Modular facade or covering element with use of solar energy for water heating, air conditioning and ventilation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing solar energy absorber systems for air conditioning and water heating in buildings face inefficiencies due to limited modular assembly, dependency on pumping systems, and reduced performance in unfavorable weather conditions, as well as a lack of integrated air and water heating solutions.
Innovation Solution
A modular facade system that integrates solar absorber modules with a control system for efficient energy management, utilizing passive ventilation and natural convection to heat water and air, while being compatible with traditional ventilation systems and featuring a modular design for flexible assembly and enhanced thermal efficiency.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If solar radiation is used simultaneously for water and air heating, then the system can provide both heating functions, but the efficiency is limited
Solution Approach 1:
The system divides the solar energy utilization into separate functional modules: water heating circuits and air heating/cooling circuits. Each module can operate independently or in combination, allowing optimized energy distribution based on demand. The facade is segmented into multiple independent heating units that can be selectively activated.
Solution Approach 2:
The system dynamically adjusts the operation mode based on real-time conditions. The air heating unit can switch between heating and cooling modes depending on temperature differentials and solar irradiance. The control system optimizes the distribution of solar energy between water and air heating circuits to maximize overall efficiency.
2Use of energy by moving object
If the heat absorber plate is exposed directly to the exterior, then the system can capture solar radiation, but efficiency is reduced in unfavorable weather conditions
Solution Approach 1:
The absorber plate is nested within an insulated housing structure that protects it from direct environmental exposure. The water heating circuits are embedded within the absorber plate, creating a nested configuration where the fluid channels are protected inside the thermal mass. This nested design allows the system to maintain thermal efficiency while being less susceptible to adverse weather conditions.
3Ease of manufacture
If a modular facade system is implemented, then assembly flexibility is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The facade system is divided into standardized modular units, each containing complete water heating and air heating circuits. These self-contained modules can be manufactured independently and assembled in various configurations to meet different building requirements. The modular design simplifies installation and maintenance while reducing the overall complexity through standardization.
Solution Approach 2:
Each modular unit is designed to perform multiple functions: water heating, air heating, and passive cooling. The universal design allows the same module type to be used throughout the facade, reducing the variety of components needed and simplifying the overall system integration while maintaining assembly flexibility.
4Productivity
If pumping systems are used for water circulation, then water heating efficiency is improved, but dependency on mechanical systems increases
Solution Approach 1:
The system incorporates thermal expansion vessels that utilize natural thermal expansion and contraction of water to drive circulation without mechanical pumps. The expansion vessels create pressure differentials that automatically move water through the heating circuits based on temperature changes, eliminating the need for complex pumping systems while maintaining effective water circulation and heating 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
The system achieves high efficiency in energy use, reduces energy consumption, and maintains indoor thermal comfort by effectively harnessing solar energy for both air and water heating, with additional features of air cooling through passive ventilation, and improved thermal efficiency that is less susceptible to climate changes.
Implementation Method 1
a planar absorber for solar radiation for heat exchange
Implementation Method 2
comprising a piping of the fluid to be heated, arranged in the posterior face of the planar absorber
Implementation Method 3
an air duct for heat exchange with the planar absorber
Implementation Method 4
utilizing passive ventilation and natural convection to heat water and air
Implementation Method 5
utilizing passive ventilation and natural convection to heat water and air
Data Source
AI summary
A system for heating a work fluid and for air circulation comprises a plurality of collectors fitted top-to-top in one or more columns, such that air ducts of the modules constitute a single duct along a column, wherein the solar collector comprises: one solar radiation planar absorber with one anterior face exposed to solar radiation and another posterior face affixed to the work fluid piping; one duct for exchanging heat with the planar absorber via the air duct which has its air inlet and outlet on opposite tops of the solar collector. The system can additionally comprise a descendent air duct to collect air from the upper part of the building and to supply air to the lower side of one or more columns of the facade.