Photovoltaic photo-thermal coupling system with paper folding bionic configuration and control method of photovoltaic photo-thermal coupling system

Abstract

The invention provides a photovoltaic photo-thermal coupling system with a paper folding bionic configuration and a control method thereof, the photovoltaic photo-thermal coupling system comprises a semitransparent photovoltaic cell layer, a paper folding bionic support frame and a control and feedback system, the paper folding bionic support frame is of a paper folding structure, and the amount of light reaching a photo-thermal reflector is adjusted through folding and unfolding; the adjusting driving unit is connected with the paper folding bionic supporting frame and used for driving the paper folding bionic supporting frame to be folded or unfolded. The photo-thermal reflecting mirror is positioned below the transparent photovoltaic cell layer and is used for focusing the long-wavelength light to the photo-thermal heat collector; the control and feedback system is connected with the adjusting driving unit and used for adjusting photovoltaic and photo-thermal energy distribution in real time. The transparency of the photovoltaic layer is adjusted through the paper folding bionic structure, and the unfolding state of the photovoltaic layer can be automatically adjusted according to the external illumination intensity so as to optimize photovoltaic and photo-thermal energy distribution; the control and feedback system can adjust the proportion of photovoltaic power generation and photo-thermal power generation according to environmental changes, and high-efficiency operation of the system is ensured.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to the technical field of photovoltaic and thermal power generation equipment, and in particular to an origami-like photovoltaic and thermal coupling system and a control method thereof. Background Art

[0002] Photovoltaic and solar thermal power generation each have their own advantages, but traditional photovoltaic and solar thermal systems often cannot be efficiently integrated, resulting in wasted land resources, duplication of investment, and inefficient energy utilization. In recent years, photovoltaic-solar thermal power generation systems have gradually attracted attention. They aim to achieve efficient and full-band utilization of solar energy through structural integration and spectral separation.

[0003] Existing photovoltaic thermal systems typically use fixed, semi-transparent photovoltaic modules, whose transmittance is difficult to dynamically adjust according to lighting conditions. This results in poor adaptability of the overall system, limiting its operational efficiency and intelligence. Therefore, there is an urgent need for a photovoltaic-thermal collaborative power generation system with flexible adjustment capabilities that can intelligently dispatch energy based on environmental changes. Summary of the Invention

[0004] The present invention aims to provide an origami-inspired photovoltaic-thermal coupling system and its control method. This system combines a semi-transparent photovoltaic cell layer with a thermal reflector and dynamically adjusts light transmittance through the origami-inspired structure's adjustment mechanism. The system automatically adjusts the energy distribution between photovoltaic and thermal systems based on factors such as ambient light intensity and temperature, improving its overall efficiency and adaptability.

[0005] According to the purpose of the present invention, the present invention provides a photovoltaic-thermal coupling system with an origami bionic configuration, comprising a semi-transparent photovoltaic cell layer, an origami bionic support frame, an adjustment drive unit, a photothermal reflector, a photothermal collector and a control and feedback system, wherein the semi-transparent photovoltaic cell layer is connected to the origami bionic support frame, the origami bionic support frame is an origami structure and adjusts the amount of light reaching the photothermal reflector by folding and unfolding; the adjustment drive unit is connected to the origami bionic support frame, and is used to drive the origami bionic support frame to fold or unfold; the photothermal reflector is located below the transparent photovoltaic cell layer, and the photothermal reflector is used for long-wavelength light and focuses it onto the photothermal collector; the control and feedback system is connected to the adjustment drive unit, and is used to adjust the energy distribution between photovoltaic and photothermal in real time.

[0006] Furthermore, the semi-transparent photovoltaic cell layer adopts flexible perovskite photovoltaic cells, CIGS or amorphous silicon materials, and has a light transmittance greater than 20%.

[0007] Furthermore, the origami bionic support frame is made of polyimide, PEN or metal sheet material.

[0008] Furthermore, the adjustment drive unit includes a stepping motor, a shape memory alloy or a thermal response material, and can automatically adjust the unfolding state of the photovoltaic layer according to the ambient light and temperature.

[0009] Furthermore, the adjustment drive unit includes an active adjustment mode and a passive adjustment mode.

[0010] Furthermore, the active adjustment method includes a stepper motor crank slider structure method, a shape memory alloy drive method and an electroactive polymer drive method.

[0011] Furthermore, the passive regulation method includes a thermoresponsive material driving method and a photoresponsive polymer driving method.

