Integrated Solar Building Element With Thermal Insulation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current photovoltaic systems for building integration are costly and lack mechanical and thermal stability, failing to meet building construction norms due to inadequate integration with building structures, leading to high maintenance and energy inefficiencies.
Innovation Solution
A structurally integrated solar building element (SISBE) with a sandwich structure comprising a solar energy converter and a building construction member, featuring elevated thermal insulation and mechanical properties, where the solar module is integrated with a core material layer and a fibre-reinforced thermoplastic or thermoset laminate for enhanced rigidity and toughness.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Use of energy by moving object
If photovoltaic systems are added as separate structures on existing buildings, then solar energy conversion is achieved, but construction costs increase and mechanical stability is insufficient
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the photovoltaic module with building construction members (roofing tiles, wall cladding, windows) into an integrated structurally integrated solar building element (SISBE). The solar converter member is embedded within or attached to the construction member, eliminating the need for separate solar system installation and reducing overall construction costs while maintaining solar energy conversion functionality.
Solution Approach 2:
The construction members are designed to serve multiple functions simultaneously: structural support, thermal insulation, and solar energy conversion. For example, roofing tiles incorporate photovoltaic cells to provide both weather protection and electricity generation, while window panes integrate solar converters to offer both glazing and power generation, reducing the need for additional components.
2Use of energy by moving object
If standard photovoltaic modules are used without structural integration, then solar energy conversion is achieved, but mechanical stability and thermal insulation are insufficient
Solution Approach 1:
The photovoltaic module is merged with structurally robust construction members such as roofing tiles and wall cladding. The construction member provides mechanical support and protection to the solar converter, enabling it to withstand environmental loads like wind, snow, and thermal stress, thereby achieving both solar energy conversion and mechanical stability.
Solution Approach 2:
The SISBE employs composite material structures combining photovoltaic materials with construction materials (ceramics, metals, polymers, wood). This composite design leverages the electrical properties of the photovoltaic layer and the mechanical properties of the construction material, creating a unified element that delivers both energy conversion and structural strength.
3Device complexity
If photovoltaic systems are integrated into building construction, then construction costs are reduced, but thermal insulation performance deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The SISBE incorporates localized thermal insulation layers at critical areas where heat transfer occurs, such as between the solar converter and the building interior, or at the edges and back of roofing tiles and wall cladding. This targeted insulation approach maintains thermal performance while preserving the cost benefits of integration.
Solution Approach 2:
The construction member integrates multiple material layers with different functional properties: photovoltaic materials for energy conversion, insulating materials (foam, fiber, air gaps) for thermal performance, and structural materials for mechanical strength. This multi-layer composite structure achieves a balance between cost reduction and thermal insulation preservation.
4Shape
If photovoltaic modules are substituted for building materials, then aesthetic uniformity is improved, but structural toughness and rigidity are reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The photovoltaic module is merged with structurally robust construction members such as roofing tiles and wall cladding. The construction member provides mechanical support and protection to the solar converter, enabling it to withstand environmental loads like wind, snow, and thermal stress, thereby achieving both solar energy conversion and mechanical stability.
Solution Approach 2:
The design parameters of the construction member are optimized to maintain structural toughness and rigidity while incorporating the photovoltaic module. This includes adjusting thickness, material composition, and geometric configuration to ensure the integrated element meets both aesthetic and structural requirements.
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 SISBE provides a cost-effective, durable, and energy-efficient solution that meets building construction norms, reducing the need for separate solar systems and improving thermal management, while maintaining mechanical stability against environmental loads.
Implementation Method 1
a solar energy converter member extending along and defining one surface of said construction element and providing for solar energy conversion
Implementation Method 2
featuring elevated thermal insulation and mechanical properties, where the solar module is integrated with a core material layer and a fibre-reinforced thermoplastic or thermoset laminate
Data Source
AI summary
A construction element (29) which extends in two dimensions comprises a solar energy converter member (1) which also extends along and defines one surface of the construction element (29). The construction element (29) further comprises a building construction member (30) which extends along the construction element (29) and defines the second surface thereof. At least a part of the solar energy converter member (1) is integral with at least a part of the building construction member (30) whereby this integral part both contributes to the requirements for solar energy conversion as well as to requirements for constructions.