WO2008009916A1 - Building component with solar cells - Google Patents

Building component with solar cells Download PDF

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Publication number
WO2008009916A1
WO2008009916A1 PCT/GB2007/002690 GB2007002690W WO2008009916A1 WO 2008009916 A1 WO2008009916 A1 WO 2008009916A1 GB 2007002690 W GB2007002690 W GB 2007002690W WO 2008009916 A1 WO2008009916 A1 WO 2008009916A1
Authority
WO
WIPO (PCT)
Prior art keywords
sheet
laminate
photo
voltaic
secured
Prior art date
Application number
PCT/GB2007/002690
Other languages
French (fr)
Inventor
Benedict George Morris
Daniel Gower Davies
Original Assignee
Solar Century Holdings Limited
Priority date (The priority date is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the date listed.)
Filing date
Publication date
Application filed by Solar Century Holdings Limited filed Critical Solar Century Holdings Limited
Priority to EP07789021A priority Critical patent/EP2044633A1/en
Publication of WO2008009916A1 publication Critical patent/WO2008009916A1/en

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Classifications

    • A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
    • A01—AGRICULTURE; FORESTRY; ANIMAL HUSBANDRY; HUNTING; TRAPPING; FISHING
    • A01G—HORTICULTURE; CULTIVATION OF VEGETABLES, FLOWERS, RICE, FRUIT, VINES, HOPS OR SEAWEED; FORESTRY; WATERING
    • A01G9/00—Cultivation in receptacles, forcing-frames or greenhouses; Edging for beds, lawn or the like
    • A01G9/14—Greenhouses
    • A01G9/1407—Greenhouses of flexible synthetic material
    • A01G9/1415—Greenhouses of flexible synthetic material with double or multiple walls
    • H—ELECTRICITY
    • H02—GENERATION; CONVERSION OR DISTRIBUTION OF ELECTRIC POWER
    • H02S—GENERATION OF ELECTRIC POWER BY CONVERSION OF INFRARED RADIATION, VISIBLE LIGHT OR ULTRAVIOLET LIGHT, e.g. USING PHOTOVOLTAIC [PV] MODULES
    • H02S20/00—Supporting structures for PV modules
    • H02S20/20—Supporting structures directly fixed to an immovable object
    • H02S20/22—Supporting structures directly fixed to an immovable object specially adapted for buildings
    • H02S20/23—Supporting structures directly fixed to an immovable object specially adapted for buildings specially adapted for roof structures
    • A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
    • A01—AGRICULTURE; FORESTRY; ANIMAL HUSBANDRY; HUNTING; TRAPPING; FISHING
    • A01G—HORTICULTURE; CULTIVATION OF VEGETABLES, FLOWERS, RICE, FRUIT, VINES, HOPS OR SEAWEED; FORESTRY; WATERING
    • A01G9/00—Cultivation in receptacles, forcing-frames or greenhouses; Edging for beds, lawn or the like
    • A01G9/22—Shades or blinds for greenhouses, or the like
    • A01G9/225—Inflatable structures
    • A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
    • A01—AGRICULTURE; FORESTRY; ANIMAL HUSBANDRY; HUNTING; TRAPPING; FISHING
    • A01G—HORTICULTURE; CULTIVATION OF VEGETABLES, FLOWERS, RICE, FRUIT, VINES, HOPS OR SEAWEED; FORESTRY; WATERING
    • A01G9/00—Cultivation in receptacles, forcing-frames or greenhouses; Edging for beds, lawn or the like
    • A01G9/24—Devices or systems for heating, ventilating, regulating temperature, illuminating, or watering, in greenhouses, forcing-frames, or the like
    • A01G9/243—Collecting solar energy
    • E—FIXED CONSTRUCTIONS
    • E04—BUILDING
    • E04B—GENERAL BUILDING CONSTRUCTIONS; WALLS, e.g. PARTITIONS; ROOFS; FLOORS; CEILINGS; INSULATION OR OTHER PROTECTION OF BUILDINGS
    • E04B7/00—Roofs; Roof construction with regard to insulation
    • E04B7/08—Vaulted roofs
    • E—FIXED CONSTRUCTIONS
    • E04—BUILDING
    • E04B—GENERAL BUILDING CONSTRUCTIONS; WALLS, e.g. PARTITIONS; ROOFS; FLOORS; CEILINGS; INSULATION OR OTHER PROTECTION OF BUILDINGS
    • E04B7/00—Roofs; Roof construction with regard to insulation
    • E04B7/14—Suspended roofs
    • E—FIXED CONSTRUCTIONS
    • E04—BUILDING
    • E04D—ROOF COVERINGS; SKY-LIGHTS; GUTTERS; ROOF-WORKING TOOLS
    • E04D5/00—Roof covering by making use of flexible material, e.g. supplied in roll form
    • E04D5/06—Roof covering by making use of flexible material, e.g. supplied in roll form by making use of plastics
    • E—FIXED CONSTRUCTIONS
    • E04—BUILDING
    • E04H—BUILDINGS OR LIKE STRUCTURES FOR PARTICULAR PURPOSES; SWIMMING OR SPLASH BATHS OR POOLS; MASTS; FENCING; TENTS OR CANOPIES, IN GENERAL
