WO2015017879A1 - A power generating window assembly - Google Patents

A power generating window assembly Download PDF

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Publication number
WO2015017879A1
WO2015017879A1 PCT/AU2014/000752 AU2014000752W WO2015017879A1 WO 2015017879 A1 WO2015017879 A1 WO 2015017879A1 AU 2014000752 W AU2014000752 W AU 2014000752W WO 2015017879 A1 WO2015017879 A1 WO 2015017879A1
Authority
WO
WIPO (PCT)
Prior art keywords
glass
window assembly
power generating
pane
generating window
Prior art date
Application number
PCT/AU2014/000752
Other languages
French (fr)
Inventor
Michael John Urch
Original Assignee
Michael John Urch
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
Priority claimed from AU2013902940A external-priority patent/AU2013902940A0/en
Application filed by Michael John Urch filed Critical Michael John Urch
Publication of WO2015017879A1 publication Critical patent/WO2015017879A1/en

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Classifications

    • FMECHANICAL ENGINEERING; LIGHTING; HEATING; WEAPONS; BLASTING
    • F03MACHINES OR ENGINES FOR LIQUIDS; WIND, SPRING, OR WEIGHT MOTORS; PRODUCING MECHANICAL POWER OR A REACTIVE PROPULSIVE THRUST, NOT OTHERWISE PROVIDED FOR
    • F03DWIND MOTORS
    • F03D9/00Adaptations of wind motors for special use; Combinations of wind motors with apparatus driven thereby; Wind motors specially adapted for installation in particular locations
    • F03D9/30Wind motors specially adapted for installation in particular locations
    • F03D9/34Wind motors specially adapted for installation in particular locations on stationary objects or on stationary man-made structures
    • CCHEMISTRY; METALLURGY
    • C03GLASS; MINERAL OR SLAG WOOL
    • C03CCHEMICAL COMPOSITION OF GLASSES, GLAZES OR VITREOUS ENAMELS; SURFACE TREATMENT OF GLASS; SURFACE TREATMENT OF FIBRES OR FILAMENTS MADE FROM GLASS, MINERALS OR SLAGS; JOINING GLASS TO GLASS OR OTHER MATERIALS
    • C03C17/00Surface treatment of glass, not in the form of fibres or filaments, by coating
    • C03C17/001General methods for coating; Devices therefor
    • C03C17/002General methods for coating; Devices therefor for flat glass, e.g. float glass
    • CCHEMISTRY; METALLURGY
    • C09DYES; PAINTS; POLISHES; NATURAL RESINS; ADHESIVES; COMPOSITIONS NOT OTHERWISE PROVIDED FOR; APPLICATIONS OF MATERIALS NOT OTHERWISE PROVIDED FOR
    • C09DCOATING COMPOSITIONS, e.g. PAINTS, VARNISHES OR LACQUERS; FILLING PASTES; CHEMICAL PAINT OR INK REMOVERS; INKS; CORRECTING FLUIDS; WOODSTAINS; PASTES OR SOLIDS FOR COLOURING OR PRINTING; USE OF MATERIALS THEREFOR
    • C09D5/00Coating compositions, e.g. paints, varnishes or lacquers, characterised by their physical nature or the effects produced; Filling pastes
    • C09D5/32Radiation-absorbing paints
    • EFIXED CONSTRUCTIONS
    • E06DOORS, WINDOWS, SHUTTERS, OR ROLLER BLINDS IN GENERAL; LADDERS
    • E06BFIXED OR MOVABLE CLOSURES FOR OPENINGS IN BUILDINGS, VEHICLES, FENCES OR LIKE ENCLOSURES IN GENERAL, e.g. DOORS, WINDOWS, BLINDS, GATES
    • E06B7/00Special arrangements or measures in connection with doors or windows
    • E06B7/02Special arrangements or measures in connection with doors or windows for providing ventilation, e.g. through double windows; Arrangement of ventilation roses
    • EFIXED CONSTRUCTIONS
    • E06DOORS, WINDOWS, SHUTTERS, OR ROLLER BLINDS IN GENERAL; LADDERS
    • E06BFIXED OR MOVABLE CLOSURES FOR OPENINGS IN BUILDINGS, VEHICLES, FENCES OR LIKE ENCLOSURES IN GENERAL, e.g. DOORS, WINDOWS, BLINDS, GATES
    • E06B7/00Special arrangements or measures in connection with doors or windows
    • E06B7/02Special arrangements or measures in connection with doors or windows for providing ventilation, e.g. through double windows; Arrangement of ventilation roses
    • E06B7/10Special arrangements or measures in connection with doors or windows for providing ventilation, e.g. through double windows; Arrangement of ventilation roses by special construction of the frame members
    • FMECHANICAL ENGINEERING; LIGHTING; HEATING; WEAPONS; BLASTING
    • F03MACHINES OR ENGINES FOR LIQUIDS; WIND, SPRING, OR WEIGHT MOTORS; PRODUCING MECHANICAL POWER OR A REACTIVE PROPULSIVE THRUST, NOT OTHERWISE PROVIDED FOR
    • F03DWIND MOTORS
    • F03D3/00Wind motors with rotation axis substantially perpendicular to the air flow entering the rotor 
    • F03D3/04Wind motors with rotation axis substantially perpendicular to the air flow entering the rotor  having stationary wind-guiding means, e.g. with shrouds or channels
    • F03D3/0436Wind motors with rotation axis substantially perpendicular to the air flow entering the rotor  having stationary wind-guiding means, e.g. with shrouds or channels for shielding one side of the rotor
    • F03D3/0445Wind motors with rotation axis substantially perpendicular to the air flow entering the rotor  having stationary wind-guiding means, e.g. with shrouds or channels for shielding one side of the rotor the shield being fixed with respect to the wind motor
    • FMECHANICAL ENGINEERING; LIGHTING; HEATING; WEAPONS; BLASTING
    • F03MACHINES OR ENGINES FOR LIQUIDS; WIND, SPRING, OR WEIGHT MOTORS; PRODUCING MECHANICAL POWER OR A REACTIVE PROPULSIVE THRUST, NOT OTHERWISE PROVIDED FOR
    • F03DWIND MOTORS
    • F03D80/00Details, components or accessories not provided for in groups F03D1/00 - F03D17/00
    • FMECHANICAL ENGINEERING; LIGHTING; HEATING; WEAPONS; BLASTING
    • F03MACHINES OR ENGINES FOR LIQUIDS; WIND, SPRING, OR WEIGHT MOTORS; PRODUCING MECHANICAL POWER OR A REACTIVE PROPULSIVE THRUST, NOT OTHERWISE PROVIDED FOR
    • F03GSPRING, WEIGHT, INERTIA OR LIKE MOTORS; MECHANICAL-POWER PRODUCING DEVICES OR MECHANISMS, NOT OTHERWISE PROVIDED FOR OR USING ENERGY SOURCES NOT OTHERWISE PROVIDED FOR
    • F03G6/00Devices for producing mechanical power from solar energy
    • F03G6/02Devices for producing mechanical power from solar energy using a single state working fluid
    • F03G6/04Devices for producing mechanical power from solar energy using a single state working fluid gaseous
    • FMECHANICAL ENGINEERING; LIGHTING; HEATING; WEAPONS; BLASTING
    • F24HEATING; RANGES; VENTILATING
    • F24SSOLAR HEAT COLLECTORS; SOLAR HEAT SYSTEMS
    • F24S10/00Solar heat collectors using working fluids
    • F24S10/30Solar heat collectors using working fluids with means for exchanging heat between two or more working fluids
    • FMECHANICAL ENGINEERING; LIGHTING; HEATING; WEAPONS; BLASTING
    • F24HEATING; RANGES; VENTILATING
    • F24SSOLAR HEAT COLLECTORS; SOLAR HEAT SYSTEMS
    • F24S10/00Solar heat collectors using working fluids
    • F24S10/50Solar heat collectors using working fluids the working fluids being conveyed between plates
    • FMECHANICAL ENGINEERING; LIGHTING; HEATING; WEAPONS; BLASTING
    • F24HEATING; RANGES; VENTILATING
    • F24SSOLAR HEAT COLLECTORS; SOLAR HEAT SYSTEMS
    • F24S20/00Solar heat collectors specially adapted for particular uses or environments
    • F24S20/60Solar heat collectors integrated in fixed constructions, e.g. in buildings
    • F24S20/63Solar heat collectors integrated in fixed constructions, e.g. in buildings in the form of windows
    • FMECHANICAL ENGINEERING; LIGHTING; HEATING; WEAPONS; BLASTING
    • F24HEATING; RANGES; VENTILATING
    • F24SSOLAR HEAT COLLECTORS; SOLAR HEAT SYSTEMS
    • F24S40/00Safety or protection arrangements of solar heat collectors; Preventing malfunction of solar heat collectors
    • F24S40/50Preventing overheating or overpressure
    • F24S40/55Arrangements for cooling, e.g. by using external heat dissipating means or internal cooling circuits
    • FMECHANICAL ENGINEERING; LIGHTING; HEATING; WEAPONS; BLASTING
    • F24HEATING; RANGES; VENTILATING
    • F24SSOLAR HEAT COLLECTORS; SOLAR HEAT SYSTEMS
    • F24S70/00Details of absorbing elements
    • F24S70/20Details of absorbing elements characterised by absorbing coatings; characterised by surface treatment for increasing absorption
    • F24S70/225Details of absorbing elements characterised by absorbing coatings; characterised by surface treatment for increasing absorption for spectrally selective absorption
    • EFIXED CONSTRUCTIONS
    • E06DOORS, WINDOWS, SHUTTERS, OR ROLLER BLINDS IN GENERAL; LADDERS
    • E06BFIXED OR MOVABLE CLOSURES FOR OPENINGS IN BUILDINGS, VEHICLES, FENCES OR LIKE ENCLOSURES IN GENERAL, e.g. DOORS, WINDOWS, BLINDS, GATES
    • E06B7/00Special arrangements or measures in connection with doors or windows
    • E06B7/02Special arrangements or measures in connection with doors or windows for providing ventilation, e.g. through double windows; Arrangement of ventilation roses
    • E06B2007/023Air flow induced by fan
    • EFIXED CONSTRUCTIONS
    • E06DOORS, WINDOWS, SHUTTERS, OR ROLLER BLINDS IN GENERAL; LADDERS
    • E06BFIXED OR MOVABLE CLOSURES FOR OPENINGS IN BUILDINGS, VEHICLES, FENCES OR LIKE ENCLOSURES IN GENERAL, e.g. DOORS, WINDOWS, BLINDS, GATES
    • E06B7/00Special arrangements or measures in connection with doors or windows
    • E06B7/02Special arrangements or measures in connection with doors or windows for providing ventilation, e.g. through double windows; Arrangement of ventilation roses
