Solar roofing system
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing solar panel connection methods damage roofs, require structural upgrades, and are not suitable for sloped surfaces, posing challenges in securing solar panels effectively and efficiently.
Innovation Solution
A connection arrangement using a mushroom-type hook strip system or adhesive strips that can be used with various solar panels, allowing for secure attachment to metal roofing systems without modifying the roof structure, suitable for both sloped and non-sloped surfaces, and enabling easy installation and removal.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Strength
If traditional mechanical fasteners (bolts, screws, nails, rivets) are used to attach solar panels to the roof, then the solar panels can be securely fixed, but the roof membrane integrity is compromised and water-tightness is impaired
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces an intermediary attachment system consisting of roof hooks installed on the roof structure and panel connectors that interface with the solar panel frames. This intermediary system transfers the attachment function away from the roof membrane, allowing mechanical fastening to occur on the roof structure rather than through the membrane, thus maintaining water-tightness while achieving secure panel fixation
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces the traditional mechanical penetration system (screws through membrane) with an alternative mechanical system that utilizes roof hooks engaging with panel connectors. This substitution eliminates the need for membrane penetrations while maintaining the mechanical strength required for secure attachment, addressing both the strength requirement and the roof damage concern
2Object-affected harmful factors
If ballast blocks are used to secure solar panels without mechanical fasteners, then the roof membrane integrity is maintained, but significant additional weight is added to the roofing system
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the ballast-based mechanical retention system with a hook-and-connector mechanical fastening system. Instead of relying on weight to prevent panel displacement, the system uses roof hooks that mechanically engage with panel connectors, providing secure attachment without the significant additional weight of ballast blocks
Solution Approach 2:
The patent extracts the weight-bearing function from the attachment system. By using roof hooks that transfer loads to the roof structure rather than relying on ballast weight, the system eliminates the need for heavy counterweights while maintaining secure panel fixation, thus reducing the overall system weight
3Object-affected harmful factors
If ballast blocks are used to secure solar panels, then mechanical fasteners are eliminated, but the system cannot be used on sloped roof surfaces
Solution Approach 1:
The patent creates a universal attachment system where roof hooks and panel connectors can be adapted to various roof types including sloped surfaces. The system is designed to function on different roof geometries by adjusting the hook placement and orientation, eliminating the limitation of ballast blocks that only work on flat roofs while maintaining roof membrane integrity
4Strength
If traditional mechanical connectors are used to attach solar panels, then secure fixation is achieved, but the connectors become rusted and corroded over time, increasing repair time and cost
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs composite material strategies by using corrosion-resistant materials for the roof hooks and panel connectors. The system incorporates materials that resist rust and degradation over time, such as coated metals or corrosion-resistant alloys, thereby maintaining attachment strength and reliability while reducing maintenance requirements and repair costs
Data Source
AI summary
An apparatus and method for connecting solar panels to a roof system surface. The solar panels can be formed flexible or non-flexible solar panels that are at least partially attached to a roofing surface by use of a fastener.