IL309203B2

IL309203B2 - Solar panel support arrangement for a fence installation

Info

Publication number: IL309203B2
Application number: IL309203A
Authority: IL
Inventors: Galinsky Natan; Shvo Lior
Original assignee: Teralight Solartech Ltd; Galinsky Natan; Shvo Lior
Priority date: 2023-12-07
Filing date: 2023-12-07
Publication date: 2025-05-01
Also published as: IL309203A; IL309203B1; WO2025120642A1

Description

SOLAR PANEL SUPPORT ARRANGEMENT FOR A FENCE INSTALLATION TECHNOLOGICAL FIELD The present disclosure generally relates to a solar panel fence installation and a solar panel support system for use with a fence installation. More particularly, the present disclosure relates to a support panel support arrangement usable in paired relation with a solar panel to support the same upon a fence installation, and in particular a security fence installation so as to provide a solar power source thereat.

BACKGROUND ART Security fences and gates are installed and used primarily to define the perimeter of protected areas, such as restricted areas, controlled areas, entry control/access control points, installation perimeters, and to provide a physical and psychological deterrent to entry and preventing unauthorized personnel from entering a protected area. A solar panel (also known as a "PV panel") is a device that converts light from the sun, which is composed of particles of energy called photons, into electricity that can be used to power electrical loads. Solar panels can be used for a wide variety of applications including remote power systems for remote improvements upon real estate, telecommunications equipment, remote sensing, and for the production of electricity by residential and commercial solar electric systems.

There is a perceived need for solar panel connectivity to fence installations generally and security fence installations particularly as security perimeters become more commonplace and necessary in view of increasing threats to such security perimeters.

GENERAL DESCRIPTION There is provided in accordance with an embodiment of the presently disclosed subject matter fence installations which provide a basis for additional solar panel installations so as to maximize the solar panel surface areas for solar energy collection. The presently disclosed subject matter addresses these perceived needs by providing a solar panel fence installation and a solar panel support arrangement for supporting one or more solar panels at the solar panel fence installation as summarized in more detail hereafter.

There is provided in accordance with an embodiment of the presently disclosed subject matter a solar panel support system for use with a fence including fence posts. The solar panel support system according to the presently disclosed subject matter includes at least two solar panel support arrangements configured to support at least one solar panel. Each solar panel support arrangement includes a first support member and a second support member, and is configured for attachment to a corresponding fence post in spaced relation relative to one another along the fence.

Each of the first support members attaches to a corresponding first fence post portion and each of the second support members attaches to a corresponding second fence post portion.

In some embodiments, each solar panel support arrangement further comprises a cross- member panel support extending intermediate the first and second support members. In some embodiments, the first support member is an upper support member and the second support member is a lower support member. In some embodiments, the upper support members are attached to corresponding first fence post portions, which are upper fence post portions and the lower support members are attached to corresponding second fence post portions, which are lower fence post portions. In some embodiments, each cross-member panel support is configured to support the solar panel such that a solar panel plane is angled relative to a primary fence plane. In some embodiments, the cross-member panel support may be omitted and the solar panels are directly supported by the first and second support members.

In some embodiments, the first and second support members together with the cross-member panel support together form a polygonal panel support truss. In some embodiments, each polygonal panel support truss comprises at least one adjustable portion or is adjustable for selectively varying the solar panel plane angle relative to the primary fence plane. In some embodiments, at least one of the first and second support members is an adjustable portion or an adjustable member for selectively varying the solar panel plane angle relative to the primary fence plane. In some embodiments, the adjustable portion or adjustable member is configured to be extendable intermediate a first configuration and a second configuration. In some embodiments, at least one of the upper and lower support members is telescopically adjustable for selectively varying the solar panel plane angle relative to the primary fence plane.

In accordance with an embodiment of the present application, the adjustable member is configured to facilitate positioning of the solar panel plane at a solar efficient angle, which is the angular position of the solar panel plane that can yield the highest conversion ratio or output, namely the maximal efficiency of sunlight to electricity, by the solar panel plane. Typically, maximal solar conversion efficiency is achieved when the solar efficient angle positions the solar panel plane generally perpendicular to the sun rays.

The solar efficient angle can vary from one solar panel to another and may depend on a plurality of parameters, such as the location of the solar panel along the fence e.g. at any of the southern fence line, the western fence line, the eastern fence line or the northern fence line. As described herein, it is known that at the northern hemisphere the maximal conversion efficiency is achieved when the solar panels are southerly directed. Yet to benefit from the space supporting the solar panels provided along the fence, without be limited to a single fence line, the adjustable member facilitates the adjustment of the solar panels at the solar efficient angle . In a non limiting example, in order to compensate for positioning the solar panel facing non-southerly directed (e.g. eastwardly directed, typically when the solar panel is installed along the western fence line), the adjustable member facilitates positioning the solar panel at the solar efficient angle.

It is further noted that this adjustment, facilitated by the adjustable member, may be performed on-sight or in any other suitable manner since the solar efficient angle may be determined on-site or in any other suitable manner.

The adjustable member is configured to assume a plurality of positions in order to allow positioning the solar panel at any one of the determined solar efficient angles. This may be performed by moving the adjustable member from the first position to the second position or to any intermediary position. Accordingly, the solar panel is positionable at the solar efficient angle.

The adjustable portion is extendable and retractable to any suitable length allowing for positioning the solar panels at the solar efficient angle.

In some embodiment, the adjustable member is adjusted periodically following installation, such as during changes of seasons.

Further non-limiting parameters may effect the solar efficient angle, such as the terrain where the solar panels are installed along the fence; season of the year; geographical location, such whether the solar panels are installed at the northern hemisphere or at the southern hemisphere and further parameters. Accordingly, the adjustable member is facilitated for positioning the solar panel at the solar efficient angle.

It is noted that the adjustable member may be formed of any suitable mechanism configured for changing the adjustable member so as to position the solar panel at any determined angle. The determined angle may be the solar efficient angle or less, though any suitable range or discrete angle is contemplated. The adjustable member may be formed of a telescopic arm, such as shown herein, or of any other suitable adjustable or length varying mechanism, such as pistons, springs, electric mechanisms or the like.

In some embodiments, the cross-member panel supports are pivotally attached to the first and second support members for supporting solar panel plane variance relative to the primary fence plane. In some embodiments, a proximal panel edge of the solar panel terminates proximally of a vertical, secondary fence plane parallel to the primary fence plane. In some embodiments, at least a portion of the first support members extend in parallel relation relative to the primary fence plane.

In some embodiments, portions of the first support members fixedly extend in parallel relation relative to the primary fence plane. In some embodiments, the first support member, the second support member, and the cross-member panel support of each polygonal panel support truss extends along a member axis together defining a triangular polygon. In some embodiments, each triangular polygon defines a fence-exterior vertex positioned intermediate the primary fence plane and a vertical, secondary fence plane extending in parallel relation to the primary fence plane.

In some embodiments, linkage members interconnect the cross-member panel supports to the first and second support members. In some embodiments, linkage members interconnect the lower support members to the lower fence post portions. In some embodiments, linkage members interconnect the upper support members to the upper fence post portions. In some embodiments, the linkage members extend toward an inner perimeter area away from the primary fence plane and downwardly from the cross-member panel supports to interface with and connect to opposed ends of any one of the first and second support members. In some embodiments, at least one of the cross-member panel supports and any one of the first and second support members are pivotally connected to the linkage members.

In some embodiments, the solar panel is connected to the cross-member panel supports via bridge brackets adjacent proximal and distal panel edges of the solar panel. In some embodiments, solar panel support rails extend along the proximal and distal panel edges intermediate the solar panel and the bridge brackets. In some embodiments, the solar panel support rails provide a mounting portion along which a light strip is mounted. The solar panel is configured to power the light strip as mounted to the mounting portion. In some embodiments, the light strip extends through open portions of the bridge brackets. In some embodiments, the solar panel support rails support a series of solar panels aligned in end-to-end relation to one another along the primary fence plane as supported by a series of sequentially spaced polygonal panel support trusses.

There is thus provided in accordance with another embodiment of the presently disclosed subject matter a solar panel fence installation including a fence and a solar panel support system.

The fence includes at least two posts spaced apart along the fence having an inner side and an outer side. Each post extends at least vertically to a furthermost edge of the outer side. The furthermost edges of the two posts defining together a vertical fence plane having outer fence side and an inner fence side proximal to the posts relative to the outer fence side. The solar panel support system usable in combination with the fence includes at least two solar panel support arrangements and a solar panel.

Each solar panel support arrangement includes a first support member and a second support member, and is configured for attachment to a corresponding fence post in spaced relation relative to one another along the fence, such that each of the first support members attaches to a corresponding first fence post portion and each of the second support members attaches to a corresponding second fence post portion. The solar panel terminates at a panel edge thereof facing the outer fence side and has a panel support portion. The at least two solar panel support arrangements are configured to support the at least one solar panel at the panel support portion so that the panel edge is entirely facing the vertical fence plane at the inner fence side.

In some embodiments, as for example, when the fence is used as a heightened security fence, the solar panel support arrangements are configured such that the panel edge is entirely facing the vertical fence plane at the inner fence side to (1) enhance the degree of safety of the security fence installation and/or (2) to comply with security regulations requiring the outer fence side to be free of any elements.

