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Flat roof tile with integrated photovoltaic module

Inactive Publication Date: 2008-11-27
LUMETA
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  • Summary
  • Abstract
  • Description
  • Claims
  • Application Information

AI Technical Summary

Benefits of technology

[0006]The roofing tile with integrated modular solar panel described herein and illustrated in the attached drawings enables the electricity-generating solar panel to be included in a seamless application with a conventional roofing tile because the solar panel is advantageously embodied in a shape and size of a conventional flat tile. As discussed herein, the size and shape of the solar panel tile may be adapted to the size and shape of tiles from a number of different manufacturers. The siz

Problems solved by technology

Originally, the solar panels were mounted over existing roofing materials (e.g., shingles) and formed a generally unaesthetic addition to a home.
In some areas, the solar panels were not permitted because of the unattractive appearance.

Method used

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  • Flat roof tile with integrated photovoltaic module
  • Flat roof tile with integrated photovoltaic module
  • Flat roof tile with integrated photovoltaic module

Examples

Experimental program
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Effect test

Embodiment Construction

[0018]FIGS. 1-7 illustrate an embodiment of a flat solar panel tile 100 suitable for mass production using injection molding techniques. The solar panel tile 100 comprises a tile base 102 and a solar panel assembly 104. The solar panel assembly comprises a solar panel support frame 106 and a photovoltaic panel (solar cell array) 108.

[0019]The tile base 102 is sized and shaped to conform to the size and shape of a conventional flat concrete tile configured to simulate the aesthetic appearance of a slate tile. In particular, the tile base has a plurality of striations (e.g., closely spaced grooves and ridges) formed on an exposed top surface 112 that are similar to the grooves on a concrete tile so that the top surface provides a “slate-like” appearance when viewed from a distance. An opposing bottom surface 114 (FIG. 2) of the tile base is formed as a plurality of strengthening ribs 116. Preferably, the tile base comprises injected molded plastic.

[0020]In the following description, “...

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PUM

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Abstract

A roofing module provides weather protection generates electrical power. The module includes an injection molded base having a size, a shape and an appearance of a conventional flat concrete roofing tile with a top surface having a slate-like striated texture. The base is made from lightweight plastic material. The base includes a depressed portion in an upper surface. A photovoltaic panel assembly is positioned in the depressed portion with electrical conductors from the photovoltaic panel passing through an opening in the depressed portion.

Description

RELATED APPLICATIONS[0001]The present application claims the benefit of priority under 35 U.S.C. §119(e) to U.S. Provisional Application No. 60 / 940,408, filed on May 26, 2007.BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION[0002]1. Field of the Invention[0003]The present invention relates to solar panels for generating electrical energy and more particularly relates to solar modules integrated into a flat roof tile.[0004]2. Description of the Related Art[0005]Conventional solar panels for generating electrical power for residences are flat and are placed on a portion of the roof that faces the sun during midday. Originally, the solar panels were mounted over existing roofing materials (e.g., shingles) and formed a generally unaesthetic addition to a home. In some areas, the solar panels were not permitted because of the unattractive appearance. Recently developed solar panels are constructed in sizes and shapes that can be mounted directly to the underlying roof structure as replacements for flat roofin...

Claims

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Application Information

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IPC IPC(8): E04D13/18
CPCH02S20/25Y02B10/12Y02B10/10Y02E10/50
Inventor FLAHERTY, BRIAN J.DAVEY, TIMOTHY M.
Owner LUMETA
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