FIELD

[00011 T e present teachings generally relate to a support that connects two adjacent panels, and more specifically a support that can be added between to adjacent panels white the panels are In a fixed position.

BACKGROUND

[00021 Roofs on homes and buildings generally are formed by adding a plurality of pieces of panels together so that one generally contiguous roofing surface is formed. The plurality of pieces of panels are supported by one or more support beams. These support beams may be spaced apart so that the roof provides adequate structure to support the plurality of pieces of panels, shingles, and other standard roofing components. The support beams may be spaced apart so that the roof has load bearing characteristics for normal roofing components and when additional weight is applied to the roof, the pturality of pieces of panels deflect so thai one piece may extend below another piece. Some defiection Is acceptable for norma! roofs as additional weight is infrequently added to the roof and the components of the roof are capable of moving during this deflection without being damaged. However, if while building a roof it is contemplated thai additional load bearing capabilities will be expected of the roof, such as adding solar modules, the support beams may be buiit closer together so thai deflection of the plurality of pieces of panels is minimized and/or eliminated,

[00031 Generally, however, a roof is built and it is later decided ihat additional load bearing capabilities are needed. In the event that additional load bearing capabilities are needed the roof is typica!iy taken apart so that additional support can be added to the plurality of panels. In som instances when the plurality of panels are removed additional support beams are added to the roof so that the deflection is substantially reduced and/or eliminated, in other instances, panels may be removed so that support brackets may be added between two adjacent pieces of panels so that the two adjacent panels are connected and deflection is substantially reduced and/or eliminated. Examples of some Known edge supports that may be added between two adjacent pieces of panels may be found in U.S. Patent Nos. D260481; 3,297,345; 4,703,603; 4,729,197; 5,617,731; 5,966,893; 6,301 ,856; 7,444,792; and 7,784,756; and U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2008/0250742, at! of which are incorporated by reference herein for all purposes. Currently, adding either supports or additional trusses require that the plurality of pieces of panels are removed which is expensive and time consuming. [0004] It would be attractive to have a device that provides additional load being capabilities without having to disassemble a!! or a portion of a roof, it would be attractive to have a device that can be added between two adjacent pieces of panels that couples the edges of two adjacent pieces of paneis together and substantially eliminates deflection of the pieces of paneis relative to each other, it would be attractive to have an inexpensive device that can be added to an existing roof structure by a single installer.

SUMMARY

[000SJ The present teachings meet one or more of the present needs by providing: a device comprising: a device comprising: (a) a first part having a shape so that the first part is fully and/or partially insertafa!e through a seam between two adjacent panels and (b) a second part having a shape so that the second part is at least partially insertabie through the seam between the two adjacent panels; wherein the first part and the second part are connected iogether via a connection region and wherein the first part, the second part, or both when extended through the seam between the two adjacent paneis simultaneously engages both of the two adjacent panels so that movement of a first panel is transferred to a second panel or vice versa, via the mu!ti-part device, and deflection of the firs panel, the second panel, or both is minimized and/or substantially eliminated.

[0006} One possible embodiment of the present teachings include: a device comprising: a first part comprising; a connecting region and two spaced apart support regions, wherein the connecting region is located between the two support regions and the two support regions are substantially parallel, a second part comprising: a connecting region and two spaced apart support regions, wherein the connection region is located between the two support regions and the two support regions are substantially parallel; wherein the first part and the second part are adapted to extend through a seam between two adjacent paneis and connect via the connection region so that one of the two spaced apart support regions of the first part and the second part are located above one of the two adjacent paneis, and one of the two spaced apart support regions of the first part and the second part are located below one of the two adjacent paneis.

[00071 O possible method for installing a clip includes: placing the device taught herein in the seam between two adjacent panels and securing the first part and the second part together so that the device restricts movement of the two adjacent paneis relative to each other.

