The solar car shade calculator designs a preliminary shade for the number of parking spaces you want: you choose the shape of the shade, the number of parking spaces, its dimensions and the type of roof, and it calculates the dimensions of the shade, the number of spans and columns and their height, the bridges, the purlins and concrete bases, and if the roof is solar panels, it calculates the number of panels, their capacity and their approximate annual production in your city, along with the total weight of iron.
- Three forms: a central column (T) for two rows of parking spaces, a cantilever with a column on one side, and two columns (a frame).
- The roof is either solar panels that produce electricity, or sheet metal for shade only.
- The columns and beams are always made of galvanized iron, and aluminum is an option for the purlins only.
- The final rules and sections are adopted after soil testing and wind calculations on site.
Why calculate the price of an umbrella before you order it?
A parking canopy is a decision that combines three aspects into one project: structural (columns and foundations), electrical (panels, transformer, and connections), and operational (vehicle traffic and net height). The calculator gives you a preliminary picture of all this: how much area will be shaded, how many columns will be in the parking area, and how much electricity you expect from the roof. Based on this, you can decide whether a T-shaped canopy in the center of the parking area or a cantilevered canopy against the wall is more suitable.
First step: Umbrella shape
| Shape | Description | Suitable |
|---|---|---|
| Central column (T) | Two rows of parking spaces under one umbrella | large companies and positions |
| Capulet (a column on one side) | Single row without front pillars | Homes and mosques, easy access |
| Two columns (frame) | Columns on both sides, less iron. | open spaces |
The three designs are available as factory products: T umbrella وKabuli umbrella وTwo-post canopy.
Step Two: Positions
- Number of positions.
- Net height: The distance from the ground to the bottom of the bridges. The default is 2.7 m, raise it if there are tall cars or minibuses.
- Presenting the situation and its depth: The default size is 2.5 x 5 m, which is a common size for private parking spaces.
Step three: The roof, the material, and the system
- Roof covering: Solar panels or sheet metal for shade only.
- Tablet and city capacity: To calculate capacity and annual production.
- Material of the purlins: Hot-dip galvanized iron or aluminum.
- Wind zone: Ordinary or strong and coastal.
- The energy system includes: Remove the checkmark if you have the panels available and only want the frame.
- The structure and rules include: Excavation and pouring of foundations and installation of the structure.
Illustrative example: T-shaped canopy for ten parking spaces in Riyadh
This is a hypothetical example in the calculator; the numbers are approximate:
- Central column (T), 10 parking spaces measuring 2.5 x 5 m, net height 2.7 m.
- 645W solar panel roof, Riyadh, galvanized iron purlins, normal wind.
Result
| Item | Value |
|---|---|
| Umbrella dimensions | 12.5 x 11.0 m, two rows of parking spaces |
| shaded area | Approximately 138 m² |
| Number of meters and columns | 3 spans (each 5.0 m) and 4 columns with a height of 3.05 m |
| columns | HEA 200 |
| Load-bearing bridges | IPE 220 with a length of 11.0 m |
| Purses | C 150 × 65 × 2.5, 9 pieces, 12.5 m long |
| panels | 36 panels (4 x 9), 23.2 kW peak capacity |
| Approximate annual production | 40,635 kWh |
| Rules | 4 reinforced concrete foundations with a total volume of approximately 10.8 m³, with M24 bolt kits |
| weight of iron | Approximately 2,518 kg |
What can we learn from these figures?
- Only 4 columns for 10 parking spaces: Because the T-shaped design carries two rows on a single line of columns in the middle, this facilitates the movement of cars.
- The rules are relatively large: Because a single column supports a large part of the roof and resists winds from both sides.
- Production: The parking ceiling here is equivalent to a medium-sized system, and can be connected to the adjacent building or to the electricity grid according to the requirements.
How do you choose between the three shapes using a calculator?
Try the same number of situations with the three shapes and compare:
- Weight of iron: The two columns are usually the lower, and the cantilever is higher because the column carries a full projection on one side.
- Number of columns and their location: Does it obstruct the opening of doors or the movement of people into the room?
- Available space: A T-shaped umbrella requires two facing rows, and a cantilever umbrella is suitable for positions adjacent to a wall.
For a general overview of the benefits and production of umbrellas, read the article Solar carports: shade and electricity.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I calculate the cost of an umbrella without solar panels?
Yes, choose a sheet metal roof for shade only, and the calculator will calculate the structure and roof without a power system.
Is a net height of 2.7 meters sufficient?
This is usually sufficient for private cars. If you have SUVs with roof racks or minibuses, increase the calculation.
Why isn't the column made of aluminum?
The columns and beams support the roof and resist the wind, so they remain made of galvanized iron, and aluminum is an option for the purlins only.
Is annual production guaranteed?
This is an estimate based on the average radiation in the city. Actual output is affected by dust, heat, orientation, and surrounding shadows.
Are you planning a parking canopy? MITS GROUP manufactures carports in T, cantilever and two-column designs from hot-dip galvanized steel, with or without panel system and converter, and arranges a site visit before the final design.
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