WO2024161389A1

WO2024161389A1 - Solar collector buildings

Info

Publication number: WO2024161389A1
Application number: PCT/IL2024/050107
Authority: WO
Inventors: Menashe ALTHOUS
Original assignee: Solar Fence Group Ltd
Priority date: 2023-02-05
Filing date: 2024-01-25
Publication date: 2024-08-08

Abstract

Methods and systems for using buildings as solar collectors and, more particularly, but not exclusively, applicable to windows, outer walls, roofs, and skylights to collect direct and/or indirect solar radiation at a. range of angles.

Description

SOLAR COLLECTOR BUILDINGS

RELATED APPLICATIONS

This application claims the benefit of priority under 35 USC §119(e) of U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 63/443,397 filed 5 Feb. 2023 and U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 63/443,404 filed 5 Feb. 2023 and U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 63/448,291 filed 26 Feb. 2023, the contents of which are incorporated herein by reference in their entirety.

FIELD AND BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

The present invention, in some embodiments thereof, relates to methods and systems for using buildings as solar collectors and, more particularly, but not exclusively, applicable to window's, outer walls, roofs, and skylights to collect direct and/or indirect solar radiation at a range of angles.

Solar energy is a candidate for clean, renewable energy. More and more people are installing solar transducers (e.g., photovoltaic (PV) panels) on buildings in order to take advantage of this renewable resource to reduce electricity bills, reduce fossil fuel consumption, and/or to receive payments for the surplus electricity that is exported to the electricity grid.

The amount of solar energy produced depends on the surface area of the solar transducer and/or the light intensity and/or the angle of incidence. In general, more solar panels means more energy is produced. Often solar panels take up a lot of space, and some roots or yards are not large enough to fit the number of solar panels required to power a home, building or commercial enterprise, particularly in urban environments. The amount of power produced by panels can be sensitive to the direction of the sun and/or may vary significantly according to the time of day and/or date in the year and/or angle of the surface on wliich the panel is mounted.

Many solar panels are designed to collect direct solar radiation, and this limits the angles and locations at which they can be placed. Some building surfaces (e.g., walls, windows, roofs, etc.) may be at angles not conducive to direct collection of solar energy. International Patent Application Publication no. W02023012805 by the present applicant appears to disclose, a prismatic solar concentrator “that comprises a plurality of prisms made of transparent material, each of the prisms has a front face, and at least three back faces, wherein each of the prisms is attached to the adjacent prisms such that their front faces are aligned, forming a plate-like solar array having a flat front surface and 3-dimensional structured back surface, and a plurality of solar cells producing electrical power in response to light, wherein the plurality of solar cells is attached to some of the back faces of the plurality of prisms.”

German Patent Application Publication no. DE 19609283 appears to disclose, “a multicell concentrator with a photovoltaic solar cell surface of numerous rectangular or circular faces. These form the basic surfaces of identical, inside mirrored funnels concentrating the vertically impinging solar radiation, with uniform reflecting onto the solar cells. The aperture surface of the impinging radiation forms a multiple C of the total cell surface, C representing the concentration factor. Preferably the solar cell surface consists of sufficient number of circular faces of the same size, to which the solar radiation, amplified by C, is radiated via same number of collector lenses.”

International Patent Application Publication no. W02023012805 appears to disclose, “A solar cell module provided with: a light condensing plate having a principal surface and at least one end surface, solar light entering the light condensing plate from the principal surface, propagating within the light condensing plate, and being beamed out from the light condensing plate from at least one end surface; a solar cell element installed on the end surface of the light condensing plate, the solar cell element receiving the light beamed out from the end surface and generating electrical power; and a reflector installed on the rear-surface side of the light condensing plate, the reflector reflecting the light transmitted through the light condensing plate towards a predetermined direction on the solar-light-entry-path side with respect to the normal line of the principal surface.”

International Patent Application Publication no. W02023012805 appears to disclose, “a transmissive optical concentrator comprising an elliptical collector aperture and a non-elliptical exit aperture, the concentrator being operable to concentrate radiation incident on said collector aperture. The body of said concentrator may have a substantially hyperbolic external profile. Also disclosed is a photovoltaic cell employing such a concentrator and a photovoltaic building unit comprising an array of optical transmissive concentrators, each having an elliptical collector aperture, and an array of photovoltaic cells, each aligned with an exit aperture of a concentrator, wherein the area between adjacent collector apertures is transmissive to visible radiation.”

Japanese Patent Application Publication no. JP2015095351 A appears to disclose, “a decorated material with a solar battery' capable of suppressing deterioration in solar cell characteristics due to variations in a light incident angle and incident light, intensity in a solar cell module in which a plurality of solar cells are connected in series. Provided is a decorated material with a solar cell which includes: a dye-sensitized solar cell module obtained by connecting a plurality of dye-sensitized solar cells in series; an optical member which is arranged on the dye-sensitized solar cell module and whose emission angle range is smaller than an incident angle range; and a design member which is arranged on the optical member and has a transmission region.”

SUMMARY OF INVENTION

The present invention, in some embodiments thereof, relates to methods and systems for using buildings as solar collectors and, more particularly, but not exclusively, applicable to windows, outer walls, roofs, and skylights to collect direct and/or indirect solar radiation at a range of angles.

According to an aspect of some embodiments of the invention, there is provided a building configured for collecting solar energy including: a solar transducer, and an outer surface of the building configured to direct solar energy onto the solar transducer.

According to some embodiments of the invention, the outer surface includes a daylight element configured for splitting light impinging on the daylight element by at least one of reflection and refraction thereby directing a first portion of light impinging on the outer surface of the daylight element to the solar transducer and a second portion of the light impinging on the outer surface of the daylight element into the building.

According to some embodiments of the i nvention, the solar transducer includes at least one of a crystalline Silicone PV collector, a thin-film PV collector and a thermal collector.

According to some embodiments of the invention, the outer surface includes cladding of the building.

According to some embodiments of the invention, the solar transducer extends outward from the outer surface of the building. According to some embodiments of the invention, an orientation of the solar transducer is adjustable.

According to some embodiments of the invention, the daylight element includes a semi reflective surface which reflects light to the solar transducer.

According to some embodiments of the invention, the semi reflective surface includes a semi reflective window.

According to some embodiments of the invention, the outer surface includes a prism and the solar transducer is located at least one surface of the prism.

According to some embodiments of the invention, the solar transducer is located on an internal surface of the prism.

According to some embodiments of the invention, at least one inner surface of the prism is transparent and facilitates viewing out the building.

According to some embodiments of the invention, the prism is a load bearing element.

According to some embodiments of the invention, the prism is not-a load bearing element.

According to some embodiments of the invention, a first portion of the outer surface of the building configured to direct solar energy to the solar transducer is separated from a second portion of the outer surface configured to direct solar energy to a second solar transducer by a spacer.

According to some embodiments of the invention, the splitting includes differentiated between different wavelengths of light.

According to some embodiments of the invention, light in a first wavelength useful for plant growth is directed to a plant within the building and a second wavelength of light less useful for plant growth than the first wavelength is directed to the solar transducer.

According to an aspect of some embodiments of the invention, there is provided a method for using a building as a solar collector system, the method including: receiving solar energy on an outer surface of a building; directing the solar energy onto a solar transducer by at least one of a reflection from refractive through the outer surface of the building; and converting solar radiation to a useful transportable form using the solar transducer.

According to some embodiments of the invention, the method further includes splitting light impinging on the outer surface by at least one of reflection and refraction and directing a first portion of light impinging on the outer surface to the solar transducer and a second portion of the light impinging on the outer surface to a daylight element in the building.

According to some embodiments of the invention, the directing is to the solar transducer extending outward from the outer surface of the building.

According to some embodiments of the invention, the method further includes adjusting an orientation of the solar transducer.

According to some embodiments of the invention, the method further includes reflecting light to the solar transducer from a semi reflective surface on the outer surface.

According to some embodiments of the invention, the method further includes viewing out from the building through the semi reflective surface.

According to some embodiments of the invention, the outer surface includes a prism and the method further including refracting light through the prism to the solar transducer located at least one surface of the prism.

According to some embodiments of the invention, at least one inner surface of the prism is transparent the method further including viewing out the building through the at least one inner surface.

According to some embodiments of the invention, the method further includes supporting a load on the prism.

According to some embodiments of the invention, the method further includes: directing light in a first wavelength useful for plant growth to a plant within the building and directing a second wavelength of light less useful for plant growth than the first wavelength is to the solar transducer. According to some embodiments of the invention, the method further includes positioning the solar panel or the outer surface according to user preference, to improve solar energy collection, to provide shade, to facilitate passage of light, to prevent obstruction of a view, or any combination thereof

According to some embodiments of the invention, the method further includes: passing a ray of solar radiation through a refractive surface of a pri smatic solar collector and trapping the ray within the prism.

According to some embodiments of the invention, the method further includes splitting the ray and bouncing it between various faces of the prism onto solar transducers to efficiently provide electricity and/or heat.

According to an aspect of some embodiments of the invention, there is provided a system for collecting solar energy including: a solar transducer, and an outer surface of a building configured to direct solar energy onto the solar transducer.

According to some embodiments of the invention, the solar transducer includes at least one of a crystalline Silicone PV collector, a thin-film PV collector and a thermal collector.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

Some embodiments of the invention are herein described, by way of example only, with reference to the accompanying drawings. With specific reference now to the drawings in detail, it is stressed that the particulars shown are by way of example and for purposes of illustrative discussion of embodiments of the invention. In this regard, the description taken with the drawings makes apparent to those skilled in the art how embodiments of the invention may be practiced.

