Roof Integrated Photovoltaic Edge Connector Design
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Solution Overview
Problem
The thickness of roof integrated photovoltaic (RIPV) solar tiles is limited by traditional electrical junction boxes and connectors, which hinders their thinness and aesthetic integration with traditional roofing tiles.
Innovation Solution
The implementation of edge connectors that are mounted on the edge of the solar tiles instead of the back, allowing for thinner tiles that resemble traditional roofing tiles, with ventilation and cable accommodation benefits.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Shape
If traditional electrical junction boxes and connectors are used on solar tiles, then the tiles can be interconnected electrically, but the tiles become thicker and less aesthetically pleasing
Solution Approach 1:
The patent moves the electrical junction box from the back surface of the solar tile to the edge of the tile. This dimensional relocation allows the junction box to be positioned in the gap between tiles rather than adding to the overall thickness of the tile assembly, thereby achieving thinner profile tiles while maintaining electrical connectivity capabilities
Solution Approach 2:
The patent embeds the electrical junction box within the gap space created by the overlapping tile configuration. The junction box is nested in the space between the front edge of one tile and the back edge of the tile below it, utilizing otherwise wasted space for electrical connection functions without increasing external dimensions
2Ease of operation
If junction boxes are mounted on the back of solar tiles, then electrical connections can be made, but the tile thickness is limited by the junction box thickness
Solution Approach 1:
The patent relocates the junction box from the vertical dimension (back surface of tile) to the horizontal dimension (edge of tile). This allows the junction box to protrude laterally into the gap between tiles rather than extending vertically, maintaining ease of electrical connection while reducing the overall thickness of the tile assembly
Solution Approach 2:
The patent uses the existing gap space between overlapping tiles as a template for positioning the junction box. The junction box is placed in the space that already exists due to the overlapping configuration, effectively copying the spatial arrangement for a dual purpose: both structural overlap for weatherproofing and electrical connection housing
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
Enables thinner solar tiles that are architecturally pleasing, easy to interconnect and maintain, while maximizing efficiency through ventilation and cable management.
Implementation Method 1
individual solar tiles that are installable in courses on a roof to produce electrical energy when exposed to sunlight
Data Source
AI summary
A roof integrated photovoltaic (RIPV) system has a plurality of solar tiles that are mounted to a roof. The tiles may be mounted using a metal batten and hanger system or some other attachment system. Each tile has an electrical edge junction extending rearwardly from its top edge. The edge junction is coextensive with or contains the plane of the solar tile and may be slightly thicker than the solar tile. Sockets on opposed ends of the edge junction receive plugs of electrical cables for interconnecting the array of solar tiles together electrically. The edge junctions provide for a low profile installation that mimics the appearance of a traditional roofing tile such as a slate tile. The slightly thicker edge junctions may raise solar tiles of one course above the surfaces of solar tiles of a next lower course to provide ventilation for the RIPV array and to provide accommodating space for system wiring.