    • E04H15/00—Tents or canopies, in general
    • E04H15/32—Parts, components, construction details, accessories, interior equipment, specially adapted for tents, e.g. guy-line equipment, skirts, thresholds
    • E04H15/64—Tent or canopy cover fastenings
    • E04H15/642—Tent or canopy cover fastenings with covers held by elongated fixing members locking in longitudinal recesses of a frame
    • E04H15/648—Tent or canopy cover fastenings with covers held by elongated fixing members locking in longitudinal recesses of a frame the longitudinal recesses being made from two clamping members
    • H—ELECTRICITY
    • H02—GENERATION; CONVERSION OR DISTRIBUTION OF ELECTRIC POWER
    • H02S—GENERATION OF ELECTRIC POWER BY CONVERSION OF INFRARED RADIATION, VISIBLE LIGHT OR ULTRAVIOLET LIGHT, e.g. USING PHOTOVOLTAIC [PV] MODULES
    • H02S20/00—Supporting structures for PV modules
    • H02S20/20—Supporting structures directly fixed to an immovable object
    • H02S20/22—Supporting structures directly fixed to an immovable object specially adapted for buildings
    • H02S20/26—Building materials integrated with PV modules, e.g. façade elements
    • E—FIXED CONSTRUCTIONS
    • E04—BUILDING
    • E04H—BUILDINGS OR LIKE STRUCTURES FOR PARTICULAR PURPOSES; SWIMMING OR SPLASH BATHS OR POOLS; MASTS; FENCING; TENTS OR CANOPIES, IN GENERAL
    • E04H15/00—Tents or canopies, in general
    • E04H15/20—Tents or canopies, in general inflatable, e.g. shaped, strengthened or supported by fluid pressure
    • E04H2015/202—Tents or canopies, in general inflatable, e.g. shaped, strengthened or supported by fluid pressure with inflatable panels, without inflatable tubular framework
    • E04H2015/205—Tents or canopies, in general inflatable, e.g. shaped, strengthened or supported by fluid pressure with inflatable panels, without inflatable tubular framework made from two sheets with intermediate spacer means
    • Y—GENERAL TAGGING OF NEW TECHNOLOGICAL DEVELOPMENTS; GENERAL TAGGING OF CROSS-SECTIONAL TECHNOLOGIES SPANNING OVER SEVERAL SECTIONS OF THE IPC; TECHNICAL SUBJECTS COVERED BY FORMER USPC CROSS-REFERENCE ART COLLECTIONS [XRACs] AND DIGESTS
    • Y02—TECHNOLOGIES OR APPLICATIONS FOR MITIGATION OR ADAPTATION AGAINST CLIMATE CHANGE
    • Y02A—TECHNOLOGIES FOR ADAPTATION TO CLIMATE CHANGE
    • Y02A40/00—Adaptation technologies in agriculture, forestry, livestock or agroalimentary production
    • Y02A40/10—Adaptation technologies in agriculture, forestry, livestock or agroalimentary production in agriculture
    • Y02A40/25—Greenhouse technology, e.g. cooling systems therefor
    • Y—GENERAL TAGGING OF NEW TECHNOLOGICAL DEVELOPMENTS; GENERAL TAGGING OF CROSS-SECTIONAL TECHNOLOGIES SPANNING OVER SEVERAL SECTIONS OF THE IPC; TECHNICAL SUBJECTS COVERED BY FORMER USPC CROSS-REFERENCE ART COLLECTIONS [XRACs] AND DIGESTS
    • Y02—TECHNOLOGIES OR APPLICATIONS FOR MITIGATION OR ADAPTATION AGAINST CLIMATE CHANGE
    • Y02B—CLIMATE CHANGE MITIGATION TECHNOLOGIES RELATED TO BUILDINGS, e.g. HOUSING, HOUSE APPLIANCES OR RELATED END-USER APPLICATIONS
    • Y02B10/00—Integration of renewable energy sources in buildings
    • Y02B10/10—Photovoltaic [PV]
    • Y—GENERAL TAGGING OF NEW TECHNOLOGICAL DEVELOPMENTS; GENERAL TAGGING OF CROSS-SECTIONAL TECHNOLOGIES SPANNING OVER SEVERAL SECTIONS OF THE IPC; TECHNICAL SUBJECTS COVERED BY FORMER USPC CROSS-REFERENCE ART COLLECTIONS [XRACs] AND DIGESTS
    • Y02—TECHNOLOGIES OR APPLICATIONS FOR MITIGATION OR ADAPTATION AGAINST CLIMATE CHANGE
    • Y02E—REDUCTION OF GREENHOUSE GAS [GHG] EMISSIONS, RELATED TO ENERGY GENERATION, TRANSMISSION OR DISTRIBUTION
    • Y02E10/00—Energy generation through renewable energy sources
    • Y02E10/50—Photovoltaic [PV] energy
    • Y—GENERAL TAGGING OF NEW TECHNOLOGICAL DEVELOPMENTS; GENERAL TAGGING OF CROSS-SECTIONAL TECHNOLOGIES SPANNING OVER SEVERAL SECTIONS OF THE IPC; TECHNICAL SUBJECTS COVERED BY FORMER USPC CROSS-REFERENCE ART COLLECTIONS [XRACs] AND DIGESTS
    • Y02—TECHNOLOGIES OR APPLICATIONS FOR MITIGATION OR ADAPTATION AGAINST CLIMATE CHANGE
    • Y02P—CLIMATE CHANGE MITIGATION TECHNOLOGIES IN THE PRODUCTION OR PROCESSING OF GOODS
    • Y02P60/00—Technologies relating to agriculture, livestock or agroalimentary industries
    • Y02P60/12—Technologies relating to agriculture, livestock or agroalimentary industries using renewable energies, e.g. solar water pumping

