Solar panel fence and method of assembling the same

Abstract

A fencing system includes a first fence post and a second fence post spaced apart from one another, and at least one solar panel positioned between the first and second fence posts such that the at least one solar panel functions as a privacy panel. The solar panel is secured directly to the fence posts and may be retained by one or more rails including a bottom rail, a top rail, and optional side rails, each of which may include a channel for receiving an edge of the solar panel. Anchoring structures embedded in the ground may support the fence posts. Electrical wiring coupled to the solar panel may pass through the fence posts for connection to adjacent panels or electrical equipment, and a cable management cover may be provided. Methods of assembling the fencing system are also disclosed.

Description

[0001] SOLAR PANEL FENCE AND METHOD OF ASSEMBLING THE SAME

[0002] PRIORITY

[0003] The present application is related to, and claims the priority benefit of, U. S. provisional patent application serial no. 63 / 755,408, filed February 7, 2025, the contents of which are incorporated herein directly and by reference in their entirety.

[0004] BACKGROUND

[0005] Field of the Invention

[0006] This disclosure relates generally to fencing, and more particularly to fencing wherein the privacy panels between posts are solar panels for generating electricity.

[0007] Description of the Related Art

[0008] Privacy fences have a long history of providing security, seclusion, and aesthetic appeal to residential and commercial properties. Early civilizations, such as the Egyptians and Romans, used walls and wooden barriers to enclose courtyards and homes, ensuring privacy and protection from intruders. In medieval Europe, wattle -and-daub fences and hedgerows served similar purposes, creating natural and durable boundaries. As urbanization increased, particularly during the Industrial Revolution, privacy fences became more common in residential areas, with wooden, brick, and wrought iron designs defining property lines and enhancing security. Today, privacy fences are made from a variety of materials, including wood, vinyl, composite, and metal, offering homeowners protection from noise, wind, and unwanted visibility. They are widely used to create personal outdoor spaces, improve curb appeal, and enhance property value while also serving functional roles in businesses, schools, and public spaces.

[0009] Solar panels have become an increasingly popular choice for residential energy production, offering homeowners a sustainable way to reduce electricity costs and environmental impact. The technology behind solar power dates back to the 19th century when scientists first discovered the photovoltaic effect, but it wasn’t until the 1950s that silicon-based solar cells became practical for energy generation. Initially used in space exploration, solar panels gradually became more affordable and efficient, leading to widespread adoption in homes. Today, residential solar panels are used to generate electricity, power home appliances, and even charge electric vehicles. Many homeowners integrate solar energy systems with battery storage to provide backup power during outages, while net metering programs allowexcess electricity to be fed back into the grid, reducing energy bills. Advances in solar technology, including high-efficiency panels and smart home integration, continue to make solar power an attractive investment, increasing property value and promoting energy independence.

[0010] While residential solar panels offer many benefits, there are also some drawbacks. To generate enough electricity for a home, a significant amount of roof space is needed. Homes with small or shaded roofs may not be ideal candidates for solar panels. Aesthetics of solar panels installed on the roof or other locations in a residential setting is also a concern. Some homeowners associations (HOAs) and communities have restrictions on solar panel installations due to appearance concerns, which can limit installation options.

[0011] Combining a privacy fence with solar panels offers homeowners a unique way to enhance both security and energy efficiency. A solar-powered privacy fence can serve multiple functions, providing seclusion from neighbors while generating renewable electricity. By integrating solar panels into the fence design, homeowners can maximize solar energy collection, especially in cases where the roof may not be ideal for panel installation due to shading or limited space. These solar fences can be used to power outdoor lighting, security cameras, or even contribute energy to the home’s main electrical system, reducing reliance on the grid. Additionally, they offer an aesthetically pleasing and space-efficient alternative to traditional ground-mounted solar panels. With advancements in solar technology and battery storage, a solar privacy fence can further increase energy independence, lower utility bills, and enhance property value while maintaining a sleek and functional outdoor space.

[0012] BRIEF SUMMARY

[0013] It is therefore an object of the present disclosure to provide a privacy fence that has solar panels positioned between posts to collect solar power from the sun to be used by the homeowner to provide primary or supplemental power to the home.