    • E06B2007/026Special arrangements or measures in connection with doors or windows for providing ventilation, e.g. through double windows; Arrangement of ventilation roses with air flow between panes
    • FMECHANICAL ENGINEERING; LIGHTING; HEATING; WEAPONS; BLASTING
    • F05INDEXING SCHEMES RELATING TO ENGINES OR PUMPS IN VARIOUS SUBCLASSES OF CLASSES F01-F04
    • F05BINDEXING SCHEME RELATING TO WIND, SPRING, WEIGHT, INERTIA OR LIKE MOTORS, TO MACHINES OR ENGINES FOR LIQUIDS COVERED BY SUBCLASSES F03B, F03D AND F03G
    • F05B2260/00Function
    • F05B2260/20Heat transfer, e.g. cooling
    • F05B2260/24Heat transfer, e.g. cooling for draft enhancement in chimneys, using solar or other heat sources
    • YGENERAL 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
    • Y02TECHNOLOGIES OR APPLICATIONS FOR MITIGATION OR ADAPTATION AGAINST CLIMATE CHANGE
    • Y02BCLIMATE CHANGE MITIGATION TECHNOLOGIES RELATED TO BUILDINGS, e.g. HOUSING, HOUSE APPLIANCES OR RELATED END-USER APPLICATIONS
    • Y02B10/00Integration of renewable energy sources in buildings
    • Y02B10/20Solar thermal
    • YGENERAL 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
    • Y02TECHNOLOGIES OR APPLICATIONS FOR MITIGATION OR ADAPTATION AGAINST CLIMATE CHANGE
    • Y02BCLIMATE CHANGE MITIGATION TECHNOLOGIES RELATED TO BUILDINGS, e.g. HOUSING, HOUSE APPLIANCES OR RELATED END-USER APPLICATIONS
    • Y02B10/00Integration of renewable energy sources in buildings
    • Y02B10/70Hybrid systems, e.g. uninterruptible or back-up power supplies integrating renewable energies
    • YGENERAL 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
    • Y02TECHNOLOGIES OR APPLICATIONS FOR MITIGATION OR ADAPTATION AGAINST CLIMATE CHANGE
    • Y02EREDUCTION OF GREENHOUSE GAS [GHG] EMISSIONS, RELATED TO ENERGY GENERATION, TRANSMISSION OR DISTRIBUTION
    • Y02E10/00Energy generation through renewable energy sources
    • Y02E10/40Solar thermal energy, e.g. solar towers
    • Y02E10/44Heat exchange systems
    • YGENERAL 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
    • Y02TECHNOLOGIES OR APPLICATIONS FOR MITIGATION OR ADAPTATION AGAINST CLIMATE CHANGE
    • Y02EREDUCTION OF GREENHOUSE GAS [GHG] EMISSIONS, RELATED TO ENERGY GENERATION, TRANSMISSION OR DISTRIBUTION
    • Y02E10/00Energy generation through renewable energy sources
    • Y02E10/40Solar thermal energy, e.g. solar towers
    • Y02E10/46Conversion of thermal power into mechanical power, e.g. Rankine, Stirling or solar thermal engines
    • YGENERAL 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
    • Y02TECHNOLOGIES OR APPLICATIONS FOR MITIGATION OR ADAPTATION AGAINST CLIMATE CHANGE
    • Y02EREDUCTION OF GREENHOUSE GAS [GHG] EMISSIONS, RELATED TO ENERGY GENERATION, TRANSMISSION OR DISTRIBUTION
    • Y02E10/00Energy generation through renewable energy sources
    • Y02E10/70Wind energy
    • Y02E10/728Onshore wind turbines
    • YGENERAL 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
    • Y02TECHNOLOGIES OR APPLICATIONS FOR MITIGATION OR ADAPTATION AGAINST CLIMATE CHANGE
    • Y02EREDUCTION OF GREENHOUSE GAS [GHG] EMISSIONS, RELATED TO ENERGY GENERATION, TRANSMISSION OR DISTRIBUTION
    • Y02E10/00Energy generation through renewable energy sources
    • Y02E10/70Wind energy
    • Y02E10/74Wind turbines with rotation axis perpendicular to the wind direction

Definitions

  • the present invention relates to a power generating window assembly.
  • the present invention finds application in powe generating window assemblies for new buildings ( " including residential., commercial and industrial) and also in retrofittable
  • a building can be made more energy efficient by maximising the visible light entering the building with the use of large windows.
  • this also means that large amounts of infrared radiation (i.e. heat) enter and escape from the building, adding a large load to air conditioning and heating systems respectively.
  • tinting films to wmdows to reduce the thermal effects of sunlight entering a building-
  • this typically also reduces visible light, rather than infrared heat, and adds to lighting requirements without substantially reducing air conditioning or heating requirements.
  • the present invention provides a power generating window assembl including:
  • a first pane of glas having top and bottom edges
  • a second pane of glass having top and bottom edges and mounted relative to the first pane of glass such that a space is formed therebetween;
  • a surface coating on the first pane of glass or the second pane of glass adapted to substantially permit the passage of visible light therethrough whilst substantially absorbing infrared light and ultraviolet light;
  • the window assembly is adapted for installation with the pane of glass having the coating .nearest, to the Sun.
  • the window assembly is adapted for installation with the pane of glass having the coating on the outside of a building.
  • the coating is preferably on the surface of the pane of glass that faces into the space.
  • the window assembly is adapted for installation with the pane of glass having the coating furthest from the Sun.
  • the window assembly is adapted for installation with the pane of glass having the coating on the inside of a building.
  • the coating is preferably on the surface of the pane of glass t hat races into the building.
  • the first and the second panes of glass have opposed peripheral edges that are substantially sealed with respect to each other, thereby enclosing the space.
  • the first and the second panes of glass have respective opposed side edges between their said top and bottom edges, wherein the adjacent side edges of the first and the second panes of glass are substantially sealed with respect to each other, thereby enclosing the space in a channel with an open upper end and an open lower end.
  • the assembly preferably includes at least one scoop or duct adapted to direct air updrafts and/or cross drafts towards and/or into the inlet
  • the air current driven generator is preferably also adapted for powered use as a suction device.
  • the assembly preferably includes a controller adapted to energise the air current driven generator as a suction device responsive to the second pane of glass reaching and/or exceeding a predetermined temperature.
  • the air current driven generator is preferably a tangential blower, most preferably having a width that is approximately the same as the width of the window assembly.
  • the air current driven generator is an axial fan or a centrifugal fan.
  • the assembly preferably includes at least one ejector, downstream of the air current driven generator.
  • the ejector(s) is/are preferably slotted.
  • the assembly preferably includes at least one heat exchanger between the outlet and the air current driven generator.
  • the assembly preferably includes at least one wall collector in a heat exchanging relationship with the heat exchanger.
  • the assembly preferably includes at least one reverse configured Pettier thermoelectric cooler module between the outlet and the air current driven generator.
  • the at least one heat exchanger and/or the at least one wall collector and/or at least one reverse configured Peltier thermoelectric cooler are preferably connected to a heat engine generator.
  • the heat engine generator is preferably an organic Rankine cycle type, a steam turbine Rankine cycle type, a reverse Peltier thermoelectric module, a low vapour expansion engine type or a Stirling engine type.
  • the present invention provides a power generating window assembly including:
  • a first pane of glass having top and bottom edges
  • a second pane of glass having top and bottom edges and mounted relative to the fust pane of glass such that space is formed therebetween;
  • At least one scoop or duct adapted to direct air updrafts and/or cross drafts towards and/or into the inlet:
  • an air current driven generator in fluid communication, with and, in use, drivablc by a flow of air leaving the outlet
  • the air current driven generator is preferably a tangential blower, most preferably having a width that is approximately the same as the width of the window assembly.
  • the air current driven generator is an axial, fan or a centrifugal fan.
  • the assembly preferably includes at least one ejector, downstream of the air current driven generator.
  • the ejector(s) is/are preferably slotted.
  • the present invention provides a power generating window assembly including: a first pane of glass having top and bottom edges;
  • a second pane of glass having top and bottom edges and mounted relative to the first pane of glass such that a substantially fluid tight space is farmed therebetween;
  • the coa ting adapted to substantially permit the passage of visible light therethrough whilst substantially absorbing infrared light and ultraviolet light;
  • a fluid inlet in fluid communication wit the space at or near the bottom edges of the first and second panes of glass
  • fluid outlet is in fluid communication with a heat engine generator.