In the drawings:

Figs. 1A-D are schematic illustrations of various shapes of prismatic solar collector, in accordance with some embodiment of the invention; Fig. 2 is a schematic illustration of a prismatic solar collector, in accordance with some embodiments of the invention;

Figs. 3 A-E are schematic illustrations of various prismatic solar collector, in accordance with some embodiment of the invention;

Figs. 4A-B are schematic illustrations of exemplary structures, in accordance with some embodiments of the invention;

Fig. 5 is an exemplary’ schematic illustration showing an array of prismatic solar collector and prismatic effects, in accordance with some embodiments of the invention;

Figs. 6A-C are schematic illustrations showing the angle of reflection of a ray of sunlight through a prismatic solar collector, in accordance with some embodiments of the invention; is schematic illustration;

Fig. 7A-B are schematic illustration showing the angle of reflection of a ray of sunlight through a prismatic solar collector in accordance with some embodiments of the invention;

Fig. 8A-B are schematic illustration showing the angle of refraction of a ray of sunlight through a prismatic solar collector, in accordance with some embodiments of the invention;

Fig. 9 is a schematic illustration showing the angle of refraction of a ray of sunlight through a prismatic solar collector, in accordance with some embodiments of the invention;

Fig. 10 is a schematic illustration showing the angle of reflections a ray of sunlight through a prismatic solar collector, in accordance with some embodiments of the invention;

Fig. 11 is a schematic illustration showing an array of prismatic solar collectors, in accordance with some embodiments of the invention;

Fig. 12 is a graph of the apparent sun angle seen through a prism dependent on the actual solar angle impinging on the prism, in accordance with an embodiment of the current invention;

Fig. 13 is a schematic illustration of refraction angle of a solar panel, in accordance with an embodiment of the invention;

Fig. 14 is a block diagram illustrating a prismatic solar collector, in accordance with some embodiments of the invention; (see 11 without side pieces)

Fig. 15 is a block diagram illustrating a prismatic solar collector, in accordance with some embodiments of the invention; Fig. 16 is a flow chart illustrating use of a prismatic solar collector, in accordance with some embodiments of the invention.

Fig. 17 is a flow chart illustrating use of a prismatic solar collector, in accordance with some embodiments of the invention;

Figs. 18A-C are illustrations of various views of structural arrays of prismatic solar collectors, in accordance with some embodiments of the invention;

Fig. 19A-B are illustrations of various views of a view' through prismatic solar collecting windows, in accordance with some embodiments of the invention;

Figs. 20A-B are schematic illustrations of placement of solar shelves on the outside of a building to collect the reflected sunlight from the reflective surface of the building, in accordance with an embodiment of the current invention;

Fig. 21 is a schematic illustration of the invention as it may be positioned on the outside of a building to collect the reflected sunlight from the reflective surface of the building in accordance with an embodiment of the current invention;

Figs. 22A-C are schematic illustrations of the invention showing how the windows and/or reflective siding of the building may be positioned at different angles, in accordance with an embodiment of the current invention;

Fig. 23 is a schematic illustration of a multifaceted surface that, may concentrate sun from many angles onto a solar collector, in accordance with an embodiment of the current invention;

Fig. 24 is a flow chart illustration of a method of the operation of the system, in accordance with an embodiment of the current invention; and

Fig. 25 is a block diagram illustration of a system, in accordance with an embodiment of the current invention.

DESCRIPTION OF SPECIFIC EMBODIMENTS OF THE INVENTION

Overview

For the sake of the current discl osure, a solar transducer refers to a device that converts the sun's radiant energy into another form of transportable usable energy. Examples of solar transducers include a photovoltaic (PV) collector and a solar thermal collector which heats for example liquid such as water.

For the sake of the current disclosure, a thermal collector is a device that converts solar energy into heat, warming up a confined fluid (usually water or air) circulating inside the collector. This heated fluid may then be used for various applications like space heating, hot water production, or industrial processes.

For the sake of the current disclosure, a PV collector is a device that converts sunlight directly into electricity through the photovoltaic effect. Without limiting the disclosure to a particular theoretical model, the photovoltaic effect may be described as where light knocks electrons loose in special materials, creating a flow of electric current PV collectors include, for example, crystalline silicon collectors. For example, crystalline silicone collectors include monocrystalline (e.g., made from high-purity silicon crystals) and Poly crystalline (e.g., using multiple silicon crystals). PV collectors include, for example, thin-fllm collectors. For example, a thin film collector may be made from layers of semiconductor materials deposited on a substrate. PV collectors include, for example, from emerging materials: (for example, perovskites and organic semiconductors).

Some embodiments relate to using buildings as solar collectors. Some embodiments relate to a system and/or method applicable to outer walls, roofs, and daylight elements (e.g., skylights and windows). Optionally, the buildings collect direct and/or indirect solar radiation at a range of angles.

For the sake of the current disclosure, a daylight element is any architectural feature intentionally designed to introduce natural light into a building's interior spaces. A daylight element includes architectural features designed to harness and distribute natural light within a building, enhancing illumination and reducing the need for artificial lighting. Transparent examples include windows, skylights, and clerestory' windows, which allow direct penetration of daylight into interior spaces. Translucent elements, such as frosted glass, light diffusing screens, or fabric shades may enable the transmission of diffused natural light while providing a level of privacy and reducing glare. Non-transparent examples include light shelves (e.g., horizontal surfaces placed near windows that reflect and redirect sunlight deeper into a space while shading it from direct glare) light tubes (sometimes referred to as sun tunnels) may include tubular devices that capture and transport daylight from the exterior to the interior, utilizing reflective surfaces to enhance light diffusion. Light wells, whether transparent or nontransparent, are vertical openings in a building that allow daylight to reach lower levels.

According to some embodiments, the system and/or method may relate to an enhanced collecting solar collector. According to some embodiments, an internal and/or external reflector may direct direct and/or indirect solar radiation onto a solar transducer (for example, a solar panel). Optionally, an external reflector may include a reflector external to a solar collector. Optionally, an external reflector may include a reflective surface, such as a window, cladding, etc. Optionally, an internal surface may be a reflector and/or refractor incorporated into a solar panel. Optionally, an internal reflector may be a reflective surface, e.g., a mirrored surface, an angled surface, etc. Optionally, the reflective surface may be added to the solar panel and/or to a building surface. Optionally, the reflective surface may be a surface of the solar panel and/or a building surface. Optionally, the building surface may be adjacent to the solar transducer. Optionally, the building surface may be a di stance from the solar transducer. Optionally, the distance from the solar transducer may be adjustable.

According to some embodiments, a prism may be used to collect solar radiation and/or direct the solar radiation onto a solar transducer. Some embodiments relate to a prismatic solar collector. According to some embodiments, the prismatic solar collector may be used to generate electricity. According to some embodiments, prismatic solar collectors may include a prism configured for directing solar energy onto one or more solar transducers. Optionally, prismatic solar collectors may include a prism configured to collect solar energy. Optionally, the prism may collect and/or reflect solar energy onto a solar transducer internal and/or external to the prism.

According to some embodiments, the prismatic solar collectors may collect direct and/or indirect solar radiation at a range of angles. According to some embodiments, the prismatic solar collectors may be incorporated into a solar array. Optionally, the prismatic solar collector may act as a solar array.

According to some embodiments, the prismatic solar collector may include a prismatic brick and/or block and/or column and/or tile and/or window and/or beam, etc. Optionally, the prismatic solar collector may be load bearing and/or non-load bearing.

According to some embodiments, the prismatic solar collectors may act as a prism. According to some embodiments, a prism may be used to collect solar radiation and/or direct the solar radiation onto a solar transducer. Optionally, the prismatic collector may facilitate passage of a certain amount of light, through the prism to supply light and/or a view to a space behind the collector. For example, the collector may act as a window and/or a skylight and/or a glass brick. Optionally, an optical element may facilitate collection of solar energy from a range of angles and/or allow diffuse light to pass through from another range of angles and/or allow viewing of a scene at another range angles. Optionally, the solar collector and/or optical element may be adjustable, e.g., in order to follow the passage of the sun across the sky.

Additionally, or alternatively, other technologies (e.g., reflectors and/or lenses) may be used to direct sunlight onto a solar transducer. According to some embodiments, reflected sunlight, may be collected. For example, many contemporary buildings, especially office buildings, are constructed with reflective siding. The reflective siding may be glass treated and/or coated with a material which reflects sunlight. The reflective siding may be cladding, (e.g., to protect the building from weather conditions, such as extreme heat, cold, wind, rain, etc., for aesthetic appeal, etc.).

In some embodiments, a system of solar collectors may be positioned to collect the solar radiation that is reflected off the reflective surfaces of a building, e.g., partially reflective windows.

Some embodiments may relate to a system and/or a method for positioning solar collectors to collect solar energy reflected from the surface of a building. For example, a solar transducer may be affixed to the base of the windows and/or reflective siding to collect reflected sunlight. Optionally, the reflective surface may concentrate solar energy.

According to some embodiments, solar transducers may be affixed to the side of a building. Optionally, the solar transducers may include photovoltaic cells to generate electricity. Alternatively, or additionally, the solar transducers may be solar thermal collectors to generate heat.

In some embodiments the building surface may be curved in order to more efficiently reflect, and/or concentrate the solar energy onto the solar transducers. In some embodiments the building surface and/or the solar collecting surface may be multi-faceted surfaces. For example: a window/ surface near the projecting transducer may be vertical and/or the surface above it may be tilted downwards, etc. In some embodiments the windows and/or the solar transducers may move and/or may be adjustable, e.g., in order to follow the passage of the sun across the sky.

