Optimization-based feasibility study of an active thermal insulator

Abstract In this paper, we perform a preliminary optimization-based study to explore the potential effectiveness of the proposed Active Thermal Insulator (ATI). The ATI is a specially designed window that is expected to actively compensate for the heat gains or losses that occur through it. This window design has a thin-film photovoltaic (PV) module integrated into the outer pane, which powers thermoelectric (TE) units embedded in the frame of the window. TE units can enforce heat flow in a designated direction when supplied with electricity. In this study, the operation of the ATI window in summer has been considered. In summer, the TE units induce heat flow from the interior of the building envelope to the outside. This direction of heat transfer is opposite to that occurring naturally, and thereby minimizes the net heat gain of the room. Finned heat sinks were added to aid the heat transfer to and from the TE units. Our research seeks to design an ATI window that uses solar energy, thereby reducing the energy consumed by the air-conditioning system from the power grid. In this paper, we study the effect of TE unit selection on the ATI’s feasibility. We use optimization formulations to help describe the ATI’s performance. The results show the ATI design can offer a significant improvement over traditional windows, and that the selection of TE unit is critical to effectiveness of the design.