It is noted that the phrase, "the at least two solar panel support arrangements are configured to support the at least one solar panel at the panel support portions so that the panel edge is entirely facing the vertical fence plane at the inner fence side." , this structural arrangement, in some embodiments, may be characterized such that at least 80% of the solar panel is facing the vertical fence plane at the inner fence side, namely at least 80% of the solar panel is positioned within the inner perimeter area.

In some embodiments, the phrase may include that at least 90% of the solar panel is facing the vertical fence plane at the inner fence side, namely at least 90% of the solar panel is positioned within the inner perimeter area.

In some embodiments, the phrase may include that approximately 100 % of the solar panel is facing the vertical fence plane at the inner fence side, namely at approximately 100 % of the solar panel is positioned within the inner perimeter area.

In some embodiments, the at least two solar panel support arrangements are configured to support a solar panel at the panel support portions so that the outer perimeter area is free of at least one or more of the solar panels and the solar panel support arrangements and any component related thereto.

In some embodiments, the outer perimeter area is free of at least one or more of the solar panel and the solar panel support arrangements and any component related thereto at least in a region which is proximal to or in the vicinity of the outer fence side of the vertical fence plane (e.g. a region defined in the outer perimeter area at the vicinity of the outer fence side of the vertical, secondary fence plane otherwise referred to more simply as a "vertical fence plane" in certain instances within these specifications).

In some embodiments, the vertical fence plane is tangent to the furthermost edges, and in some embodiments, the vertical fence plane is tangent to the panel edge. In some embodiments, each solar panel support arrangement further comprises a cross-member panel support extending intermediate the first and second support members. In some embodiments, the first support member is an upper support member and the second support member is a lower support member.

In some embodiments, the upper support members are attached to corresponding first fence post portions, which are upper fence post portions and the lower support members are attached to corresponding second fence post portions, which are lower fence post portions.

In some embodiments, the cross-member panel supports are configured to support the panel support portion such that a solar panel plane is angled relative to the vertical fence plane. In some embodiments, the first and second support members together with the cross-member panel support of each solar panel support arrangement together form a polygonal panel support truss. In some embodiments, each polygonal panel support truss comprises at least one adjustable portion or adjustable member for selectively varying the solar panel plane angle relative to the vertical fence plane. In some embodiments, at least one of the first and second support members is an adjustable member for selectively varying a solar panel plane angle relative to the vertical fence plane. In some embodiments, the adjustable member is configured to be extendable intermediate a first configuration and a second configuration. In some embodiments, at least one of the first and second support members is telescopically adjustable for selectively varying the solar panel plane angle relative to the vertical fence plane. In some embodiments, the cross-member panel supports are pivotally attached to the upper and lower support members for supporting solar panel plane variance relative to the vertical fence plane.

In some embodiments, at least a portion of the upper support members extend in parallel relation relative to the vertical fence plane. In some embodiments, the upper support member, the lower support member, and the cross-member panel support of each polygonal panel support truss extends along a member axis together defining a triangular polygon. In some embodiments, each triangular polygon defines a fence-exterior vertex, which fence-exterior vertices are positioned intermediate a primary fence plane and a secondary fence plane. In some embodiments, linkage members interconnect the cross-member panel supports to one or both of the first and second support members. In some embodiments, linkage members interconnect the any one of the first and second support members to the posts. In some embodiments, at least one of the cross-member panel supports and any one of the first and second support members are pivotally connected to the linkage members.

In some embodiments, the panel support portions are connected to the cross-member panel supports via bridge brackets. In some embodiments, solar panel support rails extend intermediate the panel support portions and the bridge brackets. In some embodiments, the solar panel support rails provide a mounting portion along which a light strip may be mounted. In some embodiments, the solar panel is configured to power the light strip as mounted to the mounting portion. In some embodiments, the light strip extends through open portions of the bridge brackets. In some embodiments, the solar panel support rails support a series of solar panels aligned in end-to-end relation to one another along the vertical fence plane as supported by a series of sequentially spaced solar panel support arrangements. In some embodiments, the upper fence post portions comprise a limiting portion for limiting angular adjustment of the solar panel. In some embodiments, the panel edge terminates inwardly of the vertical fence plane toward the inner fence side.

EMBODIMENTS A more specific description is provided in the Detailed Description whilst the following are non- limiting examples of different embodiments of the presently disclosed subject matter. 1. A solar panel support system for use with a fence including fence posts, the solar panel support system comprising: at least two solar panel support arrangements configured to support at least one solar panel, wherein: each solar panel support arrangement comprises a first support member and a second support member, and is configured for attachment to a corresponding fence post in spaced relation relative to one another along the fence, such that each of the first support members attaches to a corresponding first fence post portion and each of the second support members attaches to a corresponding second fence post portion. 2. The solar panel support system according to Embodiment 1 wherein each solar panel support arrangement comprises a cross-member panel support extending intermediate the first and second support members. 3. The solar panel support system according to any one of the preceding Embodiments wherein the first support member is an upper support member and the second support member is a lower support member. 4. The solar panel support system according to Embodiment 3 wherein the upper support members are attached to corresponding first fence post portions, which are upper fence post portions and the lower support members are attached to corresponding second fence post portions, which are lower fence post portions.

. The solar panel support system according to any one of Embodiments 2 through 4 when dependent on Embodiment 2 wherein each cross-member panel support is configured to support the solar panel such that a solar panel plane is angled relative to a primary fence plane. 6. The solar panel support system according to Embodiments 2 or 5 wherein the first and second support members together with the cross-member panel support, together form a polygonal panel support truss. 7. The solar panel support system according to Embodiment 6 wherein each polygonal panel support truss comprises at least one adjustable portion for selectively varying the solar panel plane angle relative to the primary fence plane. 8. The solar panel support system according to Embodiment 5 or 6 or 7, when dependent on Embodiment 5 wherein at least one of the first and second support members is an adjustable portion for selectively varying the solar panel plane angle relative to the primary fence plane. 9. The solar panel support system according to Embodiment 8 wherein the adjustable portion is configured to be extendable intermediate a first configuration and a second configuration.

. The solar panel support system according to Embodiment 9 wherein the adjustable portion is extendable and retractable to a length for positioning a solar panel at a solar efficient angle. 11. The solar panel support system according to any of the preceding Embodiments wherein at least one of the first and second support members is telescopically adjustable for selectively varying the solar panel plane angle relative to the primary fence plane. 12. The solar panel support system according to any one of Embodiments 2 through wherein the cross-member panel supports are pivotally attached to the first and second support members for supporting solar panel plane variance relative to the primary fence plane. 13. The solar panel support system according to any one of the preceding Embodiments wherein a proximal panel edge of the solar panel terminates proximally of a vertical, secondary fence plane parallel to the primary fence plane. 14. The solar panel support system according to Embodiment 12 wherein at least a portion of the first support members extend in parallel relation relative to the primary fence plane.

. The solar panel support system according to any one of Embodiments 12 and wherein portions of the first support members fixedly extend in parallel relation relative to the primary fence plane. 16. The solar panel support system according to any one of Embodiments 2 through 15 when dependent on Embodiment 2, wherein the first support member, the second support member, and the cross-member panel support of each polygonal panel support truss extends along a member axis together defining a triangular polygon. 17. The solar panel support system according to Embodiment 16, when dependent on Embodiment 12 wherein each triangular polygon defines a fence-exterior vertex, the fence-exterior vertices being positioned intermediate the primary fence plane and the vertical, secondary fence plane. 18. The solar panel support system according to any one of Embodiments 2 through when dependent on Embodiment 2 wherein linkage members interconnect the cross- member panel supports to the first and second support members. 19. The solar panel support system according to Embodiment 18 wherein linkage members extend toward an inner perimeter area away from a primary fence plane and downwardly from the cross-member panel supports to interface with and connect to opposed ends of any one of the first and second support members.

. The solar panel support system according to Embodiment 19 wherein at least one of the cross-member panel supports and any one of the first and second support members are pivotally connected to the linkage members. 21. The solar panel support system according to any one of Embodiments 2 through when dependent on Embodiment 2 wherein the solar panel is connected to the cross- member panel supports via bridge brackets. 22. The solar panel support system according to Embodiment 21 wherein solar panel support rails extend along proximal and distal panel edges of the solar panel intermediate the solar panel and said bridge brackets. 23. The solar panel support system according to Embodiment 22 wherein the solar panel support rails provide a mounting portion along which a light strip is mounted, the solar panel for powering the light strip as mounted to the mounting portion. 24. The solar panel support system according to Embodiment 23 wherein the light strip extends through open portions of the bridge brackets.

