IL301130A - A photovoltaic curtain wall module and a curtain wall consisting of it - Google Patents

Description

0287659566- PHOTOVOLTAIC CURTAIN WALL MODULE AND CURTAIN WALL FORMED FROM SAME TECHNOLOGICAL FIELD The subject matter of the present specification relates to the field of building integrated photovoltaics (BIPV). In particular, the present invention relates to a photovoltaic (PV) curtain wall module, a curtain wall formed from a plurality of such modules, and a multistorey building fitted with such a curtain wall. BACKGROUND To increase the energy efficiency and output of a building, such as a multistorey building fitted with a curtain wall (e.g., a unitised curtain wall), the curtain wall may be formed from alternating rows of vision glass and spandrel glass wherein the PV layer is only integrated into the spandrel glass such that the vision glass remains substantially transparent. GENERAL DESCRIPTIONAccording to a first aspect of the present invention, there is provided a photovoltaic (PV) curtain wall module for installation with like modules in a predetermined vertical orientation to form a curtain wall of a multistorey building comprising at least one storey defined by a transparent window area and one of two floor structures between which the transparent window area is confined, the module having a height corresponding to that of said at least one storey and comprising: an outer transparent panel; an inner transparent panel parallel to said outer transparent panel; an interior defined between the inner and outer panels and comprising a PV interior section having a height corresponding to that of one of said floor structures, and a transparent interior section having a height corresponding to that of said transparent window area, said PV interior section accommodating a PV layer for converting into electricity solar energy passing through the outer glass panel, the entire interior between the panels being filled with a 0287659566- transparent solidified adhesive for holding the panels in parallel orientation and the PV layer in place, wherein when the module is installed, the transparent interior section spans the transparent window area and the PV interior section spans one of said floor structures. In this way, not only does the present module enable the capture and conversion of incident solar energy into electricity, the arrangement and structure of the module relative to the building help to visually obscure the PV layer therein. In embodiments of the present module, an inner surface of the outer panel adjacent to the PV layer comprises a print overlying and thus at least partially visually obscuring the PV layer. For example, the print may comprise a color that corresponds to that of the floor structures of the building, such as white or grey. In this way, the presence of the PV layer within the module is less visually discernible because it is obscured by a print that blends in with the color of the floor structure of the building. It is envisaged that an inner surface of the inner panel adjacent to the PV layer may comprise a print underlying the PV layer. For example, the print of the inner panel may comprise a dark color that corresponds to that of the PV layer. In this way, the PV layer visually blends into the dark-colored print therebehind and becomes less visually discernible through the transparent panels. Preferably, a thickness of the solidified adhesive between the panels at the transparent interior section is at least as thick as the PV layer. It is also envisaged that the height of the PV interior section is between 25% to 45% of the height of the module. For example, the height of the PV interior section may be approximately 40% of the height of the module. In at least some embodiments of the present module, the PV interior section is disposed toward an upper or lower end of the module. In preferred embodiments of the present module, the inner panel comprises a low emissivity coating. The low emissivity coating may help reduce the amount of UV and infrared 0287659566- light that can pass through the module into the building without significantly reducing the amount of visible light that is transmitted. It is envisaged that the inner panel is configured to receive cabling and a junction box. Such components may be connectible to the PV layer and facilitate the drawing of electricity therefrom. In certain embodiments, the module may also comprise a third panel arranged parallel to and behind the inner panel. In such embodiments, the low emissivity coating may be provided on an outer surface of the inner panel; additionally, it may be that it is the third panel that is configured to receive cabling and a junction box. According to a second aspect of the present invention, there is provided a photovoltaic (PV) curtain wall module for installation with like modules in a predetermined orientation to form a curtain wall of a multistorey building comprising at least one storey defined by a transparent window area and one of two floor structures between which the transparent window area is confined, the module having a height corresponding to that of said at least one storey and comprising: an outer transparent panel; an inner transparent panel having an outer surface and an inner surface opposing an inner surface of the outer transparent panel, the outer surface of the inner transparent panel being provided with a low emissivity coating; an interior defined between the respective inner surfaces of the inner and outer panels and comprising a PV interior section having a height corresponding to that of one of said floor structures, and a transparent