Photovoltaic roof tile supporting leg

Abstract

An arrangement of a foot for a PV (PV) roofing tile is described. The foot includes a plurality of retention features that engage with the hooks or brackets of adjacent roofing tiles to prevent upward movement of roofing tiles located on the roof from the foot. The foot also positions the PV roofing tile at a fixed distance above the roofing substrate without applying a set of slats atop the roofing substrate. A non-PV roofing tile compatible with the described foot is also described. The non-PV roofing tile is configured such that it can be cut into smaller pieces as needed to fill small openings on the roof portion.

Description

[0001] CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

[0002] This application claims priority to U.S. Provisional Patent Application Serial No. 63 / 426,566, filed on November 18, 2022, entitled “Photovoltaic Roof Tile Support,” the contents of which are incorporated herein by reference in their entirety. Technical Field

[0003] The present disclosure generally relates to photovoltaic (PV) roof tiles. More specifically, the present disclosure describes a PV roof tile leg having a connection interface configured to couple to upper roof PV roof tiles and non-PV roof tiles. Background Art

[0004] In residential and commercial solar installations, the roof of a building is typically mounted with PV modules, also known as PV or solar panels, which can include a two-dimensional array of solar cells (e.g., 6×12). PV roof tiles (or solar roof tiles) can be a special type of PV module that provides weather protection and a pleasing aesthetic to a home, while also functioning as PV modules, converting solar energy into electricity. PV roof tiles can be shaped like conventional roof tiles and can include one or more solar cells enclosed between front and back covers, but typically enclose fewer solar cells than conventional solar panels.

[0005] The front and back covers may be tempered glass or other materials that can protect the photovoltaic cells from weather elements. It should be noted that the dimensions of a typical roof tile may be 15 inches x 8 inches = 120 square inches = 774 square centimeters, and the dimensions of a typical solar cell may be 6 inches x 6 inches = 36 square inches = 232 square centimeters. Generally speaking, a PV roof tile installation will include a mix of PV roof tiles and non-PV roof tiles, as incorporating PV structures into each roof tile will typically provide more energy than a typical residence requires. For this reason, a roofing element that can be used with both PV roof tile and non-PV roof tile modules is desirable and can increase the affordability of PV roof configurations. Summary of the Invention

[0006] One embodiment may provide a PV roof tile having a foot configured to secure a leading edge of the tile positioned on an upper roof of the PV roof tile.

[0007] A corresponding PV roof tile is disclosed and includes a protective cover; a photovoltaic (PV) tile backing; a plurality of solar cells disposed between the protective cover and the PV tile backing, the plurality of solar cells including a first electrical terminal proximate a first end of the PV roof tile and a second electrical terminal proximate a second end of the PV roof tile; a plurality of legs, each of the plurality of legs including: a standoff positioned at the first end of the leg and attached to a downwardly facing surface of the PV tile backing; and a coupling assembly positioned at the second end of the leg, the second end opposite the first end of the leg, wherein the coupling assembly defines a plurality of adjacent retaining features configured to receive and prevent upward movement of one or more portions of the roof tile adjacent to the PV roof tile.

[0008] A roof is disclosed, comprising a plurality of roof tiles. The roof includes a first roof tile directly coupled to a roofing substrate and comprising: a first protective cover; a first PV tile backing; a first plurality of solar cells disposed between the first protective cover and the first PV tile backing; and a plurality of legs, each of the plurality of legs disposed between the PV tile backing and the roofing substrate and comprising a coupling assembly projecting laterally from below the PV tile backing; and a second roof tile positioned above the first roof tile and comprising: a second protective cover; a second PV tile backing; a second plurality of solar cells disposed between the second protective cover and the second PV tile backing; and a tile hook coupled to a downwardly facing surface of the PV tile backing and comprising a hook portion engaged within a retaining feature of the coupling assembly of a first leg of the plurality of legs.

[0009] A "solar cell strip," "PV strip," "smaller cell," or "strip" is a portion or section of a PV structure, such as a solar cell. A PV structure can be divided into strips. Strips can be of any shape and size. The width and length of strips can be the same or different. Strips can be formed by further dividing previously divided strips.

[0010] "Finger lines," "finger electrodes," and "fingers" refer to elongated conductive (eg, metal) electrodes of a PV structure used to collect charge carriers.

[0011] "Busbar," "bus line," or "bus electrode" refers to an elongated conductive (e.g., metal) electrode of a PV structure that collects current collected by two or more finger wires. A busbar is typically wider than the finger wires and can be deposited or otherwise positioned anywhere on or within a PV structure. A single PV structure may have one or more busbars.

[0012] A "PV structure" may refer to a solar cell, a solar cell segment, or a solar cell strip. A PV structure is not limited to devices manufactured by a particular method. For example, a PV structure may be a crystalline silicon-based solar cell, a thin-film solar cell, an amorphous silicon-based solar cell, a multicrystalline silicon-based solar cell, or a strip thereof. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0013] Figure 1 An exemplary configuration of PV roof tiles on a house is shown.

[0014] Figure 2 Shown is a perspective front view of an exemplary PV roof tile according to one embodiment.

[0015] Figure 3A An exemplary configuration of a multi-watt module according to one embodiment is shown.

[0016] Figure 3B A cross section of an exemplary multi-watt module is shown according to one embodiment.

[0017] Figure 4A Illustrated is a series connection between three adjacent cascaded PV strips according to one embodiment.

[0018] Figure 4B Illustrated is a side view of a cascaded string of stripes according to one embodiment.

[0019] Figure 4C An exemplary solar roof tile is illustrated according to one embodiment.

[0020] Figure 5A A top view of an exemplary multi-tile module is shown according to one embodiment.

[0021] Figure 5B A top view of another exemplary solar roof tile is shown according to one embodiment.

[0022] Figure 6 A partial view of a roof with a plurality of solar roof tiles and passive roof tiles is shown.

[0023] Figure 7A A plan view of the roof substrate is shown facing the surface of the PV roof tiles.

[0024] Figures 7B to 7C Shown is a close-up view of a PV roof tile foot.

[0025] Figures 7D to 7E Different views of the PV vehicle are shown.

[0026] Figure 7FShown is a plan view of multiple PV roof tiles coupled together.

[0027] Figures 7G to 7H Shown is how the hook portion of the tile hook slides into the retaining feature of the coupling assembly of the foot of a PV roofing tile.

[0028] Figure 8A A plan view of the downward facing surface of a non-PV roof tile is shown.

[0029] Figure 8B Shown is a side view of a PV roof tile mounted atop a roofing substrate.

[0030] Figure 8C Shows how the rear bracket of the non-PV roof tiles on the lower roof is connected to Figure 8B Depicted is the front bracket segment engagement of a non-PV roof tile.

