Integrated solar cell panel for building

Abstract

A plurality of integrated solar panels for a building wherein the plurality of integrated solar panels are configured to generate electricity and / or heat from solar radiation wherein the plurality of integrated solar panels comprise a plurality of solar energy collecting portions and a plurality of non-collecting portions, wherein the plurality of non-collecting portions are configured to reflect and / or concentrate solar energy onto the plurality of collecting portions.

Description

[0001] Related applications

[0002] This application claims priority to U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 63 / 536,936, filed September 7, 2023, and U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 63 / 443,405, filed February 5, 2022, pursuant to 35 USC §119(e), the entire contents of which are incorporated herein by reference.

[0003] Technical Field and Background Technology

[0004] In some embodiments of the present invention, the invention relates to an integrated solar energy generation system, and more specifically, but not exclusively, to the collection of solar energy from building panels.

[0005] Solar energy is considered a potential source of clean and renewable energy. It can be utilized through the use of solar panels. More and more people are installing solar panels on their buildings to take advantage of this renewable resource to reduce electricity bills, reduce fossil fuel consumption, and / or earn rewards by feeding excess electricity into the grid. Typically, these solar panels are placed on the roofs of buildings. However, adding solar panels to buildings, whether existing or under construction, is expensive. Currently, the majority of the cost of a solar power system is the construction cost.

[0006] U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 20220360211 discloses "a system having one or more solar modules, including a plurality of solar cells, each solar module having a plurality of corrugations defined by alternating plurality of elongated top channels and a plurality of elongated bottom channels extending between opposite ends along a plurality of first parallel axes, the plurality of elongated bottom channels being defined by a first pair of sidewalls extending from a respective cover, and the plurality of elongated top channels being defined by a plurality of second sidewalls extending from their respective bases."

[0007] Japanese Patent Application Publication No. 2011174361 discloses "a solar panel module, a method for manufacturing the same, an insulated roof structure and a roof structure each in which the module is disposed, and a power generation system using the module. The solar panel module includes: a corrugated or concave steel plate that functions as a building roofing material; a solar panel that functions as a power generation device for generating electricity from sunlight; and a protective plate for protecting the solar panel. The solar panel is disposed on the steel plate, and the protective plate is bonded to the solar panel, such that the solar panel is sandwiched between the steel plate and the protective plate."

[0008] Chinese Patent Application Publication No. CN104047402B appears to disclose "a corrugated solar awning with high light energy utilization. The corrugated solar awning includes a load-bearing frame and several solar panels arranged in an array on the top surface of the load-bearing frame. The key feature is that the angle between the top surface of the load-bearing frame and the horizontal plane is 15-45 degrees; the angle between each solar panel and the top surface of the load-bearing frame is 10-15 degrees; and each group of solar panels consists of 3-6 solar panels connected in series. According to the corrugated solar awning with high light energy utilization, the irradiation area of ​​the solar panels can be effectively increased on a limited awning plane, improving the utilization rate of solar energy. The corrugated solar awning has a simple structure, is easy to implement, and is convenient for widespread application in civil buildings."

[0009] Further technologies include U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 20050284515, Japanese Patent Application Publication No. 2002004527, Japanese Patent Application Publication No. 2006270006, Korean Patent Application Publication No. 101543346, Korean Patent Application Publication No. 200459677, Korean Patent Application Publication No. 101945916, International Patent Application Publication No. 2018041209, International Patent Application Publication No. 2021012003, U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 20180323327, and U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 20130111810.

[0010] Therefore, there is a need for solar panels that can be integrated with building materials, providing solar energy with the same or higher efficiency as traditional solar panels. Furthermore, there is a need for solar panels that can adapt to various conditions and achieve high solar energy conversion even in areas of the building that do not receive direct sunlight or are not located in traditional positions. Summary of the Invention

[0011] In some embodiments, the present invention relates to an integrated solar energy generation system, and more specifically, but not exclusively, to a solar corrugated siding panel with a reflector.

[0012] According to one aspect of some embodiments of the present invention, a building panel is provided, comprising: a corrugated metal base having a plurality of crests and a plurality of troughs; and a plurality of first solar collectors located on a plurality of alternating flutes of the base.

[0013] According to some embodiments of the present invention, the plurality of alternating grooves are a plurality of offset parallel surfaces.

[0014] According to some embodiments of the present invention, the metal is at least one of aluminum and steel.

[0015] According to some embodiments of the present invention, a plurality of intervening flutes between the plurality of alternating flutes are colored with a light color.

[0016] According to some embodiments of the invention, the alternating grooves are at least partially ground-facing upwards, the plurality of intermediate grooves are at least partially ground-facing downwards, and the plurality of intermediate grooves point to a steep angle.

[0017] According to some embodiments of the present invention, the plurality of alternating grooves are at least partially oriented toward the sun, the plurality of intermediate grooves are at least partially oriented away from the sun, and the plurality of intermediate grooves point toward the sun at a shallow angle.

[0018] According to some embodiments of the present invention, the light color is white.

[0019] According to some embodiments of the present invention, the building includes a plurality of second solar collectors and separate wiring for the plurality of first solar collectors and the plurality of second solar collectors, the separate wiring being configured to harvest electrical energy from the first set of solar collectors independently of harvesting energy from the second plurality of solar collectors.

[0020] According to some embodiments of the present invention, the plurality of second solar collectors are located on a plurality of flutes located between the plurality of alternating flutes.

[0021] According to one aspect of some embodiments of the present invention, an integrated solar panel is provided, comprising: a plurality of solar energy collecting portions; and a plurality of non-collecting portions, wherein the plurality of non-collecting portions are reflective; and the plurality of collecting portions and the plurality of non-collecting portions are adjacent to each other.

[0022] According to some embodiments of the present invention, the plurality of non-collecting portions are configured to reflect solar radiation onto the plurality of collecting portions.

[0023] According to some embodiments of the present invention, the plurality of non-collecting portions are configured to concentrate solar radiation onto the plurality of collecting portions.

[0024] According to some embodiments of the present invention, the integrated solar panel is configured to bear weight.

[0025] According to some embodiments of the present invention, the integrated solar panel is configured to be non-load-bearing.

[0026] According to some embodiments of the present invention, the angle of the plurality of collecting portions relative to the plurality of non-collecting portions is adjustable.

[0027] According to some embodiments of the present invention, the angle of the plurality of collecting portions relative to the plurality of non-collecting portions is adjustable.

[0028] According to some embodiments of the present invention, the integrated solar panel further includes a connection to an energy management system.

[0029] According to some embodiments of the present invention, the integrated solar panel is corrugated.

[0030] According to some embodiments of the present invention, the integrated solar panel is prefabricated.

[0031] According to some embodiments of the present invention, the integrated board is lightweight.

[0032] According to one aspect of some embodiments of the present invention, a method for using a plurality of integrated solar panels is provided, the method comprising the steps of: positioning the plurality of integrated solar panels on a frame or a surface, wherein the plurality of integrated solar panels includes: a plurality of solar energy collecting portions; and a plurality of non-collecting portions, wherein the plurality of non-collecting portions are reflective; and the plurality of collecting portions and the plurality of non-collecting portions are adjacent to each other; fixing the plurality of integrated solar panels to the frame or the surface; adjusting an angle of the plurality of integrated solar panels, thereby configuring the plurality of non-collecting portions to reflect and / or concentrate solar radiation onto the plurality of collecting portions; converting the solar radiation into electricity and / or heat; and transmitting the electricity and / or heat to an energy management system connected to the plurality of integrated solar panels.

[0033] According to some embodiments of the present invention, the method further includes adjusting the angle of the plurality of integrated solar panels to adapt to local conditions.

[0034] According to some embodiments of the present invention, the method further includes adjusting the angle of the plurality of collecting portions relative to the plurality of non-collecting portions to adapt to local conditions.

[0035] According to some embodiments of the present invention, the solar radiation is high-intensity solar radiation, low-intensity solar radiation, direct solar radiation, indirect solar radiation, diffuse solar radiation, thermal radiation, ultraviolet radiation, and any combination thereof.

[0036] According to some embodiments of the present invention, the frame or the surface is vertical, horizontal, or inclined at an angle between vertical and horizontal.

[0037] According to some embodiments of the present invention, the method further includes using the plurality of integrated solar panels to at least partially construct a structure.

[0038] According to some embodiments of the present invention, the plurality of integrated solar panels are easy to install. Attached Figure Description

[0039] This document describes some embodiments of the invention by way of example only, with reference to the accompanying drawings. Referring now to the drawings in detail, it should be emphasized that the details shown are illustrative and used for the purpose of illustrating embodiments of the invention. In this regard, the description using the drawings will enable those skilled in the art to clearly understand how to practice embodiments of the invention.

