Entries |
Document | Title | Date |
20080250733 | DUAL PANEL SYSTEM FOR CONTROLLING THE PASSAGE OF LIGHT THROUGH ARCHITECTURAL STRUCTURES - The invention comprises a transparent/translucent panel system including two spaced flat panels and a series of elongated, abutting, rotatably mounted transparent/translucent light-controlling members disposed between the panels in which the light-controlling members are at least partially tubular or have annular members along their length to facilitate rotation of the light-controlling members and include a light-blocking surface whereby differently sized light-controlling members may be used and the light-controlling members, when rotated by a simple drive mechanism, can vary the light passing through the panel system from clear to opaque and can effectively block light between adjacent light-controlling members. | 10-16-2008 |
20080276552 | Adaptor - An adaptor for, and a method of, interfacing a substantially planar solar energy collecting panel with curved roof tiles having an arcuate cross-section. An adaptor comprising a substantially rectangular body. An underlapping flange and an overlapping flange extend one from each side edge, and a portion between the underlapping and overlapping flanges is recessed from the front face of the adaptor. The underlapping and overlapping flanges are configured to cooperate with side overlapping and underlapping flanges of a solar energy collecting panel respectively. The recessed portion is configured to receive, into contact with a surface of the recessed portion, a downwardly depending edge of a curved roof tile that is located to extend over the underlapping flange or over the overlapping flange and also over an upwardly depending edge of another curved roof tile. | 11-13-2008 |
20080289271 | COMPLIANT MOUNTING FOR OPTICAL COMPONENT - In one embodiment, a first mount is coupled to a first panel. A first compliant member is then placed on an optical component. The optical component and first compliant member are then placed on the first mount. For example, the optical component and the first compliant member are placed on a ledge of the first mount and a cylinder of the first mount may pass through the aperture. Also, one side of the first compliant member touches the first mount. A second mount is then placed on top of the other surface of the first compliant member. The front panel and a second compliant member are then placed on a front side of the optical component to secure the optical component in the optical system. | 11-27-2008 |
20080289272 | FLAT ROOF TILE WITH INTEGRATED PHOTOVOLTAIC MODULE - A roofing module provides weather protection generates electrical power. The module includes an injection molded base having a size, a shape and an appearance of a conventional flat concrete roofing tile with a top surface having a slate-like striated texture. The base is made from lightweight plastic material. The base includes a depressed portion in an upper surface. A photovoltaic panel assembly is positioned in the depressed portion with electrical conductors from the photovoltaic panel passing through an opening in the depressed portion. | 11-27-2008 |
20080302030 | Structures for Low Cost, Reliable Solar Roofing - Improved photovoltaic devices, and more specifically, improved building integrated photovoltaic devices are described herein. In one embodiment, the photovoltaic roofing structure may be comprised of a roofing tile having a top surface, a bottom surface, and a recessed portion; a photovoltaic module sized to fit within the recessed portion of the roofing structure. | 12-11-2008 |
20080302031 | INTEGRATED SOLAR ROOFING TILE CONNECTION SYSTEM - An integrated solar roofing tile connection system for installing on a roof surface for converting solar energy into electrical energy includes a plurality of battens that each have a length and are mounted to the roof surface. The plurality of battens are generally parallel to and spaced from one another. A plurality of electrically connected female connectors mounted to each batten and spaced along the length of each batten. A plurality of photovoltaic roofing tiles are mounted to each batten. Each photovoltaic roofing tile has a tile base that has a first side surface, a second side surface and a top edge and a photovoltaic circuit. The photovoltaic circuit includes a plurality of electrically interconnected photovoltaic cells and first and second terminal ends. Each photovoltaic roofing tile includes a male connector that extends from the tile base. Each male connector at least partially exposes the first and second terminal ends. Each male connector is removably mountable to and in electrical engagement with a corresponding female connector. | 12-11-2008 |
20080313977 | Electric Tile Modules - The electrically connectable tile module includes a porous substrate having a top side, a bottom side, and at least two side edges. At least one connector is integrated into the porous substrate allowing adjoining electrically connectable tile modules to be electrically connected to the porous substrate. At least one electrical element is disposed over the top side of the porous substrate and electrically connected to the at least one connector. | 12-25-2008 |
20090000221 | Photovoltaic Devices Including Cover Elements, and Photovoltaic Systems, Arrays, Roofs and Methods Using Them - The present invention provides a photovoltaic device having an active face, an active area on the active face and an operating wavelength range; and a cover element attached to the photovoltaic device and disposed over the active area of the active face of the photovoltaic element, the cover element having an opacity of at least about 25%. The present invention also provides photovoltaic systems, arrays, roofs and methods using such photovoltaic devices. In one embodiment of the invention, the photovoltaic device is a photovoltaic roofing element in which a photovoltaic element is integrated with a roofing substrate. | 01-01-2009 |
20090000222 | Photovoltaic Roofing Tiles And Methods For Making Them - The present invention relates to photovoltaic roofing tiles and methods of manufacturing them. One aspect of the present invention is a photovoltaic roofing tile comprising: a polymeric carrier tile having a top surface and a bottom surface; and a photovoltaic element affixed to the polymeric carrier tile, the photovoltaic element having a bottom surface and a top surface having an active area. Another aspect of the invention is a method of making a photovoltaic roofing tile comprising inserting into a compression mold a polymeric tile preform having a top surface and a bottom surface, and a photovoltaic element, a surface of the photovoltaic element being disposed adjacent to a surface of the polymeric tile preform; compression molding the polymeric tile preform and the photovoltaic element together to form an unfinished photovoltaic roofing tile; and finishing the unfinished photovoltaic roofing tile to provide the photovoltaic roofing tile. | 01-01-2009 |
20090019795 | Roof Cover or Facade Siding - The roof or facade cladding comprises panel-shaped construction elements ( | 01-22-2009 |
20090019796 | Low Profile Mounting System - The specification and drawing figures describe and show a low profile mounting system that includes a at least one rail. A plurality of tracks is formed in the rail with opposing jaws. The opposing jaws define a slot. The opposing jaws are disposed in the rail asymmetrically to the longitudinal axis of the rail. At least one ledge monolithically extends from the rail for holding an object such as a solar panel. A coupler is provided for demountably connecting a solar panel to the rail. A cleat also is provided for attaching the system to a surface. A connector connects the rail to the cleat. This abstract is provided to comply with rules requiring an abstract that will allow a searcher or other reader to quickly ascertain the subject matter of the technical disclosure, but this abstract is not to be used to interpret or limit the scope or meaning of any claim. | 01-22-2009 |
20090025313 | DEVICE AND METHOD FOR FIXING OBJECTS, IN PARTICULAR SOLAR PANELS, TO A ROOF - A device for fixing objects, in particular solar panels, to a roof, the device comprising at least one base element connectable to the roof and a top structure connectable to the base element for fixing to an object, wherein the base element and the top structure can be mutually coupled by means of a snap connection. A process for assembling such devices. | 01-29-2009 |
20090025314 | Mounting Structure of Solar Cell Module - A mounting structure of a solar cell module includes a fastening for mounting the solar cell module on a lateral beam. The fastening includes a body, and a plurality of hooks formed at an end of the body. The hooks have a hook having a form bent toward one side, having an end directed downward and serving as a first hook, and a hook having a form bent away from the one side, having an end directed downward and serving as a second hook. The hooks are opposed to and engaged with a projection of a hooked and L-shaped form formed on the solar cell module. | 01-29-2009 |
20090025315 | Apparatus for Supplying Power to Building Using Solar Power Source - Equipment for supplying energy to buildings or building complexes using solar energy as a source has a first solar panel installation for converting solar energy to electricity, a second solar panel installation for converting solar energy to thermal energy, a water based electrolysis device for splitting water into hydrogen and oxygen using electricity generated by the first solar panel installation, a storage device for hydrogen and an electricity storage device. In order to create a less costly and more versatile energy supply system, the arrangement of multiple independently functioning modular fuel cell blocks of different capacities composed of at least one fuel cell block of specified capacities which can be controlled and initiated either individually or in combination depending on the demand for electricity and/or thermal energy and depending on the optimal constellation of fuel cell blocks engaged. | 01-29-2009 |
20090031647 | SOLAR PANEL MOUNTING STRUCTURE - The present invention proposes a solar panel mounting structure comprises: a frame and three gears. The frame has a first opening, a second opening and a third opening, and connects to a solar panel; the third opening is aligned with the first opening and the second opening. The first gear has a first bar; the first bar works in the first opening. The second gear has a second bar; the second bar works in the second opening. The third gear has an axle, and locates between the first gear and the second gear and gearing therein; the axle works in the third opening; thereby, the solar panel seesaws when the third gear turns. | 02-05-2009 |
20090038241 | SOLAR ROOF AND SOLAR BUILDING HAVING SAME - An exemplary solar roof includes a roof body and a flexible solar cell layer covering the roof body. A surface of the solar cell layer for receiving sun rays forms at least one part of an exterior surface of a dome. The solar cell layer includes a flexible substrate formed on the roof body, a back metal contact layer formed on the substrate, a P-type semiconductor layer formed on the back metal contact layer, a P-N junction layer formed on the P-type semiconductor layer, an N-type semiconductor layer formed on the P-N junction layer, and a front metal contact layer formed on the N-type semiconductor layer. | 02-12-2009 |
20090044465 | Building wall with fluid ducts as energy barriers - The invention relates to a wall or roof surface element ( | 02-19-2009 |
20090064606 | Insulating Panel for Buildings, Provided With an Auxiliary Unit, in Particular a Photovoltaic Unit, and With Improved Means for Supporting and Holding the Auxiliary Unit - A prefabricated insulating panel for making outer surfaces of buildings, integrating an auxiliary panel unit, particularly a photovoltaic unit, is equipped with one or more quick-fit retention members of the auxiliary panel unit, each quick-fit retention members including an engaging portion to retain said auxiliary panel unit in a position thereof resting over the insulating panel, which members can be anchored quickly to said insulating panel without the need to make holes in the insulating panel and/or in the structure of said auxiliary panel unit for the engagement of fixing elements such as screws or the like. | 03-12-2009 |
20090077907 | PROFILE ROOF TILE WITH INTEGRATED PHOTOVOLTAIC MODULE - A roofing module provides weather protection generates electrical power. The module comprises a base having a plurality of curved crests and curved pans. The crests and pans have contours sized and shaped to match the size and shape of the contours and pans of conventional clay or concrete S-tiles to enable the base to interlock with the conventional clay or concrete S-tiles. The base is made from lightweight plastic material. Each crest of the base includes a depressed portion. A photovoltaic panel is positioned in the depressed portions of at least two curved crests and span across at least one curved pan between the at least two curved crests. | 03-26-2009 |
20090113822 | Photovoltaic Membrane System - A photovoltaic membrane system is provided for use on a building and, optionally, incorporated into the building envelope. One or more photovoltaic cells are provided at an upper layer of the system. A thermal barrier is disposed between the one or more photovoltaic cells and the building, isolating the two from one another. The thermal barrier may be provided as a series of wedges that are shaped and oriented to optimize electrical performance of the photovoltaic cells. An air channel assembly may be provided to ventilate heated air from beneath the one or more photovoltaic modules away from the system and the building. The system may be integrally associated with the building or removably coupled therewith. Components may be provided for assembly during installation or preassembled modules may be provided for installation. | 05-07-2009 |
20090120016 | Solar Panel Supporting System - A solar panel supporting system includes a main frame, a solar panel, and a spring mechanism. The main frame has two opposite lateral sides. The solar panel is pivotally mounted on the main frame along a first pivot axis defined by a first rod extending between the opposite lateral sides of the main frame. The spring mechanism is operatively coupled to the solar panel for resiliently holding the solar panel at a predetermined position. The solar panel is adapted to pivot in response to wind strong enough to stretch or compress the spring mechanism. | 05-14-2009 |
20090133340 | Photovoltaic Roofing Elements Including Tie Layer Systems, And Roofs Using Them, And Methods For Making Them - The present invention relates generally to photovoltaic devices. The present invention relates more particularly to photovoltaic roofing products in which a photovoltaic element is joined to a roofing substrate. In one embodiment, the present invention provides a photovoltaic roofing element comprising: an encapsulated photovoltaic element having a top surface and a bottom surface, a top layer material at its top surface and a bottom layer material at its bottom surface; a roofing substrate having a top surface; and a tie layer system disposed between the encapsulated photovoltaic element and the roofing substrate and joining the bottom surface of the encapsulated photovoltaic element to the top surface of the roofing substrate. | 05-28-2009 |
20090205270 | Structured Photovoltaic Roofing Elements, Systems and Kits - The present invention relates generally to the photovoltaic generation of electrical energy. The present invention relates more particularly to photovoltaic roofing elements having a structured profile. For example, one aspect of the invention is a structured photovoltaic roofing element including: a structured roofing substrate presenting on its top-facing surface a plurality of differently-shadowable zones; and a plurality of bypassable photovoltaic elements, each of the bypassable photovoltaic elements comprising a bypass diode connected in parallel with a photovoltaic element, each of the bypassable photovoltaic elements being disposed in a differently-shadowable zone; wherein one or more of the bypassable photovoltaic elements is disposed in a different differently-shadowable zone than one or more of the other bypassable photovoltaic elements. | 08-20-2009 |
20090211182 | Modular Element With Photovoltaic Module - The invention relates to a modular construction element used to close a building roof, in particular a flat roof, comprising a first face inclined with respect to a horizontal plane, having at least one transparent or translucent portion suitable for allowing natural light to illuminate the inside of the building; a second face inclined with respect to a horizontal plane, of opposite orientation to the first face, having at least one solar panel comprising at least one photovoltaic module; and at least part of the faces of the modular element comprising at least one thermal and/or acoustic insulation layer. | 08-27-2009 |
20090255194 | TRANSPARENT SUSTAINABLE WALL SYSTEM - A sustainable energy saving wall utilizing recyclable materials is disclosed for use in construction where the wall provides natural light to the interior of the structure while also providing support without the need for further load bearing structure. | 10-15-2009 |
20090282755 | PHOTOVOLTAIC MOUNTING SYSTEM WITH LOCKING CONNECTORS, ADJUSTABLE RAIL HEIGHT AND HINGE LOCK - A cam-actuated connection device joins rail mounting members of a photovoltaic panel array. The connection device slides within channels of mounting members until the members are in a properly positioned grid. When in position, the connection device is rotated to lock the mounting members in a rigid grid network. The connecting device can be subsequently loosened, repositioned and locked into position. The rail-mounting members create a grid for installation of multiple PV panels. The mounting rail allows the unit to remain relatively compact in nature but still covers a wide range of PV panel thicknesses. The rail system has a hinged connection with the mounting rail that allows an installer to assemble the module in a near perpendicular fashion to the mounting rail, make the required electrical connections and then lower the PV module into its working position. The unit is then locked into its working position. | 11-19-2009 |
20090293383 | Solar Panel Roof Mounting System Having Integrated Standoff - A solar panel roof mounting system, including: a first elongated member having a U-shaped or C-shaped channel therein; and a second elongated member having a U-shaped or C-shaped channel therein, wherein the second elongated member is received into the first elongated member such that the U-shaped or C-shaped channel in the second elongated member is elevated with respect to the U-shaped or C-shaped channel in the first elongated member. | 12-03-2009 |
20090308001 | Substrate and the application - This invention relates to a substrate and the application. In particular, this invention discloses a substrate which has at least one contact structure at least on one side and at least one contact structure at least on one surface of the substrate. The substrate includes a thermal insulation material comprising at least two materials selecting from a thermal energy reflecting material, a homogeneous foam material, a heterogeneous foam material, a skin material, a skeleton structured material, an electromagnetic wave shielding material. The substrate may be used to construct various articles with different features of energy saving, decoration and protection as well as simple installation for various applications. | 12-17-2009 |
20090320388 | Double-skin and moveable-sunshade facade system - A system with moveable surfaces for building facades comprises means that, in combination, are capable of providing a “double-skin” for said facades during the cold season and of shading the facades from the sun during the hot season. Said system comprises a plurality of sunshade slats and of panes in which the sunshade slats and the panes are moveable. | 12-31-2009 |
20090320389 | PHOTOVOLTAIC SHINGLES FOR ROOFING AND METHOD FOR CONNECTING THE SHINGLES - A shingle including a flexible sheet; a photovoltaic panel attached to the flexible sheet; an electrical conductive path extending from a first side of the shingle to an opposite side of the shingle; a connector on one end of the electrical conductive path, and a mating connector on an opposite end of the electrical conductive path. | 12-31-2009 |
20100000165 | SOLAR ROOF - A solar roof ( | 01-07-2010 |
20100018135 | Rooftop photovoltaic systems - Provided are easy-to-install rooftop photovoltaic systems. One rooftop photovoltaic system includes a roofing material piece, a photovoltaic module disposed on the roofing material piece and an inverter configured to convert DC from the photovoltaic module into AC. Another rooftop photovoltaic system includes at least one active unit including one or more photovoltaic modules each including photovoltaic cells shaped as shingles to provide a roofing material appearance; and one or more inactive units having the roofing material appearance. | 01-28-2010 |
20100031590 | INSULATING GLAZING UNIT COMPRISING A CURVED PANE - In an insulating glazing unit including at least one curved rigid pane, another rigid pane and a spacer frame joining the two panes together by an impermeable adhesive, a space is created between the panes. The spacer frame has a variable cross-section over its length, looking in the direction of its longitudinal extension, in the region of the joining between the curved rigid pane and the other rigid pane. The spacer frame, in at least in the aforementioned region, includes a plastically deformed elastomer material when the two rigid panes are mutually pressed together. | 02-11-2010 |
20100043319 | SOLAR PANEL READY TILES - A roofing tile solar power generation system includes an array of solar panel ready tiles installed upon the roof of a house and that delivers power to a central control unit and that may be controlled either locally by a computing system or remotely via a server. The solar panel ready tiles include a solar panel ready tile body having a cavity to receive a solar panel and electrical connects to service same. The solar panel ready tile includes communication pathway connection plugs. The cavity receives a solar panel. A cover may protect the solar panel or the cavity prior to installation of the solar panel. The solar panel ready system may also optionally have sub-panel control system, consisting of one or more of their own power bus interface, communication interface, memory, power status indicators and lighting modules, plurality of sensors and a processing unit. | 02-25-2010 |
20100050544 | STRIP ASSEMBLY - Strip assembly consisting of a number of strips which are hingeably attached in order to influence or not to influence light. Strips can be displaced between two positions by static charging/discharging with respect to a support attached in proximity to the strip. A voltage source is present to provide the strips/further electrodes with the respective voltage. The strips can be configured to be (partially) non-transparent, allowing all manner of light effects to be obtained. In addition, it is possible to configure various strips differently. The strips preferably consist of a foil material so an especially simple construction may be realized with the aid of a film hinge. Suitable materials include polycarbonate, polyester or plastics material based on aromatics. The surface resistance is preferably at most 1000 MΩ. A broad range of uses are possible. One use is that in greenhouses but the present invention can also be applied at other locations where protection from light is necessary or specific light effects are desired. | 03-04-2010 |
20100064605 | Modular photovoltaic element for building roofs - A modular photovoltaic element for building roofs comprising:
| 03-18-2010 |
20100071278 | Building Integrated Power Generating System - A power generating system is integrated within an exterior shell or façade of a building structure. The energy generating devices (which can be photovoltaic), control units and associated power/signal wiring are incorporated and integrated within individual unitized curtain wall units making up the façade. Electrical power can be more advantageously generated from surface areas of building structures previously untapped for solar energy harvesting. | 03-25-2010 |
20100071279 | UL Compliant Building Integrated Photovoltaic Conversion System - A UL compliant power generating system is integrated within an exterior shell or façade of a building structure. The energy generating devices (which can be photovoltaic), control units and associated power/signal wiring are incorporated and integrated within individual unitized curtain wall units making up the façade, and are adapted to be UL compliant. | 03-25-2010 |
20100071280 | Unitized Building Integrated Photovoltaic Conversion Module - An energy conversion device is adapted to be housed within a unitized curtain wall unit as part of an exterior shell or façade of a building structure. The device can be a photovoltaic module that includes other power generating system components—including control units and associated power/signal wiring—within the façade. | 03-25-2010 |
20100071281 | Unitized Building Integrated Photovoltaic Conversion Module Adapted With Electrical Isolation and Grounding - An energy conversion device is adapted to be housed within a unitized curtain wall unit as part of an exterior shell or façade of a building structure. The device can be a photovoltaic module that includes grounding and isolation elements within the curtain wall unit. | 03-25-2010 |
20100071282 | Unitized Building Integrated Photovoltaic Conversion Module Adapted With Electrical Conduits - An energy conversion device is adapted to be housed within a unitized curtain wall unit as part of an exterior shell or façade of a building structure. The device can be a photovoltaic module that includes integrated wiring conduits within an associated curtain wall unit. | 03-25-2010 |
20100077679 | STRUCTURE INSTALLATION STAND - A structure installation stand | 04-01-2010 |
20100077680 | ELECTRIC TILE MODULES - The electrically connectable tile module includes a porous substrate having a top side, a bottom side, and at least two side edges. At least one connector is integrated into the porous substrate allowing adjoining electrically connectable the modules to be electrically connected to the porous substrate. At least one electrical element is disposed over the top side of the porous substrate and electrically connected to the at least one connector. | 04-01-2010 |
20100095609 | COMPLEX GENERATOR USING SOLAR AND WIND AND WAVE - A combined power generator using solar, wind and wave energies is disclosed. The combined power generator comprises a steel tower structure ( | 04-22-2010 |
20100095610 | Venting Apparatus and Methods - A building has an interior space, a first wall surface, and a vent. A vortex guide baffle is positioned at least partially separating a vortex chamber from a remainder of the interior space. The vent is along the vortex chamber. The vortex chamber has an inlet opening from the remainder at the wall. | 04-22-2010 |
20100126087 | Plank Based Photovoltaic Conversion System - A power generating system includes a series of interconnected photovoltaic plank units, each made of multiple PV panels secured to a building structure spandrel area. The PV planks are adapted to be readily mounted to reduce installation time and cost. Electrical power can be more advantageously generated from surface areas of building structures such as commercial garages, overpasses and similar concrete facades previously untapped for solar energy harvesting. | 05-27-2010 |
20100132274 | STRUCTURE FOR MOUNTING ON A BUILDING WALL FRAMES FOR HOLDING PANELS SUCH AS PHOTOVOLTAIC PANELS - Structure ( | 06-03-2010 |
20100132275 | ROOF PANEL FOR ROOFING SYSTEM AND ROOF STRUCTURE - A roof panel system assembled from roof panels comprising a panel portion bounded along a support edge by a support element and along an opposed cover edge by a cover element. The cover element adapted to rest upon and provide resilient sealing and locking engagement with the support element of an adjacent panel. The support element adapted to provide resilient support and locking engagement with the cover element of a second adjacent panel. In an embodiment a panel cover is provided for shielding an upper surface of the panel portion and adapted to inter-fit and lock with engaged support element and cover element pairs along the support element and the cover element of the panel when the panel is engaged with adjacent panels when assembled. In an embodiment contoured insulated panels are provided as a base to support the panels. The contours providing passageways to allow the transport of air beneath the panels when assembled. | 06-03-2010 |
