6B, a solar panel mounting rail coupling member 600 and its deployment is illustrated, in accordance with an embodiment. The solar panel mounting rails 114 may be engaged to the third rigid members 404 of the third members 112 via a solar panel mounting rail coupling members 600. The solar panel mounting rail coupling member 600 may define a trapezoidal cross-section, wherein the trapezoidal cross-section may allow uniform load distribution of solar panels 102 over the third rigid members 404 of the third members 112. The solar panel mounting rail coupling member 600 may be provided with a plurality of vertical members 602 that may be configured to provide better load distribution and may also improve overall strength of the solar panel mounting rail coupling member 600. The solar panel mounting rail coupling member 600 may be provided with holes on its upper and lower surface. The hole on the upper surface may be configured to allow engagement of the solar panel mounting rail coupling member 600 to the solar panel mounting rail 114, while the hole on the lower surface may be configured to allow engagement of the solar panel mounting rail coupling member 600 to the third rigid member 404 of the third member 112. [0065] In an embodiment, the third enclosure 402 of the third member 112 may define a plurality of slots 420 along its length for receiving the solar panel mounting rail coupling member 600, wherein the slots 420 may provide access to the upper hollow space 406 of the third enclosure 402 (refer FIG. 4A). The solar panel mounting rail coupling members 600 may be received within the upper hollow space 406 of the third enclosure 402 via the slots 420 and may be engaged permanently or detachably to the third rigid member 404 disposed in the central

hollow space 408 by any of the known engagement methods. At least a portion of the solar panel mounting rail coupling members 600 may protrude out slightly from the third enclosure 402 such that the solar panel mounting rail 114 is configured to be engaged to the protruding portion of the solar panel mounting rail coupling member 600.
[0066] In an embodiment, the solar panel mounting rails 114 may be inclined as the solar panel mounting rails 114 are disposed over the third members 112. The solar panel mounting rails 114 may comprise of platforms that may be configured to receive solar panels 102.
SOLAR PANEL MOUNTING RAIL
[0067] Referring to FIGs. 7A-7D, the structure 100 may comprise of a water drainage apparatus 700 for mounting the solar panels 102, in accordance with an embodiment. The apparatus 700 may be configured to receive at least one solar panel 102. The apparatus 700 may comprise of the solar panel mounting rail 114 and a clamping member 115. The solar panel mounting rail 114 may be configured to function as a base for the apparatus 700. The solar panel mounting rail 114 may comprise of a main frame 702 that defines a passage 704 along its length, wherein the main frame 702 may define a U-shaped cross-section. The main frame 702 may comprise of a first side 710, a second side 711, a superior side 712 and an inferior side 713. The main frame 702 of the solar panel mounting rail 114 may be engaged to the third rigid member 404 of the third member 112 via the solar panel mounting rail coupling members 600. The solar panel mounting rail coupling member 600 may be engaged to the inferior side 713 of the main frame 702 via holes provided along its length by any known methods. The passage 704 of the main frame 702 may be provided with lateral protruding members 706 on either side towards the superior side 712 of the main frame 702. The lateral protruding members 706 may be provided in a manner that at least a portion of the lateral protruding members 706 extend towards centre of the main frame 702.
[0068] In an embodiment, a first platform 708 may be provided along the length of the main frame 702 on the first side 710. The first platform 708 may extend away

