Our unique and patented colouring method allows for a complete ‘freedom of design’ in terms of sizes, patterns, colours and tailor-made graphics.
The final design will be transformed into a pattern of dots allowing sun-rays to penetrate to the photovoltaic layer, resulting in the optimum balance between energy yield and aesthetic quality.
What makes our colouring technology unique is the enormous flexibility in design and amount of colours available while having better power performance than other colouring technologies.
With our technique, hotspots will be avoided and because of the deposition of the colour behind the outer glass pane, it will not suffer from weather influences.
The colouring technology of Solar Visuals was extensively tested by TNO. All certifications and warranties are covered by AGC Glass.
The rasterisation process developed by Solar Visuals has four different patterns based on algorithms and each one of them has specific properties that connect to the selected solar cells and the visual quality of the façade. For all patterns it is possible to play with the coverage of the surface to achieve either the best performance or the best visual appearance.
Orthogonal pattern: optimised for medium range observations
Star Pattern: optimised for bright colours observed from a distance
Radial Pattern: optimised for close observation and detailed images
Mesh Pattern: Specially developed for homogenous colours
WEB pattern: Specially developed for a non-symmetrical natural look
Star pattern
In the three pictures of our Shell project above the effect of the Star patterns as seen from a distance is clearly visible. The strength of the patterning method is creating the effect of strong colour perception from a distance while the surface of the solar panel is only covered partially with ink.
Mesh patterning up close
Mesh pattern
For homogenous coloured modules, there is a wide range of colours to choose from or we can match your chosen colour. The mesh pattern can be made in lines or dots with different levels of surface coverage for optimising performance. Up close (left) the mesh will be visible, but in normal façade viewing distances, (right) the panels have a homogenous look.
Mesh patterning from a distance
Video of a WEB patterned panel for ProRail
- Glass at the rear
- A layer of photovoltaic material that generates energy
- A full-color graphic
- Glass in front
The measurements of the module will be according to your needs within a maximum of 2x4m.
Glass thickness is variable and starts with 2x4mm. For the outer glass pane, there are multiple options.
Most interesting is the matt version which increases the power of the module by +/- 3%
Mimicking wood, concrete, brick, stretched metal or stone - the Solar Visuals Collection offers a wide range of standardized patterns. These seamless and repetitive designs are extremely suitable for large scale application into facades of newly built and existing buildings, creating one powerful image from a viewing distance. The Solar Visuals Collection is divided into four subcategories: Architectural Materials, Nature, Art and Spot Colors (available in different RAL / PMS colors). For architects, designers and real estate owners who appreciate their freedom of design, we offer fully customizable solutions that suits any visual style. Making sure visual power and energy production are always optimized, the size, shape and material structure of the Solar Visuals panels can vary according to the customers wishes. From one-off panels to entire solar facades, from monochrome to abstract patterns or photographic prints - our printing possibilities are endless.
While standard PV modules on rooftops ara an addition to a building and therefore by definition contribute to a higher CO2 footprint, BIPV replaces a building element with an energy producing one.
The solar cells are packed between two glass panes, and will therefor have a very long life span compared with solar modules that usually have aplastic foil at the backside. Consequently, our modules are 100% PFAS free.
Our modules are composed with glass that has obtained a cradle-to-cradle certificate due to the fact that AGC produces its glass in Belgium as environmental friendly as possible with state-of-the-art production processes. Lamination of the products as well takes place in Belgium which helps to decrease the environmental impact even further. Excessive transportation from Asia to Europe is avoided and the products are being produced using the Belgian energy mix which is based on a relatively high percentage of renewable energy.
For all products EPD LCA documents can be made available.
Solar Visuals is involved in the development of next generation modules for higher ease of recycling. Follow us fro updates!