[0014] The present disclosure meets these objects by providing a solar panel fence comprising a plurality of sections, with each section including solar panels, fence posts, a bottom rail, a top rail, and side rails.

[0015] The present disclosure includes disclosure of a fencing system, comprising a first fence post and a second fence post spaced apart from one another, and at least one solar panel positioned between the first and second fence posts, wherein the at least one solar panel is attached to the first fence post and the second fence post such that the at least one solar panel is positioned and secured between the first and second fence posts.The present disclosure includes disclosure of a fencing system, wherein the at least one solar panel comprises a first solar panel and a second solar panel arranged side-by-side between the first and second fence posts.

[0016] The present disclosure includes disclosure of a fencing system, wherein the first solar panel and the second solar panel are attached to one another by one or more fasteners.

[0017] The present disclosure includes disclosure of a fencing system, further comprising a first side rail coupled to the first fence post and a second side rail coupled to the second fence post, wherein the at least one solar panel is received by the first side rail and the second side rail.

[0018] The present disclosure includes disclosure of a fencing system, wherein each of the first side rail and the second side rail comprises an elongated channel having an opening that receives a portion of the at least one solar panel.

[0019] The present disclosure includes disclosure of a fencing system, further comprising a bottom rail extending between the first fence post and the second fence post, wherein the at least one solar panel has a bottom edge received by the bottom rail.

[0020] The present disclosure includes disclosure of a fencing system, wherein the bottom rail comprises an elongated channel having an opening that receives the bottom edge of the at least one solar panel.

[0021] The present disclosure includes disclosure of a fencing system, further comprising a top rail extending between the first fence post and the second fence post, wherein the at least one solar panel has a top edge received by the top rail.

[0022] The present disclosure includes disclosure of a fencing system, wherein the top rail comprises an elongated channel having an opening that receives the top edge of the at least one solar panel.

[0023] The present disclosure includes disclosure of a fencing system, further comprising a botom rail and a top rail extending between the first fence post and the second fence post, wherein the at least one solar panel is retained between the bottom rail and the top rail.

[0024] The present disclosure includes disclosure of a fencing system, wherein ends of at least one of the botom rail or the top rail are received within corresponding apertures formed in the first fence post and the second fence post.

[0025] The present disclosure includes disclosure of a fencing system, wherein the at least one solar panel is attached to the first fence post and the second fence post by an adhesive material.The present disclosure includes disclosure of a fencing system, wherein the at least one solar panel is attached to at least one of the first fence post or the second fence post using fasteners.

[0026] The present disclosure includes disclosure of a fencing system, wherein the first fence post and the second fence post are positioned over anchoring structures embedded at least partially within the ground.

[0027] The present disclosure includes disclosure of a fencing system, wherein the anchoring structures each have at least one post stiffener coupled thereto.

[0028] The present disclosure includes disclosure of a fencing system, wherein the bottom rail has one or more drain openings defined therein to allow moisture to drain from the fencing system.

[0029] The present disclosure includes disclosure of a fencing system, further comprising electrical wiring coupled to the at least one solar panel, wherein the electrical wiring passes through an opening in at least one of the first fence post or the second fence post to connect the at least one solar panel to an adjacent solar panel or to electrical equipment.

[0030] The present disclosure includes disclosure of a fencing system, further comprising a cable management cover positioned over at least a portion of the electrical wiring located between the first fence post and the second fence post.

[0031] The present disclosure includes disclosure of a method of assembling a solar panel fence, comprising positioning a first fence post and a second fence post spaced apart from one another, positioning at least one solar panel between the first fence post and the second fence post, and attaching the at least one solar panel to the first fence post and the second fence post such that the at least one solar panel forms a privacy panel between the first fence post and the second fence post.

[0032] The present disclosure includes disclosure of a method of assembling a solar panel fence, further comprising coupling at least one rail between the first fence post and the second fence post, receiving an edge of the at least one solar panel in an opening of the at least one rail, and securing the at least one rail to the first fence post and the second fence post.

