A heat pipe photovoltaic/thermal (PV/T) hybrid system and its performance evaluation

Building-integrated photovoltaic/thermal (BIPV/T) system has been considered as an attractive technology for building integration. The main part of a BIPV/T system is PV/T collector. In order to solve the non-uniform cooling of solar PV cells and control the operating temperature of solar PV cells conveniently, a heat pipe photovoltaic/thermal (PV/T) hybrid system (collector) has been proposed and described by selecting a wick heat pipe to absorb isothermally the excessive heat from solar PV cells. A theoretical model in terms of heat transfer process analysis in PV module panel and introducing the effectiveness-number of transfer unit (?-NTU) method in heat exchanger design was developed to predict the overall thermal-electrical conversion performances of the heat pipe PV/T system. A detailed parametric investigation by varying relevant parameters, i.e., inlet water temperature, water mass flow rate, packing factor of solar cell and heat loss coefficient has been carried out on the basis of the first and second laws of thermodynamics. Results show that the overall thermal, electrical and exergy efficiencies of the heat pipe PV/T hybrid system corresponding to 63.65%, 8.45% and 10.26%, respectively can be achieved under the operating conditions presented in this paper. The varying range of operating temperature for solar cell on the absorber plate is less than 2.5 °C. The heat pipe PV/T hybrid system is viable and exhibits the potential and competitiveness over the other conventional BIPV/T systems.     

Temperature of a photovoltaic module under the influence of different environmental conditions – experimental investigation

The climate changes affect photovoltaic (PV) module temperature significantly. The module temperature is one of the most important factors that influence the PV module efficiency and a deep analysis of PV module temperature will aid in better understanding of the environmental influences on the PV module performance. The module temperature depends on many parameters such as solar radiation, ambient temperature, air humidity, speed and direction of the wind, PV module orientation, dust and sand deposition on PV module, and PV module materials. An experimental research was conducted to investigate the effect of these factors on the PV module temperature in the Renewable Energy Laboratory of the Graduate University of Advanced Technology in Iran. The results of this study highlighted that the deposited dust over the PV module surface increases the module temperature and this consequently decreases the PV module power. It was also revealed that a combination of the temperature increase and the incident solar radiation decrease due to the dust deposition over the PV module enhances significantly the module power reduction.     

Power output analysis of transparent thin-film module in building integrated photovoltaic system (BIPV)

The power output of PV module was characterized depending on incidence angle and the azimuth using a transparent thin-film solar cell in a mock-up model at various slopes to the south, as a building integrated photovoltaic system. Simulated data was also evaluated to determine the influence of the inclined angles and the azimuth on the power performance of the PV module. The experimental and computed data fitted comparatively well through the relative error estimation after calibration. It was found that the PV module with a slope of 30°, facing south, provided the best power performance according to an annual power output, producing about 2.5 times higher power output than that with the vertical module. Furthermore, the PV module facing south showed higher power output than that to the east. The varying power output of the PV module with inclined angles can be explained by the impact of the incidence angle modifier of the glass on the PV module. Specifically, the increased inclined slope of the PV module resulted in the reduced solar energy transmission, which producing a significant reduction of power output for the PV module with a slope over 70°.     

Effect of building integrated photovoltaics on microclimate of urban canopy layer

Building integrated photovoltaics (BIPV) has potential of becoming the mainstream of renewable energy in the urban environment. BIPV has significant influence on the thermal performance of building envelope and changes radiation energy balance by adding or replacing conventional building elements in urban areas. PTEBU model was developed to evaluate the effect of photovoltaic (PV) system on the microclimate of urban canopy layer. PTEBU model consists of four sub-models: PV thermal model, PV electrical performance model, building energy consumption model, and urban canyon energy budget model. PTEBU model is forced with temperature, wind speed, and solar radiation above the roof level and incorporates detailed data of PV system and urban canyon in Tianjin, China. The simulation results show that PV roof and PV façade with ventilated air gap significantly change the building surface temperature and sensible heat flux density, but the air temperature of urban canyon with PV module varies little compared with the urban canyon of no PV. The PV module also changes the magnitude and pattern of diurnal variation of the storage heat flux and the net radiation for the urban canyon with PV increase slightly. The increase in the PV conversion efficiency not only improves the PV power output, but also reduces the urban canyon air temperature.     

