Solar power generation system

Abstract

To provide a solar power generation system that allows for easy installation of solar cell modules on slopes and also helps prevent slope collapse. [Solution] The solar power generation system 10 comprises a solar cell unit 11 having plate-shaped slope blocks 15 laid on the slope 20 and plate-shaped solar cell modules 16 attached to the upper surface of the slope blocks 15. Multiple solar cell units 11 are installed on the slope 20 in the direction of inclination X of the slope 20, and multiple units are also installed in the direction perpendicular to the inclination Y, which is perpendicular to the inclination direction X.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to a solar power generation system.

Background Art

[0002] In general, a solar cell module used in a solar power generation system is attached to a dedicated mount (see, for example, Patent Document 1). The mount is fixed to the ground via columns or the like.

Prior Art Documents

Patent Documents

[0003]

Patent Document 1

Summary of the Invention

Problems to be Solved by the Invention

[0004] In recent years, securing an installation location for solar cell modules has become an issue. Therefore, in some cases, it has been proposed to install solar cell modules on slopes (inclined surfaces) such as rivers and mountains.

[0005] However, it is considered difficult to perform the installation work of solar cell modules using a mount on a slope.

[0006] In addition, when installing a solar cell module using a mount on a slope, since it is necessary to fix the columns of the mount to the slope, there is a risk of destabilizing the slope. In that case, there is a concern that the slope may collapse.

[0007] The present invention has been made in view of the above circumstances, and a main object thereof is to provide a solar power generation system capable of easily installing a solar cell module on a slope and preventing the slope from collapsing.

Means for Solving the Problems

[0008] In order to solve the above problems, the photovoltaic power generation system of the present invention is The solar cell unit comprises a plate-shaped slope block laid on the slope and a solar cell module mounted on the upper surface of the slope block, The solar cell units are installed in multiple rows on the slope in the direction of the slope's inclination, as well as in multiple rows in a direction perpendicular to the inclination direction. [Effects of the Invention]

[0009] According to the present invention, a solar cell unit, which integrates a plate-shaped slope block and a solar cell module, can be installed on a slope by installing it on the slope. In this case, the installation of the solar cell module on the slope can be easily performed. Alternatively, the slope block may be installed on the slope first, and then the solar cell module may be attached to the upper side of the slope block. In this case as well, the installation of the solar cell module on the slope can be easily performed compared to the conventional installation method using a mounting frame.

[0010] Furthermore, multiple solar cell units are installed on the slope in the direction of the slope's incline, as well as in a direction perpendicular to the incline. In this case, the slope can be covered and protected by the slope blocks of each solar cell unit. This makes it possible to easily install solar cell modules on the slope while preventing the slope from collapsing. [Brief explanation of the drawing]

[0011] [Figure 1] This is a plan view showing a solar power generation system. [Figure 2] This is a cross-sectional view showing a solar power generation system, corresponding to the cross-section along line AA in Figure 1. [Figure 3] This is an exploded perspective view showing the solar cell unit. [Figure 4] This is a perspective view showing multiple solar cell units arranged in a row. [Figure 5] It is a plan view showing an electrical configuration of a photovoltaic power generation system. [Figure 6] (a) is a cross-sectional view showing adjacent slope blocks in an inclined direction, and (b) is a cross-sectional view showing a state in which the adjacent slope blocks in (a) are displaced due to displacement of the slope or the like. [Figure 7] It is a perspective view showing a foundation block. [Figure 8] (a) is a plan view of a foundation block, (b) is a front view, and (c) is a side view. [Figure 9] It is a perspective view showing a vertical strip block. [Figure 10] (a) is a plan view of a vertical strip block, (b) is a front view, and (c) is a side view. [Figure 11] In another embodiment, (a) is a bottom view showing a state in which adjacent slope blocks are connected using connecting hardware, and (b) is a cross-sectional view. [Figure 12] (a) is a perspective view showing connecting hardware, and (b) is a bottom view showing a state in which four slope blocks are connected using connecting hardware. [Figure 13] It is a bottom view showing a state in which a weed-proof sheet is provided on the lower surface side of a slope block. [Figure 14] (a) is a plan view showing a solar cell unit provided with a protection member, and (b) is a side view. [Figure 15] It is a plan view showing another example of a photovoltaic power generation system. [Figure 16] It is a plan view showing another example of a photovoltaic power generation system.

Embodiments for Carrying Out the Invention

[0012] Hereinafter, an embodiment embodying the present invention will be described with reference to the drawings.