from the main frame 702 towards the first side 710. The first platform 708 may define a first groove 715 that may run along a length of the first platform 708. A plurality of first protrusions 714 may be provided along the length of the first platform 708. The plurality of first protrusions 714 may be provided, but not limited to, on either side of the first groove 715.
[0069] In an embodiment, the first groove 715 may be, but not limited to, a dovetail groove.
[0070] In an embodiment, a first cushioning member 716 that may be configured to be received over the first platform 708 may be provided. The first cushioning member 716 may be configured to receive the solar panels 102. The first cushioning member 716 may comprise of a plurality of first cushioning extension members 718. The first cushioning extension members 718 may be provided on an upper side (side interfacing with the solar panels) of the first cushioning member 716, wherein the first cushioning extension members 718 may run along a length of the first cushioning member 716. The first cushioning extension members 718 may be provided, but not limited to, at an angle in a manner that the first cushioning extension members 718 function as shock absorbers when solar panels 102 are received over the first cushioning member 716. The first cushioning member 716 on its lower side may be provided with a second protrusion 720. The second protrusion 720 may, but not limited to, run along the length of the first cushioning member 716. The second protrusion 720 may be, but not limited to, a dovetail protrusion. The first cushioning member 716 may also be provided with a plurality of second grooves 722 that may run along the length of the first cushioning member 716. The second grooves 722 may be provided, but not limited to, on either side of the second protrusion 720 of the first cushioning member 716. The first cushioning member 716 may be provided with a side member 724 that may extend along the length of the first cushioning member 716. The side member 724 may be provided with a tiny protrusion 726 that may extend laterally.
[0071] In an embodiment, the first cushioning member 716 may be received over the first platform 708 in a manner that the second protrusion 720 of the first cushioning member 716 is received by the first groove 715 defined on the first

platform 708, thereby holding the first cushioning member 716 in place over the first platform 708. The plurality of first protrusions 714 of the first platform 708 may be configured to be received by the plurality of second grooves 722 of the first cushioning member 716 to enhancing grip of the first cushioning member 716 over the first platform 708. The side member 724 may be configured to rest against a side portion of the main frame 702 and the tiny protrusion 726 may be configured to rest over at least a portion of the lateral protruding member 706 provided towards the superior side 712 of the main frame 702 (refer FIG. 7A). [0072] In an embodiment, a first drain 730 may be provided on the first side 710 of the main frame 702 in a manner that the first drain 730 extends away from the first platform 708. The first drain 730 may be configured to collect and drain rainwater thereby preventing water seepage through the structure 100. The first drain 730 may define, but not limited to, a V-shaped cross-section.
[0073] In an embodiment, the first drain 730 may be of any cross-section that can allow collection and movement of rainwater. For example, the first drain 730 may define a square cross-section, rectangular cross-section, and circular cross-section, among other.
[0074] Referring to FIGs. 8A-8B, the clamping member 115 is illustrated, in accordance with an embodiment. The clamping member 115 may be configured to clamp on and hold the solar panels 102 received over the first cushioning member 716 on the solar panel mounting rails 114 in place. The clamping member 115 may define a hole 802 for engaging the clamping member 115 onto the main frame 702 of the solar panel mounting rail 114 via fasteners. The fasteners employed for engaging the clamping member 115 onto the main frame 702 may comprise of a bolt and a plate assembly (not shown in figures), wherein the bolt may be provided with external threads and the plate may be provided with a hole defining internal threads. The plate may be configured to be received within the passage 704 of the main frame 702, wherein edges of the plate interface with the lateral protruding members 706 provided towards the superior side 712 of the main frame 702 as the bolt is fastened to engage the clamping member 115 onto the main frame 702. [0075] In an embodiment, the clamping member 115 may comprise of a first

