Interlocking BIPV roof tile with backer
AssigneeTesla, Inc.
InventorsMartin Seery, Charles Bernardo Almy, Kathryn Austin Pesce
Life of this patent
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Abstract
Building integrated photovoltaic (BIPV) systems provide for solar panel arrays that can be aesthetically pleasing to an observer. BIPV systems can be incorporated as part of roof surfaces as built into the structure of the roof, particularly as photovoltaic modules having the appearance of a plurality of roofing tiles that each have photovoltaic cells. Each photovoltaic module may include a metal backer, photovoltaic cells, and light transmissive top sheets adhered to both the metal backer and the photovoltaic cells. BIPV systems can also include non-photovoltaic modules that appear similar to photovoltaic modules, but do not collect solar energy.
Claims9
A photovoltaic module, comprising:
- a light transmissive top sheet;
- a backer;
- a plurality of solar cells disposed between the top sheet and the backer;
- and
- a standoff comprising a plurality of flat upwardly-facing portions in direct contact with the backer and a plurality of flat downwardly-facing portions configured to contact a roof structure, wherein the plurality of flat downwardly-facing portions are vertically offset from the plurality of flat upwardly-facing portions.
Dependencies are inferred from the claim text.