[0013] As shown in FIGS. 1 and 2, the photovoltaic power generation system 10 is installed using a slope 20 such as a river embankment or a swimming pool. The photovoltaic power generation system 10 includes a plurality of solar cell units 11, a plurality of foundation blocks 12, and a plurality of vertical strip blocks 13. Hereinafter, the configuration of the solar cell unit 11 will be described first.

[0014] As shown in FIGS. 3 and 4, the solar cell unit 11 has a plate-shaped slope block 15 laid on the slope 20 and a plate-shaped solar cell module 16 mounted in a state of being placed on the upper surface side (front surface side) of the slope block 15. The slope block 15 and the solar cell module 16 are integrated in a factory in advance to form the solar cell unit 11.

[0015] The slope block 15 is a rectangular flat plate block formed of precast concrete. On the upper surface side of the slope block 15, a housing recess 21 for housing the solar cell module 16 and a wiring groove 22 for arranging the cables 16a and 16b of the solar cell module 16 are formed. The housing recess 21 is a rectangular recess formed according to the size of the solar cell module 16. The wiring groove 22 is formed by recessing from the bottom surface of the housing recess 21 and extends in the short side direction of the slope block 15. Specifically, the wiring groove 22 extends across the entire short side direction of the slope block 15, and both sides in the short side direction are open.

[0016] The solar cell module 16 generates electricity when irradiated with sunlight and is also called a solar cell panel. The solar cell module 16 is, for example, a silicon-based solar cell (crystalline silicon, amorphous silicon, etc.). The solar cell module 16 is in a rectangular flat plate shape, and a pair of cables 16a and 16b are attached to the back surface side (lower surface side) thereof. The pair of cables 16a and 16b includes a positive electrode cable 16a and a negative electrode cable 16b.

[0017] The solar cell module 16 is housed in a housing recess 21 of the slope block 15 and is fixed to the slope block 15 in this housed state. The solar cell module 16 is fixed to the slope block 15 using well-known fixing means such as adhesive, bolts, or fixing brackets. In addition, the cables 16a and 16b of the solar cell module 16 are respectively routed into the wiring groove 22 of the slope block 15. Waterproof sealant may be filled into the gap between the periphery of the solar cell module 16 and the slope block 15.

[0018] The wiring groove 22 is mostly covered by the solar cell module 16. On the other hand, both ends of the wiring groove 22 are open groove sections 22a that are not covered by the solar cell module 16 and are open to the top. Covers 24 are attached to the slope block 15 to cover each of these groove open sections 22a from above. This prevents rainwater and other liquids from entering the wiring groove 22 through the groove open sections 22a. There are two types of covers 24: a cover 24A that is attached across adjacent slope blocks 15, and a cover 24B that is attached to only one slope block 15.

[0019] As shown in Figures 1 and 2, the solar cell units 11 are installed in a grid pattern along the slope 20. In other words, multiple solar cell units 11 are installed in the slope direction X of the slope 20 (specifically, four units), and multiple units are also installed in the direction perpendicular to the slope direction X of the slope 20 (hereinafter simply referred to as "slope direction X"). In this case, it can be said that multiple rows of unit columns 25, in which multiple solar cell units 11 are arranged in series along the slope direction X, are arranged in multiple rows along the direction perpendicular to the slope Y. Furthermore, the multiple solar cell units 11 constituting the unit columns 25 are arranged over almost the entire area of ​​the slope direction X on the slope 20. More specifically, the direction perpendicular to the slope direction Y is the direction perpendicular to the slope direction X and parallel to the slope 20.

[0020] Furthermore, in this embodiment, each solar cell unit 11 constituting the unit row 25 is the same size. Specifically, in this embodiment, all solar cell units 11 in each unit row 25 are the same size.

[0021] As shown in Figure 5, each solar cell unit 11 is positioned so that the wiring groove 22 of the slope block 15 extends in the direction of inclination X. As a result, in each unit row 25, the wiring grooves 22 of each solar cell unit 11 constituting the unit row 25 are arranged in series and continuous with one another. These continuous wiring grooves 22 then form a wiring passage section 26 that extends continuously in the direction of inclination X.

[0022] In Figure 5, the wiring grooves 22 are shown with the covers 24 removed for clarity, and the portion of the wiring grooves 22 covered by the solar cell unit 11 is shown with a dashed line. Also in Figure 5, the portion of the wiring path that passes through the inside of the component is shown with a solid line for clarity.

[0023] In each unit row 25, the solar cell modules 16 of each solar cell unit 11 constituting the unit row 25 are electrically connected in series. More specifically, in each unit row 25, the cables 16a and 16b of adjacent solar cell modules 16 in the tilt direction X are connected to each other, thereby connecting each solar cell module 16 in the unit row 25 in series. In this case, each unit row 25 forms a solar cell string 28 in which each solar cell module 16 of the unit row 25 is connected in series. The solar cell strings 28 of each unit row 25 constitute the "photovoltaic power generation section".