[0031] Figure 8D A perspective view of the upper surface of a non-PV roof tile is shown, as well as a close-up view of the water channel of the non-PV roof tile.

[0032] Figures 9A to 9C Various views of the coupling assembly of a PV roof tile's leg coupled to a front bracket segment of a non-PV roof tile are shown.

[0033] FIG. 10A to FIG. 10B Different combinations of PV roof tiles and non-PV roof tiles are shown.

[0034] Figure 11 Shown is a flashing board added Figure 10A The configuration depicted. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0035] The following description is intended to enable any person skilled in the art to make and use the embodiments, and is provided in the context of a particular application and its requirements. Various modifications to the disclosed embodiments will be apparent to those skilled in the art, and the general principles defined herein may be applied to other embodiments and applications without departing from the spirit and scope of the present disclosure. Therefore, the disclosed system is not limited to the embodiments shown, but is to be accorded the widest scope consistent with the principles and features disclosed herein.

[0036] Overview

[0037] Embodiments of the present invention address at least the technical problem of reducing the number of components required to join PV and non-PV roof tiles together. Specifically, the present disclosure describes a foot for a PV module that is capable of attaching and securing other PV and non-PV roof tiles. Specifically, the foot defines a first opening for receiving a tile hook from another PV module and two additional openings, arranged on opposite sides of the first opening, for engaging adjacent front brackets of non-PV roof tiles. In this manner, a single foot can be used interchangeably to secure both PV and non-PV roof tiles together.

[0038] In addition to describing a new type of PV roof tile foot, a series of advances in forming strong yet flexible non-PV roof tiles are also described. Specifically, the roof tile can be formed from sheet metal and processed to have the appearance of a PV roof tile. Forming the roof tile from sheet metal material creates a non-PV roof tile that can be efficiently cut to fit portions of a roof section that would otherwise not accommodate a rectangular roof tile. For example, a conventional rectangular non-PV roof tile can be cut into nearly any polygon. Multiple triangular tiles may be required near various ridges and / or valleys of a particular roof section. By making one or two cuts in the non-PV roof tile, triangular or trapezoidal pieces can be formed. The combination of a versatile foot and a non-PV roof tile formed from metal can significantly reduce the number of parts required to perform a PV roof installation.

[0039] A "solar cell" or "cell" is a PV structure capable of converting light into electricity. Cells can be of any size and shape and can be made from a variety of materials. For example, a solar cell can be a PV structure fabricated on a silicon wafer or one or more thin films on a substrate material (e.g., glass, plastic, or any other material capable of supporting a PV structure), or a combination thereof.

[0040] A "solar cell strip," "PV strip," "smaller cell," or "strip" is a portion or section of a PV structure, such as a solar cell. A PV structure can be divided into strips. Strips can be of any shape and size. The width and length of strips can be the same or different. Strips can be formed by further dividing previously divided strips.

[0041] "Finger lines," "finger electrodes," and "finger" refer to elongated conductive (eg, metal) electrodes of a PV structure used to collect charge carriers.

[0042] "Busbar," "bus line," or "bus electrode" refers to an elongated conductive (e.g., metal) electrode of a PV structure that collects current collected by two or more finger lines. A busbar is typically wider than the finger lines and can be deposited or otherwise positioned anywhere on or within a PV structure. A single PV structure may have one or more busbars.

[0043] A "PV structure" may refer to a solar cell, a solar cell segment, or a solar cell strip. A PV structure is not limited to devices manufactured by a particular method. For example, a PV structure may be a crystalline silicon-based solar cell, a thin-film solar cell, an amorphous silicon-based solar cell, a multicrystalline silicon-based solar cell, or a strip thereof.

[0044] PV roof tiles and multi-tile modules

[0045] A PV roof tile (or solar roof tile) is a PV module shaped like a roof tile and typically packing fewer solar cells than a conventional solar panel. It should be noted that this type of PV roof tile can function as both a PV cell and a roof tile. In some embodiments, the systems disclosed herein can be applied to PV roof tiles and / or other types of PV modules.

[0046] Figure 1 An exemplary configuration of a PV roof tile on a house is shown. The PV roof tile 100 can be installed on a house like conventional roof tiles or shingles. In particular, the PV roof tile can be placed together with other tiles to prevent water from entering the building.

[0047] A PV roof tile can encapsulate multiple solar cells or PV structures, and the corresponding PV structure can include one or more electrodes, such as busbars and finger wires. The PV structures within the PV roof tile can be electrically coupled to each other, and optionally mechanically coupled to each other. For example, multiple PV structures can be electrically coupled together via their corresponding busbars by metal tabs to create a series or parallel connection. In addition, an electrical connection can be made between two adjacent tiles so that multiple PV roof tiles can provide power together. The decorative features of the PV roof tile can make the PV roof tile blend in with the non-PV roof tile and look the same as the non-PV roof tile. In some embodiments, the decorative features can be designed to operate ideally when viewed from angle 102.

[0048] Figure 2 A perspective view of an exemplary PV roof tile according to one embodiment is shown. Solar cells 204 and 206 may be sealed between a top glass cover 202 and a PV tile backing 208, which together may protect the solar cells from various weather elements. Figure 2In the example shown, a metallic tabbing strip 212 can contact the front electrode of solar cell 204 and extend beyond the left edge of glass 202, thereby serving as a contact electrode for the first polarity of the PV roof tile. Tabbing strip 212 can also contact the back side of solar cell 206, creating a series connection between solar cell 204 and solar cell 206. Tabbing strip 214, on the other hand, can contact the front side electrode of solar cell 206 and extend beyond the right edge of glass cover 202, serving as a contact electrode for the second polarity of the PV roof tile. In some embodiments, PV tile backing 208 can be a standard PV tile backing formed from one or more layers of a polymer, such as a fluoropolymer or a combination of PET and EVA layers. Alternatively, PV tile backing 208 can take the form of a rear glass cover.

[0049] In some embodiments, the solar cell arrays 204 and 206 can be encapsulated between the top glass cover 202 and the back cover 208. A top sealant layer, which can be polymer-based, can be used to seal the top glass cover 202 to the solar cell arrays 204 / 206. Specifically, the top sealant layer can include polyvinyl butyral (PVB), thermoplastic polyolefin (TPO), ethylene vinyl acetate (EVA), or N,N'-diphenyl-N,N'-bis(3-methylphenyl)-1,1'-diphenyl-4,4'-diamine (TPD). Similarly, a lower sealant layer, which can be based on a similar material, can be used to seal the solar cell array to the back cover 208. The PV roof tile can also include other optional layers, such as a light filter layer or a coating or nanoparticle layer to provide a desired color appearance. In Figure 2 In the example of FIG, the module or roof tile 300 may also include a light filter layer between the solar cell array and the front glass cover 202.

