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SOLAR DECATHLON V
4D Home11
TEAM MASSACHUSETTS
This free-standing superstructure—an external frame—supports solar panels, acting as an upgrade for new or existing homes.


Homeowners adding solar PV or thermal systems are often stymied when they discover that their home’s roof is not strong enough to support panels, or faces the wrong way for optimal performance. Plus, every roof penetration is an invitation to spring a leak.


Massachusetts College of Art and Design and University of Massachusetts at Lowell joined forces to become Team Massachusetts. The team developed a free-standing superstructure (they called it a trellis), which provides PV/thermal panel support—off set from the home structure—and shading for the home.


 


4D Home’s exoskeleton of reclaimed wood beams supports PV and hot water systems, and also shades the roof. This system could also solve problems on existing homes, such as poor solar orientation, leaks and inadequate roof structure to support PV.


TEAM: Team Massachusetts has 56 members, including Spencer Culhane, Architecture and Project Manager/Primary Student Contact. Team Web site: http://4dhome.us/team/

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