[0024] In each unit row 25, at the opposing portions where adjacent slope blocks 15 of solar cell units 11 face each other in the inclination direction X, a displacement suppression means is provided to suppress displacement in the thickness direction at the boundary between each slope block 15. The configuration of this displacement suppression means will be described below. In the following description, one of the adjacent slope blocks 15 in the inclination direction X will be referred to as "slope block 15X" and the other as "slope block 15Y".

[0025] As shown in Figure 6(a), the slope block 15X has a recess 31 formed on the opposing surface (end face) facing the slope block 15Y, which opens toward the slope block 15Y. On the other hand, the slope block 15Y has an elastic member 33 attached to the opposing surface (end face) facing the slope block 15X. The elastic member 33 is formed in a cylindrical shape, for example, from a rubber material. The elastic member 33 is attached to the slope block 15Y by a bolt 34. More specifically, the bolt 34 is screwed through the elastic member 33 into an insert screw 36 embedded in the slope block 15Y.

[0026] The elastic member 33 protrudes toward the slope block 15X and fits into the recess 31 of the slope block 15X. In this case, the elastic member 33 engages with the recess 31 in the thickness direction of the slope blocks 15X and 15Y. This suppresses displacement of each slope block 15X and 15Y in the thickness direction at their boundary with each other. The elastic member 33 corresponds to the "protrusion". The "slip suppression means" is configured including the recess 31 and the elastic member 33. Furthermore, the slip suppression means is not provided at the opposing portions where adjacent slope blocks 15 of solar cell units 11 face each other in the direction perpendicular to the inclination Y.

[0027] With the above configuration, as shown in Figure 6(b), even if each slope block 15X, 15Y is displaced due to the displacement of the slope 20, the thickness direction shift of each slope block 15X, 15Y at their boundary is suppressed, thus preventing the occurrence of a thickness difference between each slope block 15X, 15Y. This makes it possible to prevent disconnections in the cables 16a, 16b of each solar cell module 16 that are connected across the boundary of each slope block 15X, 15Y, and to prevent damage to the connectors of each cable 16a, 16b.

[0028] Next, we will explain the basic block 12.

[0029] As shown in Figures 1 and 2, the foundation blocks 12 are installed on the toe portion 40, which is the lower end of the slope 20. Multiple foundation blocks 12 are arranged in a line in the direction Y perpendicular to the inclination, and these multiple foundation blocks 12 form the toe structure 41. The toe structure 41 extends continuously in the direction Y perpendicular to the inclination and is positioned adjacent to each of the solar cell units 11 (hereinafter, their reference numerals will be "A") located at the lowest level. Each foundation block 12 corresponds to a "toe block". For clarification, the lowest solar cell unit 11A refers to the solar cell unit 11 located at the lowest point in the inclination direction X.

[0030] Each foundation block 12 is formed from precast concrete and is elongated in the direction Y perpendicular to the inclination. Each foundation block 12 has the same length L2 in the direction Y perpendicular to the inclination, and this length L2 is the same as the length L1 in the direction Y perpendicular to the inclination of the solar cell unit 11 (in other words, the unit row 25). Each foundation block 12 is positioned in the same location as each unit row 25 in the direction Y perpendicular to the inclination. In other words, each foundation block 12 is positioned in the same location as each unit row 25 in the direction Y perpendicular to the inclination. Therefore, each boundary of adjacent foundation blocks 12 is in the same location as each boundary of adjacent unit row 25 in the direction Y perpendicular to the inclination.

[0031] Adjacent foundation blocks 12 may or may not be connected to each other by connecting fittings or the like.

[0032] Each foundation block 12 is installed embedded in the ground, with at least its upper surface exposed. The side surface 12a of each foundation block 12 facing the solar cell unit 11 is an inclined surface perpendicular to the slope 20. The side surface 12a of each foundation block 12 forms the side surface 41a of the toe structure 41. The side surface 41a of the toe structure 41 is in contact with the end surface of the slope block 15 of the lowest solar cell unit 11A.

[0033] As shown in Figures 7 and 8(a) to 8(c), each foundation block 12 has a wiring hole 43 that extends in the longitudinal direction of the foundation block 12 (i.e., the direction perpendicular to the inclination Y). The wiring hole 43 is located at the top of the foundation block 12 and penetrates the foundation block 12 in the longitudinal direction.

[0034] Each foundation block 12 has a hole 44 that opens on its side surface 12a and leads to a wiring hole 43. The hole 44 is formed in the middle (more specifically, the central) part of the foundation block 12 in the longitudinal direction. Note that the hole 44 corresponds to the "first hole".

