Solar Array Consulting Project

An architect consulting company which specializes in utilizing biomimicry design to overcome construction challenges. Biomimicry is the use of studying nature, in order to adapt the forms to help aid an engineered solution. The design challenge posed to this client was to design a solar array which can extend the surface area of a roof while maintaining an aesthetic appeal. The muse to this problem in my instance was the leaf, which is held in place from a stem or branch and broadens the field of surface absorption of sunlight despite being tethered to the central location of its central trunk or stem. The leaf also has the ability to maneuver and tilt to maintain an optimal angle towards the sun through minimal movement from the central base location.

Brainstorming ways to hold the long blade portion of the solar panel upright yet allow actuated movement.

The shape of the solar panel allowed for beautiful intricate patterns which can extend past the reach of the roof structure, while providing a sense of canopy and natural beauty from the familiar design.

I had designed the solar array actuated joist system in Autodesk inventor to analyze the limits of design loads to have the ability to hold the light polyurethane solar panel firmly even in the event of wind and snow.