Otherlab II: Off the Grid II

In this week's second post about San Fransisco based research and development company Otherlab, we're taking a look at a product that uses a very simple and old invention to dramatically increase the function of solar panels. Using what is essentially an accordion hinge that is automated using pneumatic actuators, this increases the efficiency of a tracking solar panel while dramatically cutting down the maintenance requirements. By redesigning this system from the ground up, this company has made the maintenance of this highly efficient panel mount comparable to much simpler, yet less productive, fixed panel systems. This sort of innovation is highly necessary in a field as scrutinized and doubted as solar, and making products more accessible for consumers can only continue the advancement of the technology. As a student of architecture I look forward to a time when integrating renewable energy into a design is no longer a choice, but a responsibility.

http://www.sunfolding.com/