[0050] To facilitate larger scale production and easier installation, multiple PV roof tiles can be manufactured together and linked in a rigid or semi-rigid manner. Figure 3A An exemplary configuration of a multi-tile module according to one embodiment is illustrated. In this example, three PV roof tiles 302, 304, and 306 can be manufactured, with semi-rigid connections 322 and 324 established between adjacent tiles. Prefabricating multiple tiles into rigid or semi-rigid multi-tile modules can significantly reduce the complexity of roof installation because the tiles within the module are already connected with overlapping straps. It should be noted that the number of tiles included in each multi-tile module can be greater than Figure 3A More or less than shown.

[0051] Figure 3BA cross-section of an exemplary multi-watt module according to one embodiment is illustrated. In this example, multi-watt module 350 can include PV roof tiles 354, 356, and 358. These tiles can share a common PV tile backing 352 and have three separate glass covers 355, 357, and 359, respectively. Each tile can encapsulate two solar cells. For example, tile 354 can include solar cells 360 and 362 encapsulated between PV tile backing 352 and glass cover 355. Lapping strips can be used to provide electrical coupling within each tile and between adjacent tiles. For example, lapping strip 366 can connect the front electrode of solar cell 360 to the back electrode of solar cell 362, creating a series connection between the two cells. Similarly, lapping strip 368 can connect the front electrode of cell 362 to the back electrode of cell 364, creating a series connection between tile 354 and tile 356.

[0052] The gaps 322 and 324 between adjacent PV tiles can be filled with sealant to protect the overlapping strips that interconnect two adjacent tiles from weather elements. For example, sealant 370 fills the gap between tiles 354 and 356, protecting overlapping strips 368 from weather elements. Furthermore, the three glass covers, PV tile backing 352, and sealant together form the semi-rigid construction of multi-tile module 350. This semi-rigid construction facilitates installation and provides a degree of flexibility between tiles.

[0053] Apart from Figure 3A and Figure 3B As shown in the example, the PV tiles can include different forms of PV structures. For example, to reduce the internal resistance, Figure 3A Each square solar cell shown can be divided into multiple (e.g., three) smaller strips, each strip having edge busbars of different polarity on its two opposite edges. The edge busbars allow the strips to be cascaded one after another to form a series-connected string.

[0054] Figure 4A Illustrated is a series connection between three adjacent cascaded PV strips according to one embodiment. Figure 4A , strips 502, 504, and 506 are stacked in such a manner that strip 504 partially overlaps below adjacent strip 506 on its right side and overlaps strip 502 on its left side. The resulting string of strips forms a cascading pattern similar to roof shingles. Strips 502 and 504 are electrically coupled in series via edge busbars 508 on the top surface of strip 502 and edge busbars 510 on the bottom surface of strip 504. Strips 502 and 504 can be arranged in such a manner that bottom edge busbar 510 is located above and in direct contact with top edge busbar 508. The coupling between strips 504 and 506 can be similar.

[0055] Figure 4B A side view of a cascaded string of stripes is shown in accordance with one embodiment. Figure 4A and Figure 4B In the example shown, the strips can be segments of 6-inch square or pseudo-square solar cells, where each strip measures approximately 2 inches by 6 inches. To reduce shading, the overlap between adjacent strips should be as small as possible. Figure 4A and Figure 4B In the example shown, a single busbar (on the top and bottom surfaces) can be placed at or near the very edge of the strip. The same cascading pattern can extend along multiple strips to form a series-connected string, and multiple strings can be coupled in series or in parallel.

[0056] Figure 4C An exemplary solar roof tile according to one embodiment is illustrated. The solar roof tile 412 includes a top glass cover 414 and solar cells 516 and 518. The bottom cover (e.g., PV tile backing) of the solar roof tile 412 is Figure 4C Solar cells 416 and 418 may be conventional square or pseudo-square solar cells, such as six-inch solar cells. In some embodiments, solar cells 416 and 418 may each be divided into three separate pieces of similar size. For example, solar cell 416 may include strips 422, 424, and 426. These strips may be arranged in such a way that adjacent strips partially overlap at the edges, similar to Figures 4A to 4B To simplify the description, Figure 4C The electrode grid of the strips, including the finger lines and edge busbars, is not shown. Figure 4C Beyond the examples shown, the solar roof tiles may include fewer or more cascading strips, which may be of various shapes and sizes.

[0057] In some embodiments, multiple solar roof tiles can be assembled, each encapsulating a cascaded string, to obtain a multi-watt module. Intra-tile electrical coupling is achieved by overlapping the corresponding edge busbars of adjacent strips. However, inter-tile electrical coupling within such multi-watt modules can be a challenge. Strain relief connectors and long bus strips have been used to facilitate inter-tile connections. However, strain relief connectors can be expensive, and arranging the bus strips after arranging the cascaded strings can be cumbersome. In order to facilitate low-cost, high-volume manufacturing of solar roof tiles, in some embodiments, metal strips can be pre-laid on the back cover of the solar roof tile to form an embedded circuit similar to the metal traces on a printed circuit board (PCB). More specifically, the embedded circuit can be configured in such a way that it facilitates electrical coupling between multiple solar roof tiles within a multi-watt module.

[0058] In addition, in order to facilitate the electrical coupling between the embedded circuit and the edge busbar located on the front surface of the cascade string, in some embodiments, a Si-based bridge electrode can be attached to the cascade string. The Si-based bridge electrode may include a metal layer covering its entire rear surface and optionally includes a rear edge busbar. By overlapping its edge (e.g., the rear edge busbar) to the front edge busbar of the cascade string, the Si-based bridge electrode can transform itself into an electrode of the cascade string, transforming the front-facing electrode of the cascade string into an electrode accessible from the rear side of the cascade string.

[0059] Figure 5A A top view of an exemplary multi-tile module according to one embodiment is shown. Multi-tile module 600 can include PV roof tiles 502, 504, and 506 arranged side by side. Each PV roof tile can include six cascaded strips enclosed between front and back covers, which means that the busbars located at opposite edges of the string of cascaded strips have opposite polarity. For example, if the leftmost edge busbar of the strip in PV roof tile 502 has a positive polarity, the rightmost edge busbar of the strip will have a negative polarity. By electrically coupling busbars of opposite polarity, a series connection can be established between tiles, while by electrically coupling busbars of the same polarity, a parallel connection can be established between tiles.

