Rotatable Solar Tile Arrays for Adaptive Shading and Heat Exchange
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Solution Overview
Problem
Traditional solar shading in buildings is static and does not adapt to changing lighting conditions, time of day, or occupant presence, limiting its effectiveness in managing heat loads and energy collection.
Innovation Solution
Solar tiles with opposing sides for absorption and reflection of solar energy, capable of being arranged in arrays to adjust orientation based on environmental conditions, incorporating a hollow design for heat exchange fluid and rotation mechanisms to optimize energy collection and dissipation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If static shading devices are used, then the structure is simple and easy to manufacture, but the adaptability to changing lighting conditions and time of day is poor
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies the dynamics principle by making the shading tiles rotatable to change their orientation dynamically. Each tile can be rotated to present different surfaces (light-absorbing or light-reflecting) to the sun based on the time of day and solar position, transforming a static structure into a dynamic adaptive system that responds to changing environmental conditions.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent divides the shading system into individual modular tiles that can be independently oriented and rotated. This segmentation allows different portions of the array to be optimized for different functions (energy collection vs. heat reflection) at the same time, with each tile acting as an independent unit that can be controlled separately based on local solar conditions.
2Loss of energy
If tiles are made hollow for heat exchange fluid, then heat exchange efficiency is improved, but manufacturing complexity and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The hollow tile structure serves multiple functions simultaneously: it provides the structural body of the tile, creates internal channels for heat exchange fluid flow, and enables both heat absorption (when oriented toward the sun) and heat dissipation (when oriented away from the sun). This multi-functionality improves heat exchange efficiency while avoiding the need for separate cooling systems.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent incorporates hydraulic principles by using heat exchange fluid circulating through the hollow interior of the tiles. The fluid absorbs heat from the tile material (which gained heat from solar absorption) and transports it away, enabling efficient passive cooling and heat recovery without requiring active mechanical cooling systems.
3Use of energy by moving object
If tiles are arranged to absorb solar energy, then energy collection is maximized, but heat load on building increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements periodic action by rotating the tiles to change their orientation relative to the sun throughout the day. During periods when energy collection is desired (e.g., morning or cloudy days), tiles are oriented to absorb solar energy. During periods when cooling is needed (e.g., hot afternoon), tiles are rotated to reflect sunlight and dissipate heat, creating a periodic cycle of absorption and reflection that balances energy collection with heat management.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent applies local quality by having different tiles in the array perform different functions simultaneously. Some tiles are oriented to absorb solar energy for heating or power generation, while adjacent tiles are oriented to reflect sunlight and provide shading. This spatial differentiation allows the system to locally optimize for either energy collection or heat rejection depending on the specific needs of different building zones.
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
Enables adaptive solar shading that dynamically responds to solar conditions, reducing heat loads and allowing for efficient energy collection and dissipation, improving building energy management.
Implementation Method 1
The first side has a surface that is adapted to absorb solar energy
Implementation Method 2
a second side that is adapted to reflect solar energy
Implementation Method 3
heat absorbed from the sun can be transferred into the heat exchange fluid
Data Source
AI summary
In one embodiment, a solar tile includes a hollow body including a first half and a second half, the first half including a dark-colored side that is adapted to absorb solar energy and the second half including a light-colored side that is adapted to reflect solar energy, the first and second halves defining an open interior space through which heat exchange fluid can pass, and a central tube that enables the heat exchange fluid to enter or exit the interior space of the body, wherein the central tube also forms a central axis about which the tile can be rotated.