建筑一体化电热冷联产光伏组件能量特性研究

传统太阳能光伏或光热建筑一体化只能为建筑提供单一电能或热能。通过研究一种集成发电、集热、制冷3种功能的建筑一体化电热冷联产光伏组件,对其夏季工况下能量特性进行了实际检测。结果表明:白天,组件集热同时能有效降低光伏电池温度,组件工作温度高于环境温度约8~16℃,发电和集热效率分别为14.1%~13.7%和40.1%~15.7%;晴朗夜间,组件通过对流和辐射两种传热方式进行散热制冷,总制冷功率为26.0~268.5 W/m~2。电热冷联产光伏组件适合与热泵结合,为建筑提供所需能源。     

A proposed framework for dynamic modelling of photovoltaic systems for DG applications

Dynamic modelling and simulation is essential to predict the overall electrical performance of photovoltaic (PV) systems. PV simulation models in the literature are not suitable for dynamic analysis with decentralised generation (DG) applications. This article proposes a framework for PV system dynamic modelling and simulation process. This framework presents the steps required to model the process of solar power generation, reflecting the environmental variables affecting the generation process. Based on the framework steps, a computer simulation model is developed in MATLAB-Simulink of the PV generator, and validated by comparing the developed PV electrical performance characteristic curves with those of the manufacturer's data sheet and the ones developed by commercial software. The last step of the proposed framework is dedicated for testing the developed PV model for grid-connected operation. The proposed framework resulted in a simulation photovoltaic decentralised generation model which constitutes a computer-aided design tool that is helpful for real-world solar energy engineering.     

Performance evaluation of PV module under various parametric conditions

The performance of a photovoltaic (PV) module varies with the change in its internal parameters, namely, series resistance, shunt resistance and ideality factor. They vary due to the manufacturing process involved as well as the material used to fabricate the PV system. For the performance to be as close to the ideal case, a model of the PV system has been used to simulate the performance of the various parameters. This paper presents the effects of variations in the performance of a PV module which occur due to the change in its parameters. One-diode model of a PV cell has been used to plot current–voltage and power–voltage characteristics of a 37-Wp solar module.     

Evaluation of a PV-integrated building application in a well-controlled outdoor test environment

This paper presents the assessment of experimental data for electrical and thermal performance evaluation of photovoltaic (PV) systems integrated as cladding components into the building envelope, giving input to modelling and analysis work. From the experience gained in several EU research projects, an improved design for a common Test Reference Environment (TRE) has been developed. This specific design of the PV module and TRE makes it possible to study, through electrical and thermal energy flow analysis, the effect on electrical performance of using different materials for PV modules and the construction design of claddings. The results for a glass–glass PV module with forced ventilation are presented.     

Parameters identification of photovoltaic solar cells and module using the genetic algorithm with convex combination crossover

To design a high-performance photovoltaic (PV) system, the parameters extraction of solar cell models is exceedingly crucial. A new variant of the genetic algorithm (GA) called Genetic Algorithm with Convex Combination Crossover (GACCC) is proposed to identify the unknown electrical parameters of different solar cell models, i.e. single diode, double diode, and PV module. GACCC is achieved by integrating a new crossover operation to maintain a good balance between the intensification of the best solutions and the diversification of the search space. To test the proposed GACCC, we have compared it to the basic GA and with other literature techniques. The results indicate a high performance of developed approach GACCC and a high accuracy of estimated parameters. In addition, the efficiency of the results is confirmed by the good agreement between the experimental I-V data and the simulated results in all cases.     

高铁建筑表皮与光伏一体化设计分析

目前高铁建筑表皮与光伏一体化设计在形态上过于单一,限制了高铁建筑形式表达和更大生态节能效益的实现。基于对高铁建筑形态特征的分析,和对当前光伏组件性能的总结,探讨了在高铁建筑屋面、立面和构件系统中,创新光伏组件类型选择和集成模式的可行性。发现：①通过优化光伏组件类型的选择,可以将光伏组件转变成高铁建筑形式表达的积极要素;②随着光伏组件性能的提升,相关集成设计可以突破当前集中于屋面系统的现状,拓展到高铁立面、构件系统中。研究为进一步丰富高铁建筑表皮形式,扩大建筑光伏一体化应用规模提供了依据。     

基于水力模型优化污水泵站的启停水位

泵站是排水系统输水过程中的重要环节,对泵站启停水位的优化研究可提高排水管网对水量的调蓄能力,同时提高水泵的使用效率。以典型工业聚集区H镇为例,采用InfoWorks ICM构建该镇排水管网模型,利用两座泵站的实测数据进行率定和校核,并选用纳什效率系数和百分标准偏差评价模拟结果与监测点实测数据的吻合度,结果表明模型与H镇污水管网实际情况基本相符。在可信模型的基础上,根据对H镇运南、镇北和C北泵站现状运行情况的分析,提出各泵站启停水位的改进方案,采用模型对方案进行模拟,最终得到最优方案:运南泵站开启水位为-2. 40m,闭水水位不高于-5. 99 m;镇北泵站开启水位为-1. 30 m,闭水水位不高于-3. 96 m;C北泵站仍以现状水泵开停水位进行液位控制,为后续研究区域排水系统的优化运行提供了依据。     