[00081 The teachings herein surprisingly solve one or more of these problems by providing a device and/or method that provides additional load being capabilities without having to disassemble all or a portion of a roof. The teachings herein are a device that can be added between two adjacent pieces of panels that couples the edges of two adjacent pieces of panels together and substantially eliminates deflection of the pieces of panels relative to each other. The teachings herein are an inexpensive device that can be added to an existing roof structure by a single installer.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[00093 F!G- 1 illustrates an exploded view of one possible embodiment of the device taught herein;

[0010} FIG. 2 illustrates a perspective view of FIG. 1 ;

[00113 3A-3C illustrate a sequence of the device being inserted into a gap between two adjacent panels;

[0012] FIG. 4 illustrates a top view of the device;

[00133 5A-5G illustrate a sequence of installing one possible embodiment of the device being inserted in a gap between two adjacent panels;

[00141 FIG. 6 illustrates a perspective view of half of another embodiment of the device taught herein;

[001SJ FIG. 7 illustrates a side view of the device taught herein;

[0016] FIG, 8 illustrates a top view of another embodiment of the device taught herein;

[0017J FIG. 9 illustrates a cross-sectional view of the device during a force apply; and [00183 F!G- 10 illustrates an example of a roof with solar modules.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[00193 The explanations and illustrations presented herein are intended to acquaint others skilled in the art with the teachings, its principles, and its practical application. Those skilled in the art may adapt and apply the teachings in its numerous fonns, as may be best suited to the requirements of a particular use. Accordingly, the specific embodiments of the present teachings as set forth are not intended as being exhaustive or limiting of the teachings. The scope of the teachings should, therefore, be determined not with reference to the above description, but should instead be determined with reference to the appended claims, along with the fuli scope of equivalents to which such claims are entitled. The disclosures of all articles and references, including patent applications and publications, are incorporated by reference for all purposes. Other combinations are also possible as wili be gleaned from the following claims, which are also hereby incorporated by reference into this written description.

[0020| The device as taught herein is a multi-piece device. The mufti-piece device includes at least two discrete pieces. The at least two discrete pieces include a first part and a second part. The first part may be any size and shape so that the first part is extendable and/or insertabie through a gap between two adjacent panels. The first part may have any shape or size so that aif or a portion of the first part extends between a gap and the first part contacts both a first panel and a second panei. The first part may contact both the first pane! and the second panei on the top side, the bottom side, or both, in one preferred embodiment, the first part may contact one top side and one bottom side of two adjacent paneis. The first part may be free of contact with the edges of the two opposing paneis. For examp!e, the first part may extend fully through the gap so that the entire first part is disposed below the too adjacent panels. The first part may contact the edges of the two opposing paneis proximate to the gap. For example, the first part may extend partially though the gap so that a portion is Iocated above the two adjacent panels, a portion is Iocated beiow the two adjacent panels, and a portion is !ocaied between the two adjacent panels. The first part may include one or more regions.

IOO213 T e first part preferably includes one or more support regions and at least one connection region. More preferably, the first part includes two or more support regions and one or more connection regions. The one or more support regions may be any region that directly contacts one or more surfaces of a panel. The one or more suppori regions may be any part of the device that supports one or more edges of the panels so that deflection of one or both paneis are reduced and or substantially eliminated. The one or more support regions may be any part of the device that contacts at least one surface of a panei and resists deflection, assists in resisting deflection, provides support, counteracts deflection, maintains the edges of the two adjacent paneis substantially in the same plane, or a combination thereof. The one or more support regions may create and/or provide a one or more reactionary forces. For example, during a deflection the panei may be pushed down and begin to deflect, and the support region wil! provide a reactionary force up so that movement of the panei down is reduced and/or substaniiaiiy eliminated. The one or more support regions may be any region of the device thai is substaniiaiiy parallel to one or more paneis. The one or more support regions may be angled so that an end of the support region is angled towards the panel so that at least a portion of the support region is in contact with the panel during a rest position, a deflection position, o a position therebetween. The one or mor support regions may be angled so that the device once connected is in tension and/or compression so that the too adjoining panels move substantially in unison. The support regions may form an angle with a plane parallel to a panei of about 5 percent or less, about 3 percent or less, or about 1 percent or less. The suppori regions may form an angle with a plane parallel to a panel of about -5 percent or less, about -3 percent or less, or about -1 percent or less. The one o more support regions may include one or more grippers. [0022J The grippers may be any part of the support regions that connects the device to the two adjacent paneis. The grippers may be any part of the support regions thai prevents the support regions from rotating, being disconnected from the paneis, twisting, or a combination thereof during installation, use, or both. The grippers may extend from the support regions at any location along the length of the support regions. The grippers may grip the panels without damaging the paneis. Preferably, the grippers grip the panels by all or a portion of the gripper being embedded within the panels so that the grippers maintain the position of the device relative to the paneis, the device moves with the paneis, movement of the device independent of the pane! is substantially reduced and/or eliminated, or a combination thereof. The grippers may be any size and shape so that the gripper functions to restrict movement of the device independent of the panels. The grippers may be triangular, half circular, square, pencil shaped, or a combination thereof. Preferably, the grippers extend from the ends of the support regions. The connection regions may be free of grippers,