[0033] These and other objects, features and advantages of the present disclosure will become apparent from a review of the following drawings and detailed description of the preferred embodiments of the disclosure.BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0034] The disclosed embodiments and other features, advantages, and disclosures contained herein, and the matter of attaining them, will become apparent and the present disclosure will be beter understood by reference to the following description of various exemplary embodiments of the present disclosure taken in conjunction with the accompanying drawings, wherein:

[0035] FIG. 1 is a front schematic view of a solar panel fence section, according to at least one embodiment of the disclosure.

[0036] FIG. 2 is a top schematic view of the solar panel fence section shown in FIG. 1, according to at least one embodiment of the disclosure.

[0037] FIG. 3 is a cross-section view of a u-channel of the solar panel fence section shown in FIG. 1 and FIG. 2, according to at least one embodiment of the disclosure.

[0038] FIG. 4 is perspective view of a fence post and anchoring pipe of the solar panel fence section shown in FIG. 1, shown prior to assembly, according to at least one embodiment of the disclosure.

[0039] FIG. 5 is a perspective view of the connection between a fence post and bottom rail of the solar panel fence section shown in FIG. 1, according to at least one embodiment of the disclosure.

[0040] FIG. 6 is a perspective view of a solar panel fence including a plurality of solar panel fence sections shown in FIG. 1 during the assembly process, according to at least one embodiment of the disclosure.

[0041] FIG. 7 is a perspective view of the connection between a post, solar panel and top rail, according to at least one embodiment of the disclosure.

[0042] As such, an overview of the features, functions and / or configurations of the components depicted in the various figures will now be presented. It should be appreciated that not all of the features of the components of the figures are necessarily described and some of these nondiscussed features (as well as discussed features) are inherent from the figures themselves. Other non-discussed features may be inherent in component geometry and / or configuration. Furthermore, wherever feasible and convenient, like reference numerals are used in the figures and the description to refer to the same or like parts or steps. The figures are in a simplified form and not to precise scale.DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0043] For the purposes of promoting an understanding of the principles of the embodiments described herein, reference is now made to the drawings and descriptions in the following written specification. No limitation to the scope of the subject matter is intended by the references. This disclosure also includes any alterations and modifications to the illustrated embodiments and includes further applications of the principles of the described embodiments as would normally occur to one skilled in the art to which this document pertains.

[0044] Solar panel fences of the present disclosure are configured to not only provide barriers / privacy, but also to collect sunlight and convert the sunlight to electricity, for use with a home, a business, or other potential electrical use.

[0045] As best shown in FIG. 1, an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure comprises a solar panel fence section 10 that can include one or more solar panels Ila, lib, fence posts 12a, 12b, and optionally a bottom rail 13, a top rail 14 and side rails 15a, 15b. According to the embodiment shown in FIG. 1, two solar panels Ila, 11b are located side-by-side between adjacent fence posts 12a, 12b, whereby said solar panels Ila, 11b are secured to one another by a plurality of self-tapping screws (exemplary fasteners 16). It is within this scope of the present disclosure to use a single solar panel between adjacent posts, or any number of solar panels that are needed or desired depending on the specific dimensions of the solar panels 1 la, 1 lb, etc., and the distance between adjacent fence posts 12a, 12b. The bottom rail 13, top rail 14 and side rails 15a, 15b can comprise components having a u-channel 22 as shown in FIG.

[0046] 3, having an opening 23 for receiving edges of the solar panels Ila, I lb therein to secure the panels I la, lib in place. The dimensions of the u-channel 22 and the size of the opening 23 can be adjusted to accommodate the dimensions of the solar panels Ila, lib.

