Challenge

Our goal was to draft the complete set of drawings for a residential solar panel installation to submit it for permit approval. These drawings had to include the property site plan and the solar and electrical design of the system to be installed.

Strategy

To draft the property site map, we used Geolocations, an Autocad plugin that integrates with Google. Also, we imported the roof plan from Aurora, a solar design software, and validate the lines with the google satellite map.

Approach

Our team of architects and engineers used Aurora to acquire all the technical information such as solar panels data, electrical data, and roof measurements. Then, we use SOL CAD PV, an AutoCAD plugin to draft the solar panel array, insert clamps and railings, draw structural rafters as per Aurora’s information.

The Process

We follow a structured end-to-end process that ensures the best results for our clients.

Field Solar Surveying

Our client sends engineers to inspect the site where the project will take place and retrieve data such as photos, addresses, coordinates, roof measurements, and electrical installations. Our electrical engineers use the gathered data and Aurora to design the residence solar system. This design will determine the number of solar panels to be install and the system capacity.

Solar System Design (Aurora)

After retrieving the information gathered from the field surveying, the technicians will use Aurora to design the system capacity. The site’s roof shape and dimensions will be verified with the field measured data to provide the most accurate design parameters and technical drawings.

Solar System CAD Drawings

After the solar design team finishes designing the system, they will assign the drawings drafting process to one of our CAD drafters. The CAD drafters will use the previous design performed in Aurora and add the remaining information such as roof layout, profile view, mounting details, and section details to the drawing set. The electrical design is provided to the drafters as well for them to add it to drawings. The final drawing set includes the panels, rails, structural details, and the electrical and structural calculations.

Final Review, Signing, and Approval

Finally, the systems drawing set goes through a revision process by our project manager to ensure that all information is correct and complies with the local regulations. Once approved, our client submitted the drawings to the local authorities for stamping and approval. In case the authorities point out any correction to be made, our team of drafters will take care and resubmit the work.

Gallery

Dive into our project most iconic photos.