[0040] In the diagram:

[0041] Figure 1 : A schematic diagram illustrating the use of an integrated solar panel according to some embodiments of the present invention;

[0042] Figures 2A to 2H : A schematic diagram showing an exemplary location of an integrated solar panel according to some embodiments of the present invention;

[0043] Figures 3A to 3C : A schematic diagram of an exemplary integrated solar panel according to some embodiments of the present invention;

[0044] Figures 4A to 4G Schematic diagrams of various contours of solar corrugated plates according to multiple embodiments of the present invention:

[0045] Figures 5A to 5B : A schematic diagram illustrating an exemplary use of an integrated solar panel according to some embodiments of the present invention;

[0046] Figures 6A to 6B : A schematic diagram illustrating an exemplary use of an integrated solar panel according to some embodiments of the present invention;

[0047] Figures 7A to 7B Exemplary photographs of the use of integrated solar panels according to some embodiments of the present invention;

[0048] Figure 8Schematic diagram of the use of an integrated solar panel according to some embodiments of the present invention;

[0049] Figure 9 A schematic diagram illustrating the use of an integrated solar panel according to an embodiment of the present invention:

[0050] Figure 10 A schematic diagram illustrating the use of an integrated solar panel according to an embodiment of the present invention;

[0051] Figure 11 : A block diagram showing an integrated solar panel according to some embodiments of the present invention;

[0052] Figure 12 A flowchart illustrating the use of an integrated solar panel according to certain embodiments of the present invention is shown;

[0053] Figure 13 Block diagram of a system according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0054] Figure 14 A flowchart of the system operation method according to an embodiment of the present invention; and Detailed Implementation

[0055] In some embodiments, the present invention relates to an integrated solar energy generation system, and more specifically, but not exclusively, to a solar corrugated siding panel with a reflector.

[0056] Overview

[0057] Some embodiments of the present invention relate to integrated solar panels. According to some embodiments, integrated solar panels can be used to generate solar energy. According to some embodiments, integrated solar panels can collect direct and / or indirect solar radiation. According to some embodiments, integrated solar panels can be used as building materials, such as precast panels, bricks, blocks, columns, cladding, wall panels, skylights, windows, roofs, etc. According to some embodiments, integrated solar panels can be used as integrated components of building materials, for example, incorporated into precast panels, bricks, blocks, columns, cladding, wall panels, skylights, windows, roofs, etc. Optionally, integrated solar panels can have the form of conventional building panels and / or be installed like conventional panels. Optionally, integrated solar panels can include an insulation layer. According to some embodiments, integrated solar panels can be fixed to building materials and / or building components. In some embodiments, integrated solar panels can be used on existing structures for renovation and / or replacement of existing panels.

[0058] According to some embodiments, the integrated solar panel may be a corrugated building panel. For example, the base of the panel may be a corrugated base panel. Optionally, solar collectors are located on alternating grooves on the outer side of the panel (e.g., on the sun-facing grooves) and / or on the outer peaks of the panel. Optionally, the intermediate grooves between collectors may be reflective. Alternatively or additionally, alternating grooves that are expected to be continuously exposed to direct sunlight (e.g., on the sun-facing grooves) may be consistently coated with solar collectors, while sections that are expected to be shaded for a large portion of the time (e.g., near the valleys of the corrugated structure) may not have solar collectors. Optionally, areas without collectors are coated with a reflective coating (e.g., white paint). Optionally, solar collectors near areas receiving more sunlight and / or less shade (e.g., on the sun-facing grooves and / or near the peaks of the corrugated structure) are wired separately from solar collectors in areas that are frequently shaded (e.g., on grooves not facing the main sun direction and / or near the valleys of the corrugated structure).

[0059] According to some embodiments, advantageously, by integrating solar collectors into building components, the cost of constructing and / or installing solar panels on a building can be similar to the cost of constructing the same building using conventional materials. Advantageously, by integrating solar collectors into building components, it is not necessary to attach solar panels to existing building components. Optionally, this reduces the construction cost and / or weight of building components (e.g., roofs, etc.). According to some embodiments, integrated solar panels can be similar to existing building components, such as roof panels, wall panels, etc.

[0060] According to some embodiments, an integrated solar panel may include an integrated solar energy collection portion (solar module). According to some embodiments, an integrated solar panel may include a non-collection portion. According to some embodiments, an integrated solar panel may include both a solar energy collection portion and a non-collection portion. According to some embodiments, the non-collection portion may be reflective. Alternatively, the non-collection portion may reflect sunlight onto the solar energy collection portion.

[0061] According to some embodiments, integrated solar panels can be flat, such as roofs, building wall panels, including panels for large buildings, warehouses and / or office buildings and / or high-rise buildings and / or wall panels for temporary buildings such as animal fences, sheds, trailers, food trucks, market stalls, etc.

[0062] Alternatively, and / or additionally, according to some embodiments, the integrated solar panel may be corrugated, such as a roof panel, wall panel, etc. According to some embodiments, in a corrugated integrated solar panel, the angle of the corrugated structure can be adjusted to improve solar energy collection efficiency. According to some embodiments, the angle of the integrated solar panel and / or the angle of the corrugated structure can be adjusted to increase the total solar energy collection and / or power per surface area of ​​the solar collector. According to some embodiments, the integrated solar panel may be located on one or more sides of the corrugated structure oriented towards the sun. According to some embodiments, the integrated solar panel may cover the entire surface of the corrugated structure. Optionally, the integrated solar panel may include a non-collecting portion. Optionally, the non-collecting portion may be reflective. Optionally, the non-collecting portion may reflect direct and / or indirect sunlight onto the collecting portion of the integrated solar panel. Optionally, the non-collecting portion may concentrate and / or focus sunlight onto the collecting portion of the integrated solar panel.

[0063] In some embodiments, integrated solar building panels can be used in floating solar power plants. For example, the panels may be lighter and / or easier to install than conventional panels. Optionally, another advantage of floating panels on fishponds may include, in some embodiments, the integrated solar panels of the present invention can be placed on flat floats (e.g., panels with corrugated and / or non-flat surfaces, compared to conventional panels typically mounted on high floats to tilt the panels toward the sun). Alternatively or additionally, the integrated solar panels may include slanted surfaces, such as a corrugated structure with one side facing the sun, to facilitate efficient solar energy collection with collector panels, for example, when the panels are horizontally positioned and / or parallel to the free surface of the water. In some embodiments, the integrated solar panels themselves may be prefabricated. Optionally, prefabricated integrated solar panels can be added to and / or used in many possible applications, such as warehouse walls and roofs, as well as soundproofing walls, fences, rafts, boats, trailers, food trucks, sheds, houses, warehouses, skyscrapers, decorative elements, etc.

[0064] According to some embodiments, integrated solar panels can be used as wall panels and / or for prefabricated wall panel components, such as walls, roofs, etc., and / or can be connected to movable elements, such as awnings on warehouse walls and roofs, garage doors, retractable roofs, external blinds, curtains, etc., as well as soundproof walls, fences, etc.

[0065] According to some embodiments, wall panels and / or wall panel components can be attached to fixed objects, such as walls, roofs, etc., and / or can be connected to movable elements, such as awnings on warehouse walls and roofs, garage doors, retractable roofs, external blinds, curtains, etc., as well as soundproof walls, fences, etc.

[0066] According to some embodiments, integrated solar panel wall panels can be used easily. According to some embodiments, prefabricated panels may include integrated solar panels. According to some embodiments, integrated solar panels and / or prefabricated panels can be easily and / or readily assembled together to construct a structure. According to some embodiments, integrated solar panels and / or prefabricated panels can be used to easily construct various structures without requiring in-depth knowledge of photovoltaic systems and / or building structures. According to some embodiments, integrated solar panels can be "plug and play".

[0067] According to some embodiments, integrated solar panel wall panels can be used to construct temporary structures and / or low-investment and / or low-cost structures. Examples include barns, livestock pens, storage units, warehouses, kennels, chicken coops, guard posts, watchtowers, and simple sheds. According to some embodiments of the invention, the integrated solar panel exterior wall panels can be used in the construction of houses and / or high-rise buildings, for example, replacing awnings, eaves, cornices, pergolas, trellises, aluminum exterior wall panels, vinyl exterior wall panels, wood exterior wall panels, metal exterior wall panels, fiber cement exterior wall panels, brick exterior wall panels, etc.

[0068] Additionally, and / or alternatively, integrated solar panel wall panels can be used to build low-cost homes, for example, in underdeveloped areas where infrastructure and / or grid access may be lacking.

[0069] According to some embodiments, integrated solar panel wall panels can be self-contained. For example, an integrated solar panel may include one or more components that can store and / or utilize solar energy generated by the integrated solar panel. Suitable components that can store and / or utilize solar energy generated by the integrated solar panel may include rechargeable batteries, lighting fixtures, power outlets, stoves, heaters, fans, refrigerators, internet connections, radio transmitters, water pumps, water purifiers, air conditioners, mobile phone chargers, satellite phone chargers, and various industrial applications. According to some embodiments, integrated solar panel wall panels can be used to power one or more components without connecting the building to an external power source. According to some embodiments, integrated solar panel wall panels are connected to the power grid, for example, to sell and / or supply electricity to the grid.

