Solar collecting fencing system

Abstract

A solar collecting fencing system is provided, comprising a fence panel assembly with a metal sheet formed as a single piece. The metal sheet is shaped to define contoured sections, each having a major and minor portion. Elongate solar panels are affixed to the major portions to facilitate solar energy collection. The system is designed for use as a functional fence while maximising solar energy capture. Electrical wiring is connected between the solar panels, and a rail may be installed to protect the wiring. The system is suitable for installation in various configurations to optimise solar exposure.

Description

Solar Collecting Fencing SystemField of the Invention

[0001] The present invention relates to a solar collecting fencing system designed to integrate solar energy collection into a functional fence structure. More specifically, the invention concerns a fence panel assembly incorporating solar panels, providing both structural utility and renewable energy generation, particularly suited for boundary fencing applications.Background of the Invention

[0002] In the field of solar energy collection and integration with infrastructure, efforts have been made to incorporate solar panels into functional structures such as fences and building elements. These innovations aim to address the growing demand for renewable energy by enabling dual functionality, where the structure serves its primary purpose while also generating solar energy. However, challenges related to cost-effectiveness, durability, ease of installation, and maintenance persist.

[0003] One example is JP H07133672 A (Fujita Corp, 23 May 1995), which discloses a blind plate integrated with an amorphous solar cell panel. This system seeks to address space constraints by integrating solar panels into structures such as blinds and fences. The blind plates are installed as separate units within a frame, offering a limited degree of modularity. However, the system is costly to manufacture due to the complex integration of amorphous solar cells and the specialised frame components. Installation is also labour-intensive, and despite the modular installation of the blind plates, maintenance remains a challenge, as the panels are fixed in place, requiring substantial disassembly for repair or replacement. Additionally, the reliance on amorphous solar cells, while lightweight and cost-effective, results in lower energy conversion efficiency compared to crystalline solar cells, which affects the overall performance of the system.

[0004] Another prior art reference is CN 208934536 U (Wuhan Rixin Tech Lighting Co Ltd, 16 April 2019), which describes a modular photovoltaic fence. This system focuses on easy maintenance by allowing individual photovoltaic panels to slide intoinstallation cavities within the fence structure. The sliding mechanism enables independent removal and replacement of panels without disturbing adjacent units. While this design addresses the challenge of maintenance, the complexity of the modular system may increase initial installation costs, and there may be concerns about the durability of the sliding components in outdoor environments.

[0005] Although these prior art solutions offer improvements in certain areas, they still leave key issues unresolved. JP H07133672 A provides space-efficient integration but lacks flexibility in maintenance, while CN 208934536 U introduces modularity but raises concerns about cost and durability. Therefore, there is a continuing need for advancements that optimise energy efficiency, durability, and ease of installation, while also facilitating straightforward maintenance, particularly in boundary fencing applications where solar energy collection needs to be maximised without compromising the structure's primary utility.

[0006] There remains a need for a solution that addresses the limitations of prior art systems by offering improved cost-effectiveness, ease of installation, and enhanced durability, while also facilitating efficient solar energy collection. Additionally, such a solution should simplify maintenance and replacement processes without compromising the structural utility or increasing complexity.

[0007] It is to be understood that, if any prior art information is referred to herein, such reference does not constitute an admission that the information forms part of the common general knowledge in the art.Summary of the Disclosure

[0008] The present specification describes a solar collecting fencing system featuring a fence panel assembly, vertically installed and formed from a single metal sheet, shaped to include contoured sections. This structure allows for the secure attachment of elongate solar panels on the major portions of the contoured sections, creating an efficient, integrated system for solar energy collection. The design offers a low-cost, durable solution suitable for use in common boundary fencing, particularly in regions where metal fencing is widely utilised, such as Australia.

[0009] The use of a single-piece metal sheet, preferably shaped by pressing, simplifies the manufacturing process and reduces costs while ensuring structural integrity. The contoured sections provide both mechanical strength and an optimal surface for mounting solar panels. The arrangement of the panels, which can be aligned to follow the sun's trajectory, enhances solar exposure, thereby maximising energy collection throughout the day. The flexibility in installation configurations — whether horizontally or vertically — allows for adaptation to different site conditions, ensuring that the system can be tailored to specific solar exposure needs.

[0010] Additionally, the integration of electrical wiring and connection plugs within the assembly simplifies electrical connectivity between multiple panels, enabling the system to easily scale for larger installations. The system's ability to function as a standard boundary fence, while also serving as a renewable energy source, combines functionality and sustainability in a cost-effective and efficient manner. The durable materials and streamlined design ensure long-term performance, making the system well-suited to a range of applications in both residential and commercial settings.

