Giorgia Burzachechi Japanese researchers have developed new protocols for testing vehicle-integrated photovoltaic (VIPV) panels, addressing the challenges of dynamic curvature and shading. They created advanced models to simulate their behavior and predict energy savings.
@soalrenergy
Researchers from Japan’s Miyazaki University have just published a landmark study, “Testing and Rating of Vehicle-Integrated Photovoltaics: Scientific Background“. The research focuses on the protocols and challenges of integrating photovoltaic panels directly into vehicles.
In turn, the team has identified new ways to test and standardize vehicle-integrated photovoltaics, among the main issues being curved surfaces, dynamic shading, and inhomogeneous solar irradiation. Their work introduces an advanced mathematical model based on differential geometry and shading matrices, beating traditional approaches’ limitations.
Overcoming idealized assumptions
The study, published in the journal Solar Energy Materials and Solar Cells, critiques existing calculation techniques for assuming ideal conditions such as no shadows, flat terrains and consistent solar radiation. These assumptions are not reflective of the conditions vehicles actually face, where shadows, movement and curved surfaces play a significant role in performance.
Advanced simulation and testing protocols
Solar simulators were evaluated at multiple locations using identical procedures to obtain comparable results. In one of several firsts, the researchers presented new computational methodologies that could capture subtleties in solar irradiation effects, such as shading by parts of the vehicle, like hood, doors, and rear windshields. These techniques are more accurate in their prediction of solar irradiation effects.
Sustainable tools for the future
In the near future, the team is working on a tool to estimate fuel savings for trucks and buses fitted with VIPV panels. Presently, studies involving 130 trucks are in the process of validating these models, opening up new avenues toward greener transport solutions.
