Solar Roof Shingle Access Panel for Micro-Inverter Venting
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Solution Overview
Problem
Traditional solar panels are unsightly on residential roofs, obscuring architectural features and requiring additional components like micro-inverters that increase costs and complexity, while existing solar shingles do not effectively integrate with roofing aesthetics.
Innovation Solution
A solar roof covering system with modular solar shingles featuring a frame that supports a photo-sensitive surface, a micro-inverter, and a raised access panel for ventilation, designed to be aesthetically integrated with roofing, providing efficient water shedding and electrical power generation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Use of energy by moving object
If traditional solar panels are installed on residential roofs, then solar energy collection is achieved, but the architectural appearance of the roof is obscured and aesthetic value deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges solar panel functionality with roof shingle aesthetics by integrating photovoltaic cells into shingle-like structures that match traditional roofing materials in appearance, allowing solar energy collection without compromising architectural appearance
Solution Approach 2:
The solar shingles serve dual functions as both protective roofing material and solar energy collection device, eliminating the need for separate solar panel installations and maintaining roof aesthetic while generating electricity
2Power
If micro-inverters are added to solar panels, then electrical power generation efficiency is improved, but device complexity and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the inverter function into individual micro-inverters integrated with each solar shingle or small group of shingles, allowing independent power conversion and improving overall system efficiency while distributing complexity across multiple small units rather than one large inverter
3Object-affected harmful factors
If solar panels are installed flush with the roof surface, then water shedding is effective, but access to components for maintenance becomes difficult
Solution Approach 1:
The patent incorporates movable or removable access panels in the solar shingle structure that can be opened or detached to provide access to internal components such as micro-inverters and electrical connections, while maintaining the flush-mounted water-shedding design during normal operation
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 system enhances the architectural appearance of residential roofs, integrates solar energy collection seamlessly with roofing, and improves efficiency by locating micro-inverters closer to solar elements, reducing shading losses and transmission costs.
Implementation Method 1
solar cells and multi-cell solar panels have been developed that convert sunlight directly into electrical energy
Implementation Method 2
a solar element having a photo-sensitive upper surface mounted to the top surface of the frame
Data Source
AI summary
A solar module for a roof covering system that generates electrical power from sunlight includes a frame having a bottom surface supported on a deck of a roof, a top surface, and a thickness between the bottom surface and the top surface. The solar module also includes a solar element mounted to the top surface of the frame which has an upper surface. a micro-inverter mounted to the top surface of the frame and to the side of the solar element, and a raised access panel that is removably coupled to the frame to surround the micro-inverter. The raised access panel has an access panel top surface that is elevated above the upper surface of the solar element. The top surface of the frame forms a water shedding surface below the micro-inverter for directing water away from the roof.