[0011] According to one aspect, there is provided a solar collecting fencing system comprising a fence panel assembly, wherein the fence panel assembly includes a metal sheet formed as a single piece, the metal sheet being shaped to define a series of contoured sections. In cross-section, each contoured section has a major portion and a minor portion, and a series of elongate solar panels are affixed to the respective major portions, allowing for efficient solar energy collection.

[0012] In accordance with an embodiment, the minor portions may be pitched at a greater angle than the major portions with respect to a cross-sectional plane, which can improve the structural rigidity of the panel and enhance the positioning of the solar panels for optimal sun exposure.

[0013] Preferably, the fence panel assembly is installed with the contoured sections horizontally, with the major portions and elongate solar panels facing upwardly. This configuration ensures that the solar panels are positioned to receive maximum sunlight, especially when aligned with the trajectory of the sun. In accordance with another embodiment, the system may be installed to predominantly align with an east-west axis, which allows the panels to capture sunlight throughout the day as it moves from east to west.

[0014] Optionally, the fence panel assembly may be installed with the contoured sections vertically, which may be preferable in certain installation environments where vertical alignment improves sun exposure or site-specific constraints exist. In a preferable embodiment, the metal sheet may be installed with the major portions facing a solar trajectory. This ensures that the solar panels are optimally positioned to capture the maximum amount of solar energy. The elongate solar panels may be affixed to respective major portions on both sides of the metal sheet, allowing for the collection of sunlight from both morning and afternoon sun exposure. This feature enhances energy generation throughout the day. The system may be installed to predominantly align with a north-south axis, further improving energy collection by ensuring consistent solar panel orientation relative to the sun’s movement.

[0015] The fence panel assembly may be installed as a boundary fence, with a first boundary section having the contoured sections installed horizontally and a second boundary section installed with the contoured sections vertically. The first boundary section may be installed predominantly along an east-west axis with the contoured sections vertically aligned, while the second boundary section may be predominantly aligned along a north-south axis with horizontally installed contoured sections. This arrangement maximises solar exposure and energy collection across different orientations of the boundary fence sections.

[0016] Optionally, electrical wiring may be connected between respective terminals of the elongate solar panels at one end of the contoured sections, allowing for the efficient transfer of electrical energy from the solar panels.

[0017] In a further embodiment, the electrical wiring may include connection plugs for the interconnection of fence panel assemblies in series, which allows for easy installation and scalability of the system across larger boundary areas.

[0018] Preferably, a rail is be installed along the end of the contoured sections, with the rail shaped to define an interior in which the electrical wiring is installed. This feature protects the wiring from environmental damage and enhances the overalldurability of the system. In another embodiment, the rail may be shaped from a single piece of metal, providing structural integrity and ease of manufacturing. The rail may be installed along the top of the fence panel assembly when the contoured sections are installed vertically, ensuring that the wiring remains protected and accessible.

[0019] In an optional embodiment, the fencing system may include a support structure comprising a plurality of vertical posts, wherein a single fence panel assembly is installed between adjacent posts. This design provides structural stability while maintaining the flexibility of the solar collection system.

[0020] Other aspects of the invention are also disclosed.Brief Description of the Drawings

[0021] Notwithstanding any other forms which may fall within the scope of the present invention, preferred embodiments of the disclosure will now be described, by way of example only, with reference to the accompanying drawings in which:

[0022] Figure 1 shows a cross-sectional view of a fence panel assembly of a solar collecting fencing system.

[0023] Figure 2 shows an embodiment wherein solar panels are installed on both sides of the fence panel assembly.

[0024] Figure 3 shows a perspective view of the fence panel assembly.

[0025] Figure 4 shows a side view of the fence panel assembly with contoured sections thereof installed horizontally.

[0026] Figure 5 shows a section of the fencing system with a fence panel assembly having contoured sections installed vertically.

[0027] Figure 6 shows a section of the fencing system with a fence panel assembly having contoured sections installed horizontally.

[0028] Figure 7 shows installation of the fencing system as a boundary fence.

[0029] Figure 8 shows the fencing system comprising a support structure of vertical posts with fence panel assemblies installed between them.

[0030] Figure 9 shows an end view of a fence section.

[0031] Figure 10 shows a top rail installed along the fence section .Description of Embodiments

[0032] Figure 8 illustrates a solar collecting fencing system 100, which comprises a support system 101 consisting of vertical posts 102 embedded in foundations 103 and supporting a plurality of fence panel assemblies 104 between them. These posts provide a robust structural framework suitable for securing the fencing panels in various environments, including residential, commercial, and rural properties where metallic fencing is commonly used, such as in Australia. The system offers a cost- effective solution for integrating solar power generation into standard fencing installations.

