| WO/2011/096841 | FACING ELEMENT |
| WO/1999/022087 | WALL FACING SYSTEM |
| WO/2009/088322 | MOULDED CONSTRUCTION PRODUCT, A METHOD FOR THE PRODUCTION THEREOF AND A COMPOSITE PRODUCT |
HERGÁR, Jenö (Balta köz 4, Budapest, H-1084, HU)
NAGY, Antal (Bíró Péter u. 4, Hajdúböszörmény, H-4220, HU)
HERGÁR, Jenö (Balta köz 4, Budapest, H-1084, HU)
| CLAIMS: 1. Covering or building element with solar cells fixed for the sunny sides of the buildings, the external surface of the said covering elements is shaped saw-tooth-like, the solar cells are fixed to the parts of the saw-tooth-like surface towards the solar radiation, the solar cells are electrically connected and join an energy utilizing system, characterized by that, the bearing structure of the solar cells (3) is a thermal insulator panel (2), or it is formed as a multilayer, integrated shell structure, that comprises an external shell (39) offering strength and aesthetical finish, furthermore heat-insulator and sound-proofing material in a structure of fiber, foam or granules, or in the form of encased air, mirror (42) is fixed to the saw-tooth-like surface opposite the solar cell (3), the solar cells (3) are of plane surface, or archy surface in perpendicular section to the plane of the covering element (1), or they are of archy and plane surface, there is at least one surface with a solar cell and one surface with a mirror formed on one covering element (1). 2. Covering element according to claim 1, characterized by that, the plane (40) connecting the internal and external edges of the solar cells (3) angles 30-60° with the horizontal plane, preferably depending on the place of application, the width of the bearing surface of the solar cells (3) is 15-420 mm. 3. Covering element according to claim 1 or 2, characterized by that the thermal insulator panel (2) is made of compact foamed plastic, preferably reed, thatch and polyurethane foam according to the Hungarian patent HU 184252. 4. Covering element according to claim 1 or 2, characterized by that, the material of the thermal insulator panel (2), or that of the shell (39) of the structure bearing the solar cells (3) is plastic, that can be extruded. 5. Covering element according to claim 1 or 2, characterized by that, the material of the thermal insulator panel (2), or that of the shell (39) of the structure bearing the solar cells (3) is curved plastic or metal sheet. 6. Covering element according to claim 1 or 2, characterized by that, the material of the thermal insulator panel (2), or that of the shell (39) of the structure bearing the solar cells (3) is gypsum. 7. Covering element according to any of claims 1-6, characterized by that, the solar cells (3) have transparent plastic covering (15), and they are snapped to the surface of the covering element (1) and fixed this way. 8. Covering element according to any of claims 1-6, characterized by that, the solar cells (3) are covered in a waterproof way by a transparent protective layer (4) of shrinkable plastic. 9. Covering element according to any of claims 1-6, characterized by that, the transparent protective layer (4) of the solar cells (3) is extruded or cast plastic sheet, possibly glass. 10. Covering element according to any of claims 1-6, characterized by that, plane glass (12) is placed in front of the covering elements (1). 11. Covering element according to any of claims 1-10, characterized by that, the upper edge of the thermal insulator panels (2) of the covering elements (1) is folded back, the lower edge is folded outwards. 12. Covering element according to any of claims 1-10, characterized by that, the lower edge of the thermal insulator panels (2) of the covering elements (1) is connected with overlapping to the one element below. 13. Covering element according to any of claims 1-3, characterized by that, the upper edge of the bolster (8) below the upper edge of the covering element (1) is of slanting formation downward, towards the wall (7). 14. Covering element according to claim 13, characterized by that, the thermal insulator panels (2) of the covering elements (1) are of staged formation close to the plane of the walls (7), and they are fixed to the wall (7) through an interposed bolster (8). 15. Covering element according to any of claims 1-6, characterized by that,th thermal insulator panels (2) of the covering elements (1) are connected to one another in a notched - bevelled way. 16. Covering element according to claim 1, characterized by that, the covering element (1) has a backwall (43) and is fixed to the supporting structure (41) of a building as a building element. 17. Covering element according to claim 1, characterized by that, that there are hinges (23) at the end of the saw-teeth of the thermal insulator panel (2), which are formed by thinning, or like hinges with bearing, provided with a driving mechanism (21) with servo motor following the direction of the incoming solar radiation (14), and there are sliders (22) fixed to the hinges (23) at the vertical and/or horizontal surfaces, which can move in a guiding (31) of "U" shape with an end folding back on the top, the guiding (31) is connected to the electric header (9). 18. Covering element according to any of claims 1-17, characterized by that, there is an insulating layer (32) between two stickings (29) below the solar cells (3). 19. Covering element according to any of claims 1-18, characterized by that, in the covering element (1) there is a battery (28) and a light source (27) connected to it electrically as a fault-indicator, or a decorating light. 20. Covering element according to any of claims 1-16 or 18-19, characterized by that the appropriate poles of the solar cells (3) are connected with parallel circuit into the collecting rail (11) or header (9) of + and - poles in the channel (17) formed at least at one edge of the covering element (1) or in the covering element (1) itself, (or connected to the header (9)), the collecting rails (ll)or the header (9) of the adjacent covering elements (1) are connected with the expansion element (30) establishing electrical connection, or connected with the connectors (36). 21. Covering element according to any of claims 1-16 or 18-20, characterized by that, there is a channel (17) with lid between the covering elements (1) for the electric header (9)· 22. Covering element according to claim 15, characterized by that, the electrical connection is formed between the notched-bevelled connection in such a way, that the rail (11) of positive and negative polarity is located on different levels of the notched- bevelled connection. 23. Covering element according to claim 1, characterized by that, each electric connection of the solar cells (3) of the covering elements (1) is established with insulated wires, interposed the switch box (34), the covering elements (1) are also connected with one another with waterproof connectors (36). 24. Covering element according to claim 1, characterized by that, for the collection of the electric energy produced by the solar cells (3), it has collecting rail (11) with + and - poles, or header (9) behind the covering element (1) fixed to the bolster (8), or to the supporting element (19), and one pole of the solar cells (3) of the covering element (1) is also electrically connected parallel with the help of the screw (10) serving a fixing purpose as well; the other pole is led to the back side of the covering element (1) and connected to the collecting rail (11) of appropriate polarity. 25. Covering element according to claim 24, characterized by that, the header (9) is an insulated, flat copper wire. |
sunny sides of the buildings
The subject of the invention is covering or building element with solar cells fixed for the sunny sides of the buildings, which can be fixed to the sunny vertical sides of buildings, frame structures, and/or to the flat top of those and have current-generating solar cells mainly perpendicular to the direction of the incoming solar radiation. The bearer of the solar cells can be an element with ability of heat-, water-, and windinsulating, as well sound-reducing capacity. The covering element can be an integrated one with shell structure. In given case the (intelligent) covering of the surfaces of the buildings can be realized as well, because following automatically the direction of the incoming solar radiation can be solved as well. The buildings with poor insulation covering, primarily the pre-fabricated panel buildings can be provided with effective insulation posteriorly, producing at the same time electricity in an explicitly environmentally friendly way.
