Building-Integrated Solar Power Unit With Embedded Power Components
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing solar energy harvesting systems are not architecturally integrated, aesthetically considered, and require cumbersome equipment, with components like batteries and inverters not being integrated into the product, leading to complicated wiring configurations and lack of structural integration.
Innovation Solution
A solar power unit comprising a frame and front cover that can be attached to building blocks, with integrated solar panels, batteries, and inverters, providing a power outlet and serving as both a renewable energy source and structural exterior finish, capable of withstanding environmental forces.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of manufacture
If solar panels are mounted on top of structural building materials, then the building structure is maintained, but the solar array is far removed from the architecture and requires clumsy equipment that is neither integrated nor aesthetically considered
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the solar panel assembly with the building block by integrating the solar panel, frame, and building block into a single unified structure. The frame is attached to the building block and the solar panel is mounted on the frame, creating an integrated assembly that eliminates separate mounting equipment and achieves architectural integration.
Solution Approach 2:
The building block serves multiple functions: it provides structural support, houses the solar panel assembly, and acts as the exterior finish material. This multi-functionality eliminates the need for separate structural materials and mounting equipment, achieving both structural integration and aesthetic consideration.
2Device complexity
If components like battery and inverter are not integrated with the solar product, then the solar panel function is simple, but the components are not integrated with the product and require complicated wiring configurations
Solution Approach 1:
The patent integrates the battery, inverter, and other electronic components within the building block structure itself. This merging of components into the building block eliminates complicated external wiring configurations and achieves true component integration while maintaining functional simplicity.
3Ease of operation
If existing solar arrays are not architecturally integrated, then installation is straightforward, but the solar arrays are far removed from the architecture and require clumsy equipment
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the solar energy harvesting system into modular building blocks that can be individually installed. Each building block contains an integrated solar panel assembly, allowing for straightforward installation while achieving architectural integration through the modular design.
Solution Approach 2:
The building block serves as both the structural element and the solar energy harvesting unit, eliminating the need for separate mounting equipment. This multi-functionality achieves architectural integration while maintaining installation simplicity through the universal building block design.
4Use of energy by moving object
If solar panels are applied to the façade or roof, then solar energy is harvested, but the panels are not structural and are mounted on top of structural building materials
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the solar panel functionality with the structural building block into a single integrated unit. The solar panel is mounted on a frame that is attached to the building block, creating a unified structure that eliminates the separation between solar panels and structural materials.
Solution Approach 2:
The building block serves dual purposes as both the structural support element and the solar energy harvesting platform. This multi-functionality achieves solar energy harvesting while eliminating the need for separate structural materials and mounting systems.
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 solution integrates solar energy harvesting into building structures, providing a clean, efficient, and aesthetically pleasing method to generate and utilize solar power while serving as a structural element, reducing complexity and enhancing energy efficiency.
Implementation Method 1
solar panel users are attached to the wall assembly for integrating with a building structure
Data Source
AI summary
One aspect of the present invention relates to a method for integrating a solar power unit that generates a power signal, into a building structure. The method comprises the steps of attaching a frame of the solar power unit to the building block, installing the solar panel on the attached frame, and securing the solar panel to the attached frame with the front cover.