[0047] The solar panel fence section 10 can be assembled by securing the fence posts 12a, I2b to the ground a selected distance apart from one another that is chosen to accommodate the combined width of the single solar panel Ila, two solar panels Ila, l ib, or even additional solar panels. The fence posts 12a, 12b can be formed from any material that is suitable to provide rigidity and support for the solar panels Il, lib. Preferably, the fence posts 12a, 12b, bottom rail 13, top rail 14 and side rails 15a, 15b are formed of 6061-T6 Aluminum tubing or some other lightweight, rust-resistant material, including, but not limited to, plastic material or other metal material. An anchoring structure 17a, 17b, such as a galvanized steel pipe or wood or other material can be driven into the ground at the locations selected for the fence posts 12a, 12b, in at least one embodiment. The anchoring structures 17a, 17b have outer dimensions thatare slightly smaller than the inner dimensions of the fence posts 12a, 12b so that, once the anchoring structures 17a, 17b are securely placed in the ground, the fence posts 12a, 12b can be slid over anchoring structures 17a, 17b. As best shown in FIG. 1 and FIG. 4, heavy duty post stiffeners 18a, 18b can be inserted around the anchoring structures 17a, 17b at or near the top of each anchoring structure 17 a, 17b and near the point where each anchoring structure 17a, 17b meets the ground to provide additional stiffness, support and rigidity.

[0048] Next, as shown in FIG. 5 and FIG. 6, the bottom rail 13 is installed between the two fence posts 12a, 12b at a location near the ground. Apertures 24 may be defined within fence posts 12a, 12b at desired locations, with the apertures 24 having dimensions that correspond to the outer dimensions of the bottom rail 13, such that ends of the bottom rail 13 are inserted into the lower apertures 24 in each post 12a, 12b. As shown in FIG. 5, the bottom rail 13 may have (but is not required to have) one or more of drain openings 25 defined therein to allow rainwater and moisture to escape the panel assembly 10.

[0049] Next, the side rails 15a, 15b, should it be desired to use side rails 15a, 15b, can be secured to the fence posts 12a, 12b. Alternatively, as shown in FIG. 7, the side rails can be omitted and the solar panels 1 la, 1 lb can be secured to the fence posts 12a, 12b by an adhesive caulking material 19 or other fasteners 16. The edges of the solar panels Ila, 11b can be inserted into the u-channel 22 openings 23 of the bottom rail 13 and side rails 15a, 15b. Fasteners 16 can then be inserted through the panels 11 a, lib, rails 13, 15a, 15b and fence posts 12a, 12b at various locations as shown in FIG. 1 to secure the panels to the panel assembly.

[0050] With the solar panels 1 la, 1 lb in place, the top rail 14 can then be installed should it be desired to use a top rail 14. The top rail 14 is installed in a manner similar to that of the bottom rail 13. An aperture 24 may be provided in the fence posts 12a, 12b at the desired location, with the aperture 24 having dimensions that correspond to the outer dimensions of the top rail 14, such that ends of the top rail 14 are inserted into the upper apertures 24 in each post 12a, 12b. The top edge of the solar panels 1 la, 1 lb is slid into the u-channel 22 opening 23 in the top rail 14 as it is installed. Finally, decorative caps 20a, 20b may be inserted into the top opening 26 of each fence post 12a, 12b or otherwise positioned on top of fence posts 12a, 12b to prevent water from entering into the fence posts 12a, 12b and to provide a finished appearance.

[0051] The electrical connection of the solar panels Ila, 11b can be made as follows. Most solar panels Ila, lib currently available on the market have the wiring connectors near the middle of the panel Ila, lib and come with an MC4 connector attached. The connector associated with each panel Ila, 1 lb is connected through connecting wiring 27 to the next and previous panel 1 la, 1 lb or to an optimizer that will then connect to the next and previous panelIla, 11b. The connecting wire (generally wiring 27) passes through openings in each fence post 12a, 12b to connect to adjacent on the other side of the post 12a, 12b. A return wire (generally wiring 27) may also run alongside the connecting wiring 27 back to where the fence connects to the house or where a conduit line is run. At that point the wiring 27 may be run through the house to the breaker panel and battery and connect according to code / utility company requirements. A cable management u-channel cover 21 as shown in FIG. 2 may be used to cover the wiring 27, plugs and other components that extend across the solar panels Ila, 11b between adjacent fence posts 12a, 12b. The cable management cover 21 will be positioned where the wires 27 exit the solar panels Ila, lib. The cable management cover 21 prevents persons, animals and the elements from intentionally or accidently disconnecting the wires 27 and also provide a cosmetic covering for the wiring 27, plugs and components.

