Design of solar systems for buildings and use of BIM tools: Overview of relevant geometric aspects

Abstract

The paper systematizes geometric aspects relevant for understanding design of solar systems. The systematization is based on a review of literature dedicated to various kinds of engineers, including architects, involved in a multidisciplinary process of conceptualizing, designing and realization of PV systems. The understanding of the presented geometric aspects, known as solar geometry, is important not only in terms of finding optimal orientation and most effective tilt of solar modules, but also in terms of adequate geometric modelling of façade elements of a complex shape (as specific photovoltaic modules) in order to be optimally exposed to the sun all over the year. After providing detailed explanations of the main elements of solar geometry using the tools of spherical trigonometry, the paper discusses the integration of the presented geometric concepts in the BIM environments, and refers the example of Autodesk Revit software through its sun study tool. Analysed are functionalities of all interactive components of the 3D solar path representation. A need for more explicit determination of an incidence angle of the sun rays on a tilted surface is stressed. In the conclusion highlighted is the essential knowledge on solar geometry that needs to be acquired during architectural education, so that architects participating in the BIM working environments could be prepared for efficient conceptualization of integrated solar systems.

Proposta de uma ferramenta computacional para traçar cartas solares e dimensionar dispositivos para sombreamento

“…Para uniformizar a comunicação, adotou-se parte da nomenclatura e das abreviaturas utilizadas por (Szokolay, 2007), com adições. Essa nomenclatura também é utilizada e recomendada por (Devetaković;Dordević;Dukanović;Krstić Furundžić et al, 2019).…”

Trends in the integration of photovoltaic facilities into the built environment

“…From the viewpoint of architectural design, the existence of a variety of simulation tools is not sufficient itself. It requires a deeper understanding of specific issues, such as the ones of solar geometry (Devetakovi c et al, 2018(Devetakovi c et al, , 2019, solar radiance, PV module efficiency and PV reliability, as well as being informed on most recent and most successful application of the PV technology, especially in the local contexts. The role of architects is not only to apply the BIPV solutions available on the market but also to take a leading role in developing new, more functional and aesthetically advanced solutions.…”