  • the window assembly preferably includes a heat exchanger in fluid communication between the fluid outlet and the heat engine generator.
  • the heat exchanger is preferably at least one wall collector.
  • the window- assembly preferably includes an air current driven generator in fluid communication with and, in use, driyable by air updrafts and/or cross drafts towards.
  • the air current driven generator preferably includes at least one ejector downstream thereof.
  • the ejector(s) is/are preferably slotted.
  • the window assembly is adapted for installation with the pane of glass having the coatin nearest to the Sun.
  • the window assembly is adapted for installation with the pane of glass having the coating on the outside of a building.
  • the coating is preferably on the surface of the pane of glass that faces into the space.
  • the window assembly is adapted for installation with the pane of glass having the coating furthest from the Sun.
  • the window assembly is adapted for installation with the pane of glass having the coating on the inside of a building.
  • the coating is preferably on the surface of the pane of glass that faces into the building.
  • the first and the second panes of glass have opposed peripheral edges that are substantially sealed with respect to each other, thereby enclosing the space.
  • the present invention provides a method of power generation in a window assembly
  • the window assembly including:
  • a .first pane of glass having top and bottom edges
  • a second pane of glass having top and bottom edges and mounted relative to the first pane of glass such that a space is formed therebetween;
  • the coating adapted to substantially permit the passage of visible light therethrough whilst substantially absorbing infrared light and ultraviolet light,
  • the method including the following steps:
  • the method preferably includes directing air updrafts and/or cross drafts towards and/or into the inlet, most preferably with at least one scoop or duct
  • the method preferably includes installing' the windo assembl with the pane of glass having the coatin nearest to the Sun.
  • the method preferably includes installing the window assembly with the pane of glass having the coating on the outside of a building.
  • the coatin is preferably on the surface of the pane of glass that faces into the space.
  • the method preferably includes installing the window assembly with the pane of glass having the coating furthest, from the Sun.
  • the method preferably includes instal ling the. window assembly with the pane of glass having the coating on the inside of a building.
  • the coati ng is preferably on the surface of the pane of glass that faces into the building.
  • the method preferably includes sealing opposed peripheral edges of the first pane of glass and the second pane of glass with respect to each other to thereby enclose the space.
  • the present invention provides a retrofittable power generating window assembl including;
  • a first pane of glass having a surface coating thereon which is adapted to substantial ly permit the passage of visible light therethrough whilst substantially absorbing infrared light and ultraviolet light;
  • a mounting arrangement adapted for fixing the pane of glass to the exterior of second pane of glass forming -part of an existing building window with a space between the outer face of the second pane of glass and the inner face of the first pane of glass.
  • the coating is preferably on the surface of the first pane of glass that faces into the space.
  • the first and the second panes of glass have opposed peripheral edges that are substantially sealed with respect to each other, thereby enclosing the space.
  • the first and the second panes of glass have respective opposed side edges between their said top and bottom edges, wherein the adjacent side edges of the first and the second panes of glass are substantially sealed with respect to each other, thereby enclosing the space in a channel with an open upper end an open lower end.
  • the retrofittable power generating window assembl preferably further incl des an. inlet in fluid communication with the space at or near the bottom edges of the first and second panes of glass, an outlet in fluid communication with the space at or near the top edges of the first and second panes of glass, and an air current driven generator in fluid communication with and, in use, drivable by a flow of air leaving the outlet.
  • the assembly preferably includes at least one scoop or duct adapted to direct air updrafts and/or cross drafts towards and/or into the inlet.
  • the air current driven generator is preferably also adapted for powered use as a suction device.
  • the assembly preferably includes a controller adapted to energise the air current driven generator as a suction device responsive to the second pane of glass reaching and/or exceeding a predetermined temperature.
  • the air current driven generator is preferabl a tangential blower, most preferably having a width that is approxi mately the same as the width of the window assembly.
  • the air current driven generator is an axial fan or a centrifugal fan.
  • the assembly preferably includes at least one ejector, downstream of the air current drive generator.
  • the ejector(s) is/are preferabl slotted.
  • the assembly preferably includes at least one heat exchanger between the outlet a d the air current driven generator.
  • the assembly preferably includes at least one wall collector in a heat exchanging relationship with the heat exchanger.
  • the assembly preferably includes at least one reverse configured Peltier thermoelectric cooler module between die outlet and the air current driven generator.
  • the at least one heat exchanger and/or the at least one wall collector and/or at least one reverse configured Peltier thermoelectric cooler are preferably connected to a heat engine generator.
  • the heat engine generator is preferably an organic Rankine cycle type, a steam turbine Rankine cycle type, a reverse Peltier thermoelectric module, a low vapour expansion engine type or a Stirling engine type.
  • Fig, I is a schematic cross sectional side view of a first embodiment of a window assembly
  • Figs. 2a and 2b are a schematic cross sectional side view of a second embodiment of a power, generating window assembly, pre- and post-installation respectively;
  • Fig. 3 is a schematic cross sectional side views of a third embodiment of a power generating window assembly
  • Fig, 4 is a schematic cross sectional side view of a fourth embodiment of power
  • FIG. 5 is a schematic cross sectional side view of a fifth embodiment of a power generating window assembly
  • FIG. 6 is a schematic cross sectional side view of a sixth embodiment of a power generating window assembly
  • FIG. 7 is a schematic cross sectional side view of a seventh embodiment of a power generating window assembly
  • FIG. 8 is a schematic cross sectional side view of an eighth embodiment of a power generating window assembly.
  • FIG. 9 is a schematic cross sectional side view of a ninth embodiment of a power generating windo assembly.
  • Fig. 1 shows the Sun 10 emitting sunlight in the form of visible light 1 a, infrared light/radiation (i.e. heat) 12b and ultraviolet light 12c.
  • the sunlight is incident on a wall 14 of a building that, has an exterior surface 14a and an interior surface 14b.
  • a first embodiment of a power generating window assembly, indicated generally by the reference numeral 16, is positioned within an opening in the wall 14.
  • the window assembly 16 includes a first pane of glass 18 and a second pane of glass 20, which are installed, with a space 22 therebetween.
  • a typical size of the first and second panes of glass 18 and 20 are 0,6 m wide, 1.2 ro high and 0.04 m deep, with a space 22 therebetween which is 0.02m deep.
  • a coating 24 is applied to the surface of the second pane of glass 20 that faces into the space 22.
  • the coating 24 substantially permits the passage of visible light 12a therethrough, whilst substantially absorbing the infrared radiation 12b and the ultraviolet light 32c.
  • a preferred example of the coating 24 is product called Zerocoat and is distributed by 21st Global Pty Ltd of Salamander Bay, " New South Wales, Australia.
  • This product is applied with a bonding polymer thai is self-leveling. This product hardens to the same hardness as glass. It is a single formula using an absorber of nano-partieles ink developed by Sumitomo Metal and Mining. The formulation of the coating can be adjusted to balance the relative amounts of infrared radiation absorption and visible light admittance.
  • Suitable products for the coating 24 are as follows: 3M Solar Control Films, distributed by 3M Australia of North Ryde, Australia; Thin Film Coatings - Custom, distributed by Reynard Corporation of San Clemente, California, USA; and Heat-reflective Coated Glass, distributed by Xinyi Glass of Phase 2, Hong Kong.
  • the first and second panes of glass 18 and 20 are sealed with respect to each other along their side edges such that the space 22 is in the form of a vertical channel or passage, having a lower inlet 32 and an upper outlet 34.
  • the assembly 16 includes scoops or ducts 36 adjacent the inlet 32. to assist in directing air updrafts and or cross-drafts towards and/or into the inlet 32.
  • the assembly 1.6 also includes an air current driven electrical generator, in the form of a tangential blower 37 mounted downstream of the outlet 34.
  • the blower 37 is about the same width as the first and second panes of glass 18 and 20.
  • An ejector 38 is mounted downstream of the outlet of the blower 34.
  • the ejector 38 is preferably slotted and is similar to that described in Australian provisional patent application no. 2013901 93.
  • the assembly 16 also includes a temperature gauge 40 associated with the second pane of glass 20 and a magnetic inductor 42 associated with the blower 37.
  • the electricity generated is communicated to other parts of the bui lding via the magnetic inductor 42 or b a simple wired comiection (not shown).
  • Alternative wireless electricity transmission mechanisms Such as laser or microwave (not shown) could also be used instead of the magnetic inductor 42.
  • a typical installation of multiple units of the window assemblies 16 in a high rise building can generate u to 500 watts per square metre of solar thermal energy plus more than a further 250 watts per square metre of wind mechanical energy ( at 50 metres high).
  • the 500 wa tts o f thermal energy equates to more than 300 watts pe square metre of thermal energy blocked from entering the building which can be harnessed and con verted to more than 100 watts of electricity.
  • the 250 watts of mechanical wind energy can also be converted to more than 1.00 watts of electricity.
  • more than 200 watts of electricity is provided, whilst the 300 watts of blocked, thermal energy reduces the air conditioning system electricity requirements by about 100 watts.
  • the assembly 16 provides up to 300 watts per square metre of nett electricity generated and saved. This figure can be higher in hot and windy climates.
  • the thermal radiation from internal heating is smaller than from the Sun.
  • a combination of some Winter sunlight combined with significant energy from thermal losses through the window combined with the mechanical wind energy amounts to similar amount of energy saved and generated as in Summer.
  • the temperature gauge 40 is connected to a simple temperature controller (not shown) which sensors the temperature of the glass pane 20 to ensure that it does not exceed at predetermined set point at which it could crack, if the set point is reached, the blower 37 is energised for a period of time, turning it into a suction fan, to draw air though the space to cool the glass pane 20 down to a safe temperature.