. The solar panel support system according to Embodiments 22 through 24 wherein the solar panel support rails support a series of solar panels aligned in end-to-end relation to one another along the primary fence plane as supported by a series of sequentially spaced polygonal panel support trusses. 26. A solar panel fence installation comprising: a fence comprising at least two fence posts spaced apart along the fence having an inner side and an outer side, each fence post extending at least vertically to a furthermost edge of the outer side, the furthermost edges of the two fence posts defining together a vertical fence plane having an outer fence side and an inner fence side proximal to the fence posts relative to the outer fence side; a solar panel support system for use with the fence comprising: at least two solar panel support arrangements, each solar panel support arrangement comprising: a first support member and a second support member, and being configured for attachment to one of the at least two fence posts, such that each of the first support members attaches to a corresponding first fence post portion and each of the second support members attaches to a corresponding second fence post portion; and at least one solar panel terminating at a panel edge thereof facing the outer fence side and having a panel support portion; wherein the at least two solar panel support arrangements are configured to support the at least one solar panel at the panel support portion so that the panel edge is entirely facing the vertical fence plane at the inner fence side. 27. The solar panel fence installation according to Embodiment 26 wherein the vertical fence plane is tangent to the furthermost edges. 28. The solar panel fence installation according to any one of Embodiments 26 and wherein the vertical fence plane is tangent to the panel edge. 29. The solar panel fence installation according to any one of Embodiments 26 through wherein each solar panel support arrangement comprises a cross-member panel support extending intermediate the first and second support members.

. The solar panel fence installation according to any one of Embodiments 26 through wherein the first support member is an upper support member and the second support member is a lower support member. 31. The solar panel fence installation according to Embodiment 30 wherein the upper support members are attached to corresponding first fence post portions, which are upper fence post portions and the lower support members are attached to corresponding second fence post portions, which are lower fence post portions. 32. The solar panel fence installation according to Embodiment 29 wherein the cross- member panel supports are configured to support the panel support portion such that a solar panel plane is angled relative to the vertical fence plane. 33. The solar panel fence installation according to any one of Embodiments 29 and wherein the first and second support members together with the cross-member panel support of each solar panel support arrangement together form a polygonal panel support truss. 34. The solar panel fence installation according to Embodiment 33 when dependent on Embodiment 32 wherein each polygonal panel support truss comprises at least one adjustable portion for selectively varying the solar panel plane angle relative to the vertical fence plane.

. The solar panel fence installation according to any one of Embodiments 26 through 34 wherein at least one of the first and second support members is an adjustable member for selectively varying a solar panel plane angle relative to the vertical fence plane. 36. The solar panel fence installation according to Embodiment 35 wherein the adjustable member is configured to be extendable intermediate a first configuration and a second configuration. 37. The solar panel fence installation according to Embodiment 36 wherein at least one of the first and second support members is telescopically adjustable for selectively varying the solar panel plane angle relative to the vertical fence plane. 38. The solar panel fence installation according to any one of Embodiments 35 through wherein the adjustable portion is extendable and retractable to a length for positioning the at least one solar panel at a solar efficient angle. 39. The solar panel fence installation according to any one of Embodiment 29 and Embodiments 32 through 38 where dependent on Embodiment 29 wherein the cross- member panel supports are pivotally attached to the first and second support members for supporting solar panel plane variance relative to the vertical fence plane. 40. The solar panel fence installation according to any one of Embodiments 26 through wherein at least a portion of any one of the first and second support members extend in parallel relation relative to the vertical fence plane. 41. The solar panel fence installation according to Embodiment 33 wherein the first support member, the second support member, and the cross-member panel support of each polygonal panel support truss extends along a member axis together defining a triangular polygon. 42. The solar panel fence installation according to Embodiment 41 wherein a vertical portion of the two fence posts define a vertical, primary fence plane, said vertical fence plane constituted a vertical, secondary fence plane and the triangular polygon defines a fence-exterior vertex, the fence-exterior vertices being positioned intermediate the vertical, primary fence plane and the vertical, secondary fence plane . 43. The solar panel fence installation according to any one of Embodiment 29 and Embodiments 32 through 42 where dependent on Embodiment 29 wherein linkage members interconnect the cross-member panel supports to one or both of the first and second support members. 44. The solar panel fence installation according to Embodiment 43 wherein linkage members interconnect the second support members to the fence posts. 45. The solar panel fence installation according to Embodiment 44 wherein at least one of the cross-member panel supports and any one of the first and second support members are pivotally connected to the linkage members. 46. The solar panel fence installation according to Embodiment 29 wherein the panel support portions are connected to the cross-member panel supports via bridge brackets. 47. The solar panel fence installation according to Embodiment 46 wherein solar panel support rails extend intermediate the panel support portions and the bridge brackets. 48. The solar panel fence installation according to Embodiment 47 wherein the solar panel support rails provide a mounting portion along which a light strip is mounted, the solar panel for powering the light strip as mounted to the mounting portion; and optionally: the light strip extending through open portions of the bridge brackets; and the solar panel support rails support a series of solar panels aligned in end-to-end relation to one another along the vertical fence plane as supported by a series of sequentially spaced solar panel support arrangements. 49. The solar panel fence installation according to Embodiment 31 wherein the first fence post portions comprise a limiting portion for limiting angular adjustment of the solar panel. 50. The solar panel fence installation according to any one of Embodiments 26 through wherein the panel edge terminates inwardly of the vertical fence plane toward the inner fence side.

BRIEF DESCRIPTIONS OF THE DRAWINGS Other features and objectives of the disclosure will become more evident from a consideration of the following brief descriptions of patent drawings.

FIG. 1 is a first diagrammatic depiction of a security perimeter of a fence installation including a series of periodically spaced fence posts and a barrier defining an inner perimeter area and an outer perimeter area.

FIG. 2 is a second diagrammatic depiction of a security perimeter of a fence installation including a series of periodically spaced fence posts and a barrier defining an inner perimeter area and an outer perimeter area with an inner primary fence plane and an outer secondary fence plane.

FIG. 3 is a third diagrammatic depiction of a security perimeter of a fence installation including a series of periodically spaced fence posts having obliquely angled upper fence post portions defining an inner perimeter area and an outer perimeter area with an inner primary fence plane and an outer secondary fence plane.

FIG. 4 is a diagrammatic depiction of a first solar panel fence installation according to the presently disclosed subject matter showing a first solar panel support arrangement affixed to a northern fence line of a security perimeter defined by an inner primary fence plane and an outer secondary fence plane.

FIG. 5 is a diagrammatic depiction of a second solar panel fence installation according to the presently disclosed subject matter showing a second solar panel support arrangement affixed to northern, western, and eastern fence lines of a security perimeter defined by an inner primary fence plane and an outer secondary fence plane.

FIG. 6 is a diagrammatic depiction of a third solar panel fence installation according to the presently disclosed subject matter showing a third solar panel support arrangement affixed to northern, western, eastern and southern fence lines of a security perimeter showing outer solar panel edges terminating inwardly of an outer secondary fence plane.

FIG. 7 is an elevational end view of a first solar panel support arrangement according the presently disclosed subject matter as attached to a security fence installation and showing a first solar panel supported in angled relation relative to an inner primary fence plane and an outer secondary fence plane of the security fence installation.

FIG. 8 is an elevational end view of a second solar panel support arrangement according the presently disclosed subject matter as attached to a security fence installation and showing a second solar panel supported in angled relation relative to an inner primary fence plane and an outer secondary fence plane of the security fence installation.

FIG. 9 is an enlarged lateral view of the first solar panel support arrangement otherwise depicted in FIG. 7 as attached to upper fence portions of a security fence installation and showing the first solar panel supported in angled relation relative to the inner primary fence plane and the outer secondary fence plane of the security fence installation.

FIG. 10 is an enlarged lateral view of the second solar panel support arrangement otherwise depicted in FIG. 8 as attached to upper fence portions of a security fence installation and showing the second solar panel supported in angled relation relative to the inner primary fence plane and the outer secondary fence plane of the security fence installation.

FIG. 11 is an enlarged lateral view of the second solar panel support arrangement otherwise depicted in FIG. 10 as removed from upper fence portions of a security fence installation to more clearly show the triangular arrangement of an upper support member, a lower support member, and a cross-member panel support of the solar panel support arrangement.

FIG. 12 is an enlarged lateral view of the second solar panel support arrangement otherwise depicted in FIG. 11 as attached to upper fence portions of a security fence installation to more clearly show the triangular relationship of the upper support member, the lower support member, and the cross-member panel support of the solar panel support arrangement showing a fence-exterior vertex of the triangular arrangement being positioned intermediate the inner primary fence plane and the outer secondary fence plane.

FIG. 13A is a diagrammatic depiction of a telescopic support member of the solar panel support arrangement according to the presently disclosed subject matter shown in a first, fully retracted telescopic configuration.

FIG. 13B is a diagrammatic depiction of a telescopic support member of the solar panel support arrangement according to the presently disclosed subject matter shown in a second, fully extended telescopic configuration.

FIG. 14A is an elevational end view of a third solar panel support arrangement according the presently disclosed subject matter as attached to a security fence installation and showing a telescopic support member in a fully retracted telescopic configuration so as to support a third solar panel in angled relation relative to an inner primary fence plane of the security fence installation.

FIG. 14B is an elevational end view of a fourth solar panel support arrangement according the presently disclosed subject matter as attached to a security fence installation and showing a telescopic support member in a partially extended configuration so as to support the third solar panel in first angle relative to an inner primary fence plane of the security fence installation.