The DE 3247469 German patent publication describes such solar cell glass tiles, suitable for roof covering, which are provided with multi-layer solar panels, with flat solar panels on the uncovered places and below them there is an air space formed, cooling the solar panel on the bottom of the tile.
The DE 3626450 German patent publication also makes known a glass tile with solar cell, but with this solution the glass tile is not flat, but of partly archy surface, so an extremely thin 0.05-1 micrometer amorphous silicium layer is put on it. Their common drawback is, that they can be used on buildings with one-pitch-roof only.
Obviously there are known batteries utilizing solar energy, containing extensive solar collectors fixed stably on frame structures placed nearly perpendicularly to the direction of incoming solar radiation, but there are also solutions where the direction of the Sun is followed. Its drawback is, that it is not possible to install such structures to buildings and these batteries have no insulating function either.
There are such solutions as well, where the solar panels are fixed onto the sunny side walls of the buildings, onto a fixed support frame in great size. Such building can be found eg.: on Mafete island belonging to Renunion archipelago (Internet). The disadvantage of this solution is, that the solar cell board significantly protrudes from the wall of the building, having no insulating property.
It is well known, that buildings with poor insulation have considerable heat loss, therefore their posterior heat insulation is highly recommended. Panels for insulation can be made even from waste, such as eg.: on basis of the Hungarian patent HU 184252 describing production of insulating material from reed, thatch and polyurethane foam.
The JP 63067788 Japanese patent publication document relates to the energy supply with solar cell covering of a small size, box-like equipment - presumably a refrigerator. The essence of the solution is, that there are saw-tooth-like support panels formed on the sunny sides of the box. The solar panels are fixed to the parts of the box towards the Sun, and the plates of the support panel are fixed in an angle to the rays of the sun, determined in advance. There are openings beside the solar cell of the saw-tooth-like support panel, on the shady plates, through which the air, flowing between the support panel and the box at a certain distance, has a cooling effect. The support panel is fixed to the box by rods placed at the edges. On the top of the box the solar panel is placed in two types of formation: saw-tooth-like, or tent-like. In case of a tent-like arrangement there are solar panels on both sides. Normal shading plates are placed along the other sides of the box at a certain distance to ensure cooling air-flow.
The drawback, and at the same time the advantage of the solution is the cooling effect ensuring the cooling of the external surface of the refrigerator by a constant air current, decreasing by it the energy consumption of the equipment. Such a solution is explicitly detrimental in case of big buildings in wintertime. Fastening of support panels is only possible to boxes of small size with the solution described. Placement of solar panels does not ensure suitable energy supply in every season and every time of the day.
The JP 8260639 patent description describes a solar panel, that can be built into a roof structure as a self-contained unit in a waterproof way. The essence of the solution is, that the solar panels are fixed to an insulating layer of plastic foam in a reinforced frame, or to bricks of fibrous or coarse nature. The asphaltic roofing board, or metal board, placed between the solar panel and the insulating layer ensures, that the solar panel is waterproof. There is another metal sheet below the insulating layer having an insulating coating to resist a possible fire in the building. The waterproof solar panel described above can not be used as covering element on the facade of buildings, and the description does not go into details regarding forming the insulating material profile. It is not possible to fix mirrors producing energy.
The CA 2480366 Canadian patent description refers to connecting solar cell building elements. The essence of the invention is, that the building element is a panel of rectangle square shape, on one side of which solar panels are placed on the plane. The solar panels in panes are connected with one another in a parallel connection through a connector that can be plugged up, and they are connected to the electric network through header. One of the elements of the connection is a protruding plug, the other element is a receiving socket. The panel can be primarily applied as a roof element, in overlapping, but it can also be used as a frontal element fixed next to one another, similarly to the roof element. The panels are fixed to the supporting laths through screws, or nails, or clamps.