20100139184 | GREEN ROOF TILE SYSTEM AND METHODS OF USE - Green roof systems are provided comprising a plurality of tile sheets. Each tile sheet in turn may comprise a plurality of tiles. The tiles are connected to one another by one or more bridges. The tile sheets may be disposed above a layer of growing medium. The tiles are spaced apart from one another so as to form a channel between each tile. The channels formed between the adjacent tiles are contiguous with neighboring channels and are arranged so as to form a circuitous pathway for water runoff. The channels so formed allow plant growth between each tile. Advantages of certain embodiments include improved strength, reduced weight, reduced costs, increased life spans, reduced maintenance, easier installation, improved building energy conservation, reduced urban island heat effect, improved sound insulation, improved water retention, improved environmental aspects, improved irrigation, and reduced erosion of the growing medium. | 06-10-2010 |
20100146877 | MOUNTING SUPPORT FOR A PHOTOVOLTAIC MODULE - A mounting support for a photovoltaic module is described. The mounting support includes a foundation having an integrated wire-way ledge portion. A photovoltaic module support mechanism is coupled with the foundation. | 06-17-2010 |
20100146878 | PHOTOVOLTAIC ROOFING ELEMENTS, PHOTOVOLTAIC ROOFING SYSTEMS, METHODS AND KITS - The present invention relates generally to the photovoltaic generation of electrical energy. The present invention relates more particularly to photovoltaic roofing products for use in photovoltaically generating electrical energy. One aspect of the invention is a photovoltaic roofing element comprising: a flexible roofing substrate; a photovoltaic element disposed on the flexible roofing substrate; and an electrical connector operatively coupled to the photovoltaic element, wherein the flexible roofing substrate has formed therein a recess shaped to at least partially receive the electrical connector. | 06-17-2010 |
20100154327 | BEARING FRAME FOR AN ELECTRICALLY ACTIVE PANEL SUCH AS PHOTOVOLTAIC PANEL - Supporting frame for an electrically active panel comprising a peripheral structure ( | 06-24-2010 |
20100162641 | BEARING FRAME FOR A PANEL SUCH AS A PHOTOELECTRIC PANEL AND BUILDING EXTERNAL WALL INCLUDING SUCH FRAMES - The invention relates to a bearing frame for a panel, of the type comprising a peripheral structure ( | 07-01-2010 |
20100170169 | Shingled Roof with Integrated Photovoltaic Collectors - A solar insert for shingled roofs includes an insert with a generally wedge-shaped body designed to be installed beneath a shingle and a face that is exposed and extends along a lower edge of the shingle. The face preferably is angled with respect to the shingle and a solar collector in the form of a thin-film solar strip is mounted to and extends along the face. The inserts of multiple shingles are electrically coupled together to form an electrical grid for aggregating the electrical energy of the individual solar collectors and delivering it to a remote location for storage or use. In a second embodiment, a shingle has a solar collector strip mounted to its surface extending along a forward edge of the shingle, and in another, the solar collector surrounds the tabs of their shingles. The solar collectors not only generate electrical energy from the sun; they also enhance the appearance of a shingled roof by providing a look of increased thickness and texture. | 07-08-2010 |
20100175337 | Flexible roof-mount system and method for solar panels - Systems and methods are disclosed for efficiently securing solar panels on a roof surface that does not require penetration of the roof membrane. Supports for the solar panels are designed with a small footprint with sufficient spacing to allow free drainage between the supports. A simple, low-cost attachment member or clip can be integrated with each support to attach the panel to the support, and in some instances the clip (or its mount on the support) can also be used to lift the support to the roof. The panels can include one or more rails that can slide through a loosened clip, but be held securely in place by a tightened clip. The panels can be installed initially with the clips grasping the rails loosely and once the supports and rails are in their final positions, the clips can be fully tightened to form a rigid solar panel array. | 07-15-2010 |
20100175338 | SOLAR ENERGY-COLLECTING ARCHITECTURAL ENCLOSURE PANEL AND WALKABLE SOLAR ENERGY-COLLECTING ROOF - The solar energy-collecting architectural enclosure panel includes outer and inner plates which are mutually facing and joined by a leak-tight joint along a closed perimeter separated at a distance from perimetric edges of the panel. The outer and inner plates include within the closed perimeter hollow conformations to form a circuit for a heat-carrying fluid with an inlet and an outlet. Adjacent to opposite longitudinal edges of the outer plate there are first longitudinal stiffening configurations and adjacent to opposite longitudinal edges of the inner plate there are second longitudinal stiffening configurations configured to rest on transverse elements of a structure. The outer and inner plates are furthermore joined by a mechanical connection in expected maximum bending stress areas adjacent to the opposite longitudinal edges of the outer and inner plates. | 07-15-2010 |
20100180523 | Photovoltaic Roof Covering - A photovoltaic roof covering comprising a collection of a plurality of elements in the form of tiles, shingles or panels, electrically connected to one another, a part of said elements being covered by the adjacent elements in the collection and a part or portion being exposed to the outside, said elements comprising a backing material comprising an interior face and an exterior face, a photovoltaic layer arranged at least over that portion of the exterior face of the backing material that is exposed to the outside in the collection, electrical conduction means positioned on each side of said photovoltaic layer and configured to collect the electrical current generated by said layer when it is exposed to light, said means in particular comprising a first connector connected to one electrical pole of the photovoltaic layer and a second connector connected to another electrical pole of the photovoltaic layer, said covering being characterized in that at least one of the connectors present on at least one of said elements comprises, consists of, or is incorporated into, a foldable moving tongue or strip and in that said tongue or said strip is kept, in the collection, in electrical contact with a connector of the previous element of said collection and in a position that is folded over between the two successive elements. | 07-22-2010 |
20100180524 | ENERGY SUPPLYING DEVICE - The present disclosure relates to an energy supplying device intended to be used for energy collection, energy transfer and energy release, but also for cooling and storing energy, which energy supplier has at least one elongated cavity, produced by the extrusion of at least one profile in a direction of extrusion by using at least one tool, said cavity provides space for at least one medium, such as air or fluid, to circulate or be stored in the energy supplier. Said cavity is enclosed by at least one formation constituting, for example, a wall, floor or roof formation, said formation constitutes at least part of an actively supporting structure, for direct or indirect mechanical support of loads, whilst at the same time forming at least one part of a structural element, for example to form a house roof, a wall, a board, a bridge, a pier, a road, a pavement, a terrace or balcony, said actively supporting structure, which statically has a predetermined wall thickness, and which is the strongest part of the energy supplier for supporting the load directed principally transversely to the direction of extrusion, includes, in an imaginary section transverse to the direction of extrusion, at least one beam formation, which is statically dimensioned to resist predetermined loads and is constructed, for example, as an I-, L-, O-, T-, U-, V-, X-, Y- or Z-beam. | 07-22-2010 |
20100186320 | SYSTEM FOR FLAT-ROOF INSTALLATION OF SOLAR MODULES - A flat-roof installation set for solar collector modules ( | 07-29-2010 |
20100199577 | Cover for an object using solar radiation - A cover for an object using solar radiation includes a cover sheet made of a material transparent to solar radiation, wherein, viewed in cross-sectional view with respect to the sheet, the sheet has a zigzag profiled surface structure on either side. A combination of two covers has cover plates of each of the covers above one another, in particular running parallel to one another. Moreover, a combination of a cover and an object has the cover covering the object and the object uses, absorbs, and converts solar radiation. | 08-12-2010 |
20100205877 | Mounting system for securing a photovoltaic device and method for its use - A mounting system for securing a photovoltaic device to a surface is provided in accordance with an exemplary embodiment. The mounting system includes one or more mounting members for securing an inactive area of the photovoltaic device to the surface. The mounting members are configured so the inactive area is non-destructively detachable from the surface and the photovoltaic device is not made incapable of operation due the detachment process. In an exemplary embodiment, the mounting system includes a unique configuration of mounting members for securing the photovoltaic device against the surface during a predetermined load condition imposed upon the photovoltaic device. | 08-19-2010 |
20100218441 | Wind Uplift Resistant Module Mounting System - Methods and devices are provided for improved rooftop solar module mounting assemblies. In one embodiment, an assembly is provided for mounting a plurality of photovoltaic devices over a roof surface. The assembly comprises of a plurality of elongate metal rods, wherein the elongate metal rods are connected together to define a support grid; a plurality of non-roof penetrating grid supports configured to elevate the support grid above the roof surface, wherein the panels are grouped to define a rigid combination of modules and beams wherein the combination covers sufficient area and has sufficient rigidity which minimizes the risk of module lift off. Some embodiments are non-ballasted systems without features added to increase the weight of the system above a minimum required for conventional wind load ballasting for solar installations. | 09-02-2010 |
20100223864 | Wireless solar shingle panel and a method for implementing same - A shingle and method is provided, wherein the shingle includes a shingle back having at least one back conductive trace and a shingle front configured to securely include at least one solar cell. The shingle front includes at least one front conductive trace configurable such that when the shingle front includes a solar cell, the solar cell is conductively connected to the at least one front conductive trace in a series fashion. At least one of the back conductive traces is conductively connected to at least one of the front conductive traces. The back conductive traces and the front conductive traces are configured such that when the shingle is associated with a like shingle, the back conductive trace of the like shingle is conductively connected to the at least one front conductive trace of the shingle to be in a series fashion. | 09-09-2010 |
20100223865 | SUPPORT OF A SOLAR TRACKER - The invention relates to improvements in the support of a solar tracker, of the type comprising a structure ( | 09-09-2010 |
20100229477 | Decoration Solar Panel Bridge Supplying Power Sources - A decoration solar panel bridge supplying power sources, for commercial and residential applications, incorporates at least one solar panel in a decoration bridge comprising members of frame, cross brace and board. The wide boards including solar panels cover straight beams and cross braces as a partial or full surface of the bridge. The slice boards cover the top arc beams or alternative round beams as partial surfaces of the bridge. Each solar panel output power and dimension can be designed for desired power consumption and needed. The alternative frame members can be used to construct different shapes of the bridge and can replace the curve shape frame members. The decoration bridge includes optional members: safety fence members, supporting members and handrail members. Solar powered lights can be installed at the top of safety poles and solar powered light stands can replace the vertical spindle of handrails. | 09-16-2010 |
20100236164 | PHOTOVOLTAIC GREENHOUSE STRUCTURE - A photovoltaic greenhouse includes a house structure having upstanding walls and a roof thereover to enclose a greenhouse space therein, and at least one thin-film solar cell module mounted on the roof for converting solar energy within a pre-selected light band of sunlight into electricity, wherein light not absorbed by the thin-film solar cell module passes through and enters the greenhouse space, which can be utilized by plants or crops for photosynthesis. The thin-film solar cell module has high transmittance of light in the wavelength intervals, for example, 400-450 nm and 640-700 nm, required by the cultured plants or crops inside the greenhouse space for photosynthesis. | 09-23-2010 |
20100236165 | SOLAR ROOFING SYSTEM - 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. | 09-23-2010 |
20100242381 | PHOTOVOLTAIC SYSTEMS, METHODS FOR INSTALLING PHOTOVOLTAIC SYSTEMS, AND KITS FOR INSTALLING PHOTOVOLTAIC SYSTEMS - The present invention relates particularly to photovoltaic systems for use in photovoltaically generating electrical energy. One aspect of the invention is a photovoltaic roofing system disposed on a roof deck. The photovoltaic roofing system includes one or more photovoltaic elements contiguously disposed on the roof deck, the contiguously-disposed photovoltaic elements defining a photovoltaic area; a plurality of roofing elements disposed adjacent the contiguously-disposed photovoltaic elements, along their side edges; side flashing disposed along the side edges of the contiguously-disposed photovoltaic elements, the side flashing having a cross-sectional shape comprising a vertically-extending feature and a flange extending from each lateral side at the bottom of the vertically-extending feature, with the flange facing the photovoltaic area being at least partially disposed between a photovoltaic element and the roof deck, and the flange facing away from the photovoltaic area being at least partially disposed between a roofing element and the roof deck. | 09-30-2010 |
20100269428 | Cost Effective, Elongate Member Mounting System For Photovoltaic Devices - Methods and devices are provided for improved rooftop solar module mounting assemblies. In one embodiment, an assembly is provided for mounting a plurality of photovoltaic devices over a roof surface. The assembly comprises of a plurality of elongate metal rods, wherein the elongate metal rods are connected together to define a support grid; a plurality of non-roof penetrating grid supports configured to elevate the support grid above the roof surface; and a plurality of grid-to-roof anchors that secure the entire support grid over the roof surface, wherein the number of grid-to-roof anchors is less than about ¼ of the number of non-roof penetrating grid supports to minimize the number of locations where water may enter the roof surface. | 10-28-2010 |
20100269429 | Rooftop Photovoltaic Module Mounting System - A rooftop photovoltaic module mounting system includes a footer and a photovoltaic module mounting framework. | 10-28-2010 |
20100269430 | ADJUSTABLE MOUNTING ASSEMBLY FOR STANDING SEAM PANELS - An adjustable mounting assembly ( | 10-28-2010 |
20100275532 | SOLAR ROOF TILE WITH SOLAR AND PHOTOVOLTAIC PRODUCTION OF HOT WATER AND ELECTRICAL ENERGY - Object of the invention is a system composed of a special Tile, adequate to cover the whole roof, thermally insulating, ventilated, with no environmental impact, producing solar and photovoltaic energy, adequate for the production of hot water and/or electrical energy. The two functions, thermal and photovoltaic, are meant to be operated in synergy, obtaining the best result, or independently. For instance, the photovoltaic can help the thermal system, in case the covered surfaces are too small for the heating needs of the building, or in non-ideal climates, sending part of the electrical energy to electrical water heaters positioned in the boiler, to complement hot water production during low irradiation seasons. The roof thus obtained is optimal in any climate; in areas subject to snowfall the snow will melt on the tiles that anyway develop heat; in hot areas during the summer very high temperatures will be achieved, thus it will be possible to transform with heat exchangers the heat produced in cooling, obtaining air conditioning or cold water below the floor. Also, it will be possible to obtain heated water for pools from the excess of hot water both in the summer and in the winter. | 11-04-2010 |
20100275533 | DUMPSTER WITH SOLAR PANELS - The present invention provides the combination of a garbage dumpster, one or more solar panels, and a storage pod for receiving the dumpster. The garbage dumpster has lifting elements for lifting the dumpster to be emptied. The storage pod has a flat surface for receiving and storing the garbage dumpster. Also, one or more solar panels are connected to the storage pod and located above the storage pod for collecting the solar energy. An inverter is connected to the solar panels for converting the solar energy to electric energy. In addition, a storage battery is connected to the inverter for collecting the electric energy for future use. | 11-04-2010 |
20100275534 | Continuous circuit overlay solar shingles - A solar roofing system includes components that can be made to mimic traditional tabbed asphalt roofing shingles in size, shape, and performance. Additionally, the shingles also include photovoltaic devices embedded in the shingle tabs. Shingles are installed in a traditional manner using traditional tools and fasteners in offset and overlapping rows. Electrical connectivity among tabs is made by contact between top and bottom surfaces of shingles without the need for additional wiring or hardware. The system includes multiple shingle shapes including a variation that can be cut apart into separate tabs. This solar roofing system can be integrated with non-photovoltaic components to fit irregularities found in a variety of roof surfaces. The system, once installed, creates a redundancy of electrical connectivity throughout a roof surface to allow for interruptions and irregularities in the roof surface and to allow for highly reliable output performance. | 11-04-2010 |
20100281794 | DEVICE FOR HOLDING PHOTOVOLTAIC PANELS ON A ROOF, INCLUDING HOLDING MEANS ALLOWING AN AIR FLOW BETWEEN A BASE PLANE AND THE PHOTOVOLTAIC PANEL - The invention relates to a device for holding at least one photovoltaic panel on a roof, characterised in that it comprises: a base plane extending between two fixation wings; holding means for said photovoltaic panel(s) extending vertically relative to said base plane in order to define an air volume between said base plane and said photovoltaic panel(s), said holding means including air inlet/outlet means that permit air circulation in said air volume. | 11-11-2010 |
20100287852 | Modular elements for building roofs - Modular elements for roofs of buildings, comprising curved channel tiles ( | 11-18-2010 |
20100293874 | SYSTEM FOR MOUNTING A PHOTOVOLTAIC MODULE TO A SURFACE - A system for removably and adjustably mounting a device on an object is provided. The system for removably and adjustably mounting a device on an object, according to the present invention, includes an apparatus and method useful for removably and adjustably mounting one or more photovoltaic modules on an object such as a pole or roof, and includes one or more triple track rails. Also included are one or more connector brackets that are demountably attachable to the one or more triple track rails and to the object. | 11-25-2010 |
20100313499 | Roof mounting bracket for photovoltaic power generation system - Multiple brackets are used together to support photovoltaic cells upon a roof. Each bracket includes a mounting rail at an upper side and a bottom rail at a lower side. The bottom rail of one bracket is configured to overlap the mounting rail of another bracket. Lateral joints on each bracket overlap each other to connect adjacent panels of photovoltaic cells. Cell support structures are interposed between the mounting rail and bottom rail to support a photovoltaic stack assembly thereon. Wind clips allow the bottom rail of a higher bracket to be interconnected with a mounting rail of a lower bracket. An undulating end piece allows airflow to enter beneath a lowest bracket and pass up beneath the brackets to provide cooling air for the overall system of photovoltaic cells mounted upon the brackets. Edge flashing precludes water migration laterally at edges of the panels. | 12-16-2010 |
20100313500 | SUPPORTING STRUCTURE FOR AN OPEN-SPACE PHOTOVOLTAIC SYSTEM - A supporting structure for an open-space photovoltaic system with several ground supports arranged in at least two mutually parallel rows oriented in essentially North-South direction and installed vertically in the ground, with beams supported on free ends of the ground supports located at the same location along a row, and with module rails attached to the beams for attachment of fastening means for photovoltaic modules. The module rails are secured on or between two corresponding adjacent beams in essentially North-South direction. The free ends of the ground supports are positioned at the same height above terrain ground, so that the beams and the module rails extend essentially plane-parallel to the terrain ground. This arrangement reduces material consumption, and only a small surface area of the supporting structure is effectively exposed to wind gusts. Each row of ground supports includes ground supports with both rigid and flexible flexural characteristics. | 12-16-2010 |
20100313501 | Roof mounting bracket for photovoltaic power generation system - Multiple brackets are used together to support photovoltaic cells upon a roof. Each bracket includes a mounting rail at an upper side and a bottom rail at a lower side. The bottom rail of one bracket is configured to overlap the mounting rail of another bracket. Lateral joints on each bracket overlap each other to connect adjacent panels of photovoltaic cells. Cell support structures are interposed between the mounting rail and bottom rail to support a photovoltaic stack assembly thereon. Wind clips allow the bottom rail of a higher bracket to be interconnected with a mounting rail of a lower bracket. An undulating end piece allows airflow to enter beneath a lowest bracket and pass up beneath the brackets to provide cooling air for the overall system of photovoltaic cells mounted upon the brackets. Edge flashing precludes water migration laterally at edges of the panels. | 12-16-2010 |
20100319277 | MODULAR STRUCTURAL FRAMING SYSTEM - The present invention generally relates to a modular, structural framing system. | 12-23-2010 |
20100325975 | Modular ballast system for membrane roofs - A ballast system for roof membranes includes connected modules filled with loose-fill ballast and adapted to hold a predetermined volume of water for at least a predetermined period of time on the roof to control runoff. | 12-30-2010 |
20100325976 | SOLAR SHINGLE SYSTEM - The present invention comprises an asphalt roofing shingle with integrated thin film solar cells that is easy to install and scalable to each particular application. The system of the present invention comprises a standard asphalt roofing shingle manufactured with an integrated thin film solar cell connected to two electrodes configured on opposing sides of the shingle. The shingle is dimensioned to that of a standard asphalt shingle. Roofing nails, which are used to install the shingle to the roof, physically attach the shingle to the roof, may also establish an electrical connection between the electrodes of the respective shingles creating a unified electrical circuit amongst the attached solar shingles. | 12-30-2010 |
20110000151 | SUPPORT RAIL - The invention pertains to a support rail for a solar collector, i.e., a rail for accommodating and mounting a solar collector. | 01-06-2011 |
20110000152 | MULTIFUNCTIONAL ENERGY MANAGEMENT BUILDING CLADDING - This invention relates to a building cladding for inclined surfaces such as for a sloped roof. More specifically, this invention relates to a building cladding that is passively responsive to sun elevation angles, is multi-functional, and is substantially uniformly ornamental when viewed from common viewing positions. The cladding is predominantly comprised of pairs of substantially horizontal and vertical surfaces extended horizontally and repeated vertically or along the incline of the building substrate. Substantially horizontal surfaces may be adapted for absorbing solar energy, reflecting solar energy, generating electricity from solar energy, converting solar energy into another form of energy, and or ornamentally matching substantially vertical surfaces. | 01-06-2011 |
20110000153 | Photovoltaic Roofing Tile with Fire Suppression - A photovoltaic roofing tile has a substrate, a photovoltaic laminate positioned over the substrate, and a fire suppression material arranged proximate a first end of the substrate. A plurality the photovoltaic roofing tiles are arranged on a roof deck in an overlapping relationship. | 01-06-2011 |
20110005152 | STRUT RUNNER MEMBER AND ASSEMBLY USING SAME FOR MOUNTING ARRAYS ON ROOFTOPS AND OTHER STRUCTURES - A strut runner includes a member extending lengthwise in a first direction, where the member includes an underlying panel and one or more walls that extend from the panel. The member may be configured to at least partially support the panel array while being integrated or directly connected to the underlying structure. Additionally, the strut runner may include one or more peripheral extensions that extend a distance outward from the body. | 01-13-2011 |
20110041428 | ROOF STRUCTURE FOR A SOLAR SYSTEM - A roof structure ( | 02-24-2011 |
20110041429 | PROFILES FOR FIXING RIGID PLATES - The present invention relates to profiles for attaching rigid plates, especially photovoltaic modules, to a roof and to a method and system for attaching photovoltaic modules to a roof structure with the help of profiles. | 02-24-2011 |
20110047902 | Photovoltaic shingle - A photovoltaic shingle uses a tab shingle body onto which an electrical grid is disposed. A thin film photovoltaic film overlays the wire grid and is electrically coupled to the grid using the shingle body as its substrate. The grid is electrically coupled to a series of leads such that the leads electrically couple to a conduction strip that is attached to a roof underlayment, the strip making a horizontal run on the roof. Each conduction strip is electrically connected to an electrical subsystem that provides electricity for a building and/or transfers electricity to an electrical grid. | 03-03-2011 |
20110047903 | STRUCTURE FOR SECURING SOLAR CELL MODULES AND FRAME AND SECURING MEMBER FOR SOLAR CELL MODULES - The present invention provides a solar cell module securing structure capable of securing solar cell modules without any trouble even when there is a change in temperature or the like, and also provides frames and securing members for the solar cell modules. | 03-03-2011 |
