Solar Thermal Cladding Structure to Reduce Building Heating Emissions
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Solution Overview
Problem
Traditional heating systems rely on fossil fuels, contributing to greenhouse gas emissions, and there is a need for a sustainable alternative that can efficiently harness solar energy for heating buildings.
Innovation Solution
A solar thermal cladding structure comprising a double-layered membrane supported by a frame of connected beam struts, mounted on exterior walls or roofs, which collects solar thermal radiation and circulates heated air into buildings, reducing natural gas consumption and emissions.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Object-affected harmful factors
If fossil fuels (natural gas) are used for heating, then heating requirements are met, but carbon dioxide emissions increase
Solution Approach 1:
The invention changes the fundamental parameter of the heating energy source from fossil fuels to solar thermal energy. The solar thermal cladding structure captures solar radiation and converts it to thermal energy, fundamentally altering the energy source parameter to eliminate CO2 emissions while meeting heating requirements
Solution Approach 2:
The invention converts the harmful effect of relying on fossil fuels (CO2 emissions) into a beneficial solar-powered heating system. By utilizing abundant solar energy, the system transforms the problem of fossil fuel dependence into a renewable energy solution that reduces emissions while providing heating
2Object-affected harmful factors
If solar thermal cladding structure is installed, then carbon dioxide emissions are reduced, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The solar thermal cladding structure serves multiple functions simultaneously: it acts as both the building envelope (cladding) and the solar energy collection system. This multi-functionality reduces device complexity by combining what would otherwise be separate systems into a single integrated structure
Solution Approach 2:
The invention merges the building cladding function with the solar thermal collection function into a single integrated system. The cladding structure itself becomes the solar collector, eliminating the need for separate solar panels or heating systems and thereby reducing overall device 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
The solar thermal cladding structure effectively reduces carbon dioxide emissions by utilizing solar energy to provide heat, offering a cost-effective and environmentally advantageous solution for heating buildings, potentially replacing up to 30-60% of natural gas heating requirements.
Implementation Method 1
collect solar thermal radiation to heat the house or building
Data Source
AI summary
A solar thermal cladding structure includes a frame, a membrane extending along the frame, the membrane having a first layer and a second layer, and an inflation blower connected to the membrane and in fluid communication with a space between the first layer and the second layer of the membrane. The frame includes a plurality of connectors and a plurality of beam struts. The plurality of connectors connect the plurality of beam struts together.