The drawback is, that the solar panels can not stand in the ideal angle applied as frontal elements, so the electric energy produced is considerably decreased. They do not provide the building with thermal insulation. It is not possible to install energy- producing mirrors.
The US 2001/0023702 patent publication document is about the production of electricity in each time of the day, of solar panel strips of series connection, fixed to archy roof tiles placed perpendicularly to the sloping of slanting roofs with southern orientation. The survey was carried out relating to the solar panel strips placed perpendicularly and parallel to the archy surface.
There is no guiding about the solar panels of flat, archy, and archy-and-flat- surface, formed in the direction of the slanting. In case of roofs mirrors producing energy can not be fixed on the roof.
When working out the solution according to the invention we aimed to create covering or building element with solar cells that can partly insulate the building, do not considerably protrude from the plane of the wall, partly they can produce the maximum quantity of electricity in each season and in each time of the day. The invention is a covering or building element with solar cells fixed for the sunny sides of the buildings, the external surface of the said covering elements is shaped saw-toothlike, the solar cells are fixed to the parts of the saw-tooth-like surface towards the solar radiation, the solar cells are electrically connected and join an energy utilizing system. It is characterized by that, the bearing structure of the solar cells is a thermal insulator panel, or it is formed as a multilayer, integrated shell structure, that comprises an external shell offering strength and aesthetical finish, furthermore heat-insulator and sound-proofing material in a structure of fiber, foam or granules, or in the form of encased air, mirror is fixed to the saw-tooth-like surface opposite the solar cell, the solar cells are of plane surface, or archy surface in perpendicular section to the plane of the covering element, or they are of archy and plane surface, there is at least one surface with a solar cell and one surface with a mirror formed on one covering element.
In a preferred embodiment of the solution according to the invention, the plane connecting the internal and external edges of the solar cells angles 30-60° with the horizontal plane, preferably depending on the place of application, the width of the bearing surface of the solar cells is 15-420 mm.
In another preferred embodiment of the solution according to the invention, the thermal insulator panel is made of compact foamed plastic, preferably reed, thatch and polyurethane foam according to the Hungarian patent HU 184252.
In a further preferred embodiment of the solution according to the invention, the material of the thermal insulator panel, or that of the shell of the structure bearing the solar cells is plastic, that can be extruded.
In a further preferred embodiment of the solution according to the invention, the material of the thermal insulator panel, or that of the shell of the structure bearing the solar cells is curved plastic or metal sheet.
In a further preferred embodiment of the solution according to the invention, the material of the thermal insulator panel, or that of the shell of the structure bearing the solar cells is gypsum.
In a further preferred embodiment of the solution according to the invention, the solar cells have transparent plastic covering, and they are snapped to the surface of the covering element and fixed this way.
In a further preferred embodiment of the solution according to the invention, the solar cells are covered in a waterproof way by a transparent protective layer of shrinkable plastic.
In a further preferred embodiment of the solution according to the invention, the transparent protective layer of the solar cells is extruded or cast plastic sheet, possibly glass.
In a further preferred embodiment of the solution according to the invention, plane glass is placed in front of the covering elements.
In a further preferred embodiment of the solution according to the invention, the upper edge of the thermal insulator panels of the covering elements is folded back, the lower edge is folded outwards.
In a further preferred embodiment of the solution according to the invention, the lower edge of the thermal insulator panels of the covering elements is connected with overlapping to the one element below.
In a further preferred embodiment of the solution according to the invention, the upper edge of the bolster below the upper edge of the covering element is of slanting formation downward, towards the wall.
In a further preferred embodiment of the solution according to the invention, the thermal insulator panels of the covering elements are of staged formation close to the plane of the walls, and they are fixed to the wall through an interposed bolster.
In a further preferred embodiment of the solution according to the invention, the thermal insulator panels of the covering elements are connected to one another in a notched - bevelled way.
In a further preferred embodiment of the solution according to the invention, the covering element has a backwall and is fixed to the supporting structure of a building as a building element. In a further preferred embodiment of the solution according to the invention, that there are hinges at the end of the saw-teeth of the thermal insulator panel, which are formed by thinning, or like hinges with bearing, provided with a driving mechanism with servo motor following the direction of the incoming solar radiation, and there are sliders fixed to the hinges at the vertical and/or horizontal surfaces, which can move in a guiding of "U" shape with an end folding back on the top, the guiding is connected to the electric header.
In a further preferred embodiment of the solution according to the invention, there is an insulating layer between two stickings below the solar cells.
In a further preferred embodiment of the solution according to the invention, in the covering element there is a battery and a light source connected to it electrically as a fault-indicator, or a decorating light.
In a further preferred embodiment of the solution according to the invention, the appropriate poles of the solar cells are connected with parallel circuit into the collecting rail or header of + and - poles in the channel formed at least at one edge of the covering element or in the covering element itself, or connected to the header, the collecting rails or the header of the adjacent covering elements are connected with the expansion element establishing electrical connection, or connected with the connectors.
In a further preferred embodiment of the solution according to the invention, there is a channel with lid between the covering elements for the electric header.
In a further preferred embodiment of the solution according to the invention, the electrical connection is formed between the notched-bevelled connection in such a way, that the rail of positive and negative polarity is located on different levels of the notched-bevelled connection.
In a further preferred embodiment of the solution according to the invention, each electric connection of the solar cells of the covering elements is established with insulated wires, interposed the switch box, the covering elements are also connected with one another with waterproof connectors.
