Smart Spine Ridge Cap

The Smart Spine is a modular, solar-fed, battery-stabilized ridge cap that converts your roofline into an efficient, off-grid energy backbone. Designed for direct integration with ShingleLink solar shingles or standard panels, each 4-foot section includes high-capacity 18650 lithium cells, integrated MPPT charge controllers, and modular fan trays. Built for both permanent installs and portable deployment, this is how the future powers itself.

Key Specs per 4' Segment

• ~1,385 18650 lithium cells
• Up to 18 kWh usable energy (cell dependent)
• 24V or 48V high-current output rail (8AWG)
• Integrated MPPT + Smart BMS
• Central 2" vent duct with removable fan trays
• Wire-free connection with neighboring spines via contact pads
• Optional Pi/ESP-based monitoring + OTA dashboard

Real-World Use Cases

• Roof-Mounted Energy Backbone: Convert existing rooflines into solar storage and distribution zones
• Camping & Disaster Relief: Drop a canvas-sleeve Smart Spine into a field and power a site for days
• Home Lighting & Off-Grid DC Power: Run LED lighting, fans, USB ports, routers, and more directly from the cap

Projected Costs

• Prototype build: ~$180–$240 (using reclaimed 18650s)
• Production units: Estimated $300–$450 per 4' segment
• Includes MPPT, BMS, fan modules, and 10P2S–13S config options

GitHub Project

All specs, roadmap, and source info is open and hosted on GitHub:
github.com/thegardenminer/shinglelink-spine