Simulation has provided valuable quantification of the fundamental behavior of thermophotovoltaic cell networks. The results of simulation studies have supported the design and fabrication of small-scale demonstration networks and are expected to guide assembly of large-scale systems. This paper describes the methodology and software simulator developed to address issues in thermophotovoltaic (TPV) networking, including failure analysis, electrical network design, and nonuniform illumination. Results from simulation studies are given illustrating their application to the design and fabrication of small-scale TPV arrays.

Abstract. TPV technology has advanced rapidly in the last five years, with diode conversion efficiency approaching >30%, and filter efficiency of ~80%. These achievements have enabled repeatable testing of 20% efficient small systems, demonstrating the potential of TPV energy conversion. Near term technology gains support a 25% efficient technology demonstration in the two year timeframe. However, testing of full size systems, which includes efficiency degradation mechanisms, such as: nonuniform diode illumination, diode and filter variability, temperature non-uniformities, conduction/convection losses, and lifetime reliability processes needs to be performed. A preliminary analysis of these differential effects has been completed, and indicates a near term integrated system efficiency of ~15% is possible using current technology, with long term growth to 18-20%. This report addresses the system performance issues.

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