Flexible solar roofing modules
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
The adoption of solar technology is limited by aesthetic concerns, as existing solar systems stand out from traditional roofs, and the mismatch between the lifespan of solar systems and roofing materials, requiring costly upgrades.
Innovation Solution
The development of flexible photovoltaic modules that mimic traditional roofing tiles, allowing for seamless integration with existing roofs and extending the lifespan of solar installations, while reducing installation time and costs.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Use of energy by moving object
If conventional solar modules are installed over existing roofs, then solar power generation is achieved, but aesthetic appearance deteriorates as the solar array stands out separately from the existing roof
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the solar panel structure with traditional roofing materials by integrating photovoltaic cells directly into shingle-like components. The solar shingles are designed to mimic the appearance of conventional roofing materials while incorporating functional solar cells, thereby combining energy generation with aesthetic roofing in a single integrated product rather than installing separate solar panels over the roof.
Solution Approach 2:
The solar shingles are designed with color and texture properties that match traditional roofing materials. The photovoltaic components are concealed or integrated in a way that maintains the visual appearance of conventional shingles, allowing the roof to maintain its original aesthetic character while generating solar power.
2Use of energy by moving object
If solar arrays are installed as separate modules over existing roofs, then solar power generation is achieved, but installation complexity increases due to separate mounting and connection processes
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple functions into a single integrated component: the solar shingle serves simultaneously as the roofing material, the solar panel, and the mounting element. This eliminates the need for separate mounting hardware, flashing, and connection systems required by conventional solar panel installations, thereby reducing installation complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The solar shingle is designed as a multi-functional component that performs multiple roles: it provides weather protection as roofing material, generates electrical energy through integrated photovoltaic cells, and serves as its own mounting and sealing system. This universal design reduces the number of different components and installation steps required.
3Use of energy by moving object
If solar systems are installed on existing composition shingle roofs, then solar power generation is achieved, but lifespan mismatch occurs between the 25-year solar system and the shorter remaining lifespan of the aging roof
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the solar system lifespan with the roofing material lifespan by making the solar cells an integral part of the shingle structure. When the roof reaches the end of its service life, the entire solar shingle assembly is replaced along with the roofing material, ensuring that the solar system and roof structure have matched lifecycles and are replaced simultaneously.
Solution Approach 2:
The invention changes the fundamental parameter of system replacement timing by integrating solar cells into the roofing material itself. This transforms the solar system from a separate long-lived component into a lifecycle-synchronized element that is replaced with the roof, eliminating the mismatch between solar system longevity and roof material durability.
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 flexible modules provide a visually appealing and durable solar solution that aligns with the lifespan of roofing materials, reducing the need for separate solar and roofing upgrades, thus enhancing adoption and efficiency.
Implementation Method 1
a first PV tile area, second PV tile area, and third PV tile area... each PV tile area containing photovoltaic elements
Data Source
AI summary
Building integrated photovoltaic (BIPV) systems provide for solar panel arrays that can be aesthetically pleasing to an observer. BIPV systems can be incorporated as part of roof surfaces as built into the structure of the roof, particularly as roofing modules that have photovoltaic elements embedded or incorporated into the body of the module, in distinct tiles-sized areas. The use of modules that replicate the look of individual roofing tiles (or shingles) can lead to a more efficient installation process. Further, modules can include flexible joints between the distinct tiles-sized areas, across which solar cells within the module are electrically connected. The flexibility granted to the modules also makes installation easier, and further improves the fatigue and strain resistance of the overall solar array for its operational life.