Alternative Solar Cell Patterns for Light-Transmissive Photovoltaic Panels
Abstract
This paper focuses on emerging and alternative heterogeneous patterns for light-transmissive photovoltaic (LTPV) panels. It presents some architectural, parametric design proposals. Study Background With the kind of PV panels called 'light-through', translucency is achieved by spacing opaque solar cells, so that light can penetrate through the resulting gaps. Aim To improve the versatility of light-transmissive PV panels used for architectural integration into building skins (BIPV). Methodology First, the spacing of the solar cells in cell-strings can have more than one distance. Second, interconnection between neighbouring cell- strings doesn't require the cells to lie exactly side by side, an offset between cell-strings is possible. Innovation In combining the two parameters, tilted and wave-like solar cell patterns become possible. This enhances the options for individual designs, smoother pattern transition, and architectural integration of PV panels greatly. Parametric Patterns Clear parameters allow for parametric design to run through a whole series of design options and to quickly understand the impacts of changing the wall screening panels on levels of transparency, light transmission, number of photovoltaic solar cells and energy generation. Conclusion With the parametric approach 'W(e)AVE' a wide range of solar cell pattern variations akin to contemporary architectural design become possible.