In a further preferred embodiment of the solution according to the invention, for the collection of the electric energy produced by trie solar cells, it has collecting rail with + and - poles, or header behind the covering element fixed to the bolster, or to the supporting element, and one pole of the solar cells of the covering element is also electrically connected parallel with the help of the screw serving a fixing purpose as well; the other pole is led to the back side of the covering element and connected to the collecting rail of appropriate polarity.
In a further preferred embodiment of the solution according to the invention, the header is an insulated, flat copper wire.
The invention is furthermore set forth in detail with the help of the attached figures: The Fig 1 shows the incoming solar radiation conditions in winter and summer for a solar cell according to the invention, provided with mirrors, placed in the 45-50° angle common in Hungary.
The Fig 2 shows the incoming solar radiation conditions in winter and summer for a solar cell placed in 30-35° angle according to the invention, provided with mirrors. The Fig 3 shows the section of the covering- or building element made of thermal insulating material, according to the invention, with a sleeper fastening fixing, with a snap covering.
The Fig 4 shows another embodiement of the fixing of the covering element according to the invention with a bolster that can be hooked up.
The Fig 5 shows one version of the electric connection of the covering element according to the invention in partial section.
The Fig 6 shows the section of the covering element made of thermally insulating material according to the invention, with fixing by sticking, with a plane glass selvage. The Fig 6/a shows the enlargement of the layering of the fixing method combined with thermal insulation of the solar cell according to the invention.
The Fig 7 shows the realization of the covering element according to the invention with a snap covering in perspective view, with electric header.
The Fig 8 shows another realization of the covering element according to the invention with a snap covering, in perspective view.
The Fig 9 shows an embodiment of the covering element according to the invention supporting snap solar cells, in section.
The Fig 10 shows a version of the covering element according to the invention made of metal sheet, in section.
The Fig 11 shows the covering element according to the invention made of plastic, in an adjustable embodiment, in section.
The Fig 12 shows the covering element according to the invention made of gypsum, in section.
The Fig 13 shows one version of the covering element according to the invention made of metal or plastic with sandwich-type structure filled with foam, in section.
The Fig 14 shows another version of the covering element according to the invention made of metal or plastic with sandwich-type structure filled with foam, in section.
The Fig 15 shows the covering element with multilayer, shell-like finish provided with solar cells placed in an arch.
The Fig 16 shows the covering- or building element with multilayer, shell-like finish provided with solar cells placed in a convex arch, as well as with mirrors in a finish suitable for fixing them to the supporting structure of a building.
The Fig 17 shows the covering or building element with multilayer, shell-like finish provided with solar cells placed in a concave arch suitable for fixing them to the supporting structure of a building.
The Fig 18 shows the covering element with multilayer, shell -like finish provided with archy and plane solar cells and electric connection.
The Fig 19 shows a possible realization of the electric connection : of the covering elements, in view.
The Fig 20 shows another possible realization of the electric connection of the solar cells, in back view.
The Fig 21 shows a third possible realization of the electric connection of the solar cells, in section.
The Fig 22 shows an embodiment of the header as a rail, in perspective.
The Fig 23 shows a possible connection between the covering elements and the rail, in partial section.
The Fig 24 shows another possible electrical connection of the solar cells, in view.
The Fig 25 shows the other embodiment of the header as rail, in perspective.
The Fig 26 shows the other possible connection solution of the notched-bevelled covering elements and the rail, in partial section.
The Fig 27 shows the third possible connection solution of the notched-bevelled covering elements and the rail, in partial section.
The Fig 28 shows the detail of the fixing of the covering elements by supporting element, and detail of the electric connection, in partial section.
The Fig 1 shows the incoming solar radiation conditions in winter and summer for a solar cell according to the invention, provided with mirrors, placed in the 45-50° angle common in Hungary. It is well known, that the energy production of solar cells 3 depends greatly on the angle between the direction of incoming solar radiation 14 and the plane of the solar cell. Energy production can show a difference of even 30% in case of the same direction of incoming solar radiation 14. Resulting from this a number of small magnifying glasses are frequently used for projecting the solar rays from every direction to the solar cell 3, or the solar cell 3 is moved to the ideal direction. However also quite good results can be achieved, when you calculate a weighted average of the angle a of approach of the given area, and use an angle β for the solar cell perpendicular to the angle a of approach. It still gives better results, than in case of tiles with solar cells fixed to the existing roofs, as the angle of inclination of the roofs has not been determined from the point of view of solar energy production.
On basis of the longitudinal and latitudinal data of Hungary the angle of approach a of the direction of incoming solar radiation 14 changes between 19.49 degrees (December) T winter and 66.4 degrees (June) Ny summer. The energy data of solar radiation in Hungary are eg.: in December 36,956 Wh/m 2 .month, in July 173,454 Wh/m 2 .month (data from 2006), that is the summer energy is four-five times more than that of the winter, so it is especially important to utilize efficiently the solar radiation in winter.
The setting angle of free-standing solar cells is determined on basis of the weighted value, namely the angles of approach a of months bringing more energy are taken into consideration to a greater extent. In Hungary the weighted average angle of approach a is 50° on basis of the monthly incoming solar radiation energy and the relevant angle of approach a. The plane of the covering element 1 provided with solar cell 3 to be placed on the vertical wall 7 is in Hungary generally 50° to the main plane of the covering element 1 (for simplicity's sake furthermore the denomination covering element 1 is used instead of the denomination of covering- or building element). The plane of the solar cell to be placed on the roof is preferably β=40° with the horizontal the main plane of the covering element 1. In Hungary angle 45° either on roofs, or on side surfaces can be applied, and the results are quite good. The direction of incoming solar radiation 14 changes in every season, even daily, therefore a mirror 42 fixed to the surface opposite the solar cells 3 improves efficiency considerably, as radiation approaching in small angles, can be utilized as well. At the same time it also improves the aesthetic appearance of the covering element 1. When "mirror" is mentioned, we mean every surface with light reflecting characteristics. It can be well seen in the figure, that in case of 40-45° angle, the x sun-radiated surface does not reach the whole surface of the solar cell 3 in summer, and in winter the direction of incoming solar radiation 14 reaching directly the solar cell 3 is not advantageous enough.
