Transparent Solar Window Conductor Routing
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Solution Overview
Problem
Integrating transparent solar collectors into operational windows poses challenges such as delicate electronic integration, conductor durability, energy efficiency, and aesthetic compatibility, as traditional solar collectors are opaque and lack the necessary design and mounting techniques for operational windows that require opening and closing functionality.
Innovation Solution
The development of novel conductor systems and mounting techniques that allow for the integration of transparent solar collectors into window frames, including the use of flexible conductors, positional contact interference, and hidden connectors to ensure durability and energy efficiency while maintaining the window's operational functionality and aesthetic appeal.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Use of energy by moving object
If traditional solar collectors are used in windows, then energy collection efficiency is improved, but aesthetic appeal and transparency are lost
Solution Approach 1:
The solar collector is segmented into discrete photovoltaic cells arranged in a grid pattern on the window pane. This segmentation allows the window to maintain transparency between cells while collecting solar energy, resolving the contradiction between energy efficiency and aesthetic appeal.
Solution Approach 2:
Different regions of the window have different properties: areas with photovoltaic cells provide energy collection, while areas between cells maintain transparency. This local differentiation allows simultaneous achievement of energy efficiency and aesthetic appeal.
2Use of energy by moving object
If conductors are integrated into the window frame for solar energy transfer, then energy transfer efficiency is improved, but conductor durability under repetitive opening/closing is compromised
Solution Approach 1:
The conductor system is designed to be dynamic rather than rigid, allowing it to flex and move with the window frame during opening and closing operations. This dynamic design maintains electrical connectivity while accommodating mechanical movement, resolving the contradiction between energy transfer efficiency and conductor durability.
Solution Approach 2:
Flexible conductive traces or films are used instead of rigid conductors. These flexible conductors can bend and stretch with the window frame movements, maintaining both electrical efficiency and mechanical durability under repetitive opening and closing.
3Use of energy by moving object
If transparent solar collectors are integrated into operational windows, then aesthetic appeal and energy generation are improved, but the complexity of mounting and conductor integration increases
Solution Approach 1:
The mounting structure and conductor integration are merged into a unified design where the same structural elements that hold the transparent solar collector also provide pathways for conductors. This integration reduces the number of separate components and simplifies the overall assembly process.
Solution Approach 2:
The window frame and mounting structure are designed to serve multiple functions: structural support, conductor routing, and electrical connection. This multi-functionality reduces complexity by eliminating the need for separate dedicated components for each function.
4Ease of manufacture
If conductors are made accessible for connection to solar system circuits, then ease of installation and repair is improved, but energy loss through leakage or heat increases
Solution Approach 1:
The conductor connection points are extracted and separated from the main window structure, allowing access for installation and repair while being sealed off from the interior environment. This extraction enables easy maintenance while preventing energy leakage through properly designed sealed connection interfaces.
Solution Approach 2:
Sealed connectors or intermediary components are used at conductor connection points. These intermediaries provide electrical access while maintaining the seal to prevent energy leakage, resolving the contradiction between ease of repair and energy efficiency.
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 the efficient transfer of electrical energy from transparent solar collectors to power external devices, enhances the durability of conductors to withstand repetitive opening and closing, and maintains the window's energy efficiency and aesthetic appeal.
Implementation Method 1
transparent solar collectors are by their nature clear and encouraging for use as a glass replacement in windows
Data Source
AI summary
Disclosed are novel forms of operable windows capable of producing an electrical current utilizing a transparent or semi-transparent solar collecting substrate. A scaffold assembly is utilized to enclose the perimeter of the substrate and one or more solar cells. The scaffold may comprise a scaffold port providing passage for an exit conductor from a sash lead in electrical communication with a solar cell. The assembly may include a bridge portion of an exit conductor that carries electrical current from a sash portion to a frame portion of the window assembly. A frame port extending through the frame of the window may provide passage of the exit conductor to electronic accessories or to circuits that can store or reuse the electrical energy produced. Various forms of electronic accessories are disclosed for fixed or releasable mounting to portions of the window.