[0033] Figure 1 shows the fence panel assembly 104 in greater detail. The assembly includes a metal sheet 105, formed as a single piece, which may be made from materials commonly used for fencing, such as galvanised steel, aluminium, or other corrosion-resistant metals. Sheet steel treated with protective coatings, such as powder coating, is particularly suitable, as it enhances durability and resistance to environmental factors such as rust and UV degradation. The metal sheet 105 may be shaped using an industrial press to define a series of parallel contoured sections 106. This design provides structural rigidity and an optimal surface for mounting solar panels.

[0034] Each contoured section 106, as shown in the cross-sectional view of Figure 1 , comprises a major portion 107A and a minor portion 107B. The elongate solar panels 108 are affixed to the major portions 107A, which offer a large surface area ideal for securing the panels. The solar panels 108 may utilise monocrystalline or polycrystalline photovoltaic cells, depending on the balance between cost and efficiency. Monocrystalline cells are preferable due to their higher efficiency, though polycrystalline cells provide a more economical alternative with lower upfront costs.

[0035] The solar panels 108 may be separate, self-contained units that can be sourced commercially, making them cost-effective and readily available. These panels 108 can therefore be affixed to the major portions 107A of the contoured sections without requiring further integration between the solar panel components and the fence structure. This independent configuration allows for flexibility ininstallation and maintenance. The solar panels 108 can be easily secured to the major portions using various methods, such as industrial-grade backing adhesives that provide a quick and secure bond. Alternatively, mechanical fasteners, such as screws or rivets, can be used to attach the panels to the metal sheet 105, offering a durable and permanent fixture. In some embodiments, clips or brackets may also be employed, allowing for rapid installation and easy replacement if necessary. These options facilitate a fast and straightforward assembly process, reducing installation time and costs while ensuring the panels are securely fixed to the fence structure.

[0036] The minor portions 107B are pitched at a steeper angle compared to the major portions 107A. According to Figure 4, the minor portions 107B are approximately 90° to the cross-sectional plane 109, enhancing the panel assembly’s strength and aiding in managing wind loads.

[0037] Figure 6 depicts the fence panel assembly 104 with the contoured sections 106 installed horizontally. The major portions 107A, with the solar panels 108 affixed to them, face upwards, maximising the exposure to solar radiation 1 1 1 . Figures 3 and 4 provide further detail on this configuration, showing how the upward-facing major portions 107A are optimally positioned to capture sunlight throughout the day, thus enhancing solar energy collection efficiency.

[0038] In another embodiment, a pair of metal sheets 105 can be arranged back-to- back within the fence panel assembly 104, with each metal sheet 105 having solar panels 108 affixed to the major portions 107A. This configuration allows the solar panels 108 on both metal sheets to face upwardly, thereby maximising solar energy collection from both the morning and afternoon sun. The back-to-back arrangement ensures that one set of solar panels 108 captures sunlight in the earlier part of the day, while the other set continues to collect solar energy as the sun moves across the sky. This dual-sided design optimises the system’s overall efficiency, increasing the total energy harvested throughout the day without requiring additional fence structures. The two metal sheets 105 can be secured together by mechanical fasteners or a bonding agent, ensuring structural integrity while allowing both sets of panels to operate independently, yet simultaneously, in their solar collection.

[0039] Figure 5 shows an alternative arrangement where the contoured sections 106 are installed vertically. This configuration may be advantageous in scenarios where a vertical installation improves solar exposure, or site-specific conditions make horizontal alignment impractical.

[0040] In Figure 2, the panel assembly 104 is preferably installed with the major portions 107A predominantly aligned with the solar trajectory 112. In this embodiment, elongate solar panels 108 are affixed on both sides of the metal sheet105, allowing them to capture sunlight from different angles. The advantage of this arrangement is that a single metal sheet 105 may be installed, as opposed to the back-to-back arrangement described for the horizontally installed contoured sections106. This simplifies the structure while still enabling the panels to collect morning sun exposure 11 1 A and afternoon sun exposure 1 11 B, thereby improving overall energy yield with a more streamlined installation.

[0041] The preferred installation of the panel assembly 104 is along a north-south axis, as shown in Figure 2. This orientation maximises solar panel exposure to sunlight throughout the day, following the natural east-west solar trajectory 112, ensuring consistent and optimal solar radiation 11 1 collection.