[0023} The one or mor connection regions may be any portion of the first part that connects the first part to the second pari. The one or more connection regions may be any size and shape so that a first part and a second part are connected. The one or more connection region may be located anywhere along the length of the first part. Preferably, the one or more connection regions are located between two adjacent support regions. The one or more connection regions may form any ang!e with the support regions so that the connection region assists the support regions in supporting adjacent panels. The one or more connection regions and the one or more support regions may form any angle so that the support regions, the connection regions, or both extend into and/or through a gap between two adjacent paneis. The one or more connection regions and the one or more support regions may form an angie of about 30 degrees or more, about 45 degrees or more, about 60 degrees or more, or about 75 degrees or more. The one or more connection regions and the one or more support regions may form an angle of about 270 degrees or less, preferably about 235 degrees or less, more preferably about 205 degrees or less, or most preferably about 185 degrees or less. The one or more connection regions and the one or more support regions may form an angle from about 200 degrees to about 75 degrees and preferably from about 185 degrees to about 90 degrees. The connection region may extend through the gap when the device is in an installed position. The connection region may be located adjacent to the gap when the device is in the installed position. The connection region may include one or more connectors for attaching the first part to the second part. The connection region may include a torque transfer surface, an interlock, a threaded connector, a geared surface, or a combination thereof. [0024] The inieriock may be any feature that connects the first part and the second part and assists in reducing and/or substantially eliminating deflection. The interlock may be any size and shape so that the first part and the second part when connected are substantially' flush with each other. The interlock may be any feature that may form a mechanica! connection between the first part and the second part. The interlock may be any feature that surrounds or is surrounded by an opposing part so that the first part and the second part are connected. The interlock may form a movable connection, a fixed connection, a rotatab!e connection, an adjustable connection, or a combination thereof between the first part and the second part. The interlock may be a hole, a groove, a series of apertures, a cut, an absence of material, or a combination thereof that accepts an adjoining component so that a connection between the first part and the second part are formed. The interlock may allow the first part, the second part, or both to twist relative to each other, a panel, or both so that the first part and the second part may be connected and the device may assist in preventing and/or eliminating deflection. The Interlock may include a twist so that the interlock may easily connect a first part to the second part. The twist may allow one part of the interlock to extend over and/or under the corresponding portion of the interlock on the opposing part so that the parts lock together. Each portion of the interlock may twist by about 1 degree or more, about 3 degrees or more, or about 5 degrees or more from the connection region plane. Only the interlock may be twisted and the torque transfer surface may be free of twist. Each portion of the inieriock may twist by about 10 degrees or less, about 7 degrees or less, or about 6 degrees or less. Each portion may twist by more than 0 degrees, about 1 degree or more, about 2 degrees or more, or about 3 degrees or more.

[00251 Th twist may be a first side of the interlock being offset from the second side of the interlock. The twist may be a top interlock part and/or a bottom interlock part extending so that the top inieriock part and the bottom interlock part are not located in the same plane. The twist may be an shift "out of plane ^' ' so that the first part may easily be connected with the second part via the interlock. For example, a shift out of plane may be one or both sides of the interlock extending above and/or below a plane defined by the connection region, thus, when viewing the interlock and connection region piane, at a side view, one portion of the interlock may extend above the plane and another portion may extend beiow the plane so that the interlock is "twisted," The top interlock part, the bottom interlock part, the torque transfer surface, or a combination thereof may be in the connection region plane or twisted out of the connection region plane.