[0035] Each foundation block 12 has a concave space 46 that opens upward at the same position as the hole 44 in the longitudinal direction. The concave space 46 opens upward through the wiring hole 43, and the hole 44 is connected to the concave space 46. The concave space 46 is a rectangular parallelepiped space, and the width in two mutually orthogonal directions is larger than the diameter of the wiring hole 43. The concave space 46 corresponds to the "first space".

[0036] A cover portion 48 is provided at the opening 47 that opens upward in the concave space 46. The cover portion 48 is made of concrete, for example, and is formed in the shape of a rectangular plate. The opening 47 is closed by this cover portion 48. The cover portion 48 is installed with its peripheral edge resting on the upper surface 12b of the foundation block 12, and is fixed to the foundation block 12 in this state with bolts (for example, anti-theft bolts). The cover portion 48 is waterproofed to prevent rainwater from entering the opening 47 when the opening 47 is closed. Furthermore, the cover portion 48 is not limited to concrete; it may also be made of metal or resin.

[0037] As shown in Figures 1 and 2, when the foundation blocks 12 are arranged in the direction Y perpendicular to the slope to form the toe structure 41, the wiring holes 43 of each foundation block 12 are continuous with each other. In this case, the wiring passage 49 of the toe structure 41 is formed by these continuous wiring holes 43. The wiring passage 49 corresponds to the "first passage section". Alternatively, a ring-shaped packing 55 (see Figure 7) surrounding the wiring passage 49 may be interposed between adjacent foundation blocks 12. In this case, rainwater can be prevented from entering the wiring passage 49 through the gap between adjacent foundation blocks 12.

[0038] As shown in Figure 5, the holes 44 in each base block 12, i.e., the multiple holes 44 in the toe structure 41, are positioned to correspond to each unit row 25 (in other words, each solar cell string 28). That is, each hole 44 in the toe structure 41 is located in the same position as each unit row 25 (in other words, each solar cell string 28) in the direction perpendicular to the slope Y. More specifically, each hole 44 in the toe structure 41 is located in the same position as the wiring passage 26 of each unit row 25 in the direction perpendicular to the slope Y. Furthermore, each hole 44 is in communication with the wiring passage 26 of each unit row 25.

[0039] Next, I will explain the vertical strip block 13.

[0040] As shown in Figures 1 and 2, the vertical strip blocks 13 are installed on the slope shoulder 50, which is the upper end of the slope 20. Multiple vertical strip blocks 13 are arranged in a line in the direction Y perpendicular to the inclination, and these multiple vertical strip blocks 13 form the slope shoulder structure 51. The slope shoulder structure 51 extends continuously in the direction Y perpendicular to the inclination and is positioned adjacent to each of the solar cell units 11 (hereinafter, their reference numerals will be "B") located at the top. Each vertical strip block 13 corresponds to a "slope shoulder block". For clarification, the top solar cell unit 11B refers to the solar cell unit 11 located at the uppermost position in the inclination direction X.

[0041] Each vertical strip block 13 is formed from precast concrete and is elongated, extending in the direction Y perpendicular to the inclination. Each vertical strip block 13 has the same length L3 in the direction Y perpendicular to the inclination, and this length L3 is the same as the length L1 in the direction Y perpendicular to the inclination of the solar cell unit 11 (in other words, the unit row 25). Each vertical strip block 13 is positioned in the same location as each unit row 25 in the direction Y perpendicular to the inclination. In other words, each vertical strip block 13 is positioned in the same location as each unit row 25 in the direction Y perpendicular to the inclination. Therefore, the boundaries of adjacent vertical strip blocks 13 are in the same location in the direction Y perpendicular to the inclination as the boundaries of adjacent unit rows 25.

[0042] Adjacent vertical strip blocks 13 may be connected to each other by connecting fittings or the like, or they may not be connected.

[0043] Each vertical strip block 13 is installed embedded in the ground, with at least its upper surface exposed. Each vertical strip block 13 has a vertically elongated rectangular cross-section and a side surface 13a facing the solar cell unit 11. The side surface 13a of each vertical strip block 13 forms the side surface 51a of the slope shoulder structure 51. The side surface 51a of the slope shoulder structure 51 abuts against the end surface of the slope block 15 of the uppermost solar cell unit 11B. The end surface of the slope block 15 is an inclined surface that slopes in the thickness direction of the slope block 15 and is parallel to the side surface 51a of the slope shoulder structure 51.

