Solar Wizard

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 Solar Planning and Design Tool Kit

This group of functions is selected from the Roof Wizard main menu and provides the operator with tools that are particularly useful for planning a roof job (the roof grid); calculating shadows and solar radiation (for solar heating and photo voltaic installations) and applying texture maps to the roof model for visualisation of the roof installation. It does assume a high level of competence in the modelling skills required to create the roof and wall geometry, previously described in this manual.

The Process

The foundation of the SolarWizard software process is based upon the creation of accurate roof geometry in Roof Wizard – ie the roof geometry must first be correctly modelled in 3D space. The model may be created using dimensional data from an architect’s blueprint, a field sketch, a scanned plan or an aerial image.

It is from this model of the roof that the roof areas and quantities are extracted, plus a simulation and calculation of solar radiation and shadows from roof features and other objects based on orientation to true North.  Clearly, if the roof modelling is not accurate, the whole process is compromised.

We have devised a simple four step process to ensure an easy, accurate outcome-

Define the roof geometry,
Check the roof geometry,
Select the location,
Select the locale radiation table,
Generate the shadows and solar radiation, and
Print client proposal.

It is a simple matter then of printing the necessary report using the template that you have defined. Standard report templates are provided so that you can make a start immediately. These may be edited at any time by you, to suit the needs of your business.

The usual starting point for a roof using this system is a basic hip and valley roof where the eave height is the same all the way around. From this just about any roof may be created by adding all the architectural features including dormers, atriums, gables, verandahs etc. (Specialised roof shapes such as a barrel vaulted roof, or simple flat or skillion roof are usually handled separately).

After the roof geometry has been created, the solar radiation and shadow map is generated. Other buildings, fixtures and fittings that impact on the shadows cast may be added.