FIG. 14C is an elevational end view of the fourth solar panel support arrangement otherwise depicted in FIG. 14B presented in side-by-side relation thereto to comparatively show the telescopic support member in a fully extended configuration so as to support the third solar panel in second angle relative to the inner primary fence plane of the security fence installation.

FIG. 14D is an enlarged lateral view of the fourth solar panel support arrangement otherwise depicted in FIG. 14C as attached to upper fence portions of the security fence installation and showing relative angular relationships of various components when the telescopic support member is in the fully extended configuration.

FIG. 15 is a diagrammatic depiction of angular positions of the Sun during various times of the year relative to the vertical and horizontal planes including the winter solstice position, the equinox position, and the summer solstice position.

FIG. 16 is a diagrammatic depiction of the angular position of the Sun relative to the horizontal and vertical planes during the summer solstice showing a minimized solar zenith angle and maximized solar elevation with a solar panel plane variably adjusted so as to be orthogonal to the rays from the Sun during the summer solstice.

FIG. 17 is a diagrammatic depiction of the angular position of the Sun relative to the horizontal and vertical planes during the equinox showing the solar zenith angle and the solar elevation with the solar panel plane being variably adjusted so as to be orthogonal to the rays from the Sun during the equinox.

FIG. 18 is a diagrammatic depiction of the angular position of the Sun relative to the horizontal and vertical planes during the winter solstice showing a maximized solar zenith angle and minimized solar elevation with the solar panel plane being variably adjusted so as to be orthogonal to the rays from the Sun during the winter solstice.

FIG. 19 is a diagrammatic depiction of a Sun positioned in the sky relative to a solar panel fence installation according to the presently disclosed subject matter showing the solar panel plane angled relative to the rays from the Sun.

FIG. 20 is a diagrammatic depiction of a generic solar panel support arrangement as attached to upper fence portions of a security fence installation with the lower support member being shown in a fully retracted telescopic configuration to provide a southerly facing minimized solar panel angle relative to the primary fence plane.

FIG. 21 is a diagrammatic depiction of a generic solar panel support arrangement as attached to upper fence portions of a security fence installation with the lower support member being shown in a fully extended telescopic configuration to provide a southerly facing solar panel angle relative to the primary fence plane.

FIG. 22 is a fragmentary enlarged sectional view of upper portions of the solar panel support arrangement supporting a solar panel as attached to an upper fence portion of a security fence installation at a first angle of inclination to more clearly to show a tangential relationship of a solar panel edge and outermost edge of the upper fence portion relative to the outer secondary fence plane.

FIG. 23 is a fragmentary enlarged sectional view of upper portions of the solar panel support arrangement supporting a solar panel as attached to an upper fence portion of a security fence installation at a second angle of inclination to more clearly to show a tangential relationship of a solar panel edge and outermost edge of the upper fence portion relative to the outer secondary fence plane.

FIG. 24 is a fragmentary enlarged sectional view of a solar panel attached to a cross-member panel support of the solar panel support arrangement according to the presently disclosed subject matter showing a solar panel support rail and bridge bracket interconnecting the solar panel and cross- member panel support.

FIG. 25 is a bottom perspective view of portions of a solar panel fence installation according to the presently disclosed subject matter.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE EMBODIMENTS Referring now to the drawings with more specificity, the presently disclosed subject matter concerns a solar panel fence installation 120 and a solar panel support arrangement 130 for supporting one or more solar panels 23 at the solar panel fence installation 120. In some embodiments, the presently disclosed subject matter is usable in combination with a security fence installation configured for enhanced security about a security perimeter as generally referenced at 100. Security fence installations are known in the art and typically comprise a series of fence posts periodically spaced about a security perimeter 100 for vertically retaining a continuous fence or other fence-like barrier at the security perimeter 100 as generally depicted and referenced in FIGS. 1 through 3.

The security perimeter 100 defines an inner perimeter area as at 102 and an outer perimeter area as at 103. The security perimeter 100 is selected to help secure the inner perimeter area 1 from the outer perimeter area 103 by providing a fence-like barrier at a vertically extending primary barrier plane 101 in most typical applications. The security perimeter 100 is generically depicted in a rectangular form for ease of understanding and should not be construed as limiting.

Other security perimeter configurations are contemplated.

A typical fence or fence-like barrier comprises a vertically extending chain link type barrier or wire mesh barrier. A primary fence barrier accordingly to the presently disclosed subject matter is depicted and referenced at 11. In most applications, the primary fence barrier 11 extends in the vertical, primary fence plane as at 101 as generally depicted and referenced in FIGS. 7 – 10 and 19 – 22. In some security fence applications or installations, the series of fence posts 10 comprise a vertical fence post portion 12 and an upper fence post portion 13 that extends at an oblique angle 104 relative to the vertical fence post portion 12 in a direction toward the outer perimeter area 103 of the security perimeter 100. In some embodiments, the oblique angle 104 is on the order of to 45 degrees, and in some embodiments, the oblique angle 104 is 44 degrees, though any angle is contemplated.

While the fence posts 10 as illustrated depict both a vertical fence post portion 12 and an upper fence post portion 13 obliquely angled as at angle 104 relative to the vertical fence post portion 12, the presently disclosed subject matter may be attached to vertical fence posts 10 without an obliquely angled upper fence post portion in some applications. Together the fence posts and the primary fence barrier 11 provide a fence to secure the inner perimeter area 102 from the outer perimeter area 103. In some embodiments according to the presently disclosed subject matter, the security perimeter 100 is outfitted with the fence for generally enclosing the security perimeter 100 to mark its boundary, control access thereto, and/or prevent unauthorized foot traffic therethrough.

The lower post end 14 of each vertical fence post portion 12 is buried or extended downwardly into a ground substrate medium as exemplified by soil or gravel as at 105. In some embodiments, a concrete post base 106 is formed in a post hole formed in the ground substrate medium 105 to provide a more robust anchor structure for the lower post end 14. The lower post ends 14 extend into the ground substrate 105 as optionally anchored by post base 106 a certain depth 107 and the fence posts 10 are formed of a substantially rigid material such that forces 1 directed into the fence posts 10 and primary fence barrier 11 prevent bending moments of the fence posts 10. Opposing forces 109 provided by the fence posts 10 and primary fence barrier 11 counter the forces 108. The primary fence barrier 11 is continuous and extends lengthwise along the vertical, primary fence plane 101 as supported by the fence posts 10 as periodically positioned along the security perimeter 100.

In some embodiments, the primary fence barrier 11 is formed of a high tensile strength material such as wire mesh of sufficient gauge so as to generally prevent access therethrough. The solar panel fence installation 120 defines the vertical, primary fence plane 101 generally coextensive with the primary fence barrier 11 at the security perimeter 100 further defining the inner perimeter area 102 and the outer perimeter area 103. The upper fence portions 1 characterized by the region surrounding the upper fence post portions 13 may be outfitted with additional security measures in some applications. For example, in some applications, a secondary fence barrier 19 of wire mesh or similar other material construction may be outfitted upon the upper fence portions 13 that extends in a barrier plane 114 obliquely angled relative to the vertical, primary fence plane 101 at the oblique angle 104.

In some embodiments, the secondary fence barrier 19 may also be formed from a high tensile strength material such as wire mesh of sufficient gauge so as to generally prevent access therethrough. Further, a length of coiled barbed wire or length of coiled razor wire 15 may extend along the security perimeter 100 at the upper fence portions 13 to further prevent access to the inner perimeter area 102 from the outer perimeter area 103. Further, in some applications, a fence projection 28 may extend outwardly toward the outer perimeter area 103 in a direction out of the vertical, primary fence plane 101 to thwart vertical movement along the vertical, primary fence plane 101.

The solar panel fence installation 120 according to the presently disclosed subject matter may be said to comprise, in part, a fence comprising at least two fence posts as at 10 and at least a primary fence barrier as at 11. The fence posts 10 are spaced apart along the length of the vertical, primary fence barrier 11 and have an inner side 16 at the inner perimeter area 102 and an outer side 17 at the outer perimeter area 103. Each fence post 10 extends at least vertically to a furthermost edge 18 of the outer side 17 toward the outer perimeter area 103. The furthermost edges 18 of the two fence posts 10 together define together a vertical, secondary fence plane 1 generally parallel to the vertical, primary fence plane 101. The vertical, secondary fence plane 1 as referenced within these specifications may also be described as a "vertical fence plane" as distinct from and parallel to the primary fence plane 101.

The vertical, secondary fence plane 111 has an outer fence side 113 at the outer perimeter area 103 and an inner fence side 112 proximal to the fence posts 10 relative to the outer fence side 113. The inner fence side 112 of the vertical, secondary fence plane 111 is exterior relative to the vertical, primary fence plane 101 within the outer perimeter area 103. In some embodiments, the vertical, secondary fence plane 111 is tangent to the furthermost edges 18 and in some embodiments, the vertical, secondary fence plane 111 is tangent to a (proximal) panel edge 25 of a supported solar panel 23.

