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Performance analysis and design optimization of a novel Trombe wall system using CFD and response surface method

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  • Hu, Zhongting
  • Liu, Ruifeng
  • Li, Kaijie
  • Wang, Zijun
  • Gu, Keying
  • He, Wei

Abstract

To overcome the limitations of traditional Trombe walls, such as their single-function nature and summer overheating issues, this study proposes an integrated Trombe wall system with multichannel photovoltaic blinds (MPVBTW). A phase change material (PCM) is embedded within the multichannel structure to enhance thermal regulation. A two-dimensional computational fluid dynamics (CFD) model, integrated with an optical model and experimentally validated, was developed to analyze heat transfer through the MPVBTW. Coupled with a response surface method, the CFD model was used to investigate the sensitivities of design variables and determine the optimal operating conditions for the MPVBTW across various performance criteria. A comparative analysis with a PV blind Trombe wall (PVBTW) system, using a traditional Trombe wall as a baseline, revealed that the MPVBTW achieved a thermal comfort enhancement factor of 0.349, substantially outperforming the PVBTW's 0.103. Furthermore, the MPVBTW exhibited superior electricity generation, producing 2.45 % and 4.8 % more electricity than the PVBTW system in summer and winter, respectively. This study highlights MPVBTW's potential for efficient electricity generation, enhanced heating performance, and improved indoor thermal comfort.

Suggested Citation

  • Hu, Zhongting & Liu, Ruifeng & Li, Kaijie & Wang, Zijun & Gu, Keying & He, Wei, 2025. "Performance analysis and design optimization of a novel Trombe wall system using CFD and response surface method," Energy, Elsevier, vol. 324(C).
    • Handle: RePEc:eee:energy:v:324:y:2025:i:c:s0360544225016731
    DOI: 10.1016/j.energy.2025.136031
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    References listed on IDEAS

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