Automated collecting building envelopes / Involucri captanti automatizzati

This paper presents the first results of a research carried out by the University of Catania and the University of Rome La Sapienza. The main aim is to develop a new type of solar thermal building envelope, based on evacuated tube collectors, that is able to fulfill the energy demand for cooling and heating. The collectors are assembled on special modular frames, which are mechanically connected to the envelope. In comparison with other current systems applied on vertical surfaces, the proposed solution shows better performances by different point of views, included the aesthetic one. In order to increase the performance of the standard configuration and to adapt the solution to the façade specificities, it is possible to add some optional accessories, such as sun-tracking concentrating mirrors and automated monitoring and maintenance components. The design of these optional accessories is the specific topic of this paper. The study is presently focused on the design of this new solar thermal building envelope and on the definition of its technical feasibility and energy dimensioning process. Further analysis will concern the prototyping of the system, as well as its test and upgrade.