[0026] The torque transfer surface may be an surface that extends into the interlock, surrounds the inieriock, is proximate to the interlock, or a combination thereof. For example, the torque transfer surface may be substantially surrounded by the interlock so that the Interlock contacts the torque transfer surface during movement and the torque transfer surface prevents further movement of the interlock. The torque transfer surface may be any part that contacts a to interlock part, a bottom interlock part, or both so that the device prevents .deflection. The torque transfer surface may be configured so that when in communication with the interlock the first part and second part have flush edges. The torque transfer surface may be any portion of the device that is located between the two adjacent panels (e.g., in the gap). The torque transfe surface may be substantially planar. Preferably, the torque transfer surface is in the connection region plane and the top interlock part, the bottom inter!ock part, or both extend out of plane towards the torque transfer surface so that, when connected, the device assists in resisting deflection. The first part, the second part, or bot may include a torque transfer surface. Preferably, both the first part and the second part have a torque transfer surface. The torque transfer surface of the first part, the second part, or both may be substantially parallel, may be angfed towards each other, may be angled away from each other, or both when the first part and the second part are connected. The torque transfer surface of the first part and the second part when connected may be substantially coplanar when viewed from a side view so that the torque transfer surface resists movement of the two adjacent panels, resist movement relative to each other, have litt!e movement before the two torque transfer surfaces contact, or a combination thereof. The first part, the second part or both may be free of a torque transfer surface.

[00271 The first part, the second part, or both may be connected using any device that secures the first part to the second part so that the first part, the second part or both substantially reduce and/or prevent deflection of the edges of two adjacent panels. The first part, the second part, or both may be insertabie and/or extendable through a gap between two adjacent panels. The first part, the second part, or both may consist of two or more parts connected together so that at !easf one part extends through the gap between two adjacent panels and connects the first part to the second part. The second part may have two pieces.

[00283 The second part may be any size and shape so that all or a portion of the second part extends into a gap between two adjacent panels. The second part may be identical to a first part and the discussion herein regarding the first part is incorporated by reference herein with regard to the second part. The second part may be partially andior fully insertabie into a gap. The second part may partiai!y and/or fully extendable into a gap. The second part may include a portion that remains in the gap when the device is assembled and in a deployed position. The second part may be configured so that the device is either capable of being inserted fully through the gap or capable of preventing insertion and/or removal through the gap. Preferably, the second part includes a portion thai Is configured so that the device is prevented from being inserted into and/or extending into virtually any gap. The second part may include a portion that is substantially fiat so that the second part can fit through virtually any gap, between virtually any two adjacent panels, or both. The second part may include a support piece and a connection shaft.

[0029| The support piece may be any part that resides substantially above and/or substantially below two adjacent panels and substantially prevents the device from being moved through a gap, substantially prevents the edges of the two adjacent panels from deflecting, attaching the first piece to the second piece, or a combination thereof. The support piece may be any size and shape so that the support piece substantiall prevents deflection of two adjacent panels, the support piece supports the device, the support piece connects to the connection shaft, the support piece prevents the device from being moved through a gap, or a combination thereof. The support piece may be square, round, rectangular, diamond, "x" shaped, or a combination thereof. The support piece may include a through hole for a connection shaft to pass through and/or attach to so that the support piece and the connection shaft are connected. The support piece includes one or more support regions and one or more connection regions,

[00301 The support regions may he located anywhere along the support piece, the first part, the second part, or a combination thereof. The support regions as discussed herein may be an part of the support piece, the first part, the second part, or a combination thereof where the support piece contacts one or more adjacent panels. The support regions may be any region that prevents the support piece, the first part, the second part, or a combination thereof from passing through the gap when the device is attached. The support region may be any region thai contacts two adjacent panels and assists in preventing the panels from deflecting. The support region may have a sufficient size and shape so that the device is prevented from moving through a gap and so that the device assists in substantially reducing and/or eliminating deflection of the edges of two adjacent panels. The support region may be substantially circular, oval, square, rectangular, elongated, symmetrically shaped, asymmetrically shaped, or a combination thereof and may contact two adjacent panels simultaneously. The support region may he located proximate to a connection region. Preferably, a connection region is located between two or more support regions or is substantially surrounded by a support region. The support region may be toroidal!y shaped with the connection region in the center.

[00313 The connection region may be located anywhere along the support piece, the first part, the second part, or a combination thereof. The connection region may be any part of the device where the first part and the second part connect together. The connection region of the support piec may be an absence of materia! (e.g., a through hole). The connection region may be any size and shape so that the connection region may support a connection between the first part and the second part and so that the device substantially prevents and/or eliminates deflection of two adjacent panels. The connection region may be located within the same p!ane as the support region. The connection region may be located above or below the support region. The connection region may have any configuration that corresponds with a connection shaft so that the support piece and the connection shaft may be connected together. For example, the connection shaft may be a threaded male connection and the support piece may be a threaded female connection or the connection shaft may have an expanded end and the support piece may have a through hole that is larger than the body of the connection shaft and smaller than the end of the connection shaft.