  • the economics of a power generation device are a major concern and the window assembly 16 can be constructed from relat vely simple and inexpensive components, and can generate relattvely large amoonts of electricit tor relati vely long amounts of time. This equates to a much more attractive and cost-effective device.
  • the window assembly 16 addresses two major issues for power generation and consumption. That is, it significantly reduces the amount of energy required by a building, whilst also generating meaningful amounts of power (typicall y more than 300W per square meter). Additionally, most power is consumed on a hot sunny day and this is when most power is generated, thereby importantly matching the power supply to meet the demand.
  • Figs. 2a and 2b show a second embodiment of a power generating window assembly 60.
  • the assembly 60 is similar to the assembly 16 described with reference to Fig. I and like features have been indicated with like reference numerals.
  • the assembly 60 is best suited to converting an existing window into a power generating window assembly similar to that previously described, in the assembly 60, the coating 24 is applied to the inside facing surface of a third window pane 62.
  • the third window pane 62 forms sub-assembly with the scoops 36, the blower 37, die magnetic inductor 42 and th temperature gaug 40.
  • This sub-assembly is then mounted to he o tside of the existing window panes 18/20 with a space 64 therebetween.
  • the operation of the assembly 60 is identical to that described with reference to the assembly 30 with the magnetic inductor 42 supplying energy to further magnetic inductors 6 for powering lighting 68 and other components (not shown) and/or supply excess energy back to the building switchboard 70, which can then be fed into the electricity grid to produce income,
  • Fig. 3 shows a third embodiment of a power generating window assembly SO.
  • the assembly 80 is similar to the assembly 16 described with reference to Fig. 1 and like features has been indicated with like reference numerals.
  • the system 80 includes a heat exchanger 82 positioned between the outlet 34 and the blower 37 in a heat exchanging relationship with the heated, air 44 moving upwardly through the space 22.
  • the heat exchanger 82 is connected to a heat engine generator (not shown) by inlet line 84 and outlet line 86 for generation of additional electricity to that previously described.
  • the operation of the assembly 80 is similar to that described with reference to the assembly 16 except for the additional electricity generation from the heat exchanger 82 and the heat engine generator (not shown).
  • There are numerous different types of heat engine generators suitable for this application including an organic Rankine cycle type, a steam turbine Rankine cycle type, a reverse Peltier thermoelectric module, a low vapour expansion engine type or a Stirling engine type.
  • Fig, 4 shows a fourth embodiment of a power generating window assembly 100 which is similar to the system 80 previously described.
  • a Peltier thermoelectric cooler 102 working in reverse that is in a heat exchanging in relationship with the heated air 44 traveling upwardly through the gap 22.
  • the passage of the heated air 44 past the cooler 102 generates an additional amount of electrical energy that is typically twice the efficiency and double the amount generated compared to just heating and expanding the air as described in the assembly 16 with reference to Fig. 1 .
  • Fig. 5 shows a fifth, embodiment of a power generating window assembly 120.
  • the assembly 120 is similar to the assembly 16 described with reference to Fig. 1 and like features have been indicated with like reference numerals.
  • the assembly 120 includes a closed circuit heat engine generator, indicated generally by the reference numeral 122.
  • the generator 122 includes a fluid pump 124 which pressurises a fluid such that it is at a medium pressure and low temperature at a junction measured by a pressure sensor 126 and a temperature sensor 128. At that junction, the fluid enters a concentrated solar collector, in the form a flat plate 130 with fluid circuits inside and coated with a heat absorbent coating such as the Zerocoat previously mentioned or a carbon nanotube coating.
  • a traditional concave reflector mirror can be used to heat a small collector or a flat plate heat exchanger.
  • the collector 130 tracks the Sun 10 for maximum heat absorption and the fluid is heated to a very high temperature, typically of several hundred degrees Celsius. This also causes the pressure of the fluid to increase to a very high level, typically to several bars.
  • Tire fluid at this relatively high temperature and pressure is measured by a pressure sensor 130 and a temperature sensor 132.
  • the fluid is then supplied to an expander turbine 134 causm it to rotate and drive a generator (not shown) which generates electricity .
  • the fluid exiting the expander turbine .134 is at a low pressure and a medium temperature, as measured by a pressure sensor 136 and a temperature sensor 138.
  • the fluid then enters a condenser 140 where it is cooled to a low temperature gas (for a reverse refrigeration cycle-not shown) or to a low temperature liquid (for an organic Rankine-cycle as shown).
  • the condenser 140 has an associated temperature sensor 141.
  • the condenser 140 has a fan 142 which is electrically or mechanically coupled to the pump 124.
  • a clutch or electronic controller (not shown) is configured, such that when the pump 124 operates, the condenser fen 142 operates to provide the required cooling.
  • the fluid is at medium pressure and Sow temperature and the fluid can optionally branch off to a valve 143 and integrate with an ice maker plus cold thermal energy storage tank 144 and or integrate or retrofit to a new or existing air conditioning (or refrigeration) system 146.
  • the infrastructure and refrigerant fluid of the ice maker system 144 or the air conditioning system 146 i util ised, to reduce capital costs, particularly if such components already exist in a building.
  • Two non-return valves 148 and 150 are used to stop fluid entering the ice maker or air conditioning system from the wrong direction. Integration with an existing air conditioning system advantageously reduces the capital costs overall and significantly reduces operational costs, particularly in Winter or colder seasons where in any heat generated from the collectors can be utilised for off-loading the air conditioning system working as a reverse cycle heat pump.
  • Fig. 6 shows a sixth embodiment of a window generating assembly! 6G.
  • the assembly 160 is similar to the assembly 120 described with reference to Fig. 5 and like features have been indicated with like reference numerals.
  • the assembly 160 also includes wall mounted solar collec tor 162 and a roof mounted so lar collector 164 which are al so connected to, and provide heated fluid to, the closed circuit heat engine generator 122, thereby increasing its power output.
  • a heat exchanger (not shown ) can be used to capture the waste heat from a air conditioning or refrigeration system condenser or from other waste heat from industrial processes thereby .further increasing the power output of the heat engine generator 122
  • Fig. 7 shows a seventh embodiment of a window generating assembly 180.
  • the system 1.80 is similar to the assembly 16 described with reference to Fig. I and like features have been indicated with like reference numerals.
  • the coating 24 is not utilised and, as result, the Sun's infrared radiation 12b can also pass into the building.
  • the air 44 within the space 22 is thus heated to a lesser extent than would be the ease with the window assembly 16.
  • the upward passage of the heated air 44 is also aided by an air updrafts and/or cross drafts 46.
  • the assembly 180 therefore typically produces less energy per square meter than the assembly 16.
  • the assembly 180 finds particular application in very cold climates where there is little solar radiation 12b.
  • Fig. 8 shows an eighth embodiment of a power generating window assembly 200.
  • the assembly 200 is similar to the assembly 16 described with reference to Fig. 1 and like features ' have been indicated with like reference numerals.
  • fluid (not air) is heated during its passage through the space 22 for electricity generation via a closed circuit heat engine generator, such as the generator 122 described with references to Fig. 5.
  • a closed circuit heat engine generator such as the generator 122 described with references to Fig. 5.
  • an air updrafts and/or cross drafts are directly into the inlet of the blower 37.
  • Fig. 9 shows a ninth embodiment of power generating window assembly 220,
  • the assembly 220 is similar to the assembly 16 described with reference to Fig. I and like features have been indicated with like reference numerals.
  • about the lower third of the side edges between the first and second glass panes 18 and 20 are also open and provide extra side inlets 222 and 224, in addition to the lower edge inlet 32.
  • scoop/ducts 36 also include side extensions 226 and 228 to assist in directing air updrafts and/or cross drafts 46 into the side inlets 222 and 224.
  • the side extensions 226 and 228 are will capture more cross drafts to provide significantly more power to drive the blower 37, particularly in densely packed cities, where winds flow around buildings creating a "wind tunnel" effect.

Abstract

A power generating window assembly (16) including a first pane of glass (18), a second pane of glass (20), a surface coating (24) on the on the first pane of glass (18) or the second pane of glass (20), an inlet (32), an outlet (34) and an air current driven generator (37), The first pane of glass (24) has top and bottom edges. The second pane of glass (20) has top and bottom edges and is mounted relative to the first pane of glass (18) such that a space (22) is formed therebetween. The surface coating (24) is adapted to substantially permit the passage of visible light therethrough whilst substantially absorbing infrared light and ultraviolet light. The inlet (32) is in fluid communication with the space (22) at or near the bottom edges of the first and second panes of glass. The outlet (34) is in fluid communication with the space (22) at or near the top edges of the first and second panes of glass. The air current driven generator (37) is in fluid communication with and, in use, drivable by a flow of air leaving the outlet (34).

Description

A POWER GENERATING WINDOW ASSEMBLY
Field
[0001] The present invention relates to a power generating window assembly.
[0002] The present invention finds application in powe generating window assemblies for new buildings ("including residential., commercial and industrial) and also in retrofittable
improvements to such existing buildings.
Background
[0003] The world's energy requirements are increasing at rapid rates, especially in developing countries. To date, the world has relied primarily on burning fossil fuels to meet this requirement. However, climate change, due to a build-up of greenhouse gases in the atmosphere, and energy security are now critical issues for governments. One fossil fuel alternative is nuclear energy. However, nuclear energy is expensive, politically sensitive and is not a renewable resource. Further, the cleaning up of emissions from fossil fuel and nuclear power stations is expensive. As a result, energy costs are expected to rise substantially,
[0004] The global population is also increasing at rapid rates, with the majority living and working in large cities. This in turn has led to more densely populated cities and increased building heights.
