Case studies
MES

Solar Infra Solar Module Design Using SolidWorks Simulation

Case study showing how Solar Infra used SolidWorks 3D CAD and Simulation to develop rugged solar modules for extreme environments.

Published
June 4, 2026
Read time
3 min read
Source

Solar Infra partnered with Sandia National Laboratories to design the ACE solar module capable of withstanding hurricane winds, heavy snow loads, and high temperatures. The team used integrated SolidWorks CAD and FEA tools to iterate designs, validate structural and thermal performance, and incorporate a microinverter directly into the module. This approach doubled frame strength, cut manufacturing costs by 25 percent, and saved $100,000 in prototype expenses.

Key takeaways

Integrated CAD-FEA workflow accelerated design validation for extreme environment loads

Module frame strength doubled while adding only 4 percent weight

Microinverter integration extended inverter lifecycle from 10 to 25 years

Virtual simulation replaced physical prototypes, saving $100,000 in development costs

Manufacturing operating expenses reduced by 25 percent through optimized design

Market overview

SCR methodology note

Vendor landscape

Leaders

Implementation considerations

Important consideration