An improved model for TPV performance predictions and optimization
- Space Power Institute (United States)
- Department of Aerospace Engineering, Auburn University, Alabama 36849 (United States)
Previously a model has been presented for calculating the performance of a TPV system. This model has been revised into a general purpose algorithm, improved in fidelity, and is presented here. The basic model is an energy based formulation and evaluates both the radiant and heat source elements of a combustion based system. Improvements in the radiant calculations include the use of ray tracking formulations and view factors for evaluating various flat plate and cylindrical configurations. Calculation of photocell temperature and performance parameters as a function of position and incident power have also been incorporated. Heat source calculations have been fully integrated into the code by the incorporation of a modified version of the NASA Complex Chemical Equilibrium Compositions and Applications (CEA) code. Additionally, coding has been incorporated to allow optimization of various system parameters and configurations. Several examples cases are presented and compared, and an optimum flat plate emitter/filter/photovoltaic configuration is also described. {copyright} {ital 1997 American Institute of Physics.}
- Sponsoring Organization:
- USDOE
- OSTI ID:
- 577818
- Report Number(s):
- CONF-9705119-; ISSN 0094-243X; TRN: 9723M0035
- Journal Information:
- AIP Conference Proceedings, Vol. 401, Issue 1; Conference: 3. NREL conference on thermophotovoltaic (TPV) generation of electricity, Colorado Springs, CO (United States), 18-21 May 1997; Other Information: PBD: Mar 1997
- Country of Publication:
- United States
- Language:
- English
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