According to some embodiments, direct solar energy from the sun may be directed on to a solar transducer to produce solar energy. Optionally, a refractor and/or a reflector may be used to direct light towards the solar transducer. For exampie, a refractor (e.g., a prism and/or a lens) may be used to enhance collection of sunlight from a variety of angles. For example, a prismatic collector may efficiently collect direct sunlight from a range of angles. In some embodiments, depending on the angle to the sun, a portion of sun light, may be directed onto a main solar transducer and/or another smaller portion to a secondary' solar transducer. According to some embodiments, the prismatic solar collectors may efficiently make use of both types of radiation reaching the main solar transducer and/or the secondary solar transducer.

According to some embodiments, light from other directions (e.g., reflected from objects, refracted in the atmosphere, the sun at low angles [e.g., during the winter and/or morning and/or evening, etc.) may be directed through the prism, e.g., to a secondary prism. For example, the portion of the total energy collected that is collected by the secondary transducer may be at least 15%, at least 20%, at least 25%, at least 30%, at least 35%, a least 40%, at least. 45%, and/or at least 50%. Each possibility is a separate embodiment.

According to some embodiments, indirect, light from other directions (e.g., reflected from objects, refracted in the atmosphere, etc.) may be directed through the prism, e.g., to the interior of the building and/or structure. According to some embodiments, the light directed into the building may be dispersed similarly to a regular glass brick.

In some embodiments, indirect, light from other directions (e.g., reflected from objects, refracted in the atmosphere, etc.) may be directed onto a solar transducer to produce solar energy. According to some embodiments, the efficiency of the prismatic solar collectors making use of both direct and indirect solar radiation may be at least 15%, at least 20%, at least. 25%, at. least 30%, at least 35%, a least 40%, at least 45%, and/or at least 50%. Each possibility is a separate embodiment.

According to some embodiments, direct sun light may be high intensity light. According to some embodiments, indirect sunlight may be low intensity light. According to some embodiments, indirect sunlight may have a lower intensity than direct sun light. According to some embodiments, indirect sunlight may be collected for solar energy production by the prismatic solar collectors. According to some embodiments, direct and/or indirect sunlight may be reflected onto solar transducers on one or more faces of the prismatic solar collectors. According to some embodiments, direct and/or indirect sunlight may be concentrated onto solar transducers on one or more faces of the prismatic solar collectors.

According to some embodiments, for direct sunlight may arrive at an angle where a large portion of the light is directed onto a main solar transducer on a first face of a prism and/or a smaller portion of the light may be directed onto a secondary solar transducer located on a different face of the prism. Optionally, for a plurality of prismatic collectors with similar angles of incidence and/or similar face angles, solar transducers with similar angles of incidence may be wired together. Alternatively, or additionally, a system may include one or more current and/or voltage converters. For example, a converter may facilitate connection between transducers that may be operating at different efficiency and/or at different incidence angles and/or different light intensities.

According to some embodiments, the prismatic solar collectors may collect high intensity and/or low intensity solar radiation. According to some embodiments, the prismatic solar collectors may include primary' solar transducers to collect high intensity and/or secondary solar transducers to collect low intensity solar radiation. According to some embodiments, the primary' and secondary solar transducers may be aligned parallel to each other. According to some embodiments, the solar transducers may be aligned vertically, horizontally and/or at an angle to the ground.

According to some embodiments, the primary- and/or secondary' solar transducers may be arranged in any configuration relative to one another, e.g., alternating transducers, alternating solar transducers, etc. According to some embodiments, the number of primary' and secondary solar transducers may be in a ratio of 1 : 1, 1:2, 1 :3, 1 :4, 1 :5, 2:1, 3: 1, 4: 1. 5: 1. According to some embodiments, the number of primary and secondary' solar transducers may have a ratio in the range 10:1 to 1 : 10,

According to some embodiments, the prismatic solar collectors and/or solar array may include a material which has a high refractive index (e.g., between 1 . 1. to 1 .2 and/or 1.2 to 1 .5 and/or 1 .5 to 1.9 and/or 1.9 to 2.5). According to some embodiments, the high refractive index of the prismatic solar collectors may advantageously change the angle of the incoming direct and/or indirect sunlight, thereby reducing the influence of the changing angle of the sun's rays throughout the day, and/or over all the seasons of the year, and/or from other directions (e.g., reflected from objects, refracted in the atmosphere, etc.). According to some embodiments, the prismatic solar collectors and/or solar array may be angled to receive sunlight over the majority of the day (e.g., at least 2/3 of the day and/or % of the day) and many or all seasons of the year. According to some embodiments, the prismatic solar collectors and/or solar array may be incorporated into buildings and/or structures which would traditionally be considered useless for solar energy production, since the prismatic solar collectors high refractive index may increase the range of angles at which they may be placed while still maintaining efficient solar energy production.

According to some embodiments, the prismatic solar collectors and/or solar array may inhibit shadowing by adjacent solar transducers and/or arrays. For example, the prismatic solar collectors and/or solar array may be staggered and/or arranged with different angles, e.g., in a zigzag pattern, etc. According to some embodiments, the high refractive index of the prismatic solar collectors and/or solar array may reduce and/or prevent shadowing by adjacent solar transducers and/or arrays.

According to some embodiments, the transparent, semi-transparent and/or translucent block of the prismatic solar collectors and/or solar array may split the incoming ray of sunlight. According to some embodiments, the transparent, semitransparent and/or translucent block of the prismatic solar collectors and/or solar array may split ray of sunlight may be directed over a larger surface of the solar transducers and/or solar array. According to some embodiments, the transparent, semi-transparent and/or translucent block of the prismatic solar collectors and/or solar array may allow the use of solar flux to generate solar energy.

In some embodiments, each collector includes a convenient connector structure to facilitate interconnections and/or power collection. Optionally, the power connectors include converters, e.g., to facilitate interconnections between collectors under different light and/or efficiency conditions.

According to some embodiments, the prismatic solar collectors may be incorporated into solar arrays. According to some embodiments, the prismatic solar collectors and/or solar array may be at an angle to receive direct and/or indirect sunlight at many hours of the day and seasons of the year, and/or from other directions (e.g., reflected from objects, refracted in the atmosphere, etc.).

According to some embodiments, the prismatic solar collectors may allow entrance of diffuse light. According to some embodiments, the prismatic solar collectors may be positioned such that direct and/or indirect sunlight may be collected by the solar collectors. According to some embodiments, the prismatic solar collectors act as a concentrator, concentrating energy from the direction of the sun from a large area to a small solar transducer, advantageously saving transducer surface area, solar collection space, and money.

According to some embodiments, the prismatic solar collectors may be efficient at many solar angles without requiring adjusting their angles and/or locations to collect only direct sun light, as in conventional solar panels. According to some embodiments, the prismatic solar collectors may be configured for collectors installed at various angles to the sun. According to some embodiments, the prismatic solar collectors may be useful for siding placed on building walls and/or roofs and/or pillars, etc.

According to some embodiments, the prismatic solar collectors may have high tensile strength. According to some embodiments, the prismatic solar collectors may be incorporated into building components (e.g., walls, pillars, beams, windows, skylights, siding on building walls and/or roofs and/or pillars, etc.).

According to some embodiments, the prismatic solar collectors may concentrate sunlight coming from one side (e.g., from the outside) from a few angles to solar collectors while appearing transparent from the opposite side (e.g., from the inside) at certain viewing angles. According to some embodiments, the prismatic solar collectors may provide a clear view of the outside at limited angles (e.g., from 20 degrees (above to the horizon) to -50 degrees (below the horizon) and/or from 0 degrees downward and/or from 40 degrees and downward). According to some embodiments, the prismatic solar collectors may be transparent in one or more directions. According to some embodiments, the prismatic solar collectors may be translucent.

According to some embodiments, the prismatic solar collectors may allow dual use of space, without the solar collectors dominating the view' and/or the land use. For example, a solar panel may be a structural element (e.g., a column, an external wall, an internal wall, siding on building walls and/or roofs and/or pillars, etc.). According to some embodiments, the prismatic solar collectors may be load bearing and/or non-load bearing. According to some embodiments, the prismatic solar collectors may be stacked and/or used as building blocks to form various structures.

According to some embodiments, the prismatic solar collectors and/or solar array may include one or more spacers. According to some embodiments, the spacers may be prismatic bricks without solar transducers, traditional glass or thermoplastic, prismatic blocks with different optical properties, empty space, etc. According to some embodiments, the prismatic solar collector and/or solar array may include a transparent, semi-transparent and/or translucent block with a solar transducer on one or more sides of the prism. According to some embodiments, sunlight may pass through the transparent, semi-transparent and/or translucent block (e.g., directly and/or indirectly) to the solar transducers, where solar energy may be generated.

According to some embodiments, the prismatic solar collectors may be composed of a transparent, partially transparent, translucent and/or opaque material. Non-limiting examples of suitable materials are glass, acrylic (polymethyl methacrylate), butyrate (cellulose acetate butyrate), polyvinyl chloride, polycarbonate, polyethylene terephthalate, glycol modified polyethylene terphthalate, polytetrafluoroethylene, polystyrene, polypropylene, polyamide, polyethylene, fluoride glass, etc.

According to some embodiments, the prismatic solar collectors and/or solar array may have various shapes. Non-limiting examples of suitable shapes are triangular (e.g., isosceles, equilateral, scalene, obtuse, acute, right, etc.), rectangular (e.g., pillars, stepped forms, beams, lintels, spaced apart beams and/or pillars (e.g., with traditional glass or empty space in between)), trapezoid (e.g., isosceles, scalene, and right), curved, etc.