Definitions

  • the present invention relates to apparatus forming a building component, comprising a substantially rigid support frame, a first substantially transparent or translucent flexible sheet attached to said support frame and a second substantially transparent or translucent flexible sheet attached to said frame to define an inflatable element.
  • the elements may comprise two or more layers of a plastic foil-like material, such as ETFE (Ethylene Tetra Flouro Ethylene) inflated with relatively low pressure air.
  • ETFE Ethylene Tetra Flouro Ethylene
  • the ETFE sheet is restrained in its perimeter frame, the frame usually being manufactured from extruded aluminum, which is turn fixed to a support structure.
  • the ETFE sheet As the element is inflated, the ETFE sheet is placed under tension and thereby forms a tight drum-like skin.
  • ETFE based elements of this type are fixed to a support structure to form a cladding and are used to enclose spaces such as atria or to provide a transparent or translucent roof or facade, often as an alternative to glass.
  • an apparatus for forming a building component comprising a substantially rigid frame; a first substantially transparent or translucent flexible sheet attached to said support frame and a second substantially transparent or translucent flexible sheet attached to said frame to define an inflatable element.
  • at least one region of flexible photo-voltaic laminate material positioned over one of said flexible sheets such that when inflated and when constructed said photo-photo-voltaic laminate material generates electrical energy and provides a degree of shading under conditions of sunlight.
  • Figure 1 shows a portion of a building having inflated elements
  • Figure 2 shows an inflated element of the type shown in Figure 1;
  • Figure 3 shows a cross-section of the element identified in Figure 2
  • Figure 4 shows a cross-section of the frame forming part of the element identified in Figure 1 ;
  • Figure 5 shows an alternative embodiment in which a photo-voltaic laminate is secured directly
  • Figure 6 shows an alternative embodiment in which an additional sheet is provided
  • Figure 7 shows an alternative embodiment in which the photo-voltaic material is encapsulated within layers of EVA;
  • Figure 8 shows an alternative embodiment in which a third transparent flexible sheet is provided;
  • Figure 9 shows a cross-section of a support frame for the embodiment of Figure 7;
  • Figure 10 shows an alternative embodiment with an intermediate sheet;
  • Figure 11 shows an alternative configuration for the embodiment of Figure 9.
  • Figure 12 shows an alternative embodiment in which photo-voltaic elements have been incorporated within the cushion material itself. Description of the Best Mode for Carrying out the Invention
  • FIG. 1 A portion of a building is shown in Figure 1 in which a main load bearing structure that includes cross members 101 , supports elements 102.
  • Each element 102 has a rigid support frame arranged to support a first substantially transparent or translucent flexible sheet and a second substantially transparent or translucent flexible sheet so as to define an inflatable element.
  • most of a building is constructed using inflatable elements.
  • inflatable elements may be used in part of a building, such as for a roof, an atrium or for a facade.
  • the example of Figure 1 is constructed from rectilinear elements.
  • FIG. 2 An inflated element 102 is shown in Figure 2, consisting of three rectangular ETFE sheets held within a support frame 201. A space between the sheets is inflated via a compressed air inlet 202, thereby maintaining pressure within the sealed element.
  • the element is also provided with regions 203 of flexible photo-voltaic laminate material secured to one of the flexible sheets. In this way, when the element has been inflated and the resulting inflated element incorporated within a construction (such as that shown in Figure 1 ).
  • the photo-voltaic material generates electrical energy and also provides a degree of shading under conditions of sunlight.
  • the regions 203 of photo-voltaic laminate material are shown connected in parallel by electrical connection wire 204.
  • electrical conduction cables such as cable 204
  • Figure 3 A cross-section of the element shown in Figure 2 is detailed in Figure 3.
  • the provision of intermediate sheet 303 enhances the stability of the element and also affects characteristics of the element, such as its ability to transmit light and its thermal properties.
  • a first inflatable region 304 is defined between the first sheet 301 and the intermediate sheet 303.
  • a second inflatable region 305 is provided, between the intermediate sheet 303 and the second sheet 302.
  • the regions receive air under these circumstances via a first inlet 306 (for region 304) and via a second air inlet 307, for the second inflatable region.
  • Figure 4 A cross-section of support frame 201 is detailed in Figure 4.