[0044] As shown in Figures 9 and 10(a) to (c), each vertical strip block 13 has a wiring hole 53 that extends in the longitudinal direction of the vertical strip block 13 (i.e., in the direction perpendicular to the inclination Y). The wiring hole 53 is located at the top of the vertical strip block 13 and penetrates the vertical strip block 13 in the longitudinal direction.

[0045] Each vertical strip block 13 has a hole 54 that opens on its side surface 13a and leads to a wiring hole 53. The hole 54 is formed in the middle (more specifically, the central) part of the vertical strip block 13 in the longitudinal direction. Note that the hole 54 corresponds to the "second hole".

[0046] Each vertical strip block 13 has a concave space 56 that opens upward at the same position as the hole 54 in the longitudinal direction. The concave space 56 opens upward through the wiring hole 53, and the hole 54 passes through the concave space 56. The concave space 56 is a rectangular parallelepiped space, and the width in two mutually orthogonal directions is larger than the diameter of the wiring hole 53. The concave space 56 corresponds to the "second space."

[0047] A cover portion 58 is provided over the opening 57 that opens upward in the concave space 56. The cover portion 58 is made of concrete, for example, and is formed in the shape of a rectangular plate. The opening 57 is closed by this cover portion 58. The cover portion 58 is installed with its peripheral edge resting on the upper surface 13b of the vertical strip block 13, and is fixed to the vertical strip block 13 in this state by bolts (for example, anti-theft bolts). The cover portion 58 is waterproofed to prevent rainwater from entering the opening 57 when it is closed. Furthermore, the cover portion 58 is not limited to concrete; it may also be made of metal or resin.

[0048] As shown in Figures 1 and 2, when the vertical strip blocks 13 are arranged in the direction Y perpendicular to the slope to form the slope shoulder structure 51, the wiring holes 53 of each vertical strip block 13 are continuous with each other. In this case, the wiring passages 59 of the slope shoulder structure 51 are formed by these continuous wiring holes 53. The wiring passages 59 correspond to the "second passage section". Alternatively, a ring-shaped packing 65 (see Figure 9) surrounding the wiring passages 59 may be interposed between adjacent vertical strip blocks 13. In this case, it is possible to prevent rainwater from entering the wiring passages 59 through the gaps between adjacent vertical strip blocks 13.

[0049] As shown in Figure 5, the holes 54 in each vertical strip block 13, i.e., the multiple holes 54 in the slope shoulder structure 51, are positioned to correspond to each unit row 25 (in other words, each solar cell string 28). That is, each hole 54 in the slope shoulder structure 51 is located in the same position as each unit row 25 (in other words, each solar cell string 28) in the direction perpendicular to the inclination Y. More specifically, each hole 54 in the slope shoulder structure 51 is located in the same position as the wiring passage 26 of each unit row 25 in the direction perpendicular to the inclination Y. Furthermore, each hole 54 is in communication with the wiring passage 26 of each unit row 25.

[0050] Next, we will explain the electrical configuration of the solar power generation system 10.

[0051] As described above, the photovoltaic power generation system 10 has multiple solar cell strings 28 provided for each unit row 25. Furthermore, as shown in Figure 5, the photovoltaic power generation system 10 has a first cable 61 and a second cable 62 connected to each solar cell string 28. The first cable 61 is connected to the negative electrode side of each solar cell string 28, and the second cable 62 is connected to the positive electrode side of each solar cell string 28. The first cable 61 corresponds to the "first wiring path," and the second cable 62 corresponds to the "second wiring path."

[0052] In the slope shoulder structure 51, the vertical strip block 13X positioned at the end has an introduction hole 63 formed therein for introducing the first cable 61 and the second cable 62. The hole 63 opens on the side of the vertical strip block 13X (slope shoulder structure 51) opposite to the solar cell string 28 side and leads to the wiring passage 59. Furthermore, the hole 63 is in the same position as the hole 54 of the vertical strip block 13X in the direction Y perpendicular to the inclination.

[0053] The first cable 61 is led through holes 54, 63 in the vertical strip block 13X to the wiring passage 26 of the unit row 25 (unit row 25 located at the end) adjacent to the vertical strip block 13X in the direction of inclination X. The first cable 61 extends in the direction of inclination X within the wiring passage 26. Furthermore, the first cable 61 is led from the wiring passage 26 through holes 44 in the toe structure 41 (foundation block 12) to the wiring passage 49, and extends in the direction perpendicular to the inclination Y through the wiring passage 49.

[0054] The first cable 61 is connected to the negative terminal side of each solar cell string 28. More specifically, the first cable 61 is provided with multiple branch cables 66 that branch off from it. Each of these branch cables 66 is connected to the cable 16b (negative terminal cable) of the solar cell module 16 located at the bottom of each solar cell string 28. In this case, the interconnected cables 16b and 66 constitute a connecting cable section 68. This connecting cable section 68 corresponds to the "first wiring section".