20110067327 | ISOLATION MOUNT AND PHOTOVOLTAIC MODULE AND ROOFING SYSTEM INCORPORATING THE SAME - An isolation mount for supporting, for example, a photovoltaic cell. The isolation mount includes an isolator body, a first membrane adjacent to a lower surface of the body, and a second membrane extending over the isolator body that includes a peripheral margin that is at least partially sealed or adhered to the first membrane. At least one connector is supported by the isolator body and at least one fastener extends through the second membrane to secure the connector to the isolator body. The connector may include a mounting rail, posts, or an air channel assembly. The isolation mount construction may be incorporated into a photovoltaic module or photovoltaic roofing system for use on the roof of a building. | 03-24-2011 |
20110072740 | CONCRETE PHOTOVOLTAIC SYSTEM - A concrete photovoltaic structure includes an essentially vertical support member constructed, at least in part, of concrete, wherein the essentially vertical support member includes a first portion configured to be received, at least in part, within a footing. The concrete photovoltaic structure further includes a photovoltaic support member constructed, at least in part, of concrete, wherein the photovoltaic support member is configured to be affixed to a second portion of the essentially vertical support member. | 03-31-2011 |
20110072741 | CONNECTING DEVICE FOR A FRAME STRUCTURE - A connecting device for a frame structure made of support profiles and crossbars for the arrangement of solar panels, as well as a frame structure with a connecting device, is disclosed. The connecting device has a base element, a receptacle element, and a locking device by which the receptacle element can be fixed relative to the base element on the base element. The base element has a fastening section as well as a support section with a support side facing the receptacle element. The receptacle element has a receptacle for a crossbar of the frame structure as well as an application section with an application side facing the base element. The locking device has a clamping device as well as a bearing device. An application area and at least one depression area are provided between the clamping device and the bearing device. | 03-31-2011 |
20110072742 | STEEL SUPPORT FRAME FOR A PHOTOVOLTAIC SYSTEM USABLE AS A CARPORT - A base frame for a parking lot roof equipped with photovoltaic modules is proposed, wherein two mirror-symmetrically constructed halves are provided, with each half having an inner arc constructed of three inner struts and an outer arc constructed of three outer struts, which are connected with each other by cross struts. The structure is light-weight and can be easily manufactured. | 03-31-2011 |
20110072743 | Unitized Building Integrated Photovoltaic Conversion Module - An energy conversion device is adapted to be housed within a unitized curtain wall unit as part of an exterior shell or façade of a building structure. The device can be a photovoltaic module that includes other power generating system components—including control units and associated power/signal wiring—within the façade. | 03-31-2011 |
20110083381 | Mounting for solar panels - A mounting for solar panels has fixings which enable it to be easily attached to other mountings for a solar array and can be made of recycled plastic by vacuum forming. | 04-14-2011 |
20110088340 | PANEL FOR COLLECTING SOLAR ENERGY FROM A BITUMINOUS SURFACE COVERING ON A BUILDING HEATED BY SOLAR RADIATION - A solar energy collector panel intended for invisible incorporation behind and in thermal contact with a climate shield ( | 04-21-2011 |
20110094169 | LIGHT WEIGHT MOLDED ROOF TILE - An improved roof tile that is composed of a polymeric isocyanate and water blown component, mineral fiber or fiberglass, said roof tile being molded producing a roof tile with a high R-value thermal insulation and being very light weight. Each tile includes a flat bottom surface including a groove of a predetermined pattern that receives poly foam adhesive for attaching each tile to a roof substrate. | 04-28-2011 |
20110094170 | PHOTOVOLTAIC ROOFING WIRING ARRAY, PHOTOVOLTAIC ROOFING WIRING SYSTEM AND ROOFS USING THEM - Photovoltaic wiring arrays and photovoltaic wiring systems suitable for use in rooftop photovoltaic power generation systems are provided. Accordingly, one aspect of the invention provides a photovoltaic roofing wiring array for use with a plurality of photovoltaic roofing elements, the photovoltaic roofing wiring system including: a positive parallel wiring run comprising a main line and one or more connection branches pendant from the main line, each connection branch being terminated in a positive connector; and a negative parallel wiring run comprising a main line and one or more connection branches pendant from the main line, each connection branch being terminated in a negative connector. In some embodiments of the invention, the photovoltaic roofing wiring arrays are substantially prefabricated. | 04-28-2011 |
20110094171 | Roof or Facade Panel Having a Solar Panel - A roof or façade panel with at least one surface panel that can be fastened to buildings, wherein the surface panel is foamed directly with a carrier layer of foamed plastic, and wherein the surface panel comprises a solar panel. | 04-28-2011 |
20110099923 | Solar Array Foundation and Installation - Concepts and technologies described herein provide for a cost-effective method and system for installing a solar array without utilizing a concrete foundation that supports a mast. According to various aspects, a solar array is attached to a helical anchor via a solar tracking mechanism. The helical anchor is a one-piece apparatus that is screwed into the ground so that the helical anchor includes an above-ground portion for connection to the solar array, and an underground portion that provides the foundation for supporting the solar array. The specific configuration of the helical anchor and a corresponding helical anchor blade may be selected according to soil and environmental characteristics associated with the installation location. | 05-05-2011 |
20110113704 | WATER-RESISTANT APPARATUSES FOR PHOTOVOLTAIC MODULES - A water-resistant apparatus is provided. This water-resistant apparatus is positioned near a photovoltaic module. The water-resistant apparatus includes hollow, elongated conduits, and each conduit can hold water with surface tension based on exposure of the conduit to water. The surface tension causes a formation of a meniscus that inhibits a flow of water through the conduit. | 05-19-2011 |
20110113705 | ROAD SHELTERING AND OPTIMIZATION - A structure for sheltering and optimizing highway systems includes an arcuate structure extending over a highway and a cover over the structure to create an enclosure. The enclosure protects the highway and users of the highway from rain, snow and sun while the surrounding scenery remains visible to drivers. A number of different additions optimize use of the highway. For example, a plurality of solar panels are layered on the cover and wind turbines are used to create usable energy, an air current generation system reduces wind resistance on vehicles to increase gas mileage, and an elevated rail system transports many persons great distances along the highway. | 05-19-2011 |
20110138710 | BUILDING-INTEGRATED SOLAR-PANEL ROOF ELEMENT SYSTEMS - The present invention provides a building-integrated solar-panel roof element, such as a photovoltaic (BIPV) roof element, adapted to be fitted with a solar panel and integrated in a pitched roof, as well as such a building-integrated roof element fitted with a photovoltaic or solar thermal panel, and an array of these solar energy roof elements mounted on a pitched roof. | 06-16-2011 |
20110138711 | Integrated Photovoltaic Roof Assembly - This invention generally relates to an integrated photovoltaic roof assembly for constructing a building integrated photovoltaic system commonly known as BIPV. The invention enables the photovoltaic panels to serve as a water proof envelop of a building while generating electricity from the sun. The photovoltaic roof assembly consists of a plurality of solar panels fitted to a lattice mounting structure comprises of perpendicularly interconnected profiles with flushed surfaces and built-in gutters. There are few components required and no restriction on the gradient of the roof. Neither skilled labor nor special tool such as welding is required for installing the integrated photovoltaic roof assembly. | 06-16-2011 |
20110154749 | OUTER FRAME DRAINAGE STRUCTURE OF CONCENTRATOR TYPE SOLAR CELL MODULE - An outer frame drainage structure of a concentrator type solar cell module, wherein, a drainage element having a predetermined height is disposed between a side board and a frame edge, hereby keeping a drainage slit between said side board and the corresponding frame edge, so that moisture will not remain inside the concentrator type solar cell module, thus the concentrator type solar cell module is able to operate in an optimal light-to-electricity conversion efficiency. In a structure mentioned above, a concave slit is formed through engaging and positioning an extended and bent positioning portion of the side board into a positioning slot of the frame edge, and the concave slit is linked to the drainage slit, thus facilitating exit of moisture and preventing intrusion of foreign objects effectively. | 06-30-2011 |
20110154750 | FASTENING SYSTEM FOR A PLATE-SHAPED STRUCTURAL ELEMENT - A fastening system for a plate-shaped structural element on a pitched roof is provided. The plate-shaped structural element is bordered in a water-tight manner in a frame and fully replaces the roof covering, and the eaves-side and ridge-side cross beams of the frame which run transversely to the ridge-eaves direction have profiles which are matched to each other and engage in each other. The top side of the eaves-side cross beam has a mounting that surrounds the edge of the plate-shaped structural element, and the bottom side thereof has a support for fastening to the roof structure. The support includes a web that extends from the mounting to the support, a protrusion extending beneath the mounting receives an extension that extends from the ridge-side cross beam thereof. | 06-30-2011 |
20110162299 | MODULAR UNIT FOR CREATING LOAD-BEARING STRUCTURES, FOR USE AS A CONSTRUCTION AND/OR SUPPORT FOR A SOLAR CARPET - A modular unit ( | 07-07-2011 |
20110162300 | PHOTOVOLTAIC UTILITY BUILDING - A Photovoltaic Utility Building is a structure that is portable to site, permanent power generating system. Multiple adjustable photovoltaic panels including extending panel or panels allow for the additional collection of solar energy on a base. The Photovoltaic Utility Building structure, completely wire with inverter, an A/C disconnect and out put receptacle plug is ready use as it is UL electric certified. | 07-07-2011 |
20110162301 | Solar Cell Module and Solar Cell Array - It is an object to provide a solar cell module having a uniform configuration, presenting stable output characteristics, and having a size enabling easy wiring in arrangement and a solar cell array presenting stable output characteristics by employment of said solar cell modules. | 07-07-2011 |
20110179726 | BUILDING INTEGRATED THERMAL ELECTRIC HYBRID ROOFING SYSTEM - A building integrated thermal electric hybrid roofing system is disclosed. The system comprises a plurality of metal battens having a longitudinal channel mounted horizontally onto a plurality of wooden battens, a thermal tubing containing liquid mounted on the longitudinal channels, a plurality of solar electric roof tiles mounted on the plurality of metal battens and connected in series to form a string, an inverter connected to each of the strings, a heat exchanger connected to the thermal tubing, and a pump connected between the thermal tubing and the heat exchanger. The plurality of solar electric roof tiles generates DC electricity from solar energy and the inverter converts the DC electricity to AC electricity to feed to a utility grid. The plurality of metal battens collects the solar energy and converts into thermal energy through running the liquid which is extracted to the heat exchanger resulting in producing domestic hot water. | 07-28-2011 |
20110179727 | SOLAR PANEL AND EQUIPMENT MOUNTING APPARATUS FOR ROOFS - Disclosed is an apparatus for mounting equipment or solar photovoltaic structures to roofs where the apparatus base plate engages the roof surface directly, creating a water resistant seal, without the need for flashing. The base plate upper surface includes an upwardly projected portion that is circumscribed by a groove. The base plate lower surface includes a counterbore. Both the counterbore and the groove are disposed to receive annular seals. A threaded fastener is received and seated the upwardly projected portion top surface and feeds through the counterbore, securing the base plate to the roof structure and creates a water resistant seal by compressing the lower annular seal and by creating surface-to-surface contact with the roof and portion of the base plate. An inwardly threaded cover portion engages the upwardly projected portion either directly or through an intermediary, creating a water resistant seal over the fastener. | 07-28-2011 |
20110185650 | Pre-Assembled Hip, Ridge or Rake Shingle - A hip, ridge or rake shingle is provided, in which a pair of substantially rigid panel portions are connected by a hinge portion, and wherein the shingle is pre-assembled, but can conform to a variety of different angles to accommodate different angular relationships between surfaces of a hip, ridge or rake of a roof. The substantially rigid panel portions are connected by a hinge and may or may not have a reinforcement member, and all of the panels, hinges and reinforcement members are of synthetic thermoplastic polymeric construction and are welded together by ultrasonic or vibratory welding techniques. | 08-04-2011 |
20110185651 | Flexible solar panel with a multilayer film - Multilayer films of the present disclosure may be connected to a photovoltaic component and laminated to a building surface. The multilayer film may include a compatibilizing layer made of a first material and a barrier layer made of second material and connected to a first external surface of the compatibilizing layer. In an embodiment, the first material, the second material, and the building material may all be different materials. The multilayer film may further include an adhesive layer for bonding with the building surface, and the compatibilizing layer may be disposed between the adhesive layer and the barrier layer. | 08-04-2011 |
20110185652 | Integrated Composition Shingle PV System - An integrated composition shingle PV system is interengageable with composition shingles, the composition shingles being arranged in overlapping rows on an inclined support surface. The system comprises a carrier mountable on the support surface. The carrier has flashing along its peripheral edge. The rear flashing is positionable under a first row of overlapping rows of composition shingles. The left side and right side flashing are interengageable with second and third rows of overlapping rows of composition shingles. The front flashing is positionable on top of another row of overlapping rows of composite shingles. A PV laminate is secured to and supported by the carrier. | 08-04-2011 |
20110192098 | Solar Panel mounting system and installation - A solar panel mounting system having a support, a railing and a clamp by utilizing all the components made with the metal structural members available in the market without resorting to a special fabrication or extrusion for saving material costs. It also saves labor for installation. The plurality of supports are screw connected to the roof rafters to accommodate the solar panels. The plurality of rails are placed on the supports and screw connected at job site. The plurality of clamps are slid inside the rail tube from the ends of rails to proper locations for tightening the solar panels by plurality of clips. | 08-11-2011 |
20110197524 | ATTACHMENT OF PHOTOVOLTAIC DEVICES TO SUBSTRATES USING SLOTTED EXTRUSION MEMBERS - The invention describes extruded member systems to which a photovoltaic device is secured to an architectural surface. | 08-18-2011 |
20110197525 | TRIM FOR A BUILDING FRONTAGE - The invention relates to a method for trimming a building frontage. The method includes: applying an insulation onto said wall, from the wall towards the outside; applying a solar receptor after the insulation; forming a channel between the insulation and a rigid outer layer; placing a partially transparent and/or cut-out flexible strip therein; closing the channel with the outer layer having at least 90% of the surface thereof made of at least one transparent or translucent protection feature. The invention also relates to a kit for trimming a building frontage capable of being implemented by the method. | 08-18-2011 |
20110209420 | Photovoltaic Elements, Systems, Methods And Kits - The present invention relates generally to the photovoltaic generation of electrical energy. The present invention relates more particularly to photovoltaic products for use in photovoltaically generating electrical energy. One aspect of the invention is a photovoltaic element comprising: a top face and a plurality of lateral sides; one or more photovoltaic cells defining a photovoltaic region on the top face, the photovoltaic region extending substantially to one or more of the lateral sides; and one or more selvage edges disposed along one or more of the lateral sides to which the photovoltaic region does not extend. | 09-01-2011 |
20110209421 | PAN TILE ROOFING SYSTEM - A pan tile for use in a roofing system and assembly, wherein a plurality of such pan tiles are disposed in confronting, supported relation on an underlying roof support and in underlying, at least partially supporting relation to plurality of overlapping, exteriorly exposed roof tiles, wherein the pan tiles may be structured individually or integrally in longitudinal arrays. The pan tile includes a planar base and two oppositely disposed planar side segments extending outwardly from opposite peripheries of said base at a common, preferred obtuse angle. Leading and trailing ends of pan tiles have a greater and lesser transverse dimension respectively, wherein the side segments or oriented in a converging configuration extending from the leading end to the trailing end of the pan tile. Solar energy systems may also be incorporated in the individual pan tiles and/or the longitudinal arrays thereof. The roofing assembly may further include a heat dissipating assembly and/or a stabilizing assembly. | 09-01-2011 |
20110209422 | METHOD AND APPARATUS FOR MOUNTING PHOTOVOLTAIC MODULES TO SHINGLED SURFACES - A photovoltaic module for mounting to a roof overlying rafters, wherein the rafters have a given spacing, and wherein the photovoltaic module is to be mounted to the roof with a desired spacing between horizontally-adjacent photovoltaic modules, the photovoltaic module having a width which is a multiple of the given spacing between rafters, after taking into account the desired spacing between horizontally-adjacent photovoltaic modules. | 09-01-2011 |
20110214364 | BUILDING WITH INTEGRATED NATURAL SYSTEMS - A building is provided with integrated natural systems that reduce dependency on external resources to operate and maintain the building. A source of electricity is provided through an extensive set of solar panels that may be incorporated on louvers mounted to the exterior of the building. The building has a double insulative layer to include an outer airtight membrane or cover, and an internal building structure that defines habitable space within the structure. Rainwater may be collected and stored within a subsurface well. The space between the internal structure and outer membrane may support the growth of vegetation in a greenhouse environment. A flow of temperature regulated air is provided through the structure by a set of underground pipes in which the air is circulated through a central core of the building, into the habitable space, and then outward into the greenhouse space. | 09-08-2011 |
20110214365 | APPARATUS AND METHOD FOR SECURING SOLAR PANEL CELLS TO A SUPPORT FRAME - A clamp assembly for clamping one or more solar panel cells to a supporting frame rail. The clamp assembly may have a clamp body, an insert and a fastener. The clamp body may have a neck portion and a pair of shoulders extending generally perpendicular to the neck portion. The shoulders may be adapted to overlay edges of a pair of adjacently positioned solar panel cells resting on a frame rail. The insert may be sized to be inserted into the neck portion, with the insert having a plurality of teeth formed along its length. The insert may be captured within the neck portion of the clamp body so as to be non-removable therefrom, but still able to be rotated within the clamp body. The threaded fastener may be pressed into the insert and captured by the teeth, and then once a head portion thereof is positioned within a channel of the frame rail, the insert may be rotated to tighten the fastener and clamp the edges of the pair of solar panel cells to the frame rail. | 09-08-2011 |
20110214366 | PHOTOVOLTAIC MODULE MOUNTING ASSEMBLY - A mounting assembly ( | 09-08-2011 |
20110214367 | PHOTOVOLTAIC MODULE MOUNTING ASSEMBLY - A mounting assembly ( | 09-08-2011 |
20110214368 | PHOTOVOLTAIC MODULE MOUNTING ASSEMBLY - A mounting assembly ( | 09-08-2011 |
20110225904 | Slate Style Roofing System with Integrated Solar Panels - A roofing system includes battens and hangers for installing slate roofing shingles on a roof. Electrical conductors and other electronics are incorporated into the battens and the battens are connected together to form an electrical transmission grid beneath the shingles. Solar panels are installed in place of slate shingles in some locations on the roof and are configured to match or complement the surrounding slate shingles. Each solar panel includes a connector that connects the solar panel to the electrical transmission grid. The grid thus collects the electrical energy generated by all of the solar panels and delivers it for storage or use in a home. Microinverters may be coupled to smaller groups of the solar panels for converting their DC voltage to AC voltage and the outputs of the microinverters connected to a remote location for use or storage. | 09-22-2011 |
20110232210 | Photovoltaic ice dam remediation apparatus - An ice dam remediation apparatus comprises a photovoltaic cell panel DC power source ( | 09-29-2011 |
20110232211 | WAVEGUIDE ASSISTED SOLAR ENERGY HARVESTING - A photovoltaic (PV) system includes a fiber optical waveguide comprising an active core that hosts material configured to absorb and emit light, a cladding layer surrounding the active core, the cladding layer being configured to allow ambient light to pass through the cladding layer, and an exit port located proximate an end of the waveguide. The PV system further comprises one or more solar cells disposed at the exit port of the waveguide. The waveguide is configured to guide light to the one or more solar cells. Another photovoltaic (PV) system includes a waveguide comprising an active cladding layer hosting material configured to absorb and emit light, and a core layer configured to confine light emitted by the active cladding layer. The PV system further includes one or more solar cells disposed proximate the waveguide. The core layer is configured to guide light to the one or more solar cells. | 09-29-2011 |
20110232212 | SOLAR ROOFING SYSTEM - An apparatus and method for connecting solar panels to a roof system surface. The solar panels are at least partially attached to a roofing surface by use of a fastener. | 09-29-2011 |
20110232213 | SOLAR ROOFING ASSEMBLY - A solar roofing panel includes at least one photovoltaic device, including a front structure and a rear structure, and at least one solar collector capable of delivering hot water, including a front structure and a rear structure. The respective front structures of the photovoltaic device and of the solar collector include glass substrates forming a cover that has an upper face, to face an external environment, and an opposed inner face, the respective rear structures of the photovoltaic device and of the solar collector being placed beneath the cover, facing the inner face. The glass substrates have no metal frames and are joined together, or are separated by other transition glass substrates, so as to form a uniform unitary glass cover. | 09-29-2011 |
20110239554 | BUILDING-INTEGRATED PHOTOVOLTAIC POWER UNIT - A building-integrated photovoltaic power unit comprising: a solar cell module including a solar panel, a functional member, and a frame body including a first frame formed with an installation part extending outward and holding the functional member and the opposing edges of the solar panel facing each other; a processed rafter including a supporting member, the processed rafters including processed rafters configured as a structure of a roof, each having a width to allow installation parts of different solar cell modules facing each other to be installed thereon in a state where supporting members are successively installed stepwise in a longitudinal direction; and a cap member fixed to the processed rafter including a ceiling part covering upper surfaces of the first frames of the solar cell modules installed such that the respective installation parts face each other on an upper surface of the processed rafter. | 10-06-2011 |
20110239555 | Asphalt roof integrated photovoltaic - A roof integrated photovoltaic roofing panel and flashing system | 10-06-2011 |
20110247282 | Building Construction - Accordingly, this invention provides a method for constructing a building, the method comprising: (i) providing a supporting framework; (ii)providing at least one power generation member ( | 10-13-2011 |
20110252723 | Integrated energy-efficient roofing - Integrated multi-layer roofing that includes energy-conserving reflective layers and insulation can be pre-fabricated in sheets, panels, or even complete pre-sized roofs. Recycled polymers can be used for some or all of the layers, and other recycled materials such as fiberglass can be used in the insulating layer. Some versions of this integrated roofing can be installed directly over roofing beams, greatly reducing the time and expense of installation. The polymer construction makes this roof lightweight and long-lasting. The reflective properties allow for increased energy capture by solar panels and reduce the ground-level effects of greenhouse gases in the atmosphere. | 10-20-2011 |
20110252724 | Roof Truss Compatible for Solar Panels - A roof truss compatible for solar energy panels, and a method for installing the roof trusses, incorporates a non-structural top chord that may have a removable portion removed and replaced by a solar assembly. The truss is structurally designed to support the solar assembly without the presence of the non-structural top chord. A desired length of the non-structural top chord may be omitted or removed during manufacture of the truss, or may be removed at a future time for installation of solar panel assemblies. A solar assembly for inserting into the solar roof truss may include a panel enclosure which has a channel for holding a solar panel, where the panel is installed approximately flush with the roof line. The panel enclosure may have an air space underneath the solar panel, to allow for cooling air flow and water drainage. | 10-20-2011 |
20110258945 | Curtain wall unit for assembling a curtain wall and curtain wall assembled from the same - A curtain wall unit includes a frame composed of a casting material, which define at least one infill area for receiving and retaining an infill element, and a connector assembly operatively engaged to the frame for attaching the frame to a standing structure. A method of making the curtain wall unit and a curtain wall assembled from the same is also described. | 10-27-2011 |
20110265401 | MOUNTING SYSTEM FOR SOLAR MODULES - Mounting system for solar modules ( | 11-03-2011 |
20110271611 | UNIVERSAL FIXING BRACKET FOR PHOTOVOLTAIC PANELS - The present invention relates to a bracket used to fix photovoltaic panels in horizontal position on the roof, characterised in that it can be universally used on roofs made with flat surface and roofs made with notched panels provided with trapezoidal ribs, including with different cross-section. | 11-10-2011 |