[0070] In some embodiments, the present invention can be installed as a wall panel on a building wall. Optionally, the wall panel components can be used in areas of a building that are directly exposed to sunlight (e.g., north-facing walls in the Southern Hemisphere). According to some embodiments, the integrated solar panel can be placed on one or more surfaces that can face the sun, such as the unshaded portions of roofs, walls, building facades, columns, beams, windows, etc. According to some embodiments, the integrated solar panel can be placed on all surfaces to collect direct and indirect solar radiation. Optionally, the wall panel can be used in areas of a building that are not directly exposed to sunlight (e.g., north-facing walls in the Northern Hemisphere). Optionally, the wall panel can be adapted to local conditions; for example, the angle of the sides of the integrated solar panel and / or the angle of the corrugated structure with solar cells can be adjusted according to the solar zenith angle at each location to fit the wall.

[0071] In some embodiments, the collecting and non-collecting portions may be positioned horizontally on the integrated solar panel. In some embodiments, the collecting and non-collecting portions may be positioned diagonally on the integrated solar panel. In some embodiments, the collecting and non-collecting portions may be positioned vertically on the integrated solar panel. Optionally, the two portions may be located on opposite sides of the corrugated structure, for example, between the valleys and peaks.

[0072] According to some embodiments, the dimensions, depth, and angles (e.g., groove height and spacing) of the corrugated structure can be designed and / or adjusted so that the collection portions of the integrated solar panel do not obstruct each other; for example, the upward-facing side of the wall is not obstructed by the opposite side of the corrugated structure at the expected solar zenith angle.

[0073] According to some embodiments, integrated solar panels and / or portions thereof may be colored white and / or colors that enhance light reflection and / or refraction (e.g., inherent and / or painted, etc.). Additionally, or alternatively, reflective colors may help reduce the temperature of the panel. Optionally, coloring may also serve as corrosion protection. Alternatively, or additionally, non-collecting portions may be colored with decorative colors and / or decorative reflective colors (e.g., inherent and / or painted, etc.). Optionally, colors may be selected to preferentially reflect certain colors that are easily converted into electricity. Optionally, colors may be selected that have lower reflectivity and are less efficient at converting light into electricity.

[0074] According to some embodiments, the integrated solar panel may include any relevant technology, such as photovoltaic (e.g., crystalline photovoltaic cells, thin-film photovoltaic cells, etc.) and / or solar thermal technology (e.g., heating water). According to some embodiments, the integrated solar panel may be a prism-like block with solar cells on one or more surfaces.

[0075] According to some embodiments, the integrated solar panel may be solid and / or partially hollow and / or hollow. According to some embodiments, a hollow integrated solar panel may include a storage container. According to some embodiments, the storage container may contain a transparent liquid, such as one with a high optical refractive index (e.g., between 1.5 and 4.2), such as water, oil, etc. According to some embodiments, the liquid may provide a prism effect. According to some embodiments, the liquid may refract, reflect, and / or concentrate incident solar radiation. According to some embodiments, the liquid may cool the solar cell. According to some embodiments, the liquid (e.g., water) may be heated by incident solar radiation to provide heating and / or hot water to a structure (e.g., a building, house, etc.). According to some embodiments, water used for cooling the integrated solar panel may be utilized, for example, by using a concentrator, such as a heat pump.

[0076] As used herein, the term “solar panel” refers to a collection of solar (photovoltaic) cells that can be used to generate electricity through the photovoltaic effect.

[0077] According to some embodiments, direct sunlight from the sun can be directed and / or concentrated onto a solar cell to generate solar energy. According to some embodiments, indirect light from other directions (e.g., reflected from an object, refracted in the atmosphere, etc.) can be directed and / or concentrated onto a solar cell to generate solar energy.

[0078] According to some embodiments, the efficiency of integrated solar panels utilizing direct and / or indirect solar radiation can be at least 15%, at least 20%, at least 25%, at least 30%, at least 35%, at least 40%, at least 45%, and / or at least 50%. Each possibility is a separate embodiment.

[0079] According to some embodiments, integrated solar panels can be positioned such that the solar cells can collect direct and / or indirect sunlight. According to some embodiments, integrated solar panels are efficient at many solar angles without requiring adjustments to their angle and / or position to collect only direct sunlight, as is done with conventional solar panels. According to some embodiments, integrated solar panels can be configured to be mounted on panels at various angles to the sun.

[0080] According to some embodiments, integrated solar panels can be incorporated into buildings and / or structures that are traditionally considered useless for solar energy production.

[0081] According to some embodiments, integrated solar panels can have high tensile strength. According to some embodiments, integrated solar panels can be load-bearing and / or non-load-bearing. According to some embodiments, integrated solar panels can be stacked and / or used as building blocks to form various structures. According to some embodiments, integrated solar panels can be incorporated into building components (e.g., walls, columns, beams, windows, skylights, wall panels on building walls and / or roofs and / or columns, etc.). According to some embodiments, integrated solar panels can be incorporated into prefabricated building components, such as windows, walls, cladding, columns, roofs, wall panels, etc. According to some embodiments, integrated solar panels can be used and / or added to decorative components on buildings.

[0082] According to some embodiments, integrated solar panels advantageously provide a cheaper alternative for constructing buildings and / or structures and then adding solar panels to them. According to some embodiments, integrated solar panels can be inexpensive and / or easy to install. According to some embodiments, integrated solar panels can allow for dual use of space without the solar panels dominating the view and / or land use. For example, integrated solar panels can be structural elements (e.g., columns, exterior walls, interior walls, ceilings, windows, skylights, building walls and / or roofs and / or wall panels on columns, etc.).

[0083] In some embodiments, integrated solar panels may be easier to install than conventional solar panels. In some embodiments, integrated solar panels can generate more electricity on a vertical wall than flat panels. In some embodiments, integrated solar panels may be cheaper and / or easier to install, store, and / or transport than conventional flat panels.

[0084] According to some embodiments, the integrated solar panel and / or solar array may include one or more spacers. According to some embodiments, the spacers may be prism bricks without solar panels, conventional glass or thermoplastics, prism blocks with different optical properties, empty spaces, concrete, bricks, other building materials, etc.

[0085] As used herein, the term “solar flux” refers to both direct and indirect (e.g., diffuse) irradiance, where direct irradiance is the non-scattering flux, while diffuse irradiance is the scattered irradiance flux from the Sun.

[0086] According to some embodiments, integrated solar panels can be highly efficient due to their use of solar solar flux. According to some embodiments, integrated solar panels can utilize solar flux passing through a refractive surface and can propagate it across a larger area of ​​solar cells, thereby increasing the energy output and / or efficiency of the integrated solar panel. According to some embodiments, the dispersion of solar flux within the three-dimensional depth of the integrated solar panel can provide high efficiency.

[0087] According to some embodiments, integrated solar panels, in addition to providing solar energy, can also reduce sunlight entering a building through windows, thereby reducing summer heat, avoiding annoying glare, and reducing fading of furniture, carpets, and artwork.

[0088] According to some embodiments, integrated solar panels can be used to collect heat, acting as radiators and / or may include systems for collecting thermal energy. According to some embodiments, integrated solar panels and / or solar cell arrays may include multiple solar collectors and / or multiple thermal collectors. According to some embodiments, integrated solar panels can be cooled by thermal collectors and / or by operating a water system passing through or near the integrated solar panels.

[0089] According to some embodiments, integrated solar panels and / or solar arrays can be positioned facing the sun, such as in the north, south, east, and / or west. According to some embodiments, integrated solar panels and / or solar arrays may not face the sun directly, but can concentrate diffused sunlight. According to some embodiments, integrated solar panels and / or solar arrays can collect light from many different azimuth and / or elevation angles as the sun moves across the sky, including different angles with the sun in winter and summer. According to some embodiments, integrated solar panels can cover and / or be integrated into the entire surface of a building, such as an entire roof and / or wall panels.

[0090] According to some embodiments, integrated solar panels and / or solar arrays can be used to construct curtain walls, skylights, roofs, pergolas, columns, solar panels for agricultural applications, soundproof walls, stair treads, sidewalk curbs, wall panels for walls and / or roofs and / or columns, wall panels for high-rise buildings, and panels for temporary and / or low-cost buildings such as animal fences, warehouses, kennels, etc.

[0091] According to some embodiments, integrated solar panels can be incorporated into solar cell arrays. According to some embodiments, the integrated solar panels and / or solar cell arrays can be angled to receive direct and / or indirect sunlight throughout all times of day and all seasons of year, and / or sunlight from other directions (e.g., reflection from objects, refraction in the atmosphere, etc.). According to some embodiments, integrated solar panels can be designed to collect different types of solar radiation. According to some embodiments, integrated solar panels designed to collect different types of solar radiation (e.g., high-intensity solar radiation, low-intensity solar radiation, direct solar radiation, indirect solar radiation, thermal radiation, ultraviolet radiation, etc.) can be configured at different locations on a building.

[0092] As used herein, the term "inverter" refers to a device that converts variable direct current (DC) output from photovoltaic solar panels into alternating current (AC) at an operating frequency suitable for grid connection or use in a local off-grid power network. Solar inverters may include special features applicable to photovoltaic arrays, such as maximum power point tracking (MPPT) and anti-islanding protection. There are two main types of inverters: string inverters (also known as centralized inverters), used to convert electrical energy from multiple solar panels into AC; and microinverters, used for each individual solar cell unit. Each possibility is a separate implementation.

[0093] As used herein, the term "converter" refers to a device for converting a voltage supplied by a 12-volt battery (typically used in DC appliances and / or off-grid solar systems) to 24 or 48 volts. Each possibility is a separate embodiment.