[0005] As buildings increase in size, so do their energy requirements (for internal lighting, air conditioning and heating requirements).
[0006] Two fossil fuel/nuclear energy alternatives that are renewable are wind and solar. The average maximum amount of solar energy striking the earth per square .meter on. a sunny day is typically 520W of infrared radiation (heat), 440W of visible light and about 30 W of ultraviolet light. Wind at heights of 50m (being the hei ght of many urban environment buildings ), typically produces kinetic energy of more than 500 W per square meter.
[0007] A building can be made more energy efficient by maximising the visible light entering the building with the use of large windows. However, this also means that large amounts of infrared radiation (i.e. heat) enter and escape from the building, adding a large load to air conditioning and heating systems respectively.
[0008] it is known to apply tinting films to wmdows to reduce the thermal effects of sunlight entering a building- However, this typically also reduces visible light, rather than infrared heat, and adds to lighting requirements without substantially reducing air conditioning or heating requirements.
[0009] It is also known to apply thin-film photovoltaic cells, or photovoltaic cell coatings, to windows. However, whilst this generates small amounts of electricity they also, like window tinting, reduce the amount of visible light entering the building while doin very little to reduce the infrared heat. For example, current photovoltaic solar ceils struggle to beat 8% efficiency and, because windows are usually vertical, the scattering of sunlight hitting the photovoltaic solar cells mean that they struggle to generate more than 8W per square meter.
Object of the Invention
[0010] It is an object of the present invention to substantially overcome or at leas t ameliorate one or more of the above disadvantage and/or provide window assemblies which reduce a building's energy consumption.
Summary of Invention
[003 1] Accordingly, in a first aspect, the present invention provides a power generating window assembl including:
a first pane of glas having top and bottom edges;
a second pane of glass having top and bottom edges and mounted relative to the first pane of glass such that a space is formed therebetween;
a surface coating on the first pane of glass or the second pane of glass, the coating adapted to substantially permit the passage of visible light therethrough whilst substantially absorbing infrared light and ultraviolet light;
an inl et in fluid communication with the space at or near the bottom edges of the first and second panes of glass;
an outlet in fluid communication with the space at or near the top edges of the first and second panes of glass; and an air current driven generator in fluid corronunication with and, in use, drivable by a flo w of air leaving the outlet.
[0012] In one form, the window assembly is adapted for installation with the pane of glass having the coating .nearest, to the Sun. Preferably, the window assembly is adapted for installation with the pane of glass having the coating on the outside of a building. In this form, the coating is preferably on the surface of the pane of glass that faces into the space.
[0013] In another form, the window assembly is adapted for installation with the pane of glass having the coating furthest from the Sun. Preferably, the window assembly is adapted for installation with the pane of glass having the coating on the inside of a building. In this form, the coating is preferably on the surface of the pane of glass t hat races into the building.
[0014] Preferably, the first and the second panes of glass have opposed peripheral edges that are substantially sealed with respect to each other, thereby enclosing the space.
[0035] Preferably, the first and the second panes of glass have respective opposed side edges between their said top and bottom edges, wherein the adjacent side edges of the first and the second panes of glass are substantially sealed with respect to each other, thereby enclosing the space in a channel with an open upper end and an open lower end.
[0016] The assembly preferably includes at least one scoop or duct adapted to direct air updrafts and/or cross drafts towards and/or into the inlet
[0017] The air current driven generator is preferably also adapted for powered use as a suction device. The assembly preferably includes a controller adapted to energise the air current driven generator as a suction device responsive to the second pane of glass reaching and/or exceeding a predetermined temperature.
[0018] The air current driven generator is preferably a tangential blower, most preferably having a width that is approximately the same as the width of the window assembly. Alternatively, the air current driven generator is an axial fan or a centrifugal fan.
[0019] The assembly preferably includes at least one ejector, downstream of the air current driven generator. The ejector(s) is/are preferably slotted. [0020] The assembly preferably includes at least one heat exchanger between the outlet and the air current driven generator. The assembly preferably includes at least one wall collector in a heat exchanging relationship with the heat exchanger. The assembly preferably includes at least one reverse configured Pettier thermoelectric cooler module between the outlet and the air current driven generator.
[0021] The at least one heat exchanger and/or the at least one wall collector and/or at least one reverse configured Peltier thermoelectric cooler are preferably connected to a heat engine generator. The heat engine generator is preferably an organic Rankine cycle type, a steam turbine Rankine cycle type, a reverse Peltier thermoelectric module, a low vapour expansion engine type or a Stirling engine type.
[0022] In a second aspect, the present invention provides a power generating window assembly including:
a first pane of glass having top and bottom edges;
a second pane of glass having top and bottom edges and mounted relative to the fust pane of glass such that space is formed therebetween;
an inlet in fluid communication with the space at or near the bottom edges of the first and second panes of glass;
at least one scoop or duct adapted to direct air updrafts and/or cross drafts towards and/or into the inlet:
an outlet i fluid communication with the space at or near the top edges of the first and second panes of glass; and
an air current driven generator in fluid communication, with and, in use, drivablc by a flow of air leaving the outlet,
[0023] The air current driven generator is preferably a tangential blower, most preferably having a width that is approximately the same as the width of the window assembly. Alteraatively, the air current driven generator is an axial, fan or a centrifugal fan.
[0024] The assembly preferably includes at least one ejector, downstream of the air current driven generator. The ejector(s) is/are preferably slotted.
[0025] in a third aspect, the present invention provides a power generating window assembly including: a first pane of glass having top and bottom edges;
a second pane of glass having top and bottom edges and mounted relative to the first pane of glass such that a substantially fluid tight space is farmed therebetween;
a surface coating on the first pane of glass or the second pane of glass, the coa ting adapted to substantially permit the passage of visible light therethrough whilst substantially absorbing infrared light and ultraviolet light;
a fluid inlet in fluid communication wit the space at or near the bottom edges of the first and second panes of glass;
a fluid outlet in fluid communication with the space at or near the top edges of the first and second panes of glass,
wherein the fluid outlet is in fluid communication with a heat engine generator.
[0026] The window assembly preferably includes a heat exchanger in fluid communication between the fluid outlet and the heat engine generator. The heat exchanger is preferably at least one wall collector.
[0027] The window- assembly preferably includes an air current driven generator in fluid communication with and, in use, driyable by air updrafts and/or cross drafts towards. The air current driven generator preferably includes at least one ejector downstream thereof. The ejector(s) is/are preferably slotted.
[0028] In one form, the window assembly is adapted for installation with the pane of glass having the coatin nearest to the Sun. Preferably, the window assembly is adapted for installation with the pane of glass having the coating on the outside of a building. In this form, the coating is preferably on the surface of the pane of glass that faces into the space.
[0029] In another form, the window assembly is adapted for installation with the pane of glass having the coating furthest from the Sun. Preferably, the window assembly is adapted for installation with the pane of glass having the coating on the inside of a building. In this form, the coating is preferably on the surface of the pane of glass that faces into the building.
[0030] Preferably, the first and the second panes of glass have opposed peripheral edges that are substantially sealed with respect to each other, thereby enclosing the space. [0031] In a fourth aspect, the present invention provides a method of power generation in a window assembly,
the window assembly including:
a .first pane of glass having top and bottom edges;
a second pane of glass having top and bottom edges and mounted relative to the first pane of glass such that a space is formed therebetween; and
a surface coating on the first pane of glass or the second pane of glass, the coating adapted to substantially permit the passage of visible light therethrough whilst substantially absorbing infrared light and ultraviolet light,
the method including the following steps:
admitting air to the space at or near the bottom edges of the first and second panes of glass;
heating and expanding the air in the space with energy absorbed in the coating from the infrared light and the ultraviolet light thereby causing the air to travel upwardl through the space towards the top edges of the first and second panes of glass; and
directing the heated air leaving the top edges of the first and second panes of glass past an air current driven generator.
[0032] The method preferably includes directing air updrafts and/or cross drafts towards and/or into the inlet, most preferably with at least one scoop or duct
[ 0033 j In one form, the method preferably includes installing' the windo assembl with the pane of glass having the coatin nearest to the Sun. Preferably, the method preferably includes installing the window assembly with the pane of glass having the coating on the outside of a building. In this form, the coatin is preferably on the surface of the pane of glass that faces into the space.
[0034] In another form, the method preferably includes installing the window assembly with the pane of glass having the coating furthest, from the Sun. Preferably, the method preferably includes instal ling the. window assembly with the pane of glass having the coating on the inside of a building. In this form, the coati ng is preferably on the surface of the pane of glass that faces into the building, [0035] Preferably, the method preferably includes sealing opposed peripheral edges of the first pane of glass and the second pane of glass with respect to each other to thereby enclose the space.
[00 6] In a fifth aspect, the present invention provides a retrofittable power generating window assembl including;
a first pane of glass having a surface coating thereon which is adapted to substantial ly permit the passage of visible light therethrough whilst substantially absorbing infrared light and ultraviolet light; and
a mounting arrangement adapted for fixing the pane of glass to the exterior of second pane of glass forming -part of an existing building window with a space between the outer face of the second pane of glass and the inner face of the first pane of glass.
[0037] The coating is preferably on the surface of the first pane of glass that faces into the space.
[0038] Preferably, the first and the second panes of glass have opposed peripheral edges that are substantially sealed with respect to each other, thereby enclosing the space.
