Measurement of the Convective Heat Transfer Coefficient and Temperature of Vehicle-Integrated Photovoltaic Modules

To improve the thermal design of vehicle-integrated photovoltaic (VIPV) modules, this study clarifies characteristics convective heat transfer coefficient h between vehicle roof surface and surrounding air with respect to speed. Experiments on two types vehicles different body shapes indicate that is strongly affected by speed, it also shape depending position roof. Empirical equations for approximating as a function speed are derived from experimental datasets, differences herein traditional have been used analysis conventional stationary (PV) modules clarified. Furthermore, temperature change VIPV module were measured experimentally, confirming dominant factor causing high rate under driving conditions. In sunny summer conditions, reaches up 16.5 °C/min, which approximately 10 times greater than in standard cycle test PV modules.