  • the frame is fabricated from aluminum extrusions, taking the form of an upper frame component 401 and a lower frame component 402. At their edges, sheets 301 , 302 and 303 are brought together to encapsulate a bead 403. The bead 403 is then held within an extruded edge portion 404, which is itself restrained within the lower frame component 402.
  • FIG. 5 An embodiment is shown in Figure 5, in which the first sheet 301 has an upper external surface 501 and an internal surface 502.
  • the photo-voltaic laminate 203 is secured directly to the upper surface 501.
  • the photo-voltaic laminate 203 is secured directly to the upper surface 501 by means of an adhesive 503.
  • FIG. 6 An alternative embodiment is shown in Figure 6 in which, again, the laminate 203 is positioned over the upper surface 501 of the first sheet 301.
  • an additional sheet 601 is provided again being substantially transparent or translucent and in particular allowing the transmission of light at frequencies most applicable for the optimum operation of the photo-voltaic laminate 203.
  • the additional sheet 601 is larger than the laminate so as to present overhanging edges 602 which are secured to the upper surface 501.
  • the additional sheet 601 is secured (by the application of an adhesive for example) to the laminate 202.
  • the sheet is not secured to the laminate and the laminate is held in position in a pocket-like manner, such that the laminate is allowed a degree of movement over the upper surface.
  • the photo-voltaic elements take the form of separate panels that are supported on the upper surface 501 and spaced away from the edge of the elements. This positioning is preferred so as to reduce the degree of flexing to which the photo-voltaic laminate is subjected. Thus, in a preferred embodiment, the photo-voltaic laminate is not applied near to the corners of the element, where the curvature of the transparent sheets is considerable.
  • a factory finished unit 701 includes a conventional photo-voltaic component 702, typically consisting of the photo-voltaic material being encapsulated within layers of EVA.
  • a conventional photo-voltaic component 702 typically consisting of the photo-voltaic material being encapsulated within layers of EVA.
  • further layers 703 of ETFE are provided to facilitate integration into a top layer 704 by a welding process.
  • the photo-voltaic construction 701 may be incorporated within the cushion-like structure itself, either after the fabrication of the cushion or prior to the fabrication of the cushion.
  • FIG. 8 An alternative embodiment is illustrated in Figure 8 in which a third top transparent or translucent flexible sheet 801 has been provided which extends over the first flexible sheet 301.
  • the element is also provided with a second flexible sheet 302 and an intermediate flexible sheet
  • a space is provided between the first flexible sheet 301 and the additional third sheet 801 configured to receive photo-voltaic laminate panels 203.
  • the embodiment of Figure 8 provides an advantage in that the application, servicing or removal of voltaic laminates 203 is easily facilitated, by the removal or application of the top sheet 801. Thus, the laminates 203 may be secured in position without affecting the integrity of the upper surface of the first sheet 301.
  • Figure 9
  • FIG. 9 A cross-section of the support frame is shown in Figure 9, substantially similar to the cross-section of Figure 4 but with an additional frame attachment to facilitate assembly of the configuration shown in Figure 8.
  • Frame attachment 901 is secured to the upper frame component 401.
  • the frame attachment 901 provides a first bead-channel 902 and a second bead-channel
  • Each of these bead-channels is configured to receive a beaded edge of a third flexible sheet, such as sheet 801 shown in Figure 8.
  • Figure 10
  • FIG. 10 An alternative embodiment is shown in Figure 10, in which the first flexible sheet 301 is an outer sheet having an outer upper surface 501 and an inner surface 502.
  • a first photo-voltaic laminate 203 is secured to the outer surface 501 , possibly using the techniques described with respect to Figure 5 or with respect to Figure 6.
  • a second photo-voltaic laminate 1001 is secured to the intermediate sheet 303.
  • a degree of shading is provided by both the upper photo-voltaic laminate 203 and the intermediate photo-voltaic laminate 1001.
  • the shading regions are interdigitated such that the blank (substantially transparent) regions of the upper layer 501 are covered by the shading regions of the intermediate layer 303.
  • FIG. 12 An alternative embodiment is shown in Figure 12, that is substantially similar to the embodiment of Figure 10.
  • upper photo-voltaic elements 1201 and intermediate photo-voltaic elements 1202 have been incorporated within the cushion material itself, possibly using the techniques described with respect to Figure 7.

