Interlocking Photovoltaic Roofing Elements for Waterproof Wiring

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing photovoltaic roofing systems face challenges in installation on steep surfaces, ensuring waterproofing, and aesthetic integration with conventional roofing, as well as risks of wiring damage during installation, which can lead to power loss, injury, or fire.

Innovation Solution

A frame structure with an upward-facing and downward-facing surface, including an attachment zone and an exposure zone, with sidelap portions for interlocking with adjacent elements to provide water drainage channels, and a wiring containment structure to prevent pinching, along with side flashing elements for enhanced waterproofing and aesthetic integration.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Productivity

If photovoltaic roofing elements are installed on steep surfaces, then power generation coverage is improved, but installation difficulty and waterproofing reliability deteriorate

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvepower generation coverageVSAvoidinstallation difficulty

Core Design Contradiction:

ProductivityVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The photovoltaic roofing system is divided into modular elements that can be individually installed and interconnected. Each element contains integrated wiring channels that segment the wiring path, preventing tangling and making installation on steep surfaces more manageable while maintaining comprehensive power generation coverage.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The patent introduces intermediate connection components including wiring channels integrated into the roofing elements themselves. These channels act as intermediaries that guide and protect wiring during installation, eliminating the need for external wiring that can become tangled or damaged on steep surfaces.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

2Ease of operation

If wiring is exposed during installation, then ease of connection is improved, but wiring damage risk and safety deteriorate

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvewiring connection easeVSAvoidwiring damage risk

Core Design Contradiction:

Ease of operationVSReliability

Solution Approach 1:

The wiring channels are nested within the structure of the photovoltaic roofing elements themselves. The wiring is contained within recesses and channels that are integral to the roofing element design, protecting it from external damage while maintaining ease of connection through built-in connection points.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #7Nested doll (Nesting)

Solution Approach 2:

The wiring channels and protection structures are pre-formed as part of the roofing element manufacturing process. Wiring pathways are established beforehand during element fabrication, eliminating the need for现场 wiring installation that could lead to damage or safety issues.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #10Preliminary action

3Productivity

If photovoltaic roofing elements are used instead of conventional roofing, then power generation capability is improved, but aesthetic integration and transition zone appearance deteriorate

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvepower generation capabilityVSAvoidaesthetic integration

Core Design Contradiction:

ProductivityVSShape

Solution Approach 1:

The photovoltaic roofing elements serve multiple functions simultaneously: they provide weather protection, generate electricity, and maintain aesthetic continuity with conventional roofing. The design integrates photovoltaic functionality into roofing elements that match the appearance and form factor of traditional roofing materials.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

Solution Approach 2:

The patent applies photovoltaic elements selectively in specific zones while maintaining conventional roofing in transition areas. This local application strategy allows power generation in optimal areas while preserving aesthetic integration at edges and boundaries where conventional roofing materials are used.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #3Local quality

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 facilitates easier installation, ensures waterproofing, and reduces the risk of wiring damage, providing a more efficient and safe photovoltaic roofing system that integrates well with conventional roofing while maintaining aesthetic appeal.

Implementation Method 1

The present invention relates to the photovoltaic generation of electrical energy

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectPhotovoltaic effect: Photovoltaic Effect

Data Source

PatentUS9270224B2Photovoltaic roofing elements and photovoltaic roofing systems

Publication Date: 2016.02.23 CERTAINTEED LLC

AI summary

The present invention relates generally to the photovoltaic generation of electrical energy. The present invention relates more particularly to photovoltaic arrays for use in photovoltaically generating electrical energy. Aspects of the present invention provide a variety of photovoltaic roofing elements and systems that include, for example, interlocking geometries to provide for water handling and integration with conventional roofing materials; and wire management features that can protect wiring and associated electrical components from physical and/or environmental damage.