Integrated PV Roofing Shingles for Simpler Rooftop Installation

Resolve Bottlenecks,
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions

Solution Overview

Problem

Traditional rooftop photovoltaic (PV) systems require significant installation labor and specialized tools, making the process cumbersome and inefficient.

Innovation Solution

Integrated photovoltaic roofing shingles that combine a PV module with a roofing shingle, bonded with a bond strength of 5 N/mm to 60 N/mm, allowing for installation similar to conventional roofing shingles using adhesives and fasteners.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering 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

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvephotovoltaic energy generationVSAvoidinstallation labor and complexity

Core Design Contradiction:

Use of energy by moving objectVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The patent combines the PV module with the roofing shingle into a single integrated unit. The PV module is encapsulated within the shingle structure, merging the energy generation function with the roofing function. This eliminates the need for separate PV panel installation and simplifies the installation process to resemble conventional shingle replacement.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #5Merging (Combining)

Solution Approach 2:

The integrated PV shingle serves multiple functions simultaneously: it provides roofing protection, aesthetic appearance, and photovoltaic energy generation. This multi-functionality reduces the number of separate components and installation steps required compared to traditional PV systems.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

2Ease of operation

If PV modules are integrated with roofing shingles, then installation simplicity improves, but bond strength requirements increase

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveinstallation simplicityVSAvoidbond strength between shingle and PV module

Core Design Contradiction:

Ease of operationVSStrength

Solution Approach 1:

The patent employs a composite construction where the PV module is encapsulated within the shingle structure using bonding materials. This creates a composite assembly that integrates the rigid PV module with the flexible shingle materials, achieving both structural integrity and simplified installation through adhesive bonding rather than mechanical fastening.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #40Composite materials

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

Facilitates easier and more efficient installation of PV systems by reducing labor requirements and simplifying the process to match conventional roofing practices.

Implementation Method 1

integrated photovoltaic (PV) roofing shingles

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectPhotovoltaic effect: Photovoltaic Effect

Implementation Method 2

the roofing shingle is bonded to the PV module by at least one adhesive

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectAdhesion: Adhesive

Data Source

PatentUS12413176B2Integrated photovoltaic roofing shingles, methods, systems, and kits thereof

Publication Date: 2025.09.09 GAF ENERGY LLC

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.