Co-optimization of solar tracking for shading and photovoltaic energy conversion

Forrest Meggers, Dorit Aviv, Victor Charpentier, Eric Teitelbaum, Adam Ainslie, Sigrid Adriaenssens

Research output: Chapter in Book/Report/Conference proceedingConference contribution

1 Scopus citations

Abstract

We investigate the geometric co-optimization of shading and solar photovoltaic tracking with a single surface. The simulation combines ideal solar tracking with a unique method for continuous shading of a fixed surface area through all sun angles. For photovoltaics, a panel achieves maximum power production by maintaining a normal orientation to the sun vector. This is achieved by tracking the 2-axis solar motion. Shading is also increased with standard tracking, but the area shaded is not effectively controlled by normal tracking alone. By rotating the panel along a path in space that maps the arc the sun makes across the sky, it is possible to also provide constant shading to a fixed position at the centroid of the arc while simultaneously maintaining a normal orientation to solar rays. The simulations were made as part of the development of a solar photovoltaic powered outdoor work table with a continuously shaded work surface. The results show the ability to maintain continuous shading, and to double the potential PV generation as compared to a fixed panel. We built a prototype that achieved this operation, and in that process used a curved panel, which has led to further simulation of curved PV surfaces. This analysis demonstrates the potential leveling of the power curve. Although it decreases total energy produced per area of panel, we show curved surfaces can significantly increase the power per unit area of panel footprint.

Original languageEnglish (US)
Title of host publication15th International Conference of the International Building Performance Simulation Association, Building Simulation 2017
EditorsCharles S. Barnaby, Michael Wetter
PublisherInternational Building Performance Simulation Association
Pages2792-2799
Number of pages8
ISBN (Electronic)9781510870673
DOIs
StatePublished - 2017
Event15th International Conference of the International Building Performance Simulation Association, Building Simulation 2017 - San Francisco, United States
Duration: Aug 7 2017Aug 9 2017

Publication series

NameBuilding Simulation Conference Proceedings
Volume5
ISSN (Print)2522-2708

Conference

Conference15th International Conference of the International Building Performance Simulation Association, Building Simulation 2017
Country/TerritoryUnited States
CitySan Francisco
Period8/7/178/9/17

All Science Journal Classification (ASJC) codes

  • Building and Construction
  • Architecture
  • Modeling and Simulation
  • Computer Science Applications

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