[0055] As described above, the first cable 61 is connected to each solar cell string 28 via a connecting cable section 68. Each connecting cable section 68 is passed through each hole 44 of the slope toe structure 41. Connectors are provided for both the branch cable 66 and the cable 16b, and the two cables 16b and 66 are connected by connecting these connectors.

[0056] The second cable 62 is led through a hole 63 in the slope shoulder structure 51 (specifically the vertical band block 13X) into a wiring passage 59, and extends in the direction Y perpendicular to the inclination within the wiring passage 59. The second cable 62 is connected to the positive electrode side of each solar cell string 28. Specifically, the second cable 62 is provided with multiple branch cables 67 that branch off from it. Each of these branch cables 67 is connected to the cable 16a (positive electrode cable) of the solar cell module 16 located at the top of each solar cell string 28. In this case, the interconnected cables 16a and 67 constitute a connecting cable section 69. The connecting cable section 69 corresponds to the "second wiring section".

[0057] As described above, the second cable 62 is connected to each solar cell string 28 via a connecting cable section 69. Each connecting cable section 69 is passed through each hole 54 of the slope shoulder structure 51. Connectors are provided on both the branch cable 67 and the cable 16a, and the two cables 16a and 67 are connected by connecting these connectors.

[0058] As described in detail above, the configuration of this embodiment provides the following excellent effects.

[0059] By installing a solar cell unit 11, which is an integrated plate-shaped slope block 15 and plate-shaped solar cell module 16, on the slope 20, the solar cell module 16 can be installed on the slope 20. In this case, the installation of the solar cell module 16 on the slope 20 can be easily performed.

[0060] Furthermore, multiple solar cell units 11 are installed on the slope 20 in the direction of inclination X, and also in the direction perpendicular to the inclination Y. In this case, the slope 20 can be covered and protected by the slope blocks 15 of each solar cell unit 11. This makes it possible to prevent the collapse of the slope 20 while facilitating the installation of solar cell modules 16 on the slope 20.

[0061] Foundation blocks 12 are installed at the toe of the slope 40, and a toe structure 41 is formed by arranging multiple foundation blocks 12 in parallel in the direction Y perpendicular to the slope. This protects the toe of the slope 40, and as a result, it is possible to further prevent the collapse of the slope 20.

[0062] Furthermore, a wiring passage 49 extending in the direction Y perpendicular to the slope is formed inside the toe structure 41. The first cables 61 connected to the solar cell strings 28 (corresponding to the photovoltaic power generation section) of each unit row 25 are passed through this wiring passage 49. This allows the toe structure 41 (foundation block 12) to be used to prevent the first cables 61 from being exposed. It should be noted that preventing the first cables 61 from being exposed is preferable from the standpoint of safety and security.

[0063] Vertical strip blocks 13 are installed on the shoulder of the slope 50, and a slope shoulder structure 51 is formed by arranging multiple vertical strip blocks 13 in parallel in the direction Y perpendicular to the slope. This protects the shoulder of the slope 50, and as a result, further prevents the collapse of the slope 20.

[0064] Furthermore, a wiring passage 59 extending in the direction Y perpendicular to the slope is formed inside the slope shoulder structure 51. The second cables 62 connected to the solar cell strings 28 of each unit row 25 are passed through this wiring passage 59. This allows the slope shoulder structure 51 (vertical band block 13) to prevent the second cables 62 from being exposed. It should be noted that preventing the exposure of the second cables 62 is preferable from the standpoint of safety and security.

[0065] Multiple solar cell units 11 are arranged in a row 25 in the direction of inclination X, and these row 25 is arranged in a row perpendicular to the inclination Y. In each row 25, a solar cell string 28 is formed by connecting the solar cell modules 16 of each solar cell unit 11 that make up the row 25 in series. In addition, for each solar cell string 28 in each row 25, the solar cell string 28 is connected to a first cable 61 via a connecting cable section 68, and the solar cell string 28 is connected to a second cable 62 via a connecting cable section 69.

[0066] Furthermore, the toe structure 41 has multiple holes 44 through which each connecting cable 68 passes. In this case, by forming each hole 44 at a position corresponding to each solar cell string 28, it is possible to shorten the length of each connecting cable 68 and minimize the exposure of each connecting cable 68. Similarly, the shoulder structure 51 has multiple holes 54 through which each connecting cable 69 passes. In this case, by forming each hole 54 at a position corresponding to each solar cell string 28, it is possible to shorten the length of each connecting cable 69 and minimize the exposure of each connecting cable 69.

