Overlapping BIPV Module Layout for Lower Inactive Roof Area
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing building integrated photovoltaic systems face challenges in optimizing energy generation and reducing inactive areas on steep slope roof decks, particularly due to the overlapping and alignment of photovoltaic modules.
Innovation Solution
The system comprises at least three photovoltaic modules installed on a steep slope roof deck, with each module having solar cells whose edges are offset to allow for overlapping configurations. This configuration includes fractional inactive areas calculated based on clearance distances and module widths, ensuring efficient energy generation and reduced inactive areas.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If photovoltaic modules are installed with overlapping configurations on steep slope roof decks, then energy density is improved, but inactive areas increase
Solution Approach 1:
The photovoltaic module is segmented into multiple solar cells with specific offset configurations. The solar cells are arranged in rows with controlled offsets at module edges, creating a segmented structure that allows overlapping installation while minimizing inactive areas. This segmentation enables the system to achieve high energy density without excessive inactive space.
Solution Approach 2:
The offset configuration is applied locally at specific edges of the photovoltaic modules rather than uniformly across all edges. The patent specifies that solar cells are offset at certain edges to enable overlapping installation, while maintaining full coverage in other areas. This local application of offset configuration optimizes the balance between energy density and inactive area.
2Adaptability or versatility
If solar cells are offset from module edges to enable overlapping installation, then adaptability to steep slope roofs is improved, but manufacturing precision requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The offset configuration of solar cells within each photovoltaic module is predetermined during manufacturing. The solar cells are positioned with specific offsets from module edges before the modules are installed on the roof. This preliminary positioning eliminates the need for complex alignment adjustments during installation, reducing on-site precision requirements while maintaining adaptability to steep slope roofs.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent specifies particular offset distance parameters for solar cells relative to module edges. By defining specific parameter ranges for these offsets, the system achieves adaptability to various steep slope roof configurations while maintaining manageable manufacturing precision requirements. The parameter optimization balances adaptability with manufacturability.
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 described configuration enhances energy density and reduces inactive areas, thereby improving the overall efficiency of building integrated photovoltaic systems on steep slope roof decks.
Implementation Method 1
Photovoltaic systems are installed on building roofs to generate electricity
Data Source
AI summary
A system includes first, second and third photovoltaic modules on a rood. Each module includes an upper edge, a lower edge and at least one solar cell. Lower edges of the cells of the first and second modules are offset from lower edges of the first and second modules. Upper edge of the cell of the second module is offset from the upper edge of the second module. The upper edge of the cell of the third module is offset from the upper edge of the third module. The first module overlays the second module. The lower edge of the cell of the first module is substantially aligned with the upper edge of the cell of the second module. The second module overlays the third module. The lower edge of the cell of the second module is substantially aligned with the upper edge of the cell of the third module.