[0052] While various embodiments of solar panel fences and methods for making and using the same have been described in considerable detail herein, the embodiments are merely offered as non-limiting examples of the disclosure described herein. It will therefore be understood that various changes and modifications may be made, and equivalents may be substituted for elements thereof, without departing from the scope of the present disclosure. The present disclosure is not intended to be exhaustive or limiting with respect to the content thereof.

[0053] Further, in describing representative embodiments, the present disclosure may have presented a method and / or a process as a particular sequence of steps. However, to the extent that the method or process does not rely on the particular order of steps set forth therein, the method or process should not be limited to the particular sequence of steps described, as other sequences of steps may be possible. Therefore, the particular order of the steps disclosed herein should not be construed as limitations of the present disclosure. In addition, disclosure directed to a method and / or process should not be limited to the performance of their steps in the order written. Such sequences may be varied and still remain within the scope of the present disclosure.

Claims

CLAIMS1. A fencing system, comprising:a first fence post and a second fence post spaced apart from one another: and at least one solar panel positioned between the first and second fence posts; wherein the at least one solar panel is attached to the first fence post and the second fence post such that the at least one solar panel is positioned and secured between the first and second fence posts.

2. The fencing system of claim 1, wherein the at least one solar panel comprises a first solar panel and a second solar panel arranged side-by-side between the first and second fence posts.

3. The fencing system of claim 2, wherein the first solar panel and the second solar panel are attached to one another by one or more fasteners.

4. The fencing system of claim 1, further comprising:a first side rail coupled to the first fence post and a second side rail coupled to the second fence post, wherein the at least one solar panel is received by the first side rail and the second side rail.

5. The fencing system of claim 4, wherein each of the first side rail and the second side rail comprises an elongated channel having an opening that receives a portion of the at least one solar panel.

6. The fencing system of claim 1, further comprising:a bottom rail extending between the first fence post and the second fence post, wherein the at least one solar panel has a bottom edge received by the bottom rail.

7. The fencing system of claim 6, wherein the bottom rail comprises an elongated channel having an opening that receives the botom edge of the at least one solar panel.

8. The fencing system of claim 1, further comprising:a top rail extending between the first fence post and the second fence post, wherein the at least one solar panel has a top edge received by the top rail.

9. The fencing system of claim 8, wherein the top rail comprises an elongated channel having an opening that receives the top edge of the at least one solar panel.

10. The fencing system of claim 1, further comprising:a bottom rail and a top rail extending between the first fence post and the second fence post, wherein the at least one solar panel is retained between the bottom rail and the top rail.

11. The fencing system of claim 10, wherein ends of at least one of the bottom rail or the top rail are received within corresponding apertures formed in the first fence post and the second fence post.

12. The fencing system of claim 4, wherein the at least one solar panel is attached to the first fence post and the second fence post by an adhesive material.

13. The fencing system of claim 1, wherein the at least one solar panel is attached to at least one of the first fence post or the second fence post using fasteners.

14. The fencing system of claim 1, wherein the first fence post and the second fence post are positioned over anchoring structures embedded at least partially within the ground.

15. The fencing system of claim 14, wherein the anchoring structures each have at least one post stiffener coupled thereto.

16. The fencing system of claim 6, wherein the bottom rail has one or more drain openings defined therein to allow moisture to drain from the fencing system.

17. The fencing system of claim 1, further comprising electrical wiring coupled to the at least one solar panel, wherein the electrical wiring passes through an opening in at least one of the first fence post or the second fence post to connect the at least one solar panel to an adjacent solar panel or to electrical equipment.

18. The fencing system of claim 17, further comprising a cable management cover positioned over at least a portion of the electrical wiring located between the first fence post and the second fence post.

19. A method of assembling a solar panel fence, comprising:positioning a first fence post and a second fence post spaced apart from one another;positioning at least one solar panel between the first fence post and the second fence post; andattaching the at least one solar panel to the first fence post and the second fence post such that the at least one solar panel forms a privacy panel between the first fence post and the second fence post.

20. The method of claim 19, further comprising:coupling at least one rail between the first fence post and the second fence post; receiving an edge of the at least one solar panel in an opening of the at least one rail; andsecuring the at least one rail to the first fence post and the second fence post.

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