interior section having a height corresponding to that of said transparent window area, said PV interior section accommodating a PV layer for converting into electricity solar energy passing through the outer glass panel; and a third transparent panel arranged behind the inner panel such that the inner panel is arranged between the outer panel and the third panel, said third transparent panel being spaced apart from said inner panel; 0287659566- wherein when the module is installed, the transparent interior section spans the transparent window area and the PV interior section spans one of said floor structures. By having the low emissivity coating on the outer surface of the inner panel, rather than on the third panel, the module’s ability to reduce the amount of UV and infrared passing therethrough the module can be significantly improved. As previously envisaged, the inner surface of the outer panel adjacent to the PV layer may comprise a print overlying and thus at least partially visually obscuring the PV layer. In a preferred embodiment, the inner surface of the inner panel adjacent to the PV layer may also comprise a print underlying the PV layer. The or each print can thus help to visually obscure the PV layer and thus make it less visually discernible to viewers. In certain embodiments of the presently disclosed module, the inner and third panels comprise openings configured to enable passage therethrough of cabling associated with a junction box. According to a third aspect of the present invention, there is provided a method of manufacturing a module according to a second aspect of the present invention, comprising: (iv) providing the inner and outer transparent panels; (ii) providing the outer surface of the inner transparent panel with a low emissivity coating; (iii) sandwiching the PV layer between the inner and outer panels at the PV interior section; and (iv) providing and securing the third panel behind the inner panel in a spaced apart manner. It is envisaged that each step of the method is executed at one location or facility, and within the span of a short time period such that the low emissivity coating provided on the inner panel is not exposed to the environment for extended periods of time prior to the manufacture of the disclosed module, thereby limiting any degradation of the coating. 0287659566- It is envisaged that in providing the outer panel, the method also comprises providing the inner surface of the outer panel that is to be adjacent to the PV layer with a print that is to overlie and thus at least partially visually obscure the PV layer. Similarly, in providing the inner panel, the method may also comprise providing the inner surface of the inner panel that is to be adjacent to the PV layer with a print that is to underlie the PV layer. Additionally, the method may also include forming one or more openings in the inner and third panels for receipt of cabling associated with a junction box. This is possible only when the manufacture of the module occurs at a single location or facility, and thus forming openings and the like in the panel carrying the low emissivity coating is possible since the coating is shortly thereafter encased and thus prevented from extended periods of exposure to the environment. According to a fourth aspect of the present invention, there is provided a photovoltaic (PV) curtain wall module manufactured in accordance with a method according to a third aspect of the present invention. According to a fifth aspect of the present invention, there is provided a multistorey building comprising at least one storey defined by a transparent window area and one of two floor structures between which the transparent window area is confined, the building further comprising a curtain wall formed from modules according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein at least one row of modules of the curtain wall spans said at least one storey such that: the transparent interior section of each module in said at least one row spans the transparent window area of said at least one storey; and the PV interior section of each module in said at least one row spans the floor structure of said at least one storey. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGSIn order to better understand the subject matter that is disclosed herein and to exemplify how it may be carried out in practice, embodiments will now be described, by way of non-limiting example only, with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which: Fig. 1A is a close-up front view of a side of a curtain wall of a multistorey building; 0287659566- Fig. 1B is a corresponding side view of the curtain wall and building of Fig. 1A; Fig. 2is a schematic illustration of a partially exploded side view of a PV curtain wall module according to an example of the presently disclosed subject matter; Fig. 3is a schematic illustration of a partially exploded side view of a PV curtain wall module according to another example of the presently disclosed subject matter; Fig. 4A is a schematic illustration of a front view of the module of Fig. 3; Fig. 4Bis a schematic illustration of a rear view of the module of Fig. 3; Fig. 5is a schematic illustration of a partially exploded PV curtain wall module; Fig. 6is a schematic illustration of a partially exploded side view of a PV curtain wall module according to another example of the presently disclosed subject matter; Fig. 7is a schematic illustration of a partially exploded front perspective view of a module with an integrated PV layer; and Fig. 8is a flowchart summarising a method of manufacturing the present PV curtain wall module according to examples of the presently disclosed subject matter. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF EMBODIMENTS Figs. 1A and 1B illustrate front and side views, respectively, of a multistorey building fitted with an external curtain wall 4. The curtain wall 4 comprises vision glass 6 and spandrel glass 8. Spandrel glass 8 is often colored, is at least partially if not substantially opaque, and usually aligned with and overlies floor structures 10 of the building 2. In this way, the spandrel glass 8 acts to visually obscure a building’s floor structures 10, electrical services etc. to give the exterior of the building 2 a clean and aesthetically pleasing appearance. Meanwhile, the vision glass 6 of the curtain wall 4 is generally transparent, at least when viewed from an interior of the building 2, and is aligned with and overlies transparent window areas 12 of the building 2. In this way, occupants within the building 2 can see outside the building 2 through the vision glass 6. Because of the different visual properties of vision glass 6 and spandrel glass 8, and the different locations of a multistorey building 2 in respect of which they are placed, they are typically fabricated and installed separately from one another, adding to the overall complexity, labour and thus cost associated with transporting and erecting a curtain wall comprising both vision 6 and spandrel glass 8. 0287659566- The present subject matter relates to a PV curtain wall module that can fulfil the roles of both the vision glass 6 and spandrel glass 8. However, since PV wafers are generally dark and/or opaque, the resulting PV glass may not be desirable if it compromises the aesthetics of a building or the ability for building occupants to see through vision glass. As such, while curtain walls fitted with PV glass modules can offer a source of renewal energy, PV glass modules may not be utilised, or may be underutilised, to preserve the building’s aesthetics and the transparency of the vision glass. With reference to Figs. 2 to 4, the present subject matter relates to a glass module having a transparent section 16 and a PV section 18 integrated with a PV layer 20. When installed, the module 14 is arranged such that the transparent section 16 spans a transparent window area 12 of the building 2, while the PV section 18 is aligned with and spans a floor structure 10 of the building 2. Since the PV section 18 does not span the transparent window area 12 of the building, the PV section 18 does not impede the ability of building occupants to see through the transparent section of the module 14. Moreover, since the PV layer 20 within the PV section 18 is naturally dark and/or opaque, the PV section 18 naturally helps to visually obscure the floor structure 10 over which it lies. In this way, the transparent section 16 of the present module 14 functions like vision glass 6, allowing building occupants to see therethrough, while the PV section 18 of the present module 14 functions like spandrel glass, visually obscuring floor structures 10 of the building. Advantageously, since the present module 14 is configured to fulfil the roles of both vision glass 6 and spandrel glass 8, the module 14 eliminates the need for the separate fabrication and installation of vision glass 6 and spandrel glass 8 and allows for resulting curtain walls that are more cost, labour and time effective to fabricate, transport and install. It will be understood that a transparent window area 12 of a multistorey building refers to a window area of the building 2 where vision glass 6 is typically installed. It will also be understood that a transparent window area 16 is usually confined between two floor structures 10, one above and one below the transparent window area 12, as shown in Fig. 1B 0287659566- (though of course certain transparent window areas, such as the ground and/or top floors of a multistorey building, may only be bounded by one such floor structure). In the context of a multistorey building 2, the term ‘storey’ is used herein to refer to the region defined by a transparent window area 12 and one of the two floor structures 10 between which it is bound. For example, in Fig. 1B, the height of one storey 22 of the building 2 is defined by the height of a transparent window area 12 and the height of, for example, the floor structure 10 therebeneath. The present specification encompasses within its scope PV curtain wall modules 14 that are configured to span at least one storey 22 of a multistorey building 2. Fig. 2 illustrates a partially exploded side view of a PV curtain wall module according to an example of the presently disclosed subject matter. The module 14 comprises an outer transparent glass panel 24 and an inner transparent glass panel 26. Preferably, the dimensions of the panels 24, 26 are substantially similar, if not identical, and the panels 24, are parallel to one another. The outer panel 24 defines the exterior of the curtain wall 4 and comprises an external surface 28 through which solar energy from outside the building 2 can pass, and an inner surface 30 that faces the corresponding inner surface 32 of the inner panel 26. The inner panel 26 comprises an internal surface 34 that is arranged to face the interior of the building 2. This internal surface 34 may also be referred to as an outer surface 34 of the inner panel 26. An interior 36 is defined between the panels 24, 26, and in particular, between the respective inner surfaces 30, 32 thereof. It is the interior 36 that is provided with a PV layer for converting solar energy into electricity. In particular, the interior 36 of the module comprises two sections: a transparent interior section 38 through which building occupants can see outside the building 2, and a PV interior section 40 which is generally defined as the section that accommodates the PV layer 20. The PV layer 20 is planar and has a generally rectangular footprint. 