20110277401 | "J" Bolt Roof Hardware Mounting System - A “J” Bolt Roof Hardware Mounting stanchion for elevating and supporting objects such as wind turbines and solar panels upon a roof where high load and wind sheer are present. This invention presents a new method of capturing the roof rafter with a bolt shaped in the form of a “J” rather than running the risk of damaging a rafter with a lag bolt. A hole is drilled along side of the roof rafter and the “J” bolt is slipped through the hole and hooked around the bottom of the rafter. The Roof Plate is slid down the shaft of the “J” bolt to the roof deck and then the nut on the shaft of the “J” bolt is tightened to secure the “J” bolt and base plate in place. The stanchions and vibration dampener are installed and the system is ready for use. | 11-17-2011 |
20110277402 | SOLAR PANEL MOUNT - The invention relates to a solar module attachment, comprising a Z-support ( | 11-17-2011 |
20110283635 | INSTALLATION STRUCTURE OF EXTERIOR WALL DECORATIVE SHEETS - The present invention provides an installation structure of exterior wall decorative sheet ( | 11-24-2011 |
20110289867 | BUILDING ROOF WITH ROWS OF CURVED TILES ALTERNATING WITH STRIP-SHAPED SOLAR MODULES, AND SHEET-METAL PANEL FOR MAKING SAID ROOF - A building roof having at least one inclined pitch bearing a plurality of linear rows of mutually parallel curved tiles, a plurality of strip-shaped solar modules arranged between said rows of curved tiles, and a plurality of fretted sheet-metal panels, each of which has a plurality of longitudinal ribbings configured for engagement of said solar modules, wherein each of said solar modules is fixed by means of fasteners between a pair of adjacent ribbings and wherein said rows of curved tiles are arranged along the line of maximum slope of the roof pitch between pairs of ribbings to which said solar modules are fixed. | 12-01-2011 |
20110296773 | ASSEMBLIES FOR CONSTRUCTING SOLAR PANEL MOUNTING SYSTEMS - Mechanical clips and pier cap assemblies are provided that may be used to construct solar panel mounting frames. The assemblies include a pier cap that is configured to be attached to a top portion of a pier, which includes an opening and a flange stop. The flange stop is configured to support a solar panel mounting frame member. The assemblies further include a clip that has an aperture and a tab, with the tab being configured to be disposed through the opening in the pier cap. The assemblies further include a bolt and a nut, which are used to secure a solar panel mounting frame member to the pier cap. | 12-08-2011 |
20110302857 | Building Integrated Solar Array Support Structure Device, System, and Method - The system provides an n-s rail bracket that both supports a plurality of solar panels structurally, provides view-guards to hide electrical components, and a water conduit to channel water shed from the solar panel to a desired collection point provided by the structure. As such, the system includes an n-s structural rail consisting of a bottom wall and two vertically extending sidewalls. An intermediate horizontal member extends between the two sidewalls at or near their midpoint to form a compartment between the intermediate horizontal member, a lower portion of the left sidewall, the bottom wall, and a lower portion of the right side wall. Also, the intermediate horizontal member cooperates with an upper portion of the left side wall and an upper portion of the right sidewall to form a U-shaped channel. Each distal end of the respective left and right side wall includes a T-shaped shoulder for supporting the solar module. | 12-15-2011 |
20110302858 | ROADS, WALLS, AND STRUCTURES FOR ENERGY GENERATION AND CONSERVATION - A road, wall or structure for energy generation and conservation utilizing automated 3-Dimensional formless Nano, Micro and Macro-fabrication layering. Composition, material and geometric layouts dynamically changed over the volume of the part, based on 3-D CAD data. The applicator head applies successive layers to achieve the desired shape, geometry, strength, transparency, thickness, width, texture, porosity, electrical, magnetic and thermal properties base on the 3-D CAD data. | 12-15-2011 |
20110302859 | STRUCTURE FOR RIGIDLY CONNECTING SOLAR PANELS TO A FIXTURE - A device for integrating solar panels on a fixture, in particular a roofing framework, that includes a plurality of frames intended to accommodate the solar panels, added to the fixture, said frames being defined by a peripheral edge fitted with linear elements that project relative to the plane in which the frames are set; tightening means for holding said panels on the frames; and means for securing the frames to the fixture. The frames are openwork and cover or partially overlap each other on the edges which define them, laterally on the one hand and in the direction of the roof pitch on the other hand, the projecting linear elements with which they are fitted cooperating with each other to form a barrier seal. | 12-15-2011 |
20110308177 | Solar Energy Collection Systems and Methods - A solar electricity system, comprising a solar collection surface adapted to convert light into DC electricity; a power inverter to convert the DC electricity into AC electricity; and a power cable connected to the power inverter, the power cable comprising a male plug on its distal end adapted to mate with a female power receptacle on a building structure. | 12-22-2011 |
20110314751 | SOLAR PANEL MOUNTING RACK SYSTEM - A solar panel mounting rack includes a plurality of riser components. Each riser component includes a body, a first support member extending from a first end of the body and a second support member extending from a second end of the body. A roof engaging member is fixedly coupled to the first support member of each of the riser components. Each roof engaging member defines an aperture therethrough for securing the riser components to a roof. A plurality of transverse rails is also provided. The second support members of each of the riser components are fixedly coupled to the transverse rails. The riser components are spaced apart relative to one another along a length of the transverse rails. The plurality of transverse rails is positioned substantially parallel with respect to one another and defines at least one gap therebetween for securing a solar panel to the riser components. | 12-29-2011 |
20110314752 | ROOF STRUCTURE HAVING AN ARRANGEMENT OF SOLAR PANELS - In a roof structure having an arrangement of solar panels, horizontally running fixing profiles are in each case arranged between adjacent solar panels. Each fixing profile extends underneath the frame of the respective upper solar panel and over the frame of the respective lower solar panel and both the upper and the lower solar panel are fixed to the fixing profile. In this way, a laying in a tile-like sealing manner is ensured by the fixing profiles, and at the same time the fixing profiles are used to install the solar panels. | 12-29-2011 |
20110314753 | SOLAR ROOFING SYSTEM AND METHOD OF INSTALLING THE SAME - A solar roofing system wherein the solar panels are integrated into the existing roof of a building in a watertight fashion, through the use of a starter trim piece, side step flashing pieces which are installed under each course of shingles such that they overlap to form a barrier along the side; a step flashing cover which seals the step flashing with the left and right sides of the solar panels, a Z-cleat that is fastened and sealed to the top of each solar panel, and a hood flashing which attaches to the Z-cleat and provides a sealed, watertight transition to the regular roofing material. The solar roofing system is watertight, and integrated with the actual roof, such that it does not need to be replaced when the roofing is replaced. | 12-29-2011 |
20120011782 | FENESTRATION SYSTEM WITH SOLAR CELLS - It is described a fenestration system comprising a window pane provided with a horizontal stripe pattern of solar cells, and window blinds provided with slats operative to concentrate direct sunlight onto said solar cells and operative to redirect diffuse daylight and/or direct sunlight for improved daylight distribution within an interior space. The fenestration system may be provided with control means for automatically adjustment of said window blinds based on a number of parameters like sun position, sky conditions, energy demands, need for daylight within the interior space and need for solar shading. | 01-19-2012 |
20120011783 | Photovoltaic Devices and Photovoltaic Roofing Elements Including Granules, and Roofs Using Them - The present invention includes photovoltaic devices and photovoltaic roofing elements comprising a photovoltaic element having an active face and an operating wavelength range; a polymer structure having (a) a bottom surface disposed on the active face of the photovoltaic element and (b) a top surface; and a plurality of granules disposed on the top surface of the polymer structure. Roofs including the photovoltaic devices and photovoltaic roofing elements of the present invention may be configured to have an aesthetically desirable appearance while retaining high photovoltaic efficiency. | 01-19-2012 |
20120011784 | Photovoltaic Roofing Elements and Roofs Using Them - The present invention relates generally to photovoltaic devices. The present invention relates more particularly to photovoltaic roofing products in which a photovoltaic element is affixed to a roofing substrate. In one embodiment, the present invention provides a photovoltaic roofing element comprising a roofing substrate having a solar reflectivity of greater than 0.25, and one or more photovoltaic elements affixed to the roofing substrate. In another embodiment, the present invention provides a photovoltaic roofing element comprising a roofing substrate comprising a bituminous substrate, and a plurality of colored roofing granules disposed on the bituminous substrate, the roofing substrate having color within the color space of CIE Lab coordinates L* in the range of about 20 to about 20, a* in the range of about −5 to about 5, and b* in the range of −15 to about −5; and one or more photovoltaic elements affixed to the roofing substrate. | 01-19-2012 |
20120017526 | SOLAR PANEL RACKING SYSTEM - A racking system for photovoltaic solar panels greatly reduces material, weight, labor and system profile as compared to previous mounting systems. Special pedestals are secured to a roof at far larger spacings and fewer number than required in previous systems. The pedestals are configured for efficient and dependable flashing for waterproofing the roof. In assembly the extruded aluminum components are fitted together quickly with efficient and strong connections, with the photovoltaic panels retained in a compact array and fully supported along the length of each panel. The fittings provide for field adjustment of the height of the uprights, helping accommodate uneven roof surfaces, such as flat roofs. | 01-26-2012 |
20120023841 | MULTI-FUNCTIONAL SOLAR ENERGY CONVERSION ROOFTOP TILING SYSTEM - A rooftop tiling system may include multi-functional roof tiles integrating photovoltaic and thermal converters for solar energy. The tiles allow a heat transfer fluid to circulate through inner flow channels of the tiles, and light concentration photovoltaic modules may be present atop the tiles together with a transmission or light reflection focusing device. | 02-02-2012 |
20120023842 | Photovoltaic Panel Wall - The invention is a photovoltaic panel wall mounted on a building frame and has at least two photovoltaic assembly units. Each of the at least two photovoltaic assembly units includes an electrical connector having a male terminal and a female terminal that are configured to be detachably engaged. An opening is formed in the building frame, and one of the male and female terminals of the electrical connector is fixed in the opening. | 02-02-2012 |
20120023843 | ROOFING GROMMET FORMING A SEAL BETWEEN A ROOF-MOUNTED STRUCTURE AND A ROOF - A roof mount assembly mounts a structure to a roof having a rafter and a substrate supported by the rafter. The roof mount assembly includes a piece of flashing positioned on the substrate. The flashing includes a first surface, a second surface opposite the first surface and an aperture extending through the flashing. A fastener extends through the flashing aperture. A bracket is connected to the flashing via the fastener, and the bracket is sized to support at least one roof-mounted structure on the roof. A seal is positioned between the flashing aperture and the fastener. The seal is sized to form a water-tight seal with the aperture to inhibit flow of fluid through the aperture. The seal includes a first portion and a second portion, in which the first portion is positioned to abut the flashing first surface and the second portion is positioned to extend through the aperture. | 02-02-2012 |
20120031018 | Solar Wall Apparatus and Method - A construction panel includes a pane, a construction substrate, and a frame that form an air gap there between. An electrical generator, a water circulator, and an air venting system are in the air gap. First and second reflective coatings are respectively on first surfaces of the pane and the construction substrate. The first surfaces face the air gap. The reflective coatings reflect IR to heat water in the water circulator and heat air in the air gap. First and second antireflective coatings are respectively on a second surface of the pane and on the first reflective coating. The second surface faces away from the air gap. The antireflective coatings transmit electromagnetic radiation to the electrical generator for electricity generation. The heated water, heated air, and electricity may be used in a building to which the construction panel is attached. The solar-construction panel includes a multiple-pane window integrally formed therein. | 02-09-2012 |
20120031019 | ROOFING SYSTEM AND METHOD - A roof mounting system can include a roof substrate and flashing supportable on the substrate and including an outwardly extending projection having a concave interior side and an aperture extending through the projection between top and bottom surfaces of the flashing. A seal can extend through the aperture and contact at least a portion of the top surface and at least a portion of the bottom surface. The seal can be conformable with the concave interior side and can define a seal aperture substantially aligned with the flashing aperture. A mounting bracket can be supportable on the flashing and can define an aperture sized to receive at least a portion of each of the seal and the projection. A fastener can extend through the mounting bracket aperture, seal aperture, and flashing aperture to inhibit fluid flow through the flashing aperture. | 02-09-2012 |
20120036799 | SUPPORT DEVICE FOR MOUNTING A SOLAR PANEL AND MOUNTING SYSTEM INCORPORATING SAME - The invention provides a solar panel mounting system ( | 02-16-2012 |
20120036800 | SOLAR PANEL DEVICE - The invention relates to a solar panel device that comprises a fixed anchoring holder ( | 02-16-2012 |
20120042588 | INTEGRATED PHOTOVOLTAIC MODULE - The disclosed embodiments increase the power generated by a photovoltaic (PV) array, when the PV panels within the PV array are not uniformly illuminated or oriented or when PV panels are mismatched (e.g., have varying performance characteristics) and/or operate at non-uniform temperatures. It also provides simpler interconnection and wiring of the elements (e.g., PV panels) of the array. A dc-dc converter comprised of a DC transformer is coupled to each PV panel in a photovoltaic array to generate an increased dc voltage from a lower dc voltage produced by the PV panel. The outputs of the dc-dc converters are connected in parallel to a dc bus, which distributes the resulting voltage. As a result, the energy generated by the PV array is increased, the costs of system design and installation are reduced, and it becomes feasible to install PV arrays in new locations such as on gabled or non-planar roofs. | 02-23-2012 |
20120055104 | Solar attic pressurizer - The invention, Solar Attic Pressurizer is a unique and simple approach to a residential energy problem. The first and main purpose for the invention is to actively move air through the attic space in the most efficient means possible. The Department of Energy through their Energy Star program have stated that traditional active attic fans, solar and conventional can draw air out of your living space into your attic and out of your house. This increased the losses in energy both in cooling and heating which not only costs more in energy but also overworks the air conditioning equipment. This invention not only ventilates the attic space but uses pressure to reduce or eliminates losses from the living space to the attic that can occur with or without an active attic ventilation system. | 03-08-2012 |
20120055105 | ADHESIVES AND SEALANTS BASED ON SILANE-TERMINATED BINDERS FOR BONDING AND SEALING FLEXIBLE SOLAR FILMS/PHOTOVOLTAIC MODULES - A single- or multi-component adhesive/sealant compositions containing at least one silane-terminated prepolymer, wherein the adhesive/sealant compositions are free of organic heavy metal catalysts, and the silane-terminated prepolymers comprise terminal groups that are selected from among methyldialkoxysilylpropyl, trialkoxysilylpropyl, methyldialkoxysilylmethyl, trialkoxysilylmethyl, or mixtures thereof. In the two-component embodiment, the adhesive/sealant compositions consist of a component A, containing at least one silane-terminated prepolymer of the aforementioned type, and a component B, containing water and thickener. Said adhesive/sealant compositions are used to elastically bond two or more identical and/or dissimilar substrates, in particular in the production of photovoltaic modules, and in the mounting of photovoltaic modules onto roof surfaces and other surfaces. | 03-08-2012 |
20120060434 | PHOTOVOLTAIC MODULES - A photovoltaic module includes a photovoltaic element, and a substrate coupled to the photovoltaic element comprising an amorphous phase material, wherein the substrate comprises a compression region abutting an external surface of the substrate. Additionally, the compression region extends for an average depth into the substrate of at least about 50 microns. | 03-15-2012 |
20120073220 | SECURING CONFIGURATION OF SOLAR CELL MODULE - A securing configuration of a solar cell module includes a plurality of supporting members which are mounted on roof members; a plurality of crosspiece members each of which is inserted between and supported by the supporting pieces of the plurality of supporting members, has first holding portions which hold first fastener members in a slidable manner on both side faces and a second holding portion which holds a second fastener member in a slidable manner on an upper face, and which are arranged at a predetermined interval in the roof lateral direction; and securing members which secure the solar cell module installed on the plurality of crosspiece members such that long sides of the solar cell module are intersected with the plurality of crosspiece members to the crosspiece members through the second fastener members held by the second holding portions. | 03-29-2012 |
20120079781 | SUPPORT ARRANGEMENT - The invention relates to a support arrangement ( | 04-05-2012 |
20120085040 | LOW PROFILE ELECTRICAL CONNECTION SYSTEM - An electrical connection system is presented that is especially suited for use with a solar shingle application disposed on a rooftop of a building structure. The electrical connection system, when underlying roof shingles disposed on the rooftop, has a low profile that prevents an undesired buckled visual appearance from occurring to the roof shingles over a service life of the roof shingles. The electrical connection system has a thickness that is about a diameter thickness of at least one wire conductor that attaches with at least one connector body of the electrical connection system. The electrical connection system further includes at least one latch mechanism, that when sufficiently engaged against by a tool, allows a plug connector body to unmate from a socket connector body or a shunt socket connector body. A method to construct the at least one connector of the electrical connection system is also presented. | 04-12-2012 |
20120085041 | SUPPORT STRUCTURE AND SYSTEMS INCLUDING THE SAME - Support structures and systems for electrical panels, such as solar panels or collectors, and other materials and devices are described. The structures are relatively strong and lightweight and include cable management features. | 04-12-2012 |
20120085042 | Wall Panel Systems for Rigid Wall Panels - Wall panel systems are provided. The systems use interlocking components to attach photovoltaic (PV), ceramic, or other rigid wall panels to an exterior wall of a building. | 04-12-2012 |
20120096781 | Structural Insulated Monolithic Photovoltaic Solar-Power Roof and Method of Use Thereof - A photovoltaic roof structure is provided. The monolithic roof structure comprises a plurality of composite panels, photovoltaic modules and connectors, wherein the respective composite panels are comprised of an outer skin, an inner skin, and an insulation layer between the outer and inner skins, the photovoltaic modules are incorporated into the outer skin, and the connectors physically and electrically couple the composite panels to one another to form the roof structure. | 04-26-2012 |
20120102853 | MOUNT FOR PITCHED ROOF AND METHOD OF USE - In one embodiment, there is a mount for a pitched roof. The mount comprises a fastening plate. The fastening plate includes at least one support extending upwardly from the fastening plate to support a pair of mounting surfaces a predetermined distance above the pitched roof. At least a portion of the fastening plate extends laterally from the one or more supports. The pair of mounting surfaces is configured to support at least one photovoltaic panel. The mount further includes a clamp housing between the pair of mounting surfaces and receives a clamp. The clamp comprises a pair of laterally extending clamp plates and at least one clamp stabilizer configured to prevent the clamp plate from tilting when the clamping force is applied. | 05-03-2012 |
20120102854 | Assembly for Fastening a Plurality of Solar Modules to a Building Roof or a Building Facade and Clip for Forming a Stop Element on a Surface - The invention relates to a fastening assembly for solar modules ( | 05-03-2012 |
20120110931 | ISOLATION MOUNT AND METHODS THEREFOR - An isolation mount comprises a hollow wedge shaped shell having an upper sloped surface and at least three sidewalls extending therefrom to join a surrounding flange. The wedge shaped shell is thermoformed from a rigid plastic material. The upper sloped surface may include stiffening ribs and the shell may include a ballast recess adapted to contain roofing ballast. The inner perimeter portion of a skirt membrane is secured to the surrounding flange and an outer perimeter portion of the skirt extends away from the surrounding flange and is securable to a surface. The inner perimeter portion may be sealed to the surrounding flange. The inner perimeter portion defines a skirt membrane opening leading into a hollow region of the shell such that multiple isolation mounts may be stacked together. | 05-10-2012 |
20120110932 | PAN TILE/ROOFING TILE/FACADE ELEMENT WITH INTEGRATED SOLAR MODULE - The present invention relates to a roofing tile, a roofing shingle or facade element having a photovoltaic solar element and a method for producing such a roofing tile/roofing shingle/facade element. | 05-10-2012 |
20120117895 | PHOTOVOLTAIC MODULE INSTALLATION DEVICE - A photovoltaic module installation device is provided, which is used for installing a photovoltaic module on a roof. The photovoltaic module installation device includes a fixture clipped on the roof, a lower connection piece locked on the fixture, a first support frame disposed on the lower connection piece, an upper connection piece and a second support frame. The upper connection piece is fitted on the first support frame and is locked with the lower connection piece. The second support frame is perpendicularly fixed on the first support frame, and the photovoltaic module is fixed on the second support frame. | 05-17-2012 |
20120117896 | ARCHITECTURAL PANELS WITH ORGANIC PHOTOVOLTAIC INTERLAYERS AND METHODS OF FORMING THE SAME - A method of making a photovoltaic panel includes previously preparing one or more pre-formed substrates with a first temperature and pressure to be non-planar, textured, embossed, colored, or combinations thereof. A manufacturer can then prepare a laminate assembly comprising one or more organic photovoltaic components one or more pre-formed substrates, and a barrier layer with one or more thermally-activated thermoplastic tie layers there between. The manufacturer can then finish the photovoltaic panel lamination by subjecting the assembly to a second set of temperatures and pressures sufficient to activate and bond the pre-formed substrate, barrier layer, and photovoltaic components without significantly softening the pre-formed substrates or otherwise degrading/damaging the organic photovoltaic components. A non-planar panel made by this method can be used in both exterior and interior decorative and/or structural applications where electrical generation is desired. | 05-17-2012 |
20120124921 | Photovoltaic Roofing Elements Including Tie Layer Systems, And Roofs Using Them, And Methods For Making Them - The present invention relates generally to photovoltaic devices. The present invention relates more particularly to photovoltaic roofing products in which a photovoltaic element is joined to a roofing substrate. In one embodiment, the present invention provides a photovoltaic roofing element comprising: an encapsulated photovoltaic element having a top surface and a bottom surface, a top layer material at its top surface and a bottom layer material at its bottom surface; a roofing substrate having a top surface; and a tie layer system disposed between the encapsulated photovoltaic element and the roofing substrate and joining the bottom surface of the encapsulated photovoltaic element to the top surface of the roofing substrate. | 05-24-2012 |
20120124922 | SUPPORT SYSTEM FOR CARPORT WITH SOLAR PANELS - A roof panel support system is supported by at least two structural beams, and includes a support matrix for panels, such as solar panels, that can constitute the roof of a structure. The support matrix includes panel rails that can hold panels installed from beneath the support matrix. | 05-24-2012 |
20120131865 | WALL CONSTRUCTION - Wall structure in particular for industrial buildings having a vertical support post ( | 05-31-2012 |
20120131866 | PARKING SHELTER PROVIDED WITH PHOTOVOLTAIC SOLAR PANELS - The invention relates to a parking shelter ( | 05-31-2012 |
20120137600 | Photovoltaic Systems, methods For Installing Photovoltaic Systems, And Kits For Installing Photovoltaic Systems - The present invention relates particularly to photovoltaic systems for use in photovoltaically generating electrical energy. One aspect of the invention is a photovoltaic roofing system including a plurality of photovoltaic elements contiguously disposed on a roof deck arranged in at least two horizontal rows, defining a photovoltaic area; a plurality of roofing elements disposed adjacent the contiguously-disposed photovoltaic elements, along their side edges; side flashing disposed along the side edges of the contiguously-disposed photovoltaic elements, the side flashing having a flange facing away from the photovoltaic area at least partially disposed between a roofing element and the roof deck, and a structure at least partially disposed on the surface of the photovoltaic element or at least partially disposed between a photovoltaic element and the roof deck. | 06-07-2012 |
20120137601 | PHOTOVOLTAIC MODULE ASSEMBLY - A photovoltaic module assembly includes a photovoltaic module and a base layer. The photovoltaic module has a bottom side, a top side, a main body, and a peripheral edge strip. The peripheral edge strip includes a plurality of apertures formed therethrough. The base layer is disposed adjacent the bottom side of the photovoltaic module. The base layer has an underlying portion and a flap portion. The flap portion is folded over the peripheral edge strip of the photovoltaic module, and is disposed adjacent the top side of the photovoltaic module. The flap portion is attached to the underlying portion of the base layer through the plurality of apertures in the peripheral edge strip. The photovoltaic module is thereby secured to the base layer. | 06-07-2012 |
20120137602 | HOLDING AND FASTENING DEVICE - A holding and fastening device ( | 06-07-2012 |
20120151855 | Insulated metal panel with integrated collector and method for its manufacture - An insulated metal building panel ( | 06-21-2012 |
