Design optimization of flat roof mounted solar panels: A full-scale study and geometric scaling challenges

Wind-tunnel tests were conducted on two different solar panel designs, optimized for flat roof mounting. In addition to a dual-tilted panel configuration (titled by 12.5°), a flat design (0° tilt) was investigated and optimized with respect to aerodynamic lift forces. To assess relatively small geometric details (e.g., spoilers, covers and ground clearance) tests were performed at full scale. In addition, selected configurations were also investigated at a reduced scale of 1:15, to assess possible scaling effects. Tests were conducted in low-turbulent approach flow conditions, resulting in turbulence intensities of < 1%. Results show that geometric additions such as spoilers, covers as well as reducing the ground clearance can effectively lower aerodynamic lift forces for both panel designs investigated, however, it was further observed that results depend strongly on the chosen geometric scaling factor.