Heat Transfer in Spherical Micro Solar Cell Modules

Authors

  • A.P. Negoiaş Faculty of Electrical Engineering University POLITEHNICA of Bucharest Author
  • A.M. Morega Faculty of Electrical Engineering University POLITEHNICA of Bucharest;Institute of Statistical Mathematics and Applied Mathematics “Gh. Mihoc – C. Iacob”, Romanian Academy Author
  • M. Morega Faculty of Electrical Engineering University POLITEHNICA of Bucharest Author

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.24084/repqj07.402

Keywords:

Photovoltaic cells, spherical cells, heat transfer, numerical simulation, finite element

Abstract

Recently, spherical solar cells (SPVC) have drawn attention due to their low costs, flexibility, and efficiency: spherical reception surface can intercept sunlight in all directions thus increasing its power generation capacity. This paper reports a numerical analysis of steady state heat transfer from the SPVC to the ambient, unveiling the underlying paths and mechanisms. Within the limits of acceptable simplifying assumptions we define a sequence of 3D FEM models aimed at investigating the convective heat transfer processes: natural convection cooling and forced convection of a SPVC panel. The results may be used to optimizing the thermal design of SPVC modules.

Published

2024-01-24

Issue

Vol. 7 No. 1 (2009)

Section

Articles