20120151856 | PHOTOVOLTAIC TILE FOR A ROOF - A photovoltaic tile for a roof includes a plurality of tiles, at least two adjacent tiles of which at least partially overlap each other, including a body ( | 06-21-2012 |
20120159878 | OPTIMIZED BUILDING INTEGRATED HYBRID ROOFING SYSTEM - An optimized building integrated hybrid roofing system is disclosed. The system comprises a plurality of metal battens having a longitudinal channel mounted horizontally onto a plurality of wooden battens, a plurality of solar electric roof tiles mounted on the metal battens and connected in series to form a string, a thermal tubing/heat pipe mounted along the longitudinal channel, at least one manifold containing liquid connected with the thermal tubing/heat pipe, an inverter connected to each string, heat exchangers connected to the thermal tubing/heat pipe, and a pump connected between the thermal tubing/heat pipe and the heat exchangers. The solar electric roof tiles generate DC from solar energy and the inverter converts the DC to AC to feed to a utility grid. The metal battens collect solar energy and converts into thermal energy resulting in producing hot water. | 06-28-2012 |
20120167492 | Solar Panel Modules Having Structural Properties - A load-bearing solar panel module is integrated into a building roofing structure. The solar panel is comprised of a structural encasement that includes two lateral structural rails, and at least three perpendicular intersecting cross beams disposed there between. The structural encasement of the module exhibits load-bearing properties when integrated into a roofing structure of a residential or commercial building which approximate those of a traditional roofing structure. The solar panel module further includes at least one of a plurality of solar photovoltaic cells and a plurality of thermal vacuum tubes disposed within the structural encasement, and between an outer glass plate and an inner insulation assembly. | 07-05-2012 |
20120167493 | SUNLIGHT-COLLECTING APPARATUS - The present invention relates to a sunlight-collecting apparatus, comprises: a reflector panel ( | 07-05-2012 |
20120174504 | ROOFTOP SYSTEM WITH INTEGRATED PHOTOVOLTAIC MODULES AND METHOD FOR CONSTRUCTING THE SAME - This invention provides a novel design of a rooftop with structurally and functionally integrated photovoltaic modules that includes photovoltaic modules, which can be commercially available and which are augmented with additional framing including additional structural and functional layers. The modules are mounted on a grid like supporting structure sitting on vertical elevation structures, such as building walls or columns. The design enables cost reduction, fast installation and improved performance of rooftops with photovoltaic power. | 07-12-2012 |
20120174505 | Shingle with Photovoltaic Element(s) and Array of Same Laid Up on a Roof - A shingle having butt and tab portions is provided, wherein the tab portions are exposed when applied to a roof, and wherein active photovoltaic element(s) appear on portions only of the tab portions of the shingles, wherein adjacent zones of the tab portions of the shingles to which the photovoltaic element(s) are applied are free of active photovoltaic elements. The shingles are applied to a roof or a major portion of a roof, laid up in courses so that exposed tab portions of next-overlying courses cover unexposed butt portions of next-underlying courses, leaving photovoltaic elements exposed. In an array of shingles on a roof, the photovoltaic elements are distributed substantially uniformally. The surface ornamentation of the exposed surfaces of the photovoltaic elements may be either complementary to the exposed surfaces of the shingles not having photovoltaic elements thereon, or may blend with such zones not having photovoltaic elements thereon. | 07-12-2012 |
20120180406 | AUXILIARY MEMBER - An auxiliary member which is inserted into between a roof material and a fixing member including a base portion which is placed on the roof material and has a placement portion, a fixing portion, and a concave groove portion, an erected portion which extends to the upper side from the base portion, and a blocking portion which extends from an upper end of the erected portion to both sides so as to be in parallel with the placement portion and blocks the first frame from being moved to the upper side, includes an engagement convex portion which engages with the groove portion of the fixing member, a main body on which the engagement convex portion is formed on an upper surface, and a concave engagement concave portion which is formed on a lower surface of the main body and is engageable with the engagement convex portion. | 07-19-2012 |
20120180407 | ROOF TRUSS KIT TO ENABLE SUPPORT OF SOLAR PANELS ON ROOF STRUCTURES - A truss reinforcing retrofit kit and method for strengthening an existing roof structure. The kit includes a tensile member, two couplings attached to the ends of the tensile member, and a king post tensioning system. The tensile member is coupled to the ends of the roof structure using the couplings. The king post tensioning system is positioned between the roof structure and the middle of the tensile member. Tension is increased within the tensile member so as to put the tensile member and the king post tensioning system under strain when there is an additional load on the roof structure in addition to a pre-existing dead load. For example, the additional load may be caused by one or more solar panels mounted on the roof structure. Alternatively, the tension might put the tensile member and the king post tensioning system under strain when the roof structure is subject only to the pre-existing dead load. | 07-19-2012 |
20120186169 | ROOF MOUNT BALLAST SOLAR RACKING SYSTEM - The present invention is a roof mount ballast solar racking system that includes a plurality of tri-member assemblies that form a plurality of U-shaped channels to receive and hold a plurality of solar panels, a plurality of wind screens attached onto the back of the tri-member assemblies to assist in preventing uplift of the system and the tri-member assemblies during high wind conditions and a plurality of channel connecting components that connect the tri-member assemblies and form a plurality of horizontal rows of the tri-member assemblies. The system also has plurality of heavy duty strut connections that connect the plurality of horizontal rows together, a plurality of ballast trays that are placed between two tri-member assemblies that serve as a ballast and a plurality of fasteners that are utilized to secure one or more components of the system together and to secure the system to the roof. | 07-26-2012 |
20120186170 | Wall Panel Systems for Rigid Wall Panels - Wall panel systems are provided. The systems use interlocking brackets to attach photovoltaic (PV), ceramic, or other rigid wall panels to an exterior wall of a building. The interlocking components include a plurality of wall mounting brackets configured to carry the dead loads of the respective wall panels, and a plurality of panel brackets that may be quickly hung from the wall mounting brackets. The wall mounting brackets are configured to be operatively fastened to an exterior wall surface, while each of the panel brackets is adhesively attached to the rear surface of a respective panel. Each of the wall mounting brackets and the nested panel brackets is substantially similar in dimension and configuration. Further, the system is configured to allow wall panels to be attached to the bracket assemblies in any sequence. A method for attaching architectural wall panels is also provided herein. | 07-26-2012 |
20120192512 | Electrical Wiring Systems For Use In Roofing Applications - The present invention relates generally to electrical systems. The present invention relates more particularly to electrical wiring systems suitable for use in roofing applications. One aspect of the invention is a wiring system on a roof comprising a roof deck having a slope and one or more roofing elements disposed on the roof deck, the wiring system including one or more wires extending along the roof disposed within a tube having an outer surface that is substantially exposed and complements the appearance of the roofing elements. | 08-02-2012 |
20120192513 | Assembly and Method for solar heating tube(s) - A tube structure, and a method for assembling the tube structure, is provided, that is particularly useful in a solar heating system. The tube structure comprises, (a) a tube formed into a predetermined (e.g. coiled) configuration, (b) at least one rafter which engages the tube in a manner designed to hold the tube in the predetermined configuration, and (c) a plurality of snippets connected at predetermined locations to the rafter, the snippets extending away from a_bottom surface of the rafter, and configured to (i) hold the rafter away from the substrate to allow flow of water and debris along the substrate without interference from the rafter, and (ii) allow relative movement of the rafter and tube relative to the snippets during expansion and contraction of the tube structure. | 08-02-2012 |
20120192514 | TELECOM TOWER VERTICAL AXIS WIND TURBINES - Attaching wind turbines to towers built for many uses is highly advantageous. The ways of doing that in novel uses and ways are presented. | 08-02-2012 |
20120198779 | SOLAR PANEL MOUNTING STRUCTURE - Provided is a solar panel mounting structure excellent in cleaning workability and maintenance easiness after construction. A solar panel mounting structure | 08-09-2012 |
20120198780 | METHOD FOR ATTACHING A SOLAR MODULE TO A SUBSTRATE USING AN ADHESIVE - A method of attaching a solar module to a substrate includes first applying an adhesive to the substrate. The adhesive is preferably a liquid or hot melt adhesive or a pressure sensitive adhesive tape. Once the adhesive has been applied to the substrate, the solar module is placed in contact with the adhesive. Where the solar module is a flexible solar module, the solar module is preferably rolled onto the adhesive. Where the solar module is a rigid unit, the solar module is preferably first positioned above the adhesive and then pressed down into contact with the adhesive. The solar module is securely attached to the substrate upon curing of the adhesive. | 08-09-2012 |
20120204500 | FIXING SYSTEM FOR SOLAR PANELS - Fixing system for solar panels for use on principally flat roofs, consisting of a base and a roof penetration, which base can be anchored to the existing steel structure of the roof, which base is further suitable to be connected to the specified roof penetration, which roof penetration is equipped above with fixings for the attachment of the further structure of the solar panels, where the roof penetration includes an inner tube and an outer tube formed from principally rectangular tubes fitting one inside the other without contacting one another, at an angle of 45° so that rubber profiles can be pressed into the spaces between the inner tube and the outer tube, serving to provide thermal gaps and functioning as a mechanical connection between the inner tube and the outer tube. | 08-16-2012 |
20120210660 | Roofing Product with Integrated Photovoltaic Elements and Flashing System - 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. | 08-23-2012 |
20120210661 | Pre-Assembled Hip, Ridge or Rake Shingle - A hip, ridge or rake shingle is provided, in which a pair of substantially rigid panel portions are connected by a hinge portion, and wherein the shingle is pre-assembled, but can conform to a variety of different angles to accommodate different angular relationships between surfaces of a hip, ridge or rake of a roof. The substantially rigid panel portions are connected by a hinge and may or may not have a reinforcement member, and all of the panels, hinges and reinforcement members are of synthetic thermoplastic polymeric construction and are welded together by ultrasonic or vibratory welding techniques. | 08-23-2012 |
20120216465 | Fastener free assembly system for solar panel arrays - A mounting system for attaching solar panels or similar structures to a surface and to each other to form an array is disclosed. In accordance with the invention, a bracket that has an upper section with a mounting surface and a retaining lip spaced apart to accept an edge of the panel is provided. A riser connects the upper section to a base disposed on the surface. A ballast disposed against the base keeps the array in place. When the edges of the panels are engaged under the retaining lip of each bracket and the brackets moved to lock the panel in place, the array remains mounted to the surface without mechanical fastening. In certain embodiments, a wind deflector is attached between adjacent panels, and in certain embodiments a separator block is also inserted to fully lock the panels in place. Methods of assembling an array of panels without tools or fasteners are also disclosed. | 08-30-2012 |
20120216466 | SOLAR SUPPORT STRUCTURE - A solar support structure includes a plurality of sections, each section including a channel member having a flat major wall and opposed side walls extending therefrom. The major wall of each section is covered with a thin film solar laminate and each section further includes an electrical connection box positioned adjacent one end and electrically coupled to the thin film solar laminate. The sections are formed into a roof panel by channel-shaped beams attached to opposed ends of each section and the beams mount the sections in a parallel abutting relationship. Columns are affixed to the beams and mount the roof panel in a desired orientation relative to an underlying surface. Electrical wiring from the boxes is positioned in one of the beams and extends into one of the columns. | 08-30-2012 |
20120216467 | Photovoltaic Roofing Wiring Array, Photovoltaic Roofing Wiring Systems and Roofs Using Them - Photovoltaic wiring arrays and photovoltaic wiring systems suitable for use in rooftop photovoltaic power generation systems are provided. Accordingly, one aspect of the invention provides a photovoltaic roofing wiring array for use with a plurality of photovoltaic roofing elements, the photovoltaic roofing wiring system including: a positive parallel wiring run comprising a main line and one or more connection branches pendant from the main line, each connection branch being terminated in a positive connector; and a negative parallel wiring run comprising a main line and one or more connection branches pendant from the main line, each connection branch being terminated in a negative connector. In some embodiments of the invention, the photovoltaic roofing wiring arrays are substantially prefabricated. | 08-30-2012 |
20120216468 | ENERGY INTEGRATIVE BUILDING WITH ECOLOGICAL ENVIRONMENTAL PROTECTION - This invention involves in one kind of Energy Integrative Building with Ecological Environmental Protection, which includes the overall structure of building, top of building, doors and windows, and guardrails, there is the concrete strengthened layer which is casted on the top of building; the fertile soil is transferred on the top of building, the moist soil dries fast under the sunlight, the fertile elements are increased, the harmful bacteria and parasite are killed in the soil, so as to keep away from the infringement to the soil caused by mouse, mosquito and housefly; solve the decreasing farmlands due to construction, make the abandoned and wasted farmlands become the qualified farmlands for growing crops; solve the loss of soil, water and fertile soil; the solar device takes the role of protection within the growing periods of crops, which can prevent crops from harm of climatic situations such as typhoon, hailstone and rainstorm; can plant crops around the year adjust and retain the urban weather and the planting areas, it also takes the role of protection in the natural environment, and improves the living situation; the hydraulic power from wind and rain is used for the generated electricity as the new energy source in the design of top building, offers the electricity demand of the building, reduces greatly the independent development costs from the generated electricity of wind power; overcomes the dilemma, one side is that the tight supplies for natural gas, liquefied gas and electric power, at the same time, the other side is that it is not enough for utilization in methane, solar energy and geothermal energy; so as to achieve the low carbon life in environmentally friendly. | 08-30-2012 |
20120222371 | RADIANT BAFFLE/COLLECTOR FOR ROOF CONSTRUCTION AND RETROFIT - A baffle system that can be used to provide ventilation to attics and roofs at the time of new roof construction or retrofit and further provides for solar thermal energy control and harvesting systems in conjunction or combination with the baffle systems. According to one embodiment, the baffle vents are made from a resilient material and are designed and configured to be flexed into a deformed shape, positioned between adjacent roof rafters and released whereupon the baffle vents become wedged between adjacent roof rafters. The baffle vents can function as radiant barriers by providing the baffle vents with a reflecting coating(s) or reflective surface(s). The baffle vents can function as radiant collectors by positioning solar thermal collectors in the air flow channels defined by the baffle vents and darkening the lower surface of the roof sheeting plane. | 09-06-2012 |
20120222372 | ADJUSTING DEVICE OF A STATIONARY PHOTOVOLTAIC SYSTEM - The invention relates to a support structure ( | 09-06-2012 |
20120233939 | ADJUSTABLE SOLAR PANEL CAP - A solar panel cap and light cap can be secured to a wall or parapet through the use of a common bracket. The bracket includes two vertical extensions on either side of a locking channel. The locking channel is configured to permanently receive a matching end, such that the matching end cannot come out of the locking channel once installed. Both the solar panel cap and light cap include the matching end. The solar panel caps and light caps are configured to connect to an adjacent cap such that they are electrically coupled. Either the solar panel caps or light caps can include a rechargeable battery such that energy stored during daylight hours can be used during the night. | 09-20-2012 |
20120233940 | MECHANICAL PHOTOVOLTAIC MODULE CARTRIDGE AND METHOD OF CONSTRUCTION - A photovoltaic panel cartridge for mounting a plurality of photovoltaic panels and method of its construction are described. The photovoltaic panel cartridge is formed from a unitary frame with internal beams and struts for stability. The photovoltaic panels are inserted into channels within the frame, struts, and/or the internal beams in order to be mounted to the photovoltaic panel cartridge and secured to mounting regions on a different one of the frame, struts, and/or internal beams. The photovoltaic panel cartridge is configured to be stacked upon similarly configured photovoltaic panel cartridges for ease in transport and to reduce damage to the photovoltaic panels during transport. The photovoltaic panel cartridge may be slidably mounted to rails of a support structure. | 09-20-2012 |
20120240489 | FLAT ROOF SOLAR RACKING SYSTEM - A flat roof racking system configured for receiving solar panels having electrically conductive frames, the racking system comprising substantially parallelly disposed panel support structures, spacer bars and retaining and grounding clips pairs, each panel support structure comprises a first end, a second end, a top member having a first channel section connected to a second channel section and two ends, and a bottom member having a channel section and two ends. The first and second channel sections are disposed in a plane but at an angle from one another and each end of the bottom member is fixedly connected to an end of the top member such that the top member is configured to make a first tilt angle at the first end with the bottom member and a second tilt angle at the second end with the bottom member. | 09-27-2012 |
20120240490 | ROOF MOUNTED PHOTOVOLTAIC SYSTEM WITH ACCESSIBLE PANEL ELECTRONICS - A support system for photovoltaic cells upon a roof. A cell support structure is provided beneath each cell, such as in the form of a pair of brackets to form a photovoltaic panel. The panels overlap partially to function somewhat as shingles, to shed water off of the roof. A lower side wall of each photovoltaic panel has at least one port therein to selectively access a space beneath the photovoltaic cell. Photovoltaic cell electronics, such as an inverter for one or a series of cells. A door is provided in one embodiment which selectively covers the port and acts as a support for the photovoltaic cell electronics. | 09-27-2012 |
20120255244 | Modular Mounting Apparatus - A mounting apparatus, primarily for solar panels and other renewable energy panels. The mounting apparatus has a base, sides, a front, a back, and a top. It is generally wedge-shaped. It has a depression designed to fit photovoltaic and solar thermal panels. It has a number of mounting mechanisms, including ballast, tethers, and fasteners, designed to minimize the number of roof-top holes needed to anchor a system. | 10-11-2012 |
20120260587 | SUBSTANTIALLY TWO-DIMENSIONAL CONSTRUCTION ELEMENT - A construction element ( | 10-18-2012 |
20120260588 | SOLAR PANEL ROOF KIT - A solar roofing system is described that is adapted for managing the flow of water down a roof. The system includes at least one roofing panel adapted for supporting photovoltaic material and at least one splice plate for interconnecting adjacent roofing panels. The roofing panels have a trough adapted for receiving water flowing down the roof and redistributing the water away from the splice plate. Anchoring clips secure roofing panels to the roof and space roofing panels from the roof for improved air circulation beneath the panels. Closure assemblies are used at edges of roofing panels to conceal electrical wiring from photovoltaic material sheets and to close off edge gaps formed by a terraced roofing system. | 10-18-2012 |
20120272591 | DEVICE FOR GENERATING SOLAR POWER - The modular unit for generating solar power comprises a plurality of diamond-shaped cover plates ( | 11-01-2012 |
20120272592 | LIGHT WEIGHT MOLDED ROOF TILE WITH INTEGRATED SOLAR CAPABILITIES - An improved building roof tile that is featherweight, category 5 hurricane proof, yields a high R-value, offer low thermal transference into attic space, will retrofit any sloped roof without structural build-up, can be molded into single or triple units, cannot break under foot or when extreme pressures are applied, can produce solar energy, is easy to transport and install and can molded to look like slate, wood, flat or roll tile. The tile is made of polymeric isocyanate component and water based HCFC-2455fa blown. | 11-01-2012 |
20120279150 | THROUGH ROOF CONNECTOR ASSEMBLY FOR A PHOTOVOLTAIC BUILDING SHEATHING ELEMENT - The present invention is premised upon a through-roof connector assembly comprising one or more photovoltaic building sheathing elements capable of being affixed on a building structure, the photovoltaic building sheathing element including a sheathing element electrical connector along a sheathing element peripheral edge; a through-roof connector edge piece assembly that abuts a portion of the photovoltaic building sheathing element and includes: a body portion, an edge piece electrical connector, one or more wire leads that are connected on one end to the edge piece electrical connector; a wire guiding member with at least one conduit hole, the wire guiding member located under the through-roof connector edge piece assembly when assembled; and an under-roof junction device that is removably connected to the wire guiding member. | 11-08-2012 |
20120291374 | LONG SPAN SOLAR COLLECTOR SUPPORT SYSTEM - A long span solar collector mounting system with a deployable truss structure centered beneath the beam, and a single centered vertical support and a stabilizing end support, for mounting solar panels and other equipment on roofs and other surfaces, that can be tilted to a desired angle with respect to the ground, and can be rotated about its vertical axis to maximize solar production, with a vertical member that is offset to direct resultant wind loads directly through the base thereby minimizing twisting or bending stresses on roof structures, with beam clamping capability for attaching to roof beams below the roof with only access above the roof, that can be tilted during and after installation for reroofing and servicing access, with angled retaining nuts that provide secure attachment of solar panels and other equipment. | 11-22-2012 |
20120297704 | Alternative energy structure - An alternative energy structure is disclosed, defined by an upper section and a lower section, wherein at least part of the upper section is solar transparent. A panel track traverses the upper section and a counterweight track traverses the lower section. The tracks are non-horizontal. A solar panel is movably connected to the panel track, and a counterweight is movably connected to the counterweight track such that the panel can traverse the upper section and the counterweight can traverse the lower section. The solar panel and the counterweight are connected to one another by a first connection mechanism and an opposite, second connection mechanism. A drive motor is connected to at least one of: the solar panel, the counterweight, the first connection mechanism and the second connection mechanism, to drive the solar panel from a first position to an opposite, second position to follow the sun. | 11-29-2012 |
20120304559 | ROOF STRUCTURE, CLAMP FOR SOLAR CELL MODULE, AND METHOD FOR MOUNTING SOLAR CELL MODULE - It is an object to develop a roof structure having high water interception, being safe from rain leakage, and ensuring a certain level of mounting strength even in the case of a broken roof member. Solar cell modules are mounted on a roof structure with slate tiles via eaves-side mounting brackets and intermediate mounting brackets. The intermediate mounting brackets are attached to a “specific roof member” wherein a lower plate is positioned between the “specific roof member” and an “underlying roof member.” The lower plate is fixed by a screw driven into a hole. The “specific roof member” is arranged over the “underlying roof member”, thereby protecting an attaching hole from rainwater. An upper plate overlaps the “specific roof member” with a fastening element driven into the attaching hole. An “overlying roof member” is arranged over the “specific roof member,” thereby protecting the attaching hole from rainwater. | 12-06-2012 |
20120317900 | MULTI-FUNCTIONAL PHOTOVOLTAIC SKYLIGHT AND/OR METHODS OF MAKING THE SAME - Certain examples relate to improved solar photovoltaic systems, and/or methods of making the same. Certain improved building-integrated photovoltaic systems may include concentrated photovoltaic skylights having a cylindrical lens array. The skylight may include an insulated glass unit, which may improve the solar heat gain coefficient. The photovoltaic skylight and lens arrays may be used in combination with strip solar cells and lateral displacement tracking systems. Such techniques may advantageously help to reduce cost per watt related, in part, to the potentially reduced amount of semiconductor material to be used for such example embodiments. A photovoltaic skylight may permit diffuse daylight to pass through into an interior of a building so as to provide lighting inside the building, while the strip solar cells absorb the direct sunlight and convert it to electricity. | 12-20-2012 |
20120317901 | Photovoltaic Roofing Systems and Methods for Installing Them - The present invention relates to photovoltaic roofing systems in which photovoltaic elements are disposed upon roofing elements such as shingles, tiles, shakes or slates. For example, in one embodiment, the present invention provides a photovoltaic roofing system comprising: a first plurality of horizontally-arranged roofing elements; a bus bar batten system extending across the headlap regions of the first plurality of roofing elements, the bus bar batten system comprising one or more rigid supports and an electrical interconnection system; a first plurality of photovoltaic elements, each disposed on a butt region of one of the first plurality of roofing elements, each operatively engaged with the electrical interconnection system of the bus bar batten system; and a second plurality of horizontally-arranged roofing elements disposed on the roof deck and covering the bus bar batten system and the headlap regions of the first plurality of horizontally-arranged roofing elements. | 12-20-2012 |
