Solar-collector roofing assembly
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing solar collector roofing assemblies for outdoor structures, such as car parks, face challenges with wind-load and material usage due to the inclination of solar panels, which can lead to increased maintenance costs and material requirements.
Innovation Solution
A solar-collector roofing assembly with elongate primary and secondary support members aligned in specific planes, allowing for a shallow inclination of solar-energy collector panels, reducing wind-load and material usage by minimizing lateral forces and eliminating the need for vertical struts, while maintaining optimal solar radiation capture.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Use of energy by moving object
If solar collectors are inclined at a steep angle (35-40 degrees) to maximize solar radiation capture, then solar energy generation is improved, but wind-load on the structure increases significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The support structure is divided into multiple levels with solar collectors arranged at different heights. The first solar collectors are positioned at a higher level with a first inclination angle, while second solar collectors are positioned at a lower level with a second inclination angle. This segmentation allows each group to be optimized for different functions: higher collectors capture solar radiation more effectively, while lower collectors have reduced wind exposure.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent transitions from a single-plane arrangement to a multi-level three-dimensional configuration. By stacking solar collectors at different vertical levels and using different inclination angles for each level, the system resolves the conflict between solar capture efficiency and wind-load resistance through spatial dimensionality.
2Strength
If a more rigid framework is constructed to support solar panels and reduce wind damage, then structural strength is improved, but weight and construction cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The support framework is segmented into multiple levels, allowing the structure to distribute loads more efficiently. Each level supports its own solar collectors independently, reducing the overall rigidity requirements compared to a single rigid framework supporting all collectors.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the inclination angle parameter for different levels of solar collectors. The first solar collectors have a first inclination angle optimized for solar capture, while the second solar collectors have a second inclination angle that reduces wind-load. This parameter variation allows the structure to achieve both strength and weight optimization.
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 reduces wind damage and construction costs, enhances the structural integrity and efficiency of solar radiation capture, and allows for the generation of electricity in car parks, making the system more economically viable.
Implementation Method 1
solar-energy collector panels (16)
Data Source
AI summary
A solar-collector roofing assembly (10) comprises a plurality of elongate spaced-apart primary support members (12) aligned in a horizontal plane and extending in a first direction A; a plurality of elongate spaced-apart secondary support members (14) having first and second end portions (38, 40) connected to corresponding said primary support members (12), first and second end portions (38, 40) on a respective primary support member (12) being vertically offset relative to each other; and at least one solar-energy collector panel (16) directly or indirectly supported by the secondary support members (14) so as to have a predetermined fall towards an associated primary support member (12).