extended surface 804 on one side of the hole 802. The first extended surface 804 may define a third groove 806. The first extended surface 804 of the clamping member 115 may be provided with a plurality of third protrusions 808, not limited to, on either side of the third groove 806. The clamping member 115 may be provided with a second cushioning member 810, wherein a fourth protrusion 812 may be provided on the second cushioning member 810. The second cushioning member 810 may also be provided with a plurality of fourth grooves 814, not limited to, on either side of the fourth protrusion 810. The second cushioning member 810 may be received over the first extended surface 804 of the clamping member 115 in a manner that the fourth protrusion 812 of the second cushioning member 810 may be received by the third groove 806 on the first extended surface 804 of the clamping member 115. Also, the plurality of third protrusions 808 provided on the first extended surface 804 of the clamping member 115 may be received by the plurality of fourth grooves 814 defined on the second cushioning member 810.
[0076] In an embodiment, the third groove 806 defined on the first extended surface 804 of the clamping member 115 may be, but not limited to, a dovetail groove. [0077] In an embodiment, the fourth protrusion 812 provided on the second cushioning member 810 may be, but not limited to, of a dovetail profile. [0078] In an embodiment, a surface of the second cushioning member 810 facing the solar panels 102 may be provided with a plurality of extensions 818 that may be configured to act as shock absorbers when the clamping members 115 are camped onto the solar panels 102 and are tightened to hold the solar panels 102 in place.
[0079] The apparatus 700 discussed in the foregoing may be disposed towards ends of the structure 100, wherein the solar panels 102 may be received only on a single side of the solar panel mounting rails 114.
[0080] Referring to FIGs. 9A-9B, an alternate embodiment of a solar panel mounting rail 900. The solar panel mounting rail 900 may be configured to receive solar panels 102 on both sides, the first side 710 and the second side 711. The solar panel mounting rail 900 may comprise of the main frame 702 that defines a passage

704 along its length, wherein the main frame 702 may define a U-shaped cross-section. The main frame 702 comprises of the first side 710 and the second side 711. The solar panel mounting rail 900 may be configured to be disposed between lateral ends of the structure 100, wherein solar panels 102 may be received on both the first side 710 and the second side 711 of the main frame 702. The main frame 702 may be configured to be engaged to the third rigid member 404 of the third members 112 via the solar panel mounting rail coupling members 600. The solar panel mounting rail 900 may be provided with the first platform 708 with the first cushioning member 716 and the first drain 730 on the first side 710 of the main frame 702. The first platform 708 may extend away from the main frame 702 towards the first side 710. The first platform 708 may be configured to receive the first cushioning member 716, wherein the first cushioning member 716 may be configured to receive solar panels 102. (the details of the first side have been discussed in the foregoing and are not repeated for the sake of brevity). [0081] In an embodiment, the solar panel mounting rail 900 may comprise of a second platform 902 provided along the length of the main frame 702 on the second side 711 that may extend away from the main frame 702 on the second side 711. A third cushioning member 904 may be received over the second platform 902, wherein the third cushioning member 904 may be configured to receive the solar panels 102 on the second side 711. The second platform may define a fifth groove 908 and a plurality of fifth protrusions 910 running along a length of the second platform 902.
[0082] In an embodiment, the fifth groove 908 on the second platform 902 may be, but not limited to, a dovetail groove.
[0083] In an embodiment, the third cushioning member 904 may comprise of an upper side and a lower side. The third cushioning member 904 may comprise of a plurality of third cushioning extension members 912 provided, but not limited to, at an angle on the upper side (side interfacing with the solar panels) running along a length of the third cushioning member 904. The solar panels 102 may be received over the plurality of third cushioning extension members 912. The third cushioning member 904 may comprise a sixth protrusion 914 towards its lower side running

along the length of the third cushioning member 904. The sixth protrusion 914 of the third cushioning member 904 may be configured to be received by the fifth groove 908 of the second platform 902 to securely hold the third cushioning member 904. The third cushioning member 904 comprises a plurality of sixth grooves 916 towards the lower side of the third cushioning member 904, wherein the plurality of fifth protrusions 910 running along the length of the second platform 902 may be configured to be received by the plurality of sixth grooves 916 on the third cushioning member 904 to seat the third cushioning member 904 over the second platform 902.
[0084] In an embodiment, the second drain 906 may be provided on the second side 711 of the main frame 702 in a manner that the second drain 906 extends away from the second platform 902. The second drain 906 may be configured to collect and drain rainwater thereby preventing water seepage through the structure 100. The second drain 906 may define, but not limited to, a V-shaped cross-section. [0085] In an embodiment, the third cushioning member 904 may be provided with a side member 918 that may extend along the length of the third cushioning member 904. The side member 918 may be provided with a tiny protrusion 920 that may extend laterally. The side member 918 may be configured to rest against a side portion of the main frame 702 and the tiny protrusion 920 may be configured to rest over at least a portion of the lateral protruding member 706 provided towards the superior side 712 of the main frame 702.
[0086] In an embodiment, the cushioning members, when the solar panels 102 are received, may be configured to interface with the solar panel 102 surface to prevent any water seepage.
[0087] Referring to FIG. 10, an alternate embodiment of the clamping member 1000 is illustrated. The clamping member 1000 may define hole 802 for engaging the clamping member 1000 onto the main frame 702 of the solar panel mounting rail 114 via fasteners for holding the solar panels 102 in place. The construction of the clamping member 1000 may be similar to the clamping member 115 discussed in the foregoing. The clamping member 1000 comprises of first extended surface 804 and a second extended surface 1002. The second extended surface 1002 may

