Product

Solar Energy Harvesting Systems

Prototype Systems

BIST Prefabricated Timber Module

By Riccardo Pinotti, Stefano Avesani and Roberto Lollini, Eurac Research, Italy

Product Description

Brief Concept Description

Brief concept description This prototype is a prefabricated timber-based multifunctional facade element for retrofit purposes that was developed within the European 4RinEU project. The facade module can integrate active solar systems, such as a solar-thermal or PV panel, but also decentralized ventilation. The main structure of the prefabricated panels is composed of a timber frame, an insulation layer and an external cladding. Figure 31 shows a prefabricated timber module integrating a solar thermal system and a small decentralized ventilation unit. Such multifunctional façade elements can be prefabricated with the benefits of lower manufacturing costs, higher construction quality, a limited duration of the renovation process and less inconvenience for the occupants. At the same time, additional services such as RES generation or ventilation are integrated in the façade system solution.


Figure 31. Prototype of a prefabricated timber module integrating a solar thermal collector and decentralized ventilation – produced by Gumpp&Maier GmbH.

Architectural and Technological Integration into the Envelope

In order to reach co-planarity between solar panels and external cladding, a thin solar collector is integrated into the prefabricated module. A small air cavity behind the panel and an insulation layer limit the thermal losses from the back of the solar collector. On the other hand, this kind of integration could bring along augmented vapor transfer from the inner to the outer layers of the envelope, during periods when sun is not available. This problem needs to be carefully considered and solved during the façade design.


Figure 31. Prototype of a prefabricated timber module integrating a solar thermal collector and decentralized ventilation – produced by Gumpp&Maier GmbH.

Integration into the Building: System and Comfort

The multifunctional prefabricated façade elements can be shipped to the building site in modules that can be up to 12 meters long and can cover the height of one floor. Transportation regulation is the main limit for the dimensions of such prefabricated panels. These modules are then anchored to the bearing structure of the existing building via timber beams and only finishing works are performed on-site. The type of solar harvesting system to be integrated in the prefabricated element can be easily adapted depending on the building location, geometry and loads. The façade structure can also integrate the ducts and wires needed to connect solar thermal or PV panels to energy storage and distribution system.

SWOT Analysis

Strengths

  • RES energy is generated exploiting the façade
  • The integration of the solar active component in the façade is easy thanks to modularity principles
  • The connection between solar active component and management/distribution systems is integrated in the prefabricated structure
  • The prefabricated structure can be optimized in shape and materials for hosting solar thermal and PV panels
  • Integrating solar collectors in prefabricated modules allows to save time compared to having separated interventions at different stages of the renovation process

Weaknesses

  • Maintenance must be performed from the outside and some cladding must be eventually removed
  • In order to maintain the planarity between solar thermal/PV panels and cladding, the integrated components must be thin
  • Solar collectors can be damaged during the installation process
  • The design process required to assure good performance and a smooth installation is more complex than for traditional solutions

 
Opportunity

  • Retrofitting exiting buildings is a huge opportunity for improving energy efficiency and standardized products might find a place in the renovation building practice
  • Large façade areas are currently unused and can be exploited for installing this solution

 
Threats

  • The integration of solar thermal/PV panels in vertical façades may not be optimal for all the geographic location and orientations
  • The construction of new buildings may shade the solar collectors, significantly reducing their performances

Further Reading

4RinEU project website: 4RinEU

Acknowledgment

4RinEU project has received funding from the European Union's Horizon 2020 research and innovation programme under grant agreement No723829.