Multifunctional Energy Management Building Cladding

Abstract

This invention relates to a building cladding for inclined surfaces such as for a sloped roof. More specifically, this invention relates to a building cladding that is passively responsive to sun elevation angles, is multi-functional, and is substantially uniformly ornamental when viewed from common viewing positions. The cladding is predominantly comprised of pairs of substantially horizontal and vertical surfaces extended horizontally and repeated vertically or along the incline of the building substrate. Substantially horizontal surfaces may be adapted for absorbing solar energy, reflecting solar energy, generating electricity from solar energy, converting solar energy into another form of energy, and or ornamentally matching substantially vertical surfaces.

1 . A molded or extruded roofing tile comprising at least a first set of surfaces generally oriented in the observer direction having desirable ornamental quality and emissivity and at least a second set of surfaces generally oriented in the sun direction having desirable solar radiation reflecting properties and emissivity. 
     
     
         2 . The roofing material in  claim 1  having at least one transverse notch or groove in an observer facing and sun facing surface pair. 
     
     
         3 . The roofing material in  claim 1  having an integral batten stop. 
     
     
         4 . The roofing material in  claim 1  having features to provide a weather resistant interface with adjacent roofing material units when assembled together as a roof.