The Fig 2 shows the incoming solar radiation conditions in winter and summer for a solar cell placed in 30-35° angle according to the invention, provided with mirrors 42. In case of a realization of the solution with mirrors 42 according to the invention, the plane of the solar cell 3 is determined in such a way, that the reflected sun radiation was taken into consideration too. This way it can be achieved, that the direction of incoming solar radiation 14 can be well utilized between 19.49 degrees (December) T winter and 66.4 degrees (June) Ny summer, and the winter energy acquisition can even be multiplied. According to our set aim the solar cell 3 combined with mirror 42 offers solution to the utilization of the building surfaces of not entirely southern orientation, as orientation of existing buildings can not be changed. This case also good results can be achieved by surfaces with mirrors 42 next to the surface provided with solar cell 3, as in such case at least one part of the solar radiation approaching in small angle, particularly in the mornings or in the evenings is projected onto the solar cell 3 by the mirror 42.
The Fig 3 shows the section of the covering element 1 made of thermal insulating material, according to the invention, with a bolster 8 sleeper fastening fixing. The most important part of the covering element 1 is the thermal insulator panel 2, and the solar cell 3 fixed on its surface towards the direction of the Sun, as well as the mirror 42 placed adjacently on the shady part. The thermal insulator panel 2 is a formed polyurethane foam material in this figure, which has a compact part of a certain layer thickness, and several planes protruding saw-tooth-like.
The solar cells 3 are connected with one another through wire 5 or foil and are connected to the electric connecting elements 6 formed on the thermal insulator panel 2. With the help of these electric connecting elements 6 formed here ring-like, each covering element 1 can be connected to an electric collector system (see also the Fig 5).
It is preferable to protect the solar cells 3 from contamination with a plastic covering 15. In case of our example, it is a transparent polypropylene material deep-drawn to a shape known in application of packaging of various equipment, that can be snapped on to the thermal insulator panel 2. On top the plastic covering 15 leans downward slantwise from the wall 7 and its rim penetrates below the edge of the thermal insulator panel 2. The other end is shorter, so this forming prevents the rain to get behind the covering element 1.
The solar cells 3 according to the invention are placed below one another in such a way, that the external edge 24 of the surface supporting the solar cell 3, and the internal edge 25 of the solar cell 3 below it fall into a projection plane 26, which is perpendicular to the plane of the solar cell 3, or deflects from it maximum +/- 20 mm. By this solution the plane surface turned totally towards the solar radiation covered by solar cells 3 can reach even 70% of the vertical wall surface. Consequently, if a vertical wall surface of 100 m 2 is covered by such covering element 1, then a useful surface of 70 m 2 utilizing solar energy can be gained. It means, that a sidewall of southern orientation of a ten- storey pre-fabricated building is appr. 12x30 m = 360 m 2 , which means 252 m 2 useful energy producing surface. At the same time roofs so far not utilized, can be provided with such covering elements 1, resulting in approximately the same area surface.
Any solar cell 3 is suitable for the purpose of the invention. The maximum achievable efficiency of the three basic solar cells 3 of the known solar cells 3 is as follows:
Monocrystalline solar cell: 15 - 17%
Multicrystalline solar cell: 13 - 15%
Amorphous solar cell: 5 - 8%
(The data refer to Si silicon solar cells.)
The covering element 1 can be fastened to the wall 7 with any of the known technologies.
The solar cell 3 should be preferably fixed with this realization to the thermal insulator panel 2 by sticking.
The backwall of the thermal insulator panel 2 with this realization is of plane surface, usually bolsters 8 are used for the fastening. However the bolsters 8 should be provided with header 9, which are preferably thin, insulated copper sheet strips, where the poles of the solar cells 3 of the covering element 1 can be connected with the help of screws 10. Obviously each covering element 1 needs at least two such screws 10. In case of covering elements 1 of bigger size, additional screws 10 might be needed, but these are not connected to the electric header 9.
The Fig 4 shows another embodiment of the fixing of the covering element 1 according to the invention. In this embodiment the backside of the thermal insulator panel 2 is of staged finish. It results in the simplicity of hooking up on the bolster 8 with properly slanting upper edge, so fixing is easier. It has to be highlighted, that the upper edge of the thermal insulator panel 2 rises slanting towards the wall 7 of the building in order to avoid rain getting between the thermal insulator panel 2 and the wall 7. Resulting from the same reason the lower edge of the upward next covering element 1 is parallel with it, so the covering elements 1 above one another are in overlapping. The size of the surface supporting the solar cell 3 is primarily determined by aesthetic considerations. There are a lot of buildings (historic monuments) where it is not possible to alter the outside, so here the possible smallest protrusion is recommended, so solar cells 3 stuck to a carrier surface of 15 mm width should be applied.
