Transparent Window PV Layout for Power Generation and Heat Relief
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Solution Overview
Problem
The existing technologies for cooling interior spaces, such as those receiving sunlight through large windows, are energy-intensive and rely on non-sustainable sources, leading to environmental concerns, and there is a need for a more efficient way to generate electricity while addressing overheating issues.
Innovation Solution
A device comprising transmissive panels and photovoltaic elements arranged in specific orientations within a support structure that can be integrated into existing window frames, allowing for the generation of electricity from sunlight while maintaining high transparency and redirecting light for optimal energy harvesting.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Temperature
If air conditioners are used to cool interior spaces, then overheating is reduced, but energy consumption increases and environmental sustainability deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent converts harmful solar radiation (which causes overheating) into beneficial electrical energy through photovoltaic elements. The photovoltaic elements are positioned to capture sunlight that passes through the transmissive panel, transforming the harmful thermal load into useful electricity that can power cooling systems or reduce grid dependency
Solution Approach 2:
The window system generates its own electricity through integrated photovoltaic elements, creating a self-sustaining solution where the window itself produces the energy needed to mitigate overheating, reducing reliance on external energy sources for cooling
2Power
If photovoltaic elements are integrated into window panels, then electricity generation is enabled, but light transmission and transparency are reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the window system into separate functional components: a transmissive panel for light transmission and separately positioned photovoltaic elements for electricity generation. The photovoltaic elements are placed in the periphery or on the side of the light receiving surface, allowing the central area to remain highly transparent while still capturing sufficient light for power generation
Solution Approach 2:
The photovoltaic elements are arranged in three-dimensional space around the light receiving surface, utilizing peripheral regions and angled orientations to capture light without blocking the primary view-through path, thus maintaining transparency while enabling power generation
3Area of stationary object
If photovoltaic elements are positioned within the projection of the first panel, then space utilization is optimized, but installation flexibility and adaptability are reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The support structure is designed with a channel that can accommodate photovoltaic elements in various configurations and orientations. This universal support system can be adapted to different window frame types and sizes, allowing the same basic structure to serve multiple installation scenarios while maintaining optimized space utilization
Solution Approach 2:
The support structure allows for adjustable positioning of photovoltaic elements within the channel, enabling the system to adapt to different installation requirements and window configurations. The elements can be positioned at different locations along the channel while remaining within the projection of the light receiving surface
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 device effectively generates electricity while reducing the need for non-sustainable energy sources by harnessing sunlight, providing a versatile solution that can replace standard windows and improve energy efficiency in building structures.
Implementation Method 1
first and second photovoltaic elements, the first photovoltaic element being arranged in a first orientation with respect to the light receiving surface and the second photovoltaic element being arranged in a second orientation that is different to both the orientation of the first photovoltaic element and the orientation of the light receiving surface
Implementation Method 2
first and third panels that are each at least partially transmissive for visible light
Data Source
AI summary
The present disclosure provides a device for generating electricity. The device includes first and third panels that are each at least partially transmissive for visible light and are spaced apart from each other. The first panel defines a light receiving surface. The device further includes first and second photovoltaic elements. The first photovoltaic element is arranged in a first orientation with respect to the light receiving surface and the second photovoltaic element being arranged in a second orientation that is different to both the orientation of the first photovoltaic element and the orientation of the light receiving surface. The first photovoltaic element and the second photovoltaic element are located within a projection of the circumference of the first panel in a direction along a surface normal of the first panel.