0287659566- The interior 36 between the panels 24, 26 is filled with a substantially transparent and solidified adhesive 33 which acts not only to hold the panels 24, 26 together in a parallel orientation relative to one another but also to hold the PV layer 20 in place relative to the panels 24, 26 between which the PV layer 20 is sandwiched. Importantly, the solidified adhesive 33 acts as a filler between the panels 24, 26 to ensure their relative parallel orientation. If the adhesive 33 is only applied in the interior 36 at the PV section 18 to hold the PV layer in position, (that is, on inner surfaces 30b, 30b of the outer panel 24 and inner panel 26 respectively which are adjacent to the PV layer 20), but not applied in the interior 36 at the transparent section 16 (that is, on inner surfaces 30a, 32a of the outer panel 24 and inner panel 26 respectively), then the panels 24, 26 may be more vulnerable to bending and even breaking, particularly if they are made from a brittle material which is commonly used for such panels, such as glass. As such, it is important that the solidified adhesive 33 is applied so as to fill the interior 33 and maintain the panels 24, 26 in a parallel orientation relative to one another. In this way, in addition to holding the PV layer in place in between the surfaces 30b and 32b, the adhesive 33 helps fill the gap between the surfaces 30a and 32a such that the distance therebetween is substantially similar, if not identical, to that between the surfaces 30b and 32b, thereby maintaining the panels 24, 26 parallel relative to one another and reducing the vulnerability of the module 14 to bending and/or breaking. During the application and setting of the adhesive 33 therebetween, the adhesive should be distributed in the interior 36 between the respective inner surfaces 30, 32 of the panels 24, 26 such that the distance therebetween is substantially constant throughout the entire module 14, thereby achieving a module 14 with inner and outer panels 24, 26 that are parallel to one another. As such, the thickness of the adhesive 33 between the panels 24, 26 adjacent to the transparent interior section 38 is greater than the combined thickness of the adhesive 33 adjacent to the PV interior section 40. In particular, the thickness of the solidified adhesive at the transparent interior section 38 of the module 14 would be thicker than the combined thickness of the solidified adhesive at the PV interior section 40 by an amount that would approximate or be substantially identical to the thickness of the PV layer 20. 0287659566- It is also important that the panels 24, 26 are parallel to one another to ensure that light passing therethrough is not undesirably or inconsistently distorted or refracted, which could compromise the visual clarity of the transparent section 16 and/or the light that is able to reach the PV layer 20. Moreover, an advantage of curtain walls, particularly unitized curtain walls, is that a significant proportion of their components can be fabricated off-site under controlled factory conditions. The modules 14 of a particular curtain wall should thus be virtually identical to one another and be readily interchangeable with one another and installable within a frame of the curtain wall. Controlling the quantity and distribution of the adhesive between the panels 24, 26 thus helps to ensure that the panels 24, 26 are arranged parallel to one another and can thus be appropriately secured within the curtain wall frame. Additionally, since the panels 24, may be formed from a relatively fragile and/or brittle glass material that could crack or break when urged against a hard surface, the adhesive 33, which is applied to the panels 24, in a viscous form, also acts to protect the panels 24, 26 during fabrication when the inner surfaces 30, 32 thereof are urged toward one another to form the module 14. In Fig. 2, the height of the module corresponds to the height of one storey 22 of the building 2 in respect of which the module 14 is to be installed. In particular, the height of the transparent interior section 36 would correspond to the height of the transparent window area of the building 2, and the PV interior section 40 would correspond to the height of a floor structure 10 of the building 2. When installed, the transparent interior section 38 would span the transparent window area 12, and the PV interior section 40 would span a corresponding floor structure 10. In Fig. 2, the height of the PV interior section 40 is approximately 37.5% of the height of the module 14, though, of course, other proportions are within the scope of the present specification. For example, the height of the PV interior section 40 may range from approximately 25% to approximately 45% of the total height of the module 14. While Fig. shows the PV interior section 40 and thus PV layer 20 arranged toward the top end of the module 14, the PV layer 20 may of course be arranged toward a lower end instead, depending on how the module 14 and thus curtain wall 4 is to be installed. 