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Even if they have to pump energy into them to melt the snow, I'd still see it as a HUGE feature, and a big bonus to the solar roadway itself. They are not just
by higherpurpose 12y ago
Even if they have to pump energy into them to melt the snow, I'd still see it as a HUGE feature, and a big bonus to the solar roadway itself. They are not just "solar roadways". They are also "smart roadways". The changing of signs and whatnot is also a big feature, although I'm a little worried of hacking with that one.
- bronson 12y agoThere is no chance these are going to be more effective or cheaper than the dedicated roadway snowmelt systems that exist today. And, is there widespread adoption of roadway snowmelt systems? No. Why? Because the energy and maintenance required is simply immense. Even when you get energy for free (geothermal), it's rarely worth the cost and upkeep. It's a nice idea but the maths just don't work out.
- WalterBright 12y agoIf solar signs are what you want, just put up a leaderboard with a solar panel. Done.
- nkurz 12y agoOfftopic to 'higherpurpose': Your comments are visible, but it looks like your last several months of submissions have all been autokilled. Since they look reasonable (and the last one looks quite interesting) you might want to write to Dan at hn@ycombinator.com and see what's happening.