20120324808 | BEARING FRAME FOR AN ELECTRICALLY ACTIVE PANEL SUCH AS PHOTOVOLTAIC PANEL - Supporting frame for an electrically active panel comprising a peripheral structure for receiving an electrically active panel, the peripheral structure including an internal electrical connector for connection to an electrically active panel carried by the frame, at least one first external electrical connector for connection to a first means external to the frame, and an electrical link for electrically linking at least the internal electrical connector to at least the first external electrical connector, the electrical linking link extending along the peripheral structure so as to be concealed by the peripheral structure, the peripheral structure comprising a hollow portion in which the electrical link is received. The peripheral structure is a framework consisting of tubular uprights, the internal electrical connector and external electrical connector extending through a wall of the uprights on which they are disposed and the electrical link extending inside the tubular uprights. | 12-27-2012 |
20130000229 | ROOFTOP MODULE INTERLOCK SYSTEM - An interlocking system for photovoltaic and other roof-mounted panels is disclosed. One use is for a photovoltaic module which comprises a photovoltaic laminate. The laminate has an upper side which faces the sun during normal operation, and a lower side. The module also comprises a base coupled to the lower side of the photovoltaic laminate. The base also has an outer perimeter and comprises a first engagement site and a second engagement site. The first engagement site comprises a first protrusion having a hemispherical surface, an opening extending through the hemispherical surface, and wherein the first protrusion extends in a first direction and the first direction is substantially perpendicular to the outer perimeter. The second engagement site comprises a second protrusion having a cylindrical surface, the protrusion extending in a second direction, and the second direction is substantially perpendicular to the outer perimeter. | 01-03-2013 |
20130000230 | ATTACHMENT OF PHOTOVOLTAIC DEVICES TO SUBSTRATES USING SLOTTED EXTRUSION MEMBERS - The invention describes extruded member systems to which a photovoltaic device is secured to an architectural surface. | 01-03-2013 |
20130008102 | DEVICE FOR FIXING PLATES OR PANELS TO A COVER, AND RESULTING COMPOSITE COVER - A device for fixing elements in the form of plates to a roof cover for a building, at a distance therefrom, the cover including, on the surface, a coating or a sealing layer attached to the essentially continuous support forming the roof, the device including blocks that can be height-adjustable or not, for supporting and holding the plate-shaped elements, each block having a base with a lower smaller plate to be applied to the surface of the cover and secured thereto, and a head or upper part for directly or indirectly supporting at least one plate-shaped element, the bottom face of the smaller plate ( | 01-10-2013 |
20130008103 | STRUCTURAL OBJECT MOUNT, METHOD FOR INSTALLING THE MOUNT, AND SOLAR PHOTOVOLTAIC SYSTEM USING THE MOUNT - The present invention provides a structural object mount that supports a structural object, including: a cross-piece ( | 01-10-2013 |
20130014455 | SOLAR ROOFING SYSTEMAANM Grieco; William J.AACI New AlbanyAAST OHAACO USAAGP Grieco; William J. New Albany OH US - A solar roofing shingle assembly includes an attachment panel configured for attachment to a roof deck and a solar shingle mounted to the attachment panel. | 01-17-2013 |
20130036685 | Modular Structural Framing System - The present invention generally relates to a modular, structural framing system. | 02-14-2013 |
20130042549 | BUILDING ARCHITECTURE FOR RESIDENTIAL DWELLING - A system that facilitates water conservation and energy savings for a residential dwelling or home is provided. The system will increase the efficiency with which water is consumed by implementing a reclamation system for reusing water for selected tasks. Energy savings are enabled by utilizing unique insulating materials that allow the climate of the interior of a home to be controlled in a more affordable manner as less fuel/energy is required to heat/cool the home's interior. | 02-21-2013 |
20130047527 | STORAGE DEVICE FOR OUTDOORS - In order to store equipment and tools in the smallest space with at the same time improved access possibilities and orderliness in outdoor areas, a storage means is described for outdoor areas comprising: at least two holding compartments ( | 02-28-2013 |
20130055662 | SOLAR PANEL SECURING ASSEMBLY FOR SHEET METAL SLOPING ROOFS - A U-shaped spacer element supporting and retaining a photovoltaic panel assembly spacedly over a rooftop corrugated sheet; one shorter side leg thereof having an oblong bore, the other side leg having an intermediate ridge section. A screw engages into the ridge web and axially clears the shorter leg, anchoring the main body to the supporting rooftop frame elements through the corrugated sheet. The ridge section conformingly abuts against a longitudinal rib of the corrugated sheet. An L-shape bracket inner leg abuts against the main body short leg, the bracket outer leg abutting sideways against a registering portion of the photovoltaic panel assembly. A second oblong bore is made into the outer leg and extends parallel to the plane of the main body base leg. Two bolts engage the oblong bores and adjustably interlock the L-shape bracket to the spacer element main body and to the photovoltaic assembly. | 03-07-2013 |
20130055663 | SOLAR ROOF TILE WITH SOLAR AND PHOTOVOLTAIC PRODUCTION OF HOT WATER AND ELECTRICAL ENERGY - A system composed of a special Tile, to cover whole roof, thermally insulating, ventilated, with no environmental impact, producing solar and photovoltaic energy, adequate to make hot water and/or electrical energy. Two functions, thermal and photovoltaic, are designed to operate in synergy, or independently. The photovoltaic can help the thermal system, if covered surfaces are too small for heating needs of the building, or in non-ideal climates, sending part of electrical energy to electrical water heaters positioned in the boiler, to complement hot water production during low irradiation seasons. The resulting roof is optimal in any climate; in areas with snowfall snow will melt on tiles that anyway develop heat; in hot areas during summers very high temperatures occur, thus transforming heat in heat exchangers into cooling, obtaining air conditioning or cold water below the floor. It will be possible to obtain heated water for pools from excess of hot water in summer and in winter. | 03-07-2013 |
20130055664 | Photovoltaic Roofing Elements, Photovoltaic Roofing Systems, Methods and Kits - In one aspect, the invention provides a photovoltaic roofing element for disposal on a roof deck. The photovoltaic roofing element includes a roofing substrate including a top end and a bottom end. The roofing substrate includes an upward-facing zone having an upward-facing surface and a bottom end; a lateral flexible zone extending adjacent the bottom end of the upward-facing zone, the lateral flexible zone having a bottom end; and a strip of material disposed at the bottom end of the lateral flexible zone having a first surface on the same side of the substrate as the upward-facing surface and a height of at least about 1 cm as measured along a line from the top end to the bottom end of the roofing substrate; and a photovoltaic element disposed on the upward-facing surface of the upward facing zone of the roofing substrate. | 03-07-2013 |
20130061542 | PHOTOVOLTAIC WINDOW ASSEMBLY WITH SOLAR CONTROL PROPERTIES - A photovoltaic window assembly is provided. The photovoltaic window assembly includes a photovoltaic element, a solar control coating, and a space. The solar control coating is positioned adjacent the photovoltaic element. The space located immediately adjacent a surface of the solar control coating. The space is either between the photovoltaic element and the solar control coating or on a side of the solar control coating opposite the photovoltaic element. Additional embodiments of the photovoltaic window assembly are also provided. | 03-14-2013 |
20130067836 | BUILDING INTEGRABLE INTERCONNECTION STRUCTURES HAVING FIELD-CONFIGURABLE SHAPES - Provided are novel building integrable interconnection structures having field-configurable shapes and methods of installing thereof. An interconnection structure may be cut or otherwise modified in the field during installation to form one or more openings. These openings can then be positioned around various obstacles that are frequently present in building installation areas. Some examples of such obstacles include chimneys, vents, and skylights. In some embodiments, the interconnection structures can be provided as part of a set or configured to be installed in an array with building integrable photovoltaic (BIPV) modules of the same size. This installation configuration allows preserving an offset between adjacent rows of the array. Furthermore, the interconnection structures can have the same perimeter features as the BIPV modules, such as electrical connectors and moisture flaps. These features provide electrical continuity and sealing characteristics in an array of BIPV modules despite the presence of obstacles on building structures. | 03-21-2013 |
20130074428 | ROOF RIDGE VENTILATION SYSTEM - Roof ridge vent system adapted for housing a plurality of fans in a central airflow channel positioned directly over the opening in a ridge portion of a roof for ventilating a plurality of vent chutes or attic space comprising: a hood member engaged with outer edge portions of vent members having air-passageway holes defined therein and inner edge portions preferably being hinged respectively to inner edge portions of base members so as to be adapted for installation on variously-pitched roofs, each base member also having outer edge portions defining a wall adapted for blocking wind from being blown into the vent and for causing airflow over the top of the vent to encourage airflow through the vent system. Vent member sections may be installed end-to-end to define an elongated airflow channel adapted for ventilating with or without assistance from the fans. | 03-28-2013 |
20130081338 | CONNECTION DEVICE FOR PHOTOVOLTAIC MODULES AND METHOD FOR INSTALLING SAME - A connecting device for photovoltaic-capable insulating glass comprises at least one retaining device laterally attached to the photovoltaic-capable insulating glass. In its installed state, the retaining device is open on at least one side which faces the intermediate space so that at least one ribbon is insertable into a clamping device inserted in the retaining device, and wherein the ribbon establishes an electrical contact for a photovoltaic device accommodated in the at least one intermediate space, and wherein the clamping device is provided with an electrical supply line such that the clamping device establishes an electrical clamping contact between the at least one ribbon and the electrical supply line. | 04-04-2013 |
20130086852 | NEXT GENERATION PHOTOVOLTAIC SOLAR PANEL PIGGYBACK MOUNTING SYSTEM - A system and method for mounting photovoltaic solar panels onto a roof. The system includes first and second strut rails spaced from the roof employing a series of standoffs, the strut rails having a length, cross section, a base and side walls, side walls terminating with first and second turned in edges. First and second mounting fixtures are attached to the photovoltaic solar panels which are of a type and geometry enabling the solar panels to be removably appended to the strut rails. The first and second mounting fixtures can be applied to the photovoltaic solar panels before being elevated to a roof. | 04-11-2013 |
20130091786 | PHOTOVOLTAIC PANEL FASTENING SYSTEM - A fastening system is provided. In another aspect, a hook fastens a photovoltaic panel assembly to a building roof. Another aspect employs catches that removeably attach an auxiliary component, such as a solar panel frame, to a building in hinge and slide motions for engagement of the catches. A method of installing a fastening system is additionally provided. | 04-18-2013 |
20130091787 | Roof Mounting Standoff - A new mounting system for elevating and supporting objects such as solar panels is disclosed. The mounting system is designed for attachment to new or existing roofs of a variety of constructions. Sealing features are incorporated into the mounting system so that additional separate flashing components are not required. The system requires only one bolt for attachment. The design is quick and simple to install, reducing the amount of time and labor required. | 04-18-2013 |
20130104471 | SOLAR CELL MODULE SECURING STRUCTURE | 05-02-2013 |
20130111830 | BASE UNIT FOR MOUNTING PHOTOVOLTAIC MODULES - Embodiments of the invention provide systems and methods for mounting a solar panel to a roof of a building or structure. Structures used to mount a solar panel to a roof may include a base having a flange that extends partially or fully around a periphery of the mounting unit, a mounting surface connected with the base and configured to couple with the solar panel so that the solar panel is elevated above the roof's surface and/or oriented at an angle with respect thereto, and one or more walls or members that connect the mounting surface to the base. A flexible membrane or skirt may be coupled with the flange and may extend laterally therefrom. The flexible membrane or skirt may be coupled with the roof to secure the mounting unit and solar panel to the roof. | 05-09-2013 |
20130111831 | Photovoltaic Roofing Systems And Methods For Repairing Them - The present invention relates generally to photovoltaic systems. The present invention relates more particularly to photovoltaic roofing systems in which photovoltaic elements are disposed upon roofing elements such as shingles, tiles, shakes or slates. For example, in one embodiment, the present invention provides a photovoltaic roofing system for use on a roof deck, the photovoltaic system including a plurality of horizontally-arranged first photovoltaic roofing elements disposed on the roof deck, each having a top end and a bottom end; one or more first flashing elements disposed on the roof deck upwards from the first photovoltaic roofing elements, the first flashing element having a top end, and a bottom end overlapping the top end of one or more of the first photovoltaic roofing elements; and a plurality of horizontally-arranged second photovoltaic roofing elements disposed on the roof deck upwards from the one or more first flashing elements, each second photovoltaic roofing element having a top end, and a bottom end overlapping the top end of one or more of the first flashing elements, the second photovoltaic roofing elements not overlapping the bottom end of any of the first flashing elements. | 05-09-2013 |
20130118099 | HIGH EFFICIENCY CONTERBALANCED DUAL AXIS SOLAR TRACKING ARRAY FRAME SYSTEM - A high efficiency, environmentally friendly system comprising a plurality of photovoltaic solar collecting panels (PV panels) is disclosed. The system comprises an outer frame to which a plurality of inner frames are mounted to which the plurality of PV panels are attached. To minimize shadowing by the outer frame upon one or more PV panels, at least one PV panel may extend beyond an endpoint of the main frame. The system also comprises an outer frame rotation actuator that rotates the outer frame and an inner frame rotation actuator that rotates the inner frames and the plurality of PV panels. The solar tracking array frames disclosed herein help to improve the quality of the environment by conserving a variety of energy resources (e.g., fossil fuels, hydroelectric energy, etc.) The solar tracking array frames disclosed herein also help to reduce greenhouse gas emissions, as solar tracking array frames do not produce carbon dioxide byproducts. | 05-16-2013 |
20130125482 | Photovoltaic Roofing Elements And Photovoltaic Roofing Systems - 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. | 05-23-2013 |
20130133275 | DEVICE FOR SUPPORTING AND ATTACHING PANELS OR THE LIKE, AND ROOF SYSTEM COMPRISING SUCH A DEVICE - A device for supporting and attaching panels to a roof including an added sealing covering on the surface thereof includes brackets for tiltedly supporting and bearing the panels, including a bottom bearing portion and at least one top portion for supporting the panels, the brackets having a triangular structure and consisting of a hollow body. The device is characterized in that the bottom portion ( | 05-30-2013 |
20130152492 | SURFACE COVERING INCORPORATING A LOCKING JOINT - Surface coverings comprising individual covering elements, such as for decking are known. However, known constructions have problems including separation of the joints between planks as the material of the covering elements contracts over time. Existing products make use of harmful solvent based adhesives for securing the elements together, the application of which is also labour intensive. A surface covering comprising two or more covering elements, each covering element having a first part comprising a female member; a second part comprising a male member for engagement with a female member, the first part having a top surface and a basal surface, the basal surface extending beyond the top surface to provide an open recess for reception of the male member, the second part having a top surface and a basal surface and a male member protruding therebetween, the female member and the male member providing an interference fit upon engagement. | 06-20-2013 |
20130160382 | ROOF PANEL FOR SUPPORTING PV MODULES | 06-27-2013 |
20130186017 | SOLAR PANEL SUPPORT STRUCTURE - Roof-top solar panel system that is held in place on a roof by the solar array. The system includes a softened design including rounded component edges that protect the roof from uplift damage by solar panel structure components with or without mechanical anchoring or ballast. | 07-25-2013 |
20130192150 | SOLAR PANEL SECURING SYSTEM - A solar panel securing system is provided. In another aspect, a solar or photovoltaic panel assembly is mounted to a building roof in a screw-free manner. Another aspect employs a snap-in connection between a member pre-assembled to a solar panel and a roof-mounted bracket. A further aspect adhesively bonds a bracket directly to a glass surface of a solar panel. A method of securing a solar panel is additionally provided. | 08-01-2013 |
20130205692 | SOLAR PANEL ASSEMBLY WITH MOVABLE BARRIERS - A solar panel assembly including a solar panel spaced from a surface to create a gap and a barrier movable between an open position and a closed position, the barrier being adapted to inhibit airflow through said gap below said solar panel when in the closed position. The assembly may further include a rack supporting the solar panel and resting on the surface. The barrier may be adapted to move from the open position to the closed position upon detection of conditions indicative of a fire. In this way air flow below the solar panel is permitted during normal operation of the solar panel assembly but is inhibited upon detection of a fire. | 08-15-2013 |
20130212959 | ASPHALT SHINGLE SOLAR POWER DEVICE, SYSTEM AND INSTALLATION METHOD - The invention is an asphalt shingle based solar power device, system, and installation method for providing asphalt shingles with embedded photovoltaic solar panels that can be installed on a roof in a manner quite similar to that of standard asphalt shingles, with a minimal need for either extra wiring or skilled labor. The invention provides shingles, underlayment layers (roofing paper), and electrical connecting tape which have embedded electrically conductive ribbon cable, such as flat braded electrical wire, configured so that the same nails that assemble the units together also electrically connect the various devices to form a useful photovoltaic electrical grid. Use of other materials and methods, such as specially designed nails with a middle conductive region, optional self-sealing materials to provide water resistance, use of safety disconnect circuits, and the like is also described. | 08-22-2013 |
20130219812 | SOLAR PANEL ROOF-RIDGE MOUNTING SYSTEMS AND METHODS - An exemplary embodiment of the present invention provides a solar panel roof-ridge mounting system for use in mounting one or more solar panels to a roof of a building. The system can comprise a base plate and a plurality of attachment members coupled to the base plate. The base plate can be configured to interface with a deck of the roof at a roof-ridge. The base plate can comprise a first side and an opposing second side. The first side can be configured for placement adjacent a first side of the roof-ridge, and the second side can be configured for placement adjacent an opposing second side of the roof-ridge. The attachment members can be configured to couple the roof-ridge mounting system to a support system of the one or more solar panels. | 08-29-2013 |
20130239495 | Roofing Installation System - The roofing installation system comprises a plurality of metal battens mounted horizontally onto a plurality of parallel wooden battens, which are mounted vertically over a slope roof. A plurality of link channel brackets having a hook is fastened vertically between a pair of the plurality of metal battens using a latch. A plurality of slate modules is mounted on the plurality of metal battens. Each slate module slides through the plurality of link channel brackets till a bottom portion of the slate module fits into the plurality of hooks. A central grooved portion on the link channel bracket, may act as a drainage channel for the water falling on the slate modules. | 09-19-2013 |
20130263533 | Photovoltaic Roofing Wiring Array, Photovoltaic Roofing Wiring Systems and Roofs Using Them - Photovoltaic wiring arrays and photovoltaic wiring systems suitable for use in rooftop photovoltaic power generation systems are provided. Accordingly, one aspect of the invention provides a photovoltaic roofing wiring array for use with a plurality of photovoltaic roofing elements, the photovoltaic roofing wiring system including: a positive parallel wiring run comprising a main line and one or more connection branches pendant from the main line, each connection branch being terminated in a positive connector; and a negative parallel wiring run comprising a main line and one or more connection branches pendant from the main line, each connection branch being terminated in a negative connector. In some embodiments of the invention, the photovoltaic roofing wiring arrays are substantially prefabricated. | 10-10-2013 |
20130263534 | Shingled Roof with Integrated Photovoltaic Collectors - A solar insert for shingled roofs includes an insert with a generally wedge-shaped body designed to be installed beneath a shingle and a face that is exposed and extends along a lower edge of the shingle. The face preferably is angled with respect to the shingle and a solar collector in the form of a thin-film solar strip is mounted to and extends along the face. The inserts of multiple shingles are electrically coupled together to form an electrical grid for aggregating the electrical energy of the individual solar collectors and delivering it to a remote location for storage or use. In a second embodiment, a shingle has a solar collector strip mounted to its surface extending along a forward edge of the shingle, and in another, the solar collector surrounds the tabs of their shingles. The solar collectors not only generate electrical energy from the sun; they also enhance the appearance of a shingled roof by providing a look of increased thickness and texture. | 10-10-2013 |
20130263535 | FACADE ELEMENT - A facade element for heat-insulation purposes has at least two parallel panels ( | 10-10-2013 |
20130276390 | BUILDING WALL WITH FLUID DUCTS AS ENERGY BARRIERS - The invention relates to a wall or roof surface element comprising a temperature barrier layer and an extremely thin external insulating layer. Alternatively, an absorption layer can also be provided on the external side. A building fitted with said type of elements has a positive energy balance. | 10-24-2013 |
20130283710 | CONNECTOR ASSEMBLIES FOR CONNECTING PANELS, PANELS WITH CONNECTOR ASSEMBLIES - In one embodiment, a connector assembly comprises: a connector; and a pair of side collectors, each comprising a connector engagement region having a size and geometry to mate with the connector so as to hold ends of two adjacent panels together; and a panel engagement region comprising a receiving area and having a size to attach onto an edge of the panel; and a clip, wherein the clip has a base that can be attached to a support, an engagement, and a stem extending therebetween, wherein the engagement has an extension projecting from a side of the engagement, wherein the panel engagement region further comprises an opening in a joint wall on a side of the panel engagement region opposite the receiving area, wherein the opening is configured to receive the extension of the engagement. | 10-31-2013 |
20130291456 | Roof Tiles and Related Systems - Roof tile systems for structures are provided. A representative system ( | 11-07-2013 |
20130298482 | System For Butt Jointing Photovoltaic Modules, And Roof-Covering Created With Photovoltaic Modules Joined By Means Of Jointing Systems Of This Type - System for butt jointing a first and at least one second photovoltaic module for creating a roof-covering, each module has a panel with photovoltaic cells and a support frame having at least one longitudinal end profile and at least one longitudinal side profile. At least one longitudinal support profile is provided at least for the longitudinal end profile of the frame of the first module, and for the longitudinal end profile of the frame of the second module. The longitudinal end profile in each module has a box-section longitudinal body fixable to the longitudinal side profile, a first longitudinal wing delimiting a seat for engaging the panel, and at least one second longitudinal wing having an arched longitudinal surface for engaging the support profile. | 11-14-2013 |
20130318893 | Mounting Device and Method of Installing of a Solar Panel - A solar panel mounting anchor adapted for mounting a solar panel on a flat roof, the anchor comprising integral ballast, and edges comprising a resilient material and at least one engagement feature adapted to receive a solar panel and to space the panel from said roof, and a base adapted to inhibit slipping of the anchor on said roof. Preferably the integral ballast is such that the mass of the anchor is at least 15 kg. | 12-05-2013 |
20130318894 | Self-Ballasted, Roof-Integrated, Lightweight FRC PV Mounting System - A ballast tile system for supporting photovoltaic modules that includes at least one fiber-reinforced concrete ballast tile. The at least one ballast tile has a first mounting member extending upwardly from a top surface thereof, the first mounting member configured to receive a lower end of a photovoltaic module. The at least one ballast tile also has a second mounting member extending upwardly from the top surface thereof, the second mounting member configured to secure an upper edge of the photovoltaic module. | 12-05-2013 |
20130318895 | HOOK AND LOOP ATTACHMENT OF SOLAR PANELS TO ROOFING MEMBRANES - An energy generating system for placement on a roof structure is disclosed including one or more solar panels being secured to roof system components. The solar panels are secured thereto with hook and loop fasteners that may be integral with the roof system components. | 12-05-2013 |
20130326972 | STRUCTURAL DESIGN WITH REAR-VENTILATED CLADDING ELEMENTS - A structural design is proposed, comprising rear-ventilated cladding elements ( | 12-12-2013 |
20130333310 | Modular Structure, Modular Panel To Make Said Modular Structure And Corresponding Method To Make Said Modular Structure - Structure, such as a roof or a wall, comprising a plurality of modular panels ( | 12-19-2013 |
20140000186 | SOLAR DEVICE AND FASTENER MECHANISM THEREOF | 01-02-2014 |
20140000187 | PHOTOVOLTAIC MODULE AND MODULE ARRAYS | 01-02-2014 |