The Fig 5 shows the electric connection of the covering element according to the invention in partial section. Here dashed lines show the wire 5 or foil ensuring electric connection, stuck to the thermal insulator panel 2 or impressed into the dent formed in it. The electric connecting element 6 is preferably a ring with a metallic connection, screw 10 to the + or - pole wire of the insulated electric header 9. It can be seen in this figure, that the covering element 1 according to the invention can be provided with a battery 28 of low capacity, and a light source 27 can be connected to it. It has the great advantage, that a possible panel failure can be displayed by the socalled "profibus" connection. In another type of connection the wall surface is lighted during the night, so it is very attractive. The location is only symbolical, obviously it can be formed anywhere protruding the external plane of the covering element 1.
The Fig 6 shows the section of another embodiment of the invention. Here the thermal insulator panel 2 is fitted completely to the wall 7, so it can be fixed by sticking 29. In case of this version another type of solar cell 3 protection is introduced as well. Here a transparent protective layer 4 protects the stuck solar cells 3 and mirrors 42 from contamination, shrunk onto the whole thermal insulator panel 2. Here also another type of electric connecting element 6 is shown, formed on the rim of the thermal insulator panel 2 parallel with the plane of the wall, and it can be either connected to the next thermal insulator panel 2, or to the electric header 9 in a channel 17 with a lid. In case of this version another solution for the protection from contamination was drawn, which is a plane glass 12 also lending a nice aesthetical appearance to the covering panel 1. The plane glass 12 can be fixed with traditional fasteners, holders, that have to be placed practically at the fittings of the thermal insulator panels 2, which are cut on those places. The solar cells 3 can get heated in extreme cases to such an extent, which is harmful for the material of the thermal insulator panel 2, therefore the Fig 6/a shows a multilayer formation, where below the solar cell 3 an insulating layer 32 is placed between the two s tickings 29.
The Figs 7 and 8 show the covering element 1 according to the invention in perspective view, in two different versions. One of the versions shows a natural stone imitation with the electric header 9 formed behind. The other one shows a long finish, that can be extended. The auxiliary strip 16 can be a soft plastic band of "H" shape, ensuring sealed connection for the plastic covering 15. In the Fig 7 it can be seen that a half-long covering element 1 can be also part of the covering system. Here it can be also seen the solution of the locating of the header 9 in such a way, that they are in a channel 17 with a lid. A whole array of covering elements 1 can be connected with the help of the header 9 to equipment utilizing energy. A preferable way of utilizing energy is not filling batteries, but using inverters. The inverter changes the direct current of the solar cell to alternating current and feeds it back to the network. Feeding back takes naturally place synchronized with the period of the network. The electricity produced this way is bought by a central current supply service provider by placing a special, socalled BUY- SELL meter measuring the used and produced electricity and invoices the difference only.
The Fig 9 shows an embodiment of the thermal insulator panels 2 holding the solar cells 3 with snap in section. In case of this realization such a shape is shown, where the thermal insulator panel 2 of the covering element 1 is extruded with profile, is made of plastic forming a close hollow towards the wall 7 and thermal insulation is ensured by the air in the hollow. The solar cells 3 here are compact units, framed, covered with transparent (plastic or glass) layer, that can be snapped into the recess formed properly in the thermal insulator panel 2. The mirrors 42 can be fixed by sticking. It must be made sure, the the slanting plane of the solar cell is always staged outward from the wall 7, to let contamination or snow slip down. In this realization plastic supporting elements 19 are used instead of the bolsters 8 for fixing. Two versions of the supporting elements 19 are used here.
A supporting element 19 of lengthened "Z" shape is used for fixing the uppermost covering element 1 by hanging, one of the electric headers 9 of the solar cells 3 is placed at the upper end. Through an electric connecting element 6, which can be here a naked wire-end as well, one of the electric wires of the solar cells 3 fixed on the side of the covering element 1 towards the wall 7 is connected to the electric header 9. The lower part of the covering element 1 is fixed in a combined supporting element 19, which partly holds the lower part of the covering element 1 above, and the insulated electric header 9 and screws 10 fixed on it ensure electric connection, partly the lower side of this supporting element 19 is formed folding back upwards, so it fixes the upper part of the covering element 1 below by hanging, the way described above. Installing the covering elements 1 take place from below upwards in a simple way. Obviously this covering element 1 can be made of drawn aluminium too.
The Fig 10 shows a version of the covering element 1 according to the invention made of metal, in section, where the solar cells 3 and the mirrors 42 are fixed onto a metal thermal insulator panel 2 by sticking. No specific protecting layer was mentioned here, because there are solar cells 3 available with such protecting layer. In this formation the element is made from a plane sheet, corrugated saw-tooth-like. The solar cells 3 are stuck on the surfaces facing the Sun, and the mirrors 42 are on the shady sides. The edges of the thermal insulator panels 2 are fixed by overlapping in such a way, that the lower edge of the upper thermal insulator panel 2 is outside, and the edge of the thermal insulator panel 2 below is towards the wall 7. In this realization the pre -fabricated covering elements 1 are connected with one another with auxiliary strips 16 of "H" profile with tight joint. The covering element 1 can be provided subsequently with filling 33 of heat-insulating property.
The Fig 11 shows the covering element 1 according to the invention made of plastic, in an adjustable embodiment, in section. This version is recommended for covering elements 1 formed in smaller patches, in islands. Here at the ends of the saw-teeth of the plastic thermal insulator panel 2 in one version hinges 23 are formed by thinning. There are sliders 22 fixed to the hinges 23 toward the wall 7, that can move in a guiding 31 of "U" shape with an end folding back on the upper side. Moving is made by a driving mechanism 21 following the direction of the solar radiation. The shape of the moved covering element 1 is shown by a thin dashed line in the figure. The hinges 23 can be formed as bearing hinges as well, operated by a driving mechanism 21 with servo motor to follow solar radiation direction. Guiding 31 is connected to the electric header 9.