[00321 The support piece and the connection shaft may rotatabiy connect. For example, the support piece, the connection shaft, or both may rotate while the support piece and the connection shaft are connected. The support piece may be any piece that has sufficient size and strength so that the support piece supports the connection shaft, resists deflection of two adjacent panels, prevents the device from moving through the gap, or a combination thereof,

[0033J T e connection shaft may be any device that connects the first piece to the second piece. The connection shaft and the support piece may be one integral part. Preferably, the connection shaft and the support piece are two discrete parts. The connection shaft may be any size and shape so that the connection device connects to the first part and the second part and at least a portion of the connection shaft extends through a gap between two adjacent panels. The connection shaft may attach to the first part, the second part, or both, using the same connection device, different connection devices, or a combination of devices. The connection shaft may include any attachment device so that the connection shaft is rotatabiy attached, fixedly attached, removably attached, permanently attached, or a combination thereof to the first part, the second part, or both. The connection shaft may be threaded, have a large end portion and smaller body portion, be expandable, be corttractibSe, include a spring loaded feature, a mushroom feature, one or more ribs for a feature of the first part, the second part, or both to grip, or a combination thereof. The connectio shaft may be any shape and size so that the connection shaft may pass through a gap between two adjacent panels. The connection shaft may be round, ovai, square, fiat, o a combination thereof. The shape of the connection shaft may vary from a first end proximate to a first part to a second end proximate to a second part.

[00341 The first part, the second part, or both may be made of any materia! that assists in preventing deflection, substantially prevents deflection, eliminates deflection, or a combination thereof between two adjacent panels. The first part, the second part, or both may be made of the same material, a different material, or a combination of materials. The first part, the second part, or both may be made of any materia! that is plastically deformabie, eiasticaliy deformab!e, has a high bending strength, a high compressive strength, or a combination thereof. The first part, the second part, or both may be made of a natural materia!, a synthetic material, a plastic material, a metallic material, a composite material, or a combination thereof. Preferably, the first part, the second part, or both are made of a materia! that is resistant to corrosion, structural failure, fatigue, or a combination thereof, Most preferably, the first part, the second part, or both are made of galvanized steel. The first part, the second part, or both may be made of any materia! that may fit between two adjacent panel, connect two adjacent panels, prevent deflection of two adjacent panels, or a combination thereof.

[00351 The panels may be any part of a structure. Preferably, panels as discussed herein may b part of a roof. The panels may be any panel that may be used with so!ar modules. The paneis may be any panel that may have sufficient strength to support the mass of a solar module, solar module components, solar module connectors, integrated flashing pieces, any component of a solar module, the like, or a combination thereof. The panels may be any size and shape so that the panels when placed proximate to each other form one contiguous surface. The paneis may be made of made of any materia! that may support one or more so!ar module, solar module components, solar module connectors, integrated flashing pieces, any component of a solar module, the like, or a combination thereof. The paneis may be made of wood, plywood, structural plywood, decorative plywood, overlaid piywood, commercial plywood, utility plywood, marine plywood, medium density fiberboard ( DF), oriented strand board (OSS), Sunde!a, hardboard, insulation board, the like, or a combination thereof.