[0094] According to some embodiments, the integrated solar panel can be connected to one or more rechargeable batteries. According to some embodiments, the integrated solar panel can be connected to the power grid.

[0095] According to some embodiments, integrated solar panels can be designed to collect different types of solar radiation (e.g., high-intensity solar radiation, low-intensity solar radiation, direct solar radiation, indirect solar radiation, thermal radiation, ultraviolet radiation, etc.). According to some embodiments, integrated solar panels collecting different types of solar radiation can be connected separately and / or individually to different inverters and / or converters. According to some embodiments, integrated solar panels oriented in a specific direction and / or with a specific azimuth angle can be connected to a set of inverters and / or converters, while integrated solar panels oriented in different directions and / or with specific azimuth angles can be connected to different sets of inverters and / or converters. According to some embodiments, various integrated solar panels can be interconnected and / or connected to various inverters and / or converters to reduce and / or prevent performance degradation and / or damage to the solar collector.

[0096] According to some embodiments, the integrated solar panel may include and / or be connected to one or more charge controllers. According to some embodiments, the one or more charge controllers may be DC-DC converters for adjusting the power passing through the system and maximizing output. According to some embodiments, the one or more charge controllers may assist the battery pack and / or inverter in receiving a more consistent current. Optionally, the panel may include quick connectors and / or data ports and / or wireless transceivers and / or maximum power point controllers (MPPCs) for power transmission. Alternatively or additionally, the data ports and / or wireless transceivers and / or MPPCs may be connected to multiple optionally interconnected panels.

[0097] Optionally, the panels may include areas without solar cells, for example, where mounting bolts and / or mounting connections can be placed to facilitate panel installation without damaging the solar cells. For instance, the solar panels may be configured for easy installation on building frames designed for conventional building panels.

[0098] In some embodiments, the panel may include all possible materials. In some embodiments, the integrated solar panel may be made of metal (e.g., aluminum and / or steel and / or tin). Optionally, the integrated solar panel may be made of other materials (e.g., fiberglass, zinc, various plastics, phenyl carbonate, acrylic, etc.). Optionally, the interior and / or backing of the wall panel may include foam plastic and / or rock wool. Optionally, it may be installed as a roof. The wall may be vertical and / or angled (e.g., to receive more sunlight in the collection section). Specific Implementation

[0100] Before explaining at least one embodiment of the present invention in detail, it should be understood that the invention is not necessarily limited in its application to the components and / or methods set forth in the following description and / or the construction and arrangement details shown in the drawings and / or embodiments. The invention can have other embodiments or be implemented or performed in various ways.

[0101] Please refer to the attached diagram in the instruction manual:

[0102] Figure 1 These are schematic diagrams illustrating various possible uses of integrated solar panels according to some embodiments of the present invention. For example, in embodiment 100, the integrated solar panels can be used to construct houses 101a, animal enclosures 101b (e.g., kennels), agricultural buildings 101c (e.g., barns and / or greenhouses), commercial buildings (e.g., restaurants 101d, market stalls 101e, shops), storage units, offices (e.g., high-rise buildings 101f), warehouses 101g, walls 101h, pillars 101i, cladding, wall panels 101j, ships, boats, trucks, trailers, motorhomes, food trucks, low-cost housing, sheds, fences, etc.

[0103] Figures 2A to 2H This is a schematic diagram illustrating exemplary locations of integrated solar panels according to some embodiments of the present invention. For example, the integrated solar panel 200 may be integrated into prefabricated panels, building components, and / or used as a building component. Optionally, the integrated solar panels may be stacked and / or used as building blocks to form various structures. According to some embodiments, the integrated solar panel may be load-bearing and / or non-load-bearing. According to some embodiments, the integrated solar panel may be decorative. According to some embodiments, the integrated solar panel may be dual-purpose, such as a solar collector and a building component.

[0104] According to some embodiments, integrated solar panels and / or solar arrays can be positioned facing the sun, for example, exposed to the north, south, east, and / or west. According to some embodiments, integrated solar panels and / or solar arrays may not face the sun directly, but can receive diffused sunlight. According to some embodiments, a reflective surface 202 on the solar panel (non-collecting) can guide and / or concentrate sunlight (directly and / or indirectly and / or diffusely) onto the collecting portion 203 of the solar panel. According to some embodiments, as the sun 201 moves across the sky, the integrated solar panels and / or solar arrays can collect light from many different azimuth and / or elevation angles 204, including different angles with the sun in winter and summer. According to some embodiments, integrated solar panels can cover and / or be integrated into all or part of a surface, such as the roof and / or wall panels of a building, columns, floating platforms, etc.

[0105] In some embodiments, the integrated solar panel may be at least partially constructed of metal (e.g., aluminum and / or steel and / or tin). Optionally, when constructed of aluminum and / or zinc-plated tin, the integrated solar panel may dissipate heat more effectively than other materials (e.g., polycarbonate, fiberglass, other plastics, etc.). Optionally, the integrated solar panel may be at least partially constructed of other materials (e.g., fiberglass, zinc, plastics, etc.).

[0106] In some embodiments, the present invention can be installed as a wall panel on a building wall. Optionally, the wall panel components can be used for sun-facing walls of a building (e.g., in the Northern Hemisphere: a south-facing wall; in the Southern Hemisphere: a north-facing wall). Optionally, the wall panel can be adapted to local conditions; for example, the angle of the corrugated structure with solar cells on one side can be adjusted in each country according to its solar zenith angle to fit the wall.

[0107] Additionally, and / or alternatively, portions of the integrated solar panel (e.g., non-collecting portions) may be painted, for example, white, metallic, etc. Optionally, the painted portions may function as reflectors, concentrating and / or reflecting approximately 60-70%, 70-80%, or 80-90% of sunlight (direct, indirect, and / or diffuse). Optionally, portions of the panel may be painted with a cooling coating (e.g., a heat-reducing paint). Optionally, such a coating may reduce the temperature of the integrated solar panel by approximately 15-20°C, and / or approximately 20-25°C, and / or approximately 25-30°C, and / or more than approximately 30°C. Optionally, the coating may serve as corrosion protection. Optionally, the integrated solar panel may be designed with alternative colors and / or patterns, for example, consumer-attractive and / or reflective.

[0108] Figure 2A A building is shown with integrated solar panels 200 on opposite surfaces 205a, 205b on opposite sides of the sloping roof ridge. In some embodiments, the panels can be placed on opposite surfaces when both surfaces are exposed to strong sunlight. This may occur, for example, in low latitudes and / or where the roof slope is shallow and / or the ridge is generally oriented north-south. Alternatively or additionally, for example, as Figure 2B As shown, the integrated solar panel 200 can be installed only on one side 205c of the roof peak. This can happen, for example, when one side receives significantly more sunlight than the other. For instance, for an east-west oriented peak in the Northern Hemisphere, the south side may receive more sunlight than the north side. The roof may include integrated solar panels on the south side and non-solar panels (such as conventional corrugated panels) on the north side.

[0109] In some embodiments, the roof may be made of and / or combined with integrated solar panels 200 (e.g., as shown in the figure). Figure 2A , 2B (as shown in 2E). Alternatively or additionally, the integrated solar panel 200 can be installed on top of an existing roof (e.g., as shown in 2E). Figure 2C and 2D As shown). In some embodiments, the integrated solar panel 200 can be used for roofing and wall panels (e.g., as shown). Figure 2D , 2E (as shown in 2G). In some embodiments, the integrated solar panel 200 may be connected to a support (e.g., as shown in 2G). Figure 2F (As shown). In some embodiments, the integrated solar panel 200 can be used in dedicated solar energy collection facilities, such as floating solar collectors (e.g., as shown). Figure 2H (As shown).

[0110] Figures 3A to 3C This is a schematic diagram illustrating an exemplary integrated solar panel according to some embodiments of the present invention. For example, the integrated solar panel may be part of and / or integrated into roofing and / or wall panel materials and / or components, and / or may be roofing materials and / or wall panel materials and components, such as corrugated roofing tiles, ceramic roofing tiles, alternative roofing tiles, skylights, etc. According to some embodiments, the integrated solar panel may include any relevant technologies, such as photovoltaic (e.g., crystalline photovoltaic cells, thin-film photovoltaic cells, etc.) and / or solar thermal technologies (e.g., heating water). According to some embodiments, the integrated solar panel may be a prism-like block having solar cells on one or more surfaces. According to some embodiments, the integrated solar panel may be used in conjunction with one or more conventional solar panels and / or thin-film solar panels.

[0111] According to some embodiments, the integrated solar panel can be corrugated, such as a roof panel, wall panel, etc. According to some embodiments, in a corrugated integrated solar panel, the angle of the corrugated structure can be adjusted to improve solar energy collection efficiency. According to some embodiments, the angle of the integrated solar panel and / or the angle of the corrugated structure can be adjusted to increase the total solar energy collection and / or power per surface area of ​​the collector. According to some embodiments, the integrated solar panel can be located on one or more sides of the corrugated structure facing the sun. According to some embodiments, the integrated solar panel can cover the entire surface of the corrugated structure.