[0039] Preferably, the first and the second panes of glass have respective opposed side edges between their said top and bottom edges, wherein the adjacent side edges of the first and the second panes of glass are substantially sealed with respect to each other, thereby enclosing the space in a channel with an open upper end an open lower end.
[0040] The retrofittable power generating window assembl preferably further incl des an. inlet in fluid communication with the space at or near the bottom edges of the first and second panes of glass, an outlet in fluid communication with the space at or near the top edges of the first and second panes of glass, and an air current driven generator in fluid communication with and, in use, drivable by a flow of air leaving the outlet.
[0041] The assembly preferably includes at least one scoop or duct adapted to direct air updrafts and/or cross drafts towards and/or into the inlet.
[0042] The air current driven generator is preferably also adapted for powered use as a suction device. [0043] The assembly preferably includes a controller adapted to energise the air current driven generator as a suction device responsive to the second pane of glass reaching and/or exceeding a predetermined temperature.
[0044] The air current driven generator is preferabl a tangential blower, most preferably having a width that is approxi mately the same as the width of the window assembly. Alternatively, the air current driven generator is an axial fan or a centrifugal fan.
[0045] The assembly preferably includes at least one ejector, downstream of the air current drive generator. The ejector(s) is/are preferabl slotted.
[0046] The assembly preferably includes at least one heat exchanger between the outlet a d the air current driven generator. The assembly preferably includes at least one wall collector in a heat exchanging relationship with the heat exchanger. The assembly preferably includes at least one reverse configured Peltier thermoelectric cooler module between die outlet and the air current driven generator.
[0047] The at least one heat exchanger and/or the at least one wall collector and/or at least one reverse configured Peltier thermoelectric cooler are preferably connected to a heat engine generator. The heat engine generator is preferably an organic Rankine cycle type, a steam turbine Rankine cycle type, a reverse Peltier thermoelectric module, a low vapour expansion engine type or a Stirling engine type.
Brief Description of Drawings
[0048] Preferred embodiments of the invention will, now be described, by way of examples only, with reference to the accompanying drawings in which:
[0049] Fig, I is a schematic cross sectional side view of a first embodiment of a window assembly;
[0050] Figs. 2a and 2b are a schematic cross sectional side view of a second embodiment of a power, generating window assembly, pre- and post-installation respectively; [0051] Fig. 3 is a schematic cross sectional side views of a third embodiment of a power generating window assembly
[0052] Fig, 4 is a schematic cross sectional side view of a fourth embodiment of power
generating window assembly;
[0053] Fig. 5 is a schematic cross sectional side view of a fifth embodiment of a power generating window assembly;
[0054] Fig. 6 is a schematic cross sectional side view of a sixth embodiment of a power generating window assembly;
[0055] Fig. 7 is a schematic cross sectional side view of a seventh embodiment of a power generating window assembly;
[0056] Fig. 8 is a schematic cross sectional side view of an eighth embodiment of a power generating window assembly; and
[0057] Fig. 9 is a schematic cross sectional side view of a ninth embodiment of a power generating windo assembly.
Detailed Description of the Preferred Embodiments
[0058] Fig. 1 shows the Sun 10 emitting sunlight in the form of visible light 1 a, infrared light/radiation (i.e. heat) 12b and ultraviolet light 12c. The sunlight is incident on a wall 14 of a building that, has an exterior surface 14a and an interior surface 14b. A first embodiment of a power generating window assembly, indicated generally by the reference numeral 16, is positioned within an opening in the wall 14.
[0059] The window assembly 16 includes a first pane of glass 18 and a second pane of glass 20, which are installed, with a space 22 therebetween. A typical size of the first and second panes of glass 18 and 20 are 0,6 m wide, 1.2 ro high and 0.04 m deep, with a space 22 therebetween which is 0.02m deep. [0060] A coating 24 is applied to the surface of the second pane of glass 20 that faces into the space 22. The coating 24 substantially permits the passage of visible light 12a therethrough, whilst substantially absorbing the infrared radiation 12b and the ultraviolet light 32c. A preferred example of the coating 24 is product called Zerocoat and is distributed by 21st Global Pty Ltd of Salamander Bay, "New South Wales, Australia. This product is applied with a bonding polymer thai is self-leveling. This product hardens to the same hardness as glass. It is a single formula using an absorber of nano-partieles ink developed by Sumitomo Metal and Mining. The formulation of the coating can be adjusted to balance the relative amounts of infrared radiation absorption and visible light admittance.
[0061] Other examples of suitable products for the coating 24 are as follows: 3M Solar Control Films, distributed by 3M Australia of North Ryde, Australia; Thin Film Coatings - Custom, distributed by Reynard Corporation of San Clemente, California, USA; and Heat-reflective Coated Glass, distributed by Xinyi Glass of Phase 2, Hong Kong.
[0062] The first and second panes of glass 18 and 20 are sealed with respect to each other along their side edges such that the space 22 is in the form of a vertical channel or passage, having a lower inlet 32 and an upper outlet 34. The assembly 16 includes scoops or ducts 36 adjacent the inlet 32. to assist in directing air updrafts and or cross-drafts towards and/or into the inlet 32. The assembly 1.6 also includes an air current driven electrical generator, in the form of a tangential blower 37 mounted downstream of the outlet 34. The blower 37 is about the same width as the first and second panes of glass 18 and 20. An ejector 38 is mounted downstream of the outlet of the blower 34. The ejector 38 is preferably slotted and is similar to that described in Australian provisional patent application no. 2013901 93. The assembly 16 also includes a temperature gauge 40 associated with the second pane of glass 20 and a magnetic inductor 42 associated with the blower 37.
[0063] In operation, most of the Sun's visible light 12a passes through the window assembly .16 into the building. Most of the ultraviolet light 12c is blocked by the coating 24. Most of the Sun's infrared radiation 12b does not pass through and instead heats the coating 24 on the second pane of glass 20. This in turn heats the air within the space 22 causing it to expand and rise upwards, as indicated by arrow 44, The upward passage of the heated air 44 is also aided by any air updrafts and/or cross-drafts, as indicated by arrow 46, that are directed into the inlet 32 by the scoops 36. The rising air leaving the outlet 34 is directed through the blower 37, as indicated by arrow 48 , causing it to rotate and thereby generate electricity. The electricity generated is communicated to other parts of the bui lding via the magnetic inductor 42 or b a simple wired comiection (not shown). Alternative wireless electricity transmission mechanisms Such as laser or microwave (not shown) could also be used instead of the magnetic inductor 42.
[0064] A typical installation of multiple units of the window assemblies 16 in a high rise building can generate u to 500 watts per square metre of solar thermal energy plus more than a further 250 watts per square metre of wind mechanical energy ( at 50 metres high). The 500 wa tts o f thermal energy equates to more than 300 watts pe square metre of thermal energy blocked from entering the building which can be harnessed and con verted to more than 100 watts of electricity. The 250 watts of mechanical wind energy can also be converted to more than 1.00 watts of electricity. In combination, more than 200 watts of electricity is provided, whilst the 300 watts of blocked, thermal energy reduces the air conditioning system electricity requirements by about 100 watts. Overall, the assembly 16 provides up to 300 watts per square metre of nett electricity generated and saved. This figure can be higher in hot and windy climates. In Winter, the thermal radiation from internal heating is smaller than from the Sun. However, a combination of some Winter sunlight combined with significant energy from thermal losses through the window combined with the mechanical wind energy amounts to similar amount of energy saved and generated as in Summer.
[0065] The temperature gauge 40 is connected to a simple temperature controller (not shown) which sensors the temperature of the glass pane 20 to ensure that it does not exceed at predetermined set point at which it could crack, if the set point is reached, the blower 37 is energised for a period of time, turning it into a suction fan, to draw air though the space to cool the glass pane 20 down to a safe temperature.
[0066] The economics of a power generation device are a major concern and the window assembly 16 can be constructed from relat vely simple and inexpensive components, and can generate relattvely large amoonts of electricit tor relati vely long amounts of time. This equates to a much more attractive and cost-effective device. The window assembly 16 addresses two major issues for power generation and consumption. That is, it significantly reduces the amount of energy required by a building, whilst also generating meaningful amounts of power (typicall y more than 300W per square meter). Additionally, most power is consumed on a hot sunny day and this is when most power is generated, thereby importantly matching the power supply to meet the demand.
[0067] The assembly 16 is most suited for replacement of existing windows in an existing building or in the provision of new windows for a new buildiiig. Figs. 2a and 2b show a second embodiment of a power generating window assembly 60. The assembly 60 is similar to the assembly 16 described with reference to Fig. I and like features have been indicated with like reference numerals. The assembly 60 is best suited to converting an existing window into a power generating window assembly similar to that previously described, in the assembly 60, the coating 24 is applied to the inside facing surface of a third window pane 62. The third window pane 62 forms sub-assembly with the scoops 36, the blower 37, die magnetic inductor 42 and th temperature gaug 40. This sub-assembly is then mounted to he o tside of the existing window panes 18/20 with a space 64 therebetween. Once installed, the operation of the assembly 60 is identical to that described with reference to the assembly 30 with the magnetic inductor 42 supplying energy to further magnetic inductors 6 for powering lighting 68 and other components (not shown) and/or supply excess energy back to the building switchboard 70, which can then be fed into the electricity grid to produce income,
[0068] Fig. 3 shows a third embodiment of a power generating window assembly SO. The assembly 80 is similar to the assembly 16 described with reference to Fig. 1 and like features has been indicated with like reference numerals. However, the system 80 includes a heat exchanger 82 positioned between the outlet 34 and the blower 37 in a heat exchanging relationship with the heated, air 44 moving upwardly through the space 22. The heat exchanger 82 is connected to a heat engine generator (not shown) by inlet line 84 and outlet line 86 for generation of additional electricity to that previously described. The operation of the assembly 80 is similar to that described with reference to the assembly 16 except for the additional electricity generation from the heat exchanger 82 and the heat engine generator (not shown). There are numerous different types of heat engine generators suitable for this application including an organic Rankine cycle type, a steam turbine Rankine cycle type, a reverse Peltier thermoelectric module, a low vapour expansion engine type or a Stirling engine type.