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  • Engineering & Computer Science (AREA)
  • Architecture (AREA)
  • Civil Engineering (AREA)
  • Structural Engineering (AREA)
  • Life Sciences & Earth Sciences (AREA)
  • Environmental Sciences (AREA)
  • Physics & Mathematics (AREA)
  • Electromagnetism (AREA)
  • Sustainable Development (AREA)
  • Sustainable Energy (AREA)
  • Photovoltaic Devices (AREA)
  • Tents Or Canopies (AREA)

Abstract

A building component is shown having a substantially rigid support frame (201). In addition, the component has a first substantially transparent or translucent flexible sheet (301) and a second substantially transparent or translucent flexible sheet (302) attached to frame (201) to define an inflatable element. At least one region (203) of the flexible photo-voltaic laminate material is secured to one of the flexible sheets (301) such that when inflated and when constructed the photo-voltaic material (203) generates electrical energy and provides a degree of shading under conditions of sunlight.

Description

BUILDING COMPONENT WITH SOLAR CELLS
Cross Reference to Related Applications
This application claims priority from United Kingdom Patent Application No. 06 14 253.3 filed on July 18, 2006, the whole contents of which are incorporated herein by reference.
Technical Field
The present invention relates to apparatus forming a building component, comprising a substantially rigid support frame, a first substantially transparent or translucent flexible sheet attached to said support frame and a second substantially transparent or translucent flexible sheet attached to said frame to define an inflatable element. Background of the Invention
Building components constructed from a substantially rigid support frame with a first substantially transparent or translucent flexible sheet attached thereto along with a second substantially transparent or translucent flexible sheet thereto so as to define an inflatable cushion-like element are known. The elements may comprise two or more layers of a plastic foil-like material, such as ETFE (Ethylene Tetra Flouro Ethylene) inflated with relatively low pressure air. The ETFE sheet is restrained in its perimeter frame, the frame usually being manufactured from extruded aluminum, which is turn fixed to a support structure.
As the element is inflated, the ETFE sheet is placed under tension and thereby forms a tight drum-like skin.
ETFE based elements of this type are fixed to a support structure to form a cladding and are used to enclose spaces such as atria or to provide a transparent or translucent roof or facade, often as an alternative to glass.
However, an advantage over using glass structures is that the element-based structures are relatively less expensive, the components have a lower embodied energy and do not require the use of toxic chemicals. The technology has been implemented, for example, by the Eden Project in the United Kingdom. Brief Summary of the Invention
According to an aspect of the present invention, there is provided an apparatus for forming a building component, comprising a substantially rigid frame; a first substantially transparent or translucent flexible sheet attached to said support frame and a second substantially transparent or translucent flexible sheet attached to said frame to define an inflatable element. In addition, there is provided at least one region of flexible photo-voltaic laminate material positioned over one of said flexible sheets such that when inflated and when constructed said photo-photo-voltaic laminate material generates electrical energy and provides a degree of shading under conditions of sunlight.
Brief Description of the Several Views of the Drawings
Figure 1 shows a portion of a building having inflated elements;
Figure 2 shows an inflated element of the type shown in Figure 1;
Figure 3 shows a cross-section of the element identified in Figure 2; Figure 4 shows a cross-section of the frame forming part of the element identified in Figure 1 ;
Figure 5 shows an alternative embodiment in which a photo-voltaic laminate is secured directly;
Figure 6 shows an alternative embodiment in which an additional sheet is provided;
Figure 7 shows an alternative embodiment in which the photo-voltaic material is encapsulated within layers of EVA; Figure 8 shows an alternative embodiment in which a third transparent flexible sheet is provided;
Figure 9 shows a cross-section of a support frame for the embodiment of Figure 7; Figure 10 shows an alternative embodiment with an intermediate sheet;
Figure 11 shows an alternative configuration for the embodiment of Figure 9; and
Figure 12 shows an alternative embodiment in which photo-voltaic elements have been incorporated within the cushion material itself. Description of the Best Mode for Carrying out the Invention
Figure 1
A portion of a building is shown in Figure 1 in which a main load bearing structure that includes cross members 101 , supports elements 102. Each element 102 has a rigid support frame arranged to support a first substantially transparent or translucent flexible sheet and a second substantially transparent or translucent flexible sheet so as to define an inflatable element.
In a preferred embodiment, most of a building is constructed using inflatable elements. Alternatively, inflatable elements may be used in part of a building, such as for a roof, an atrium or for a facade. The example of Figure 1 is constructed from rectilinear elements.
However, it should be appreciated that in alternative embodiments it is possible to use cushion-like elements having irregular and sophisticated shapes, possibly defining curves across two planes. Figure 2 An inflated element 102 is shown in Figure 2, consisting of three rectangular ETFE sheets held within a support frame 201. A space between the sheets is inflated via a compressed air inlet 202, thereby maintaining pressure within the sealed element.
The element is also provided with regions 203 of flexible photo-voltaic laminate material secured to one of the flexible sheets. In this way, when the element has been inflated and the resulting inflated element incorporated within a construction (such as that shown in Figure 1 ). The photo-voltaic material generates electrical energy and also provides a degree of shading under conditions of sunlight.
The regions 203 of photo-voltaic laminate material are shown connected in parallel by electrical connection wire 204. In order to facilitate the distribution of cables within the structure as a whole, it is possible for electrical conduction cables, such as cable 204, to pass through flexible sheets via a gland 205, configured such that the sheet itself remains sealed and does not therefore lose pressure.
Figure 3 A cross-section of the element shown in Figure 2 is detailed in Figure 3.
This shows the frame 201 in cross-section, configured to support a first substantially transparent or translucent flexible sheet 301 and a second substantially transparent or translucent flexible sheet 302. Furthermore, in this embodiment, an intermediate transparent or translucent flexible sheet 303 is provided. The provision of intermediate sheet 303 enhances the stability of the element and also affects characteristics of the element, such as its ability to transmit light and its thermal properties.