[0112] According to some embodiments, the integrated solar panel and / or solar array may include one or more spacers. According to some embodiments, the spacers may be prism bricks without solar panels, conventional glass or thermoplastics, prism blocks with different optical properties, empty spaces, metals (e.g., frames), concrete, bricks, other building materials, etc.

[0113] In some embodiments, the corrugated structure can have various geometries. For example, an integrated solar panel may include a trapezoidal corrugated structure 300a and / or a corrugated structure with more than one depth, such as... Figure 3A As shown: For example, the corrugated structure may have a flat top and / or sloping sides, similar to a trapezoid. Optionally, the tops of some (e.g., large corrugated structures) or all of the corrugated structures and / or the sun-facing recesses may include solar collectors. In some embodiments, the valleys and / or portions of the valleys and / or the non-sun-facing recesses and / or smaller recesses may include solar collectors and / or reflectors. In some embodiments, the trapezoidal corrugated structure 300a has high load-bearing capacity and is typically used in industrial applications such as flooring and paving. For example, an integrated solar panel may include a sinusoidal corrugated structure 300b (e.g., as... Figure 3B (As shown). For example, the corrugated structure can have the characteristics of a smooth, circular sine wave across the sheet. The sinusoidal corrugated structure 300b optionally provides good strength and stiffness, and / or can be used for roofing, cladding, and / or wall panels. Alternatively or additionally, the corrugated structure may include box-shaped corrugated structures and / or U-shaped corrugated structures and / or decorative finishes.

[0114] In some embodiments, the corrugated structure may be parallel to the long dimension of the sheet (e.g., as shown in the figure). Figure 3B The corrugated structure 300b shown. Alternatively or additionally, the corrugated structure (e.g., as shown) Figure 3A and 3C The corrugated structures 300a and / or 300c shown can be

[0115] Figures 4A to 4F This is a schematic diagram of various contours of a solar corrugated panel according to embodiments of the present invention. Optionally, the geometry and / or color and / or material of the panel can be adapted to different applications and locations. For example, in locations with low solar angles, the collecting portion of the integrated solar panel can be relatively vertical. Optionally, the relative lengths of the reflecting and collecting portions can be adjusted according to the amount of sunlight and / or power requirements of a specific location and / or application. Optionally, the color of the panel can be adapted to local conditions (e.g., the amount, color, and / or diffusion of sunlight at the location requiring electricity and / or the time of year or time of day). For example, in locations with high and / or low temperatures, the panel may include an insulating backing.

[0116] In some embodiments, the present invention may include solar energy collecting portions 402a to 402f and non-collecting portions 404a to 404f. Optionally, the non-collecting portions may be reflective. Optionally, the collecting and non-collecting portions may be horizontally positioned on the integrated solar panel. In some embodiments, the collecting and non-collecting portions may be diagonally positioned on the integrated solar panel. In some embodiments, the collecting and non-collecting portions may be vertically positioned on the integrated solar panel. In some embodiments, the corrugated structure may be longitudinally oriented towards the panel. Optionally, the panel may be mounted with the corrugated structure oriented vertically and / or horizontally and / or diagonally.

[0117] Optionally, these two sections can be located on opposite sides of the corrugated structure, for example, between the valley and the peak. Optionally, the two types of sections can be located on opposite sides of the corrugated structure, from the valley to the peak. Optionally, the collecting section can be positioned to optimally receive sunlight.

[0118] According to some embodiments, integrated solar panels can be used as building components (e.g., directly attached to a building frame and / or fixed to a building wall). Optionally, the integrated solar panels can be positioned such that collecting portions 402a to 402f can be located on the upper surface of a corrugated valley (which may face upwards) to receive sunlight from above. In this embodiment, non-collecting portions 404a to 404f can be located on the lower surface of the opposite corrugated valley (which may face downwards), the corrugated valley typically exposed to less sunlight. Additionally, or alternatively, the non-collecting portions 404a to 404f can reflect additional sunlight to the collecting portions. Optionally, the non-collecting portions can facilitate the collection of a proportion of sunlight that is conventionally unavailable for conversion into electrical energy. Additionally, or alternatively, the non-collecting portions can help maintain temperature. Optionally, the solar panel can include one or more spaces behind and / or between the panel and / or its components to facilitate airflow, for example, to provide cooling.

[0119] According to some embodiments, integrated solar panels can be used as wall panels. Optionally, integrated solar panels can be manufactured using pre-installed insulating materials, such as foam and / or rock wool. Optionally, integrated solar panels can be used as roofing. Optionally, integrated solar panels can be used as fencing and / or fencing coverings. Optionally, integrated solar panels can be lightweight, thin, and / or robust.

[0120] According to some embodiments, the width of the integrated solar panel can range from about 52 mm to about 85 mm, and / or from about 85 mm to about 125 mm, and from about 125 mm to about 165 mm. Optionally, the opposing surfaces of the integrated solar panel (e.g., the top and bottom surfaces of the reflective and non-reflective portions and / or the corrugated structure) can have similar angles and / or lengths. Alternatively or additionally, the opposing surfaces of the integrated solar panel can have different angles and / or lengths. According to some embodiments, the thickness of the integrated solar panel can range from about 38 mm to about 65 mm, and / or from about 65 mm to about 95 mm, and from about 95 mm to about 120 mm.

[0121] In some embodiments, the size of the integrated solar panel can advantageously provide a low profile protruding from walls and / or roofs. Optionally, due to the size of the integrated solar panel, when installed on rooftops and / or solar fields, it can advantageously have less wind resistance than conventional solar panels, which can result in a reduced likelihood of being blown away by the wind. Optionally, the integrated solar panel can be installed on fishponds and / or bodies of water. Optionally, due to the reduced wind resistance (“sail effect”), the integrated solar panel may not require the same secure fixing to a base and / or anchors and / or building frame as conventional solar panels. Optionally, due to its design, the integrated solar panel can be mounted using an inexpensive, thin, and straight base, rather than the expensive, high base required for conventional solar panels. Optionally, when constructed of tin and / or aluminum, the integrated solar panel can benefit from the use of thinner glass due to its strength. Optionally, the integrated solar panel can be less expensive than conventional solar panels in terms of the use of glass-lined solar cells.

[0122] In some embodiments, the integrated solar panel may be, at least partially, made of aluminum. For example, the aluminum gauge may range from about 24 to about 26, and / or from about 20 to about 24, and / or from about 26 to about 30, and / or from about 18 to about 24, and / or from about 10 to about 18. In some embodiments, the integrated solar panel may be, at least partially, made of steel. For example, the steel gauge may range from about 22 to about 24, and / or from about 18 to about 22, and / or from about 24 to about 30, and / or from about 22 to about 16, and / or from about 16 to about 10. Optionally, the steel may be galvanized.

[0123] In some embodiments, (e.g., such as) Figure 4AAs shown, the solar energy collecting portion 402a can be placed on the surface facing the first direction, and / or the non-solar energy collecting portion 404a (e.g., a reflective surface) can be located on all surfaces facing the opposite direction. For example, the solar energy collecting portion 402a can be provided with alternating grooves and / or placed on a peak, while the non-solar energy collecting surface 404a can be placed on an intermediate groove and / or a valley. For example, alternating grooves can be used to form offset curved parallel surfaces (e.g., as shown). Figure 4A As shown, this applies to the case of a sinusoidal corrugated structure geometry. Alternatively or additionally, the lower portion of the sun-facing surface where shadows occur relatively frequently (e.g., the portion with alternating grooves near the valleys) may include a non-solar energy collecting and / or reflective surface.

[0124] In some embodiments, the solar collector is placed on more surfaces of the plate. For example, in an alternative embodiment, the surface designated as non-solar collector 404a may also include the solar collector. Alternatively, the solar collector may be placed on a surface receiving less light (e.g., on...). Figure 4A In the example, solar collectors labeled as non-solar collecting surfaces) and highly irradiated surfaces (e.g., Figure 4A The surface marked as solar collection surface 402a is wired individually and / or in parallel. For example, this will avoid burnout and / or energy loss caused by connecting a high-radiation collector in parallel to a low-radiation collector.

[0125] Figure 4B An embodiment of an integrated solar collector with a corrugated plate having alternating areas of a solar collecting portion 402b and a non-solar collecting portion 404b is shown. Optionally, the non-collecting portion 404b is larger and / or reflective. Optionally, the solar collecting surface 402b is smaller. For example, this can save costs due to the relatively small size of the solar collecting portion 402b. Optionally, for example, when the solar collecting portion 402b is oriented upwards (e.g., for a horizontally oriented corrugated structure) and / or diagonally towards the solar incidence direction, the solar collecting portion 402b will receive almost direct sunlight (e.g., due to its angle and / or being at a high angle). Optionally, the non-solar collecting portion 404b is at a low angle, for example, this will suppress shading of the solar collecting portion. Optionally, the non-solar collecting portion 404b is highly reflective, reflecting light incident upon it back to the solar collecting portion 402b.

[0126] In some embodiments, (e.g., for) Figure 4B The alternating surfaces (alternating grooves) of the triangular corrugated structure are offset parallel surfaces and / or offset parallel lines.

