A Cooling Apparatus
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Solution Overview
Problem
The performance of photovoltaic panels decreases with increasing temperature due to high solar radiation, necessitating a cooling solution to maximize efficiency.
Innovation Solution
A cooling apparatus comprising a thermally transmissive PV contact element with air channels and electric fans to transfer heat away from the panel, using airflow controlled by a controller to maintain consistent cooling.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Power
If solar radiation intensity is increased to maximize energy capture, then electrical power generation is improved, but panel temperature increases which reduces conversion efficiency
Solution Approach 1:
The backing sheet is divided into multiple segments with each segment containing a fan, allowing distributed cooling across the panel surface. This segmentation enables localized temperature control and improves overall cooling efficiency without requiring a single large cooling system
Solution Approach 2:
A thermally conductive backing sheet is introduced as an intermediary between the PV panel and the cooling fans. This backing sheet acts as a heat transfer medium, conducting heat from the panel to the cooling airflow generated by the fans, thereby resolving the temperature-efficiency contradiction
2Productivity
If cooling intensity is increased to maintain panel temperature, then conversion efficiency is improved, but energy consumption by fans increases
Solution Approach 1:
The cooling system is designed to be self-regulating, where the thermally conductive backing sheet passively distributes heat to multiple fan locations. The system automatically adjusts cooling based on thermal gradients without requiring external control, reducing unnecessary energy consumption while maintaining efficiency
Solution Approach 2:
Instead of providing uniform maximum cooling across the entire panel, the system applies partial cooling only where heat accumulation occurs. The segmented fan arrangement allows selective activation of cooling zones, reducing total energy consumption while maintaining sufficient conversion efficiency
3Device complexity
If fans are positioned at end portions of air channels, then airflow generation is simplified, but airflow consistency along channels deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The backing sheet is segmented into multiple zones with fans distributed across different segments. This segmentation allows fans to be positioned at optimal locations including central portions and end portions of air channels, creating multiple airflow sources that work together to maintain consistent airflow throughout the entire channel length
Solution Approach 2:
Different regions of the backing sheet are designed with different fan configurations based on local heat generation patterns. Central portions may have fans positioned to create laminar flow, while end portions have fans optimized for airflow generation, with each local region optimized for its specific cooling requirements
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 apparatus enhances panel efficiency by maintaining consistent airflow and reducing temperature, resulting in increased electrical output and performance.
Implementation Method 1
The PV contact sheet transfers heat away from the rear surface of the PV panel
Implementation Method 2
the or each electric fan generates an airflow along the channels defined by the PV contact element
Data Source
AI summary
A cooling apparatus for a photovoltaic panel, the apparatus comprising a thermally transmissive PV contact element; a backing sheet coupled to one side of the PV contact element; and one or more electric fans, wherein the thermally transmissive PV contact element includes planar PV contact portions and defines a plurality of air channels therein; wherein the backing sheet carries the or each electric fan; and wherein the or each electric fan generates an airflow along the channels defined by the PV contact element.