Transparent Energy-Harvesting Devices

Abstract

A transparent luminescent solar concentrator is provided. The transparent luminescent solar concentrator has luminophores embedded within a waveguide matrix that both selectively absorb and emit near-infrared light to an edge mounted or embedded solar photovoltaic array.

Description

[0001] Related Application Cross Reference [0002] This application claims priority to US Patent Application No. 14 / 220,850, filed March 20, 2014. The full text of the above application is incorporated herein by reference. Background technique [0003] The present invention relates generally to solar collectors, and more particularly to transparent solar collectors for integrated solar windows. [0004] Integrating solar harvesting systems into the built environment is a transformative path to capture large area solar energy, reduce the cost of effective solar cell installation, and improve building efficiency. However, the difficulties associated with installing traditional solar modules on and around buildings based on cost, building impedance and most importantly aesthetics have seriously hindered the mass adoption of solar energy harvesting systems in building envelopes. [0005] The concept of luminescent solar collectors (LSCs) is well known, and with recent advances...

AI Technical Summary

Problems solved by technology

Factors that negatively affect the efficiency of LSC 100 include, low emitter photoluminescence (quantum yield), low solar spectral absorption efficiency, low waveguide (harvesting) efficiency, low solar cell efficiency, and low transport (reabsorption) efficiency

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