Within the element itself, a first inflatable region 304 is defined between the first sheet 301 and the intermediate sheet 303. Likewise, a second inflatable region 305 is provided, between the intermediate sheet 303 and the second sheet 302. By making region 304 independently inflatable from region
205 it is possible to apply different degrees of pressure to these regions and thereby control operational attributes of the element itself. The regions receive air under these circumstances via a first inlet 306 (for region 304) and via a second air inlet 307, for the second inflatable region.
Figure 4 A cross-section of support frame 201 is detailed in Figure 4. In a preferred embodiment, the frame is fabricated from aluminum extrusions, taking the form of an upper frame component 401 and a lower frame component 402. At their edges, sheets 301 , 302 and 303 are brought together to encapsulate a bead 403. The bead 403 is then held within an extruded edge portion 404, which is itself restrained within the lower frame component 402.
As shown in Figure 4, a similar assembly 405 is restrained on an opposite side.
To complete the assembly of the element, the sheets are firmly held in place by the application of the upper frame component 401. Figure 5
An embodiment is shown in Figure 5, in which the first sheet 301 has an upper external surface 501 and an internal surface 502. In this embodiment, the photo-voltaic laminate 203 is secured directly to the upper surface 501. In one embodiment, the photo-voltaic laminate 203 is secured directly to the upper surface 501 by means of an adhesive 503.
Figure 6
An alternative embodiment is shown in Figure 6 in which, again, the laminate 203 is positioned over the upper surface 501 of the first sheet 301. However, in this embodiment, an additional sheet 601 is provided again being substantially transparent or translucent and in particular allowing the transmission of light at frequencies most applicable for the optimum operation of the photo-voltaic laminate 203. In this embodiment, the additional sheet 601 is larger than the laminate so as to present overhanging edges 602 which are secured to the upper surface 501.
In an embodiment, the additional sheet 601 is secured (by the application of an adhesive for example) to the laminate 202. However, in an alternative embodiment, the sheet is not secured to the laminate and the laminate is held in position in a pocket-like manner, such that the laminate is allowed a degree of movement over the upper surface.
As shown in Figure 2 and as reinforced by Figure 6, the photo-voltaic elements take the form of separate panels that are supported on the upper surface 501 and spaced away from the edge of the elements. This positioning is preferred so as to reduce the degree of flexing to which the photo-voltaic laminate is subjected. Thus, in a preferred embodiment, the photo-voltaic laminate is not applied near to the corners of the element, where the curvature of the transparent sheets is considerable.
Figure 7
An alternative embodiment is shown in Figure 7 in which a factory finished unit 701 includes a conventional photo-voltaic component 702, typically consisting of the photo-voltaic material being encapsulated within layers of EVA. However, in addition, further layers 703 of ETFE are provided to facilitate integration into a top layer 704 by a welding process. Thus, I this way, the photo-voltaic construction 701 may be incorporated within the cushion-like structure itself, either after the fabrication of the cushion or prior to the fabrication of the cushion. Figure 8
An alternative embodiment is illustrated in Figure 8 in which a third top transparent or translucent flexible sheet 801 has been provided which extends over the first flexible sheet 301. In this embodiment, the element is also provided with a second flexible sheet 302 and an intermediate flexible sheet
303, again defining inflatable regions 304 and 305.
A space is provided between the first flexible sheet 301 and the additional third sheet 801 configured to receive photo-voltaic laminate panels 203. The embodiment of Figure 8 provides an advantage in that the application, servicing or removal of voltaic laminates 203 is easily facilitated, by the removal or application of the top sheet 801. Thus, the laminates 203 may be secured in position without affecting the integrity of the upper surface of the first sheet 301. Figure 9
A cross-section of the support frame is shown in Figure 9, substantially similar to the cross-section of Figure 4 but with an additional frame attachment to facilitate assembly of the configuration shown in Figure 8. Frame attachment 901 is secured to the upper frame component 401. The frame attachment 901 provides a first bead-channel 902 and a second bead-channel
903. Each of these bead-channels is configured to receive a beaded edge of a third flexible sheet, such as sheet 801 shown in Figure 8. Figure 10
An alternative embodiment is shown in Figure 10, in which the first flexible sheet 301 is an outer sheet having an outer upper surface 501 and an inner surface 502. A first photo-voltaic laminate 203 is secured to the outer surface 501 , possibly using the techniques described with respect to Figure 5 or with respect to Figure 6. In addition, a second photo-voltaic laminate 1001 is secured to the intermediate sheet 303. When constructed, as illustrated in Figure 10, a degree of shading is provided by both the upper photo-voltaic laminate 203 and the intermediate photo-voltaic laminate 1001. However, in the configuration shown in Figure 10, it is possible for light to pass through the elements (and thereby illuminate the interior of a building) by passing between the photo-voltaic laminate shading components (203, 1001) as illustrated by arrow 1002. However, as previously described with respect to Figure 3, it is possible for a different air pressure to be applied within region 304 compared to the region 305.
Figure 11
The embodiment of Figure 10 is again illustrated in Figure 11. However, in this example, the air pressure within region 305 has been increased relative to the pressure of the air contained within region 304. Consequently, the volume of region 304 has reduced substantially and the volume of region 305 has increased substantially, effectively filling most of the space between the first sheet 501 and the second sheet 502. Under these circumstances, shading laminates 203 are brought into close proximity with shading laminates 901.
The shading regions are interdigitated such that the blank (substantially transparent) regions of the upper layer 501 are covered by the shading regions of the intermediate layer 303. Thus, when the assembly of Figure 10 is modified into the configuration of Figure 11 , the overall transparency of the individual elements (and by implication the overall structure) is substantially reduced. Thus, by modifying the relative air pressures within regions 304 and 305, it is possible to adjust the degree of shading provided by the photo-voltaic laminates. Furthermore, it should be appreciated that this modification would not, in a preferred embodiment, substantially reduce the structures ability to generate electrical energy. Figure 12
An alternative embodiment is shown in Figure 12, that is substantially similar to the embodiment of Figure 10. However, in the embodiment of Figure 12, upper photo-voltaic elements 1201 and intermediate photo-voltaic elements 1202 have been incorporated within the cushion material itself, possibly using the techniques described with respect to Figure 7.