20140007528 | SOLAR POWER UNIT AND SYSTEM - One aspect of the present invention relates to a solar power unit comprising a frame, configured to be integrated into a building structure, for supporting a solar panel, the solar panel for generating a power signal, and a front cover for securing the solar panel to the frame. | 01-09-2014 |
20140013680 | PAN TILE ROOFING SYSTEM - A plurality of pan tiles are disposed in confronting, supported relation on an underlying roof support and in underlying, at least partially supporting relation to plurality of overlapping, exteriorly exposed roof tile. Each pan tile includes a planar base and two oppositely disposed planar side segments extending outwardly from opposite peripheries of said base at a common, preferred obtuse angle. Leading and trailing ends of pan tiles have a greater and lesser transverse dimension respectively, wherein the side segments or oriented in a converging configuration extending from the leading end to the trailing end of the pan tile. Solar energy systems may also be incorporated in the pan tiles and a heat dissipating assembly and/or a stabilizing assembly may also be included. | 01-16-2014 |
20140020312 | WINDOWS AND DOORS HAVING INTEGRATED SOLAR POWERED CHARGING DEVICES - An integral energy collector and charging system is provided in windows, associated screens and doors so as to facilitate harvesting of solar energy through solar energy collectors unique distribution channels for employing such energy to charge storage batteries which, in turn, provide energy to power outlets. The power outlets may be accessed in order to charge various types of devices. The system is employable with a wide variety of window and door constructions. | 01-23-2014 |
20140026499 | Net-Zero Energy Curtain Wall - Curtain walls according to embodiments of the present disclosure integrate a variety of energy producing and/or energy saving features and may be used to clad buildings to achieve net zero energy or low energy ratings. A curtain wall may comprise: a support frame; a grid assembly attached to the support frame; and, panels and cassettes each comprising a prefabricated unit attached to a frame; wherein the assembly is configured for ease of attachment of the frames carrying the prefabricated units. A wide range of different panels and cassettes with different functions can be integrated into the curtain wall, such as glazing, electrochromic, solar, photovoltaic (PV) and aluminum. | 01-30-2014 |
20140033625 | Photovoltaic Roofing Systems With Inner Corner Flashings - The present invention relates particularly to photovoltaic roofing products for use in photovoltaically generating electrical energy and provides inside corner flashings useful for flashing photovoltaic roofing systems in which photovoltaic roofing elements are disposed in a staggered configuration. | 02-06-2014 |
20140041321 | Building Systems - A new system of building construction, technology and methods for making the skin complex of a building as elements on a roof or façade of which solar panels/systems are a part are disclosed. | 02-13-2014 |
20140053477 | MULTIFUNCTIONAL PHOTOVOLTAIC SKYLIGHT WITH DYNAMIC SOLAR HEAT GAIN COEFFICIENT AND/OR METHODS OF MAKING THE SAME - Improved building-integrated photovoltaic systems according to certain example embodiments may include concentrated photovoltaic skylights or other windows having a cylindrical lens array. The skylight may include an insulated glass unit, which may improve the Solar Heat Gain Coefficient (SHGC). The photovoltaic skylight and lens arrays may be used in combination with strip solar cells. Arrangements that involve lateral displacement tracking systems, or static systems (e.g., that are fixed at one, two, or more predefined positions) are contemplated herein. Such techniques may advantageously help to reduce cost per watt related, in part, to the potentially reduced amount of semiconductor material to be used for such example embodiments. A photovoltaic skylight may permit diffuse daylight to pass through into an interior of a building so as to provide lighting inside the building, while the strip solar cells absorb the direct sunlight and convert it to electricity, providing for SHGC tuning. | 02-27-2014 |
20140069036 | ROOF TILE - The present invention relates to a tile for a roof or the like comprising a tile body with at least one vacuumed closed space to provide the tile with a thermal insulation barrier for the maintenance of a more stable temperature within an internal roof area. The tile body is manufactured from recycled glass and preferably is formed as foam glass containing a plurality of vacuum containing bubbles. The tile also comprises at least one energy recovery means such as heat absorbing aluminium wafers to provide for heat transfer through conductivity into a hot water supply or voltaic cells to provide for electricity generation. Light is focused onto the energy recovery device by a profiled translucent cover. These and other variations provide for a roof tile which is environmentally friendly, easy to install with improved thermal, energy efficient and sound-proofing qualities. | 03-13-2014 |
20140083028 | ROOF SOLAR PANEL FOR CONVENTIONAL SLOPING ROOF AND SHINGLE INTEGRATION - There is provided an improved roof solar panel, embodying an array of photovoltaic cells mounted on conventional modular roof sheathing, that can be readily and easily installed onto a conventional sloped roof and integrated into conventional roof shingles. Such panel includes a shingle mounting surface on a perimeter area of the sheathing, a flash strip mounted inside such shingle mounting surface and, when installed on the roof, a retainer trim for securing shingles mounted on said shingle mounting surface, while mounting to the flash strip and sealing to a perimeter of a rigid transparent protective sheet over the array. The retainer trim also serves to provide means for securing the panel onto roof trusses. Integration with the conventional roof shingling provides, inter alia, an attractive low profile with improved water shedding and wind resistance properties. There is also an intermediate roof solar panel, for installation on a roof so as to provide the aforementioned improved roof solar panel. The invention also relates to a kit comprising, inter alia, said intermediate roof solar panel, and to a method of installing said intermediate roof solar panel. | 03-27-2014 |
20140090316 | MINIMAL PENETRATION MODULAR ROOF-TOP MOUNTING RACKS AND SOLAR PHOTOVOLTAIC SYSTEMS INCORPORATING THE SAME - The present invention provides for a modular, plug-and-play DC/AC compatible solar photovoltaic power system and mounting frames therefor, having inexpensive modular designs which require no or minimal penetration for rooftop installation and provide enhanced wind-induced position disruption protection. | 04-03-2014 |
20140096462 | ADJUSTABLE MOUNTING ASSEMBLY FOR STANDING SEAM PANELS - An adjustable mounting assembly ( | 04-10-2014 |
20140096463 | ADJUSTABLE SOLAR PANEL CAP AND METHOD OF MANUFACTURING SAME - A solar panel cap and light cap secured to a wall or parapet through the use of a fixed coping having two vertical supports on either side of a locking channel. The vertical supports are biased or resilient to secure the coping to the top of the parapet or wall. The locking channel is configured to slidably receive a locking insert from a solar panel cap or light cap, each configured to connect to an adjacent cap such that they are electrically coupled. The solar panel caps include a horizontal base and an angled solar panel pivotally attached on one edge to the horizontal base. Support plates are pivotally attached to opposite edges of both the horizontal base and the angled solar panel such that when they overlap and are secured to one another the angled solar panel is adjustably positionable relative to the horizontal base. | 04-10-2014 |
20140102016 | SOLAR PANEL ATTACHMENT SYSTEM FOR A ROOF - An attachment system is provided. In another aspect, a latching assembly is mounted to a building roof. Another aspect employs a moveable latch that removeably attaches an auxiliary component, such as a solar panel, to a building in a single motion and/or snap-in installation manner. | 04-17-2014 |
20140109496 | PANEL MOUNTING BRACKET FOR STANDING SEAM ROOF AND RELATED METHODS - A system is provided for mounting at least one solar panel on a roof having standing seams protruding outwardly therefrom. The system may include a plurality of panel mounting brackets each comprising first and second flanges laterally spaced apart to define a seam channel therebetween, with the seam channel for receiving a given standing seam therein when the first and second flanges are positioned on the roof straddling the given standing seam. Each panel mounting bracket may also include a vertical extension portion carried by the first and second flanges. The system may further include a plurality of clamps each configured to couple the vertical extension portion of a respective panel mounting bracket with the at least one solar panel. | 04-24-2014 |
20140115980 | ABOVE-DECK ROOF VENTING ARTICLE - An exemplary building construction assembly for installation on a roof deck including a base layer and a channel structure coupled to the base layer and defining a plurality of channels is described. In an exemplary embodiment, the plurality of channels include a first airflow channel and second airflow channel extending in parallel through the channel structure. The plurality of channels further includes a venting channel between the first and second airflow channels and the base layer. The channel structure defines one or more apertures between the venting channel and each of the first and second airflow channels configured to allow airflow from the first and second airflow channels into the venting channel. The base layer defines one or more exit orifices in airflow communication with the venting channel and configured such that air in the venting channel exits the building construction assembly through the one or more exit orifices. | 05-01-2014 |
20140115981 | WIRELESS SOLAR SHINGLE PANEL AND A METHOD FOR IMPLEMENTING SAME - A shingle and method is provided, wherein the shingle includes a shingle back having at least one back conductive trace and a shingle front configured to securely include at least one solar cell. The shingle front includes at least one front conductive trace configurable such that when the shingle front includes a solar cell, the solar cell is conductively connected to the at least one front conductive trace in a series fashion. At least one of the back conductive traces is conductively connected to at least one of the front conductive traces. The back conductive traces and the front conductive traces are configured such that when the shingle is associated with a like shingle, the back conductive trace of the like shingle is conductively connected to the at least one front conductive trace of the shingle to be in a series fashion. | 05-01-2014 |
20140130429 | Photovoltaic Roofing Elements And Photovoltaic Roofing Systems - 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. | 05-15-2014 |
20140137489 | FASTENING SYSTEM FOR FASTENING SOLAR MODULES - A fastening system including a plurality of fastening modules to mount a solar module having a first longitudinal direction on a roof structure or a façade having a second longitudinal direction. Each fastening module comprises one module carrier mountable on the roof structure or on the façade; a slide block guidable inside the module carrier; a module clamp; and a fastener to connect the module clamp to the slide block to clamp a respective solar module between the module clamp and the slide block. The module clamp is rotatable between two positions on the fastener so that an arrangement of the fastening modules permits the solar module to be mounted on the roof structure or the façade with the first longitudinal axis perpendicular or parallel to the second direction. | 05-22-2014 |
20140150357 | COMPOSITE INSULATING PANEL - A method for manufacturing a composite insulated panel ( | 06-05-2014 |
20140157693 | SOLAR PANEL - A solar panel is described. The solar panel has at least a support layer and, arranged one on top of the other, a first intermediate layer, at least one solar cell, a second intermediate layer, and a front pane. The solar panel also has a first edge reinforcing layer and a second edge reinforcing layer, at least one terminal housing, and at least two collecting conductors which connect the solar cell to the terminal housing in an electrically conductive manner. The support layer has a portion that projects over the periphery of the front pane. The first edge reinforcing layer is arranged above the peripheral projection and has a cutout. The second edge reinforcement layer is arranged above the first edge reinforcement layer and has an opening. The collecting conductor is located in a cut-out section and in an opening. | 06-12-2014 |
20140157694 | PHOTOVOLTAIC SYSTEMS, METHODS FOR INSTALLING PHOTOVOLTAIC SYSTEMS, AND KITS FOR INSTALLING PHOTOVOLTAIC SYSTEMS - The present invention relates particularly to photovoltaic systems for use in photovoltaically generating electrical energy. One aspect of the invention is a photovoltaic roofing system disposed on a roof deck. The photovoltaic roofing system includes one or more photovoltaic elements contiguously disposed on the roof deck, the contiguously-disposed photovoltaic elements defining a photovoltaic area; a plurality of roofing elements disposed adjacent the contiguously-disposed photovoltaic elements, along their side edges; side flashing disposed along the side edges of the contiguously-disposed photovoltaic elements, the side flashing having a cross-sectional shape comprising a vertically-extending feature and a flange extending from each lateral side at the bottom of the vertically-extending feature, with the flange facing the photovoltaic area being at least partially disposed between a photovoltaic element and the roof deck, and the flange facing away from the photovoltaic area being at least partially disposed between a roofing element and the roof deck. | 06-12-2014 |
20140165480 | Photovoltaic Roofing Elements and Photovoltaic Roofing Systems - The present invention relates generally to the photovoltaic generation of electrical energy. The present invention relates more particularly to photovoltaic arrays for use in photovoitaically 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. | 06-19-2014 |
20140174004 | Photovoltaic Roofing Elements - The present invention relates generally to the photovoltaic generation of electrical energy. The present invention relates more particularly to photovoltaic roofing products for use in photovoltaically generating electrical energy. One aspect of the invention is a photovoltaic roofing element including a roofing substrate; a photovoltaic element disposed on the roofing substrate; an electrical connector operatively connected to the photovoltaic element, the electrical connector having a top side, a down-roof side and an electrical terminus; and a shield disposed adjacent the electrical terminus of the electrical connector on its down-roof side, its top side, or both. | 06-26-2014 |
20140182222 | Photovoltaic Arrays, Methods and Kits Therefor - 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. One aspect of the invention is a photovoltaic array including a first photovoltaic module and a second photovoltaic module, each comprising a set of linearly arranged features extending from its lateral edge, and an electrical element on its surface, wherein the lateral distance between the electrical element and the center of the linearly-arranged feature closest to the lateral edge is different in the first photovoltaic module than in the second. | 07-03-2014 |
20140190096 | SYSTEM AND METHOD OF ASSEMBLING STRUCTURAL SOLAR PANELS - A modular assembly of solar panels is held together in a rigid fashion through the use of two J-channels arranged on either side thereof in oppositely facing directions. Brackets hold these J-channels to flanges on the underside of the solar panels. In the argot of solar panel installation, the J-channels extend in the north-south direction. Between each solar panel there is disposed a liquid collecting pan extending in the east-west direction. This collecting pan also acts as a clip providing both a structural and electrical connection between adjacently disposed solar panels in a column assembly which is rendered capable of installation as a single unit from the ground. | 07-10-2014 |
20140196386 | UNIVERSAL NON-PENETRATING ROOF SOLAR PANEL MOUNTING SYSTEM - A roof-based system for suspending photovoltaic modules, such as solar panels, relative to a roof surface without penetration of the roof surface. Cables under tension span the roof surface, with opposed ends of the cables securely mounted to generally C-shaped cable arm assemblies that wrap around the roof edge for connection via pivot joint assemblies to the underside of an overhanging eave, the immediate side wall of the structure below the roof, or directly to roof edge fascia. The system is completely contained to the roof area with no penetration of any parts through the roof surface. Vertical and horizontal rails set upon the roof surface, but not attached to the roof surface, support the weight of the photovoltaic modules attached thereto, while the cables, under tension, hold down the rails in position relative to the roof surface. | 07-17-2014 |
20140196387 | Covered Parking Structure Adjustable Solar Energy Collector Holder and Parking Lot Thereof - A covered parking structure has a frame with first and second opposing surfaces. The surface has at least one solar energy collection panel therein. A device, removably connectable to the second opposing surface of the frame allows the frame to be adjusted in two or more axes relative to the vehicle parking lot. The structure also has a pedestal with first and second opposing ends. The first end of the pedestal is mountable in a surface of the vehicle parking lot at one end thereof, and in between, two adjacent vehicle spaces. The second end of the pedestal is mountable to the planar frame by the device for adjusting. The length of the pedestal makes an acute angle with the surface of the vehicle parking lot such that the pedestal does not interfere with the opening of doors of automobiles parked in the two adjacent vehicle spaces. | 07-17-2014 |
20140202092 | SOLAR COLLECTOR AND BUILDING INCLUDING A SOLAR COLLECTOR ROOF - A self-contained structural assembly wherein the roof is exclusively formed by a flat plate type, solar thermal panel (STP) designed to heat water, having a transparent glazing. The STP is designed with lateral riser tubes as the flow path of the heat transfer fluid. The STP includes header tubes that are configured to protrude out the back of the STP. A shed having at least four walls that form the frame upon which the STP rests. | 07-24-2014 |
20140208670 | Photovoltaic Roofing Elements, Photovoltaic Roofing Systems, Methods and Kits - The present invention relates generally to the photovoltaic generation of electrical energy. The present invention relates more particularly to photovoltaic roofing products for use in photovoltaically generating electrical energy. One aspect of the invention is a photovoltaic roofing element comprising: a flexible roofing substrate; a photovoltaic element disposed on the flexible roofing substrate; and an electrical connector operatively coupled to the photovoltaic element, wherein the flexible roofing substrate has formed therein a recess shaped to at least partially receive the electrical connector. | 07-31-2014 |
20140237915 | ROOF TILES AND RELATED SYSTEMS - Roof tile systems for structures are provided. A representative system including solar panel tile having a top side for facing away from a structure, a bottom side for facing the structure, a left side, a right side, an upper side for facing the upslope direction and lower side for facing the downslope direction, the solar panel tile defining a cavity sized and shaped for mounting therein a solar panel, the solar panel tile having a first rib extending across the cavity; and a solar panel mounted within the cavity and supported by the first rib such that the solar panel is flush mounted with respect to the top side of the solar panel tile; the solar panel tile being a first of multiple solar panel tiles, with the multiple tiles being operative to engage in a side-by-side arrangement to form at least a partial course of tiles of the system. | 08-28-2014 |
20140245672 | ADJUSTABLE SOLAR PANEL SYSTEM - A solar panel cap and light cap secured to a wall or parapet through the use of a fixed coping and a secured bracket. The secured bracket has a securing plate mechanically attached to a top of the wall and upper and lower extensions extending above and below the top of the wall along its sides. The fixed coping has two vertical supports on either side of a locking channel. The vertical supports are biased or resilient to secure the coping to the secured bracket with the upper extensions providing full contact along the length of the vertical supports. The locking channel is configured to slidably receive a locking insert from a solar panel cap or light cap, each configured to connect to an adjacent cap such that they are electrically coupled. | 09-04-2014 |
20140259998 | Multi-Purpose Ridge Vent System - A solar ridge vent includes an elongated laterally flexible panel having edge portions and ventilation grids extending along the edge portions. Channel members extend along the edge portions of the panel and define channels that have channel openings facing inwardly. The channels are sized to receive edges of auxiliary components to hold the auxiliary components on the ridge vent. The auxiliary components may be ridge cap shingles, slate cap shingles, light emitting emergency location panels, or fluid heating panels. In a preferred embodiment, solar power generating panels are configured to be mounted on the ridge vent with its edges held in the channels. A remote electrical box has chargeable batteries, a power inverter, and an AC outlet to provide electrical power in an emergency. | 09-18-2014 |
20140259999 | Low Profile Slate-Style Solar Roofing System - A solar roofing panel has a rectangular body with solar cells exposed on the upper surface of the body and an electrical junction box on the lower surface of body along the forward edge portion thereof. A cutout is formed in the upper edge portion of the rectangular body at a corner thereof. When a plurality of solar panels are arranged on a roof in courses with an upper course partially overlapping a lower course, the junction boxes of roofing panels in the upper course are disposed in the cutouts of roofing panels of the lower course. Accordingly, the solar roofing panels present a low profile mimicking the profile of slate-style shingles. | 09-18-2014 |
20140260000 | ROOFING, CLADDING OR SIDING PRODUCT, ITS MANUFACTURE AND ITS USE AS PART OF A SOLAR ENERGY RECOVERY SYSTEM - This disclosure provides a roofing, cladding or siding product which is light weight, easy to install, durable and resistant to environmental wear. One embodiment relates to a module that can be used to form a weatherproof covering over top of a building surface. Another embodiment is a module which can, in additional to forming a weatherproof covering, be used as part of a thermal energy recovery or removal system. Yet another embodiment is a module which can, in addition to forming a weatherproof covering, and optionally in addition to being useful as part of a thermal energy recovery system, bears an array of solar cells to generate electrical energy. Assemblies, systems, uses, and methods of manufacture are also described. | 09-18-2014 |
20140260001 | LOW PROFILE SOLAR ROOF SHINGLE SYSTEM WITH INTEGRATED NANO-INVERTERS - A solar roof shingle for providing AC electrical power when exposed to sunlight includes a shingle frame having a bottom panel supportable on a roof deck, a top panel, and a thickness between the bottom panel and the top panel. The solar roof shingle also includes a solar collector mounted to and covering at least a portion to the top panel of the shingle frame, with the solar panel producing DC electrical energy at DC terminals when the solar collector is exposed to sunlight. A nano-inverter is disposed within the shingle frame between the bottom panel and the top panel and is electrically coupled to the DC terminals. The nano-inverter converts DC electrical energy to AC electrical energy available at AC terminals mounted to the shingle frame. The nano-inverter has a maximum power rating of 150 Watts or less so that it produces substantially less heat during operation allowing the thickness of the solar roof shingle to approach that of a standard roofing shingle. | 09-18-2014 |
20140260002 | DOUBLE LAYER SOLAR HEATING-AND-COOLING THERMOSYPHON SYSTEM - A solar liquid-heating-and-cooling system ( | 09-18-2014 |
20140260003 | WALL STRUCTURE - A wall structure for a building, comprising a cavity ( | 09-18-2014 |
20140283467 | PANEL, ASSEMBLY OF PANELS AND ASSOCIATED ROOFING - The present invention provides a panel having a profile. The panel includes a first longitudinal edge including in succession a first longitudinal rib, a flange, and a second longitudinal rib. Each longitudinal rib includes an upper central part and two lateral wings. The panel also includes a central part and a second longitudinal edge including in succession a first lateral portion, a protruding part, and a second lateral portion. The lateral portions have a configuration permitting them to at least partially overlap the upper central parts of the first and second longitudinal ribs. The protruding part is capable of receiving a fastener. The present invention also provides an assembly of panels marginally overlapping, a roofing and a kit for fabrication of roofing. | 09-25-2014 |
20140290157 | WINDOW AS SOLAR HVAC PORTAL - Described are a cooperating solar energy collector panel and an energy converter, at least one of which is adapted to fit within a window opening. Preferably, the solar collector panel and/or energy converter are movable into or within the window opening to allow for the window to still be able to open to let in fresh air, or be free from obstruction to permit entry of light or a view to the outdoors when the solar collector panel and/or energy converter are not in use. In one version, the solar collector panel is adapted to be remote from the window opening, for example, on the top of an awning above the window opening. The bottom of the awning in this case may be adapted to contain an energy converter which may be moved into the window opening to distribute heat into a building. | 10-02-2014 |
20140305050 | SOLAR MODULE SUPPORT FOR COVERING OBLIQUE OBJECT SURFACES WITH HOMOGENEOUS AREA COVERAGE - A solar module support for covering oblique object surfaces is disclosed. The solar module support has a lower lying continuous edge area, which acts as a lower overlap area between adjacent solar module supports, which adjoins at an upper edge and a lateral edge. At least one web runs on this edge area which forms a channel for water between the web and the receiving surface. On the underside of the respectively opposite edge, a recess is provided, which has a groove corresponding to the web and which acts as the upper overlap area between adjacent solar module supports. The recess and the groove are dimensioned such that the receiving surfaces lie in the same plane and the web in each case engages in the groove in such a manner that direct contact of the overlap areas is achieved on the web and an interspace remains between the overlap areas. | 10-16-2014 |
20140311061 | Solar Power Unit And System - One aspect of the present invention relates to a solar power unit comprising a frame, configured to be integrated into a building structure, for supporting a solar panel, the solar panel for generating a power signal, and a front cover for securing the solar panel to the frame. | 10-23-2014 |
20140318045 | Roof mounting system - A roof mounting system and method for mounting an array of discrete modules such as a plurality of photovoltaic panels to a roof comprising a plurality of support rails configured to cooperative support the plurality of photovoltaic modules securely adhered to the roof with a spray polyurethane foam covered by a protective coating of elastomeric material. | 10-30-2014 |