[00361 The device may be used in a method discussed herein. The method may include one or more of the steps listed herein performed in virtually any order. The method includes obtaining a first part and a second part. The first part may be secured to the second part. The first part ma be placed proximate to a gap. The first part may be inserted into the gap. The first part may be inserted through the gap so that the first part is completely located below the two adjacent panels. The first part may be inserted into the gap so that part of the first part is located above the paneis, part of the first part is located below the panels, and part of the first part is located between the panels. The second part may be inserted into the gap so that part of the second part remains in the ga and part of the second part remains above the two adjacent panels. The second part may be inserted into the gap so that part of the second part is located above the panels, part of the second part is located below the paneis, and part of the second part is located between the panels. The first part, the second part, or both may be rotated so that the first part forms an angle with the gap. Preferably, the first part is rotated so that the first part forms an angle with the gap from about 15 degrees to about 185 degrees, and preferably substantially a right angle. The first part, the second part or both may be rotated so that the support regions of the first part, the second part, or both are rotated towards the panels. For example, during the step of inserting the first part, the second part, or both may be vertically oriented with regard to the panels and as the first part, the second part, or both extend through and/or are inserted into the gap the first part, the second part or both ma be rotated towards the panels. The first part, the second part, or both may be rotated so that the support regions are in a working position (e.g., substantially parallel to the panels, angled towards the paneis, angled away from the panels, or a position therebetween). The first part, the second part, or both may be pulled up so that the first part contacts one or both of the two adjacent panels. The first part, the second part, or both may be pulled up so that one or both grippers are embedded into one or both of the two adjacent paneis. The first part, the second part, or both may be rotated so that the distance between the first part and the support piece is reduced so that both the first part and the support piece simultaneously contact the two adjacent panels. The first part and the support piece may be maintained static and the connection shaft may rotate so that the distance between the first part and the support piece is reduced so that both the first part and the support piece simultaneously contact the two adjacent panels. The first part, the second part, or both may be moved iateraify along the length of the gap towards each other. The first part, the second part, or both may be moved sequentially and/or simultaneously into contact so that the first part and the second part are fixedly connected via an interlock. During the step of connecting the first part and the second part may be rotated so that the interlocks, the torque transfer surfaces, the top interlock part, the bottom interlock part, or a combination thereof align. The first part, the second part, or both may be twisted during the step of connecting so that the top interlock part may go over and/or under the bottom interlock part of the respective opposing first part o second part so that a connection may be formed. The first part, the second part, or both may be installed between existing panels, mounted panels, static panels, immobilized panels, or a combination thereof. The method may be free of one or mor and preferably ail of the following steps: removing nails, removing screws, unattaching ail or a portion of one or more paneis, prying up a pane! to increase the size of the gap, pounding the device into a gap, or a combination thereof . The method may include attaching one or more solar modules, one or more so!ar modular connectors, on or more integrated flashing pieces, or a combination thereof to the paneis so that a partial and/or full soiar array is created.

[00371 Figure 1 illustrates an exploded view of one embodiment of the teachings herein. The device 2 includes a first part 10 and a second part 50. The first part 10 has a connection region 12 located between two support regions 14, The two support regions 14 prevent the device 2 from moving in the direction indicated by arrow 18 by contacting two adjacent panels 90 (not shown). Each support region 14 includes a gripper 18 for preventing movement of the device 2 when in a deployed state. The second part has a connection region 52 located between two support regions 54. The second part 50 has a connection shaft SO and a support piece 56. The support piece 56 prevents the device 2 from moving in a direction indicated by arrow 58 by contacting two adjacent paneis 90 (not shown),

[00383 Figure 2 illustrates a perspective view of an assembled device 4. As illustrated the first part 10 and the second part 50 are connected via the connection shaft 60. When assembled, connection regions 12 and 52 are aligned and the support regions 14 and 54 are aligned so that two adjacent paneis 90 {not shown) are supported therebetween.

[0039J Figures 3A-3C illustrate a sequence of inserting the device 2 into a gap 92 between two adjacent paneis 90. As is illustrated in Figures 3A-3C the panels 90 and the gap are not to scale and are shown for illustrative purposes oniy.

[0040] Figure 3A shows the first part 10 extending into the gap 92 between the two adjacent panels 90 in the direction 94.

[00413 Figure 3B illustrates the device 2 fully inserted into the gap 92 so that the second part 50 contacts the two adjacent paneis 90. The device when fully inserted in the gap 92 is rotated in the direction 96 so that the first part 10 is substantially perpendicular to the gap 92.

[00423 Figure 3C illustrates a side view of the device 2 with the first part 10 perpendicular to the gap 92 between the two adjacent panels 90. The first part 1 includes grippers 16 that are moved In the direction 98 so that the grippers 16 contact the two adjacent panels 90 so that further movement is prevented. The grippers 16 prevent rotation of the device so that the gap 100 may be reduced and the two adjacent paneis 90 are held between the first part 10 and the second part 50 so that the device 2 prevents independent movement of the two adjacent paneis 90,

[0043J Figure 3C further illustrates the interrelationship between the device 2 and the two adjacent panels 90 during an increase in force. As a force (F) is placed on one of the two adjacent panels 90 the panel begins to deflect. As the pane! begins to deflect due to force (F) the device 2 creates a reactionar force (RF) that opposes the deflection by the force |F) . The reactionary force (RF) Is created by the device 2 creating a device force {DF) on the second of the two adjacent paneis 90 so thai the second panel provides support and assists in creating the reactionary force { F) on the first panel through the device 2.