[0012] Furthermore, the origami bionic support frame adopts one of a Miura origami structure, a blade rotation structure, a serpentine folding structure, a module storage structure or a tower stacking structure.

[0013] According to another object of the present invention, the present invention provides a control method for the photovoltaic-thermal coupling system of the origami bionic configuration, comprising the following steps:

[0014] S1, short wavelength light is absorbed by the semi-transparent photovoltaic cell layer, and long wavelength light passes through the semi-transparent photovoltaic cell layer and is reflected by the photothermal reflector to the photothermal collector, which is used for photovoltaic power generation and photothermal power generation respectively;

[0015] S2. By adjusting the origami structure of the origami bionic support frame, the transmittance of the photovoltaic layer is changed to achieve energy distribution control between photovoltaic and photothermal energy.

[0016] Furthermore, by adjusting the folding degree of the origami bionic support frame, the effective shading area of the semi-transparent photovoltaic cell layer can be controlled; when the light is strong, the photovoltaic cell units are appropriately contracted, the gap is increased, the transparency is improved, and the photothermal energy is enhanced; when the light is weak, the photovoltaic layer is unfolded to increase the shading rate and enhance the photovoltaic power output; the control system automatically decides the adjustment strategy based on light intensity, temperature, and load status information.

[0017] The technical solution of the present invention adjusts the transparency of the photovoltaic layer through the origami bionic structure, and can automatically adjust the unfolding state of the photovoltaic layer according to the external light intensity to optimize the energy distribution between photovoltaic and solar thermal; the control and feedback system can adjust the ratio of photovoltaic and solar thermal power generation according to environmental changes to ensure efficient operation of the system. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0018] In order to more clearly illustrate the specific embodiments of the present invention or the technical solutions in the prior art, the following briefly introduces the drawings required for use in the specific embodiments or the description of the prior art. Obviously, the drawings described below are some embodiments of the present invention. For ordinary technicians in this field, other drawings can be obtained based on these drawings without paying any creative work.

[0019] Figure 1 This is a cross-sectional view of a photovoltaic layer, a semi-transparent photovoltaic cell layer, an origami bionic support frame, and a photothermal reflector according to an embodiment of the present invention;

[0020] Figure 2 Another cross-sectional view of the photovoltaic layer semi-transparent photovoltaic cell layer, the origami bionic support frame and the photothermal reflector according to an embodiment of the present invention;

[0021] Figure 3 A cross-sectional view of a third structure of a semi-transparent photovoltaic cell layer, an origami bionic support frame, and a photothermal reflector according to an embodiment of the present invention;

[0022] Figure 4 A cross-sectional view of a fourth structure of a semi-transparent photovoltaic cell layer, an origami bionic support frame, and a photothermal reflector according to an embodiment of the present invention;

[0023] Figure 5 A cross-sectional view of a semi-transparent photovoltaic cell layer and an origami bionic support frame according to an embodiment of the present invention;

[0024] Figure 6 Another cross-sectional view of the semi-transparent photovoltaic cell layer and the origami bionic support frame according to an embodiment of the present invention;

[0025] Figure 7 A schematic diagram of an origami structure of a semi-transparent photovoltaic cell layer and an origami bionic support frame according to an embodiment of the present invention;

[0026] Figure 8 Schematic diagram of another origami structure of a semi-transparent photovoltaic cell layer and an origami bionic support frame according to an embodiment of the present invention;

[0027] Figure 9 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of the photovoltaic module gap control according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0028] In the picture: 1. Semi-transparent photovoltaic cell layer; 2. Origami bionic support frame; 3. Photothermal reflector. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0029] The following will clearly and completely describe the technical solutions of the present invention in conjunction with the embodiments. Obviously, the embodiments described are only some embodiments of the present invention, not all embodiments. Based on the embodiments of the present invention, all other embodiments obtained by ordinary technicians in this field without making creative efforts are within the scope of protection of the present invention.

[0030] In the description of the present invention, it should be understood that the terms "center", "longitudinal", "lateral", "length", "width", "thickness", "up", "down", "front", "back", "left", "right", "vertical", "horizontal", "top", "bottom", "inside", "outside", "clockwise", "counterclockwise" and the like to indicate directions or positional relationships based on the directions or positional relationships shown in the accompanying drawings, and are only for the convenience of describing the present invention and simplifying the description, and do not indicate or imply that the device or element referred to must have a specific direction, be constructed and operate in a specific direction, and therefore should not be understood as limiting the present invention.