[0042] Figure 7 depicts the fencing system 100 installed as a boundary fence 112 surrounding a property 1 13. The boundary fence 112 may be aligned with a first section 1 12A facing the east-west axis, where the contoured sections 106 are installed vertically, and solar panels 108 are affixed on both sides to collect both morning and afternoon solar radiation. A second section 112B may be aligned along the north-south axis, with the contoured sections 106 installed horizontally. In this second section, the solar panels 108 may be installed on just one side of the fence panel assembly 104, thereby maximising solar exposure on the side of the fence that is oriented toward the sun. This configuration allows for flexibility in optimising solar collection depending on the orientation of the fence sections.

[0043] Figure 3 shows that electrical wiring 1 15 may be connected between the positive and negative terminals of each elongate solar panel 108, facilitating efficient power transmission. Each panel assembly 104 may have its own inverter 116, asdepicted in Figure 9, which converts the direct current (DC) generated by the solar panels into alternating current (AC), suitable for household or grid use. The inclusion of individual inverters enhances power conversion efficiency and reduces energy loss.

[0044] Figures 9 and 10 illustrate an embodiment where a rail 1 16 is installed at the ends of the contoured sections 106. This rail 1 16 defines an interior cavity 1 17 through which the electrical wiring 1 15 is routed, protecting the wiring from environmental factors and improving the aesthetics of the system. The rail 1 16 is preferably formed and shaped from a single piece of metal and may be installed along the top or bottom of vertically aligned contoured sections or along the sides of horizontally aligned sections, providing installation flexibility.

[0045] According to the arrangement of Figure 9, a rail 1 16 is installed along top and bottom edges of the fence panel assembly, thereby providing flexural support for the metal sheet 105 and the ability to accommodate wiring along both top and bottom edges thereof. Furthermore, ends of the panels 108 can be concealed within interiors of their respective rails 1 16.

[0046] As shown in Figure 3, the electrical wiring 1 15 may include interconnection plugs 1 19, allowing multiple fence panel assemblies 104 to be connected together. In Figure 7, a series of interconnected panel assemblies 104 can direct power to an electrical junction box 1 17 or battery storage unit 1 18, enabling harvested solar energy to be stored or used directly.

[0047] An exemplary method of installing the solar collecting fencing system 100 involves first preparing the foundation 103 and securely embedding vertical posts 102 at regular intervals to provide a stable framework for the fence panel assemblies 104. The pre-fabricated panel assemblies 104 are then mounted between the vertical posts, with the contoured sections 106 aligned either horizontally or vertically, depending on the installation site. Electrical wiring 1 15 is connected between the terminals of the solar panels 108, and the panels 104 are linked using interconnection plugs 1 19. The wiring is routed through the rail 1 16 to protect it from environmentaldamage. The power generated is transmitted to a battery storage unit 1 18 or directly to a household electrical junction box for conditioning and use.

[0048] The technical advantages of this system are numerous. The use of a singlepiece metal sheet 105 with affixed solar panels 108 provides a robust and low-cost solution that integrates energy harvesting into standard boundary fencing. The system is adaptable for various installation configurations, allowing the fence panel assemblies to be oriented for optimal solar exposure. Additionally, the concealed electrical wiring and individual inverters 1 16 improve the system's overall efficiency and aesthetic appeal, while the use of durable materials ensures longevity in harsh environments. The combination of these features creates a fencing system that not only serves a functional purpose but also generates renewable energy in a cost- effective and efficient manner.

[0049] The foregoing description, for purposes of explanation, used specific nomenclature to provide a thorough understanding of the invention. However, it will be apparent to one skilled in the art that specific details are not required in order to practise the invention. Thus, the foregoing descriptions of specific embodiments of the invention are presented for purposes of illustration and description. They are not intended to be exhaustive or to limit the invention to the precise forms disclosed as obviously many modifications and variations are possible in view of the above teachings. The embodiments were chosen and described in order to best explain the principles of the invention and its practical applications, thereby enabling others skilled in the art to best utilize the invention and various embodiments with various modifications as are suited to the particular use contemplated. It is intended that the following claims and their equivalents define the scope of the invention.

Claims

Claims1 . A solar collecting fencing system comprising: a fence panel assembly installed vertically, wherein the fence panel assembly comprises a metal sheet formed as one piece, and wherein the metal sheet is shaped to define a series of contoured sections, wherein, in cross-section, each contoured section defines a major portion and a minor portion, and wherein the assembly further comprises a series of elongate solar panels affixed on respective major portions.

2. The solar collecting fencing system according to claim 1 , wherein the minor portions are pitched at a greater angle than the major portions with respect to a cross-sectional plane.

