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BrickSchema / Brick

Uniform metadata schema for buildings
http://brickschema.org/
BSD 3-Clause "New" or "Revised" License
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change PV_Panel to PV_Module #346

Open MatthewSteen opened 2 years ago

MatthewSteen commented 2 years ago

I believe the current usage of PV_Panel is incorrect according to its definition, which I think is intended to mean a PV_Module, "Panel" is probably the colloquially term, but actually means a collection of modules.

image

https://energyresearch.ucf.edu/consumer/solar-technologies/solar-electricity-basics/cells-modules-panels-and-arrays/

gtfierro commented 2 years ago

Ok, we can make this change. I think it makes sense to model the relationship as Panel hasPart Module.

What do you feel is more appropriate for types? Right now Array is a collection of Panel, so Array is not an equipment in its own right. Should Panel also be a collection (of Module), or should it remain an equipment? The hasPart relationship is appropriate in either situation

MatthewSteen commented 2 years ago

I think Panel could remain an equipment if Collection is intended to be a top-level type. Otherwise, I'm not sure where to make the distinction since Module is a "collection" of cells. I wasn't aware that Panel actually had a technical meaning and am not sure how frequently they're used in design/practice. For example, NREL's SAM tool does not have the concept of panels.

gtfierro commented 2 years ago

What if we treat Panel and Module as equivalent? Our "Panel" definition currently refers to the definition of a PV Module

MatthewSteen commented 2 years ago

I think that could work. Module is technically correct (used by NREL's SAM and EnergyPlus), but Panel is the colloquial term. I haven't found the definition of panel above anywhere else than the FSEC link, so it's probably not very common.

MatthewSteen commented 2 years ago

For reference...

So, feel free to keep it as is.

MatthewSteen commented 1 year ago

Researching this a bit more, the original definitions above seem to be correct per the standards organizations. So recommend PhotovoltaicModule.

ASTM E772 Standard Terminology of Solar Energy Conversion

solar panel—discouraged in favor of the more precise terms collector, flat-plate or module, photovoltaic. See also panel, photovoltaic.

IEC TC 82

UL 1703 Testing of Flat Plate Photovoltaic Modules and Panels

Module (flat-plate) – The smallest environmentally protected assembly of solar cells and ancillary parts. Such as interconnects and terminals, intended to generate DC power under nonconcentrated sunlight. Panel (flat-plate) – A collection of modules mechanically fastened together, wired, and designed to provide a field-installable unit.

(indirect source)