3D Solar Panel Module with Orthogonal Light Guide
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional solar panel systems are limited by their two-dimensional layout, which restricts solar energy production on rooftops with obstructions, as they cannot effectively utilize the available three-dimensional space for solar radiation collection.
Innovation Solution
A solar panel module design that incorporates a frame with multiple solar panels and a light guide system to redirect ambient light to otherwise obstructed panels, increasing energy capture efficiency by positioning panels orthogonally and using reflective surfaces to redirect scattered light for enhanced solar conversion.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If solar panels are positioned end to end on a single plane to gather solar energy, then the system is simple to install and maintain, but the solar production volume is limited by the available two-dimensional rooftop space
Solution Approach 1:
The patent transitions from traditional two-dimensional solar panel arrangement to a three-dimensional configuration by stacking panels vertically within a frame structure. Multiple solar panels are positioned at different heights and angles within the same footprint, effectively utilizing vertical space to increase solar energy capture without expanding the rooftop area occupied.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements a nested arrangement where multiple solar panels are contained within a single frame structure. The panels are nested vertically and angularly, with each panel occupying a different spatial level within the same horizontal footprint, maximizing space utilization while maintaining structural organization.
2Productivity
If solar panels are positioned to maximize space utilization, then the energy capture efficiency increases, but the structural complexity and manufacturing difficulty increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the solar energy capture system into discrete modular units, each containing a frame with multiple positioned panels. This segmentation allows for standardized manufacturing of individual modules that can be replicated and assembled, reducing overall manufacturing complexity while achieving three-dimensional space utilization.
Solution Approach 2:
The frame structure serves multiple functions simultaneously: it provides structural support for the panels, positions them in three-dimensional space, captures and redirects light through integrated light guides, and enables modular assembly. This multi-functionality reduces the need for separate components, simplifying manufacturing while achieving efficient space utilization.
3Productivity
If light guides are added to redirect light to obstructed panels, then the solar production within limited space increases, but the device complexity and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the light guide function directly into the frame structure, combining structural support and light redirection into a single integrated component. This eliminates the need for separate light guide installations and reduces overall system complexity while still achieving enhanced light redirection to obstructed panels.
Solution Approach 2:
The frame structure with integrated light guides automatically redirects light to obstructed panels without requiring external control systems or additional components. The geometric design of the frame and light guides inherently performs the light redirection function, making the system self-sufficient and reducing operational complexity.
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
This configuration nearly doubles solar energy production within the same footprint by achieving 85-95% efficiency in energy conversion, allowing for increased solar energy harvesting from the same two-dimensional space.
Implementation Method 1
a light guide coupled to a periphery of the frame and a periphery of the first solar panel, the light guide positioned to direct the light source to the second top surface of photocells of the second solar panel
Implementation Method 2
a first solar panel coupled to the frame, wherein the first solar panel includes a first top surface of photocells facing outward toward a light source
Data Source
AI summary
A solar panel module provides increased efficiency in solar production within a volume of area within a space's square footage. In general, embodiments arrange solar panels into polygonal shaped containers. The containers include inward facing solar cell faces that project orthogonally from a common base. The solar cell faces reflect sunlight captured within the module's volume and reflect it from one incident solar cell face onto one or more other inward facing surfaces of the plurality of panels joined together to form the polygonally shaped module. Thus, solar energy which is typically reflected off when incident upon a conventional solar panel is recaptured by adjacent panels in the module.