[0060] exist Figure 5A In the example shown, the PV roof tiles are arranged in such a way that their sides facing the sun have the same electrical polarity. Therefore, edge busbars of the same polarity will be located on the same left or right edge. For example, the leftmost edge busbar of all PV roof tiles can have positive polarity, while the rightmost edge busbar of all PV roof tiles can have negative polarity, and vice versa. Figure 6 In the diagram, the left edge busbars of all strips have positive polarity (indicated by the "+" sign) and are located on the sun-facing (or front) surface of the strip, while the right edge busbars of all strips have negative polarity (indicated by the cc sign) and are located on the back surface. Depending on the design of the layer structure of the solar cell, the polarity and position of the edge busbars may be different from Figure 5A Those shown in .

[0061] By electrically coupling all leftmost busbars together via metal tab 510 and electrically coupling all rightmost busbars together via metal tab 512, a parallel connection between tiles can be formed. Metal tabs 510 and 512 are also referred to as connecting buses and can generally be used to interconnect individual solar cells or strings. The metal tabs can be stamped, cut, or otherwise formed from a conductive material such as copper. Copper is a highly conductive and relatively low-cost connector material. However, other conductive materials such as silver, gold, or aluminum can also be used. In particular, silver or gold can be used as a coating material to prevent oxidation of copper or aluminum. In some embodiments, an alloy that has been heat-treated to have superelastic properties can be used for all or part of the metal tabs. Suitable alloys can include, for example, copper-zinc-aluminum (CuZnAl), copper-aluminum-nickel (CuAINi), or copper-aluminum-beryllium (CuAlBe). In addition, the material of the metal tabs disclosed herein can be manipulated in whole or in part to change the mechanical properties. For example, all or portions of the metal tabs 510 and 512 may be forged (eg, to increase strength), annealed (eg, to increase ductility), and / or tempered (eg, to increase surface hardness).

[0062] The connection between the metal tabs and the busbars can be facilitated by specially designed strain relief connectors. Figure 5A In FIG. 5 , a strain relief connector 516 may be used to connect the busbar 514 and the metal tab 510. This type of strain relief connector is required due to the mismatch in thermal expansion coefficients between metals (eg, copper) and silicon. Figure 5A As shown, metal tabs (eg, tabs 510 and 512) may cross with strain relief connectors having opposite polarity. To prevent electrical shorting of the PV strips, portions of the metal tabs and / or strain relief connectors may be coated with an insulating film or wrapped with a sheet of insulating material.

[0063] In some embodiments, in addition to Figure 5A As shown, in addition to coupling tiles in parallel within a tile module using stamped metal tabs and strain relief connectors, series connections can also be made between tiles. Figure 5B A top view of an exemplary multi-tile module according to one embodiment is shown. Tile module 540 may include solar roof tiles 542, 544, and 546. Each tile may include Figure 4A and Figure 4B Multiple (e.g., six) cascaded solar cell strips are arranged in the manner shown. In addition, metal tabs can be used to interconnect PV strips enclosed in adjacent tiles. For example, metal tab 648 can connect the front of strip 632 to the back of strip 630, thereby creating a series coupling between strips 630 and 632. Although Figure 5BThe example in shows three metal tabs interconnecting the PV strips, but other numbers of metal tabs may be used. In addition, each solar roof tile may contain fewer or more cascaded strips, which may have various shapes and sizes.

[0064] To simplify the explanation, Figure 5A and Figure 5B Not shown are inter-tile spacers that provide support and facilitate mechanical and electrical coupling between adjacent tiles. A detailed description of such inter-tile spacers can be found in U.S. Patent Publication No. US20190260328A1, entitled "Inter-tile Support for Solar Roof Tiles," the disclosure of which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety.

[0065] Color Matching of Solar Roof Tiles

[0066] like Figure 4C 、 Figure 5A and Figure 5B As shown, when viewed from the side of the transparent and colorless front cover, the PV structure and external electrodes encapsulated between the front cover and the back cover can be different from the background. More specifically, Si-based PV structures often appear to have a blue / purple hue. Although applying color to the back cover can improve the color matching between the PV structure and the background, they cannot solve the problem of angular dependence of the color. In other words, the PV structure can appear different colors at different viewing angles, making color matching difficult. In addition, in addition to the solar roof tiles, the roof can sometimes include a certain number of "passive" or "dead" roof tiles, that is, roof tiles without embedded solar cells. These passive roof tiles may simply include a front cover and a back cover and a sealant sandwiched between the two covers. The difference in appearance between the solar roof tiles and the passive roof tiles often results in a less than satisfactory aesthetic.

[0067] Figure 6 A partial view of a roof with multiple solar roof tiles and passive roof tiles is shown. Figure 6 In the embodiment of the present invention, the roof 600 may include a plurality of roof tiles arranged in such a manner that the lower edges of the tiles in the top row overlap the upper edges of the tiles in the bottom row, thereby preventing water leakage. In addition, the tiles are offset in such a manner that the gaps between adjacent tiles in one row are slightly aligned with the centers of tiles in a different row. Figure 6In the example shown, tiles 602, 604, 606, and 608 are solar roof tiles, which may include a PV structure enclosed between a front cover and a back cover, and tiles 610 and 612 are passive roof tiles. As can be seen in the figure, the color contrast between the back cover and the PV structure can create a "picture frame" appearance for the solar roof tiles. In fact, the PV structure often appears to "float" on the colored back cover. Ideally, the solar roof tiles 602-608 should have a similar appearance to the passive roof tiles 610 and 612. Spacers 614 can fill the gaps between adjacent tiles and prevent water from passing between the PV tiles 602-608. In some embodiments, the spacers 614 can include electrical conductors that accommodate the passage of electricity and / or signals between adjacent PV tiles. In some embodiments, the spacers 614 can define a channel through which wires or similar conductors can pass to transmit power and / or signals between adjacent PV tiles.

[0068] PV roof tile legs

[0069] Figure 7A A plan view of the downward-facing surface of a PV roofing tile 700 is shown. A plurality of legs 702 are shown attached to a PV tile backing 704. Each leg 702 includes a coupling assembly 706 and a support 708 coupled together by a neck portion 710. In some embodiments, the legs 702 can take the form of an injection-molded polymer portion capable of supporting the weight of the PV roofing tile 700 atop a roofing substrate along with the other legs 702. The legs 702 can be configured to support the additional weight applied to or from the PV roofing tile 700 by people walking atop the PV roofing tile 700. The roofing substrate is typically formed of plywood and one or more layers of underlayment that help improve the overall waterproofing of the roof in the event that any moisture should pass through the row of roofing tiles positioned atop the roofing substrate.