[0127] In some embodiments, the solar collector is placed on more surfaces of the plate. For example, in an alternative embodiment, the surface designated as non-solar collector 404b may also include the solar collector. Alternatively, the solar collector may be placed on a surface receiving less light (e.g., on...). Figure 4B In the example, solar collectors labeled as non-solar collecting surfaces) and highly irradiated surfaces (e.g., Figure 4B The surface marked as solar collection surface 402b is wired individually and / or in parallel. For example, this will avoid burnout and / or energy loss caused by connecting a high-radiation collector in parallel to a low-radiation collector.

[0128] Figure 4C An embodiment of an integrated solar collector with a corrugated plate is shown, having alternating regions of a solar collecting portion 402c and a non-solar collecting portion 404c. Optionally, the non-collecting portion 404c is smaller and / or reflective. Optionally, the solar collecting surface 402c is larger. For example, the relatively smaller non-solar collecting portion 404c reflects light onto the larger solar collecting surface 402c. For example, the non-solar collecting portion 402b is oriented towards the solar incident direction (e.g., upward (e.g., for a horizontally oriented corrugated structure) and / or diagonally towards the solar incident direction). Optionally, the solar collecting portion 402c is at a low angle. Optionally, the non-solar collecting portion 404c is highly reflective, reflecting light incident upon it back to the solar collecting portion 402b.

[0129] In some embodiments, (e.g., for) Figure 4C The alternating surfaces (alternating grooves) of the triangular corrugated structure are offset parallel surfaces and / or offset parallel lines.

[0130] Figure 4D An embodiment of an integrated solar collector with a corrugated plate is shown, having alternating areas of a solar collecting portion 402d and a non-solar collecting portion 404d. Optionally, the non-collecting portion 404d is smaller and / or reflective. Optionally, the solar collecting surface 402d is larger. Optionally, the solar collecting portion 402d is directed at a favorable tilt angle to receive direct sunlight throughout the year. For example, the relatively small non-solar collecting portion 404d is oriented in a selected direction to avoid casting shadows on the solar collecting portion 402d. Optionally, the non-solar collecting portion 404d is reflective to reflect light onto the solar collecting surface 402d.

[0131] In some embodiments, (e.g., for) Figure 4D The alternating surfaces (alternating grooves) of the triangular corrugated structure are offset parallel surfaces and / or offset parallel lines.

[0132] Figure 4E An embodiment of an integrated solar collector with a corrugated plate is shown, having alternating areas of solar collecting portions 402e, 405e and non-solar collecting portions 404e. Optionally, the non-collecting portion 404e is smaller and / or reflective. Optionally, portions of the solar collecting portion 405e that may receive lower light intensity (e.g., portions more easily shaded than other portions, such as those near the non-collecting portion 404e) may be wired separately from portions 402e that may receive higher light intensity. For example, the wiring of portion 405e may be parallel to the wiring of 402e and / or a transformer element may be present between the wiring of different solar collecting portions 402e and 405e. Optionally, the solar collecting portions 402e and 405e are at a low angle. Optionally, the non-solar collecting portion 404c is highly reflective, reflecting light incident upon it back to the solar collecting portions 402e and 405e. Alternatively or additionally, portion 405e may be non-solar collecting. For example, some non-solar collection sections (e.g., in an alternative embodiment where section 405e is non-solar collection) are directed toward the solar incident direction (e.g., upward (e.g., for a horizontally oriented corrugated structure) and / or diagonally toward the solar incident direction).

[0133] In some embodiments, (e.g., for) Figure 4E The alternating surfaces (alternating grooves) of the corrugated structure are offset parallel surfaces and / or offset parallel lines. Alternatively, or additionally, corrugated integrated solar panels with multiple non-solar collection areas can have different corrugated geometry (e.g., curved, sinusoidal, trapezoidal, etc.). Alternatively, or additionally, corrugated integrated solar panels include multiple solar collection areas that can be connected in parallel and / or in series and / or independently and / or with circuits connected to transformers and / or DC / AC converters and / or pulse width converters, etc. That is, electricity can be harvested individually from different parts (e.g., solar collection sections 402e, 405e).

[0134] Figure 4FAn embodiment of an integrated solar collector corrugated plate is shown, having alternating regions of solar collecting portions 402f and 405f and a non-solar collecting portion 404f. Alternatively or additionally, portion 405f may include a solar collector and / or may be wired separately from portion 402f. Optionally, the non-collecting portion 404f is smaller and / or reflective. Optionally, portions of the solar collecting portion 405f that may receive lower light intensity (e.g., portions more easily shaded than other portions, such as portions near the non-collecting portion 404f) may be wired separately from portion 402f that may receive higher light intensity and / or receive light for more time. For example, the wiring of the different portions may be connected in parallel and / or via a transformer. For example, solar collecting portions 402f and / or 405f are directed toward the direction of solar incidence (e.g., for a horizontally oriented corrugated structure) and / or diagonally toward the direction of solar incidence. Optionally, solar collecting portions 402f and 405f are at a low angle. Optionally, the non-solar collection portion 404f is highly reflective, reflecting light incident upon it back to the solar collection portions 402f and 405f. In some embodiments, the angle between the surfaces can be an obtuse angle (e.g., as shown in the figure). Figures 4A to 4E (As shown). Alternatively or additionally, the angle between the parts can be an acute angle (e.g., as shown). Figure 4F As shown, the angle between parts 404f and 405f).

[0135] In some embodiments, (e.g., for) Figure 4F The alternating surfaces (alternating grooves) of the corrugated structure are offset parallel surfaces and / or offset parallel lines. Alternatively, or additionally, corrugated integrated solar panels with multiple non-solar collection areas can have different corrugated geometry (e.g., curved, sinusoidal, trapezoidal, etc.). Alternatively, or additionally, corrugated integrated solar panels include multiple solar collection areas that can be connected in parallel and / or in series and / or independently and / or with circuits connected to transformers and / or DC / AC converters and / or pulse width converters, etc. That is, electricity can be harvested individually from different parts (e.g., solar collection sections 402e, 405e).

[0136] Figure 4GAn embodiment of an integrated solar collector with a corrugated plate is shown, having alternating regions of a solar collecting portion 402g and non-solar collecting portions 404g and 405g. Optionally, the non-collecting portions 404g and 405g are reflective. For example, the solar collecting portion 402g and / or the non-solar collecting portion 405g are directed toward the solar incident direction (e.g., upward (e.g., for a horizontally oriented corrugated structure) and / or diagonally toward the solar incident direction). Optionally, the non-solar collecting portion 404g reflects light back to the solar collecting portion 402g. In some embodiments, light 407 incident on the non-solar reflecting portion 405g is reflected 408 to the non-solar collecting portion 404g and reflected back 409 to the solar collecting portion. In some embodiments, the angle between the surfaces can be an obtuse angle (e.g., as shown in the image). Figures 4A to 4E (As shown). Alternatively or additionally, the angle between the parts can be an acute angle (e.g., as shown). Figure 4F As shown, the angle between parts 404g and 405g).

[0137] In some embodiments, (e.g., for) Figure 4G The alternating surfaces (alternating grooves) of the corrugated structure are offset parallel surfaces and / or offset parallel lines. Alternatively, or additionally, corrugated integrated solar panels having multiple non-solar collection areas can have different corrugated geometry (e.g., curved, sinusoidal, trapezoidal, etc.). Alternatively, or additionally, corrugated integrated solar panels comprising multiple solar collection areas, which may be connected in parallel and / or in series and / or independently and / or with circuits such as transformers and / or DC / AC converters and / or pulse width converters, can have different corrugated geometry (e.g., curved, sinusoidal, trapezoidal, etc.).

[0138] Figures 4A to 5B This is a schematic diagram of an exemplary integrated solar cell array according to some embodiments of the present invention. For example, prefabricated panel 502 and / or wall panel may be constituted by an array of integrated solar cells 504. According to some embodiments, the integrated solar cell 504 may be part of the prefabricated panel 502. Optionally, the integrated solar cell may include spacers 506. Optionally, the spacers 506 may be non-collecting. Optionally, the spacers 506 may be reflective. According to some embodiments, the integrated solar cells 504 may be aligned parallel to each other. According to some embodiments, the solar cells may be aligned vertically, horizontally, and / or at an angle to the ground.

[0139] Figures 6A to 6BThis is a schematic diagram illustrating an exemplary use of an integrated solar panel according to some embodiments of the present invention. For example, the integrated solar panel can collect high-intensity and / or low-intensity solar radiation. According to some embodiments, the integrated solar panel 602 may include a primary solar cell 604 and / or a secondary solar cell 606. According to some embodiments, the integrated solar panel may include a primary solar cell 604 for collecting high-intensity solar radiation and / or a secondary solar cell 606 for collecting low-intensity solar radiation.

[0140] According to some embodiments, the primary solar cell and / or secondary solar cell can be arranged in any configuration relative to each other, such as alternating panels. According to some embodiments, the number of primary solar cells and secondary solar cells can have a ratio in the range of 10:1 to 1:10.