0287659566- As seen in Fig. 3, the inner surface 30b of the outer panel 24 adjacent to the PV layer (i.e., the inner surface 30b that bounds the PV interior section 40) comprises a print 42. For example, the print may comprise a ceramic print 42. This type of print can utilise small and spaced apart dots. The spacing between the dots and their sizing can be varied to alter the perceived opacity of the outer panel 24. For example, in Fig. 3, the outer panel 24 is provided with a print 42 comprising white dots having a size of about 15 μm, the dots being spaced apart from one another so as to cover approximately 60% of the area of the inner surface 30b of the outer panel 24 which bounds the PV interior section 40. In this way, and with reference to Fig. 4A, the outer panel 24 adjacent to the PV interior section 40 may appear primarily white, which white print helps to visually obscure the dark PV layer 20 therebeneath. Since the dots are spaced apart, solar energy is still able to penetrate through the outer panel 24 via the spacing between the dots and reach the PV layer 20 therebehind. In this way, the print 42 at least partially visually conceals or obscures the PV layer 20 from external viewers. Of course, while Figs. 3 and 4A show a white print 42, other colors may be utilised to suit the appearance of the building 2. The inner surface 32b of the inner panel 26 adjacent the PV layer 20 (i.e., the inner surface 32b that bounds the PV interior section 40) also comprises a print 44. For example, the print may comprise a ceramic print 44. Preferably, the print 44 is a relatively dark color which corresponds to the color of the PV layer 20. In Figs. 3 and 4B, the print 44 on the inner panel is black and thus provides a dark background behind the PV layer 20 into which the dark PV layer 20 can visually blend. In this way, both the print 42 on the outer panel 24 and the print 44 on the inner panel 26 helps to visually conceal the presence of the PV layer 20 in the module 14. In the context of windows it is known to provide a low emissivity coating. The "low E coating" functions to reduce the amount of ultraviolet and infrared light that can pass through the window into the interior of a building, without substantially compromising the amount of visible light that is able to enter. In essence, the low E coating helps to allow light into the building while reducing the amount of heat transfer between the interior and exterior of the 0287659566- building. In window configurations comprising an outer panel and an inner panel, it is preferable to apply the low E coating on an inner surface of the or each panel (such as the inner surface of the inner panel), which inner surface is sealed from the environment so that the low E coating is not exposed to and thus tarnished by moisture and oxygen. With regard to commercially available glass panels with low E coatings already applied, it is not feasible nor desirable to modify such panels to incorporate a PV layer between the glass panels, as this would involve exposing the low E coating to the environment. Forming openings in the glass (e.g., for accommodating a junction box and associated cabling) is also undesirable for the same reason. As such, and with reference to the arrangement shown in Fig. 5, to the extent that a low E coating is to be incorporated in respect of a PV curtain wall module 14’, the low E coating is provided on a separate glass panel 148 that is arranged behind the glass panels 124, 126 which house the PV layer 120. In particular, an air gap is provided between the third panel 148 and the inner panel 126, and the low E coating is applied on inner surface 74 of the third panel 148 The air gap contains confined air which is not in a sufficient amount to compromise the integrity of the low E coating. However, a disadvantage of applying the low E coating on surface 74 is that a substantial proportion of the sun’s solar energy can penetrate through the outer and inner panels 124, 126 and can thus heat the air in between the glass panels, which heating could be significantly reduced if it were possible to apply the low E coating on an inner surface of either of the outer or inner panels 124, 126. Another known limitation in the application of low E coatings is that the machine used for applying the low E coating can typically only receive one panel for coating at a time. Heretofore, to the extent that a PV layer had been adheringly sandwiched between an outer panel and an inner panel, a low E coating could not be applied to the resulting module because the module would be too thick for the machinery conventionally used to apply the low E coating. Moreover, existing facilities capable of applying low E coatings are not also capable of forming modules according to embodiments of the present disclosure. As such, the module 14’ represents a compromise that involves applying the low E coating to an inner surface 74 of the third panel 148. However, as previously discussed, applying the low E coating on surface 0287659566- 74 is not ideal because more sunlight is permitted to pass through the panels and heat up the air therebetween, which results in increased heating of the building. The benefits provided by a low E coating would be better realised if it could be applied to the internal surface of the inner panel. With reference to Fig. 6, the present specification discloses a module 114 wherein low E coating 134’ is applied on the internal face 134 of the inner panel 126, which inner panel 1is enclosed between the outer panel 124 and a rearmost panel 148. The rearmost 148 encloses the low E coating from being exposed to the environment. In this way, solar energy can pass through the outer panel 124 and reach the PV layer 120 but then is impeded from entering the interior of the building 2 by the low E coating on the surface 134 of the inner panel 126. The inner panel 126 may also be preconfigured with openings and the like