[0069] Fig, 4 shows a fourth embodiment of a power generating window assembly 100 which is similar to the system 80 previously described. Once again, like features are indicated with like reference numerals. However, in the system 100, a Peltier thermoelectric cooler 102 working in reverse that is in a heat exchanging in relationship with the heated air 44 traveling upwardly through the gap 22. The passage of the heated air 44 past the cooler 102 generates an additional amount of electrical energy that is typically twice the efficiency and double the amount generated compared to just heating and expanding the air as described in the assembly 16 with reference to Fig. 1 .
[0070] Fig. 5 shows a fifth, embodiment of a power generating window assembly 120. The assembly 120 is similar to the assembly 16 described with reference to Fig. 1 and like features have been indicated with like reference numerals. However, the assembly 120 includes a closed circuit heat engine generator, indicated generally by the reference numeral 122. The generator 122 includes a fluid pump 124 which pressurises a fluid such that it is at a medium pressure and low temperature at a junction measured by a pressure sensor 126 and a temperature sensor 128. At that junction, the fluid enters a concentrated solar collector, in the form a flat plate 130 with fluid circuits inside and coated with a heat absorbent coating such as the Zerocoat previously mentioned or a carbon nanotube coating. Alternatively a traditional concave reflector mirror (not shown) can be used to heat a small collector or a flat plate heat exchanger. In either case, the collector 130 tracks the Sun 10 for maximum heat absorption and the fluid is heated to a very high temperature, typically of several hundred degrees Celsius. This also causes the pressure of the fluid to increase to a very high level, typically to several bars. Tire fluid at this relatively high temperature and pressure is measured by a pressure sensor 130 and a temperature sensor 132. The fluid is then supplied to an expander turbine 134 causm it to rotate and drive a generator (not shown) which generates electricity . The fluid exiting the expander turbine .134 is at a low pressure and a medium temperature, as measured by a pressure sensor 136 and a temperature sensor 138. The fluid then enters a condenser 140 where it is cooled to a low temperature gas (for a reverse refrigeration cycle-not shown) or to a low temperature liquid (for an organic Rankine-cycle as shown). The condenser 140 has an associated temperature sensor 141. The condenser 140 has a fan 142 which is electrically or mechanically coupled to the pump 124. A clutch or electronic controller (not shown) is configured, such that when the pump 124 operates, the condenser fen 142 operates to provide the required cooling.
[0071] At the junction adjacent to the sensors 126 and 128, the fluid is at medium pressure and Sow temperature and the fluid can optionally branch off to a valve 143 and integrate with an ice maker plus cold thermal energy storage tank 144 and or integrate or retrofit to a new or existing air conditioning (or refrigeration) system 146. In either case, the infrastructure and refrigerant fluid of the ice maker system 144 or the air conditioning system 146 i util ised, to reduce capital costs, particularly if such components already exist in a building. Two non-return valves 148 and 150 are used to stop fluid entering the ice maker or air conditioning system from the wrong direction. Integration with an existing air conditioning system advantageously reduces the capital costs overall and significantly reduces operational costs, particularly in Winter or colder seasons where in any heat generated from the collectors can be utilised for off-loading the air conditioning system working as a reverse cycle heat pump.
[0072] Fig. 6 shows a sixth embodiment of a window generating assembly! 6G. The assembly 160 is similar to the assembly 120 described with reference to Fig. 5 and like features have been indicated with like reference numerals. However, the assembly 160 also includes wall mounted solar collec tor 162 and a roof mounted so lar collector 164 which are al so connected to, and provide heated fluid to, the closed circuit heat engine generator 122, thereby increasing its power output. Additionally a heat exchanger (not shown ) can be used to capture the waste heat from a air conditioning or refrigeration system condenser or from other waste heat from industrial processes thereby .further increasing the power output of the heat engine generator 122
[0073] Fig. 7 shows a seventh embodiment of a window generating assembly 180. The system 1.80 is similar to the assembly 16 described with reference to Fig. I and like features have been indicated with like reference numerals. However , in the assembly 180, the coating 24 is not utilised and, as result, the Sun's infrared radiation 12b can also pass into the building. The air 44 within the space 22 is thus heated to a lesser extent than would be the ease with the window assembly 16. The upward passage of the heated air 44 is also aided by an air updrafts and/or cross drafts 46. The assembly 180 therefore typically produces less energy per square meter than the assembly 16. The assembly 180 finds particular application in very cold climates where there is little solar radiation 12b.
[0074] Fig. 8 shows an eighth embodiment of a power generating window assembly 200. The assembly 200 is similar to the assembly 16 described with reference to Fig. 1 and like features 'have been indicated with like reference numerals. However, in the assembly 200, fluid (not air) is heated during its passage through the space 22 for electricity generation via a closed circuit heat engine generator, such as the generator 122 described with references to Fig. 5. In this embodiment, an air updrafts and/or cross drafts are directly into the inlet of the blower 37. [0075] Fig. 9 shows a ninth embodiment of power generating window assembly 220, The assembly 220 is similar to the assembly 16 described with reference to Fig. I and like features have been indicated with like reference numerals. However, in the assembly 220, about the lower third of the side edges between the first and second glass panes 18 and 20 are also open and provide extra side inlets 222 and 224, in addition to the lower edge inlet 32. Th
scoop/ducts 36 also include side extensions 226 and 228 to assist in directing air updrafts and/or cross drafts 46 into the side inlets 222 and 224. The side extensions 226 and 228 are will capture more cross drafts to provide significantly more power to drive the blower 37, particularly in densely packed cities, where winds flow around buildings creating a "wind tunnel" effect.
[0076] Although the invention has been described with reference to preferred embodiments, it will be appreciated by persons skilled in. the art that the invention may be embodied in many other forms.

Claims

CLAIMS:
1. A power generating window assembly including:
a first pane of glass having top and bottom edges;
a second pane of glass having top and bottom edges and mounted relative to the first pane of glass such that a space is formed therebetween;
a surface coating on the first pane of glass or the second pane of glass, the coating adapted to substantially permit the passage of visible light therethrough whilst substantial y absorbing infrared light and ultraviolet light;
an inlet in fluid communication with the space at or near the bottom edges of the first and second panes of glass;
an outlet in fluid communication with the space at or near the top edges of the first and second panes of glass; and
an air current driven generator in fluid communication with and, in use, drivable by a flow of air leavin the outlet.
2. The power generating window assembly as claimed in claim 1 , wherein the window assembly is adapted for installation with the pane of glass having the coating nearest to the Sim.
3. The power generating window assembly as claimed in claim 2, wherein the window assembly is adapted for installation with the pane of glass having the coating on the outside of a building.
4. The power generating window assembly as claimed in claim 3, wherein the coating is on the surface of the pane of glass that faces into the space.
5. The power generating window assembly as claimed in claim 1 , wherein the window assembly is adapted for installation with the pane of glass having the coating furthest from the
Sun,
6. The power generating window assembly as claimed in claim 5, wherein the window assembl is adapted for installation with the pane of glass having the coating on the inside of a building.
7. The power generating window assembly as claimed in claim 6, wherein the coating is on the surface of the pane of glass that faces into the buildi ng.
8. The power generating window assembly as claimed in any one of claims 1. to 7, wherein the first and the second panes of glass have opposed peripheral edges that are substantial ly sealed with respect to each other, thereby enclosing the space.
9. The power generating window assembly as claimed in any one of claims 1 to 7, wherein the first and the second panes of glass have respective opposed side edges between their said top and bottom edges, wherein the adjacent side edges of the first and the second panes of glass are substantially sealed with respect to each other, thereby enclosing the space in a channel with an open upper end and an open lower end.
10. The power generating window assembly as claimed in any one of claims 1 to 9, wherein the assembly includes at least one scoop or duct adapted to direct air updrafts and/or cross drafts towards and/or into the inlet.
1 1. The power generating window assembly as claimed in any one of claims 1 to 10, wherein the air current driven generator is also adapted for powered use as a suction device.
12. The power generating window assembly as claimed in claim 1 1 , wherein the assembly includes a controller adapted to energise the air current drive generator as a suction device responsive to the second pane of glass reaching and/or exceeding a predetermined temperature.
13. The power generating window assembly as claimed in any one of claims 1 to 12, wherein the air current driven generator is a tangential blower
14. The power generating window assembly as claimed in claim 13, wherein the tangential blower has a width that is approximately the same as the width of the window assembly.
15, The power generating window assembly as claimed in any one of claims 1 to 13, wherein the air current dr ven generator is an axial fan or a centrifugal fan.
16. The power generating window assembly as claimed in any one of claims 1 to 15, wherein the assembly includes at least one ejector, downstream of the air current driven generator.
17. The power generating window assembly as claimed in claim 16, wherei the ejector(s) is/are slotted,
18. The power generating window assembly as claimed in any one of claims 1 to 17, wherein the assembly includes at least one heat exchanger between the outlet and the air current drive generator.
19. The power generating window assembly as claimed in claim 18, wherein the assembly includes at least one wall collector in a heat exchanging relationship with the heat exchanger.