[0070] The support 708 is also configured to elevate the PV tile backer 704 sufficiently above the roofing substrate to create a sufficient gap between the roofing substrate and the PV tile backer to allow attachment of various electrical components to the downward-facing surface of the PV tile backer 704. Specifically, a junction box 712 is shown positioned between the support legs 702-1 and 702-2. The junction box 712 is configured to receive a cable 714 that passes through one or more openings in the PV tile backer 704. While the cable 714 is shown secured in place on the PV tile backer 704, it should be understood that during installation, the cable 714 includes a male connector 716 and a female connector 718 that can be used to electrically couple adjacent PV tiles together, thereby allowing the energy generated by the PV tiles to be collected and then output for use by the home or grid to which they are attached. Solar roofing solutions typically also include an inverter, which is configured to convert the DC power generated by the PV roof tiles into AC power that can be used by the home or grid.

[0071] The PV tile backer 704 is also attached with a tile hook 720. The tile hook 720 is disposed near the lower roof facing end of the PV tile backer 704 and is configured to engage a retention feature from the PV roof tile 700 with a coupling assembly located on the lower roof of the PV roof tile. The tile hook 720 also includes one or more wire retention features that help secure the cable 714 to the downward facing surface of the PV tile backer 704 when the PV roof tile 700 is transported to the job site. Finally, the PV tile backer 704 also includes a plurality of protrusions 722 extending laterally from the upward roof facing edge of the PV tile backer 704. The protrusions 722 can be used to attach additional legs to the PV roof tile 700 that are used to connect adjacent PV roof tiles together. These legs are also used to connect the legs of adjacent roof tiles together. Figure 7F Described in, and in the description Figure 7F Additional protrusions 722 , obscured by the presence of legs 702 - 1 and 702 - 2 , are also part of the PV tile backing 704 and are used to assist in attaching the coupling assembly 706 of the legs 702 to the PV tile backing 704 .

[0072] Figure 7B An upper perspective view of the coupling assembly 706 is shown, including a partial cross-sectional view illustrating how one protrusion 722 engages a slot 724 defined by the coupling assembly 706. Specifically, the protrusion 722 is retained within the slot 724 by cantilever beams 726 and 728 exerting upward moments on the distal and proximal ends of the protrusion 722. The crossbeam 726, which forms the upper surface of the slot 724, prevents upward movement of the protrusion 722. As shown, the crossbeam 726 forms a Figure 7B724 . The depicted configuration allows the coupling assembly 706 to be securely attached to the PV tile backing 704 and also allows the foot 702 to be removed from the PV tile backing 704 . In particular, the openings 730 in the protrusions 722 allow a user to press the distal ends of the cantilever beams 728 to disengage the distal ends of the cantilever beams 728 from the openings 730 , thereby allowing the foot 702 to be withdrawn from the PV tile backing 704 . Once the protrusions 722 are securely positioned within the slots 724 , further movement is prevented by the cantilever beams 728 engaging within the openings 730 and retaining tabs 731 positioned at the distal ends of each protrusion 722 . While this attachment system provides the advantage of a removable foot 702 , it should be understood that the protrusions 722 could also be glued to a flat, upward-facing surface of the coupling assembly 706 or glued within a channel sized to receive the protrusions 722 . The support leg 702 can also be simply connected by the support 708 (see Figure 7A ) is directly glued to the PV tile backing 704 and fixed to the PV tile backing 704. In some embodiments, the support leg 702 can be fixed to the PV tile backing 704 by Figure 7B The cantilevered configuration shown in FIG is attached to the PV tile backing 704 and the support 708 may also be adhered to the PV tile backing 704 by using glue.

[0073] Figure 7B Also shown is the protective cover 732 of the PV roofing tile 700 and how it does not extend to cover the protrusion 722 that extends laterally from the edge of the PV tile backing 704 that is configured to be oriented in the direction of the upper roof. Figure 7B Also clearly depicted is a central retention feature 734 among the multiple retention features defined by coupling assembly 706. Specifically, access to retention feature 734 is defined by a triangular alignment feature 736, which includes a chamfered surface configured to guide one of tile hooks 720 into retention feature 734. While the depicted configuration shows triangular alignment feature 736 including a chamfered (i.e., flat / angled) surface 738 for guidance, it should be understood that chamfered surface 738 can also be modified to a curved surface (e.g., convex or concave), which can also help align tile hook 720 with retention feature 734 and facilitate entry of tile hook 720 into retention feature 734. Coupling assembly 706 is also configured to accommodate efficient removal of the tile to which it is coupled. For example, when a PV roof tile needs to be removed or maintained, it can be pushed onto the roof until its hook disengages from the corresponding coupling assembly, then lifted and slid off the roof and out of position once its wiring is disconnected.

[0074] Figure 7BThe diagram illustrates how retention structure 734 takes the form of an aperture defined by sidewalls 742, which determine the horizontal position of a tile hook 720 received within retention structure 734, and upper wall 744, which engages the hook portion of tile hook 720. Upper wall 744 is depicted as having a ribbed surface. It should be understood that a flat upper wall could also be used to achieve a similar result. Retention features adjacent to retention feature 734 could also include upper walls with ribbed or flat surfaces. In some embodiments, the ribbed surface can reduce friction when attempting to seat a tile hook within one of the retention features.

[0075] The coupling assembly 706 also includes a base 746 configured to contact and abut the roofing substrate. In some embodiments, the base 746 includes one or more fastener openings 748 that allow the base 746 of the coupling assembly 706 to be coupled to the roofing substrate using fasteners, such as nails or screws. The coupling assembly also includes a cable guide 750 that is configured to prevent any cables routed in front of the coupling assembly 706 from interfering with the tile hook 720 entering one of the retention features 734 defined by the coupling assembly 706. The retention features 734 can all be in the form of fully defined holes to allow the hook 720 to engage with any of the retention features 734. Alternatively, the outer retention features 734-2 and 734-3 can lack outer sidewalls that allow the retention features 734-2 and 734-3 to be engaged by a U-shaped bracket of a non-PV roofing tile, as will be described in more detail below.

[0076] Figure 7C A top view of the coupling assembly 706 is shown and more clearly illustrates the shape of the triangular alignment feature 736. Figure 7C While a configuration including only three adjacent retention features 734 is clearly shown, it should be understood that a wider coupling assembly 706 is also possible. For example, a wider coupling assembly can support four, five, six, or seven adjacent retention features 734, with additional triangular alignment features separating adjacent retention features 734. A wider coupling assembly 706 can be engaged by a greater number of parallel protrusions 722. For example, the coupling assembly 706 can include a slot corresponding to each triangular alignment feature.

