Building integrated photovoltaic system for tile roofs

Abstract

Building integrated photovoltaic (BIPV) systems provide for solar panel arrays that can be aesthetically pleasing to an observer, with minimal visible difference between photovoltaic and non-photovoltaic areas of the BIPV system. BIPV systems can be incorporated as part of roof surfaces as built into the structure of the roof, particularly as roofing tiles that have photovoltaic elements embedded or incorporated into the body of the roofing tiles. BIPV systems can also include mimic or dummy tiles that appear similar to tiles with photovoltaic elements, but do not collect solar energy. In some configurations, the appearance of BIPV tile roof systems can be generally uniform to an observer at ground level, where the blending and distribution of photovoltaic and non-photovoltaic elements generate a consistent and elegant appearance that camouflages any differences between photovoltaic tile or non-photovoltaic tiles.

Description

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS[0001]This claims the benefit of priority to U.S. Provisional Application No. 62 / 413,298, entitled “BUILDING INTEGRATED PHOTOVOLTAIC SYSTEM FOR TILE ROOFS” and filed on Oct. 26, 2016, which is herein incorporated by reference in its entirety.TECHNICAL FIELD[0002]This generally relates to photovoltaic arrays.BACKGROUND[0003]Solar is becoming increasingly popular in the United States and abroad, but penetration remains relatively low versus the number of homes that could benefit from solar. The price per kilowatt for solar is now competitive with or below that of utility power in most areas, however, solar largely remains a niche product for those who value saving money, reducing CO2 emissions, or both.[0004]One factor that may limit the adoption of solar technology is aesthetics. Most residential solar systems are installed as modules on an existing tile or composition shingle roof. The solar array, which often only covers a portion of the roof,...

AI Technical Summary

Benefits of technology

[0007]Various embodiments provide a new and improved approach to installing solar on existing roofs, and in particular, existing tile roofs. Some aspects fit over an existing tile roof and/or other suitable roof surfaces (e.g., a metal roof, composite shingle, roof deck, underlayment or insulation layer). Some aspects have improved aesthetics that reduce the visual differences between solar and non-solar portions of the roof. Some aspects are more modular and/or simplify the replacement capability of individual photovoltaic modules of the system. In additio

Problems solved by technology

One factor that may limit the adoption of solar technology is aesthetics.

Another obstacle to solar adoption in existing homes is the dissonance between the age of the existing roof and the solar system, particularly where the existing roof is made fro

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