be provided on a side opposite to that first extended surface 804. The first extended surface 804 may define third groove 806 and the second extended surface 1002 may define a seventh groove 1004. The first extended surface 804 may be provided with a third protrusions 808 and the second extended surface 1002 may be provided with a plurality of seventh protrusions 1006.
[0088] In an embodiment, the clamping member 1000 comprises of a fourth cushioning member 1008. The fourth cushioning member 1008 may be configured to be disposed on the second extended surface 1002. The fourth cushioning member 1008 may comprise of an eighth protrusion 1010. The fourth cushioning member 1008 may define a plurality of eighth grooves 1012. The fourth cushioning member 1008 may be received by the second extended surface 1002 in a manner that the eighth protrusion 1010 may be received by the seventh groove 1004 on the second extended surface 1002, and the seventh protrusions 1006 on the second extended surface 1002 may be received by the eighth grooves 1012 on the fourth cushioning member 1008. The fourth cushioning member 1008 may be securely held by the second extended surface 1002.
[0089] In an embodiment, the second cushioning member 810 and the fourth cushioning member 1008 may be configured to interface with the solar panels 102 and may also be configured to prevent any water seepage through the structure 100. [0090] In an embodiment, the structure 100 may comprise of an adjoining clamping member 118 with an auxiliary member 1100 (refer FIG. 11) provided for clamping the solar panels 102 into the adjoining clamping members 118. The adjoining clamping member 118 may be configured to be disposed orthogonally to the solar panel mounting rails 114 between the upper set 101 of solar panels 102 and the lower set 103 of solar panels 102 (refer FIG. 1 A). The adjoining clamping member 118 may comprise of a central frame 1102, wherein a plurality of holes (not shown in the figures) may be provided, on an inferior side, along a length of the central frame 1102. The adjoining clamping member 118 may comprise of two first extended surfaces 1104a, 1104b on either side of the central frame 1102 in a manner that the first extended surfaces 1104a, 1104b extend away from the central frame 1102. The first extended surfaces 1104a, 1104b of the adjoining clamping member

118 may be configured to receive and hold cushioning members 1106 in place. An auxiliary member 1100 may be provided for clamping the adjoining clamping member 118 onto the solar panels 102 and holding the solar panels 102 in place. The auxiliary member 1100 may be provided with first extended surfaces 1104a, 1104b on either side, wherein the first extended surfaces 1104a, 1104b may be configured to receive and hold respective cushioning members 1106a, 1106b in place.
[0091] In an embodiment, the auxiliary member 1100 may be provided with two first extended surfaces 1112a, 1112b, wherein each of the extended member may be configured to receive cushioning members 1114a, 1114b. The auxiliary member 1110 may be provided with a hole 1110 for allowing coupling of the auxiliary member 1100 with the adjoining clamping member 118 via fasteners (not shown in the figures). The auxiliary member 1100 may be coupled to the adjoining clamping member 118 in a manner that the solar panels 102 are received between the cushioning members of the adjoining clamping member 118 and the auxiliary member 1100.
[0092] In an embodiment, the cushioning members 1106a, 1106b provided with the adjoining clamping member 118 and the cushioning members 1114a, 1114b provided with the auxiliary member 1100 may be made using a softer material. The cushioning members 1106, 1114 may be configured to not only provide support to the solar panels 102, but also prevent seepage of rainwater, in case of rains. [0093] In an embodiment, the structure 100 for mounting solar panels 102, when fully assembled, may be configured to receive solar panels 102. The solar panels 102 may be configured to be received over the respective first cushioning members 716 of the first platform 708 and the third cushioning members 906 of the second platform 902 of the solar panel mounting rails 114 and may be held in place by the respective clamping member 115 and the adjoining clamping members 118. The solar panels 102 may be received in a manner that the solar panels 102 only interface with the cushioning members of the respective first members 104, second members 110 and the third members 112 of the structure 100. The cushioning members, since made from softer materials, may be configured to not only function