for accommodating corresponding cabling and a junction box 146 via which electricity generated by the PV layer 120 can be distributed and utilised in and/or by the building 2. The appliance of the low E 134’coating on the internal face 134 can be facilitated thanks to a method for manufacturing said module 114 in accordance with an aspect of the presently disclosed subject matter. The method involves first applying the low E coating 134’ to the internal surface 134 of the inner panel 126, and, within a short period of time (e.g., within two hours), constructing the module 114 so as to quickly enclose the coated inner panel 126 to minimise the exposure of the low E coating to the environment, since such exposure (e.g., to oxygen and moisture) can tarnish the low E coating. For example, shortly after the inner panel 126 is coated with the low E coating 134’, the inner and outer panels 126, 124 can be brought together to adheringly sandwich the PV layer 120 therebetween. Further machining processes and the like (e.g., drilling holes for cabling etc) can be performed on the coated inner panel 1during this short period of time prior to the coating being sealed against the environment, including securing the third panel 148 behind the inner panel 126, e.g., by assembling both on-site to a prefabricated construction. 0287659566- In essence, the present method involves producing the entire module 114 via a single facility, wherein the surface 134 of the inner panel 126 is first coated with a low E coating 134’, and then the application of the PV layer 120, outer panel 124 and rear panel 148 can swiftly take place before the low E coating degrades via exposure to the environment. This method contrasts with existing manufacturing methods which may involve two or more manufacturing facilities, wherein (with reference to Fig. 5) the low E coating of the rear panel 148 is first enclosed by the inner panel 126 to protect the coating against exposure to the environment. This arrangement of the inner panel 126 and rear panel 148 is then transported to a separate facility where the PV layer 120 and outer panel 124 can then be applied. Fig. 7 illustrates an exploded construction of an example PV layer 20 that can be sandwiched between two glass panels 24, 26 to form modules 14 of the present subject matter. While Fig. 7 shows the PV layer 20 as having a height that is similar to that of the panels 24, 26, this is simply for illustrative purposes; the PV layer 20 of example modules 14 of the present subject matter would have a height that is substantially less than that of the panels 24, 26. The depicted PV layer 20 comprises a central PV wafer 50 sandwiched between two layers of polyvinyl butyral (PVB) 52 which provide properties of strong binding and optical clarity. The adhesive is thus applied so as to adhere the respective outer surfaces of the PVB layers 52 to the respective panels 24, 26 adjacent thereto. Of course, as previously discussed, the PV layer spaces the adjacent inner surfaces 30b, 32b of the respective panels 24, 26 away from one another at the PV section 18 of the module 14. In the construction depicted in Figure 5, the thickness of the PV layer 20 would thus comprise the thickness of the PV wafer 50 and the thickness of the two PVB layers 52 between which the wafer 50 is sandwiched. In one example construction, the transparent glass panels 24, 26 may have a thickness of approximately 4mm to 6mm, and the PVB layers 52 and the PV wafer 50 may have a thickness of approximately 0.76mm. Of course, the PV layer 20 need not utilise PVB, and other encapsulants may be used, including EVA film (ethylene vinyl acetate). While various embodiments have been described herein, it should be understood that they have been presented by way of example only, and not by way of limitation. It will be 0287659566- apparent to a person skilled in the relevant art that various changes in form and detail can be made without departing from the spirit and scope of the invention. Thus, the scope of the present specification should not be limited by the embodiments described and depicted herein. Throughout this specification and the claims which follow, unless the context requires otherwise, the word "comprise", and variations such as "comprises" and "comprising", will be understood to imply the inclusion of a stated integer or step or group of integers or steps but not the exclusion of any other integer or step or group of integers or steps. 0287659566- CLAIMS 1. A photovoltaic (PV) curtain wall module for installation with like modules in a predetermined vertical orientation to form a curtain wall of a multistorey building comprising at least one storey defined by a transparent window area and one of two floor structures between which the transparent window area is confined, the module having a height corresponding to that of said at least one storey and comprising: an outer transparent panel; an inner transparent panel parallel to said outer transparent panel; an interior defined between the inner and outer panels and comprising a PV interior section having a height corresponding to that of one of said floor structures, and a transparent interior section having a height corresponding to that of said transparent window area, said PV interior section accommodating a PV layer for converting into electricity solar energy passing through the outer glass panel, the entire interior between the panels being filled with a transparent solidified adhesive for holding the panels in parallel orientation and the PV layer in place, wherein when the module is installed, the transparent interior section spans the transparent window area and the PV interior section spans one of said floor structures. 