New Radiative Cooling System Inspired by Sunflowers Developed
Researchers designed an innovative cooling technology that increases daytime performance by taking the sun-tracking movement of sunflowers as an example.
Researchers in China have developed a radiative cooling system called Dynamic Sky View Factor Steering, inspired by the sun-tracking mechanism of sunflowers.
New Technology Inspired by Sunflowers
Researchers from Southeast University in Nanjing and the State Grid Electric Power Research Institute adapted the natural movement of sunflowers to technology.
The developed system, named Dynamic Sky View Factor Steering, offers high cooling performance compared to traditional fixed designs, especially during midday hours.
Working Principle and Features of the System
Radiative cooling technology is based on the principle of surfaces radiating heat into the sky via infrared radiation.
Thanks to its two-axis gimbal and solar sensors, the DSVFS system automatically adjusts the surface angle to minimize the directly exposed area.
Test Results and Performance Increase
In tests conducted with a special paint having 4.6 percent solar absorption, the system managed to produce 71 W/m² of cooling flux at solar noon.
While the value was 30 W/m² in the fixed-position scenario, the new technology showed a 135 percent increase in cooling flux.
Energy Savings and Future Prospects
While the movement mechanism consumes a low amount of energy averaging 2 W/m², the surface temperature was pulled 2.2 degrees below the ambient air during midday hours.
Simulations revealed that if the system is used in buildings, it could provide significant cooling energy savings across wide geographies.