[0067] Since each hole 44 is open on the side surface 41a of the slope toe structure 41 on the solar cell string 28 side, it is convenient for passing the connecting cable 68 through the hole 44. In addition, the slope toe structure 41 has multiple recessed spaces 46 formed for each hole 44, with a wiring passage 49 open upward (outward) and through which the hole 44 passes. In this case, when connecting the first cable 61 and the solar cell string 28 with the connecting cable 68, the work can be performed through the recessed space 46. Therefore, such connection work can be made easier.

[0068] Furthermore, the presence of the concave space 46 makes it possible to easily inspect and maintain the connection between the first cable 61 and the solar cell string 28 by removing the cover 48.

[0069] Since each hole 54 is open on the side surface 51a of the slope shoulder structure 51 on the solar cell string 28 side, it is convenient for passing the connecting cable 69 through the hole 54. In addition, the slope shoulder structure 51 has multiple recessed spaces 56 formed for each hole 54, which open the wiring passage 59 upward (outward) and through which the hole 54 passes. In this case, when connecting the second cable 62 and the solar cell string 28 with the connecting cable 69, the work can be done through the recessed space 56. Therefore, such connection work can be made easier.

[0070] Furthermore, the presence of the concave space 56 makes it possible to easily inspect and maintain the connection between the second cable 62 and the solar cell string 28 by removing the cover 58.

[0071] The multiple solar cell units 11 arranged in the direction of inclination X, and the base blocks 12 and vertical strip blocks 13 arranged together with each of these solar cell units 11 in the direction of inclination X, all have the same length in the direction perpendicular to the inclination Y. In other words, each solar cell unit 11 constituting the unit row 25, and the base blocks 12 and vertical strip blocks 13 arranged together with the unit row 25 in the direction of inclination X, all have the same length in the direction perpendicular to the inclination Y.

[0072] In this configuration, the length of each of the multiple solar cell units 11, base blocks 12, and vertical strip blocks 13 arranged in series in the inclination direction X is the same in the direction perpendicular to the inclination Y. Therefore, each of these solar cell units 11, base blocks 12, and vertical strip blocks 13 can be used to form a block row with a constant length in the direction perpendicular to the inclination Y. In this case, a power generation system can be constructed by arranging multiple such block rows in the direction perpendicular to the inclination Y. In this configuration, a power generation system with a desired amount of power can be easily constructed by adjusting the number of block rows. Furthermore, when expanding the power generation system, expansion can be easily carried out as it can be done in units of block rows.

[0073] The present invention is not limited to the embodiments described above, and may be implemented, for example, as follows.

[0074] (1) The slope blocks 15 of adjacent solar cell units 11 may be connected using connecting hardware. Specific examples are shown in Figures 11(a) and (b). Note that the solar cell modules are not shown in Figures 11(a) and (b). As shown in Figures 11(a) and (b), each slope block 72 of each solar cell unit 71 has holes 74 formed at its four corners. Each hole 74 penetrates the slope block 72 in the thickness direction.

[0075] The connecting hardware 75 is formed by bending a rod into a U-shape and has a pair of vertical rod sections 75a extending parallel to each other and a horizontal rod section 75b connecting each vertical rod section 75a. A male threaded portion is formed at the tip of each vertical rod section 75a. Each vertical rod section 75a of the connecting hardware 75 is inserted from below into each hole 74 of adjacent slope blocks 72, and a nut 77 is fastened from above to the male threaded portion of each vertical rod section 75a in this inserted state. In this way, adjacent slope blocks 72 are connected by the connecting hardware 75.

[0076] Furthermore, this connecting hardware 75 may be used to connect adjacent slope blocks 72 in the direction of inclination X (in other words, the shorter side of the slope block 72), or to connect adjacent slope blocks 72 in the direction perpendicular to the inclination Y (in other words, the longer side of the slope block 72).

[0077] (2) The connecting hardware may be configured as shown in Figures 12(a) and (b). As shown in Figures 12(a) and (b), a connecting hardware 80 is provided at the corner proximity section 79 where the corners of the four slope blocks 72 are close together, to connect the four slope blocks 72. The connecting hardware 80 has a first member 81 and a second member 82 that can be connected to each other. The first member 81 has four tubular connecting parts 81a that are inserted into each hole 74 of the four slope blocks 72 in the corner proximity section 79, and a cross-shaped connecting part 81b that connects the upper ends of the four connecting parts 81a. Similarly, the second member 82 has four tubular connected parts 82a that are inserted into each hole 74 of the four slope blocks 72 in the corner proximity section 79, and a cross-shaped connecting part 82b that connects the lower ends of the four connected parts 82a.