as shock absorbers, but also prevent solar panel surfaces from being scratched, and wear and tear.
[0094] In an embodiment, the load of the solar panels 102 received on the solar panel mounting rails 114 may be solely directed to the first rigid member 204 of the first members 104 via the rigid members provided within the third members 112 and the second members 110, respectively. The first enclosure 202, second enclosure 302 and the third enclosure 402 of the respective first member 104, second member 110 and third member 112 may not be configured to carry any load of the solar panels 102.
[0095] In an embodiment, the structure 100 may be constructed in a way to appear as a wooden structure 100 to enhance the overall appeal of the house or a place where the structure 100 may be installed.
[0096] The processes described above is described as a sequence of steps. This was done solely for the sake of illustration. Accordingly, it is contemplated that some steps may be added, some steps may be omitted, the order of the steps may be re-arranged, or some steps may be performed simultaneously. [0097] Although embodiments have been described with reference to specific example embodiments, it will be evident that various modifications and changes may be made to these embodiments without departing from the broader spirit and scope of the system and method described herein. Accordingly, the specification and drawings are to be regarded in an illustrative rather than a restrictive sense. [0098] Many alterations and modifications of the present invention will no doubt become apparent to a person of ordinary skill in the art after having read the foregoing description. It is to be understood that the phraseology or terminology employed herein is for the purpose of description and not of limitation. It is to be understood that the description above contains many specifications, these should not be construed as limiting the scope of the invention but as merely providing illustrations of some of the personally preferred embodiments of this invention.

CLAIMS
We Claim:
1. A structure (100) for mounting solar panels, the structure (100) comprising: a first set (106) of first members (104) comprising a first enclosure (202) and a first rigid member (204), wherein the first enclosure (202) encompasses the first rigid member (204), wherein the first members (104) are vertically disposed at equal intervals;
a second set (108) of first members (104) comprising the first enclosure (202) encompassing the first rigid member (204), wherein the first members (104) are vertically disposed at equal intervals, wherein the second set (108) of first members (104) are longer than the first set (106) of first members (104); at least two second members (110a, 110b) each of second member (110a, 110b) comprising a second enclosure (302) and a second rigid member (304), wherein the second enclosure (302) encompasses the second rigid member (304), wherein second rigid member (304) of at least one of the second members (110a) is engaged to the first rigid member (204) of first set (106) of first members (104) and second rigid member (304) of at least one of the second members (110b) is engaged to the first rigid member (204) of second set (108) of first members (104) in way that the second members (110a, 110b) are disposed orthogonally to the first members (104); a plurality of third members (112) disposed at equal intervals, wherein each of the third members (112) comprises:
a first end (412) and a second end (414); and
a third enclosure (402) and a third rigid member (404), wherein the third enclosure (402) encompasses the third rigid member (404), wherein: the first end (412) of the third rigid member (404) is engaged to the second rigid member (304) of the second member (110a) which in turn is engaged to the first set (106) of first members (104); and the second end (414) of the third rigid member (404) is engaged to the second rigid member (304) of the second member (110b) which in turn is engaged to the second set (108) of first members (104) in