[00443 Figure 4 illustrates a top view of the device 2. The device includes a first piece 10 that extends beyond a second piece 50. The second piece 50 includes a connection shaft 60 that is movable so that the distance 100 (now shown) between the first piece 10 and the second piece 50 may be reduced.

[00453 Figures 5A-5F illustrate a sequence of inserting the device 2 into a gap 92, As illustrated in figures 5A-5F the panels 90 and gap 94 are not to scale and are shown for illustrative purposes only, normally the panels 90 w be located closer together as is illustrated in figures 5E and 5R.

[0046J Figure 5A ii!ustrates a first part 10 and a second part 50 oriented relative to each other before being inserted into a gap.

[00473 Figure 5B illustrates the first part 10 being inserted into the gap 92 between the two adjacent panels 90. Optionally, as illustrated a force may be applied to one of the panels 90 during insertion to assist the first part 10 into the gap 92. The first part 10 extends through the ga 92 in the direction 94 and then rotated in the direction 96 so that a support region 14 is located above one of the two adjacent panels 90 and another support region 14 is located below one of the two adjacent panels 90,

[0048] Figure 5C illustrates the first part 10 in an installed position before the first part 10 is connected to a second part (not shown). The first part 10 is extended through the gap 92 between the two adjacent panels 90. The twist of the first part 10 is shown with the top interlock part 22 and the bottom interlock part 124 oriented away from each other. The support regions 14 on each side of the connection region 14 are in contact with one of the two adjacent panels 90 so that when fully installed the device will assist in minimizing deflection between the two adjacent panels.

[00493 Figure 50 illustrates the second part 50 being inserted into the gap 92 between the two adjacent panels 90. Optionally, a force may be applied to one of the two adjacent panels 90 increasing the size of the gap 92 so that the second part 50 may be more easily installed. The second part 50 extends through the gap 92 in the direction 94 and is rotated in the direction 98 so that a support region 14 is located above one of the two adjacent panels 90 and another support region 14 is located below one of the two adjacent panels 90. The first part 10 and the second part 50 are arranged so that a first part is above one panel 90 and the second part 50 is below the same panel 90 and vice versa.

j¾050| Figure 5E illustrates a top view of the first part 10 and th second part 50 installed in the gap 92 between the two adjacent panels 90 as is illustrated in Figures 5B-5D. To complete the installation, the first part 10 is moved in the direction 102 and/or the second part 50 is moved in a second direction 104 so that the first part 10 and the second part 50 interlock.

[00513 Figure 5F Illustrates a top view of an assembled device 4. The assembled device 4 has the first part 10 and the second part 50 interlocked in the gap 92 between the two adjacent panels 90 so that the edges of the two adjacent panels 90 are held in place and deflection of the panels is minimized.

[OOS23 Figure 5G illustrates a cross-sectional view of the assembled device 4 of Figure 5F. As illustrated, in Figures 5E and 5F the first part 10 moves in the direction 102 towards the second part 50 and/or the second part 50 moves in the direction 104 towards the first part 10 along the gap 92 unit! the first part 10 and the second part 50 connect. The device 2 holds the ends of the two adjacent pane!s 90 so that any force applied on the ends of the two adjacent panels pushes the torque transfer surfaces 20 and 62 together so that movement of the ends of the two adjacent panels 90 relative to each other is limited,

[00533 Figure 6 illustrates a first part 10 and/or a second part 50. The first part 10 and/or the second part 50 includes a connection region 12, 52 and two support regions 14, 54. The connection region 12, 52 and support regions 14, 54 form an angle {«}, The connection region 12, 52 includes a torque transfer surface 20, 62 for contacting an opposing torque transfer surface 20, 62 respectively so that movement of the device and ends of panels (not shown) are minimized. The connection region 12, 52 includes an interlock 22, 64 for attaching to a corresponding interlock 22, 64 of an adjoining first part 10 or second part 50.

[0054] Figure 7 illustrates a side view of the connection regions 12, 52 of Figure 5G, and the torque transfer surfaces 20 and 62 of the first part 10 and the second part 50 respectively. The torque transfer surfaces 20 and 62 are twisted and form an angle (jJ) when the device 2 is assembled,

[0055J Figure 8 illustrates the device 2 of Figure 6 illustrated from a top view. As illustrated the twist of the connection region 12, 52 is visible. The connection region 12, 52 is located between the support regions 14, 54. The connection region 12, 52 has a connection region plane 120, and the top interlock part 122 and the bottom interlock part 124 extend out of the connection region piane 120 by an angie (Θ) so that the top interlock part 122 and the bottom interlock part 124 assist in connecting during attachment of a first part to a second part. During connection of the first part {not shown) to the second part (not shown), the top interlock part 122 and the bottom interlock part 124 will cause the support regions 14, 54 to twist towards a panel 90 as is illustrated in Figure 7 so that the panels 90 are gripped between the support regions 14, 54 of the first part and the second part.

