Unitized Curtain Wall with Integrated PV Wireways
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional rooftop photovoltaic systems are limited in photovoltaic capability and aesthetic appeal, and existing building-integrated photovoltaic systems face challenges with shading, inefficient inter-module connections, lack of UL certification, and complex installation processes, which hinder widespread adoption.
Innovation Solution
A unitized curtain wall system integrating photovoltaic modules with mono and/or poly silicon crystalline cells, featuring preassembled units with integrated wireways, local inverter and control units, and UL-compliant electrical isolation, allowing for efficient energy generation and aesthetic integration on building façades.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of manufacture
If conventional rooftop PV systems are used, then installation is simple, but photovoltaic capability and aesthetic appeal are limited
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges PV modules with curtain wall framing members into an integrated unitized assembly. The PV modules are mechanically coupled to the framing members, allowing the façade system to simultaneously provide structural support, aesthetic appearance, and photovoltaic power generation. This integration resolves the contradiction by enabling high photovoltaic capability while maintaining architectural quality and improving upon simple rooftop installations.
2Productivity
If PV elements are integrated into vertical façade assemblies, then aesthetic appeal and PV area are improved, but regulatory compliance and safety become problematic
Solution Approach 1:
The patent incorporates UL-certified electrical isolation components and grounding systems into the unitized curtain wall assembly during manufacturing. Electrical isolation barriers are pre-installed between PV modules and conductive framing members, and grounding connections are pre-configured. This preliminary integration of safety features ensures regulatory compliance is built into the system design, resolving the contradiction between aesthetic integration and regulatory compliance.
3Productivity
If unitized curtain wall systems with integrated PV modules are used, then aesthetic integration and energy generation are improved, but installation complexity and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the curtain wall system into modular unitized assemblies, each containing PV modules, framing members, and electrical components as an integrated unit. These standardized modules can be manufactured off-site in controlled environments and then rapidly installed on-site by simply connecting adjacent units. This segmentation resolves the contradiction by reducing on-site installation complexity while maintaining high aesthetic integration and energy generation capabilities.
4Device complexity
If series connection of PV modules is used, then system assembly is simple, but overall productivity is limited by the least productive module
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements parallel electrical connections between PV modules within the unitized assembly, dividing the overall system into independent electrical strings. This allows each module to operate independently and contribute its full power output to the system, rather than being constrained by the weakest module in a series connection. The modular design maintains electrical connection simplicity while dramatically improving overall system productivity.
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 increased solar energy harvesting on building façades, reduces installation complexity, and achieves UL compliance, thereby enhancing energy efficiency and aesthetic appeal while minimizing costs and maintenance.
Implementation Method 1
A building integrated power generating system includes a plurality of photovoltaic (PV) modules integrated within a unitized curtain wall system
Data Source
AI summary
An unitized curtain wall unit houses energy conversion devices (such as photovoltaic modules), and includes integrated raceways/wireways for routing signal and power cables within a building façade or exterior shell structures.