Bonded Photovoltaic Roofing Shingles for Easier Roof Installation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Traditional rooftop photovoltaic systems require significant installation labor and specialized tools, making them inefficient and labor-intensive, similar to traditional roofing shingle installations.
Innovation Solution
Integration of photovoltaic modules with roofing shingles using a bonding process that achieves a bond strength of 5 N/mm to 60 N/mm and a mass per unit area of 0.5 lb per square foot to 5 lbs per square foot, allowing for easier installation similar to standard roofing shingles, using adhesives and fasteners for affixing to the roof.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Use of energy by moving object
If traditional rooftop PV systems are installed, then photovoltaic energy generation is achieved, but installation labor and complexity increase significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the PV module with roofing shingles into a single integrated unit. The PV module is bonded to the rear surface of the shingle, creating a unified component that performs both roofing and energy generation functions simultaneously, eliminating the need for separate PV installation processes
Solution Approach 2:
The integrated PV shingle serves multiple functions: it provides roofing protection, aesthetic appearance, and photovoltaic energy generation. This multi-functional design allows a single component to replace both traditional roofing materials and separate PV panels, simplifying installation procedures
2Device complexity
If PV modules are integrated with roofing shingles, then installation complexity is reduced, but bond strength requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The PV module is pre-bonded to the roofing shingle during manufacturing, creating a pre-assembled integrated unit. This preliminary bonding action ensures proper alignment and bond strength before installation, eliminating the need for complex field assembly and reducing installation complexity
Solution Approach 2:
A bonding agent or adhesive layer is introduced as an intermediary between the PV module and roofing shingle. This intermediary material facilitates strong adhesion while accommodating thermal expansion differences and maintaining electrical isolation, thereby achieving required bond strength without compromising installation simplicity
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
The integrated photovoltaic roofing shingles reduce installation labor and complexity by mimicking standard roofing shingle installation methods, enhancing efficiency and ease of installation while maintaining effective bond strength and mass distribution.
Implementation Method 1
the roofing shingle is bonded to the PV module by at least one adhesive
Data Source
AI summary
Some embodiments of the present disclosure relate to an integrated photovoltaic (PV) roofing shingle comprising a photovoltaic (PV) module and a roofing shingle. In some embodiments, the roofing shingle is bonded to the PV module. In some embodiments, a bond strength between the roofing shingle and the PV module is from 5 N/mm to 60 N/mm tested according to ASTM D1876. In some embodiments, the integrated PV roofing shingle has a mass per unit area of 0.5 lb per square foot to 5 lbs per square foot. Methods, systems, and kits including the integrated PV roofing shingle are also disclosed.