According to some embodiments, the prismatic solar collectors and/or solar array may be solid and/or hollow. According to some embodiments, the prismatic solar collectors and/or solar array may include a reservoir. According to some embodiments, a reservoir may contain a transparent liquid with good optical refraction, e.g., water, oil, etc. According to some embodiments, the liquid may provide the prismatic effect. According to some embodiments, the liquid may refract, reflect and/or concentrate the incoming sunlight. According to some embodiments, the liquid may cool the solar collectors. According to some embodiments, the liquid, e.g., water, may be heated by the incoming sunlight, to provide heating and/or hot water to the structure, e.g., building, house, etc.

According to some embodiments, the prismatic solar collectors and/or solar array may prevent shadowing by adjacent solar collectors and/or arrays. According to some embodiments, the prismatic solar collectors and/or solar array may be arranged with different angles, e.g., in a zigzag pattern, etc. According to some embodiments, the high refractive index of the prismatic solar collectors and/or solar array may reduce and/or prevent shadowing by adjacent solar collectors and/or arrays.

According to some embodiments, the transparent, semi-transparent and/or translucent block of the prismatic solar collectors and/or solar array may split the incoming direct and/or indirect sunlight. According to some embodiments, the transparent, semi-transparent and/or translucent block of the prismatic solar collectors and/or solar array may direct direct and/or indirect sunlight over a larger surface of the solar collectors and/or solar array. According to some embodiments, the transparent, semi-transparent and/or translucent block of the prismatic solar collectors and/or solar array may allow the use of solar flux to generate solar energy.

According to some embodiments, the prismatic solar collectors and/or solar array may have high efficiency due to their use of solar flux. According to some embodiments, the prismatic solar collectors and/or solar array may utilize the solar flux that passes through the refraction surface and may spread it over a greater area of solar transducers, thereby increasing the energy output and/or efficiency of the prismatic solar collectors and/or solar array. According to some embodiments, the dispersion of the solar flux within the three-dimensional depth of the prismatic solar collectors and/or solar array may provide high efficiency for the solar flux passing through the refraction surface (outer surface) dimensional depth of the prismatic solar collectors and/or solar array.

According to some embodiments, the prismatic solar collectors and/or solar array may allow rays of direct and/or indirect sunlight to enter the refraction zone, may trap the rays within their structure and/or may produce secondary reflections, such that the rays which enters the structure contact the solar transducer several times. According to some embodiments, the prismatic solar collectors and/or solar array may effectively create a situation in which the solar rays are "imprisoned" within the structure such that the solar transducers may be exposed to several cycles of solar radiation from one incoming solar ray. According to some embodiments, due to the refraction effect of the prismatic solar collectors and/or solar array, any solar ray that enters the prismatic solar collectors and/or solar array at any angle may be refracted, and/or reflected therewithin to provide high coverage of the solar transducers. Advantageously, these effects may allow the use of fewer solar transducers per meter to obtain the same amount or more of solar energy as conventional solar panels. According to some embodiments, the prismatic solar collectors and/or solar array may, in addition to providing solar energy, reduce sunlight entering a building through the windows, thereby reducing heating in summer, avoiding annoying glare, reducing color fading of furniture, carpeting and art work.

According to some embodiments, the prismatic solar collectors and/or solar array may be used to collect heat, may act as heat sinks and/or may include a system for collecting thermal energy. According to some embodiments, the prismatic solar collectors and/or solar array may include solar energy collectors and/or thermal energy collectors. According to some embodiments, the prismatic solar collectors and/or solar array may be cooled by thermal energy collectors and/or by a water system running through or near the prismatic solar collectors and/or solar array.

According to some embodiments, the prismatic solar collectors and/or solar array may be set up on a location which faces the sun, e.g., southern, eastern and/or western exposure. According to some embodiments, the prismatic solar collectors and/or solar array may not face the sun directly, but may concentrate diffuse sunlight. According to some embodiments, the prismatic solar collectors and/or solar array may collect light from many different azimuths and/or elevation angles as the sun moves in the sky, including different angles to the sun in winter and summer.

According to some embodiments, the prismatic solar collectors and/or solar array may be used in the construction of curtain wails, skylights, greenhouses, roofs, pergolas, pillars, window's, solar panels for space applications, solar panels for agricultural applications, acoustic walls, stair panels, sidewalk curbs, sidings for walls and/or roofs and/or pillars, etc.

According to some embodiments, the prismatic solar collectors and/or solar array may, in addition to providing solar energy, reduce direct sun through windows, thereby reducing heating in summer, avoiding annoying glare, reducing color fading of furniture, carpeting and art work. According to some embodiments, windows constructed from one or more prismatic solar collectors and/or solar array (e.g., with or without spacers) may be used to redirect a view', e.g., window on first floor may be directed away from a dirty street, when look out window only see nearby buildings and/or sky.

In some embodiments, the faces of a prism may be straight. Optionally, the prism may not significantly concentrate light. For example, the concentration ratio may be between 0.95 to 1.05 and/or between 0.8 to 0.95 and/or between 1.05 to 1.1 and/or between 1.1 to 1.5 and/or between 0.8 to 1.1. Optionally the outer surface of a building may be smooth and/or the outer faces of prismatic solar collectors may be parallel and/or the outer surface of a building may include and/or be made up of parallel surfaces of solar collectors.

According to some embodiments, the prismatic solar collectors and/or solar array may be set up on a location which faces the sun, e.g., southern, eastern and/or western exposure. According to some embodiments, the prismatic solar collectors and/or solar array may not face the sun directly but may concentrate diffuse sunlight. Alternatively, or additionally, a solar array may not face the sun directly and/or an optical element (e.g., a prism and/or an element having a curved surface and/or a reflector) may direct light falling at low angle on the face of the element to solar transducers. For example, the solar transducers may be mounted on another face of the optical element. According to some embodiments, the prismatic solar collectors and/or solar array may collect light from many different azimuths and/or elevation angles as the sun moves in the sky, including different angles to the sun in winter and summer.

According to some embodiments, the prismatic solar collectors and/or solar array may be used in the construction of curtain walls, skylights, greenhouses, roofs, pergolas, pillars, windows, solar collectors for space applications, solar collectors for agricultural applications, acoustic walls, stair panels, sidewalk curbs, etc.

For example, prismatic solar collectors may be incorporated into a photoelectric window. An observer inside the building may be able to see in certain directions outside clearly, however in other directions, particularly looking toward the sun, the observer's view may be blocked and/or redirected by the prism.

Specific Embodiments Before explaining at least one embodiment of the invention in detail, it is to be understood that the invention is not necessarily limited in its application to the details of construction and the arrangement of the components and/or methods set forth in the following description and/or illustrated in the drawings and/or the Examples. The invention is capable of other embodiments or of being practiced or carried out in various ways.

Reference is now made to the figures:

Figs. 1A-D are schematic illustrations of various prismatic solar collectors in accordance with some embodiment of the invention. For example, suitable shapes may be triangular (e.g., isosceles, equilateral, scalene, obtuse, acute, right, etc.), rectangular (e.g., pillars, stepped forms, beams, lintels, spaced apart beams and/or pillars (e.g., with traditional glass or empty space in between)), trapezoid (e.g., isosceles, scalene, and right), curved, etc.

According to some embodiments, the solar transducers 100 may be applied to one or more faces of the prismatic blocks. Optionally, the blocks may be any shape and/or dimensions required. For example, a cube, a conical section, a cylinder, a triangular prism, a hexagonal prism, a trapezoidal prism, etc. Prisms may be stacked and/or stacked in a staggered formation. For example, a wall made of staggered rectangular prisms. Optionally, one or more faces of the prism may be directed toward the sun and/or at an angle to the sun and/or a solar transducer may be mounted on one or more opposing faces facing directly towards and/or at an angle to the sun.

For example, trapezoidal prisms may be stacked and/or stacked or lined up in a straight formation and/or in a staggered formation. Optionally, the wide face of the prism may be directed towards the sun and/or at an angle to the sun and/or a solar transducer may be mounted on one or more opposing faces facing directly and/or at an angle to the sun.

For example, the prism may have a variety of shapes, e.g., a block and/or a trapezoid and/or triangular. Optionally, the prismatic solar collector may include solar transducers on one or more faces. Optionally, the transparent, semi-transparent and/or translucent block of the prismatic solar collectors and/or solar array may allow the use of solar flux to generate solar energy. Optionally, the prismatic solar collectors and/or solar array may have high efficiency due to their use of solar flux. Optionally, the prismatic solar collectors and/or solar array may utilize the solar flux that passes through the refraction surface and redirect it and/or direct it. to solar transducers. For example, light coming at a high angle to a surface (e.g., a wall) may be redirected directly at solar transducers parallel to a surface. Optionally this may increase the energy output and/or efficiency of the prismatic solar collectors and/or solar array. Optionally, the dispersion of the solar flux within the three-dimensional depth of the prismatic solar collectors and/or solar array may provide high efficiency for the solar flux passing through the refraction surface (outer surface) dimensional depth of the prismatic solar collectors and/or solar array. Optionally, light to pass into the building through some of the prismatic surfaces (e.g., a daylight element).

