Mounting panels on building facade

[IronLiver]

I have been to look at a potential commercial project today with a good deal of space on the side of the building at various levels. My thoughts are that a significant installation could be accommodated over three storeys with custom mounts that place the panels at a suitable angle (to form a canopy that stands off the building). There is about 30m horizontal and 3m vertical space on each storey which could potentially suit two rows per storey. Does anyone have any experience with mounting systems in this manner? I would be interested in hearing about any existing solutions to this situation? We may look into to getting the mounts fabricated by a local firm.

The 3D interface of PVSol Expert does not appear to allow the placement of panels on the facade, anyone successfully worked this out or is it a fudge by adding extra buildings to the coverable objects??

Failing that I will have to run it through without the 3D, just means using other means to check my dimensions/spacings.

 

[SpitfireW'sale]

I will PM you Ironliver

 

[TedM]

Canopies? Are they likely to get planning permission for that?

For panels that are used as flat cladding on the outside of a large commercial building have a look at the CIS office block in the centre of Manchester.

 

[Earthstore]

Google "solar canopy", and go on to images.
This opens your eyes as to what is possible, here in the UK we have some catching up to do..

Hope this helps