2. The module of claim 1, wherein an inner surface of the outer panel adjacent to the PV layer comprises a print overlying and thus at least partially visually obscuring the PV layer. 3. The module of claim 2, wherein the print comprises a color that corresponds to that of the floor structures of the building, such as white or grey. 4. The module of any one of the preceding claims, wherein an inner surface of the inner panel adjacent to the PV layer comprises a print underlying the PV layer. 5. The module of claim 4, wherein the print of the inner panel comprises a dark color that corresponds to that of the PV layer. 0287659566- 6. The module of any one of the preceding claims, wherein a thickness of the solidified adhesive between the panels at the transparent interior section is at least as thick as the PV layer. 7. The module of any one of the preceding claims, wherein the height of the PV interior section is between 25% to 45% of the height of the module. 8. The module of any one of the preceding claims, wherein the height of the PV interior section is approximately 40% of the height of the module. 9. The module of any one of the preceding claims, wherein the PV interior section is disposed toward an upper or lower end of the module. 10. The module of any one of the preceding claims, wherein the inner panel comprises a low emissivity coating. 11. The module of any one of the preceding claims, wherein the inner panel is configured to receive cabling and a junction box. 12. The module of claim 10, further comprising a third panel arranged parallel to and behind the inner panel, wherein the low emissivity coating is provided on an outer surface of the inner panel. 13. The module of claim 12, wherein the third panel is configured to receive cabling and a junction box. 14. A photovoltaic (PV) curtain wall module for installation with like modules in a predetermined orientation to form a curtain wall of a multistorey building comprising at least one storey defined by a transparent window area and one of two floor structures between which 0287659566- the transparent window area is confined, the module having a height corresponding to that of said at least one storey and comprising: an outer transparent panel; an inner transparent panel having an outer surface and an inner surface opposing an inner surface of the outer transparent panel, the outer surface of the inner transparent panel being provided with a low emissivity coating; an interior defined between the respective inner surfaces of the inner and outer panels and comprising a PV interior section having a height corresponding to that of one of said floor structures, and a transparent interior section having a height corresponding to that of said transparent window area, said PV interior section accommodating a PV layer for converting into electricity solar energy passing through the outer glass panel; and a third transparent panel arranged behind the inner panel such that the inner panel is arranged between the outer panel and the third panel, said third transparent panel being spaced apart from said inner panel; wherein when the module is installed, the transparent interior section spans the transparent window area and the PV interior section spans one of said floor structures. 15. The module of claim 14, wherein the inner surface of the outer panel adjacent to the PV layer comprises a print overlying and thus at least partially visually obscuring the PV layer. 16. The module of claim 14 or 15, wherein the inner surface of the inner panel adjacent to the PV layer comprises a print underlying the PV layer. 17. The module of any one of claims 14 to 16, wherein the inner and third panels comprise openings configured to enable passage therethrough of cabling associated with a junction box. 18. A method of manufacturing a module of claim 14, comprising: (i) providing the inner and outer transparent panels; (ii) providing the outer surface of the inner transparent panel with a low emissivity coating; 0287659566- (iii) sandwiching the PV layer between the inner and outer panels at the PV interior section; and (iv) providing and securing the third panel behind the inner panel in a spaced apart manner. 19. The method of claim 18, further comprising providing the inner surface of the outer panel that is to be adjacent to the PV layer with a print that is to overlie and thus at least partially visually obscuring the PV layer. 20. The method of claim 18 or 19, further comprising providing the inner surface of the inner panel that is to be adjacent to the PV layer with a print that is to underlie the PV layer. 21. The method of any one of claims 18 to 20, further comprising forming one or more openings in the inner and third panels for receipt of cabling associated with a junction box. 22. A photovoltaic (PV) curtain wall module manufactured in accordance with a method of any one of claims 18 to 21. 23. A multistorey building comprising at least one storey defined by a transparent window area and one of two floor structures between which the transparent window area is confined, the building further comprising a curtain wall formed from modules according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein at least one row of modules of the curtain wall spans said at least one storey such that: the transparent interior section of each module in said at least one row spans the transparent window area of said at least one storey; and the PV interior section of each module in said at least one row spans the floor structure of said at least one storey.

