PVcase Roof Mount is an AutoCAD add-in designed for the detailed design and optimization of commercial and industrial rooftop photovoltaic (PV) systems. It automates key tasks such as 3D building modeling, layout generation, shading analysis, and electrical design, consolidating the entire design process into a single platform. This reduces manual errors, accelerates project delivery, and ensures high precision in both mechanical and electrical aspects of rooftop solar installations. The tool is tailored to streamline workflows for solar engineers, enabling faster turnaround, better change management, and improved project outcomes for C&I solar projects.

Key Features

3D Building Preparation Allows users to model rooftops with obstacles and offset zones for accurate module placement.

• Define building geometry and roof obstructions
• Prepare roof zones for module installation

Automated Layout Generation Automatically places PV modules based on user-defined settings for various roof types.

• Supports flat, sloped, south, and east-west layouts
• Customizable module and layout parameters

Shading Analysis Calculates and visualizes shading impacts to optimize module placement and system performance.

• Identifies overshaded modules for removal
• Improves energy yield estimates

Electrical Design Automation Automates string placement, inverter sizing, and cable routing for efficient electrical layouts.

• Semi-automated and guided manual stringing options
• Accurate cable length and path calculations

Export and Integration Exports designs to PVsyst and Excel for further simulation and documentation.

• Facilitates collaboration and downstream analysis
• Supports bill of materials calculation and design comparison

Change Management Enables quick updates to designs in response to client requests or component changes.

• Centralizes workflow to avoid tool-switching
• Simplifies implementation of design modifications

Benefits

Significant Time Savings Reduces design time by up to 85% through automation and workflow integration.

• Enables parallel project delivery
• Minimizes manual, repetitive tasks

Improved Accuracy and Quality Advanced algorithms ensure precise mechanical and electrical layouts, reducing risk.

• Lowers potential for costly errors and rework
• Enhances proposal and project documentation accuracy

Streamlined Workflow Combines all design stages in one AutoCAD-based platform, eliminating the need for multiple tools.

• Reduces errors from data transfer between platforms
• Enhances efficiency and project scalability

Enhanced Flexibility and Adaptability Supports rapid design changes and scenario comparisons to meet evolving project requirements.

• Facilitates client-driven modifications
• Aids in adapting to market or supply chain changes