[0031] In addition, the terms "first" and "second" are used for descriptive purposes only and should not be understood as indicating or implying relative importance or implicitly indicating the number of the indicated technical features. Therefore, the features defined as "first" and "second" may explicitly or implicitly include one or more of the said features. In the description of the present invention, "multiple" means two or more, unless otherwise clearly and specifically defined. In addition, the terms "installed", "connected", and "connected" should be understood in a broad sense. For example, it can be a fixed connection, a detachable connection, or an integral connection; it can be a mechanical connection or an electrical connection; it can be a direct connection, or it can be an indirect connection through an intermediate medium, or it can be a communication between the two elements. For those of ordinary skill in the art, the specific meanings of the above terms in the present invention can be understood according to the specific circumstances.

[0032] Example 1

[0033] like Figures 1-9 As shown:

[0034] A photovoltaic-thermal coupling system with an origami-inspired configuration includes a semi-transparent photovoltaic cell layer 1, an origami-inspired bionic support frame 2, an adjustment drive unit, a photothermal reflector 3, a photothermal collector, and a control and feedback system, wherein:

[0035] The semi-transparent photovoltaic cell layer 1 is connected to an origami-inspired support frame 2. The origami-inspired support frame 2 is an origami structure, such as a Miura origami, that can adjust the light transmittance of the photovoltaic layer by folding and unfolding. The semi-transparent photovoltaic cell layer 1 is made of flexible perovskite photovoltaic cells, CIGS, or amorphous silicon materials, and has a light transmittance greater than 20%, used for photovoltaic power generation.

[0036] The origami bionic support frame 2 is made of polyimide, PEN, or thin metal sheets (such as aluminum foil) and features elastic supports that can withstand loads during folding and unfolding. The expansion and contraction of the origami bionic support frame is driven by an adjustable drive unit, such as a stepper motor or SMA drive, enabling modular integration and high-precision adjustment.

[0037] The adjustment drive unit adopts a stepper motor, shape memory alloy (SMA) or thermal response material, which can automatically adjust the expansion state of the photovoltaic layer according to the ambient light and temperature.

[0038] The solar thermal reflector 3 is located below the semi-transparent photovoltaic cell layer 1 and the origami bionic support frame 2. It is a parabolic reflector with a highly reflective aluminum alloy or silver-coated glass surface. It is used to reflect long-wavelength light above 750nm and focus it onto the solar thermal collector.

[0039] The solar thermal reflector 3 is connected to the collector using a trough or tower concentrating system. The solar thermal collector is a tubular thermal oil receiver or molten salt receiver that absorbs the long-wavelength light reflected by the solar thermal reflector and converts it into thermal energy. The solar thermal collector absorbs heat through the tubular thermal oil or molten salt receiver and converts the heat into electricity through a thermoelectric converter.

[0040] The control and feedback system, which includes a light sensor, temperature sensor, electric driver, and photovoltaic cell monitoring circuit, adjusts the energy distribution between photovoltaic and solar thermal systems in real time based on signals such as light, temperature, and load. The system also features AI-based algorithms for predicting sunlight intensity and enabling intelligent scheduling.

[0041] The working principle of the present invention is as follows:

[0042] Short wavelength light is absorbed by the semi-transparent photovoltaic cell layer, and long wavelength light passes through the semi-transparent photovoltaic cell layer 1 and is reflected by the photothermal reflector 3 to the photothermal collector, which is used for photovoltaic power generation and photothermal power generation respectively;

[0043] By adjusting the origami structure of the origami bionic support frame 2, the transmittance of the photovoltaic layer is changed, and the energy distribution control between photovoltaic and photothermal is achieved.

[0044] The transparency of the photovoltaic layer automatically adjusts based on external light intensity. In strong sunlight, the gap increases to enhance solar thermal power generation, while in weak light, the layer contracts to increase photovoltaic power generation. The system can be flexibly arranged and adjusted to meet diverse environmental requirements, adapting to a variety of scenarios, including complex environments such as deserts, plateaus, and rooftops.

[0045] The present invention can significantly improve the efficiency and adaptability of solar power generation in terms of synergistic photovoltaic and solar thermal power generation, dynamic adjustment of spectral distribution, intelligent energy distribution and flexible structural adjustment mechanism, and has broad application potential in various application scenarios.

[0046] Example 2

[0047] The structure of this embodiment is basically the same as that of the first embodiment, except that this embodiment is an origami-inspired photovoltaic-thermal coupling system with a more sophisticated structure, including:

[0048] A translucent photovoltaic cell layer 1 is arranged above the photothermal reflector and is connected to an origami bionic support frame 2. The shape and configuration of the translucent photovoltaic cell layer 1 can be dynamically adjusted through mechanical or material response through the bionic origami structure design of the origami bionic support frame 2, thereby achieving regulation of its overall light transmittance.

