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

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. • A novel Trombe wall with multichannel PV blinds and PCM is introduced. • Coupled CFD-Response Surface Method for optimizing the novel Trombe wall. • Comparative performance evaluation of the innovative wall against existing Trombe wall. • Optimal parameter combinations were identified under various performance criteria. • The innovative wall demonstrates remarkable improvements in both thermal comfort enhancement and electricity generation.