PV Roofing Tile Foot With Universal Coupling for Mixed Tile Installation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing PV roofing systems require multiple components to join PV and non-PV roofing tiles, increasing complexity and cost, and non-PV tiles often need custom shapes to fit irregular roof structures.
Innovation Solution
A universal foot design for PV roofing tiles that can securely attach both PV and non-PV tiles using a single type of foot, featuring a coupling assembly with retaining features and a standoff to facilitate easy installation and reduce component variety.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If multiple components are used to join PV and non-PV roofing tiles, then the connection reliability is improved, but the device complexity and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The foot is designed with a universal coupling assembly that can attach to both PV and non-PV roofing tiles using the same mechanism. The coupling assembly includes a body with a first interface for attaching to the roofing substrate and a second interface for attaching to the up-roof tile, allowing a single foot design to serve multiple functions for different tile types.
Solution Approach 2:
The foot integrates multiple functions into a single component: it provides structural support through the standoff, creates weather barriers at the tile joints, and enables mechanical attachment of both PV and non-PV tiles through the coupling assembly. This merging of functions reduces the total number of components needed in the system.
2Adaptability or versatility
If custom shapes are used for non-PV tiles to fit irregular roof structures, then the adaptability to irregular roofs is improved, but the manufacturing complexity and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The coupling assembly incorporates a flexible flapper component that can adapt to various tile shapes and positions. The flapper is biased by a spring to maintain contact with the tile surface, allowing the assembly to accommodate irregular roof structures and non-standard tile shapes without requiring custom-manufactured feet for each configuration.
Solution Approach 2:
The foot design allows for adjustment of the coupling assembly orientation and position to accommodate different tile geometries. The adjustable nature of the coupling assembly enables the same foot component to work with various tile shapes by changing its installation parameters rather than requiring custom-shaped components.
3Ease of operation
If a universal foot design is used to attach both PV and non-PV tiles, then the ease of installation and cost are improved, but the challenge lies in creating a single interface that works for both PV and non-PV tiles
Solution Approach 1:
The coupling assembly is divided into distinct functional segments: a body portion that attaches to the roofing substrate, a flapper component that interfaces with the up-roof tile, and a spring mechanism that provides biasing force. This segmentation allows each component to be optimized for its specific function while working together as a universal attachment system.
Solution Approach 2:
The flapper acts as an intermediary element between the rigid coupling assembly body and the varied tile surfaces. It mediates the connection by adapting to different tile geometries while maintaining secure attachment, allowing the same coupling assembly design to work with both PV and non-PV tiles of various shapes.
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
Simplifies the installation process by reducing the number of components needed and allows for flexible, cost-effective integration of PV and non-PV tiles on irregular roof structures.
Implementation Method 1
a photovoltaic (PV) tile backer; a plurality of solar cells disposed between the protective cover and the PV tile backer
Data Source
AI summary
A configuration for a foot for a PV (PV) roofing tile is described. The foot optionally includes multiple retaining features that are engaged by hooks or brackets of adjacent roofing tiles to prevent upward movement of roofing tiles located up roof from the foot. The foot optionally also positions the PV roofing tile a fixed distance above a roofing substrate without the need for applying a set of battens atop the roofing substrate. Non-PV roofing tiles compatible with the describe foot are also described. The non-PV roofing tile is optionally configured so that it can be cut into smaller pieces as needed to fill small openings on a roof top.