Lateral Photovoltaic Window Using Transparent Gel
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing photovoltaic modules for public transportation vehicles, particularly lateral windows, are not suitable due to obstructed views caused by photovoltaic cells and wires, and face challenges with raw material availability and cost, especially with conventional amorphous or crystalline silica.
Innovation Solution
A photovoltaic module with a silicon gel and semiconductor-filled inner space between transparent panels, using a simple filling arrangement and hidden electrodes to maintain a uniform transparent surface and generate electricity without hindering the view.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Power
If conventional photovoltaic cells with wires are used in lateral windows, then photovoltaic power generation is achieved, but the view is obstructed when observers are close to the window
Solution Approach 1:
The patent uses a thin film photovoltaic structure integrated into the window panel itself, replacing conventional bulky cells and wires. The photovoltaic layer is applied as a thin coating on the inner surface of the window, maintaining transparency while generating electricity.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent transitions from discrete photovoltaic cells arranged in a plane to a continuous thin film layer that spans the entire window surface. This dimensional transformation allows for uniform power generation across the window while preserving optical transparency.
2Adaptability or versatility
If custom-designed photovoltaic modules are manufactured for each application, then specific window requirements are met, but manufacturing complexity and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs a universal thin film photovoltaic technology that can be applied to various window types (different sizes, shapes, and configurations) without requiring custom design for each application. The same thin film process and materials can be used across different window applications.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent achieves adaptability to different window specifications by adjusting parameters such as window dimensions, frame configurations, and installation details, while maintaining the core thin film photovoltaic technology unchanged. This allows standardization of the photovoltaic module design.
3Power
If amorphous or crystalline silica is used for conventional photovoltaic cells, then photovoltaic function is achieved, but raw material availability is limited and manufacturing cost and energy consumption increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent changes the material composition from conventional silicon-based photovoltaic materials to organic or alternative materials that are more abundant and require less energy for processing. This material substitution maintains photovoltaic functionality while improving ease of manufacture.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent uses inexpensive, readily available materials for the thin film photovoltaic layer, replacing expensive silicon-based materials. The thin film structure uses minimal material quantities, reducing both material cost and manufacturing 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
The solution provides a cost-effective, efficient, and aesthetically pleasing photovoltaic power generation system for public transportation vehicles, generating 90 to 100 W/m² under standard lighting conditions with a voltage range of 2 to 3.5 V, suitable for both planar and curved panels.
Implementation Method 1
a photovoltaic generator arranged between the first and second transparent panels. The photovoltaic generator comprises a multi-layered colorant-photovoltaic structure that constitutes an anode and a one-side electrically conductive polymer foil that constitutes a cathode
Implementation Method 2
the photovoltaic gel contains a silicon gel and a semiconductor
Data Source
Figure 1~2
Figure 3~4
Figure 5
AI summary
A lateral window (12) for a public transportation vehicle, comprises a first transparent panel (18), a second transparent panel (20) spaced apart from the first transparent panel (18); and a window frame (16) for supporting the first transparent panel (18) and the second transparent panel (20). An inner space (24) filled by a transparent photovoltaic gel (46) is defined between the first (18) and second (20) transparent panels and the window frame (16).