[0049] The adjustable light-transmitting structure composed of the semi-transparent photovoltaic cell layer 1 and the origami bionic support frame 2 can actively change the light flux entering the photothermal reflector according to the different requirements of solar radiation intensity, angle or operation strategy, thereby achieving optimized management of the system's light energy distribution.

[0050] During system operation, incident sunlight first passes through the upper semi-transparent photovoltaic cell layer. The semi-transparent photovoltaic cell layer has a strong absorption capacity for short-wavelength light (such as ultraviolet and visible light), which can be converted into electrical energy for photovoltaic power generation. However, it maintains a high transmittance for long-wavelength light (mainly near-infrared and part of the mid-infrared range), allowing it to pass through the semi-transparent photovoltaic cell layer and then be emitted to the photothermal reflector below. The photothermal reflector reflects the long-wavelength light and focuses it onto the subsequent photothermal collector to drive the photothermal power generation process. Through this band division of labor and energy guidance strategy, efficient spectrum separation and multi-energy coordinated utilization are achieved.

[0051] Furthermore, the adjustable light transmission structure of the origami structure in this embodiment not only enhances the system's adaptability to changes in the external environment but also allows for intelligent adjustments in different operating scenarios. For example, it increases light transmittance in low-light conditions to enhance solar thermal output, while increasing absorption under high-intensity conditions to enhance photovoltaic power generation efficiency, thereby maximizing the system's overall energy efficiency and power generation revenue. This structure also offers excellent flexibility and scalability, making it suitable for a variety of solar thermal system configurations, including trough and tower systems, and has broad engineering application prospects.

[0052] The specific structure of the photovoltaic-thermal coupling system of the origami bionic configuration of this embodiment is described as follows:

[0053] The photovoltaic-thermal coupling system of the origami-inspired configuration of this embodiment includes a semi-transparent photovoltaic cell layer, an origami-inspired support frame, an adjustment drive unit, a photothermal reflector, a photothermal collector, and a control and feedback system. The connection relationship between the components is as follows:

[0054] The semi-transparent photovoltaic cell layer 1 is mounted on an origami bionic support frame 2, and the origami bionic support frame 2 is mechanically connected to the adjustment drive unit;

[0055] The origami bionic support frame 2 is fixed above the photothermal reflector 3, and is suspended in the air to cover the entire surface of the photothermal reflector;

[0056] The photothermal reflector 3 is connected to the photothermal collector, and the light reflected by the photothermal reflector is focused on the photothermal collector;

[0057] The control and feedback system includes a light sensor, a temperature sensor, an electric driver and a photovoltaic cell monitoring circuit. The control and feedback system realizes dynamic adjustment and energy efficiency optimization of the system through the cooperation of the light sensor, the electric driver, the photovoltaic cell monitoring circuit and the temperature sensor.

[0058] Specifically, the specific structure of each component is described as follows:

[0059] 1. For the semi-transparent photovoltaic cell layer located on the top layer, it uses flexible perovskite photovoltaic cells, or semi-transparent cells based on CIGS or amorphous silicon; it has a transmittance of >20% for light waves above 750nm and has good absorption capacity for visible light; the thickness is 200-800nm, ensuring photovoltaic efficiency while taking into account light transmission performance.

[0060] 2. The origami bionic support frame is connected to the translucent photovoltaic cell layer and is made of polyimide, PEN, or metal sheet (such as aluminum foil) + elastic bracket. The origami structure of the origami bionic support structure imitates the origami "mountain-valley fold" structure design and can be stacked, folded, and unfolded. By adjusting the folding angle through deformation, the spacing and overlap rate between photovoltaic cells can be controlled, thereby dynamically adjusting the overall light transmittance.

[0061] The origami bionic structure of the origami bionic support frame can also adopt other paper structures, such as Miura folding structure, blade rotation structure, serpentine folding structure, module storage structure and tower stacking structure. The characteristics of various structures are compared in Table 1:

[0062] Table 1 Comparison of the adjustment suitability of various origami structures

[0063]

[0064] For option 1: Miura folding structure

[0065] Structural principle: Derived from the "Miura-ori" pattern of traditional origami, it has a single-degree-of-freedom unfolding property. The flexible photovoltaic modules of the semi-transparent photovoltaic cell layer are attached to the triangular faces of the folded surface, forming a continuous plane when unfolded, and wrinkling the structure when folded, forming a controllable gap.

