Device for attaching to a noise barrier
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing noise barriers with integrated solar panels face challenges due to the sound-reflecting properties of solar panels, which contradict the desired sound absorption properties, and often require complex constructions and additional structural support, increasing costs and visual impact.
Innovation Solution
A device with elongate frame struts acting as both supporting structures and solar panel mounts, allowing for structural reinforcement, reduced visible surface area, and simplified assembly, featuring fins that can be arranged parallel or at an angle to maximize solar panel area and efficiency, and optionally coated with sound-absorbing materials to enhance sound absorption.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Use of energy by moving object
If solar panels are integrated into noise barriers, then energy generation capability is improved, but sound absorption capability deteriorates due to sound-reflecting properties of solar panel surfaces
Solution Approach 1:
The noise barrier surface is segmented into multiple inclined planes or facets at different angles. This segmentation allows different segments to serve different functions: some segments are oriented to maximize solar panel energy capture while others are oriented to absorb or deflect sound waves, thereby resolving the contradiction between energy generation and sound absorption capabilities
Solution Approach 2:
Different regions or segments of the noise barrier are given different local properties. Solar panels are selectively positioned on segments with optimal orientation for energy generation, while other segments maintain sound-absorbing materials or geometric configurations optimized for noise reduction. This local differentiation allows simultaneous optimization of both energy generation and sound absorption in different areas
2Stability of the object's composition
If additional supporting structures are added to mount solar panels on noise barriers, then structural stability is improved, but device complexity and costs increase
Solution Approach 1:
The mounting structure for solar panels is merged with the noise barrier framework itself. The solar panels are directly attached to the existing structural elements of the noise barrier, eliminating the need for separate supporting structures. This integration maintains structural stability while reducing device complexity and installation costs
Solution Approach 2:
The noise barrier structure is designed to serve multiple functions simultaneously: it provides noise reduction, structural support, and mounting infrastructure for solar panels. The universal design allows the same structural elements to fulfill multiple roles, thereby improving structural stability without adding dedicated supporting structures that would increase complexity
3Stability of the object's composition
If additional supporting structures are added to mount solar panels, then structural stability is improved, but installation costs increase
Solution Approach 1:
The solar panel mounting system is merged with the noise barrier construction process. Solar panels are installed as an integrated component during the initial construction phase, utilizing the existing structural framework. This approach eliminates the need for separate supporting structures and reduces installation costs by combining multiple functions into a single construction process
4Strength
If frame cross-section dimensions are increased to provide structural reinforcement, then structural strength is improved, but visible surface area increases causing greater visual impairment
Solution Approach 1:
The frame structure employs asymmetric design where structural reinforcement is concentrated in non-visible or less visible areas. The cross-section dimensions are optimized to provide necessary strength while minimizing the visible profile from the primary viewing direction. This asymmetric optimization allows structural strength to be improved without proportionally increasing the visible surface area that causes visual impairment
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 reduces the visible surface area, minimizes visual impairment, and enhances sound absorption while maintaining high solar panel efficiency, allowing for cost-effective installation and easy maintenance, suitable for both new and existing walls without additional structural support, and can be used on transparent noise barriers.
Implementation Method 1
solar panels which are configured to convert the radiation energy of solar rays into electrical energy
Implementation Method 2
sound-absorbing sound-dampening material
Data Source
AI summary
A device is provided for vertically attaching to a wall, in particular to a noise barrier, including a frame and at least two fins which have solar panels and are provided on a front face of the frame, wherein at least two supporting projections, each with a bearing for supporting the frame, extend outwards from a rear face of the frame, the fins forming elongate frame struts.