Combo solar module
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing solar modules, including combination solar modules, pose challenges in firefighting due to the creation of a fire-promoting chimney effect and difficulty in extinguishing the area below them, and they do not efficiently generate both thermal and electrical energy while maintaining reduced production costs and weight.
Innovation Solution
A combination solar module design that uses water as both a heat-transporting medium and extinguishing agent, with sprinkler nozzles and an electrical sensor to increase flow performance in case of a fire, and incorporates a UV-resistant plastic carrier with a high thermal conductivity film for improved heat transfer and efficiency, allowing for simultaneous electrical and thermal energy generation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Use of energy by moving object
If solar modules are mounted on building roofs with necessary distance below them, then solar energy generation is enabled, but a fire-promoting chimney effect is created and extinguishing the area below becomes more difficult
Solution Approach 1:
The patent converts the water flow system originally designed for thermal energy transport into a dual-purpose system that also provides fire extinguishing capability. The heat-transporting medium (water) circulating through the solar module is redirected via nozzles to suppress fires on the roof surface, transforming a potential hazard into a protective feature.
Solution Approach 2:
The water circulation system serves multiple functions: it transports heat from the photovoltaic modules for thermal energy generation, cools the modules to maintain electrical efficiency, and acts as a fire suppression system through integrated nozzles. This multi-functionality addresses both energy generation and fire safety requirements.
2Use of energy by moving object
If a combination solar module is designed to generate both thermal and electrical energy, then energy efficiency is improved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines photovoltaic modules for electrical energy generation with a thermal collection system using transparent heat-exchange pipes in direct contact with the module rear surface. This integrated design allows simultaneous generation of electrical and thermal energy within a single module structure, improving overall energy utilization.
Solution Approach 2:
The module employs a composite structure combining photovoltaic cells, transparent heat-exchange pipes, insulation layers, and protective glass or plastic coverings. This composite design enables multiple functions (electrical generation, thermal collection, insulation, protection) within a unified module architecture.
3Use of energy by moving object
If the water flow rate is increased to improve heat transport and fire extinguishing capability, then thermal energy generation and fire suppression performance are enhanced, but the pump power consumption increases
Solution Approach 1:
The water flow system is designed with varying flow rates in different zones: higher flow rates through the heat-exchange pipes during normal operation for efficient thermal energy collection, and directed flow through nozzles during fire suppression events. This localized flow optimization balances heat transport efficiency with pump energy consumption.
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
Enhances electrical efficiency, reduces production costs, and addresses firefighting challenges by using the solar module's water flow for extinguishing, while maintaining a reduced weight and improved heat transfer for efficient energy generation.
Implementation Method 1
a meandering groove 3, which is open on the upper side of this carrier section, is formed in the carrier section 2.1, into which a hose or pipe piece 4... is inserted
Implementation Method 2
through which a heat-transporting medium can flow
Implementation Method 3
consists of a carrier 2... which is rectangular in plan view... with several webs 2.3... that serve to stiffen the carrier 2 and serve as a support and mounting surface for the combination solar module 1
Implementation Method 4
the water used as the heat-transporting medium is also available as extinguishing water in the event of a fire... at nozzles, e.g. sprinkler nozzles, which are provided at least on the underside of the combination solar module
Data Source
Figure 1~4
Figure 2
Figure 3
AI summary
The module (1) has photovoltaic modules (8, 8.1) provided on a top surface of a flat plate-shaped base or support element. The base or support element is made of plastic, and a carrier (2) is formed as a molded part made of plastic film. A flow channel is formed between the carrier and a closure element e.g. closure cover (6). The carrier and the closure cover are material-conclusively connected with one another. The closure cover is molded on the carrier under formation of the flow channel. An independent claim is also included for a method for manufacturing a combined solar module.