Invention Description

Researchers at Arizona State University have developed a skylight design that integrates low-cost refractive glass elements to steer light towards vertically oriented photovoltaics. The vertical orientation avoids blocking of sunlight into the skylight while the suspended or mounted glass optics direct radiation to the cells for electricity generation. These optics simultaneously allow diffuse radiation to pass through for improved daylighting with reduced heat gain and reduced glare. 

 

Potential Applications

•       Energy-efficient lighting modules

•       Skylights

 

Benefits and Advantages

•       Can be retrofitted in existing skylights

•       Decreases energy costs by providing natural light and generating electricity

•       Reduces heat gain

•       Light-steering optics channel direct sunlight toward solar cells

•       Optics pass diffuse sunlight into living spaces for more a pleasant, reduced-glare environment

 

Faculty Profile of Professor Christiana Honsberg