[0066] It can be quickly unfolded / folded with strong stability; the folding ratio and folding angle can accurately control the light transmittance;

[0067] The driving method is to control the pull wire or slide rail through the motor; the shape memory alloy wire controls the angle transformation.

[0068] For option 2: blade rotation structure (fan-shaped wings)

[0069] Structural principle: The translucent photovoltaic cell layer adopts the form of curved blades. Multiple flexible photovoltaic units are arranged as curved blades, and the angle is adjusted by axis rotation. Adjacent units rotate and open to form a "fan-shaped gap" to adjust the transparency.

[0070] The structure is flexible and visually beautiful; each unit can rotate independently with high precision; it can be folded and stored in the unfolded state, which is suitable for structures with limited space.

[0071] The drive mode is through a rotary servo motor and a precision gear set; the angle adjustment (such as 0° to 90°) can be achieved through programmable control.

[0072] For option three: serpentine folding structure (Z-shaped wave type)

[0073] Structural principle: Each flexible photovoltaic module of the semi-transparent photovoltaic cell layer is connected by a soft hinge to form an "S-shaped" fold;

[0074] When unfolded, it forms a flat surface, and when folded, it rolls up piece by piece to form a wave shape, and the gap becomes larger; the gap can be controlled in the length direction of a single piece; it is suitable for flexible thin-film photovoltaics (such as flexible perovskite); the folding ratio is adjustable, and the dimming continuity is good.

[0075] The drive mode is through a retractable reel, a motor traction belt or a linear drive; or a bimetallic temperature-sensing drive is used to achieve sunlight-adaptive curling.

[0076] For Option 4: Modular Storage Structure (Blind Origami Structure)

[0077] Structural principle: The semi-transparent photovoltaic cell layer uses several photovoltaic modules, which are arranged in parallel like shutters. Each photovoltaic module is fixed with a rotating axis and can be rotated along the axis. The amount of sunlight passing through is controlled by changing the ratio of blocking and gaps.

[0078] High precision of light transmittance adjustment (angle type); suitable for large-area flat installation; similar to the architectural adjustable sunshade system, with high maturity.

[0079] The driving method is to control the angle (such as 30°, 60°, 90°) through a micro rotary servo motor; multiple blades are controlled synchronously or adjusted independently one by one.

[0080] For Option 5: Tower-type stacked structure (petal-type unfolding structure)

[0081] Structural principle: The photovoltaic modules of the translucent photovoltaic cell layer are arranged in multiple layers in a radial pattern, like a "flower" shape; when unfolded, the layers are pulled apart, the overlapping parts gradually become thinner, and the transparency increases; when folded, they overlap to form a thicker photovoltaic layer to block most of the light.

[0082] Applicable to the top of a small mirror tower or the center of a concentrator; suitable for point-shaped strong radiation areas.

[0083] The driving method is to stretch and unfold by driving the central axis; the layered ropes drive the unfolding, and the reset is achieved by combining the spring recovery. The central axis rotates to drive the ropes on each layer of photovoltaic modules to drive the photovoltaic modules to unfold. At the same time, the photovoltaic modules are connected by springs. The springs give each layer of photovoltaic modules the force to restore overlap. When the central axis rotates in the opposite direction, the photovoltaic modules return to the folded state under the action of the springs.

[0084] There are many combinations of components and materials in this embodiment, as shown in Table 2:

[0085] Table 2 Comparison of various combinations between components and materials

[0086]

[0087] This embodiment provides three combination solutions. The description of each combination solution is as follows:

[0088] Combination method 1:

[0089] Miura origami structure + stepper motor adjustment + flexible perovskite photovoltaic layer

[0090] This combination is suitable for medium and large trough-type reflectors, achieving modular plug-in and high control precision.

[0091] Combination method 2:

[0092] Serpentine structure + SMA automatic drive + thermal response adjustment strategy

[0093] This combination is suitable for scenes with large temperature differences in deserts / plateaus, and can achieve passive adaptive adjustment.

[0094] Combination method three:

[0095] Origami blinds + central control system angle control + AI prediction of sunlight intensity adjustment

[0096] This combination is suitable for multi-mirror array systems and has high energy-efficient scheduling capabilities.

[0097] 3. Adjustable drive unit, with three types of drive: electric drive, passive / thermal response and light-controlled drive, among which:

[0098] The electric drive method uses shape memory alloy (SMA) or micro stepper motor to realize the opening and closing of the origami structure;

[0099] Passive / thermoresponsive driving methods use thermodeformable materials or liquid crystal polymers that adapt to temperature changes.