The Fig 12 shows the covering element 1 according to the invention made of gypsum, in section. This version can be used on traditional buildings. Essentially it is very similar to the versions described so far, but an important characteristic is, that the free surfaces can be painted any optional colors. Covering elements 1 of natural stone imitation can be formed from this version. The edges joining one another of this covering element 1 can be made either horizontally, or slanting as mentioned above. In order to prevent rain to penetrate between the covering elements 1 it is preferable to put sealing 13 there. It is also preferable to fix these covering elements 1 on bolsters 8 with electric header 9 on them. The place of connection of electric header 9 is corrugated to ensure safe fitting of electric connecting elements 6 on the thermal insulator panel 2 made of gypsum, where the back surface might not be quite smooth. The thermal insulator panels 2 can be fixed by screws 10, or nails along the fittings. Here the bolsters 8 are shaped in two versions as well, in such a way that there is only one electric header 9 on the uppermost one, whereas there are two electric headers 9 on the ones in between. Here the electric header 9 is not an insulated copper strip. Due to aesthetical consideration a gypsum end element 20 is preferably put above the uppermost covering element 1. The Fig 13 shows one version of the covering element 1 according to the invention made of metal or plastic with sandwich-type structure filled with foam, in section. In this version the covering element 1 is typically made of multilayers, comprises a shell 39 offering strength and aesthetics, furthermore a filling 33 fixed behind the shell by sticking, polymerization, or by cement bonding in fiber, foam or porous (granule-like) structure. The filling 33 shown as solution in the figure is placed at the production of the covering element 1 in a way that it is notched-bevelled formation. Connecting the solar cells 3 electrically can be made according to Figs 25, 26, 27 to be described later. This embodiment can be fixed to the wall 7 by sticking 29. Beside solar cells 3 here it is also recommended the use of mirrors 42.
The Fig 14 shows another version of the covering element 1 according to the invention made of metal or plastic with sandwich-type structure filled with foam, in section. In case of this version the edges of the shell 39 towards the wall 7 are of plane formation. The electric connection of the solar cells 3 can take place according to the Fig 20 to be described later. This version can be fixed to the wall 7 by sticking 29 as well.
The Fig 15 shows the covering element 1 with multilayer, shell-like finish provided with plane mirrors 42 and solar cells 3 placed in an arch. The solar cells 3 can be placed arched too, especially due to the abovementioned reason. The luminosity of solar radiation changes during daytime as well, so it justifies, that the solar cells 3 are placed in sections of parabola or hyperbola forms. In such a case there is always a solar cell surface having a beneficial angle opposite the direction of solar radiation 14 approaching in a small angle. The solar cell 3 is placed in such a way, that the plane 40 connecting its edges should be perpendicular to the average direction of incoming solar radiation 14 of the given geographical location. The shell 39 has an inside filling 33 of thermal insulating and sound-proofing properties. The version seen in the figure can be fixed by sticking 29. The recommended version for the electrical connection is according to the Fig 20.
The Fig 16 shows the covering element 1 with multilayer, shell-like finish provided with solar cells 3 placed in a convex arch, as well as with mirrors 42. This solution is applied on places, where the angle of the solar radiation is small, so efficiency can be improved by using mirrors 42 as well. This covering element 1 can be fixed to the supporting structure 41 of a building as an independent building element.
The Fig 17 shows the covering element 1 with multilayer, shell-like finish provided with mirrors 42 and solar cells 3 placed in an arch suitable for fixing them to the supporting structure 41 of a building. In case of this version also the previous considerations are respected, but here the solar cells 3 are depicted with archy finish, which is recommended due to its easy formation. In case of this solution the filling 33 is closed by a backwall 43, so this covering element 1 can be used as a building element and can be fixed to such a supporting structure 41, that can be eg. the frame structure of a hall. The recommended version for the electrical connection is also according to the Fig 23. The size of the surface bearing the solar cell 3 is determined in given case by the size of the covering system applied already on the other sides of the building. There is such a covering system with metal sheets, where the size of the module requires a bearing surface of 420 mm width for the stuck solar cells 3.
The Fig 18 shows the covering element 1 with multilayer, shell-like finish provided with archy and plane solar cells and electric connection. Similar considerations were considered when working out this version too, but we endeavoured here to ensure, that the solar radiation approaching in small angle, eg. the solar radiation in the afternoon, can produce more energy, complying with the energy consumption peak better. Resulting from this on top the solar cells 3 are of plane surface. The shell 39 is provided with filling 33 of heat- and sound-proofing properties as well. Fixing of this version to the wall 7 takes place through a supporting structure 41 similar to the snap fastener solution used in case of buildings with metal sheet covering. The recommended version for the electrical connection is also according to the Fig 20, so we indicated such version, but with connectors 36 of other direction.
The Fig 19 shows a possible realization of the electric connection of the covering elements 1 in view. Here solar cells 3 providing 12 V direct current are used with the covering element 1 so the voltage does not change when connected parallel. In case of this embodiment the headers 9 are formed in positive, resp. negative pole rail 11 form. Here the rails 11 are placed perpendicular to the solar cells 3 advancing in height direction. The rails are similar to the rail of a curtain clasp, there is a lengthwise gap in the middle, where the electric connecting elements 6 of the solar cells 3 can be connected by impression. The great advantage of the solution is, that the covering elements 1 can be shortened in height direction on the site, because the extension of the rail 11 by an expansion element 30 can be easily solved, and possible faults can be repaired from the outside (see thr Fig 23 as well).