[0077] Figures 7D to 7EA top view and a perspective view of a tile hook 720 are shown. Specifically, the tile hook 720 includes a deflectable wing 752 configured to deflect when engaged between the sidewalls 742 of the retention feature 734-1. The deflection of the deflectable wing 752 helps center the hook within the retention feature 734-1. Slight compression of the deflectable wing 752 also helps establish a secure interference fit within the retention feature 734-1. The tile hook 720 also includes a plurality of wire retention channels 754 located on a base portion 756 of the tile hook 720 for retaining cables during transport of the PV roofing tile 700. While the deflectable wing 752 is shown as integrally formed at the distal end of the hook portion 756 of the hook 720, the deflectable wing 752 may alternatively be formed from a resilient material different from the material used to form the remainder of the hook portion 758. For example, rubber bumpers can be positioned along opposite sides of the hook portion 758 to allow compression of the rubber bumpers while the remainder of the shoe hook 720 remains rigid to prevent deformation and displacement of the shoe hook 720. It should also be understood that the deflectable wings 752 can also have a linear geometry rather than a linear geometry as shown in FIG. Figure 7D and Figure 7E While shown with both ends of the wing attached to the hook portion 758, only the first end of each deflectable wing 752 may be attached, and the wing may extend linearly between 15 and 45 degrees to help center the hook portion 758 within the retention feature 734-1.

[0078] Figure 7F A plan view of the downward facing surfaces of PV roof tiles 700-1 and 700-2 and a portion of PV roof tile 700-3 is shown, wherein all three roof tiles are joined together. Of particular interest is that Figure 7F It shows how the tile hook 720 of the PV roof tile 700-2 engages the retaining feature of the coupling assembly 706 to couple the PV roof tile 700-2 to the PV roof tile 700-1. Figure 7FAlso depicted is a foot 760 that includes a coupling assembly 762 that couples to the protrusions 722 of the roof tiles 700-1 and 700-3. Foot 760 differs from foot 702 in that, rather than a single support, foot 760 includes a support structure 764 that extends across the interface between the PV roof tiles 700-1 and 700-3. Support structure 764 is configured to capture any water that passes through the gap between the PV roof tiles 700-1 and 700-3 and direct it in a down-roof direction, thereby preventing it from reaching the roofing substrate beneath the PV roof tile 700. Support structure 764 may define one or more channels that direct the water captured by support structure 764. The channels are configured to release the water onto the sun-facing surface of the roof tile positioned beneath the roof of foot 760. In addition to capturing and directing water passing between the PV roof tiles 700-1 and 700-3, the support structure 764 also includes one or more supports 766 that provide structural support for the edges of the PV roof tiles 700-1 and 700-3. Incorporating multiple supports 766 allows for a more even distribution of any forces received by the support leg 760. It should be understood that the support leg 760 can also include a single support 766 or an extended support 766 to achieve a more even distribution of forces. It should be noted that Figure 7F Also shown is an offset between half-tile roofing tile 700-1 and roofing tile 700-2. As depicted, this offset allows hook 720 of PV roofing tile 700-2 to engage with the first leg 702 of PV roofing tile 700-1, the second leg 702 of PV roofing tile 700-3, and the coupling assembly of leg 760, thereby securely interlocking the three PV roofing tiles together. It should be noted that other offsets may also be considered as a configuration option depending on the desired roof configuration. However, Figure 7F The configuration shown is preferred because a strong mechanical interlock is established between the roof tiles.

[0079] Figures 7G to 7H The hook portion 758 of the hook 720 is shown sliding into the retaining feature 734-1 of the coupling assembly 706. The cable guide 750 is shown preventing the cable 768 from interfering with the engagement of the hook portion 758 of the tile hook 720 into the retaining feature 734-1. The neck portion 768 of the leg 702 is also shown attaching the coupling assembly 706 to the support 708. Figures 7G to 7H It also shows how the legs 702 position the PV roof tile 700 at an angle that is non-parallel to the surface of the roofing substrate 772. This angles the PV roof tile slightly upward, which allows the leading edge of the PV roof tile to overlap the tile positioned below it.

[0080] Figure 8AA plan view of the downward-facing surface of a non-PV roof tile 800 is shown. The non-PV roof tile 800 can be formed from sheet metal having an upward-facing surface configured to match the look and style of the PV roof tile next to it. The downward-facing surface of the non-PV roof tile 800 can include a single support 802 formed from a plurality of interlocking vertical cross members 804 and horizontal cross members 806. The support 802 can be configured to elevate the non-PV roof tile 800 off the roofing substrate at a distance and angle similar to the support 702 of the PV roof tile 700. While a single support 802 is used herein, it should be understood that the support 802 can be replaced with multiple smaller supports distributed across the downward-facing surface of the non-PV roof tile 800. The support 802 can be adhesively coupled to the downward-facing surface of the non-PV roofing 800. The cross members 804 and 806 forming the support 802 may be formed from a polymeric material, however, other materials such as ceramics and lightweight metals may also be used to create all or part of the support 802 .

[0081] Figure 8A Also shown is a non-PV roof tile 800, which includes a rear bracket 808 configured to engage with one or more tile hooks on the upper roof of a PV roof tile of the non-PV roof tile 800, or one or more front bracket segments on the upper roof of the non-PV roof tile 800. The non-PV roof tile 800 includes front bracket segments 810-1-810-4. The front bracket segments 810 are separated by a distance sized to allow passage of the coupling assembly 706 of the legs 702 or 760 of the PV roof tile 700. The non-PV roof tile 800 also includes a water channel 812, which eliminates the need for the non-PV roof tile 800 to be equipped with a separate leg 760 configured to couple the non-PV roof tile 800 to an adjacent roof tile. In this manner, the water channel 812 can extend beneath the gap between adjacent non-PV roof tiles. The water channel 812 can be formed by bending the protruding ends of the sheet metal forming the majority of the non-PV roofing tiles 800 to form a channel configured to collect any water that passes between adjacent non-PV roofing tiles. In some embodiments, the lower portion of the rear bracket 808, which is configured to be secured to the roofing substrate, can include a notch 814 that helps prevent damage to the rear bracket 808. The notch 814 allows the packing team to pass the packing tape through the notch, which reduces the stress applied to the rear bracket 808 when securing the non-PV roofing tiles 800 to the pallet for shipping.

[0082] Figure 8BA side view of a non-PV roof tile 800 mounted atop a roofing substrate 772 is shown. The shape of a rear bracket 808 is shown, illustrating how the rear bracket 808 has a U-shaped geometry that allows it to capture one of the tile hooks 720 and / or one or more of the front bracket segments 810. In some embodiments, the rear bracket 808 can include one or more fastener openings that allow the non-PV roof tile 800 to be secured directly to the roofing substrate 772. Figure 8B The side view provided also illustrates how the vertical cross members 804 and the horizontal cross members 806 are interconnected by engaging the grooves defined by each of the corresponding cross members, thereby allowing each of the cross members to extend across most of the width or height of the non-PV roof tile 800, as shown. Figure 8A shown. Figure 8B It also shows how the vertical cross member 804 can extend from one of the front bracket segments 810 all the way to the rear bracket 808. Figure 8C It shows how the rear bracket 808 of the non-PV roof tile 800 on the lower roof engages with the front bracket segment 810 of the non-PV roof tile 800, thereby preventing the end of the non-PV roof tile 800 facing the lower roof from moving upward in the event of high winds or other natural phenomena.

