Modular Roofing Element with Integrated Rainwater Containers
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing roofing systems for rainwater harvesting are not suitable for retrofitting existing buildings, do not maximize rainwater collection, and do not allow easy installation while maintaining aesthetic appeal and structural integrity.
Innovation Solution
A modular roofing element comprising a container and receptacle system, where the container is designed to fit into a receptacle fixed to the building frame, with connectors allowing water circulation between elements, and a covering device that maintains aesthetic appearance.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Quantity of substance
If a water tank is installed in the attic or on the ground to collect rainwater, then rainwater harvesting capability is improved, but the structural load on the building increases and major modification or reinforcement of the framework is required
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the rainwater storage system into multiple small containers distributed across the roof surface, rather than using a single large tank. Each container is integrated into a roofing element and stores rainwater locally, collectively providing the required storage capacity while distributing the weight load across the entire roof structure, thereby avoiding the need for major framework reinforcement
Solution Approach 2:
The invention transitions from vertical storage (attic or ground-level tanks) to horizontal distribution across the roof surface. By utilizing the two-dimensional roof area for water collection and storage, the system maximizes rainwater harvesting capacity without concentrating weight in a single location, thus preserving the building framework's structural integrity
2Quantity of substance
If a traditional rainwater collection system is installed on an existing roof, then rainwater harvesting is enabled, but the installation complexity increases and aesthetic appearance is compromised
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the rainwater collection function with the roofing structure itself. The containers are integrated into roofing elements that also serve as protective and aesthetic components of the roof. This merging eliminates the need for separate, complex installation systems and allows the roof to perform both structural protection and water harvesting functions simultaneously
Solution Approach 2:
The roofing elements are designed to perform multiple functions: they provide weather protection, structural support, aesthetic appearance, and rainwater collection. This multi-functionality reduces overall system complexity by eliminating the need for separate dedicated rainwater collection infrastructure, making the system easier to install on existing roofs
3Adaptability or versatility
If containers are connected to allow water circulation between them, then water distribution flexibility is improved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The connectors are pre-integrated into the container design during manufacturing, rather than requiring separate installation steps. This preliminary integration simplifies the overall system complexity by reducing the number of separate components and assembly operations needed, while still enabling flexible water circulation between connected containers
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 easy installation and retrofitting of rainwater collection systems on existing roofs, maximizing collection capacity while maintaining structural integrity and aesthetic appeal, with modular design and connectors for water distribution.
Implementation Method 1
a container into which water can be introduced... allowing rainwater to enter each tank
Implementation Method 2
at least one connector adapted to be able to be connected to at least one connector of a separate container... so as to allow circulation of water between said containers
Data Source
Figure 1
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Figure 4
AI summary
The invention relates to a roofing element comprising: a container (20) having at least one water inlet orifice (25), characterized in that it additionally comprises: a receptacle (5) suitable for being able to receive the container and hold it in place and for being able to be fixed to the frame of a building, the receptacle having a bottom and peripheral side walls for keeping the container in place, and in that each container comprises at least one connector suitable for being able to be connected to at least one connector of a separate container of a separate roofing element so as to allow water to flow between the containers. The invention also relates to a roof comprising such roofing elements and to a method for installing such a roof.