Claims (23)

1. - 16 - 0287659567- CLAIMS 1. A photovoltaic (PV) curtain wall module for installation with like modules in a predetermined vertical orientation to form a curtain wall of a multistorey building comprising at least one storey defined by a transparent window area and one of two floor structures between which the transparent window area is confined, the module having a height corresponding to that of said at least one storey and comprising: an outer transparent panel; an inner transparent panel parallel to said outer transparent panel; an interior defined between the inner and outer panels and comprising a PV interior section having a height corresponding to that of one of said floor structures, and a transparent interior section having a height corresponding to that of said transparent window area, said PV interior section accommodating a PV layer for converting into electricity solar energy passing through the outer glass panel, the entire interior between the panels being filled with a transparent solidified adhesive for holding the panels in parallel orientation and the PV layer in place, wherein when the module is installed, the transparent interior section spans the transparent window area and the PV interior section spans one of said floor structures.

2. The module of claim 1, wherein an inner surface of the outer panel adjacent to the PV layer comprises a print overlying and thus at least partially visually obscuring the PV layer.

3. The module of claim 2, wherein the print comprises a color that corresponds to that of the floor structures of the building, such as white or grey.

4. The module of any one of the preceding claims, wherein an inner surface of the inner panel adjacent to the PV layer comprises a print underlying the PV layer.

5. The module of claim 4, wherein the print of the inner panel comprises a dark color that corresponds to that of the PV layer. - 17 - 0287659567-

6. The module of any one of the preceding claims, wherein a thickness of the solidified adhesive between the panels at the transparent interior section is at least as thick as the PV layer.

7. The module of any one of the preceding claims, wherein the height of the PV interior section is between 25% to 45% of the height of the module.

8. The module of any one of the preceding claims, wherein the height of the PV interior section is approximately 40% of the height of the module.

9. The module of any one of the preceding claims, wherein the PV interior section is disposed toward an upper or lower end of the module.

10. The module of any one of the preceding claims, wherein the inner panel comprises a low emissivity coating.

11. The module of any one of the preceding claims, wherein the inner panel is configured to receive cabling and a junction box.

12. The module of claim 10, further comprising a third panel arranged parallel to and behind the inner panel, wherein the low emissivity coating is provided on an outer surface of the inner panel.

13. The module of claim 12, wherein the third panel is configured to receive cabling and a junction box.

14. A photovoltaic (PV) curtain wall module for installation with like modules in a predetermined orientation to form a curtain wall of a multistorey building comprising at least one storey defined by a transparent window area and one of two floor structures between which - 18 - 0287659567- the transparent window area is confined, the module having a height corresponding to that of said at least one storey and comprising: an outer transparent panel; an inner transparent panel having an outer surface and an inner surface opposing an inner surface of the outer transparent panel, the outer surface of the inner transparent panel being provided with a low emissivity coating; an interior defined between the respective inner surfaces of the inner and outer panels and comprising a PV interior section having a height corresponding to that of one of said floor structures, and a transparent interior section having a height corresponding to that of said transparent window area, said PV interior section accommodating a PV layer for converting into electricity solar energy passing through the outer glass panel; and a third transparent panel arranged behind the inner panel such that the inner panel is arranged between the outer panel and the third panel, said third transparent panel being spaced apart from said inner panel; wherein when the module is installed, the transparent interior section spans the transparent window area and the PV interior section spans one of said floor structures.

15. The module of claim 14, wherein the inner surface of the outer panel adjacent to the PV layer comprises a print overlying and thus at least partially visually obscuring the PV layer.

16. The module of claim 14 or 15, wherein the inner surface of the inner panel adjacent to the PV layer comprises a print underlying the PV layer.

17. The module of any one of claims 14 to 16, wherein the inner and third panels comprise openings configured to enable passage therethrough of cabling associated with a junction box.

18. A method of manufacturing a module of claim 14, comprising: (i) providing the inner and outer transparent panels; (ii) providing the outer surface of the inner transparent panel with a low emissivity coating; - 19 - 0287659567- (iii) sandwiching the PV layer between the inner and outer panels at the PV interior section; and (iv) providing and securing the third panel behind the inner panel in a spaced apart manner.

19. The method of claim 18, further comprising providing the inner surface of the outer panel that is to be adjacent to the PV layer with a print that is to overlie and thus at least partially visually obscuring the PV layer.

20. The method of claim 18 or 19, further comprising providing the inner surface of the inner panel that is to be adjacent to the PV layer with a print that is to underlie the PV layer.

21. The method of any one of claims 18 to 20, further comprising forming one or more openings in the inner and third panels for receipt of cabling associated with a junction box.

22. A photovoltaic (PV) curtain wall module manufactured in accordance with a method of any one of claims 18 to 21.

23. A multistorey building comprising at least one storey defined by a transparent window area and one of two floor structures between which the transparent window area is confined, the building further comprising a curtain wall formed from modules according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein at least one row of modules of the curtain wall spans said at least one storey such that: the transparent interior section of each module in said at least one row spans the transparent window area of said at least one storey; and the PV interior section of each module in said at least one row spans the floor structure of said at least one storey.