Fig. 2 is a schematic illustration of a prismatic solar collector in accordance with some embodiments of the invention. For example, the prismatic solar collector may include a transparent, semi-transparent and/or translucent prism 202 with a solar transducer 200 on one or more faces (e.g., on the faces opposite the sun for example on the northern side and/or the bottom such that sunlight passing through a block from above and/or from the South is directed toward the transducers). Light is optionally transferred to a converter and/or electricity grid through connecting wires 204. Optionally, sunlight passes through the transparent, semi-transparent and/or translucent block (e.g., directly and/or indirectly) to the solar transducers, where solar energy may be generated.

Optionally, an array of prismatic solar collectors may be connected with various angles therebetween, e.g., to allow various amounts of light to pass through the array and/or to trap solar flux entering the prisms from various angles. According to some embodiments, the prismatic solar collectors may provide a clear view of the outside at limited angles. According to some embodiments, the prismatic solar collectors may be transparent in one or more directions. According to some embodiments, the solar array may be used to redirect a view. Alternatively or additionally, the block may be translucent in one or more directions (e.g., transmitting diffuse light from outside into a building).

Optionally, sun light from various angles (e.g., above) is directed and/or concentrated by prism onto solar transducers on a face (e.g., a bottom face) of a prismatic solar collector while to a person looking horizontally through the prismatic solar collector (e.g., window) it may appear transparent (from certain angles, e.g., not in the predominant, solar direction e.g., looking downward and/or Northward (e.g., in the Northern hemisphere)). Alternatively or additionally, the prisms may be configured to hide a portion of an external scene (e.g., if the building is above a dirty street, the field of view of a person looking from inside downward to the street may be blocked). Similarly, vertical pillars may catch sun light from various azimuth angles.

Optionally, prismatic blocks may be arranged horizontally and/or vertically and/or at another angle. Optionally, the prismatic solar collectors and/or solar array may be used in the construction of curtain walls, skylights, greenhouses, roofs, pergolas, pillars, windows, solar panels for space applications, solar collectors for agricultural applications, acoustic walls, stair panels, sidewalk curbs, etc.

Optionally, the prismatic solar collectors may be arranged symmetrically in various patterns to provide coverage of a large area. Optionally, spacers between the prismatic solar collectors may be opaque, transparent, semi-transparent and/or translucent. Optionally, the spacers may allow passage of controlled amounts of light through the solar array.

According to some embodiments, due to the refraction effect of the prismatic solar collectors and/or solar array, any solar ray that enters the prismatic solar collectors and/or solar array at any angle may be refracted, and/or reflected therewithin to provide high coverage of the solar transducers. Advantageously, these effects may allow the use of fewer solar cells per meter to obtain the same amount or more of solar energy as conventional solar panels.

Figs. 3A-E are schematic illustrations of various prismatic solar collector in accordance with some embodiment of the invention. For example, the prismatic solar collector may include a transparent, semi-transparent and/or translucent with solar transducers applied to one or more faces of the prismatic blocks. Optionally, the blocks may be any shape and/or dimensions required. Optionally, sunlight passes through the transparent, semi-transparent and/or translucent block (e.g., directly and/or indirectly) to the solar transducers, where solar energy may be generated.

According to some embodiments, only one face of the prismatic solar collector may include solar transducers (e.g., Fig. 3A). According to some embodiments, two or more faces of the prismatic solar collectors may include solar transducers (e.g., Figs. 3B-E). Optionally, the solar transducers on the two or more faces may be the same (e.g., Figs. 3B and 3D), such as, primary solar transducers 302 configured to collect direct solar radiation or secondary' solar transducers 300 configured to collect indirect solar radiation. Optionally, the solar transducers on one or more faces may be configured to collect different radiation (e.g., Figs. 3C and 3E), such as one or more primary/ solar transducers configured to collect direct solar radiation and one or more secondary solar transducers configured to collect indirect solar radiation.

Figs, 4A-B are schematic illustrations of exemplary prismatic solar arrays in accordance with some embodiments of the invention. For example, the prismatic solar collectors 400 may be load bearing and/or non-load bearing. Optionally, the prismatic solar collectors may be stacked and/or used as building blocks to form various structures. Optionally, the prismatic solar collectors and/or solar array may include one or more spacers 406. Optionally, the spacers may be prismatic bricks without solar transducers, traditional glass or thermoplastic, prismatic blocks with different optical properties, empty space, thin glass or plastic windows with space inside and/or outside around the prisms etc. Optionally, the prismatic solar collectors may include one or more solar transducers 402 which may be connected to a converter and/or transformer by one or more connecting wires 404.

Fig. 5 is an exemplary schematic illustration showing an array of solar transducers and prismatic effects in accordance with some embodiments of the invention . For exampl e, an array of solar collectors may be connected side by side, with their solar transducers 504 on the same faces and/or different faces. Optionally, the solar array may comprise a zigzagging pattern of solar transducers. According to some embodiments, the prismatic solar collectors 502 and/or solar array 504 may allow sunlight ray to enter the refraction zone, may trap the rays within their structure and/or may produce secondary reflections, such that the rays of sunlight 500 which enters the structure contact the solar transducer several times. According to some embodiments, the prismatic solar collectors and/or solar array may effectively create a situation in which the solar rays are “imprisoned” within the structure such that the solar transducers may be exposed to several generations of radiation from one incoming solar ray. According to some embodiments, due to the refraction effect of the prismatic solar collectors and/or solar array, any solar ray that enters the prismatic solar collectors and/or solar array at any angle may be refracted, and/or reflected therewithin to provide high coverage of the solar transducers. Optionally, the prismatic solar collectors may include one or more solar transducers 504 w'hich may be connected to a converter and/or transformer by one or more connecting wires 506.

According to some embodiments, the solar transducers may be configured to collect direct and/or indirect solar radiation. Optionally, the transparent, semitransparent and/or translucent prism of the prismatic solar collectors and/or solar array may allow the use of solar flux to generate solar energy. Optionally, the prismatic solar collectors and/or solar array may have high efficiency due to their use of solar flux. Optionally, the prismatic solar collectors and/or solar array may utilize the solar flux that passes through the refraction surface and may spread it over a greater area of solar transducers, thereby increasing the energy output and/or efficiency of the prismatic solar collectors and/or solar array. Optionally, the dispersion of the solar flux within the three-dimensional depth of the prismatic solar collectors and/or solar array may provide high efficiency for the solar flux passing through the refraction surface (outer surface) dimensional depth of the prismatic solar collectors and/or solar array.

Figs. 6/VC are schematic illustrations showing walls of prismatic solar collector in accordance with some embodiments of the invention. In some embodiments, a building element (e.g., a wall, a roof, a pillar, a beam) may be constructed from an array of prismatic solar collectors. According to some embodiments, the solar transducers may include primary and/or secondary solar transducers. According to some embodiments, the outer faces of the solar collectors may be aligned parallel to each other. For example, the outer faces of the solar collectors may be for a flat wall. According to some embodiments, the solar collectors may be aligned vertically, horizontally and/or at an angle to the ground.

Figs. 3A and 3B illustrate a wall made of triangular cross section prismatic collectors. In some embodiments, each collector includes multiple solar transducers on back faces of a prism 600. For example, first transducer 606 on each collector may collect light at high incidence angles 602 (e.g., direct daytime sun in the summer) and/or a second transducer 608 on each transducer collects low incidence angle light 604 (e.g., reflected light, light at evening or morning, winter light). Optionally, an incident beam may be reflected within the prism onto the first and/or second solar collectors.

In some embodiments, the first transducer 606 of different transducers may be all irradiated at a similar level and/or the second transducers 608 of different transducers may be all irradiated at a similar level but the first transducer may be irradiated at a different intensity than the first transducer. Optionally, the power outputs of the first transducers of different collectors are connected together (e.g., in series, in parallel, etc.). Optionally, the power outputs of the second transducers of different collectors are connected together (e.g., in series) separately from the first transducers. Alternatively, or additionally, the first and second transducers may be interconnected (for example using a power converter in between). In some embodiments, each collector includes a convenient connector structure to facilitate interconnections and/or power collection. Optionally, the power connectors include converters, e.g., to facilitate interconnections between collectors under different light and/or efficiency conditions.

Fig. 6C illustrates a wall made with rectangular prismatic collectors 600 and spacers 610. For example, the prismatic collectors may collect solar energy from many angles and/or the spacers may fill in shadowed areas. Optionally, the spacers may include windows and/or a translucent and/or opaque wall element. In some embodiments, a prismatic beam may direct light coming from the sun from many angles (e.g., for above and/or one or both sides) to solar transducers on one or two sides and/or below and/or above and/or the behind the beam. Optionally a few such beams may be set apart and/or staggered to collect light from an area with reduced shading of one beam against the other. Optionally, the outer faces and/or inner faces (e.g., the faces inside the building) of the solar collectors may be parallel and/or staggered.

According to some embodiments, the primary transducer 606 and/or secondary transducer 608 solar transducers may be arranged in any configuration relative to one another, e.g,, alternating transducers. According to some embodiments, the number of primary and secondary' solar transducers may be in a ratio of 1 : 1, 1 :2, 1 :3, 1 :4, 1 :5, 2: 1, 3: 1, 4: 1. 5: 1. According to some embodiments, the number of primary and secondary solar transducers may have a ratio in the range 10: 1 to 1 : 10.

According to some embodiments, the prismatic solar collectors may be load bearing and/or non-load bearing. Optionally, the prismatic solar collectors may be stacked and/or used as building blocks to form various structures. Optionally, the prismatic solar collectors and/or solar array may include one or more spacers. Optionally, the spacers may be prismatic bricks without solar transducers, traditional glass or thermoplastic, prismatic blocks with different optical properties, empty space, etc.

