Self-Powered Window Inserts with UV-Absorbing Photovoltaic Layers
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing optoelectronic devices, such as those used in windows, are costly to install and retrofit, and lack effective options for modulating light transmission in existing structures.
Innovation Solution
The development of self-powered window inserts that incorporate a photovoltaic device with a photosensitive layer absorbing ultraviolet light and an electrically dimmable assembly to regulate visible and infrared radiation transmission, powered by the photovoltaic device, allowing for cost-effective and labor-efficient integration with existing fenestration systems.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If traditional optoelectronic devices are installed in windows, then light transmission modulation functionality is achieved, but installation cost and complexity increase significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The window system is divided into separate functional modules: the existing window structure remains intact while the photovoltaic insert is installed as a distinct component within the window frame. This segmentation allows the smart functionality to be added without replacing the entire window system, reducing installation complexity and cost.
Solution Approach 2:
The photovoltaic device is nested within the window frame structure, with the active area positioned behind the window glass. This nesting approach allows the optoelectronic functionality to be integrated into the existing window assembly without requiring complete system replacement, simplifying installation while maintaining light transmission modulation capability.
2Object-affected harmful factors
If photovoltaic devices with high UV absorption are used, then UV protection is improved, but visible light transmission is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The photovoltaic active layer is designed with selective spectral response, having high absorption coefficient specifically in the UV range (200-400 nm) while maintaining high transparency in the visible range (400-700 nm). This local quality approach allows the material to provide UV protection where needed while preserving visible light transmission for illumination.
Solution Approach 2:
The photosensitive material parameters are optimized to achieve peak absorption in the UV region while maintaining at least 50% average transmittance in the visible region. By adjusting the bandgap and absorption characteristics of the organic photovoltaic materials, the system achieves selective spectral filtering that protects against UV harm without compromising visible illumination.
3Ease of operation
If electrically dimmable assembly is added to regulate visible and infrared radiation, then light transmission control is improved, but device complexity and power requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The photovoltaic device generates electrical power from incident sunlight, which is then used to operate the electrically dimmable assembly. This self-service approach eliminates the need for external power connections, reducing electrical infrastructure complexity while enabling active light transmission control through the dimmable assembly.
Solution Approach 2:
The photovoltaic insert serves multiple functions simultaneously: it generates electrical power, provides UV protection, and enables active light transmission modulation through the dimmable assembly. This multi-functionality reduces the need for separate systems, simplifying the overall electrical architecture while achieving comprehensive light control.
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 cost-effective and labor-efficient retrofitting of existing windows with smart functionality, providing self-powered regulation of sunlight transmission and environmental data collection without the need for external power or specialized installation, reducing the complexity of integrating dynamic sunlight control functions.
Implementation Method 1
a photovoltaic device, the photovoltaic device including a photosensitive layer having peak absorption between 250 nm and 450 nm
Implementation Method 2
photosensitive layer having peak absorption between 250 nm and 450 nm
Implementation Method 3
an electrically dimmable assembly for modulating or regulating the transmission of visible and/or infrared electromagnetic radiation through the window insert
Data Source
AI summary
In one aspect, window inserts are described herein, which can modulate transmission of electromagnetic radiation through a window and can be self-powered. In some embodiments, a window insert comprises a photovoltaic device, the photovoltaic device including a photosensitive layer having peak absorption between 250 nm and 450 nm and an average transmittance of at least 50 percent in the visible region of the electromagnetic spectrum.