Stated another way, the solar panel fence installation 120 according to the presently disclosed subject matter comprises at least two fence posts 10 spaced along the security perimeter 100 each of which comprise a vertical fence portion 12 and an upper fence post portion 13 extending at an angle as at oblique angle 104 relative to the vertical fence post portion 12 toward the outer fence side 113 or outer perimeter area 103. The vertical fence post portions 12 define the vertical, primary fence plane 101 and outer ends or furthermost edges 18 of the upper fence post portions 13 define a vertical, secondary fence plane 111 parallel to the vertical, primary fence plane 101.

In some applications, the vertical, secondary fence plane 111 is parallel to the vertical, primary fence plane 101 and concentric about the security perimeter 100 as generally depicted in FIGS. and 3.

The solar panel fence installation 120 according to the presently disclosed subject matter further comprises a solar panel support system having at least two solar panel support arrangements 130 configured to support at least one solar panel 23. Each solar panel support arrangement 130 comprises a first or upper support member 20, a second or lower support member 21, and a cross-member panel support 22 together interconnected to form a polygonal panel support truss in some embodiments. The polygonal panel support trusses are configured for attachment to the fence posts 10 such that the first or upper support members 20 attach to first or upper (obliquely angled, in a non-limiting example) fence post portions 13; the second or lower support members 21 attach to second or lower (vertical) fence post portions 12. In some embodiments, the cross-member panel supports 22 respectively interconnect the first or upper and second or lower support members 20 and 21. It will be recalled that in some applications, the fence posts 10 may be limited to a vertically extending fence post without an obliquely angled upper fence post portion 13. In these applications, the first or upper support members 20 may be attached to vertically extending upper fence post portions.

Stated another way, the solar panel support system according to the presently disclosed subject matter comprises at least two solar panel support arrangements 130 configured to support at least one solar panel 23. Each solar panel support arrangement 130 comprises at least a first support member as at 20 and a second support member as at 21. Each solar panel support arrangement 130 is configured for attachment to a corresponding fence post 10 in spaced relation relative to one another along the fence. The first support members 20 attach to a corresponding first fence post portion and the second support members 21 attach to a corresponding second fence post portion. In some embodiments, the first support member is an upper support member as at and the second support member is a lower support member as at 21.

In some embodiments, each solar panel support arrangement 130 further comprises a cross- member panel support 22 extending intermediate the first and second support members 20 and 21.

The upper support members 20 are attached to corresponding first fence post portions, which, in some embodiments are characterized by upper fence post portions as at 13 and the lower support members 21 are attached to corresponding second fence post portions, which, in some embodiments, are lower fence post portions as at 12. The cross-member panel support 22 is configured to support the solar panel 23 such that a solar panel plane 115 of the solar panel(s) is angled as at 134 relative to the vertical, primary fence plane 101.

Any one of the first and second support members 20 and 21 and the cross-member panel support 22 may be formed of any suitable material or shape. In the embodiment shown in Fig. the first and second support members 20 and 21 and the cross-member panel support 22 are shown as formed with a rectangular profile or cross section. It is appreciated that any suitable shape. e.g. profile or cross section, is contemplated, such as a round rod in a non-limiting example.

As prefaced above, the first and second support members 20 and 21 together with the cross- member panel support 22 of each solar panel support arrangement 130 together form a polygonal panel support truss that attaches to a corresponding fence post 10 for supporting a solar panel 23.

In some embodiments, each polygonal panel support truss comprises at least one adjustable portion for selectively varying the angle 134 of the solar panel plane 115 relative to the vertical, primary fence plane 101 as may be desirable in view of the day arc of the Sun 140 during daily and/or seasonal changes as the Earth rotates about its tilted axis and orbits the Sun 140. The day arc refers to the daily and seasonal arc-like path the Sun 140 appears to follow across the sky as the Earth rotates and orbits the Sun 140. The path of the Sun 140 affects the length of daytime experienced and amount of daylight received along a certain latitude during a given season.

It is noted that the relative position of the Sun 140 is a major factor in the performance of solar energy systems. Accurate location-specific knowledge of sun path and climatic conditions is essential for economic decisions about solar panel installation and orientation. The solar zenith angle is the angle 117 between the rays 141 of the Sun 140 and the vertical direction or plane as at 118. It is the complement to the solar altitude or solar elevation, which is the altitude angle or elevation angle 121 between the rays 141 of the Sun 140 and a horizontal direction or plane 119.

At solar noon, the solar zenith angle 117 is at a minimum.

Comparatively referencing FIGS. 15 – 18, the reader will there consider the solar zenith angle 117 and the elevation angle 121 at differing seasonal stages. FIG. 15 depicts the elevation angle 121 of the Sun 140 at the summer solstice as at 122 when the solar zenith angle 117 is minimized; FIG. 16 depicts the elevation angle 121 of the Sun 140 at the winter solstice as at 1 when the solar zenith angle 117 is maximized; and FIG. 17 depicts the elevation angle 121 of the Sun 140 at the equinox as at 124 providing a solar zenith angle 117 equidistant intermediate the minimal and maximal solar zenith angles 117 of the summer and winter solstices 122 and 123.

The elevation angle 121 at the equinox is 23.5 degrees as referenced at 142 intermediate the elevation angles 121 at the summer solstice 122 and the winter solstice 123 positions. The angle 143 intermediate the summer solstice 122 solar zenith angle 117 and the winter solstice solar zenith angle 117 is 47 degrees.

In some embodiments, at least one of the first or upper and second or lower support members and 21 comprises an adjustable portion or is an adjustable member for selectively varying the angle 134 of the solar panel plane 115 of the solar panel 23 relative to the vertical, primary fence plane 101. The solar panel support arrangement(s) 130 are configured to variably angle the solar panel plane 115 relative to the vertical, primary fence plane 101 that extends parallel to the vertical direction or plane 118 and orthogonally relative to the horizontal direction or plane 119. In some embodiments, the adjustable portion or adjustable member is configured to be extendable intermediate a first position or configuration and a second position or configuration. For example, FIGS. 13A and 13B comparatively and respectively depict the second or lower support member 21 in a first configuration as at 144 and a second configuration as at 145.

In some embodiments, at least one of the first and second support members 20 and 21 is telescopically adjustable for selectively varying the angle 134 of the solar panel plane 115 relative to the vertical, primary fence plane 101. FIGS. 13A and 13B, for example, depict a telescopic second or lower support member 21. For ease of illustration, a telescopic upper support member has not been illustrated, but may be similarly implemented in some embodiments according to the presently disclosed subject matter. The exemplary second or lower support member 21 is telescopically extendable and retractable for selectively varying the angle 134 of the solar panel plane 115 relative to the vertical, primary fence plane 101.

Comparatively referencing FIGS. 12 through 14D, for example, the reader will there consider a first, fully retracted telescopic configuration 138 of the second or lower support member 21 as depicted in FIGS. 13A and 14A; a second, fully extended telescopic configuration 139 of the second or lower support member 21 as depicted in FIGS. 13B, 14C, and 14D, and a partially extended telescopic configuration 125 of the lower support member 21 as depicted in FIGS. and 14B. At least one of the telescopic portions 29 of the adjustable portion or adjustable member, as exemplified by the second or lower support member 21, may be apertured as at apertures 30 for receiving a pin 31 to fix the telescopic portions 29 in varied states of telescopic extension. An end 38 of the inner telescopic portion 29 of the lower support member 21 in FIG. 14A is illustrated as abutting the pivot point 127 to help the reader better understand the fully retracted telescopic configuration 138. It is noted that the adjustable portion or member may comprise any suitable mechanism facilitating the extension or retraction thereof.

Comparatively referencing FIG. 14B versus FIG. 14C, the reader will note differing angles 134’ and 134’’ denoting the angles between the solar panel plane 115 and the vertical, primary fence plane 101. The partially extended telescopic configuration 125 depicted in FIG. 14B results in an angle 134’ which angle is lesser in magnitude as compared to angle 134’’ that results from the fully extended telescopic configuration 139. Referencing FIG. 14D, the reader will there consider the oblique angle 104 as a complement to angle 161. In a not limiting example, angle 161 may be defined as 136 degrees and oblique angle 104 may be defined as 44 degrees. Angle 162 may be defined as 51 degrees and angle 163 may be defined as 49 degrees. Angle 164 may be defined as 10 degrees and angle 165 may be defined as 36 degrees. The complementary angle 134’’ to angle 164 may accordingly be defined as 80 degrees as compared to angle 134’ defined as 78 degrees in these illustrated examples.

In accordance with an embodiment of the present application, the adjustable member is configured to facilitate positioning of the solar panel plane 115 at a "solar efficient angle", which is the angular position of the solar panel plane 115 that can yield the highest conversion ratio or output , namely the maximal efficiency of sunlight to electricity, by the solar panel plane 115.

Typically, maximal solar conversion efficiency is achieved when the solar efficient angle positions the solar panel plane 115 generally perpendicular to the sun rays 141.

The solar efficient angle can vary from one solar panel to another and may depend on a plurality of parameters, such as the location of the solar panel 23 along the fence at any of the southern fence line 147, the western fence line 148, the eastern fence line 149 or the northern fence line 133. As described herein, it is known that at the northern hemisphere the maximal conversion efficiency is achieved when solar panels 23 are southerly directed 129. Yet to benefit from the space provided along the fence without be limited to a single fence line, the adjustable member facilitates the adjustment of the solar panel 23 at the solar efficient angle, which may constitute angle 164 . In a non limiting example, in order to compensate for positioning the solar panel facing non-southerly directed (e.g. eastwardly directed , typically when the solar panel is installed along the western fence line 148), the adjustable member facilitates positioning the solar panel 23 at the solar efficient angle.