20. The power generating window assembly as claimed in any one of claims 1 to 17, wherein the assembly includes at least one reverse configured Peltier thermoelectric cooler module between the outlet and the air current driven generator.
21. The power generating window assembly as claimed in claims 18, 19 or 20, wherein the at least one heat exchanger and/or the at least one wall collector and/or at least one reverse configured Peltier thermoelectric cooler are connected to a heat engine generator,
22. The powe generating window assembly as claimed in claim 2 i , wherein the heat engine generator is an organic Rankine cycle type, a steam turbine Rankine cycle type, a reverse Peltier thermoelectric module, a low vapour expansion engine type or a Stirling engine type,
23. A power generating window assembly including:
a first pane of glass having top and bottom edges;
a second pane of glass having top and bottom edges and mounted relative to the first pane of glass such that a space is formed therebetween;
an inlet in fluid communication with, the space at or near the bottom edges of the first and second panes of glass;
at least one scoop or duct adapted to direct air updrafts and/or cross drafts towards and/or into the inlet; an outlet in fluid communication with the space at or near the top edges of the first and. second panes of glass; and
an air current driven generator in fluid communication with and, in use, drivable by a flow of air leaving the outlet.
24. The power generating window assembly as claimed i claim 23, wherein the air current driven generator is a tangential blower
25. The power generating window assembly as claimed in claim 24. wherein the tangential blower has a width that is approxi mately the same as the width of the window assembl y.
26. The power generating window assembly as claimed in claim 23, wherein the air current driven generator is an axial fan. or a centrifugal fan.
27. The power generating window assembly as claimed in any one of claims 23 to 26. wherein the assembly includes at least one ejector, downstream of the air current driven generator.
28. The power generating window assembly as claimed in claim 27, wherein the ejector(s) is/are slotted.
29. A power generating window assembly including;
a first pane of glass having top and bottom edges;
a second pane of glass having top and bottom edges and mounted relative to the first pane of glass such that a substantially fluid tight space is formed therebetween;
a surface coating on the first pane of glass or the second pane of glass, the coati ng adapted to substantially permit the passage of visible light therethrough whilst substantially absorbing infrared li ht and ultraviolet light;
a fluid inlet in fluid communication with the space at or near the bottom edges of the first and second panes of glass;
a fluid outlet in fluid communication with the space at or near the top edges of the first and second panes of glass,
wherein the fluid outle is in fluid communication with a heat engine generator.
30. The power generating window assembly as claimed in claim 29, wherein the window assembly includes a heat exchanger in fluid communication between the fluid outlet and the heat engine generator.
31. The power generating window assembly as claimed in claim 30, wherei the heat exchanger is at least one wall collector,
32. The power generating window assembly as claimed in claim 29, 30 or 31 , wherein the window assembly includes an air current driven generator in fluid com unication with and, in use, drivable by air updrafts and or cross drafts towards,
33. The power generating window assembly as claimed in claim 32, wherein the air current driven generator includes at least one ejector downstream thereof.
34. The power generating window assembly as claimed in claim 33, wherein the ejecto !' s) is/are slotted.
35. The power generating window assembly as claimed in any one of claims 29 to 34.
wherein the window assembly is adapted for installation wi th the pane of glass having the coating nearest to the Sun.
36. The power generating window assembly as claimed in claim 35, wherein the window assembly is adapted for installation with the pane of glass having the coating on the outside of a building.
37. The power generating window assembly as claimed in claim 36, wherein the coating is on the surface of the pane of glass that faces into the space.
38. The power generating window assembly as claimed in any one of claims 29 to 34, wherein the window assembly is adapted tor installation with die pane of glass having the coating furthest from the Sun,
39. The power generating window assembly as claimed in claim 38, wherein the window assembly is adapted for installation with the pane of glass having the coating on the inside of a building.
40. The power generating window assembly as claimed in claim 39, wherein the coating is preferably on the surface of the pane of glass that faces into the buildi ng.
41. The power generating window assembly as claimed in any one of claims 29 to 40, wherein the first and the second panes of glass have opposed peripheral edges that are substantially sealed with respect to each other, thereby enclosing the space.
42. A method of power generation in a window assembly,
the window assembly ine.Uid.hig:
a first pane of glass having top and bottom edges;
a second pane of glass having top and bottom edges and mounted relati ve to the first pane of glass such that a space is formed therebetween; and
a surface coating on the first pane of glass or the second pane of glass, the coating adapted to substantially permit the passage of visible light therethrough whilst substantially absorbing infrared light and ultraviolet light,
the method including the following steps:
admitting air to the space at or near the bottom edges of the first and second panes of glass;
heating and expanding the air in the space with energy absorbed i the coating from the infrared light and the ultraviolet light thereby causing the air to travel upwardly through the space towards the top edges of the first and second panes of glass; and
directing the heated ai leaving the top edges of the first and second panes of glass past an air current driven generator.
43. The method as claimed in claim 42, wherein the method includes directing air updrafts and/or cross drafts towards and/or into the inlet
44. The method as claimed in claim 43, wherein the air is directed with at least one scoop or duct.
45. The method as claimed in claim 42, 43 or 44, wherein the method includes installing the window assembly with the pane of glass having the coating nearest to the Sun.
46. The method as claimed in claim 45, wherein the method includes installing the window assembly with the pane of glass having the coating on the outside of a building.
47. The method as claimed in claim 46, wherein the coating is on the surface of the pane of glass that faces into the space.
48. The method as claimed in claim 42, 43 or 44, wherein the method includes installing the window assembly with the pane of glass having the coating furthest from the Sun.
49. The method as claimed in claim 48, wherein the method includes installing the window assembly wi th the pane of glass having the coating on the inside of a building.
50. The method as claimed in claim 49, wherein the coating is on the surface of the pane of glass that faces into the building.
51. The method as claimed in any one of claims 42 to 50, wherein the method includes sealing opposed peripheral edges of the first pane of glass and the second pane of glass with respect to each other to thereby enclose the space.
52. A retrofittable power generating window assembly including:
a first pane of glass having a surface coating thereon which is adapted to substantially permit the passage of visible light therethrough whilst substantially absorbing infrared light and ultraviolet light; and
a mounting arrangement adapted for fixing the pane of glass to the exterior of second pane of glass forming part of an existing building window with a space between the outer face of die second pane of glass and the inner face of the first pane of glass.
53. The retrofittable power generating window assembly as claimed in claim 52, wherein the coating is on the surface of the first pane of glass that faces into the space.
54. The retrofittable power generating window assembly as claimed in claim 52 or 53, wherein the first and the second panes of glass have opposed peripheral edges that are
substantially sealed with respect to each other, thereby enclosing the space.
55. The retrofittable power generating window assembly as claimed in claim 52 or 53, wherein the first and the second panes of glass have respective opposed side edges between their said top and bottom edges, wherein the adjacent side edges of the first and the second panes of glass are substantially sealed with respect to each other, thereby enclosing the space in a channel with an open upper end an open lower end.
56. The .retrofittable power generating window assembly as claimed in any one of claims 52 to 55, further including an inlet in fluid coimnunication with the space at or near the bottom edges of the first and second panes of glass, an outlet in fluid communication with the space at or near the top edges of the first and second panes of glass, and an air current driven generator in fluid communication with and, in use, drivabl by a flow of air leaving the outlet.
57. The retrofittable power generating window assembly as claimed in claim 56. wherein the assembly includes at least one scoop or duct adapted to direct air updrafts and/or cross drafts towards and/or into the inlet.
58. The retrofittable power generating window assembly as claimed in claim 56, wherein the air current driven generator is also adapted for powered use as a suction device.
59. The retrofittable power generating window' assembly as claimed in claim 58, wherein die assembly includes a controller adapted to energise the air current driven generator as a suction device responsive to the second pane of glass reaching and/or exceeding a predetermined temperature.
60. The retrofittable power generating window assembly as claimed in claim 57, 58 or 59, wherein the air current driven generator is a tangential blower
61. The retrofittable power generating window assembly as claimed in claim 60, wherein the tangential blower has a width that is approximately the same as the width of the window assembly.
62. The retrofittable power generating window assembly as claimed in claim 57, 58 or 59, wherein the air current driven generator is an axial fan or a centrifugal fan.
63. The retrofittable power generating window assembly as claimed in any one of claims 57 to 62, wherein the assembly includes at least one ejector, downstream of the air current dri ven generator.
64, The retrofittable power generating window assembly as claimed i clai 63, wherein the ejector(s) is/are preferably slotted.
65. The retrofittable power generating window assembly as claimed in any one of claims 57 to 64, wherein the assembly includes at least one heat exchanger between the outlet and the air current driven generator.
66. The retrofittable power generating window assembly as claimed in claim 65, wherein the assembly includes at least one wall collector in a heat exchanging relationship with the heat exchanger.
67. The retrofittable power generating windo assembly as claimed in any one of claims 57 to 64, wherein the assembly includes at least one reverse configured Peltier thermoelectric cooler module between the outlet and the air current driven generator.
68. The retrofittable power generating window assembly as claimed in claim 64, 66 or 67, wherein the at least one heat exchanger and or the at least one wall collector and/or at least one reverse configured Peltier thermoelectric cooler are connected to a heat engine generator.
69. The retrofittable power generating window assembly as claimed in claim 68, wherein the heat engine generator is an org-anic Rankme cycle type, a steam turbine Rankine cycle type, a reverse Peltier thermoelectric module, a low vapour expansion engine type or a Stirling engine type-
PCT/AU2014/000752 2013-08-06 2014-07-25 A power generating window assembly WO2015017879A1 (en)

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