Solar Panels Shouldn't Lie Flat
There has not been a lot of innovation over the years when it comes to solar power design. Although there have been some changes made to the solar panel's basic shape and size, what we see is pretty much what we get when it comes to this product. We usually get a panel that lies flat on a rooftop in order to absorb and utilize sunlight. Why change what works? Well, because something else might work better. That's the idea behind modern new approaches to solar power design, which include 3-D designs inspired by nature.
Take a look at how things grow in nature when they are using sunlight. Look at plants and trees. They grow upwards towards the sun. Even grass doesn't lie flat; the blades shoot up into the sky as much as they can. So why don't we take a cue from that and start thinking about three-dimensional shapes for solar panels? That's exactly what some researchers are doing.
Some of the benefits of 3D solar panels compared to flat solar panels may include:
- More light can be absorbed in small areas. The shape of the panels would allow them to reflect light off of the ground and off of each other. This means that they would actually be able to absorb more light. This is especially true in cramped areas where light may get lost to shadows if you were only using flat solar panels.
- Reduced cost. It is possible that these solar panels would be more cost-efficient than the ones used today. This is due to the fact that they can generate more power using the same amount of light.
- Power can be generated evenly throughout the day. 3D panels would be less affected by the sun's movements throughout the day.
- Easier shipping. A design is envisioned that would allow these solar panels to lie flat for shipping and then to be opened up in a style similar to a work of origami before installation. This would be at least as easy to ship, if not more so, than today's solar panels.
- More aesthetically pleasing. If you're sick of seeing traditional solar panels on rooftops then this could appeal to your eye.
Most likely what we'll discover over time is that the most efficient and effective solar power solution is a combination of 2D and 3D panels. At least more options are beginning to open up!
Source: http://www.livescience.com/technology/solar-panel-origami-power-100225.html
Publish Date: 2010-03-09 12:49:25
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