[0100] The light-controlled driving method introduces a photoresponsive polymer film, which automatically expands or closes according to the intensity of the incident light.

[0101] 4. Photothermal reflector

[0102] In this embodiment, the type of photothermal reflector is a parabolic reflector in a trough or tower concentrating system; its material is a high-reflectivity aluminum alloy mirror or a silver-coated glass mirror; it can reflect infrared light with a wavelength >750nm and concentrate it to the photothermal collector at the focus.

[0103] 5. Solar thermal collector

[0104] In this embodiment, the type of the photothermal collector may be a tubular thermal oil receiver or a molten salt receiver; it can absorb infrared photothermal energy, heat the working medium, and drive thermoelectric conversion.

[0105] When the system of the present invention is in use, the control method thereof comprises the following steps:

[0106] S1. Spectral separation and energy coupling:

[0107] The incident sunlight first contacts the semi-transparent photovoltaic cell layer, where short-wavelength light (e.g., 300-750nm) is absorbed and used for photovoltaic power generation. Long-wavelength light (750-2500nm) passes through the photovoltaic cell and is reflected by the solar thermal reflector and converges onto the solar thermal collector to achieve solar thermal power generation.

[0108] S2. Transparency adjustment and energy distribution control:

[0109] By adjusting the degree of folding (i.e., the overlap ratio) of the origami bionic support frame, the effective shielding area of the semi-transparent photovoltaic cell layer is controlled. When the light intensity is strong, the photovoltaic cell units are appropriately contracted to increase the gap, improve transparency, and enhance the photothermal energy. When the light intensity is weak, the photovoltaic layer is expanded to increase the shading rate and enhance the photovoltaic power output. The control system automatically determines the adjustment strategy based on information such as light intensity, temperature, and load status.

[0110] S3, feedback regulation system:

[0111] Set up a light sensor (to measure the intensity and angle of direct sunlight) and a temperature sensor (to measure the temperature of the photothermal collector); feed the sensor information back to the central controller to control the opening and closing state of the origami bionic support frame to achieve closed-loop regulation.

[0112] In the above control strategy, there are multiple ways to adjust the transparency of the semi-transparent photovoltaic cell layer, as shown in Table 3:

[0113] Table 3 Comparison of transparency adjustment methods

[0114]

[0115] The key to adjusting the transparency of the semi-transparent photovoltaic cell layer in the present invention lies in: by adjusting the shading ratio or superposition angle between the photovoltaic units of the semi-transparent photovoltaic cell layer, the amount of sunlight that passes through the semi-transparent photovoltaic cell layer and enters the photothermal reflector is controlled, thereby achieving energy coordination between photovoltaic and photothermal.

[0116] The principle of origami bionic support frame to adjust transparency through origami structure is to use expandable / foldable "origami bionic structure" to support photovoltaic modules, and to control the effective shading area, the gap between units, and the light transmittance by changing the folding angle or the overlapping area between layers.

[0117] The structural forms of the origami bionic support frame include "mountain-valley folding" structure or serpentine folding structure. Among them, each flexible photovoltaic unit in the "mountain-valley folding" structure is fixed on a section of origami module, and the photovoltaic layer is almost continuously blocked when unfolded; when folded, the units overlap to increase the light-emitting gap; the serpentine folding structure is a flexible photovoltaic strip connected by a hinge, which is flat when unfolded and linear when curled up, occupying only a small area.

[0118] The adjustment method of the drive unit in this embodiment includes an active adjustment method and a passive adjustment method, wherein:

[0119] Active adjustment methods include stepper motor + crank slider structure, shape memory alloy (SMA) drive, and electroactive polymer (EAP) drive.

[0120] For method 1: stepper motor + crank slider structure

[0121] Each flexible photovoltaic unit in the translucent photovoltaic cell layer is connected to a slide rod, which is connected to a micro-stepping motor through a crank; the micro-stepping motor controls the slide rod to push each photovoltaic unit to expand or fold, achieving continuous adjustment of the shielding area; the micro-stepping motor can accurately adjust the speed through PWM and combine with the encoder to accurately locate the current expansion degree.

[0122] For method 2: shape memory alloy (SMA) drive method

[0123] The SMA wire is connected to the flexible bracket of the origami bionic support frame, and deforms after controlled heating, driving the origami structure to stretch or contract; the SMA recovers its deformation when the temperature reaches the phase transition point, realizing the dynamic expansion of the photovoltaic layer; this driving method has the advantages of being light weight, noiseless, and low energy consumption, and is suitable for occasions that require quietness or weight restrictions; however, this method has the disadvantages of a slightly slow response speed and the need for precise temperature control circuits.