[0083] Figure 8D A perspective view of the upper surface of a non-PV roof tile 800 is shown, along with a close-up view of a water channel 812. The close-up view of the water channel 812 illustrates how excess material at the edge of the sheet metal forming the non-PV roof tile 800 is shaped to form a channel 816, which is configured to direct any rainwater or moisture that passes between adjacent non-PV modules 800 to the roofing substrate. The water channel 812 also includes a lip 818 that is configured to interlock with adjacent non-PV roof tiles and prevent unintended lateral movement of the non-PV roof tiles during the installation process. It should be noted that when the opposite side of a non-PV module 800 that does not include a water channel 812 abuts a PV roof tile module 700, a standoff 760 can be used to prevent rainwater from passing between the tiles.

[0084] Figures 9A to 9C Various views of the coupling assembly 706 of the leg 702 of the PV roof tile 700 coupled to the front bracket segment 810 of the non-PV roof tile 800 are shown. Figure 9AA top view of the coupling assembly 706-1 is shown extending through the gap between the front bracket segments 810-3 and 810-4, such that portions of the front bracket segments 810-3 and 810-4 are secured within the retaining feature 734 of the coupling assembly 706-1. Although not specifically depicted, it is understood that the legs 760 attached to the PV roofing tile 700 will extend through the gap between the front bracket segments 810-1 and 810-2 to further secure the rear end of the PV roofing tile 700 to the front end of the non-PV roofing tile 800. Figure 9B A close-up perspective view of the foot 702 engaging the front bracket segments 810-1 and 810-2 is shown.

[0085] Figure 9C A perspective view of the underside of a PV roof tile is shown positioned between a plurality of non-PV roof tiles.The coupling assembly 706 of the leg 702 is shown engaged within the gap between the front bracket segments 810-2 and 810-3. Figure 9C The U-shaped geometry of the front bracket 810 - 3 is also shown. Figure 9C Also included is a foot 760 , which shows a perspective view of an exemplary foot 760 . Figure 9C The difference between standoff 708 of leg 702 and standoff 766 of leg 760 is shown. Figure 9C Also depicted are cable guides 902 of the foot 702 that protrude from the support 708 and allow for securing cables to the PV tile backing 704 during shipping of the PV roof tile 700 and in the early stages of installation. Figure 9C It also shows how the front bracket segment 810-1 fits within the rear bracket 808 of the non-PV roof tile on the upper roof.

[0086] FIG. 10A to FIG. 10B Different combinations of PV roof tiles and non-PV roof tiles are shown. In particular, Figure 10A It shows how the PV roof tile 700 is joined to the non-PV roof tile 800 - 1 , and how the non-PV roof tile 800 - 1 is joined to the non-PV roof tile 800 - 2 . Figure 9A The connection between the PV roof tile 700 and the non-PV roof tile 800 Figure 10A The connection between the PV roof tile 700 and the non-PV roof tile 800-1 is the same. The connection between the non-PV roof tile 800-1 and the non-PV roof tile 800-2 is achieved by the front bracket sections 810-1 and 810-2 of the non-PV roof tile 800-2 engaging with the opening defined by the U-shaped rear bracket 808 of the non-PV roof tile 800-1. It should be noted that Figure 8C This coupling configuration is shown in more detail in .

[0087] Figure 10BAnother combination of PV roof tiles and non-PV roof tiles is shown, where photovoltaic roof tiles 700-1 and 700-2 are offset by half a tile relative to non-PV roof tiles 800-1 and 800-2. Figure 10B Also shown is how water channel 812 covers the gap between adjacent non-PV roof tiles 800-1 and 800-2. It should be noted that examples of two, three, or four roof tiles being coupled together are given. It should be understood that a larger mixture of PV and non-PV roof tiles will be arranged side by side in rows or layers, with the roof tiles in each row offset from the rows immediately above and below.

[0088] Figure 11 Shown Figure 10A , with the addition of trimmed non-PV roof tiles 1102, 1104, and 1106. Trimmed non-PV roof tiles 1102, 1104, and 1106 can be produced by cutting intact non-PV roof tiles to fit smaller areas than they would otherwise fit. While trimmed non-PV roof tiles 1102, 1104, and 1106 are shown cut into triangular, trapezoidal, and rectangular geometries, many other geometries are possible. For example, holes to accommodate vents and other roof obstructions can be cut into the non-PV roof tiles. In situations where the top row of tiles would otherwise extend beyond the apex of the roof, the height of the non-PV roof tiles can be reduced, resulting in rectangular roof tiles with a greater aspect ratio. This is particularly effective because the non-PV roof tiles include a standoff, or in some embodiments, multiple standoffs, which allows the trimmed non-PV roof tiles cut from the non-PV roof tiles to include sufficient standoff material to maintain the desired standoff with the roofing substrate. In some embodiments, the non-PV roof tiles may be cut on-site using a circular saw or other portable saw to obtain the desired geometry.

[0089] Figure 11 Also shown are non-PV roof tiles 800-1 and 800-2, and how the non-PV roof tiles are integrated with the trimmed non-PV roof tiles. In particular, the water channels of the non-PV roof tiles are shown covering the gaps between the trimmed non-PV roof tiles 1104 and 1106 and the non-PV roof tiles 800-1 and 800-2.

[0090] The foregoing description of various embodiments is for illustration and description purposes only. They are not intended to be exhaustive or to limit the present system to the disclosed forms. Accordingly, numerous modifications and variations will be apparent to those skilled in the art. Furthermore, the foregoing disclosure is not intended to limit the present system.

Claims

1. A photovoltaic (PV) roof tile, comprising: protective cover; PV tile backing; a plurality of solar cells disposed between the protective cover and the PV tile backing, the plurality of solar cells; as well as Feet, including: a coupling assembly positioned at the first end of the leg, wherein the coupling assembly defines a plurality of adjacent retention features configured to receive and prevent upward movement of one or more portions of a roofing tile adjacent to the PV roofing tile; as well as A standoff is coupled to a downwardly facing surface of the PV tile backing and is positioned closer to a second end of the leg than the coupling assembly, wherein the second end of the leg is opposite the first end of the leg.

2. The PV roof tile of claim 1 , wherein the coupling assembly further comprises a plurality of fastener openings, each of the plurality of fastener openings being configured to receive a fastener that secures the leg to a roofing substrate.

