Upon first seeing these beautifully-designed solar panels, I couldn’t help but imagine other applications and modifications for the green lifestyle–whether it be in the luxury home, a school yard, a country club or off-the-grid project.
Imagine these cobra-shaped shades as swiveling solar panels that take the place of outdoor umbrellas around the pool. Or as bus stop shelters or airport curbside check-in. The possibilities are endless and scalable.
And these VEIL Solar Shades or solar panels are interactive to boot. Indicators on the base show which positions will yield the maximum energy collection at given times of the day. And underneath the shade is an LED feedback system that indicates whether the shade is getting enough sunlight or not–and whether the shade should be turned.
Designed by the Australian design firm Büro North and the the Victorian Eco-Innovation Lab, the VEIL Solar Shades blend form and function elegantly.
Your ideas for implementation? I can imagine them poised around a pool at home!
Tip of the top hat to Josh Spear.
Definitely a brilliant and practical idea. Although the snak-shape is rather unpleasant 🙂
James,
I suppose these solar shades could be shaped like mushrooms or umbrellas, but the adjustable openness of the VEIL Solar Shades is rather pleasing.
Just couldn’t resist comparing them to cobras!
Thanks for the info. on solar shades. They are artsy and useful.
Aloha,
Keahi
Keahi:
We agree! I would personally like to see these solar shades planted throughout San Diego County parks and recreation areas:-)
They would make nice sunshades for Hawaii as well.
I didn’t even see the snakes until I read it in the article. I didn’t realize that solar panels were so versitle. With this industry becoming so “pretty” they are sure to get a lot more potential uses… now if we could only work on price.
Stephen,
The cobra resemblance is just fun humor. I find these solar shades to be really attractive–and if widely adopted, the price would surely come down.
Would love to see them in San Diego!