Evaluation and Enhancement of Solar Energy-Enabled Intelligent Structural Systems

Abstract

This article delineates the design and assessment of a multipurpose intelligent solar umbrella system meant for communal areas. The umbrella is fabricated from carbon steel to ensure superior endurance in extreme weather conditions, including elevated temperatures and humidity. Integrated photovoltaic panels capture solar energy during daytime, which is subsequently stored and employed at night for illumination or powering auxiliary devices. The technology incorporates intelligent automation that facilitates autonomous opening and closing in response to sunlight and sunset detection, alongside human remote operation using IoT-based control. Experimental testing over three days demonstrated an average daily energy output of 220 Wh, with a maximum power output of 48.2 W under solar irradiation of 1,050 W/m². In comparison to static systems, the intelligent mechanism enhanced energy utilization efficiency by roughly 23.7%. These findings illustrate the capacity of intelligent structural systems to improve energy sustainability and aid in the advancement of smart urban infrastructure.