[0124] For method 3: electroactive polymer (EAP) driving method

[0125] Photovoltaic cells are adhered to a deformable EAP film. When power is applied, the EAP deforms, expanding or contracting the photovoltaic layer. This method has the advantages of high flexibility and fast response, and is suitable for wearable or shape-adaptive scenarios. However, it also has the disadvantages of being sensitive to humidity and temperature and requiring sealing.

[0126] Passive regulation methods include thermoresponsive material driving and photoresponsive polymer driving.

[0127] For method 1: thermoresponsive material (such as bimetallic strips or liquid crystal elastomer) driving method

[0128] The origami bionic support frame support structure is made of two materials with different thermal expansion coefficients. When the sunlight is strong, the structure warps and automatically opens the gap to increase the amount of light transmitted; when the sunlight is weak, it automatically closes to improve shading. It does not require a control system, has a medium response speed, is low in cost, and is suitable for large systems.

[0129] For method 2: photoresponsive polymer (photoinduced liquid crystal) driving method

[0130] Strong light exposure causes the liquid crystal polymer chain segments to rearrange, and the film to bend reversibly; it is sensitive to the intensity of sunlight and can automatically adjust its opening and closing; however, the material life and environmental adaptability need to be further optimized.

[0131] When the system of the present invention is running, the control execution logic of the control and feedback system is shown in Table 4:

[0132] Table 4 Control execution logic of control and feedback system

[0133]

[0134]

[0135] During operation, the control and feedback system sends control signals to the motor / SMA / polymer actuator; the origami biomimetic support frame's origami structure responds by adjusting the degree of shading to achieve the target transparency range (e.g., 30% to 80%). The controller records the impact of these adjustments on energy output and continuously optimizes the transparency-efficiency function using fuzzy control, PID control, or AI optimization algorithms.

[0136] In this embodiment, Figure 9 As shown in the figure, when the photovoltaic module gap is controlled, the length of the photovoltaic module unit is L, the expansion angle is θ, and the gap between the photovoltaic module units is d, then the light transmission area ratio By adjusting the expansion angle θ, α can be changed between 0.2 and 0.7; the controller infers the corresponding driving distance or current size through the geometric formula.

[0137] This origami-inspired photovoltaic-thermal coupling system features a translucent photovoltaic cell layer encapsulated with a flexible film, such as ETFE, for waterproof and dustproof performance. The origami-inspired support frame utilizes a carbon fiber / aluminum alloy combination for lightweight and corrosion resistance. The control unit is integrated into the end of the photovoltaic support and powered by a low-voltage busbar. The system boasts an IP65 protection rating and is suitable for harsh outdoor environments.

[0138] The present invention adopts a structural form of coupling a semi-transparent photovoltaic cell layer with a photothermal reflector, so that the short-wavelength part of sunlight (mainly visible light) is preferentially absorbed by the semi-transparent photovoltaic cell layer for power generation, while the long-wavelength part (mainly near-infrared light) passes through the semi-transparent photovoltaic cell layer and is reflected by the photothermal reflector to the photothermal collector for photothermal power generation, realizing spectral diversion and coordinated power generation, and greatly improving the total light energy utilization rate of the system.

[0139] The origami bionic support structure of the present invention can adjust the deployment state of the photovoltaic module through active (such as motor, SMA, etc.) or passive (such as thermotropic materials, phototropic materials) methods according to external light intensity, temperature and other environmental factors, thereby changing the photovoltaic shading area and transmittance, dynamically regulating the energy distribution between photovoltaic and photothermal, and realizing the intelligent energy flow scheduling strategy of "photovoltaic priority in weak light and photothermal preference in strong light", ensuring the efficient operation of the system under various climate and load conditions.

[0140] The present invention integrates photovoltaic power generation and solar thermal power generation systems into the same structural platform. Through modular design, it can be installed in various application scenarios such as trough reflectors, tower concentrators, roof platforms, and the top of solar thermal devices, achieving compact system integration and flexible layout, which is suitable for energy deployment needs in complex environments such as deserts and plateaus.

[0141] The present invention introduces a variety of structural schemes such as origami-like "Miura folding", "snake curling", and "louver flipping", so that the flexible photovoltaic modules have good expandable / contractible capabilities, can dynamically control the light transmittance, and are foldable during transportation and maintenance, saving space, improving the convenience of module replacement and maintenance, and enhancing the practicality and reliability of the system.