3. The PV roof tile of claim 1 , wherein the coupling assembly comprises a plurality of angled surfaces configured to guide the one or more portions of the adjacent roof tiles into one or more of the plurality of adjacent retaining features during roof installation.

4. The PV roof tile of claim 1 , wherein the coupling assembly includes a plurality of triangular alignment features that separate the plurality of adjacent retention features and help guide the one or more portions of the roof tile into one or more of the plurality of adjacent retention features.

5. The PV roof tile of claim 4, wherein each of the triangular alignment features includes a cable guide that prevents wires routed in front of the coupling assembly from blocking the plurality of adjacent retention features.

6. The PV roofing tile of claim 1 , further comprising a tile hook attached to the downwardly facing surface of the PV tile backing.

7. The PV roof tile of claim 6, wherein the tile hook is configured to engage a central retaining feature of a plurality of adjacent retaining features of a coupling assembly of a leg of a lower roof of the PV roof tile of the PV roof tile.

8. The PV roof tile of claim 6, further comprising a plurality of hooks attached to the downwardly facing surface of the PV tile backing.

9. The PV roof tile of claim 6, wherein the tile hook comprises one or more deflectable surfaces configured to deflect to create an interference fit between the tile hook and an opposing wall, the opposing wall defining one of the plurality of retaining features of the coupling assembly.

10. The PV roof tile of claim 6, wherein the tile hook defines a plurality of wire retention channels.

11. The PV roof tile of claim 1 , wherein the upwardly facing surface of the coupling assembly defines a plurality of adjacent grooves, and wherein the PV tile backing includes a plurality of parallel protrusions extending laterally from a side of the PV tile backing, and a subset of the plurality of parallel protrusions extend into the plurality of adjacent grooves of the coupling assembly to secure the coupling assembly to the PV tile backing of the PV roof tile.

12. The PV roof tile of claim 11, wherein a first groove of the plurality of grooves is defined by a first cantilever beam, a second cantilever beam, and a cross beam.

13. The PV roof tile of claim 12 , wherein a first protrusion of the subset of the plurality of parallel protrusions extends into the first groove, and the first cantilever beam applies a first force to a distal end of the first protrusion in a first direction, the second cantilever beam applies a second force to a proximal end of the first protrusion in the first direction, and the cross beam is relatively positioned between the first cantilever beam and the second cantilever beam and applies a third force in a second direction opposite to the first direction.

14. The PV roof tile of claim 1 , wherein each leg further comprises a neck portion coupling the support to the coupling assembly and leaving a gap between the neck portion and the PV tile backing, wherein the gap is sized to accommodate the passage of one or more electrical cables.

15. The PV roof tile of claim 1, wherein an outboard retention feature of the plurality of adjacent retention features is configured to receive an adjacent front bracket segment of a roof on a non-PV roof tile from the PV roof tile.

16. The PV roof tile of claim 1 , wherein the plurality of solar cells comprises a first edge bus bar positioned near an edge of a first surface and a second edge bus bar positioned near an opposite edge of a second surface, and wherein the plurality of solar cells are arranged in such a manner that the first edge bus bar of a first solar cell overlaps the second edge bus bar of an adjacent solar cell, thereby causing the plurality of solar cells to form a series-coupled string.

17. The PV roofing tile of claim 1, wherein the support comprises a first surface in direct contact with the PV tile backing and a second surface opposite the first surface, the second surface configured to contact a roofing substrate.

18. The PV roof tile of claim 17, wherein the first surface is antiparallel to the second surface.

19. The PV roof tile of claim 1 , wherein the plurality of retention features include a central retention feature defined by opposing side walls and a ridged top wall, wherein the ridged top wall is configured to engage a hook portion of a tile hook disposed on an upper roof of the PV roof tile from the PV roof tile.

20. The PV roof tile of claim 1 , wherein the plurality of retaining features comprises a first outer retaining feature comprising a first ridged top wall and a first side wall facing a first direction, and a second outer retaining feature comprising a second ridged top wall and a second side wall facing a second direction opposite to the first direction.

21. A roof comprising: A first roof tile is directly coupled to a roofing substrate and comprises: a first protective cover; first PV tile backing; a first plurality of solar cells disposed between the first protective cover and the first PV tile backing; and a plurality of legs, each leg of the plurality of legs being disposed between the PV tile backing and the roofing substrate and comprising a coupling assembly projecting laterally from below the PV tile backing; and A second roof tile, the second roof tile being positioned on an upper roof of the first roof tile and comprising: a second protective cover; a second PV tile backing; a second plurality of solar cells disposed between the second protective cover and the second PV tile backing; and A tile hook is coupled to the downwardly facing surface of the second PV tile backing and includes a hook portion engaged within a retaining feature of the coupling assembly of a first leg of the plurality of legs.

22. The roof according to claim 21, further comprising: a third roof tile, the third roof tile being positioned on the upper roof of the first roof tile and being in abutment contact with the second roof tile, the third roof tile comprising: a plurality of front support segments disposed proximate a first edge of the third roof tile, wherein a first front support segment of the plurality of front support segments is disposed within a first retaining feature of the coupling assembly of a second leg of the plurality of legs, and a second front support segment of the plurality of front support segments is disposed within a second retaining feature of the coupling assembly of the second leg of the plurality of legs.

23. The roof of claim 22, wherein the first front support segment is separated from the second front support segment by a gap sized to accommodate passage of at least a portion of the second leg of the plurality of legs.

24. The roof of claim 22, wherein the sun-facing surface of the third roof tile is non-rectangular in shape.

25. The roof of claim 22, wherein the third roof tile does not include any solar cells.

26. The roof of claim 22, wherein the third roof tile includes a base formed from a plurality of vertical and horizontal cross members that span a majority of a downwardly facing surface of the third roof tile.

27. The roof of claim 21, wherein the second protective cover overlaps a portion of the first protective cover.

28. The roof of claim 21, wherein the coupling assembly comprises a plurality of adjacent retaining features.

29. The roof of claim 21 , wherein the retention feature of the coupling assembly of the first leg is at least partially defined by a ridged upper wall that resists upward movement of the tile hook.

30. The roof of claim 21, wherein each of the plurality of legs further comprises a seat coupled to the coupling assembly via a neck portion.

31. The roof of claim 22, wherein the second roof tile includes a second leg, the second leg including a support structure that supports a first lateral edge of the second roof tile and a second lateral edge of the third roof tile, and wherein the support structure defines one or more channels configured to capture and direct rainwater passing between the first roof tile and the second roof tile.

32. The roof of claim 31 , wherein the support structure comprises a plurality of supports.

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