A composite insulating panel
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Solution Overview
Problem
There is a need for a thermally efficient system for building cladding that incorporates photovoltaic solar collectors effectively, as existing solutions do not adequately address energy efficiency and integration with insulation panels.
Innovation Solution
A composite insulating panel design featuring a cut-away opening in an external sheet for mounting a photovoltaic solar collector module, with insulating material between the module and internal sheet, and electrical connections integrated within the panel for efficient solar energy collection and easy assembly, utilizing metallic materials and foam insulation for enhanced thermal efficiency.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Use of energy by moving object
If photovoltaic solar collector modules are integrated into composite insulating panels, then solar energy collection capability is improved, but manufacturing complexity increases due to the need for cut-away openings and precise module mounting
Solution Approach 1:
The panel is segmented into distinct functional zones: solid insulating panels for thermal efficiency and cut-away openings for photovoltaic module integration. This segmentation allows each component to perform its specialized function optimally while maintaining overall system efficiency.
Solution Approach 2:
The composite panel system serves multiple functions simultaneously: the solid panels provide thermal insulation, the cut-away openings accommodate photovoltaic modules for solar energy generation, and the overall structure provides building cladding. This multi-functionality resolves the contradiction by integrating energy collection into the insulation system.
2Use of energy by moving object
If photovoltaic modules are mounted in cut-away openings in the external sheet, then solar energy collection is improved, but thermal insulation performance deteriorates due to potential heat loss through openings
Solution Approach 1:
The panel system exhibits local quality by having different thermal properties in different zones: solid panels with high insulation values in non-opening areas, and localized cut-away openings with reduced insulation. This allows optimal thermal performance in the majority of the panel while accommodating solar modules where needed.
Solution Approach 2:
The cut-away openings, which could be considered harmful to thermal insulation, are converted into beneficial features by integrating photovoltaic modules that generate renewable energy. The energy generation benefit offsets the thermal loss, transforming a potential disadvantage into an advantage.
3Ease of operation
If integrated electrical connections are provided within the panel, then ease of installation is improved, but manufacturing complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
Electrical connections are pre-installed and integrated into the panel structure during manufacturing, before the panel reaches the installation site. This preliminary action eliminates the need for complex on-site electrical work, greatly simplifying installation while the manufacturing process handles the complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The electrical connection system is merged with the panel structure itself, integrating wiring and connectors into the manufacturing process. This combination allows the panel to be installed as a complete, ready-to-use unit with built-in electrical connectivity, simplifying both manufacturing and installation.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
The solution provides a thermally efficient and cost-effective integration of photovoltaic solar collectors into building cladding, maximizing solar energy collection while simplifying installation and reducing on-site labor and safety risks, with integrated electrical connections and robust yet lightweight panels.
Implementation Method 1
a body of insulating material between inner face of the second sheet, the inner face of the first sheet and the inner face of the photovoltaic solar collector module
Implementation Method 2
a photovoltaic solar collector module mounted in the opening in the first sheet
Data Source
Figure 1~2
Figure 3
Figure 4~5
AI summary
An insulating panel 1 comprises a first or external sheet 2, a second or inner sheet 3 with an insulating foam 4 therebetween. The external sheet 2 has a cut-away rectilinear opening 7 in a flat portion thereof and a photovoltaic solar collector module 8 is mounted in the opening 7 in the external sheet 1. The body 4 of insulating material extends between inner face of the internal sheet 3 and the inner faces of the external sheet 2 and the photovoltaic solar collector module 8. The outer face of the solar collector module 8 is preferably substantially co-planar with the outer face of the external sheet 2 to provide a flat surface for run-off of debris/weather. A small gap is provided between the module and the adjacent edges of the external sheet 2. The gap allows for minor movements as a result of thermal expansion/contraction.