Modular Solar Roof Covering With Inductive Power Coupling
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing roof covering systems for solar panels are cumbersome to install, have limited life expectancy due to small components, and require extensive wiring, making them time-consuming and costly to set up, especially on varied roof structures.
Innovation Solution
A modular roof covering system featuring a box-shaped container with a photovoltaic element and a light-transparent cover, using inductive coupling for simplified electrical power transfer and snap-fit connections for easy assembly, which can be integrated into existing roofs or serve as a standalone roof structure.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Use of energy by moving object
If traditional roof covering systems with solar panels are used, then solar energy generation is achieved, but installation complexity and time increase significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The roof covering system is divided into modular elements, each comprising a container with photovoltaic element and cover assembly. These standardized modules can be quickly installed by simply coupling them together, eliminating the need for complex on-site wiring and structural modifications. The segmentation allows parallel installation of multiple units, dramatically reducing total installation time while maintaining solar energy generation capability.
Solution Approach 2:
The invention merges the container, photovoltaic element, cover, and coupling means into a single integrated modular unit. This combination eliminates the need for separate installation of electrical wiring, structural mounting, and panel assembly that characterizes traditional solar roof systems. The merged design allows the entire functional unit to be installed as one component, reducing installation time and complexity.
2Use of energy by moving object
If traditional solar panel installation methods are used, then photovoltaic functionality is achieved, but device complexity and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The modular elements are designed with universal coupling means that can be applied to various roof types and configurations. The standardized interface allows the same photovoltaic module to be installed on different roof structures without requiring custom adaptation or complex mounting systems. This universality simplifies the overall system design and reduces the complexity of installation procedures while maintaining full photovoltaic functionality.
Solution Approach 2:
The photovoltaic element is nested within the container, which is itself covered by the cover and integrated with coupling means. This nested structure consolidates multiple functional components into a compact unit, reducing the overall system complexity by eliminating the need for separate mounting brackets, wiring channels, and protective enclosures that would be required if these components were installed separately.
3Ease of operation
If modular elements with coupling means are used, then ease of assembly is improved, but manufacturing complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The coupling means, sealing elements, and photovoltaic elements are pre-integrated into the container structure during manufacturing. This preliminary action of assembling key components before final product formation simplifies the manufacturing process by allowing standardized production of modular units. The pre-assembled nature of these components enables automated manufacturing techniques while ensuring consistent quality and reducing assembly complexity during installation.
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 modular system allows for quick and cost-effective installation of solar panels with enhanced durability and reduced maintenance, as it simplifies electrical connections and integrates seamlessly with various roof types, providing efficient energy generation and improved insulation.
Implementation Method 1
electrical power can be generated by the photovoltaic cell by due to incident sunlight
Implementation Method 2
inductive coupling for simplified electrical power transfer
Data Source
AI summary
Roof (2), at least in part covered by a modular roof covering, said modular roof covering comprising a plurality of modular elements (1) for covering said roof, wherein the plurality of elements is arranged such that at least part of a roof is fully covered by the plurality of elements, and wherein each element is coupled via coupling means to at least one adjacent further element of the plurality of elements, and the roof having sloped rafters (4) extending mutually parallel to a roof ridge, wherein the plurality of elements is directly mounted onto rafters, wherein preferably each element is supported, in a direction transverse to the rafters, onto two neighboring rafters.