Aperiodic Multilayer Filter for Solar Spectral Separation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current selective light filters for solar applications are inefficient and costly due to their complex periodic designs, which are not adapted to solar energy systems, leading to reduced performance and high manufacturing complexity, and they fail to optimally reflect or transmit wavelengths efficiently between photovoltaic and thermal receivers.
Innovation Solution
A method for configuring a multilayer spectral-separation filter with an aperiodic structure using transparent oxides of high and low refractive indices, allowing for efficient wavelength selection and reflection or transmission, designed to maximize the efficiency of both photovoltaic and concentrated solar thermal power systems by optimizing layer thickness and number.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If traditional periodic multilayer filter designs are used for solar applications, then wavelength selection capability is provided, but manufacturing complexity and cost increase significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies asymmetry by transitioning from traditional periodic multilayer filter designs to aperiodic configurations. The aperiodic structure uses varying layer thicknesses and material arrangements that are not repetitive, thereby simplifying manufacturing processes while maintaining effective wavelength selection capabilities for solar energy applications
Solution Approach 2:
The patent utilizes parameter changes by optimizing the thickness and material composition of individual layers in the aperiodic structure. By adjusting these parameters during design, the filter achieves desired spectral separation performance without requiring complex periodic patterns, thus reducing manufacturing complexity while preserving wavelength selection functionality
2Measurement precision
If traditional periodic multilayer filter designs are used, then some wavelength filtering is achieved, but efficiency in reflecting or transmitting wavelengths between PV and thermal receivers is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies local quality by designing specific layers within the aperiodic structure to have optimized properties for particular wavelength ranges. Each layer's thickness and material are locally tuned to maximize reflection or transmission efficiency for specific bands, thereby improving overall energy conversion efficiency between photovoltaic and thermal receivers while maintaining manufacturing simplicity
3Ease of manufacture
If aperiodic multilayer filter structure is used, then manufacturing is simplified and costs are reduced, but filter configuration complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies preliminary action by pre-calculating and optimizing the aperiodic layer structure design before manufacturing. The configuration complexity is resolved in the design phase through computational optimization, allowing the actual manufacturing process to proceed with simplified, fixed parameters that do not require complex real-time adjustments
4Ease of manufacture
If aperiodic multilayer filter structure is used, then manufacturing costs are reduced, but optimization of layer thickness and number becomes more challenging
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies self-service by implementing iterative optimization algorithms that automatically adjust layer thickness and number parameters to achieve optimal performance. The system performs self-optimization through computational methods, eliminating the need for manual trial-and-error processes and reducing both time and cost while maintaining precise control over layer dimensions
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 aperiodic multilayer filter simplifies manufacturing, reduces costs, and enhances efficiency by selectively reflecting or transmitting wavelengths, overcoming the limitations of traditional periodic designs, and is suitable for industrial application in hybrid solar plants.
Implementation Method 1
photovoltaic solar power is characterised by the use of semiconductors, mainly made from crystalline silicon, which generate direct electricity after absorbing the solar radiation via photoelectric effect
Implementation Method 2
to reflect said radiation to a thermal receiver the ranges of solar radiation in which it is more efficient than the photovoltaic cell
Data Source
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AI summary
The invention relates to a method for configuring a selective multilayer filter (1) for spectral separation of solar radiation, which filter is suitable to be disposed on photovoltaic panels for use in energy generation plants, the multilayer filter (1) comprising a plurality of layers (2) of different refractive indices and thicknesses, the method being characterised in that it comprises carrying out a series of steps to configure said multilayer filter (1) such that photovoltaic and thermal efficiency is maximised. The invention also relates to a multilayer filter (1) configured using said method. The invention further relates to a plant for generating energy by