Using African trees for inspiration, Samuel Wilkinson has put forward a new design for solar panels.
The panels have two functionalities: provide shelter for passersby and harness the energy from the sun. So far the design has not begun, but the process will soon start with a Spanish company titled Urban Square.
The African trees are evident in this construction, as the wide canopy at the top of the structure stretches out just like the vegetation in certain areas of the great continent. It makes sense to design solar panels in this way: since the canopies are wide reaching, they harness the light perfectly, catching as many rays as possible to turn light into energy and gradually help to save the environment.
Photo Credits: designboom, samuelwilkinson
Tree-Inspired Solar Panels
Nature by Samuel Wilkinson Uses African Trees for Motivation
Trend Themes
1. Solar Shelter Panels - Designing solar panels with added functionality to provide shelter for passersby could create more efficient space usage and increase adoption of solar energy.
2. Nature-inspired Design - Drawing inspiration from nature, such as the wide canopies of African trees, can lead to new and innovative designs in a range of industries from architecture to renewable energy.
3. Multifunctional Products - Combining multiple functionalities in a product, such as the dual purpose of providing shelter and harnessing solar energy, can create new markets and disrupt traditional product categories.
Industry Implications
1. Renewable Energy - The solar panel industry can benefit from incorporating nature-inspired designs that increase efficiency and appeal to a wider range of consumers.
2. Architecture and Design - Integrating solar panels as part of architecture design can provide added benefits beyond energy savings, such as increasing public space usage.
3. Public Infrastructure - Using multifunctional solar panels as part of public infrastructure, such as bus stops or park structures, can provide additional benefits to the community while promoting sustainability.