10.1007/s40095-016-0215-3

Methods for modelling and analysis of bendable photovoltaic modules on irregularly curved surfaces

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  • Abel Groenewolt*1,
  • Jack Bakker2,
  • Johannes Hofer1,
  • Zoltan Nagy1,
  • Arno Schlüter1,
  1. Architecture and Building Systems, Institute of Technology in Architecture (ITA), ETH Zurich, Zurich, 8093, CH
  2. ZJA, Zwarts & Jansma Architects, Amsterdam, NL-1086 XK, NL
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Published in Issue 2016-08-02

How to Cite

Groenewolt, A., Bakker, J., Hofer, J., Nagy, Z., & Schlüter, A. (2016). Methods for modelling and analysis of bendable photovoltaic modules on irregularly curved surfaces. International Journal of Energy and Environmental Engineering, 7(3 (September 2016). https://doi.org/10.1007/s40095-016-0215-3
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Abstract

Abstract Most photovoltaic modules are planar and as a result, research on panel layout for photovoltaic systems typically uses planar panels. However, the increased availability of thin-film photovoltaic modules opens up possibilities for the application of flexible solar panels on irregularly curved surfaces, including the integration of photovoltaic panels on building roofs with double curvature. In order to efficiently arrange photovoltaic panels on such surfaces, geometric CAD tools as well as radiation analysis tools are needed. This paper introduces a method to generate geometry for flexible photovoltaic modules on curved surfaces, as well as a method to arrange multiple of such modules on a surface. By automating the generation of possible photovoltaic panel arrangements and linking the geometric tools to solar analysis software, large numbers of design options can be analysed in a relatively short time. This combination of geometry generation and solar analysis provides data that is important for electrical design of photovoltaic systems. The merits of the methods we introduce are illustrated with a case study, for which hundreds of design configurations have been explored in an automated manner. Based on analysis of the numeric data generated for each of the configurations, the effects of panel dimensions and orientation on solar insolation potential and panel curvature have been established. The quantitative and qualitative conclusions resulting from this analysis have informed the design of the photovoltaic system in the case study project.

Keywords

  • Flexible photovoltaic modules,
  • Geometry,
  • Double curvature,
  • Surface rationalisation,
  • Solar analysis
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