For example, the prismatic solar collectors may be arranged symmetrically in various patterns to provide coverage of a large area. Optionally, spacers between the prismatic solar collectors may be opaque, transparent, semi-transparent and/or translucent. Optionally, the spacers may allow passage of controlled amounts of light through the solar array.

According to some embodiments, due to the refraction effect of the prismatic solar collectors and/or solar array, any solar ray that enters the prismatic solar collectors and/or solar array at any angle may be refracted, and/or reflected therewithin to provide high coverage of the solar transducers. Advantageously, these effects may allow the use of fewer solar transducers per meter to obtain the same amount or more of solar energy as conventional solar panels.

For example, an array of solar collectors may be connected side by side, with their solar transducers on the same faces and/or different faces. Optionally, the solar array may comprise a zigzagging pattern of solar transducers. According to some embodiments, the prismatic solar collectors and/or solar array may allow sunlight ray to enter the refraction zone, may trap the rays within their structure and/or may produce secondary reflections, such that the rays which enters the structure contact the solar transducer several times. According to some embodiments, the prismatic solar collectors and/or solar array may effectively create a situation in which the solar rays are "imprisoned" within the structure such that the solar transducers may be exposed to several cycles of solar radiation from one incoming solar ray. According to some embodiments, due to the refraction effect of the prismatic solar collectors and/or solar array, any solar ray that enters the prismatic solar collectors and/or solar array at any angle may be refracted, and/or reflected therewithin to provide high coverage of the solar transducers.

According to some embodiments, an array of prismatic solar coll ectors may be connected with various angles therebetween, e.g., to allow various amounts of direct and/or indirect light to pass through the array and/or to trap solar flux entering the prisms from various angles. Optionally, spacers between the prismatic solar collectors may be opaque, transparent, semi-transparent and/or translucent. Optionally, the spacers may allow passage of controlled amounts of light through the solar array. For example, vertical prismatic collectors may catch sun light from various azimuth angles.

Figs. 7A-B are schematic illustrations showing the angle of refraction 702 of a ray of sunlight through a prismatic solar collector in accordance with some embodiments of the invention. For example, the prism 704 of the prismatic solar collector may change the refractive angle 702 of the sunlight 700 as it passes through the refractive surface of the prism, to redirect it onto the solar transducers on one or more faces of the prismatic solar collector 706. Optionally, the prism of the prismatic solar collector may split the solar ray 700 and/or bounce the solar ray about the interior of the prism 704 to allow absorption over a large surface of the solar transducers.

According to some embodiments, the high refractive index of the prismatic solar collectors and/or solar array may advantageously change the angle of the incoming sunlight, thereby reducing the influence of the changing angle of the sun's rays throughout the day, and/or over all the seasons of the year.

In some embodiments, a person looking from inside out may see downward and/or outward, but his view of the sun may be blocked. Optionally, this may decrease heating and/or glare due to sunlight inside the building and/or harness direct sunlight for solar energy generation. In some embodiments, the window supplies diffuse and/or refracted light into the building and/or low intensity light into the building. In some embodiments, the window facilitates viewing out of the building at selected angles.

In some embodiments, a prismatic beam may direct light coming from the sun from many angles (e.g., for above and/or one or both sides) to solar transducers on one or two sides and/or below and/or above the beam. Optionally, an observer may see through sides of the beam that don’t have solar transducers. Optionally a few such beams may be set apart and/or staggered to collect light from an area with reduced shading of one beam against the other. It is apparent in the image that light that hits the top of the prism is refracted downward towards the horizontal solar transducer. Thus, from the point the view of the image, the horizontal solar transducer at the bottom of the prism is seen from a view even at a small angle above the prism. Thus, the prisms capture sunlight at a large range of angles from above the collector while a person looking horizontally outward and a limited range of angles sees outward with little obstruction.

Figs. 8A-B are schematic illustrations showing the angle of refraction 802 of a ray of sunlight through a prismatic solar collector in accordance with some embodiments of the invention. For example, the prism 804 of the prismatic solar collector may change the refractive angle 802 of the direct and/or indirect solar rays 800 as they pass through the refractive surface of the prism, to redirect them onto one or more solar transducers on one or more faces of the prismatic solar collector 804. Optionally, the prism of the prismatic solar collector may split the solar ray and/or bounce the solar rays about the interior of the prism to allow absorption over a large surface of the solar transducers 808, 810.

According to some embodiments, the high refractive index of the prismatic solar collectors and/or solar array may advantageously change the angle of the incoming sunlight 800, thereby reducing the influence of the changing angle of the sun's rays throughout the day, and/or over all the seasons of the year.

According to some embodiments, the prismatic solar collectors 808, 810 may be used in conjunction with one or more conventional solar collectors 812 and/or thin film solar panels.

Fig. 9 and Fig. 10 are schematic illustrations showing the angle of refraction of a ray 902, 1002 of sunlight through prismatic solar collector in accordance with some embodiments of the invention. For example, the prism 904, 1004 may have a variety of shapes, e.g., a block and/or a trapezoid. Optionally, the prismatic solar collector may include solar transducers 906, 908, 1006, 1008, 1010 on one or more faces. Optionally, the solar transducers 906, 908, 1006, 1008, 1010 may be configured to collect direct and/or indirect solar radiation 900, 1000. Optionally, the transparent, semi-transparent and/or translucent prism of the prismatic solar collectors and/or solar array may allow the use of solar flux to generate solar energy. Optionally, the prismatic solar collectors and/or solar array may have high efficiency due to their use of solar flux. Optionally, the prismatic solar collectors and/or solar array may utilize the solar flux that passes through the refraction surface and may spread it over a greater area of solar transducers, thereby increasing the energy output and/or efficiency of the prismatic solar collectors and/or solar array. Optionally, the dispersion of the solar flux within the three- dimensional depth of the prismatic solar collectors and/or solar array may provide high efficiency for the solar flux passing through the refraction surface (outer surface) dimensional depth of the prismatic solar collectors and/or solar array.

Fig. 11 is a schematic illustration showing a window made of an array of collectors in accordance with some embodiments of the invention. For example, a window may be constructed from an array of prismatic solar collectors 1100. Sunlight 1102 coming from above at an angle to the prism may be redirected downward to a horizontal solar transducer 1104 while the view from a personal looking outward horizontally may pass through the prism allowing him to see the outside at least at some angle. According to some embodiments, the solar collectors may be aligned parallel to each other. According to some embodiments, the solar collectors may be aligned vertically, horizontally and/or at an angle to the ground. Optionally, the prism may have any shape and/or cross section. Optionally, the inner and/or outer face of the window may be a smooth and/or flat surface. For example, inner and/or outer face of the window may include a series of parallel linear and/or flat surface of the collectors.

Fig. 12 is a graph of the apparent sun angle seen through a prism dependent on the actual solar angle impinging on the prism, in accordance with an embodiment of the current invention. For example, an embodiment of the current invention may with a high refractive index (e.g., ranging between 1 .5 and 4.2). Without limiting the current invention to any theoretical framework, an effect of refracting the light rays is created, which is represented according to Snell ^!s law for the refraction of light passing between two refractive indices. It can be seen in Fig. 12, that given the angles of the sun's rays between 50 and 82 degrees relative to the true horizon line, the refraction effect produces a (non-linear) copy 1201 in the space between the refraction to angles of between 27 and 37 degrees, that is, between which the refraction takes place, the sun is at low angles significantly more than the horizon line. In some embodiments, this flattening of the solar angle by the non-linear refractive creates an advantage that a change in the angle of the sun relative to the horizon during the seasons or throughout the day has less effect (e.g., in the case illustrated in the graph a ratio ranging of 10/32) on the angle in the medium of refraction in a plate with a refractive index. Optionally , the refractive index of a prism in embodiments of the current invention may range for example, between 1.1 to 1.3 and/or between 1.3 to 1.5 and/or between 1.5 to 1.9 and/or between 1.9 to 2.5. In some embodiments, using a prismatic collector, photovoltaic transducers can be placed at angles of between 63 and 53 degrees (90-27:90-37) and always remain at a good angle for the sun at all hours of the day and all seasons of the year.

Fig. 13 is a schematic illustration of refraction angle of a solar panel, in accordance with an embodiment of the invention. For example, the figure shows a sun ray 1302 impinging of the prism at a first angle 1306 to the horizon refracting to an apparent angle 1308 coming into the building as a refracted beam 1304.

Fig. 14 is a block diagram illustrating a prismatic solar collector in accordance with some embodiments of the invention. For example, the prismatic solar collector may include a transparent, semi-transparent and/or translucent prism 1400 with a solar transducer 1402 on one or more sides of the block, and may generate solar power which may be transferred to a converter and/or electricity grid through connecting wires 1404. Fig. 15 is a block diagram illustrating a prismatic solar collector in accordance with some embodiments of the invention. For example, the prismatic solar collector may include a transparent, semi-transparent and/or translucent prism 1500 with a solar transducer 1502 on one or more sides of the block, and may generate solar power which may be transferred to a converter and/or electricity grid through connecting wires 1504. Optionally, the prismatic solar collectors may be used in conjunction with one or more conventional solar transducers 1506 and/or thin film solar transducers, which may generate solar power which may be transferred to a converter and/or electricity grid through connecting wires 1508 and/or may be connected to the same system as the prismatic solar collectors.

Fig. 16 is a flow chart illustrating use of a prismatic solar collector in accordance with some embodiments of the invention. For example, in method 1600, rays of sunlight pass 1602 through the refractive surface of a prismatic solar collector, the rays are trapped 1604 within the prism, where they are split and repeatedly bounced 1606 between the various faces of the prism onto the solar transducers, to provide solar energy 1608 with high efficiency.