20140318046 | PURLIN CONSTRUCTION FOR ROOF STRUCTURES - An elongated purlin for use in roof structures including an elongated solid continuous strip of metal, the strip of metal having multiple bends parallel with the longitudinal axis to form and define an elongated mounting wall, an elongated upright wall extending from the mounting wall, a first cross piece extending horizontally outwardly in opposite directions from the plane of the upright wall, a second cross piece integrally attached to the first cross piece and extending horizontally outwardly in opposite directions from the plane of the upright wall, and each of the first and second cross pieces having bent double layer construction. The first and second cross pieces are spaced apart to define channels designed to receive an edge of a solar panel or roof section engaged therein. | 10-30-2014 |
20140331572 | Modular system with solar roof - A series of individual modular panels are combined to create a completed structure. Panels for floor, wall and roof are joined at common bearing points. The roof frame is a combination of pyramid and hip shaped units connected to create the structural framework for standard and multi-pitched pyramid and hip-type roofs. The structural framework acts as a single unit and creates both the exterior and interior shape in one assembly. The lower horizontal carriage of the roofs structural framework allows for easy installation of ceiling panels. The upper exterior diagonal and horizontal framework allows for easily installed weather tight roof panels. PV solar panels can be integrated into the roof panels, eliminating the need for additional racking. Lightweight tents as well as heavy commercial applications can benefit from this roof system. Electric supply lines are accommodated for with hollow channels integrated into the structural assembly. | 11-13-2014 |
20140338272 | Photovoltaic Roofing Elements Including Tie Layer Systems, And Roofs Using Them, And Methods For Making Them - The present invention relates generally to photovoltaic devices. The present invention relates more particularly to photovoltaic roofing products in which a photovoltaic element is joined to a roofing substrate. In one embodiment, the present invention provides a photovoltaic roofing element comprising: an encapsulated photovoltaic element having a top surface and a bottom surface, a top layer material at its top surface and a bottom layer material at its bottom surface; a roofing substrate having a top surface; and a tie layer system disposed between the encapsulated photovoltaic element and the roofing substrate and joining the bottom surface of the encapsulated photovoltaic element to the top surface of the roofing substrate. | 11-20-2014 |
20140338273 | SOLAR PANEL ROOF MOUNTING BRACKET AND RELATED METHODS - A system for mounting at least one solar panel on a roof may include a plurality of panel mounting brackets each including a base to be positioned on the roof having a first opening(s) therein, and a vertical extension having a proximal end coupled to the base, a distal end, and a central portion extending between the proximal and distal ends. The distal end may define a fastener channel having a fastener slot opening vertically aligned with the first opening(s) in the base. The central portion may include a cross member(s) defining a second opening(s) therein vertically aligned with the fastener slot opening and the first opening(s) in the base. The system may further include a bracket fastener(s) to be inserted through the fastener slot opening, the second opening(s), and the first opening(s) of a respective panel mounting bracket and coupled to the roof. | 11-20-2014 |
20140345212 | SOLAR LIGHT ROOF PANEL ABUTMENT STRUCTURE - A roof panel abutment structure is disclosed. The structure comprises; a roof frame, a first roof panel having one end coupled to the roof frame, the one end formed in a shape in which a recess is inserted between a pair of ridges on a cross section thereof, a bolt fastened to the recess portion to fix the first roof panel to the roof frame; a second roof panel having an opposite end thereof coupled to one end of the first roof panel; a first adaptor having a base and a wing portion connected to both side of the base, wherein the base is fixed to the recess portion by means of the fastening of the bolt, and the wing portion is coupled to both side of T groove, a second adaptor formed in a shape corresponding to the shape of T groove, a clamp installed such that a bottom is coupled to the second adaptor, and a solar panel coupled to the clamp and installed to cover the roof panel. The roof panel abutment has increased strength, and even if a portion of the roof panel is deformed, the upper panel is not disengaged so as to maintain the abutment structure. | 11-27-2014 |
20140345213 | ROOF MOUNT ASSEMBLY - A solar panel mounting assembly for mounting a solar panel to a roof surface includes a bracket having a slot with a generally t-shaped cross section that extends along at least a portion of a length of the bracket, a first fastener having a head end positioned in the slot and a shaft. The first fastener slides along the slot in a direction substantially parallel to the roof surface. The assembly further includes a membrane positioned between the roof surface and the bracket. The bracket is connected to the roof surface by at least one of a group consisting of the membrane and a second fastener, and the generally t-shaped cross section includes a first wide portion sized to receive the head end of the fastener and a second narrow portion sized to receive the shaft of the fastener. | 11-27-2014 |
20140352236 | ADJUSTABLE SOLAR PANEL CAP AND METHOD OF MANUFACTURING SAME - A solar panel cap and light cap secured to a wall or parapet through the use of a fixed coping having two vertical supports on either side of a locking channel. The vertical supports are biased or resilient to secure the coping to the top of the parapet or wall. The locking channel is configured to slidably receive a locking insert from a solar panel cap or light cap, each configured to connect to an adjacent cap such that they are electrically coupled. The solar panel caps include a horizontal base and an angled solar panel pivotally attached on one edge to the horizontal base. Support plates are pivotally attached to opposite edges of both the horizontal base and the angled solar panel such that when they overlap and are secured to one another the angled solar panel is adjustably positionable relative to the horizontal base. | 12-04-2014 |
20140352237 | Solar Light (Heat) Absorption Material and Heat Absorption/Accumulation Material and Solar Light (Heat) Absorption/Control Building Component Using the Same - A solar light (heat) absorption material which has an excellent solar light (heat) absorbing ability and a simple structure, and may be used as a low-cost and high-performance heat absorption/accumulation material. Also, a solar light (heat) absorption/control building component including the solar light (heat) absorption material that allows for easy change of its solar light (heat) absorption/control ability. The material includes particles dispersed into a liquid medium having a specific heat ranging from 0.4 to 1.4 cal/g/° C. and a melting point of 5° C. or lower. The dispersed particles have L*value of 30 or less as determined by the CIE-Lab color system (light source D65). | 12-04-2014 |
20140360111 | Frame for Supporting Solar Module - A frame for supporting a solar module is disclosed. The frame includes a bar base and a first support. The bar base has at least two positioning holes. The first support is utilized for being engaged with the bar base. The first support includes two first sidewalls, two first extension portions, and a first top plate. Each of the first sidewalls has a first opening. Each of the first extension portions extends from an edge of the corresponding first opening toward an interior of the first support. An angle is included between each of the first extension portions and the corresponding first sidewall. The first top plate is disposed on top of the first sidewalls. Each of the first extension portions is trapped in the corresponding positioning hole when the first support is engaged with the bar base. | 12-11-2014 |
20140366464 | ROOF INTEGRATED PHOTOVOLTAIC SYSTEM - A roof integrated photovoltaic system includes a plurality of photovoltaic panels each having a right end, a left end, a front edge, and a back edge. A right end coupler is secured to the right ends of at least some of the photovoltaic panels and a left end coupler is secured to the left ends of at least some of the photovoltaic panels. The right end couplers and the left end couplers are configured to interlock and form a seal when two of the plurality of panels are moved into end-to-end engagement with each other. At least one front edge coupler is affixed to at least some of the plurality of photovoltaic panels at the front edges thereof and at least one back edge coupler is affixed to at least some of the plurality of photovoltaic panels at the back edges thereof. The front edge couplers and the back edge couplers configured to interlock when two of the plurality of panels are moved into edge-to-edge engagement and a seal is positioned to prevent water from penetrating at the junction of a front edge of one panel and the back edge of an adjoined panel. Panels are installed on a roof in end-to-end and front edge to back edge relationship to form a photovoltaic array and are electrically interconnected to produce electricity when exposed to sunlight. Flashing and gap filling faux panels are provided as part of the system. | 12-18-2014 |
20140366465 | STAND FOR SUPPORTING SOLAR PANELS ON A FLAT ROOF - A stand for supporting solar panels on a flat roof is disclosed. The stand has a foot part, which has a base plate for support on the flat roof, and a head part, which has a support area for solar panels, wherein the head part and the foot part are two separate parts. The foot part has integral lock bars and the head part has integral lock bars. The lock bars connect the head part and the foot part to one another in a form-fitting manner. | 12-18-2014 |
20140366466 | SOLAR ENERGY COLLECTING SYSTEMS AND METHODS - In accordance with various exemplary embodiments, solar energy shade structures and methods of design and revenue generation are disclosed. These systems comprise structures capable of supporting solar panel at heights greater than 18 feet above their mounting surface. These systems may be installed in confined spaces. These systems also comprise structures that are customizable, allowing an installation to be configured with a desired lighting and environmental effect. The methods discussed herein describe processes for achieving desired design effects based on natural elements. Moreover, the methods discussed herein describe processes for reducing the costs of generating solar energy and/or reducing the costs of providing a solar structure. | 12-18-2014 |
20150027069 | Photovoltaic Roofing Components and Systems - The present invention relates particularly to photovoltaic roofing systems in which photovoltaic elements are integrated on a roof deck with conventional roofing materials. In one aspect, a photovoltaic roofing system includes a two-part tee element disposed on a roof deck, the two-part tee element comprising a base piece including a central portion; two opposed horizontally-extending first and second flanges extending from the central portion, and a top piece attachment feature formed in the central portion, and a top piece including a base piece attachment feature mated with the top piece attachment feature of the base piece; and a vertically extending portion extending from the base piece attachment feature. A first photovoltaic element can be disposed on the roof adjacent the base piece with its edge disposed on the horizontally-extending first flange of the base piece of the two-part tee element. | 01-29-2015 |
20150027070 | FASTENING SYSTEM, IN PARTICULAR FOR COMPONENTS OF PHOTOVOLTAIC SYSTEMS - A fastening system, in particular for components of photovoltaic systems, preferably on roof surfaces of buildings, includes providing a support surface ( | 01-29-2015 |
20150052834 | GROUND MOUNTED SOLAR MODULE INTEGRATION SYSTEM - Embodiments of the present inventions are directed to systems, devices for use with systems, and method of mounting and retaining solar panels. A solar module mounting system may include: a support mechanism including a support post pivotably attached to a support base, and an attachment module for attaching a solar panel to the support mechanism. | 02-26-2015 |
20150059266 | MODULAR, SELF SUPPORTING EXTERIOR ENCLOSURE SYSTEM WITH INSULATING, EVACUATED TUBES HAVING SOLAR COLLECTOR RODS - A tubular building enclosure system for unitized assembly in rows and columns to form a structurally self-supporting, thermally insulating, and solar energy collecting facade. | 03-05-2015 |
20150089887 | LIGHT WEIGHT MOLDED ROOF TILE WITH INTEGRATED SOLAR CAPABILITIES - An improved building roof tile for a sloping roof including a polyurethane foam tile that includes outer coating layers that are made of a uniquely fire resistant or retardant layered system that includes a first outer fire resistant layer of 100% solid aliphatic polyurea material and a second inner layer of an 100% solid intumescent non-halogenated phosphate material, said inner layer forming a fire blocking partition and said outer layer offering UV protection, featherweight, category 5 hurricane proof, yields a high R-value, offer low thermal transference into attic space, will retrofit any sloped roof without structural build-up, can be molded into single or triple units, cannot break under foot or when extreme pressures are applied, can produce upgradable solar energy, is easy to transport and install and can molded to look like slate, wood, flat roll tile or most other historical tiles. | 04-02-2015 |
20150101270 | BASE SHEET INTEGRATED PHOTOVOLATIC ROOFING ASSEMBLIES - Provided are novel building integrable photovoltaic (BIP) assemblies and methods of installation thereof on building structures. The BIP assembly includes a base sheet or a sheath, which may be a plywood board or an oriented strand (OSB) board, and multiple electrically interconnected photovoltaic inserts, which are attached to and supported by the base sheet. The base sheet is configured to be positioned directly the building structures, such as roof rafters. Various electrical components may be positioned within cavities of the base sheet and/or at the back side of that sheet. Such components are configured to align in between the roof rafters during installation. The spacing between the rafters provides access to the components and allows the components to extend away from the base sheet and into the spacing. Various electrical components may be installed and removed from the BIP assembly during its fabrication and/or installation. | 04-16-2015 |
20150101271 | STRUCTURE WITH SURFACE FOR SEASONAL SELECTIVENESS OF SOLAR IRRADIATION ABSORPTION AND REFLECTION - Disclosed are various structure surface configurations and related methods. An exemplary structure includes a facade that has grooved cavities that are configured in a manner that reflects summer (cooling season) insolation and absorbs winter (heating season) insolation. The effective absorptivities of the exemplary structure for various cavity reflectance characteristics, i.e., a wide range of diffuse and specular reflectance characteristics, are evaluated using a Monte Carlo model. The calculations in an illustrated embodiment are performed for the latitude of 41° N where both heating and cooling loads are significant. Embodiments of various structures are similarly within the scope of the disclosure for locations of different latitudes and longitudes. | 04-16-2015 |
20150107168 | SECURING STRUCTURE FOR SOLAR CELL MODULE - The securing structure for a solar cell module includes a placement member installed on roof and having a groove in an upper surface, an external thread portion extending upward from the placement member, at least one flat plate-like shim member having a slit through which the external thread portion passes and a through-hole, and stacked on the placement member, a flat plate-like connecting member placed on the shim member, having an insertion hole through which the external thread portion passes, a droop portion drooping in the groove of the placement member through the through-hole, and a plurality of upward projecting portions projecting upward and sticking in the solar cell module, and having conductive property, and a first securing member and a second securing member pressing downward the solar cell module placed on the connecting member with screwing between the external thread portion and an internal thread portion. | 04-23-2015 |
20150113889 | PANEL MOUNTING BRACKET WITH UNDER-MOUNTING CLAMP AND RELATED METHODS - A system for mounting a solar panel(s) on a building, where the solar panel has an outer frame defining a lip. The system may include a plurality of panel mounting brackets each including a base to be positioned on the building, and a vertical extension having a proximal end coupled to the base and a distal end vertically spaced apart from the base, with the distal end defining a fastener channel therein. The system may also include a plurality of mounting clamps each including a bottom flange, and a top flange spaced apart from the bottom flange and partially overhanging the bottom flange and defining a slot therebetween to receive the lip. An end extension may couple respective ends of the bottom flange and top flange together, and a fastener channel connector may be coupled to the bottom flange and configured to be slidably received within the fastener channel. | 04-30-2015 |
20150121780 | WALKABLE PHOTOVOLTAIC FLOOR - Walkable photovoltaic floor, constituted of pieces of laminated glass composed of at least two layers of glass ( | 05-07-2015 |
20150311856 | BUILDING BODY WITH SOLAR TRACKING DEVICE - A building body with solar tracking device includes a top tent supported on the building body. The top tent includes at least one set of intersection section where multiple beams in different directions intersect each other. A support assembly of the solar tracking device is mounted on an upper side of the intersection section or in a position corresponding to the upper side of the intersection section. A solar generation module is mounted on the support assembly, whereby the top tent provides a sufficient strength for supporting the solar tracking device. | 10-29-2015 |
20150316292 | PIVOT-FIT FRAME, SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR PHOTOVOLTAIC MODULES - A system and apparatus are disclosed including PV modules having a frame allowing quick and easy assembling of the PV modules into a PV array in a sturdy and durable manner. In examples of the present technology, the PV modules may have a grooved frame where the groove is provided at an angle with respect to a planar surface of the modules. Various couplings may engage within the groove to assemble the PV modules into the PV array with a pivot-fit connection. Further examples of the present technology operate with PV modules having frames without grooves, or with PV modules where the frame is omitted altogether. | 11-05-2015 |
20150337516 | SEGMENTED BALLAST BASE SUPPORT STRUCTURE AND RAIL AND TROLLEY STRUCTURES FOR UNSTABLE GROUND - Unstable ground is found in many situations in many locations around the world and causes such locations to be unsuitable for building without further support or stabilization. Unstable ground, such as landfills, can be used for beneficial purposes as opposed to lying dormant. A segmented ballast base support structure according to an embodiment of the present invention can be configured to support free-standing structures, such as solar power collection systems and wind turbines. The segmented ballast base support structure can be deployed at unstable ground sites without digging or expensive filling stabilization techniques. Segments of the base support structure can be precast at an offsite location and transported to a site in segments and sections, and can then be arranged on-site to form the segmented base support structure. The transportability of the segments of the disclosed segmented base support structure enables offsite manufacturing to be utilized. | 11-26-2015 |
20150349700 | MODULAR STRAP MOUNT FOR SOLAR PANELS - A method and apparatus for mounting a solar collector panel by itself or supported within a frame, to a surface comprising: a strap assembly, a first attachment device attached to and between the panel or frame and the strap assembly; and a second attachment means for attaching the strap assembly to the surface. The strap assembly comprises a plurality of straps attached end to end. The first attachment device could be a bolt, a screw, adhesive, etc. Alternatively, there could be a support between the panel or frame and the strap assembly. The second attachment means may be: a nail, a spike, adhesive, bolting to a stud attached to the surface, welding, ballast, adhesive tape or combinations of these. | 12-03-2015 |
20160049899 | STRUCTURE OF VARIABLE LIGHT DISPLAY FOR VEHICLE TRAFFIC LANE(S) ELECTRICALLY POWER SUPPLIED BY PHOTOVOLTAIC PANELS - The structure ( | 02-18-2016 |
20160065117 | PHOTOVOLTAIC MODULE SUPPORT CLAMP ASSEMBLY - Apparatus and techniques for mounting frameless photovoltaic modules reduce module stress induced by the mounting configuration. Mounting clamps and rail/clamp spacing configured to relieve module stress by reducing or eliminating module sag are used, | 03-03-2016 |
20160072426 | METHODS AND DEVICES FOR COUPLING SOLAR PANEL SUPPORT STRUCTURES AND/OR SECURING SOLAR PANEL SUPPORT STRUCTURES TO A ROOF - A mounting unit for mounting a solar panel on a roof includes a base having a first flange and a second flange that extend laterally from the base and a mounting surface positioned above the base via walls that connect the mounting surface and the base. The mounting surface is couplable with the solar panel to elevate and orient the solar panel above a surface of the roof. The mounting unit also includes a flexible membrane material that is coupled with the first flange of the base and that extends laterally therefrom. The mounting unit further includes an adhesive or tape that is applied to an underside of the second flange so that the second flange is free of the flexible membrane material. The flexible membrane material is couplable with the roof and the adhesive or tape is adherable to the roof to secure the mounting unit to the roof. | 03-10-2016 |
20160111998 | DEVICE FOR FASTENING PV MODULES TO ROOFS HAVING A TRAPEZOIDAL METAL SHEET - Device for fastening at least one PV module ( | 04-21-2016 |
20160111999 | PANEL MOUNTING BRACKET ASSEMBLY INCLUDING AN ADJUSTABLE HEIGHT EXTENSION DEVICE AND RELATED METHODS - A system for mounting at least one solar panel on a building may include at least one panel mounting bracket including a base to be positioned on the building, and a vertical extension having a proximal end coupled to the base and a distal end vertically spaced apart from the base. The vertical extension may have a cavity extending vertically therein. The system may also include an adjustable height extension device for the at least one panel mounting bracket including a lower portion carried within the cavity of the vertical extension and vertically slidable within the cavity, an upper portion carried by the lower portion to be connected with the at least one solar panel, and a vertical height adjustment member carried by the upper portion to cause the lower portion to slide vertically within the cavity to adjust a vertical height of the upper portion. | 04-21-2016 |
20160126884 | HEIGHT ADJUSTMENT BRACKET FOR ROOF APPLICATIONS - A roof mount for mounting at least one solar panel to a roof surface including a base. The roof mount includes a clamp connected to the base and a first recess sized to support a first solar panel. The first recess has a first height extending between a first top flange and a first bottom flange. The clamp also includes a second recess sized to support one of a second solar panel and a skirt flange. The second recess has a second height extending between a second top flange and a second bottom flange. The roof mount further includes a fastener connected to the clamp. The second fastener is operable to adjust the first and second heights, such that upon tightening of the second fastener, the first height increases and the second height decreases, and upon loosening of the second fastener, the first height decreases and the second height increases. | 05-05-2016 |
20160126885 | Photovoltaic Roofing Elements And Photovoltaic Roofing Systems - 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. | 05-05-2016 |
20160134229 | WATER RESISTANT ROOF ASSEMBLY STRUCTURE INTEGRATED WITH SOLAR PANELS - A water resistant roof assembly structure integrated with solar panels, for constructing a roof of a building, includes multiple support units arranged at a distance from one another, multiple solar modules disposed across every two adjacent support units, and multiple clamping units. Each support unit includes two carrying sections, a connecting section and two water discharging sections. Each water discharging section includes a valley portion adjacent to the carrying section, and a peak portion away from and having a height as the carrying section. Two sides of each solar module are respectively leaned against the carrying section and the water discharging section of one of the support units. A water discharging channel is formed between the solar module and the water discharging section to limit rainwater to flow towards two sides of the building. Each clamping unit includes a fixing portion, two extension portions and two pressing portions. | 05-12-2016 |
20160164452 | Rail-Less Roof Mounting Clamp Assembly Components - A rail-less roof mounting system for installing photovoltaic (PV) modules on a roof structure comprises a base mount assembly that engages with a clamp assembly and attaches to the roof structure. The base mount assembly comprises a base member having a waterproof means, a block slider, a top slider and a covering means. An elevated seal portion of a block slider includes a borehole to receive the waterproof means. A vertical engaging portion of the block slider is attached with a sliding seal member of the top slider. The clamp assembly includes a clamp member and a plate member and the clamp member is attached with a track of the top slider. The clamp member interlocks the PV modules to provide a corner-to-corner coupling arrangement, which enables the connection of PV module corners to adjacent PV module corners by sandwiching above and beneath frame members of the PV modules. | 06-09-2016 |
20160181968 | DEVICE FOR PRODUCING ENERGY FROM SOLAR RADATION | 06-23-2016 |
20160254776 | ROOF INTEGRATED PHOTOVOLTAIC SYSTEM | 09-01-2016 |
20160376831 | GLAZING UNITS WITH CARTRIDGE-BASED CONTROL UNITS - Glazing units including a cartridge cavity outside of a seal that is located between the first and second panes to form a closed interior volume within the glazing unit are described herein, along with sashes, panels, window assemblies, and/or doors that may incorporate the glazing units. A control unit provided in a cartridge housing located in the cartridge cavity may be operably connected to one or more connected devices to provide any number of a variety of functions such as, e.g., sound control/production, optical effects, thermal effects, etc. | 12-29-2016 |
20170234009 | A BUILDING WALL AND A METHOD FOR MANUFACTURE | 08-17-2017 |
20170237387 | BUILDING INTEGRATED PHOTOVOLTAIC ROOFING ASSEMBLIES AND ASSOCIATED SYSTEMS AND METHODS | 08-17-2017 |
20180026576 | Structure and Support Member for Photovoltaic Arrays | 01-25-2018 |
20190145665 | PHOTOVOLTAIC MODULE MOUNTING ASSEMBLY | 05-16-2019 |
20220140771 | ROOF MOUNTING SYSTEM - A roof mount assembly mounts a structure to a roof having a rafter and a substrate supported by the rafter. The roof mount assembly includes a piece of flashing positioned on the substrate. The flashing includes a first surface, a second surface opposite the first surface and an aperture extending through the flashing. A fastener extends through the flashing aperture. A bracket is connected to the flashing via the fastener, and the bracket is sized to support at least one roof-mounted structure on the roof. A seal is positioned between the flashing aperture and the fastener. The seal is sized to form a water-tight seal with the aperture to inhibit flow of fluid through the aperture. The seal includes a first portion and a second portion, in which the first portion is positioned to abut the flashing first surface and the second portion is positioned to extend through the aperture. | 05-05-2022 |