[0141] According to some embodiments, integrated solar panels can be incorporated into solar cell arrays. According to some embodiments, the integrated solar panels and / or solar cell arrays can be positioned at optimal angles to receive direct and / or indirect sunlight for many hours of the day and one or more seasons of the year, and / or sunlight from other directions (e.g., reflection from objects, reflection from non-collecting portions of the solar panels, refraction in the atmosphere, etc.). According to some embodiments, the integrated solar panels can be designed to collect different types of solar radiation. According to some embodiments, integrated solar panels designed to collect different types of solar radiation (e.g., high-intensity solar radiation, low-intensity solar radiation, direct solar radiation, indirect solar radiation, diffuse solar radiation, thermal radiation, ultraviolet radiation, etc.) can be configured at different locations on a building.

[0142] According to some embodiments, integrated solar panels can be designed to collect different types of solar radiation (e.g., high-intensity solar radiation, low-intensity solar radiation, direct solar radiation, indirect solar radiation, diffuse solar radiation, thermal radiation, ultraviolet radiation, etc.) which can be connected separately and / or individually to different power converters. According to some embodiments, integrated solar panels oriented in a specific direction can be connected to a group of power converters, while integrated solar panels oriented in different directions can be connected to different groups of power converters. According to some embodiments, various integrated solar panels can be connected to each other and / or connected to various power converters, thereby reducing and / or preventing performance degradation and / or damage to the solar collector. For example, power can be collected independently from different solar cells 604, 606.

[0143] Figure 7APhotographs B are exemplary photographs of the use of an integrated solar panel according to some embodiments of the present invention. For example, the integrated solar panel 702 can be used in conjunction with one or more conventional solar panels 704 and / or thin-film solar panels. According to some embodiments, the integrated solar panel can be used as a wall panel. According to some embodiments, the thickness of the integrated solar panel can range from about 0.001 mm to about 200 mm. According to some embodiments, the solar panel may not have a uniform thickness.

[0144] According to some embodiments, integrated solar panels can be added to and / or used in a wide range of possible applications, including warehouse walls and roofs, as well as soundproofing walls, fences, rafts, boats, trailers, food trucks, sheds, houses, warehouses, skyscrapers, decorative elements, etc. Optionally, integrated solar panels can be used as wall panels and / or for prefabricated wall panel components, such as walls, roofs, etc., and / or can be attached to movable elements, such as awnings on warehouse walls and roofs, garage doors, retractable roofs, external blinds, curtains, etc., as well as soundproofing walls, fences, etc.

[0145] Figure 8 This is an image of an integrated solar panel with a non-collection area according to an embodiment of the present invention. For example, the integrated solar panel may include collecting solar cells 806 on a surface oriented in one direction and / or non-collection portions 808 of the panel oriented in another direction (e.g., at different angles toward incident solar radiation 804 from the sun 802). Alternatively or additionally, the non-collection area 808 may include secondary solar cells. Optionally, the collecting solar cells 806 oriented in one direction may be wired separately from cells oriented in another direction. Alternatively or additionally, power converters (e.g., pulse-width modulation power converters and / or transformers, etc.) may be connected to cells in different areas, for example, to facilitate individual control and / or different currents from different areas. Optionally, the solar panel may include quick connectors 810 to facilitate simple interconnection between panels and / or between panels and the power grid and / or between panels and appliances.

[0146] Figure 9 This is a schematic diagram of the use of an integrated solar panel according to an embodiment of the present invention. For example, a building in the Northern Hemisphere may include an integrated roof panel 902, which has solar cells on a south-facing surface and a non-cell collection area facing north (and / or the opposite for buildings in the Southern Hemisphere, and / or for buildings near the equator, the solar cells may face both north and south simultaneously).

[0147] For example, a building in the Northern Hemisphere may include an integrated west-facing panel 904 with solar cells on its south-facing and upward-facing surfaces, and non-cell collection areas facing north and downward (and / or vice versa for buildings in the Southern Hemisphere). Optionally, the panel is configured to be mounted and / or mounted at an angle, such as vertical, horizontal, or tilted at an angle between vertical and horizontal, for example, between about 10 and 30 degrees with respect to the horizontal plane, and / or between about 30 and 60 degrees with respect to the horizontal plane, and / or between about 60 and 80 degrees with respect to the horizontal plane. For example, the tilted corrugated structure may be made of a panel having a corrugated structure orthogonal to the edge of the panel, and / or the panel may be mounted at an angle. Alternatively or additionally, the corrugated structure may be tilted to the edge of the panel and / or the panel may be mounted such that its edge is orthogonal to the edge of the building.

[0148] For example, a building in the Northern Hemisphere may include an integrated south panel 906 with solar cells on its upward-facing surface and a downward-facing non-cell collection area (and / or for the north wall of a building in the Southern Hemisphere).

[0149] Figure 10 This is a schematic diagram illustrating the use of an integrated solar panel according to an embodiment of the present invention. For example, a building may include an integrated roof panel 1002 having an east-west oriented corrugated structure and solar cells on an east-facing surface and a west-facing surface. Optionally, in the morning, the east-facing cell may be primary and the west-facing cell secondary, and / or at night, the east-facing cell may be secondary and the west-facing cell primary. Optionally, the east-facing and west-facing surfaces may be wired separately, for example, to facilitate separate control and / or current through the primary and secondary cells. Optionally, in the case of a sloped roof, the above configuration can be applied according to the slope angle and direction of the roof. Alternatively, or additionally, flat side panels may also be used.

[0150] For example, buildings in the Northern Hemisphere may include orthogonally (vertically or horizontally) oriented integrated solar panels on a side wall 1006 (e.g., the west side). Optionally, the solar cells are installed on a south-facing or upward-facing surface and / or a north-facing or downward-facing non-cell collection area (and / or the opposite for buildings in the Southern Hemisphere). Optionally, the individual surfaces and / or areas of the integrated solar panels may be wired separately, for example, to facilitate separate control and / or current through the primary and secondary cells.

[0151] For example, a building in the Northern Hemisphere may include an integrated south panel 1004 with solar cells disposed on its upward-facing surface and a downward-facing non-cell collection area (and / or, for the north wall of a building in the Southern Hemisphere). Optionally, the individual surfaces and / or areas of the integrated solar panel may be wired separately, for example, to facilitate separate control and / or current through the primary and secondary cells.

[0152] Figure 11 This is a block diagram illustrating an integrated solar panel according to some embodiments of the present invention. For example, the integrated solar panel 1100 may include a plurality of solar panels 1104 integrated into prefabricated building panels 1102 (e.g., wall panels, roof panels, windows, walls, roofs, columns, stairs, lintels, etc.) and may generate solar energy, which may be transmitted to a converter and / or the power grid via connecting lines 1106.

[0153] Figure 12 This is a flowchart illustrating the use of an integrated solar panel according to certain embodiments of the present invention; for example, in method 1200, an integrated solar panel 1202 is integrated into a prefabricated building component, which is used 1204 in the construction of the structure to provide a structural component 1206 that can be load-bearing or non-load-bearing, and to efficiently provide 1208 solar energy.

[0154] Figure 13 This is a block diagram of a system according to an embodiment of the present invention. For example, in system 1300, a prefabricated integrated solar panel 1302 can be attached to a wall and / or building frame 1304 via screws and brackets 1312. Optionally, the integrated solar panel can be connected to an energy management system 1316 via a cable 1308. The integrated solar panel may include a corrugated aluminum plate 1306, which includes a solar energy collecting portion 1310 and a non-collecting portion 1314. Optionally, the non-collecting portion 1314 may be reflective, for example, as described above, reflecting sunlight onto the facing solar panel.

[0155] In some embodiments, integrated solar panels can be used for, for example, roofs, wall panels, fences, sheds, greenhouses, carports, storage buildings, commercial buildings, temporary structures, animal enclosures and / or industrial buildings.

[0156] In some embodiments, a frame may be constructed. Optionally, the frame may be at least partially constructed of wood, metal, plastic, etc. Optionally, the size and type of the frame may depend on the size and weight of the building, and / or the size and weight of the prefabricated solar panels, and / or power requirements. Optionally, the frame and / or integrated solar panels may be load-bearing and / or non-load-bearing.

[0157] In some embodiments, the integrated solar panel can be attached to a frame. For example, a corrugated aluminum sheet can be attached to the frame using screws, brackets, and / or rivets. In some embodiments, the integrated solar panel may include one or more backing layers, coatings, and / or filler layers. Optionally, the panel may include an insulating backing layer. Optionally, the backing may provide sound insulation, heat insulation, rigidity, and / or durability. Optionally, the backing and / or filler layers may include foam, fiberglass, paper, plastic, foam, metal, etc.

[0158] According to some embodiments, integrated solar panels can be installed like simple corrugated plates to achieve a simple and / or inexpensive structure. For example, the integrated solar panels of embodiments of the present invention can be used to construct inexpensive temporary buildings with their own power supply and / or inexpensive storage buildings with their own power (e.g., for alarm systems and / or lighting and / or remote control sensors and / or actuators).

