Performance and applications of Gossamer windTM solar powered ceiling fans

Research has shown that highly efficient solar powered ceiling fans improve thermal comfort and potentially provide health benefits when air conditioning or conventional ceiling fans are not available, such as during the 2003 summer heat waves in Europe, and in many undeveloped areas of the world. Ceiling fans can improve the spatial effectiveness of heating, ventilation and air conditioning (HVAC) systems. They can reduce air conditioning energy use if occupants increase thermostat set-points and reduce frequency of operation, and if waste heat from the fan motor is minimized. This paper introduces a solar powered ceiling fan that utilizes Gossamer Wind improved blade technology and an efficient direct current (DC) motor. The Florida Solar Energy Center compared airflow and air velocity of Gossamer Wind Solar Powered (GWSP) fans. Three- and four-blade configurations were tested. GSWP fans were also connected to solar panels and tested. The potential uses of GWSP fans in dwellings, schools, warehouses, agricultural and livestock applications are discussed.