The Fig 20 shows another possible realization of the electric connection of the solar cells 3 in back view. In case of this version every electric connection takes place through insulated wires interposing a switch box 34. Wiring takes place completely in the factory. This solution is explicitly suitable for the filling with insulating layer 32. The header 9 can be connected with waterproof connectors 36.
The Fig 21 shows a possible realization of the electric connection of the solar cells in section. In case of this version the rails 11 can be placed in the channels 17 with lids formed in the thermal insulator panel 2, and can be fixed with the extensions 37 protruding from the side of the rails 11. The lid 35 can be stuck in order to achieve suitable insulation. We mention here, that the rail 11 can be provided with thin tube-like insulation (not shown in the figure), which can be punctured with the electric connecting elements 6. The electric connection of the solar cells 3 is formed in a switch box 34, from which wires 5 are led and connected to the rail 11. The end of the flat electric connecting element 6 can be provided with a bulge to make sure the electric connection is stable.
The Fig 22 shows an embodiment of the header 9 as a rail 11 in perspective view. The figure shows two connections with subsequent electric connecting elements 6.
The Fig 23 shows a possible connection between the covering elements 1 and the rail 11 in partial section. It is shown in this figure, that in given case how the rail 11 shortened in site can be connected with an expansion element 30. This expansion element 30 can join both ends of the rail 11.
The Fig 24 shows another possible electrical connection of the solar cells 3 in view. In case of this connecting solution the rails 11 are at one edge of the covering element 1, at the other edge the electric connecting elements 6 of the solar cells 3 protrude. These electric connecting elements 6 are connected to the rails 11 of the other covering element 1. With this solution the electric connection of the covering elements 1 can be established by simple placing in site.
The Fig 25 shows the other realization of the header 9 as rail 11, in perspective view. Here the rail 11 shows the form of a cross, the lower part of which is provided with ribs 38. With the help of these ribs 38 it is possible to fix the rail 11 into the properly formed groove of the thermal insulator panel 2 by impression. The electric connecting elements 6 can be fixed onto this rail 11, the lower part of which has a slanting introductory zone 18. The advantage of this solution is, that the protruding part of the rail 11 is not vulnerable, because it is long. The electric connecting element 6 is short and strong. The extension of the rails 11 can take place with an expansion element 30 of H form (not depicted).
The Fig 26 shows the other possible connection solution of the covering elements 1 with the rail 11 in partial section. In this solution the thermal insulator panel 2 is in a notched-bevelled bonding, and the electric connection is formed on the part closer to the wall 7. This solution offers a completely protected connecting possibility, nothing can be seen from the outside. In case of this solution the thermal insulator panel 2 is fixed to the wall 7 by sticking 29.
The Fig 27 shows the third possible connection solution of the covering elements 1 and the rail 11 in partial section. In case of this version the rails 11 are far from the wall 7 and are covered with a lid 35. In case of both solutions the important thing is, that the solar cells 3 could not be connected to the rails 11 of opposed polarity.
The Fig 28 shows the detail of the fixing of the covering elements 1 by supporting element 19, and detail of the electric connection in partial section. Here we can see such a supporting element 19, which is formed at the upper part of the covering element 1. The supporting element 19 holds the covering element 1 and two rails 11 as well. The fixing of the covering element 1 takes place by sliding from upwards. Accordingly are the electric connecting elements 6 formed. The upper end of the rail 11 is preferably formed with a bulge, so the electric connecting elements 6 can be snapped on it.
Covering of electricity producing and insulating characteristics according to the invention can be applied on buildings, vertical or horizontal (flat roof) surfaces of buildings. In case of hall-like buildings it can be used as independent building element. Whereas using the known roof-tiles with solar panel only a small portion of the total surface of the building could be covered with solar panels, so only a limited quantity of electricity could be gained, using the solution according to the invention the numerous thin-wall buildings of residential settlements can be made economical subsequently by insulation and electricity gained from solar energy.
Considering the rate of annual global radiation, it is possible to produce electric energy of considerable quantity with solar cells even with modest efficiency in an environmental friendly way. The biggest problem nowadays is the refurbishing and subsequent heat-insulation of the numerous buildings in residential settlements. Applying this invention, beside heat-insulation, sound-proofing can be ensured as well, and additional energy can be produced resulting even in a positive energy balance for a house. With the application of mirrors the efficiency of energy production can be improved in every season, in winter the output can even be multiplied. It can be declared, that energy production with the solution according to the invention is more coherent, regular than in case of solutions without mirrors. More energy can be gained from not entirely southern orientated surfaces too.
Installing solar cells can take place gradually, as they are quite expensive. It is preferable to place mirrors first to the places of the solar panel, which can be exchanged later to a solar cell. This way the aesthetic appearance of the building hardly changes.
Covering and building elements according to the invention can be advantageously used in other fields of application as well, where producing energy and heat-insulation are both important.
List of references:
1 - covering element
2 - thermal insulator panel -solar cell
-transparent protective layer
-wire
-electric connecting element
-wall
-bolster
-header
-screw
- rail
- plane glass
-sealing
-direction of incoming solar radiation -plastic covering
-auxiliary strip
-channel
-introductory zone
- supporting element
- gypsum end element
-driving mechanism
- sliders
-hinges
- external edge
- internal edge
-projection plane
-light source
-battery
-sticking
-expansion element
1 -guiding
- insulating layer -filling
- switch box
-lid
-connector
-extension
-rib
-shell
- connecting plane -supporting structure -mirror
-backwall