In a non-limiting example, the adjustable member is designed to allow titling the solar panel 23 along the solar panel plane 115 to any angle within the range of 0 to 50 degrees. In another non- limiting example, the adjustable member is designed to allow titling the solar panel 23 along the solar panel plane 115 to any angle within the range of 0 to 30 degrees. In another non-limiting example, the adjustable member is designed to allow titling the solar panel 23 along the solar panel plane 115 to any angle within the range of 0 to 20 degrees. In another non-limiting example, the adjustable member is designed to allow titling the solar panel 23 along the solar panel plane 1 to any angle within the range of 0 to 15 degrees. In another non-limiting example, the adjustable member is designed to allow titling the solar panel 23 along the solar panel plane 115 to any angle within the range of 0 to 10 degrees.

The adjustable member is configured to assume a plurality of positions in order to allow positioning the solar panel at any one of the determined solar efficient angles. This may be performed by moving the adjustable member from the first position to the second or to any intermediary position, such as shown in Figs. 14A, B and C. Accordingly, the solar panel is positionable at the solar efficient angle. The adjustable portion is extendable and retractable to any suitable length allowing for positioning the solar panels at the solar efficient angle.

In some embodiments, the cross-member panel supports 22 are pivotally attached to the first or upper and second or lower support members 20 and 21 for supporting solar panel plane variance or angular adjustability of the solar panel plane 115 relative to the vertical, primary fence plane 101. In this regard, the reader is directed to a first pivot point as at 126 and a second pivot point as at 127. In some embodiments, the cross-member panel supports 22 are pivotally attached to the second or lower support members 21 by way of linkage members 24 for further supporting the described solar panel plane variance or angular adjustability of the solar panel plane 115 relative to a vertical, primary fence plane 101. To maximize the effectiveness of solar power collection, the angle 134 of the solar panel plane 115 may be adjusted so as to present an orthogonal plane configuration relative to the rays 141 of the Sun 140 as generally and comparatively depicted in FIGS. 15 through 17.

The linkage members 24 may be formed of any suitable material and may be formed in any suitable shape and size.

Depending on the time of year and the relative position of the solar panel fence installation 120, the angle 134 of the solar panel plane 115 may be adjusted by the adjustable portion(s) or adjustable member(s) of the solar panel support arrangement(s) 130. In a preferred application or installation, the solar panel support arrangements 130 are attached to corresponding fence posts such that the supported solar panels 23 are inclined to face a southerly direction 129 as generally depicted in FIG. 4 adjacent cardinal direction indicator 160. At the winter solstice 123 when the elevation angle 121 of the Sun 140 is minimal, the second or lower support member 21 may be adjusted or configured to the first, fully retracted position 138 so as to adjust the angle 134 of the solar panel plane 115 into a maximum angle 131 relative to the horizontal plane 119 as generally depicted in FIG. 17. During the summer solstice 122 when the elevation angle 121 is greatest, the second or lower support member 21 may be adjusted or configured to a partially extended configuration 125 so as to adjust the angle 134 of the solar panel plane 115 into a minimum angle 132 relative to the horizontal plane 119 as generally depicted in FIG. 15. At the equinox, the second or lower support member 21 may be similarly adjusted so as to provide an angle 134 of the solar panel plane 115 intermediate the maximum and minimum angles 131 and 132 as generally depicted in FIG. 16.

It is noted the solar panels 23 typically face a southerly direction 129 so as to maximize exposure to the rays 141 of the Sun 140. Solar panel support arrangements 130 attached to a northern fence line 133 of the security perimeter 100 may be configured to provide an angle 1 of the solar panel plane 115 such the solar panel plane 115 extends downwardly as at 146 into or toward the inner perimeter area 102. While southerly directed 129 solar panel configurations are generally considered preferable, other arrangements are possible as generally further depicted in FIGS. 5 and 6. In some solar panel fence installations 120 according to the presently disclosed subject matter, the solar panel support arrangements 130 may also be attached to a southern fence line 147, a western fence line 148, and an eastern fence line 149 of the security perimeter 100, for example.

When attached to a southern fence line 147, the solar panel support arrangements 130 may be configured to provide a solar panel plane 115 that extends downwardly into the outer perimeter area 103 south of the security perimeter 100 as referenced at 150. At least one of the first or upper and second or lower support members 20 and 21 may be adjusted to provide these angular arrangements. In some applications, the furthermost edges 18 of the upper fence post portions may be configured to provide an angular stop or limiting portion as at 32 that abuts a proximal panel edge 25 of the solar panel 23 as generally depicted in FIG. 22. In other words, in some embodiments, the upper fence post portions 13 comprise a limiting portion 32 for limiting angular adjustment of the solar panel 23 in a first direction.

Each solar panel 23 has a proximal panel edge as at 25 extending toward the outer perimeter area 103 and a distal panel edge as at 26 extending toward the inner perimeter area 102 with a solar panel width 135 extending therebetween. The solar panel width 135 may be of varying dimensions as comparatively depicted in FIG. 9 versus FIG. 10. In some embodiments, the proximal panel edge 25 of the solar panel 23 terminates proximally of the vertical, secondary fence plane 111 that extends parallel to the vertical, primary fence plane 101 as generally depicted in FIGS. 9, 10, 21, and 22. In other words, the proximal panel edge 25 of the solar panel 23 does not extend through the vertical, secondary fence plane 111, but terminates inwardly of the vertical, secondary fence plane 111. In some embodiments, adjacent solar panel support arrangements 130 are attached to fence posts 10 so as to support a solar panel 23 having a panel length as at 136.

In some embodiments, at least a portion of the first or upper support members 20 extend in parallel relation relative to the vertical, primary fence plane 101 in a first support member plane 137 intermediate the vertical, primary fence plane 101 and the vertical, secondary fence plane 111.

In some embodiments, linkage members 24 interconnect the cross-member panel supports 22 to the first or upper support members 20 and the second or lower support members 21. Further, in some embodiments, linkage members 24 further interconnect the second or lower support members 21 to the second or lower (vertical) fence post portions 12.

In some embodiments, the linkage members 24 that attach the second or lower support members 21 to the lower, vertical fence post portions 12 extend toward the inner perimeter area 102 away from the vertical, primary fence plane 101. The linkage members 24 that interconnect the cross-member panel supports 22 to the second or lower support members 21 extend downwardly from the cross-member panel supports 22 to interface with and connect thereto.

Opposed ends 27 of the second or lower support members 21 are connected to these linkage members 24 in some embodiments. In some embodiments, at least one of the cross-member panel supports 22 and second or lower support members 21 are pivotally connected to the linkage members 24 as at pivot points 126, 127, and 128. In some embodiments, the pivot point 126 may be alternatively configured in unitary first or upper support member 20 as generally depicted in FIG. 24.

In some embodiments, portions of the first or upper support members 20 fixedly extend in parallel relation relative to the vertical, primary fence plane 101 along the support member plane 137. As previously described, the solar panel support arrangement 130 of the solar panel support system according to the presently disclosed subject matter may include a first or upper support member 20, a second or lower support member 21, and a cross-member panel support 22 in some applications. The first or upper support member 20, the second or lower support member 21, and the cross-member panel support 22 together interconnect to form a polygonal panel support truss.

The first or upper support member 20 comprises a member axis as at 151 generally coextensive with the support member plane 137; the second or lower support member comprises a member axis 152; and the cross-member panel support 22 comprises a member axis 153. The member axes 151, 152, and 153 together define a triangular polygon as generally depicted and referenced at 154 in FIG. 11. The triangular polygon 154 of each polygonal panel support truss defines a fence-exterior vertex as referenced at 155. The fence-exterior vertices 1 of the solar panel support arrangements 130 are positioned intermediate the vertical, primary fence plane 101 and the vertical, secondary fence plane 111.

In some embodiments according to the presently disclosed subject matter, the solar panels 23 are connected to the cross-member panel supports 22 via bridge brackets 33 positioned adjacent the proximal panel edge 25 and the distal panel edge 26 of the solar panel(s) 23. In some embodiments, the bridge brackets 33 are positioned along any location of the solar panel, such as along the panel support portion. In some embodiments, solar panel support rails 34 extend along the proximal and distal panel edges 25 and 26 in parallel relation thereto intermediate the solar panel(s) 23 and the bridge brackets 33 as generally depicted in FIGS. 23 and 24. In some embodiments, the solar panel support rails 34 support a series of solar panels 23 aligned in end-to- end relation to one another along the vertical, primary fence plane 101 as supported by a series of sequentially spaced polygonal panel support trusses that form the solar panel support arrangements 130.

The brackets 33 may be formed of any suitable material and may be formed in any suitable shape and size.