Claims

Claims
1. Apparatus forming a building component, comprising a substantially rigid support frame; a first substantially transparent or translucent flexible sheet attached to said support frame and a second substantially transparent or translucent flexible sheet attached to said frame to define an inflatable element; and at least one region of flexible photo-voltaic laminate material positioned over one of said flexible sheets such that when inflated and when constructed said photo-voltaic material generates electrical energy and provides a degree of shading under conditions of sunlight.
2. The apparatus of claim 1 , wherein said first sheet is an outer sheet having an upper external surface and an internal surface, wherein said photovoltaic laminate is positioned over said upper surface.
3. The apparatus of claim 2, wherein said photo-voltaic laminate is secured directly to said upper surface.
4. The apparatus of claim 3, wherein said photo-voltaic laminate is secured directly by an adhesive.
5. The apparatus of claim 2, wherein said photo-voltaic laminate is attached to said upper surface by an additional sheet, said additional sheet is larger than the laminate so as to present overhanging edges and said overhanging edges are secured to the upper surface.
6. The apparatus of claim 5, wherein said additional sheet is secured to the laminate.
7. The apparatus of claim 5, wherein the additional sheet is not secured to the laminate and said laminate is held in position in a pocket-like manner, such that said laminate is allowed a degree of movement over the upper surface.
8. The apparatus of claim 2, wherein a third transparent or translucent flexible sheet is positioned over the laminate and said third sheet is attached to said support frame.
9. The apparatus of claim 1 , wherein said first flexible sheet is an outer sheet when constructed having an inner surface and an outer surface, wherein a first photo-voltaic laminate is secured to said outer surface; and an intermediate substantially transparent or translucent flexible sheet is attached to said support frame between said first sheet and said second sheet, wherein a second photo-voltaic laminate is secured to said intermediate sheet.
10. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein at least one of said sheets includes a gland to facilitate the passing of electrical cables for carrying power generated by said laminate.
11. A method of constructing a building component, comprising the steps of: defining two or more substantially transparent or translucent flexible sheets; applying at least one region of flexible photo-voltaic laminate to at least one of said sheets; and attaching edges of said sheets to a substantially rigid support frame to form an inflatable element.
12. The method of claim 11 , wherein the first sheet is an outer sheet having an upper external surface and an internal surface and the photo-voltaic laminate is positioned over said upper surface.
13. The method of claim 12, wherein the photo-voltaic laminate is attached to said upper surface by an additional sheet, said additional sheet is larger than the laminates so as to present overhanging edges and said overhanging edges are secured to the upper surface.
14. The method of claim 13, wherein the additional sheet is not secured to the laminate and said laminate is held in position in a pocket-like manner, such that said laminate is allowed a degree of movement over the upper surface.
15. The method of claim 12, wherein a third transparent or translucent flexible sheet is positioned over the laminate and said third sheet is attached to said support frame.
16. The method of claim 11 , wherein the first flexible sheet is an outer sheet when constructed having an inner surface and an outer surface, wherein a first photo-voltaic laminate is secured to said outer surface and an intermediate substantially transparent or translucent flexible sheet is attached to said support frame between said first sheet and said second sheet, wherein a second photo-voltaic laminate is secured to said intermediate sheet.
17. A building, atrium or facade, having a main load-bearing structure configured to support a plurality of elements, wherein each of said elements comprises: ' a substantially rigid support frame; a first substantially transparent or translucent flexible sheet attached to said support frame and a second substantially transparent or translucent flexible sheet attached to said frame to define an inflatable element; and at least one region of flexible photo-voltaic laminate material positioned over one of said flexible sheets such that when inflated and constructed said photo-voltaic material generates electrical energy and provides a degree of shading under conditions of sunlight.
18. A building according to claim 17, wherein said load bearing ' structure includes interface devices for receiving cables configured to convey power generated by said laminate material.
19. A building according to claim 17, including a source of compressed air for maintaining said elements inflated.
20. A building according to claim 19, wherein said source of compressed air includes an adjustment device for adjusting the degree of shading provided by the photo-voltaic laminates.
PCT/GB2007/002690 2006-07-18 2007-07-17 Building component with solar cells WO2008009916A1 (en)

