The ETRC has designed four prototypes which illustrate a new level of
building integrated photovoltaics(BIPV), allowing BIPVs to interact with
the building in ways never previous explored. The construction of the
prototypes was made possible with the help of many generous sponsors such
as BP solar, True North, Sun Power and Diamondclad Power. The following is
a description of the prototypes.
Solar Awnings
The solar awnings prototype presents a design which transforms a common
building attribute (i.e. an awning) into an energy producing device,
without any adaptation to the bulding's prior structure. The solar awnings
elegantly serve a dual purpose, not only blocking the sun rays from
occupants, but harnessing solar energy for functional use. The
multi-functionality of our prototype allows more of the building's rooftop
space to be utilized.
Flexible Solar Roofing
The flexible solar roofing replaces normal roofing in all
aspects(waterproof, durable) while eliminating the need for additional
frames to house the solar panels. Our prototype allows to create an
urbeach (urban+beach), where residents coexist with renewable energy
devices to create an enjoyable, relaxing environment. The panels provide a
safe and accessible energy supply, facilitating the use of many 12V
appliances such as radios and fans from the rooftop and eliminating the
need for extension cords or batteries. This improved image of solar energy
increases its market value and attracts more consumers. We believe that
this is a necessary step, bringing renewable energy in Canada on a par
with that offered in other countries around the world.
Solar Outdoor Labspace
The solar outdoor labspace was found to meet several needs of the ETRC,
both for summer and winter climates. The prototype was found to provide an
enhanced working environment for the students of the ETRC, allowing them
to enjoy yhe beauty of Toronto's city scape, not to mention a sunny day,
while completing their projects. The labspace, capablt of holding two
students, eliminated the need for extension cords or batteries for
equipment while working on the rooftop. The solar outdoor labspace
additionally provides the ideal working environment for rooftop data
acquisition in a Canadian winter climate.
Solar Louvre
The solar louvre prototype allowed us to explore the field of solar
sculptures, pieces of art which effect emotion through aesthetics or
symbolism, but also through functionality. The telescoping bars within the
frame of the solar louvre allowed the angle of inclination of the panels
to be adjusted according to the time of year. This ensured that the angle
of incidence of the sun's rays hitting the panels was as close as possible
to 90 degrees. It seems only fitting that the solar louvre at the ETRC is
situated directly across from the entrance to the Art Gallery of
Ontario(AGO), one of Canada's largest art galleries.