In some embodiments, the solar panel support rails 34 provide a mounting portion as at along which a light strip 36 may be mounted. The solar panel(s) 23 may be in electrical communication with the light strip 36 for powering the light strip 36 as mounted to the mounting portion 35 in some applications. In some embodiments, the mounting portion 35 is a bottom edge of the solar panel support rails 34. The light strip 36 extends along the length of the bottom edge or mounting portion 35 in some embodiments as generally depicted in FIG. 24. At the bridge brackets 33, the light strip 36 extends through open portions 37 of the bridge brackets 33 in some embodiments. While the presently disclosed subject matter contemplates a light strip accessory for use in combination with the solar panel fence installation 120, other accessories that may be powered by the solar panel(s) 23 are contemplated, including surveillance cameras and other security equipment. The light strip 36 is an exemplary accessory contemplated by these specifications.

The solar panel fence installation 120 according to the presently disclosed subject matter may thus be said to further comprise, in part, a solar panel support system for use with a fence including fence posts 10. The solar panel support system according to the presently described subject matter comprises at least two solar panel support arrangements as at 130. Each solar panel support arrangement 130 comprises a first support member and a second support member, as exemplified by the upper support members 20 and the lower support members 21. Each solar panel support arrangement 130 is configured for attachment to a corresponding fence post 10 in spaced relation relative to one another along the fence such that each of the first support members attaches to a corresponding first fence post portion and each of the second support members attaches to a corresponding second fence post portion.

In some applications, the first fence post portion is an upper fence post portion and the second fence post portion is a lower fence post portion. The solar panel support system according to the presently disclosed subject matter further comprises at least one solar panel 23 terminating at a panel edge thereof as characterized by the proximal panel edge 25 that faces the outer perimeter area 103 and has a panel support portion. In some embodiments, the panel support portion(s) are those portions that are supported by the solar panel support rails 34. At least two solar panel support arrangements 130 are configured to support the solar panel(s) 23 at the panel support portions so that the panel edge 25 is entirely facing the vertical, secondary fence plane 111 at the inner fence side 112.

The at least two solar panel support arrangements 130 are configured to support the at least one solar panel 23 at the panel support portions so that the panel edge 25 is entirely facing the vertical fence plane 111 at the inner fence side 112. In some embodiments, this structural arrangement may be characterized such that at least 80% of the solar panel 23 is facing the vertical fence plane 111 at the inner fence side 112, namely at least 80% of the solar panel 23 is positioned within the inner perimeter area 102. In some embodiments, the phrase may include that at least 90% of the solar panel 23 is facing the vertical fence plane 111 at the inner fence side 112, namely at least 90% of the solar panel 23 is positioned within the inner perimeter area 102.

In some embodiments, the at least two solar panel support arrangements 130 are configured to support the at least one solar panel 23 at the panel support portions so that the outer perimeter area 103 is free of at least one or more of the solar panels 23 and the solar panel support arrangements 130 and any component related thereto. In some embodiments, the outer perimeter area 103 is free of at least one or more of the solar panels 23 and the solar panel support arrangements 130 and any component related thereto at least in a region which is proximal to or in the vicinity of the outer fence side 113 of the vertical fence plane 111 (e.g., a region defined in the outer perimeter area 103 at the vicinity of the outer fence side 113 of the vertical, secondary fence plane 111, as generally depicted in FIG. 8). When the fence installation is characterized by a heightened security fence installation, the solar panel support arrangements 130 are configured such that the panel edge 25 is entirely facing the vertical fence plane 111 at the inner fence side 112 to (1) enhance the degree of safety of the solar panel fence installation 120 and/or (2) to comply with security regulations requiring the outer fence side 113 to be free of any elements.

While various inventive examples have been described and illustrated herein, those of ordinary skill in the art will readily envision a variety of other means, materials, or structure for performing the function, obtaining the results, or one or more of the advantages described herein, and each of such variations or modifications is deemed to be within the scope of the inventive examples described herein. More generally, those skilled in the art will readily appreciate that all parameters, dimensions, materials, and configurations described herein are meant to be for example only and that the actual parameters, dimensions, materials, and configurations will depend upon the specific application or applications for which the inventive teachings is/are used. Those skilled in the art will recognize or be able to ascertain using no more than routine experimentation, many equivalents to the specific inventive examples described herein. It is, therefore, to be understood that the foregoing examples are presented by way of example only and that, within the scope of the appended claims, equivalents thereto, and any claims supported by the present disclosure, inventive examples may be practiced otherwise than as specifically described and claimed. Inventive examples of the present disclosure are directed to each individual feature, system, article, material, composition, kit, method, and step, described herein. In addition, any combination of two or more such features, systems, articles, materials, compositions, kits, methods, and steps, if such features, systems, articles, materials, compositions, kits, methods, and steps, are not mutually inconsistent, is included within the inventive scope of the present disclosure.

Examples disclosed herein may also be combined with one or more features, functionality, or materials, as well as complete systems, devices or methods, to yield yet other examples and inventions. Moreover, some examples, may be distinguishable from the prior art by specifically lacking one and/or another feature disclosed in the particular prior art reference(s); i.e., claims to some examples may be distinguishable from the prior art by including one or more negative limitations.

Also, as noted, various inventive concepts may be embodied as one or more methods, of which an example has been provided. The acts performed as part of the method may be ordered in any suitable way. Accordingly, examples may be constructed in which acts are performed in an order different than illustrated, which may include performing some acts simultaneously, even though shown as sequential acts in illustrative examples.

Any and all references to publications or other documents, including but not limited to, patents, patent applications, articles, webpages, books, etc., presented anywhere in the present application, are herein incorporated by reference in their entirety. Moreover, all definitions, as defined and used herein, should be understood to control over dictionary definitions, definitions in documents incorporated by reference, and ordinary meanings of the defined terms.

The indefinite articles "a" and "an," as used herein in the specification and in the claims, unless clearly indicated to the contrary, should be understood to mean "at least one." The phrase "and/or," as used herein in the specification and in the claims, should be understood to mean "either or both" of the elements so conjoined, i.e., elements that are conjunctively present in some cases and disjunctively present in other cases. Multiple elements listed with "and/or" should be construed in the same fashion, i.e., "one or more" of the elements so conjoined. Other elements may optionally be present other than the elements specifically identified by the "and/or" clause, whether related or unrelated to those elements specifically identified. Thus, as a non-limiting example, a reference to "A and/or B", when used in conjunction with open-ended language such as "comprising" can refer, in one example, to A only (optionally including elements other than B); in another example, to B only (optionally including elements other than A); in yet another example, to both A and B (optionally including other elements); etc.

As used herein in the specification and in the claims, "or" should be understood to have the same meaning as "and/or" as defined above. For example, when separating items in a list, "or" or "and/or" shall be interpreted as being inclusive, i.e., the inclusion of at least one, but also including more than one, of a number or list of elements, and, optionally, additional unlisted items.

Only terms clearly indicated to the contrary, such as "only one of" or "exactly one of," or, when used in the claims, "consisting of," will refer to the inclusion of exactly one element of a number or list of elements. In general, the term "or" as used herein shall only be interpreted as indicating exclusive alternatives (i.e. "one or the other but not both") when preceded by terms of exclusivity, such as "either," "one of," "only one of," or "exactly one of." "Consisting essentially of," when used in the claims, shall have its ordinary meaning as used in the field of patent law.

As used herein in the specification and in the claims, the phrase "at least one," in reference to a list of one or more elements, should be understood to mean at least one element selected from any one or more of the elements in the list of elements, but not necessarily including at least one of each and every element specifically listed within the list of elements and not excluding any combinations of elements in the list of elements. This definition also allows that elements may optionally be present other than the elements specifically identified within the list of elements to which the phrase "at least one" refers, whether related or unrelated to those elements specifically identified. Thus, as a non-limiting example, "at least one of A and B" (or, equivalently, "at least one of A or B," or, equivalently "at least one of A and/or B") can refer, in one example, to at least one, optionally including more than one, A, with no B present (and optionally including elements other than B); in another example, to at least one, optionally including more than one, B, with no A present (and optionally including elements other than A); in yet another example, to at least one, optionally including more than one, A, and at least one, optionally including more than one, B (and optionally including other elements); etc.

In the claims, as well as in the specification above, all transitional phrases such as "comprising," "including," "carrying," "having," "containing," "involving," "holding," "composed of," and the like are to be understood to be open-ended, i.e., to mean including but not limited to. Only the transitional phrases "consisting of" and "consisting essentially of" shall be closed or semi-closed transitional phrases, respectively.

Although various example embodiments have been described in detail herein, however, in view of the present disclosure many modifications are possible in the example embodiments without materially departing from the concepts of present disclosure. Accordingly, any such modifications are intended to be included in the scope of this disclosure. Likewise, while the disclosure herein contains many specific combinations, these specific combinations should not be construed as limiting the scope of the disclosure or of any of the appended claims, but are provided as a description pertinent to one or more specific embodiments that may fall within the scope of the disclosure and the appended claims. Any described features from the various embodiments disclosed may be employed in combination with other disclosed embodiments. In addition, other embodiments of the present disclosure may also be devised which lie within the scopes of the disclosure and the appended claims.

This disclosure provides various examples, embodiments, and features which, unless expressly stated or which would be mutually exclusive, should be understood to be combinable with other examples, embodiments, or features described herein.