Study of the performance of thermoelectric modules for use in active building envelopes

Active building envelope (ABE) systems are a new enclosure technology which integrate photovoltaic (PV) and thermoelectric (TE) technologies. In ABE systems, a PV system supplies electrical power to a TE heat-pump system, which can transfer heat in one direction or another depending on the direction of the current. Both the TE and PV systems are integrated into one enclosure surface. Hence, ABE systems have the ability to actively control the flow of heat across their surface when exposed to solar radiation. Applications for this technology include all types of enclosures that require cooling or heating, such as building enclosures. At this stage of our study, we are developing various ABE system prototypes by using commercially available PV and TE technologies. In this study, two types of commercial available TE modules are studied for their potential application in an ABE prototype window system. We have performed various experiments to determine the coefficient of performance for these TE modules when operating under different voltage regimes, and have tested different electrical connection diagrams. Based upon the measured data, and results based on the computational models of a TE system, the most suitable type of TE modules, the voltage and current, and the preferable connection diagrams are discussed.     

Thermal properties of boring core samples from the Kanto area,Japan: Development of predictive models for thermal conductivity and diffusivity

The subsurface of the Earth is facing evermore thermal impact due to global warming, urban heat islands, and the widespread use of ground source heat pump (GSHP) systems. This potentially causes changes in its physical, mechanical, microbiological, and chemical properties, and in the subsurface water quality. To predict and evaluate this thermal impact (or thermal pollution), a better understanding and improved models for the thermal properties governing heat transport in subsurface sediments are needed. Also, data acquisition in high spatial resolution for the thermal properties and basic physical properties of the subsurface sediments are essential. In this study, the main thermal properties (the thermal conductivity, heat capacity, and thermal diffusivity) together with the basic physical properties (the soil texture, water content, and dry bulk density) were measured on boring core samples representing depths from 0 to 50 or 80 m, at three study sites in the Kanto area of Japan. Based on the measured data, models for thermal conductivity as functions of gravimetric water content, dry bulk density, and volumetric sand content were developed. The new models performed markedly better than presently available models from the literature and, in combination with a modified de Vries type model for heat capacity, the resulting model for thermal diffusivity was capable of describing the measured data well. The usefulness of the newly developed models were validated and illustrated by using data from a two-day thermal response test (TRT) performed at one of the three study sites. The new predictive models for the thermal properties used in a numerical heat transport simulation accurately predicted subsurface (5–50 m) temperature changes during the TRT.     

Development of a numerical model to predict heat exchange rates for a ground-source heat pump system

Ground-source heat pump (GSHP) systems can achieve a higher coefficient of performance than conventional air-source heat pump (ASHP) systems. For the design of a GSHP system, it is necessary to accurately predict the heat extraction and injection rates of the heat exchanger. Many models that combine ground heat conduction and heat exchangers have been proposed to predict heat extraction/injection rates from/into the ground in the research field of heating, ventilation and air-conditioning systems. However, most analysis models are inaccurate in their predictions for long periods because they are based on a thermal conduction model using a cylindrical coordinate model or an equivalent diameter model. In this paper, a numerical model that combines a heat transport model with ground water flow and a heat exchanger model with an exact shape is developed. Furthermore, a method for estimating soil properties based on ground investigations is proposed. Comparison between experimental results and numerical analysis based on the model developed above was conducted under the conditions of an experiment from 2004. The analytical results agreed well with the experimental results. Finally, the proposed model was used to predict the heat exchange rate for an actual office building in Japan.     

Water quality parameter estimation in a distribution system under dynamic state

Chlorine maintenance in distribution systems is an issue for water suppliers. The complex pipe geometry in distribution systems, the dynamic flow conditions experienced within them, and the varied nature of chlorine's reactivity make it difficult to predict chlorine levels throughout a water system. Computer-based mathematical models of water quality transport and fate within distribution systems offer a promising tool for predicting chlorine in a cost-effective manner. Nevertheless, the use of water quality models can only be effective and reliable when both hydraulics and the mechanisms of chlorine dissipation within the water system are properly defined. Bulk water decay can be measured experimentally. However, wall reaction rates are more complex to determine and must be deduced from field measurement by comparison with simulation results. The simulation-optimization model presented in this paper provides an effective tool to simplify the chlorine decay model calibration process that is often tedious. The optimization tool is based on the weighted-least-squares method solved by Gauss-Newton technique. Application of the model onto a real-life system shows that quantity, quality and location of measurement nodes play an important role in estimation of parameters.     