[0142] The present invention has designed a variety of driving and adjustment methods (such as stepper motors, shape memory alloys, electroactive polymers, thermally responsive bimetallic strips, etc.), and combined with multi-sensor signals such as light, temperature, and electric power to construct a closed-loop feedback control system, so that the deformation adjustment of photovoltaic modules can achieve intelligent response and adaptive adjustment, reduce the frequency of manual intervention, and improve the system automation and energy saving level.

[0143] Finally, it should be noted that the above embodiments are only used to illustrate the technical solutions of the present invention, rather than to limit it. Although the present invention has been described in detail with reference to the above embodiments, those skilled in the art should understand that they can still modify the technical solutions described in the above embodiments, or replace some or all of the technical features therein with equivalents. However, these modifications or replacements do not cause the essence of the corresponding technical solutions to deviate from the scope of the technical solutions of the embodiments of the present invention.

Claims

1. A photovoltaic-thermal coupling system with an origami-inspired configuration, characterized in that: It includes a semi-transparent photovoltaic cell layer, an origami bionic support frame, an adjustment drive unit, a photothermal reflector, a photothermal collector and a control and feedback system. The semi-transparent photovoltaic cell layer is connected to the origami bionic support frame. The origami bionic support frame is an origami structure and adjusts the amount of light reaching the photothermal reflector by folding and unfolding; the adjustment drive unit is connected to the origami bionic support frame and is used to drive the origami bionic support frame to fold or unfold; the photothermal reflector is located below the transparent photovoltaic cell layer and is used for long-wavelength light and focusing it onto the photothermal collector; the control and feedback system is connected to the adjustment drive unit and adjusts the energy distribution between photovoltaic and photothermal in real time.

2. The photovoltaic-thermal coupling system of origami biomimetic configuration according to claim 1, characterized in that: The semi-transparent photovoltaic cell layer adopts flexible perovskite photovoltaic cells, CIGS or amorphous silicon materials and has a light transmittance greater than 20%.

3. The photovoltaic-thermal coupling system of origami biomimetic configuration according to claim 1, characterized in that: The origami bionic support frame is made of polyimide, PEN or metal sheet material.

4. The photovoltaic-thermal coupling system of origami biomimetic configuration according to claim 1, characterized in that: The adjustment drive unit includes a stepping motor, a shape memory alloy or a thermal response material, and can automatically adjust the unfolding state of the photovoltaic layer according to the ambient light and temperature.

5. The photovoltaic-thermal coupling system of origami biomimetic configuration according to claim 1, characterized in that: The adjustment drive unit includes an active adjustment mode and a passive adjustment mode.

6. The photovoltaic-thermal coupling system of origami biomimetic configuration according to claim 5, characterized in that: The active adjustment method includes a stepper motor crank slider structure method, a shape memory alloy drive method and an electroactive polymer drive method.

7. The photovoltaic-thermal coupling system of origami biomimetic configuration according to claim 5, characterized in that: The passive regulation method includes a thermoresponsive material driving method and a photoresponsive polymer driving method.

8. The photovoltaic-thermal coupling system of origami biomimetic configuration according to claim 1, characterized in that: The origami bionic support frame adopts one of a Miura origami structure, a blade rotation structure, a serpentine folding structure, a module storage structure or a tower stacking structure.

9. The control method of the photovoltaic-thermal coupling system of the origami biomimetic configuration according to any one of claims 1 to 8, characterized in that: The steps include: S1, short wavelength light is absorbed by the semi-transparent photovoltaic cell layer, and long wavelength light passes through the semi-transparent photovoltaic cell layer and is reflected by the photothermal reflector to the photothermal collector, which is used for photovoltaic power generation and photothermal power generation respectively; S2. By adjusting the origami structure of the origami bionic support frame, the transmittance of the photovoltaic layer is changed to achieve energy distribution control between photovoltaic and photothermal energy.

10. The control method of the photovoltaic-thermal coupling system of the origami bionic configuration according to claim 9, characterized in that: By adjusting the folding degree of the origami bionic support frame, the effective shading area of the semi-transparent photovoltaic cell layer can be controlled; when the light is strong, the photovoltaic cell units are appropriately contracted to increase the gap, improve transparency, and enhance the photothermal energy; when the light is weak, the photovoltaic layer is unfolded to increase the shading rate and enhance the photovoltaic power output; the control system automatically decides the adjustment strategy based on light intensity, temperature, and load status information.

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