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EP07789021A EP2044633A1 (en) 2006-07-18 2007-07-17 Building component with solar cells

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GB0614253.3 2006-07-18
GBGB0614253.3A GB0614253D0 (en) 2006-07-18 2006-07-18 Flexible solar roof

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GB (2) GB0614253D0 (en)
WO (1) WO2008009916A1 (en)

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ITRM20090266A1 (en) * 2009-05-26 2010-11-27 Umberto Berti SHADED PROTECTIVE STRUCTURE WITH IRRAGIATION DOSAGE BY MEANS OF PHOTOVOLTAIC MODULES DENOMINATED BIO DEFENDER
EP2272325A1 (en) 2009-07-10 2011-01-12 Lite-On Green Technologies, Inc. Solar energy greenhouse
ITTO20100095A1 (en) * 2010-02-10 2011-08-11 Giacomo Roccaforte COVERING ELEMENT FOR AN AGRICULTURAL AND SIMILAR GREENHOUSE.
ITBO20110092A1 (en) * 2011-02-28 2012-08-29 Giuseppe Righini ORTIVE INSTALLATION
GB2492043A (en) * 2011-06-06 2012-12-26 Inside2Outside Ltd Solar Cell which remains operative when subjected to an applied tensile load
WO2013162376A1 (en) 2012-04-26 2013-10-31 W. Giertsen As Relocatable building removably equipped with flexible solar panels
EP2664231A1 (en) * 2012-05-18 2013-11-20 Taiyo Europe GmbH Clamp profile for film roof construction
WO2017153782A3 (en) * 2016-03-11 2017-10-19 Evolve Growing Solutions Limited Structures
CN108370773A (en) * 2018-01-15 2018-08-07 江苏大学 A kind of the vinyl house multilayer Sunshade film regulator control system and method for adjustable shading rate
WO2019215460A1 (en) * 2018-05-11 2019-11-14 Solivus Limited A solar module and a method of making a solar module
FR3081286A1 (en) * 2018-05-28 2019-11-29 Alain JANET MOBILE SHADING SCREEN FOR AGRICULTURAL GREENHOUSES
EP3090625B1 (en) * 2014-01-02 2021-03-03 Lv, Hao Multi-span greenhouse inflatable thermal insulation system

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* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
NL1036713C2 (en) * 2008-03-18 2010-08-25 Mahasti Tafahomi TO USE A SPATIAL PROPERTY IF UNDERWARDED IN EMERGENCY, TOYS OR LIGHTWEIGHT RECREATION / TENT OR TENTS WITH A WHOLE OR PARTIAL Peel of PHOTOVOLTAIC SOLAR CELLS, AS ABOVE LAYER OF A COMPOSITE SKIN, CONFIRMED BY LIEGE, THROUGH LM RESOURCES, WHETHER OR NOT PROVIDED WITH ELECTRIC, VENTILATION, WATER CONNECTION POINTS CONNECTED TO EACH OTHER THROUGH THROUGH OR NOT CLAMPING COUPLINGS.
ITRM20090266A1 (en) * 2009-05-26 2010-11-27 Umberto Berti SHADED PROTECTIVE STRUCTURE WITH IRRAGIATION DOSAGE BY MEANS OF PHOTOVOLTAIC MODULES DENOMINATED BIO DEFENDER
EP2272325A1 (en) 2009-07-10 2011-01-12 Lite-On Green Technologies, Inc. Solar energy greenhouse
ITTO20100095A1 (en) * 2010-02-10 2011-08-11 Giacomo Roccaforte COVERING ELEMENT FOR AN AGRICULTURAL AND SIMILAR GREENHOUSE.
ITBO20110092A1 (en) * 2011-02-28 2012-08-29 Giuseppe Righini ORTIVE INSTALLATION
GB2492043A (en) * 2011-06-06 2012-12-26 Inside2Outside Ltd Solar Cell which remains operative when subjected to an applied tensile load
WO2013162376A1 (en) 2012-04-26 2013-10-31 W. Giertsen As Relocatable building removably equipped with flexible solar panels
EP2664231A1 (en) * 2012-05-18 2013-11-20 Taiyo Europe GmbH Clamp profile for film roof construction
EP3090625B1 (en) * 2014-01-02 2021-03-03 Lv, Hao Multi-span greenhouse inflatable thermal insulation system
WO2017153782A3 (en) * 2016-03-11 2017-10-19 Evolve Growing Solutions Limited Structures
CN108370773A (en) * 2018-01-15 2018-08-07 江苏大学 A kind of the vinyl house multilayer Sunshade film regulator control system and method for adjustable shading rate
WO2019215460A1 (en) * 2018-05-11 2019-11-14 Solivus Limited A solar module and a method of making a solar module
FR3081286A1 (en) * 2018-05-28 2019-11-29 Alain JANET MOBILE SHADING SCREEN FOR AGRICULTURAL GREENHOUSES
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US20080034684A1 (en) 2008-02-14
GB0713882D0 (en) 2007-08-29
EP2044633A1 (en) 2009-04-08
GB0614253D0 (en) 2006-08-30

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