3. The solar collecting fencing system according to claim 1 , wherein the fence panel assembly is installed with the contoured sections horizontally and with the major portions and elongate solar panels facing upwardly.

4. The solar collecting fencing system according to claim 3, wherein the system is installed to predominantly align with an east-west axis.

5. The solar collecting fencing system according to claim 1 , wherein the fence panel assembly is installed with the contoured sections vertically.

6. The solar collecting fencing system according to claim 5, wherein the metal sheet is installed with the major portions facing a solar trajectory.

7. The solar collecting fencing system according to claim 6, wherein elongate solar panels are installed on respective major portions on both sides of the metal sheet.

8. The solar collecting fencing system according to claim 3, wherein the fence panel assembly comprises a pair of metal sheets installed back-to-back, with elongate solarpanels affixed to the major portions of each metal sheet, such that the elongate solar panels on both metal sheets face upwardly to collect solar energy from both morning and afternoon sun exposure.

9. The solar collecting fencing system according to claim 5, wherein the system is installed to predominantly align with a north-south axis.

10. The solar collecting fencing system according to claim 1 , wherein the fence panel assembly is installed as a boundary fence having a first boundary section installed with the contoured sections vertically and a second boundary section installed with the contoured sections horizontally.1 1 . The solar collecting fencing system according to claim 10, wherein the first boundary section is installed predominantly along a north-south axis and solar panels are affixed on both sides of the metal sheet to capture both morning and afternoon solar radiation.

12. The solar collecting fencing system according to claim 10, wherein the second boundary section is installed predominantly along an east-west axis and the solar panels are affixed only on one side of the metal sheet to maximise solar exposure on that side of the fence panel assembly.

13. The solar collecting fencing system according to claim 1 , wherein electrical wiring is connected between respective terminals of the elongate solar panels at one end of the contoured sections.

14. The solar collecting fencing system according to claim 13, wherein the electrical wiring defines connection plugs for interconnection of fence panel assemblies in series.

15. The solar collecting fencing system according to claim 13, wherein a rail is installed along the end of the contoured sections, the rail shaped to define an interior, and wherein the electrical wiring is installed within the interior.

16. The solar collecting fencing system according to claim 15, wherein the rail is shaped from a single piece of metal to define the interior.

17. The solar collecting fencing system according to claim 5, wherein the rail is installed along a top of the fence panel assembly.

18. The solar collecting fencing system according to claim 1 5, wherein a rail is installed along both the top and bottom edges of the fence panel assembly.

19. The solar collecting fencing system according to claim 18, wherein the ends of the elongate solar panels are concealed within the interiors of the respective rails installed along the top and bottom edges.

20. The solar collecting fencing system according to claim 1 , wherein the fencing system comprises a support structure comprising a plurality of vertical posts and wherein a single fence panel assembly is installed between adjacent posts.21 . A method of installing a solar collecting fencing system according to claim 1 , the method comprising: installing a fence panel assembly between a plurality of vertical posts embedded in a foundation, the fence panel assembly comprising a metal sheet shaped to define a series of contoured sections, each contoured section having a major portion and a minor portion, and a series of elongate solar panels affixed on respective major portions; and connecting electrical wiring between respective terminals of the elongate solar panels to provide electrical output.

22. The method according to claim 21 , further comprising installing the fence panel assembly with the contoured sections horizontally and with the major portions and elongate solar panels facing upwardly.

23. The method according to claim 21 , further comprising installing the fence panel assembly with the contoured sections vertically.

24. The method according to claim 23, further comprising orienting the fence panel assembly such that the major portions face a solar trajectory to maximise solar energy collection.

25. The method according to claim 23, further comprising installing elongate solar panels on respective major portions on both sides of the metal sheet.

26. The method according to claim 22, further comprising installing the fence panel assembly as a pair of metal sheets installed back-to-back, with the solar panels affixed to the major portions of each metal sheet, such that the solar panels on both metal sheets face upwardly to collect solar energy from both morning and afternoon sun exposure.

27. The method according to claim 25, further comprising installing the fence panel assembly along a predominantly north-south axis.

28. The method according to claim 21 , further comprising installing the fence panel assembly as a boundary fence having a first boundary section installed with the contoured sections vertically and a second boundary section installed with the contoured sections horizontally.

29. The method according to claim 28, further comprising installing the first boundary section predominantly along a north-south axis and affixing solar panels on both sides of the metal sheet to capture both morning and afternoon solar radiation.

30. The method according to claim 28, further comprising installing the second boundary section predominantly along an east-west axis and affixing solar panels on only one side of the metal sheet to maximise solar exposure on that side of the fence panel assembly.

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