Flexible PV Roofing Membrane with Integrated Conductive Traces
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional solar-powered roofing systems face challenges such as high initial costs, difficult maintenance, leakage risks due to multiple holes in the roof, and aesthetic issues with visible solar panels, making them unappealing to consumers.
Innovation Solution
A flexible integrated photovoltaic roofing membrane with overlapping membrane members and electrically interconnected photovoltaic solar elements, using adhesive materials and conductive traces for seamless electrical connections, resembling conventional shingles in texture and color to blend in with the roof.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If multiple holes are formed through the roof deck for electrical connections, then electrical connectivity between solar shingle members is achieved, but leakage risk increases during inclement weather
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the electrical connection function with the structural shingle member itself by incorporating conductive traces directly into the shingle body. This integration eliminates the need for separate wiring through holes, as electrical connectivity is achieved through the overlapping arrangement of conductive traces on the shingle surfaces, thereby maintaining reliability without increasing leakage risk
Solution Approach 2:
The conductive traces act as intermediaries that transfer electrical signals across the shingle members through their overlapping edges. Instead of requiring direct penetration through the roof deck, the traces provide a continuous conductive path along the surface, mediating the electrical connection while preserving the integrity of the roof membrane against water infiltration
2Shape
If solar shingle members are made to resemble ordinary roofing shingles, then aesthetic appearance is improved, but electrical interconnection complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The shingle members are designed to perform multiple functions simultaneously: they provide the primary roofing function for aesthetic appearance while also serving as the electrical connection medium through integrated conductive traces. This multi-functionality allows the same component to fulfill both architectural and electrical requirements, thereby improving appearance without necessarily increasing complexity
Solution Approach 2:
The electrical connection system is segmented into discrete conductive traces that are distributed across multiple shingle members. Each shingle contains simplified trace patterns that connect locally, and the overall system complexity is managed by dividing the electrical pathway into manageable segments rather than requiring complex centralized wiring
3Use of energy by moving object
If conventional crystal solar panels are used, then photovoltaic functionality is achieved, but cost and fragility increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces conventional rigid crystal solar panels with thin-film photovoltaic materials that can be applied as flexible coatings or integrated layers on the shingle surface. This substitution maintains photovoltaic functionality while dramatically reducing fragility and enabling integration with the flexible shingle structure, thereby improving ease of manufacture and durability
Solution Approach 2:
The patent employs composite material structures that combine photovoltaic active layers with flexible substrate materials and protective coatings. This composite approach enables the solar functional layer to be integrated into the shingle construction process, reducing overall system cost and improving manufacturability compared to assembling separate rigid crystal panels
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 solution simplifies installation, reduces leakage risks, and enhances aesthetics by allowing solar power integration without the need for multiple holes, providing a cost-effective and visually appealing solar-powered system that supplements or replaces traditional electricity.
Implementation Method 1
photovoltaic solar elements dispersed on a top surface of the first and second main bodies and on the extending portions
Data Source
AI summary
Disclosed herein are flexible, solar powered photovoltaic (PV) integrated roofing membrane and related methods of manufacturing such a membrane. The disclosed membrane and methods beneficially provide solar power to structures in either off-grid or on-grid connections. The roofing membrane may comprise multiple membrane strips or members having electrically interconnected photovoltaic solar elements. The membrane members preferably have distinct patterns for the solar elements located thereon that provide for coverage of entire sections, upon installation, as well as accommodate interconnections between the solar elements. Moreover, the membrane will appreciate the numerous types of patterns to achieve such purposed of full coverage and electrical coupling.