Fig. 17 is a flow chart illustrating use of a prismatic solar collector in accordance with some embodiments of the invention. For example, in method 1700 rays of sunlight pass 1702 through the refractive surface of a prismatic solar collector. Rays from some directions are optionally directed to a solar transducer while rays from another direction are directed into the building. For example, high intensity rays (e.g., from angles of direct sunlight) are directed 1704 on the solar transducer. For example, low' intensity rays are allowed to pass 1706 into the building. Alternatively, or additionally, some rays are trapped within the prism, where they are split and repeatedly bounced between the various faces of the prism onto the solar transducers. Thereby, providing 1708 solar energy with high efficiency.

Figs. 18A-C are exemplary' photographs showing various structural arrays of transparent solar transducers in accordance with some embodiments of the invention. For example, prismatic blocks may be arranged horizontally and/or vertically and/or at another angle. The prismatic blocks 1800 may include vertical solar transducers 1802, horizontal solar transducers 1806, and/or spacers 1804.

In some embodiments, a prismatic pillar may direct light coming from the sun from many angles (e.g., for above and/or one or both sides) to solar transducers on one or two sides and/or below and/or above the pillar. Optionally, an observer may see through sides of the pillar that don’t have solar transducers. Optionally a few such pillars may be set apart and/or staggered to collect light from an area with reduced shading of one beam against the other.

Figs. 19A-B are images of prismatic solar collecting windows in accordance with some embodiments of the invention. In some embodiments, a window may be constructed from prismatic solar collectors. Optionally, the collectors may be of various shapes and/or materials to capture light coming at various angles to the prisms (e.g., from the outside and above the window) and allow viewing from various angles (e.g., from the inside outward). Optionally, the prisms may be spaced apart. Between the prisms there may be empty space, opaque spacers and/or clear spacers (e.g., conventional windows). For example, an image of a window made with prismatic collectors including solar transducers 1900 and spacers 1902 are, from at least some viewing angles, appears transparent. Optionally, the inner and/or outer face of the window may be a smooth and/or flat surface. For example, inner and/or outer face of the window may include a series of parallel linear and/or flat surface of the collectors.

In the figures are illustrated a prismatic collector window hanging in front of a scene (not part of a wall). Behind the window is a scene of a child playing. In some embodiments, the solar collectors are positioned approximately horizontally (parallel to the ground) such that looking horizontally through the window one sees the child playing and the thin edges of the solar collectors which appear as horizontal lines crossing the window. In some embodiments, when the observer inside the building looks upward through a window (in accordance with an embodiment of the invention), towards the sun, the window appears opaque. Optionally, when the observer looks horizontally through the window, it appears transparent (e.g., similar to Venetian blinds which allow one to see only parallel to the blinds). Optionally, from the other side, the sun shining inward and downward over a large range of angles is refracted by the prisms to the horizontal solar collectors. In some embodiments, the window thus acts as a window allowing a person inside to see outward at horizontal and/or slightly downward angles, as a solar collector (e.g., producing electricity from sunlight impinging on the outside of the window from above) and/or like a filter, allowing a view outside the window but blocking direct sun into the room.

Figs. 20A-B are schematic illustrations of the invention as it may be positioned on the outside of a building to collect the reflected sunlight from the reflective surface 2202 of the building, in accordance with some embodiments. For example, solar collectors 2004 may be installed along a large portion of the building (e.g., a southern facing wall) and/or regularly spaced. Optionally, the solar collectors 2204 may extend horizontally from a surface of the building. Optionally, the solar collectors may be orientated towards the sun, and/or towards the building, and/or towards a reflector, and/or concentrator. Optionally, the windows and/or building cladding may reflect sunlight 2006 onto one or more solar collectors 2004.

In some embodiments, the solar collectors may be oriented with similar angles. In some embodiments, solar collectors may be positioned perpendicular to a building surface, e.g., wall, window; etc. Optionally, the solar collectors on one wall and/or over an area of the wall and/or over multiple walls may be designed for uniformity (e.g., to present an aesthetic uniform appearance). Optionally, the one or more solar collectors 2002 may be oriented to collect reflected sunlight 2006 from windows and/or building cladding. Optionally, the one or more solar collectors may collect direct and/or indirect sunlight. Optionally, the orientation of the one or more solar collectors may be adjusted. Optionally, the one or more solar collectors may provide shade. Optionally, the one or more solar collectors may be conventional solar panels. Optionally, the one or more solar collectors may be prismatic solar collectors.

In some embodiments, the solar collectors may be affixed to project from the sides of the building only at some locations. For example, the owner of a particular office and/or apartment may choose to install solar collectors outside of his office. Optionally, solar collectors may be installed in different locations at different angles and/or different kinds and sizes of collectors may be installed at different locations.

For example, at a higher floor, where for example sun may reach the wall for a large portion of the day at varying angles, solar collectors may be installed at smaller intervals and/or a more expensive solar collectors may be installed and/or larger solar collector may be installed and/or the solar collector may be slanted at the different angle than a solar collector on a lower floor (e.g., where sunlight is available during a smaller portion of the day or at a smaller range if angles due for example to shadows of other buildings). The solar collectors may be positioned to efficiently collect the sunlight that is reflected from the building surface. The solar collectors are optionally of a selected length and/or angle to avoid blocking a desired view through the window (for example, the solar collector may be positioned below the bottom edge of the window and/or selected at a length that is not too obstructive and/or angled to avoid undue obstruction. Optionally, the building may be designed with the shape and/or size and/or direction of the solar collectors may be taken into account for solar collection efficiency and/or aesthetics.

Fig. 21 is a schematic illustration of the invention as it may be positioned on the outside of a building to collect the reflected sunlight from the reflective surface of the building, in accordance with some embodiments. For example, solar collectors 2106 may be affixed to project from the sides of the building at a desired angle. In some embodiments, a building may be fitted with solar collectors 2106 at a lot of locations and/or the solar collectors may be planned and/or installed over a lot of different areas of the building. The solar collectors may be positioned to efficiently collect sunlight 2102 that may be reflected from the building surface 2104. The solar collectors may optionally be of a selected length and/or angle to avoid blocking a desired view through the window, for example, the collector may be positioned below the bottom edge of the window and/or selected at a length that is not too obstructive and/or angled to avoid undue obstruction. The position, shape, size and/or angle may vary due to issues of sum availability, angle of the wall, etc.

Figs, 22A-C are schematic illustrations of the invention showing how the window's and/or reflective siding of the building may be positioned at different angles, in accordance with some embodiments. For example, the solar collectors 2005 may be positioned at different angles. Optionally, the positioning of the building surface 2202 (e.g., windows and/or reflective siding) may be positioned at different angles. Optionally, the positioning of the building surface may be independent of the positioning of the solar collectors. Optionally, the solar collectors may be adjustable, meaning that the solar collectors may be adjusted from the horizontal at the angle preferred by the user, and/or to increase solar collection, and/or to follow the angle of the sun as it travels across the sky. For example, the angle with the maximum efficiency for collecting the sunlight. In some embodiments the positioning of the solar collectors may be controlled remotely. Optionally, the positioning of the solar collectors and/or the building surface may be controlled remotely. Optionally, the positioning of the solar collectors and/or the building surface may be controlled manually. Optionally, the positioning of the solar collectors and/or the building surface may be controlled automatically.

Alternatively, or additionally, this may be an angle which facilitates an improved view from the window. For example: the projecting collectors may be slanted at an angle so that a viewer can look down to see the street. Optionally, the solar collectors may include a prism. Optionally, prismatic solar panels may be oriented to collect solar energy, and/or provide shade, and/or to facilitate passage of light and/or to prevent obstruction of a view.

In some embodiments the windows and/or reflective siding may be tilted for the sake of user preference and/or solar efficiency and/or field of vision. For example: the window may be tilted downward from the vertical to direct more of the reflected sunlight to the solar collectors. Additionally, or alternatively, the window may be tilted in a southerly direction in order to receive more of the sun light.

Fig. 23 illustrates a schematic illustration of a multifaceted surface that may concentrate sun from many angles onto a solar collector, in accordance with some embodiments. Additionally, or alternatively, the surface may be curved and/or the solar collector may be curved and/or multifaceted. For example, the multifaceted building surface 2300 may facilitate orientation of one or more facets to improve focus of reflected sunlight onto a solar collector 2302. Optionally, each facet of the multifaceted building surface may be oriented individually. Optionally, the solar collector may be oriented in conjunction with one or more facets of the multifaceted building surface. Optionally, the solar collector may be oriented separately to one or more facets of the multi faceted building surface. Optionally, the orientation of the solar collectors and/or the building surface may be controlled by a user. Optionally, the orientation of the solar collectors and/or the building surface may be controlled remotely. Optionally, the orientation of the solar collectors and/or the building surface may be controlled manually. Optionally, the orientation of the solar collectors and/or the building surface may be controlled automatically.

Fig. 24 is a flow chart of a method of the operation of the system in accordance with an embodiment of the current invention. For example, in method 2400, building surface (e.g., windows) and/or solar collector projections may be positioned 2402 according to user preference, to collect solar energy, and/or provide shade, and/or to facilitate passage of light and/or to prevent obstruction of a view. The sun may shine on the building surface 2404. Sunlight may be reflected 2406 from the building surface onto the solar collector projections. The solar collector converts 2408 solar energy to electricity and/or heat. Electricity and/or heat from the solar collector may be transmitted 2410 to supply the buildings energy needs, and/or to an electricity grid.

