Array-o-matic Free Solar PV Layout Tool ^Beta

Fast, easy PV system sizing and solar layouts using Google SketchUp and Google Earth.

Use this simple tool for PV system sizing and to create a preliminary solar layout on a sloped roof. Quick site analysis without complicated layout software.

Download Array-o-matic v1.11.skp
Updated December 17, 2011
Download SketchUp — free 3D modeling program. Required to use the Array-o-matic.
Sample output (PDF) — see what the tool can do
Give feedback — report bugs, suggest features
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“ I have been using SketchUp with some panel models I drew for a while now. Your solution is easy to use and better looking output for the customer. Well done.”

—Kevin Holme, President at RCC Solar

Instructions

The following tutorial assumes you have a basic familiarity with SketchUp and know how to use the Select and Move tools. You don't need to be an expert but if you're new to SketchUp, we recommend you check out these excellent video tutorials before you proceed.


To begin, right-click (context-click) the Array-o-matic component and select Dynamic Components then Component Options.	Select your module. The 100 top modules (per CSI) are pre-loaded so there's a 93% chance your module is already listed. Select Custom and enter the length and width if your module is not listed.	If you're modeling in 2D (faster), select your module orientation: portrait (vertical) or landscape (horizontal) and tilt angle (roof pitch).

In 3D mode, the module is kept full size. In 2D mode, the module is shortened to match a top view. If you have a 3D model of your house, set the mode to 3D and disregard the two 2D options.	Switch to the Guides scene tab for easier modelling. This will allow you to see roof geometry and obstructions in the following steps. You can switch back when you're done.	Select File > Geo-location > Add Location or click the Add Location icon to import an aerial image of your roof.

Align the axes as follows: Cut the Array-o-matic component, select the Axis Tool, click the 3 points indicated above, and Paste the Array-o-matic.	The Array-o-matic should now be aligned with the building axes like this.	To align the building with your screen, zoom out, right-click the red or green axis line and select Align View. Hint: you must click outside the image area.

Right-click the Guides scene tab and select Update. This will save your axes orientation.	Use the Scale Tool to stretch the Array-o-matic to the size of the roof.	Right-click the array and select Explode.

Use the Move tool to fine-tune the layout.	Click the Module frames scene tab to show the modules and hide the axes.	For best results when printing, resize your SketchUp window so your house is tightly cropped within the window. Download PDF of the output created in this tutorial.
	Bonus tip: If you're working with a 3D model of your house, use this technique to quickly orient the array to your roof face. Select Window > Components. Make sure you're looking at the In Model component list. Select Array-o-matic. As you move your cursor over the model, the component should orient or "glue" itself to any face you select.