An Optimized Heat Sink for Thermophotovoltaic Panels

In the present work, an innovative hybrid solar panel is proposed, which can be used to pave floors or to cover roofs. A particular heat sink is employed, which gives robustness to the panel and provides a better heat transfer effectiveness with respect to tube heat exchangers. The geometry of the heat sink which is employed in the panel is optimized with the help of a numerical model and a genetic algorithm. Some optimization examples are shown. The velocity and temperature distributions on the heat sink cross section are also investigated. The presented hybrid panel allows till 20% increase in the electrical efficiency with respect to a simple photovoltaic panel. Moreover, it can be easily installed under every environmental condition due to its robustness and resistance to water infiltration.