Self-tuning dynamic models of HVAC system components

A great majority of modern buildings are equipped with Energy Management and Control Systems (EMCS) which monitor and collect operating data from different components of heating ventilating and air conditioning (HVAC) systems. Models derived and tuned by using the collected data can be incorporated into the EMCS for online prediction of the system performance. To that end, HVAC component models with self-tuning parameters were developed and validated in this paper. The model parameters were tuned online by using a genetic algorithm which minimizes the error between measured and estimated performance data. The developed models included: a zone temperature model, return air enthalpy/humidity and CO₂ concentration models, a cooling and heating coil model, and a fan model. The study also includes tools for estimating the thermal and ventilation loads. The models were validated against real data gathered from an existing HVAC system. The validation results show that the component models augmented with an online parameter tuner, significantly improved the accuracy of predicted outputs. The use of such models offers several advantages such as designing better real-time control, optimization of overall system performance, and online fault detection.     

Experimental and numerical investigation on the performance of amorphous silicon photovoltaics window in East China

Experiments in a comparable hot-box have been carried out for the study of the thermal performance and power generation of a double-glazing window system integrated with amorphous silicon (a-Si) photovoltaic (PV) cells in Hefei, east region of China. Compared to PV single-glazing window, the indoor heat gain of PV double-glazing window is reduced to 46.5% based on experiment data. The electric efficiencies are both about 3.65% with packing factor 0.8 of PV single-glazing window and PV double-glazing window. The numerical simulation with computational fluid dynamics (CFD) method has been performed for the prediction of air flow and thermal performance of PV double-glass window. The temperature distribution and thermal performance predicted by the CFD model are in good agreement with the experimental data. Compared between the experimental and numerical results, temperature differences of PV modules are only 1.7% and 1.1% for PV double-glazing and PV single-glazing window, respectively. Because of the much lower inner surface temperature of PV double-glazing window compared with that of PV single-glazing window, the predicted mean vote (PMV) of the office work stage area with PV double-glazing window is well improved.     

Numerical simulation of ground heat and water transfer for groundwater heat pump system based on real-scale experiment

The groundwater heat pump (GWHP) system is an open-loop system that draws water from a well or surface water, passes it through a heat exchanger and discharges the water into an injection well or nearby river. By utilizing the relatively stable temperature of groundwater, GWHP system can achieve a higher coefficient of performance and can save more energy than conventional air-source heat pump (ASHP) system. The performance of the system depends on the condition of groundwater, especially temperature and depth, which affect performance of the heat pump and system. For the optimization of design and operation of GWHP systems, it is necessary to develop a simulation tool which can predict groundwater and heat flow and evaluate system performance comprehensively. In this research, 3D numerical heat-water transfer simulation and experiments utilizing real-scale equipment has been conducted in order to develop the optimization method for GWHP systems. Simulation results were compared with the experimental results, and the validity of the simulation model was confirmed. Furthermore, several case studies for the optimal operation method have been conducted by calculating the coefficient of performance on various groundwater and well conditions.     

Study on thermal performance of semi-transparent building-integrated photovoltaic glazings

This paper presents a one-dimensional transient heat transfer model, the Semi-transparent Photovoltaic module Heat Gain (SPVHG) model, for evaluating the heat gain of semi-transparent photovoltaic modules for building-integrated applications. The energy that is transmitted, absorbed and reflected in each element of the building-integrated photovoltaic (BIPV) modules such as solar cells and glass layers were considered in detail in the SPVHG model. Solar radiation model for inclined surface has been incorporated into the SPVHG model. The model is applicable to photovoltaic (PV) modules that have different orientations and inclinations. The annual total heat gain was evaluated by using the SPVHG model. The impacts of different parameters of the PV module were investigated. It was found that solar heat gain is the major component of the total heat gain. The area of solar cell in the PV module has significant effect on the total heat gain. However, the solar cell energy efficiency and the PV module's thickness have only a little influence on the total heat gain. The model was also validated by laboratory tests by using a calorimeter box apparatus and an adjustable solar simulator. The test results showed that the simulation model predicts the actual situation well.