Analysis of a hybrid solar window for building integration

Tejas Ulavi, Tim Hebrink, Jane H Davidson

Research output: Contribution to journalArticlepeer-review

16 Scopus citations

Abstract

The technical performance of a hybrid 'solar window' that provides heating in addition to daylighting is evaluated. A wavelength selective film is coupled with a compound parabolic concentrator (CPC) to reflect and concentrate the infrared portion of the solar spectrum onto a tubular absorber while transmitting the visible portion of the spectrum into the interior space. The optical performance of the CPC/selective film is predicted using a Monte Carlo Ray-Tracing model. An adaptive concentrator geometry based on asymmetrical truncation of CPCs is analyzed for vertical windows and horizontal skylights. The predicted visible transmittance is 0.66-0.73 for single glazed windows and 0.61-0.67 for double glazed windows. The solar heat gain coefficient and the U-factor are comparable to existing glazing technology. The annual thermal efficiency for double glazed windows/skylights based on use in Minneapolis, MN is 24-26%.

Original languageEnglish (US)
Pages (from-to)290-302
Number of pages13
JournalSolar Energy
Volume105
DOIs
StatePublished - Jul 2014

Keywords

  • Building integration
  • Hybrid
  • Solar window
  • Wavelength selective film

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