[0056} Figure 9 illustrates a cross section of an assembled device 4 installed between two adjacent paneis 90. The first part 10 and the second part 50 are connected together so that when a force (F) acts on the first part 10 some force is transferred to the second part 50 and vice versa. As illustrated a force (F) is being applied to the second part SO. As the second part 50 begins to deflect the first part 10 creates a reactionary force (RF) opposing the deflection. As the first part 10 begins to deflect the first part's torque transfer surface 20 and the second part's torque transfer surface 62 contact each other so that a torque transfer force (TTF) is created that substantially prevents movement of the first part 10. The force {F) moves the second part 50 up so that a device force DF) is applied to the second panel, and the panel applies a second reactionary forc fRF2) so that movement of the device and the first panel independent of the second pane! is substantially prevented. [00573 Figure 10 illustrates a roof 200 with half of the solar modules 202 cut away so that the panels 90 and devices 2 are exposed that are beSow the solar modules 202. As illustrated, two devices 2 are installed in gaps 92 between the two adjacent panels 90. illustrating two devices 2 are merely intended to illustrate the device 2 installed and are not intended to limit the use of the device 2, More or less devices may be used as needed. Half of the roof 200 includes solar modules 202, solar module connectors 204, and integrated flashing pieces 208 installed over a roof 200 where the panels 90 include the devices 2 taught herein,

[00S8J Any numerical values recited herein include ail values from the lower value to the upper value in increments of one unit provided that there is a separation of at least 2 units between any Sower value and any higher value. As an example, if it is stated that the amount of a component or a value of a process variable such as, for example, temperature, pressure, time and the like is, for example, from 1 to 90, preferably from 20 to 80, more preferably from 30 to 70, it is intended that values such as 15 to 85, 22 to 68, 43 to 51 , 30 to 32 etc. are expressly enumerated in this specification. For values which are less than one, one unit is considered to be 0.0001 , 0.001 , 0.01 or 0,1 as appropriate. These are only examples of what is specifically intended and all possible combinations of numerical values between the lowest vaiue and the highest value enumerated are to be considered to be expressly stated in this application in a similar manner,

[00591 Unless otherwise stated, all ranges include both endpoints and ail numbers between the endpoints. The use of "about" or "approximately" in connection with a range applies to both ends of the range. Thus, "about 20 to 30" is intended to cover "about 20 to about 30", inclusive of at least the specified endpoints,

[0060] The disclosures of all articles and references, including patent applications and publications, are incorporated by reference for all purposes. The term "consisting essentially of to describe a combination shall include the elements, ingredients, components or steps identified, and such other elements ingredients, components or steps that do not materially affect the basic and novel characteristics of the combination. The use of the terms "comprising" or "including" to describe combinations of elements, ingredients, components or steps herein also contemplates embodiments that consist essentially of the elements, ingredients, components or steps. By use of the term "may" herein, it is intended that any described attributes that "may" be included are optional,

[00611 Plural elements, ingredients, components or steps can be provided by a single integrated element, ingredient, component or step. Alternatively, a single integrated element, ingredient, component or step might be divided into separate plural elements, ingredients, components or steps. The disclosure of "a" or "one" to describe an element, ingredient, component or step is not intended to foreclose additional elements, ingredients, components or steps.

[0082J !t is understood that the above description is intended to be illustrative and not restrictive, Many embodiments as wel as many applications besides the examples provided vvi be apparent to those of skili in the art upon reading the above description. The scope of the teachings should, therefore, be determined not with reference to the above description, but should instead be determined with reference to the appended claims, along with the ful! scope of equivalents to which such claims are entitled. The disclosures of a!! articles and references, inc!uding patent appitcations and publications, are incorporated by reference for all purposes. The omission in the following claims of any aspect of subject matter that is disclosed herein is not a disdatmer of such subject matter, nor should it be regarded that the inventors did not consider such subject matter to be part of the disclosed inventive subject matter.