Bifacial Solar Collector Layout for Daylighting and Power Generation
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional photovoltaic panels absorb or block all incoming light, preventing natural illumination in buildings while generating electricity, and existing systems require complex structures for light redirection.
Innovation Solution
An optical collection apparatus using light transmissive optical reflectors and bifacial solar cells that redirect direct light to the solar cells while allowing diffuse light to pass through, integrated with a single-axis tracking system for optimal sunlight capture.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Power
If conventional photovoltaic panels are used to generate electricity from sunlight, then electrical power output is improved, but natural illumination and diffuse light transmission to building interior deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The optical element is segmented into a first portion and a second portion with different optical properties. The first portion transmits diffuse light to the building interior while the second portion redirects direct light to photovoltaic cells, allowing simultaneous achievement of natural illumination and electricity generation.
Solution Approach 2:
Different portions of the optical element have different local optical qualities - the first portion is designed for diffuse light transmission while the second portion is designed for direct light redirection. This local differentiation resolves the contradiction between illumination and power generation.
2Productivity
If optical elements are added to redirect light onto photovoltaic cells, then power generation efficiency is improved, but device complexity and structural requirements worsen
Solution Approach 1:
The optical element combines multiple functions into a single integrated component: it acts as both a window pane for the building and a light redirection system for photovoltaic cells. This merging eliminates the need for separate complex structural systems while maintaining high power generation efficiency.
Solution Approach 2:
The optical element serves multiple functions simultaneously - it provides building envelope functionality, enables natural illumination through diffuse light transmission, and enhances photovoltaic power generation through direct light redirection. This multi-functionality reduces overall system complexity.
3Power
If photovoltaic panels are mounted on tracking systems to position panels in most efficient direction, then power output is improved, but device complexity and cost worsen
Solution Approach 1:
The optical element passively redirects direct light to photovoltaic cells based on the angle of incidence, without requiring active tracking mechanisms. The system serves itself by utilizing the inherent optical properties of the element to maintain efficient light collection throughout the day, eliminating complex tracking systems.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces mechanical tracking systems with an optical solution - the optical element's geometric design automatically redirects light to photovoltaic cells without mechanical movement. This substitution eliminates complex mechanical tracking while maintaining power output efficiency.
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
Provides efficient electricity generation with natural illumination and reduced glare, suitable for building integration without complex structural requirements.
Implementation Method 1
the optical element redirects direct light onto photovoltaic cells, while allowing some diffuse light to be transmitted through the optical element to the interior of the building
Implementation Method 2
conventional photovoltaic panels consist of arrays of photovoltaic cells, with each cell consisting of a semiconductor substrate. The photovoltaic cells collect solar energy and convert it into an electric current
Data Source
Figure 1A
Figure 1B~1C
Figure 2A
AI summary
An optical collection apparatus includes a plurality of light transmissive optical reflectors and a plurality of planar bifacial solar cells. Each light transmissive optical reflector is configured to transmit indirect light impinging on first and second collection sides thereof. First and second photovoltaic sides of each of the plurality of bifacial solar cells are positioned to collect indirect light impinging thereon. The planar bifacial solar cells are arranged such that at least one light transmissive optical reflector of the plurality of light transmissive optical reflectors is positioned between consecutive ones of the planar bifacial solar cells. Each light transmissive optical reflector of the plurality of light transmissive optical reflectors is configured to reflect direct incoming light impinging on the first collection side thereof towards the first photovoltaic side of a corresponding one of the planar bifacial solar cells. A solar collection and shading system is also contemplated.