Building Sunshade With Integral Wind Turbine Generator
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing shades for controlling solar radiation on buildings are limited in their ability to harness energy from air currents, primarily relying on solar panels that generate electricity only during sunlight exposure, and lack integration of energy generation from wind-driven elements.
Innovation Solution
A light control device with a moveable turbine or fan mechanism integrated into the shade, capable of generating electricity from air currents, which includes a generator coupled to the turbine or fan, and a control system to optimize positioning for maximum energy generation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Loss of energy
If a shade structure is installed to control solar radiation, then energy savings from reduced cooling and lighting are achieved, but the structure cannot harness wind energy for electricity generation
Solution Approach 1:
The shade structure is designed to perform multiple functions: it provides solar radiation control while simultaneously housing a wind turbine system for electricity generation. The hollow interior space of the shade structure accommodates the turbine, allowing the same structure to serve both shading and energy harvesting purposes.
Solution Approach 2:
The invention combines two separate functions (solar control and wind energy harvesting) into a single integrated system. The shade structure and wind turbine are merged into one apparatus, where the turbine is positioned within the hollow interior of the shade, enabling simultaneous operation of both functions.
2Adaptability or versatility
If the shade structure is designed with a hollow interior to accommodate a turbine, then wind energy harvesting is enabled, but the structural complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The wind turbine system is nested within the hollow interior space of the shade structure. This nesting approach allows the turbine to be housed inside the existing shade structure without requiring a completely separate structure, thereby enabling wind energy harvesting while utilizing the already-present structural framework.
3Power
If a moveable turbine element is integrated into the shade, then electricity generation from wind is enabled, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The wind turbine system operates autonomously by utilizing natural wind currents to rotate the turbine blades, which in turn drives the generator to produce electricity. The system serves itself by converting available wind energy directly into electrical power without requiring external power sources or complex control mechanisms.
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 solution enables continuous electricity generation from wind energy, enhancing energy savings by utilizing air currents to power the turbine or fan, which in turn charges a storage battery, and adjusts shading to optimize both lighting and temperature control within the building.
Implementation Method 1
A moveable element, such as a turbine, is provided within the hollow and is capable of moving in response to moving air
Implementation Method 2
An electric generator is coupled to the movable element and is capable of generating electricity when the movable element is moved
Data Source
AI summary
A sun shade or light guide generates electricity via a wind-driven movable element, such as a turbine, which drives an electrical generator/alternator. The turbine and/or a fan may be interposed between shade elements for driving one or more generators. The generator may be driven directly or may be mechanically coupled to the movable element. Electricity produced by the generator may be stored in a battery and or used immediately.