Claims

-49- 02977778144- 309203/ What is claimed is:

1. A solar panel support system for use with a security fence including fence posts, each fence post including a vertical fence post portion and an upper fence post portion extending at an oblique angle relative to the vertical fence post portion, the solar panel support system comprising: at least two solar panel support arrangements configured to support at least one solar panel, each solar panel support arrangement being configured for attachment to a corresponding fence post in spaced relation relative to one another along the security fence, wherein each solar panel support arrangement comprises: a first support member configured to be attached to the upper fence post portion of the corresponding fence post, and a second support member configured to be attached to the vertical fence post portion of the corresponding fence post.

2. The solar panel support system according to Claim 1 wherein each solar panel support arrangement comprises a cross-member panel support extending intermediate the first and second support members.

3. The solar panel support system according to any one of the preceding Claims wherein the first support member is an upper support member and the second support member is a lower support member. -50- 02977778144-

4. The solar panel support system according to any one of Claims 2 through 3 when dependent on Claim 2 wherein each cross-member panel support is configured to support the solar panel such that a solar panel plane is angled relative to a primary fence plane.

5. The solar panel support system according to any one of Claims 2 through 4 wherein the first and second support members together with the cross-member panel support, together form a polygonal panel support truss.

6. The solar panel support system according to Claim 5, when dependent on Claim 4 wherein each polygonal panel support truss comprises at least one adjustable portion for selectively varying the angle of the solar panel plane relative to the primary fence plane.

7. The solar panel support system according to Claim 4, or Claim 5 or 6, when dependent on Claim 4 wherein at least one of the first and second support members has an adjustable portion for selectively varying the angle of the solar panel plane relative to the primary fence plane.

8. The solar panel support system according to Claim 7 wherein the adjustable portion is configured to be extendable intermediate a first configuration and a second configuration.

9. The solar panel support system according to Claim 8 wherein the adjustable portion is extendable and retractable to a length for positioning the at least one solar panel at a solar efficient angle. -51- 02977778144-

10. The solar panel support system according to any of the preceding claims wherein at least one of the first and second support members is telescopically adjustable for selectively varying the angle of the solar panel plane relative to the primary fence plane.

11. The solar panel support system according to any one of Claim 2 or Claims 3 through 10, when dependent on Claim 2, wherein the cross-member panel support is pivotally attached to the first and second support members for supporting solar panel plane variance relative to the primary fence plane.

12. The solar panel support system according to any one of the preceding claims wherein a proximal panel edge of the at least one solar panel terminates proximally of a vertical, secondary fence plane parallel to the primary fence plane.

13. The solar panel support system according to Claim 11 wherein at least a portion of the first support members extend in parallel relation relative to the primary fence plane.

14. The solar panel support system according to any one of Claims 11 and 13 wherein portions of the first support members fixedly extend in parallel relation relative to the primary fence plane. -52- 02977778144-

15. The solar panel support system according to any one of Claim 2, or Claims 3 through when dependent on Claim 2 wherein linkage members interconnect the cross-member panel support to the first and second support members.

16. The solar panel support system according to Claim 15 wherein the linkage members extend toward an inner perimeter area away from a primary fence plane and downwardly from the cross-member panel supports to interface with and connect to opposed ends of any one of the first and second support members.

17. The solar panel support system according to Claim 16 wherein at least one of the cross- member panel support and any one of the first and second support members are pivotally connected to the linkage members.

18. The solar panel support system according to any one of Claim 2, or Claims 3 through when dependent on Claim 2 wherein the at least one solar panel is connected to the cross- member panel support via bridge brackets.

19. The solar panel support system according to Claim 18 wherein solar panel support rails extend along proximal and distal panel edges of the at least one solar panel intermediate at least one the solar panel and said bridge brackets. -53- 02977778144-

20. The solar panel support system according to Claim 19 wherein the solar panel support rails provide a mounting portion along which a light strip is mounted, the solar panel for powering the light strip as mounted to the mounting portion.

21. The solar panel support system according to Claim 20 wherein the light strip extends through open portions of the bridge brackets.

22. The solar panel support system according to Claims 19 through 21 wherein the solar panel support rails support a series of solar panels aligned in end-to-end relation to one another along the primary fence plane as supported by a series of sequentially spaced polygonal panel support trusses.

23. A solar panel fence installation comprising: a security fence comprising at least two fence posts spaced apart along the security fence, each fence post having an inner post side and an outer post side, each fence post including a vertical fence post portion and an upper fence post portion extending at an oblique angle relative to the vertical fence post portion, each fence post extending to a furthermost edge of the outer post side, the vertical fence post portion defining a vertical, primary fence plane, the furthermost edges of the at least two fence posts defining together a vertical, secondary fence plane having an outer fence side and an inner fence side proximal to the fence posts relative to the outer fence side; a solar panel support system for use with the security fence comprising: -54- 02977778144- at least two solar panel support arrangements, each solar panel support arrangement being configured for attachment to a corresponding fence post of the at least two fence posts, each solar panel support arrangement comprising: a first support member configured to be attached to the upper fence post portion of the corresponding fence post and a second support member configured to be attached to the vertical fence post portion of the corresponding fence post; and at least one solar panel terminating at a panel edge thereof facing the vertical, secondary fence plane and having a panel support portion; wherein the at least two solar panel support arrangements are configured to support the at least one solar panel at the panel support portion so that said panel edge is entirely facing the vertical, secondary fence plane at the inner fence side.

24. The solar panel fence installation according to Claim 23 wherein the vertical, secondary fence plane is tangent to the furthermost edges.

25. The solar panel fence installation according to any one of Claims 23 and 24 wherein the vertical, secondary fence plane is tangent to the panel edge.

26. The solar panel fence installation according to any one of Claims 23 through 25 wherein each solar panel support arrangement comprises a cross-member panel support extending intermediate the first and second support members. -55- 02977778144-

27. The solar panel fence installation according to any one of Claims 23 through 26 wherein the first support member is an upper support member and the second support member is a lower support member.

28. The solar panel fence installation according to Claim 26 wherein the cross-member panel support is configured to support the panel support portion such that a solar panel plane is angled relative to the vertical, secondary fence plane.

29. The solar panel fence installation according to any one of Claims 26 and 28 wherein the first and second support members together with the cross-member panel support of each solar panel support arrangement together form a polygonal panel support truss.

30. The solar panel fence installation according to Claim 29 when dependent on Claim wherein each polygonal panel support truss comprises at least one adjustable portion for selectively varying the angle of the solar panel plane relative to the vertical, secondary fence plane.

31. The solar panel fence installation according to any one of Claims 23 through 30 wherein at least one of the first and second support members has an adjustable member for selectively varying the angle of the solar panel plane relative to the vertical, secondary fence plane.

32. The solar panel fence installation according to Claim 31 wherein the adjustable member is configured to be extendable intermediate a first configuration and a second configuration. -56- 02977778144-

33. The solar panel fence installation according to Claim 32 wherein at least one of the first and second support members is telescopically adjustable for selectively varying the angle of the solar panel plane angle relative to the vertical, secondary fence plane.

34. The solar panel fence installation according to any one of Claims 31 through 33 wherein the adjustable portion is extendable and retractable to a length for positioning the at least one solar panel at a solar efficient angle.

35. The solar panel fence installation according to any one of Claim 26 and Claims 28 through 34 where dependent on Claim 26 wherein the cross-member panel support is pivotally attached to the first and second support members for supporting solar panel plane variance relative to the vertical, secondary fence plane.

36. The solar panel fence installation according to any one of Claims 23 through 35 wherein at least a portion of any one of the first and second support members extend in parallel relation relative to the vertical, secondary fence plane.

37. The solar panel fence installation according to any one of Claim 26 and Claims 28 through 36 where dependent on Claim 26 wherein linkage members interconnect the cross-member panel support to one or both of the first and second support members. -57- 02977778144-

38. The solar panel fence installation according to Claim 37 wherein linkage members interconnect the second support members to the fence posts.

39. The solar panel fence installation according to Claim 38 wherein the cross-member panel support and any one of the first and second support members are pivotally connected to the linkage members.

40. The solar panel fence installation according to Claim 26 wherein the panel support portion is connected to the cross-member panel supports via bridge brackets.

41. The solar panel fence installation according to Claim 40 wherein solar panel support rails extend intermediate the panel support portion and the bridge brackets.

42. The solar panel fence installation according to Claim 41 wherein the solar panel support rails provide a mounting portion along which a light strip is mounted, the solar panel for powering the light strip as mounted to the mounting portion; and optionally: the light strip extending through open portions of the bridge brackets; and the solar panel support rails support a series of solar panels aligned in end-to-end relation to one another along the vertical, secondary fence plane as supported by a series of sequentially spaced solar panel support arrangements.

43. The solar panel fence installation according to Claim 23 wherein the upper fence post portion comprises a limiting portion for limiting angular adjustment of the at least one solar panel. -58- 02977778144-

44. The solar panel fence installation according to any one of Claims 23 through 43 wherein the panel edge terminates inwardly of the vertical, secondary fence plane toward the inner fence side.