a way that the plurality of third members (112) are at an inclination;
and a plurality of solar panel mounting rails (114) disposed over the plurality of third members (112), wherein the plurality of solar panel mounting rails (114) are configured to receive solar panels (102), wherein load of the solar panels (102) received on the solar panel mounting rails (114) is directed to the first rigid member (204) of the first members (104) via the third rigid member (404) and the second rigid member (304).
2. The structure (100) as claimed in claim 1, wherein the second rigid member
(304) of the second member (110a and 110b) is detachably engaged to the first rigid
member (204) of the first member (104).
3. The structure (100) as claimed in claim 1, wherein the third rigid member (404) of the third member (112) is detachably engaged to the second rigid member (304) of the second member (110a and 110b).
4. The structure (100) as claimed in claim 1, wherein the structure (100) comprises a solar panel mounting rail coupling member (600) configured to couple the solar panel mounting rail (114) to the third rigid member (404) of the third member (112).
5. The structure (100) as claimed in claim 4, wherein the solar panel mounting rail coupling member (600) defines a trapezoidal cross-section.

6. The structure (100) as claimed in claim 1, wherein the structure (100) comprises a plurality of additional support members (116), wherein each of the additional support members (116) is provided between two adjacent third members (112) and is configured to couple the third rigid members (404) of the two respective adjacent third members (112).
7. The structure (100) as claimed in claim 1, the structure (100) comprises a plurality of clamping members (115), wherein each of the clamping members (115) is configured to hold the solar panel (102) in position over the solar panel mounting rails (114).
8. The structure (100) as claimed in claim 1, the structure (100) comprises:

an adjoining clamping member (118) disposed laterally between an upper set and a lower set of solar panels (102); and
an auxiliary member (1100) disposed below the adjoining clamping member (118), wherein the solar panels (102) are configured to be received between the auxiliary member (1100) and the adjoining clamping member (118).
9. The structure (100) as claimed in claim 8, wherein the auxiliary member
(1100) is rigidly coupled to the adjoining clamping member (118) using fasteners.
10. The structure (100) as claimed in claim 8, wherein the adjoining clamping
member (118) and the auxiliary member (1100) comprises of cushioning members
(1106a, 1106b, 1114a, 1114b), wherein the cushioning members (1106, 1114) are
detachably engaged to the respective adjoining clamping member (118) and the
auxiliary member (1100) in a manner that the solar panels (102) interface with the
cushioning members (1106a, 1106b, 1114a, 1114b).
11. The structure (100) as claimed in claim 10, wherein the cushioning members (1106, 1114) are configured to prevent water seepage through the structure (100).
12. The structure (100) as claimed in claim 1, wherein the first enclosure (202) comprises:
a first tube (206) defining a first hollow space (208), wherein the first rigid member (204) is received within the first hollow space (208); and
a plurality of lateral support members (210) provided in a space between the first tube (206) and the first enclosure (202).
13. The structure (100) as claimed in claim 1, wherein the second enclosure (302)
of the second member (110) defines a hollow space, wherein the second rigid
member (304) is received within the hollow space.
14. The structure (100) as claimed in claim 1, wherein the third enclosure (402) of the third member (112) defines at least two hollow spaces, wherein the third rigid member (404) is received within any one of the at least two hollow spaces.
15. The structure (100) as claimed in claim 1, wherein the first rigid member (204), the second rigid member (304) and the third rigid member (404) are made using steel, iron or aluminum.

16. The structure (100) as claimed in claim 1, wherein the first enclosure (202), the second enclosure (302) and the third enclosure (402) are made using a wood-plastic composite material.
17. The structure (100) as claimed in claim 1, wherein the structure (100) comprises a first coupling member (216), wherein the first rigid member (204) of the first member (104) is coupled to the second rigid member (304) of the second member (110) via the first coupling member (216).
18. The structure (100) as claimed in claim 1, wherein the structure (100)
comprises a second coupling member (120), wherein the second rigid member
(304) of the second member (110) is coupled to third rigid member (404) of the
third member (402) via the second coupling member (120).