In some embodiments, solar collectors may project outward from a building a distance ranging between about 1 to about 20 cm and/or between about 20 to about 100 cm and/or between about 100 to about 500 cm. Optionally, the transducer may be angled from horizontal with an angle ranging between about 0 to about 5 degrees and/or between about -5 to about 0 degrees and/or between about 5 to about. 30 degrees and/or between about -30 to about -5 degrees.

Fig. 25 is a block diagram of a system in accordance with an embodiment of the current invention. For example, in system 2500, a solar collector 2506 may be connected by electric wiring 2508 to an electrical and/or thermal transducer 2510. Optionally, the solar collector may be attached by connecting hardware 2504 to a reflective surface 2502 of a building.

In some embodiments the reflective surfaces and/or windows of the building may be adjustable. In some embodiments the reflective surfaces and/or windows may move in accordance with the sun. The solar collectors may be fixed in place at the desired angle. In some embodiments the solar collectors may move in accordance with the sun. Optionally, the solar collectors may be connected directly to the existing electrical and/or heating system. Alternatively, or additionally, the solar collectors may be connected to a battery and/or a transformer and/or another means of utilizing the collected energy.

It is expected that during the life of a patent maturing from this application many relevant building technologies, artificial intelligence methodologies, computer user interfaces, image capture devices may be developed and the scope of the terms for design elements, analysis routines, user devices is intended to include all such new technologies a priori.

Unless otherwise defined, all technical and/or scientific terms used herein have the same meaning as commonly understood by one of ordinary/ skill in the art to which the invention pertains. Although methods and materials similar or equivalent to those described herein may be used in the practice or testing of embodiments of the invention, exemplary methods and/or materials are described below. In case of conflict, the patent specification, including definitions, will control. In addition, the materials, methods, and examples are illustrative only and are not intended to be necessarily limiting.

As used herein, the terms "solar” and "sun" are used interchangeably.

As used herein, the terms "solar radiation" and "sunlight" are used interchangeably.

As used herein, the term "prismatic" relates to the effects of an optical prism which a transparent and/or translucent optical element with that are designed to refract light and/or collect light. Optionally a prism may include flat, and/or polished faces. Alternatively, or additionally, a prismatic collector may include one or more curved faces. Additionally, or alternatively, a prismatic collector may include other types of solar energy converters, for example a solar thermal converter.

As used herein, the term "solar panel" relates to is a collection of solar (photovoltaic) transducers, which can be used to generate electricity through photovoltaic effect.

As used herein, the term "solar flux" relates to direct and indirect (e.g., diffuse) irradiance, wherein the direct irradiance is the non-scattered flux, while the diffuse irradiance is the scattered radiative flux from the sun.

As used herein the term “about” refers to ± 10%

The terms "comprises", "comprising", "includes", "including", “having” and their conjugates mean "including but not limited to".

The term “consisting of’ means “including and limited to”.

The term "consisting essentially of" means that the composition, method or structure may include additional ingredients, steps and/or parts, but only if the additional ingredients, steps and/or parts do not materially alter the basic and novel characteristics of the claimed composition, method or structure.

As used herein, the singular form "a", "an" and "the" include plural references unless the context clearly dictates otherwise.

Throughout this application, various embodiments of this invention may be presented in a range format. It. should be understood that the description in range format is merely for convenience and brevity and should not be construed as an inflexible limitation on the scope of the invention. Accordingly, the description of a range should be considered to have specifically disclosed all the possible subranges as well as individual numerical values within that range. For example, description of a range such as from 1 to 6 should be considered to have specifically disclosed subranges such as from I to 3, from 1 to 4, from 1 to 5, from 2 to 4, from 2 to 6, from 3 to 6 etc., as well as individual numbers within that range, for example, 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, and 6. This applies regardless of the breadth of the range.

Whenever a numerical range is indicated herein, it is meant to include any cited numeral (fractional or integral) within the indicated range. The phrases “ranging/ ranges between” a first indicate number and a second indicate number and “ranging/ ranges from” a first indicate number “to” a second indicate number are used herein interchangeably and are meant to include the first and second indicated numbers and all the fractional and integral numerals therebetween.

It is appreciated that certain features of the invention, which are, for clarity, described in the context of separate embodiments, may also be provided in combination in a single embodiment. Conversely, various features of the invention, which are, for brevity, described in the context of a single embodiment, may also be provided separately or in any suitable sub-combination or as suitable in any other described embodiment of the invention. Certain features described in the context of various embodiments are not to be considered essential features of those embodiments, unless the embodiment is inoperative without those elements.

Although the invention has been described in conjunction with specific embodiments thereof, it is evident that many alternatives, modifications and variations will be apparent to those skilled in the art. Accordingly, it is intended to embrace all such alternatives, modifications and variations that fall within the spirit and broad scope of the appended claims.

All publications, patents and patent applications mentioned in this specification are herein incorporated in their entirety by reference into the specification, to the same extent as if each individual publication, patent or patent application w'as specifically and individually indicated to be incorporated herein by reference. In addition, citation or identification of any reference in this application shall not be construed as an admission that such reference is available as prior art to the present invention. To the extent that section headings are used, they should not be construed as necessarily limiting.

Claims

CLAIMS What is claimed is:

1. A building configured for collecting solar energy comprising: a solar transducer, and an outer surface of the building configured to direct solar energy onto the solar transducer.

2. The building of claim 1, wherein said outer surface includes a daylight element configured for splitting light impinging on the daylight element by at least one of reflection and refraction thereby directing a first portion of light, impinging on the outer surface of the daylight element to the solar transducer and a second portion of the light, impinging on the outer surface of the daylight el ement into the buil ding.

3. The building of claim 1, wherein the solar transducer includes at least one of a crystalline Silicone PV collector, a thin-film PV collector and a thermal collector.

4. The building of claim 1, wherein the outer surface includes cladding of the building.

5. The building of claim 1, wherein the solar transducer extends outward from said outer surface of the building.

6. The building of claim 5, wherein an orientation of the solar transducer is adjustable.

7. The building of claim 2, wherein the daylight element includes a semi reflective surface which reflects light to the solar transducer.

8. The building of claim 7, wherein the semi reflective surface includes a semi reflective window.

9. The building of claim 2, wherein the outer surface includes a prism and the solar transducer is l ocated at least one surface of the pri sm.

10. The building of claim 9, wherein the solar transducer is located on an internal surface of the prism.

11. The building of claim 9, wherein at least one inner surface of the prism is transparent and facilitates viewing out the building.

12. The building of claim 9, wherein said prism is a load bearing element.

13. The building of claim 9, wherein the prism is not-a load bearing element.

14. The building of claim 1 , wherein a first portion of the outer surface of the building configured to direct solar energy to said solar transducer is separated from a second portion of the outer surface configured to direct solar energy to a second solar transducer by a spacer.

15. The building of claim 2, wherein said splitting includes differentiated between di fferent wavel engths of light.

16. The building of claim 15, wherein light in a first wavelength useful for plant growth is directed to a plant within the building and a second wavelength of light less useful for plant growth than said first wavelength is directed to said solar transducer.

17. A method for using a building as a solar collector system, the method comprising: receiving solar energy on an outer surface of a building; directing the solar energy onto a solar transducer by at least one of a reflection from refracti ve through said outer surface of the building, and converting solar radiation to a useful transportable form using said solar transducer.

18. The method of claim 17, further comprising splitting light impinging on the outer surface by at least one of reflection and refraction and directing a first portion of light impinging on the outer surface to the solar transducer and a second portion of the light impinging on the outer surface to a daylight element in the building.

19. The method of claim 17, wherein said directing is to the solar transducer extending outward from said outer surface of the building.

20. The method of claim 17, further comprising adjusting an orientation of the solar transducer.

21. The method of claim 18, further comprising reflecting light to the solar transducer from a semi reflective surface on said outer surface.

22. The method of ctaim 21, further including viewing out from said building through said semi reflective surface.

23. The method of claim 18, wherein the outer surface includes a prism and the method further comprising refracting light through the prism to the solar transducer located at least one surface of the prism.

24. The method of claim 23, wherein at least one inner surface of the prism is transparent the method further comprising viewing out the building through said at least one inner surface.

25. The method of claim 23, further comprising supporting a load on said prism.

26. The method of claim 18, wherein said splitting includes differentiated between different wavelengths of light.

27. The method of claim 26, further comprising: directing light in a first wavelength useful for plant growth to a plant within the building and directing a second wavelength of light less useful for plant growth than said first, wavelength is to said solar transducer.

28. The method of claim 17, further comprising positioning the solar transducer or the outer surface according to user preference, to improve solar energy collection, to provide shade, to facilitate passage of light, to prevent obstruction of a view, or any combi nati on thereof

29. The method of claim 17, further comprising: passing a ray of solar radiation through a refractive surface of a prismatic solar collector and trapping the ray within the prism.

30. The method of claim 29, further comprising splitting the ray and bouncing it between various faces of the prism onto solar transducers to efficiently provide electricity and/or heat.

31. A system for collecting solar energy comprising: a solar transducer, and an outer surface of a building configured to direct solar energy onto the solar transducer.

32. The system of claim 31, wherein said outer surface includes a daylight element configured for splitting light impinging on the daylight element by at least one of reflection and refraction thereby directing a first portion of light impinging on the outer surface of the daylight element to the solar transducer and a second portion of the light impinging on the outer surface of the daylight element into the building.

33. The system of claim 31, wherein the solar transducer includes at least one of a crystalline Silicone PV collector, a thin-film PV collector and a thermal collector.