[0159] Figure 14 This is a flowchart of a system operation method according to an embodiment of the present invention. For example, in method 1400, an integrated solar panel can be positioned on-site 1402, such as on a wall, roof, pole, utility pole, streetlight pole, fishpond, and / or water surface. The integrated solar panel can be placed in the desired location. The integrated solar panel can then be secured 1404 using screws and brackets. The integrated solar panel can be constructed as a single panel (not composed of other components) for direct mounting to the wall and / or building frame and / or bolts using screws. Due to its simple installation, the present invention can save on installation costs. The integrated solar panel can be placed on the sun-facing side of a building (e.g., in the Northern Hemisphere, it can be placed on the south-facing side; alternatively, in the Southern Hemisphere: on the north-facing side). The integrated solar panel can be adjusted to suit local conditions 1406. For example, the angle of the solar collection portion of the integrated solar panel 1410 can be adjusted according to the solar zenith angle of each country to suit the wall. Alternatively, the dimensions, depth, and angle of the corrugated structure (e.g., groove height and spacing) can be adjusted so that the solar panels on the wall (e.g., on the side facing upwards) are not blocked by the other side of the corrugated structure when the expected solar zenith is reached. The integrated solar panels can be connected via wires to a preferred energy management system 1408. Sunlight received by the solar panels (which may include a percentage of light reflected by the non-collection portion) can be converted into electrical energy. The solar collection portion can convert solar energy into electrical energy and / or heat energy 1412, which can be transmitted 1414 to the energy management system, for example, for storing electricity and / or transferring it to use within the building and / or converting it into heat energy, and / or selling it to the grid, etc.

[0160] Overview

[0161] It is anticipated that during the period from this application to the grant of the patent, many related construction technologies, artificial intelligence methods, computer user interfaces, and image capture devices will be developed, with the aim of a priori including all such new technologies in the scope of terms such as design elements, analysis programs, and user devices.

[0162] Unless otherwise defined, all technical and / or scientific terms used herein have the same meaning as commonly understood by one of ordinary skill in the art to which this invention pertains. While similar or equivalent methods and materials may be used in the implementation or testing of embodiments of the invention, the following describes exemplary methods and / or materials. In case of conflict, the patent specification (including definitions) shall prevail. Furthermore, the materials, methods, and examples described are illustrative only and are not intended to be limiting as necessary.

[0163] As used in this article, the terms “solar” and “sun” are used interchangeably.

[0164] As used in this article, the terms “solar radiation” and “sunlight” are used interchangeably.

[0165] As used herein, the term “about” means ±10%.

[0166] The words “comprises,” “comprising,” “includes,” “including,” and “having,” and their variations, mean “including but not limited to.”

[0167] "consisting of" means "including and limited to".

[0168] "Mainly composed of..." means that the composition, method, or structure may include additional components, steps, and / or parts only if the additional components, steps, and / or parts do not substantially alter the basic and novel characteristics of the claimed composition, method, or structure.

[0169] As used herein, the singular forms “a,” “an,” and “the” include the plural referent unless the context clearly indicates otherwise.

[0170] In this application, various embodiments of the invention can be represented in a range format. It should be understood that the range format is merely for convenience and brevity and should not be construed as a rigid limitation on the scope of the invention. Therefore, a description of a range should be considered as specifically disclosing all possible subranges and individual numerical values ​​within that range. For example, a description of a range, such as from 1 to 6, should be considered as specifically disclosing subranges from 1 to 3, from 1 to 4, from 1 to 5, from 2 to 4, from 2 to 6, from 3 to 6, etc., and individual numbers within that range, such as 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, and 6. This applies regardless of the breadth of the range.

[0171] Whenever this text refers to a range of numbers, it means to include any referenced numbers (fractions or integers) within the range. The phrases “ranging / ranges between the first and second represented numbers” and “ranging / ranges from the first represented number to the second represented number” are used interchangeably in this text and mean to include the first and second represented numbers as well as all fractions and integers between them.

[0172] It should be understood that, for clarity, certain features of the invention described in the context of separate, multiple embodiments may also be provided in combination in a single embodiment. Conversely, for brevity, various features of the invention described in the context of a single embodiment may also be provided separately or in any suitable sub-combination, or suitably provided in any other described embodiment of the invention. Certain features described in the context of various embodiments should not be considered essential features of those embodiments unless the embodiment is inoperable without these elements.

[0173] Although the invention has been described in conjunction with specific embodiments thereof, it will be apparent to those skilled in the art that many alternatives, modifications, and variations will be readily apparent. Therefore, the object of the invention is to include all such alternatives, modifications, and variations that fall within the spirit and broad scope of the appended claims.

[0174] All publications, patents, and patent applications mentioned in this specification are incorporated herein by reference in their entirety to the same extent that each individual publication, patent, or patent application is specifically and individually indicated and incorporated herein by reference. Furthermore, any reference or identification of any reference in this application should not be construed as an admission that such reference is prior art to the present invention. The use of section headings should not be construed as an inherent limitation.

Claims

1. A building panel, characterized in that, The building panels include: A corrugated metal base with multiple peaks and multiple valleys; and Multiple first solar collectors are located on multiple alternating grooves in the base.

2. The building panel as described in claim 1, characterized in that, The multiple alternating grooves are multiple offset parallel surfaces.

3. The building panel as described in claim 1, characterized in that, The metal is at least one of aluminum and steel.

4. The building panel as described in claim 1, characterized in that, The intermediate grooves between the alternating grooves are colored lightly.

5. The building panel as described in claim 4, characterized in that, The alternating grooves are at least partially facing upwards, the plurality of intermediate grooves are at least partially facing downwards, and the plurality of intermediate grooves point at a steep angle.

6. The building panel as described in claim 4, characterized in that, The plurality of alternating grooves are at least partially facing toward the sun, the plurality of intermediate grooves are at least partially facing away from the sun, and the plurality of intermediate grooves are pointed toward the sun at a shallow angle.

7. The building panel as described in claim 4, characterized in that, The light color is white.

8. The building panel as described in claim 1, characterized in that, The building includes a plurality of second solar collectors and separate wiring for the plurality of first solar collectors and the plurality of second solar collectors, the separate wiring being configured to harvest electrical energy from the first set of solar collectors independently of harvesting energy from the plurality of second solar collectors.

9. The building panel as described in claim 8, characterized in that, The plurality of second solar collectors are located on a plurality of grooves between the plurality of alternating grooves.

10. An integrated solar panel, characterized in that, The integrated solar panel includes: multiple solar energy collection components; and Multiple non-collecting portions, wherein the multiple non-collecting portions are reflective; and The plurality of collecting portions and the plurality of non-collecting portions are adjacent to each other.

11. The integrated solar panel as described in claim 10, characterized in that, The plurality of non-collecting portions are configured to reflect solar radiation onto the plurality of collecting portions.

12. The integrated solar panel as described in claim 10, characterized in that, The plurality of non-collecting sections are configured to concentrate solar radiation onto the plurality of collecting sections.

13. The integrated solar panel as described in claim 10, characterized in that, The integrated solar panel is configured to bear weight.

14. The integrated solar panel as described in claim 10, characterized in that, The integrated solar panel is configured to be non-load-bearing.

15. The integrated solar panel as described in claim 10, characterized in that, The angles of the plurality of collecting portions relative to the plurality of non-collecting portions are adjustable.

16. The integrated solar panel as described in claim 10, characterized in that, The angles of the multiple collecting sections relative to the multiple non-collecting sections are determined based on the azimuth of the sun.

17. The integrated solar panel as described in claim 10, characterized in that, The integrated solar panel also includes a connection to an energy management system.

18. The integrated solar panel as described in claim 10, characterized in that, The integrated solar panel is corrugated.

19. The integrated solar panel as described in claim 10, characterized in that, The integrated solar panel is prefabricated.

20. The integrated solar panel as described in claim 10, characterized in that, The integrated board is lightweight.

21. A method for using multiple integrated solar panels, characterized in that, The method includes the following steps: The plurality of integrated solar panels are positioned on a frame or a surface, wherein the plurality of integrated solar panels include: Multiple solar energy collection components; and Multiple non-collecting portions, wherein the multiple non-collecting portions are reflective; and The plurality of collecting portions and the plurality of non-collecting portions are adjacent to each other; The plurality of integrated solar panels are fixed to the frame or the surface; Adjusting an angle of the plurality of integrated solar panels, thereby configuring the plurality of non-collecting portions to reflect and / or concentrate solar radiation onto the plurality of collecting portions; converting solar radiation into electricity and / or heat; and The electricity and / or heat are transferred to an energy management system connected to the plurality of integrated solar panels.

22. The method as described in claim 21, characterized in that, The method also includes adjusting the angle of the plurality of integrated solar panels to adapt to local conditions.

23. The method as described in claim 21, characterized in that, The method also includes adjusting the angles of the plurality of collecting portions relative to the plurality of non-collecting portions to adapt to local conditions.

24. The method as described in claim 21, characterized in that, The solar radiation mentioned includes high-intensity solar radiation, low-intensity solar radiation, direct solar radiation, indirect solar radiation, diffuse solar radiation, thermal radiation, ultraviolet radiation, and any combination thereof.

25. The method as described in claim 21, characterized in that, The frame or the surface is vertical, horizontal, or tilted at an angle between vertical and horizontal.

26. The method as described in claim 21, characterized in that, The method also includes using the plurality of integrated solar panels to at least partially construct a structure.

27. The method as described in claim 26, characterized in that, The multiple integrated solar panels are easy to install.

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