[0078] Each connected portion 82a of the second member 82 is inserted from below into the four holes 74 in the corner adjacent portion 79. Similarly, each connected portion 81a of the first member 81 is inserted from above into the four holes 74 and connected to each connected portion 82a of the second member 82. More specifically, each connected portion 81a is connected by being externally fitted onto each connected portion 82a of the second member 82. In this state, with the first member 81 and the second member 82 connected, the four slope blocks 72 (specifically the corner adjacent portion 79) are sandwiched between these two members 81 and 82. As a result, the four slope blocks 72 are connected to each other by the connecting hardware 80.

[0079] (3) As shown in Figure 13, a weed control sheet 85 may be provided spanning the underside (back side) of the slope block 15 of adjacent solar cell units 11. The weed control sheet 85 is a nonwoven fabric sheet formed in a strip shape. The weed control sheet 85 is positioned to span the underside of adjacent slope blocks 15 and extend along the boundary of each slope block 15. In addition, multiple weed control sheets 85 are arranged in a grid pattern, but for the sake of explanation, the boundaries of each weed control sheet 85 are not shown in Figure 13.

[0080] In this way, the weed control sheet 85 is positioned across the underside of adjacent slope blocks 15, so that it is interposed between the adjacent slope blocks 15 and the slope 20. This prevents grass from growing through the gaps between adjacent slope blocks 15.

[0081] (4) As shown in Figures 14(a) and (b), the solar cell unit 11 may be provided with a protective member 91 that covers the solar cell module 16 from above and allows sunlight to pass through. The protective member 91 is made of, for example, wire mesh. With this configuration, it is possible to reliably prevent accidental contact of hands or other objects with the solar cell module 16. This makes it possible to improve safety. The protective member 91 does not necessarily have to be made of wire mesh, and may be made of, for example, a transparent plate material.

[0082] (5) In the above embodiment, the slope block 15 was formed from precast concrete, but the slope block 15 may also be formed from materials other than concrete, such as resin or metal materials. The foundation block 12 and the vertical strip block 13 may also be formed from materials other than concrete, such as resin or metal materials.

[0083] (6) In the above embodiment, of the cables 16a and 16b of the solar cell module 16, the positive electrode cable 16a was located on the upper side in the inclination direction X and the negative electrode cable 16b was located on the lower side in the inclination direction X. However, this can be reversed so that the positive electrode cable 16a is located on the lower side in the inclination direction X and the negative electrode cable 16b is located on the upper side in the inclination direction X. In that case, the first cable 61 passed through the wiring passage 49 of the slope toe structure 41 will be connected to the positive electrode side of each solar cell string 28, and the second cable 62 passed through the wiring passage 59 of the slope shoulder structure 51 will be connected to the negative electrode side of each solar cell string 28.

[0084] (7) In the above embodiment, a silicon-based solar cell was used as the solar cell module 16, but other types of solar cells may be used, such as compound solar cells (CIS-based solar cells, GaAs-based solar cells, etc.) or organic solar cells (perovskite solar cells, organic thin-film cells, etc.). In addition, multiple types of solar cells may be used, such as making some of the solar cell modules 16 silicon-based solar cells and the rest compound solar cells.

[0085] (8) Perovskite solar cells and organic thin-film cells are in sheet form and are flexible. When these solar cells are used as solar cell modules 16, the upper surface of the slope block 15 to which the solar cell modules 16 are attached may be formed into a curved shape that is convex upward. In that case, the solar cell modules 16 can be attached to the upper surface of the slope block 15 with adhesive or the like while the solar cell modules 16 are arranged in a curved shape along the upper surface of the slope block 15. With this configuration, the solar cell modules 16 can easily receive sunlight regardless of the direction of sunlight, making it possible to improve the power generation efficiency.

[0086] (9) In the above embodiment, a toe structure 41 and a shoulder structure 51 were provided, but it is also possible to have a configuration in which only one of the toe structure 41 and the shoulder structure 51 is provided. For example, if only the toe structure 41 is provided, it is possible to separately provide a cable insertion tube in the shoulder 50 for passing the second cable 62 through. Also, if only the shoulder structure 51 is provided, it is possible to separately provide a cable insertion tube in the toe 40 for passing the first cable 61 through.

[0087] (10) In the above embodiment, the solar cell units 11 were arranged over substantially the entire area of ​​the slope direction X on the slope 20. However, this may be changed so that the solar cell units 11 are arranged only on the lower part of the slope direction X on the slope 20. In this case, it is conceivable to install intermediate blocks at the position above the uppermost solar cell units 11 on the slope 20 in the slope direction X. The intermediate blocks are positioned in the middle of the slope direction X on the slope 20. The intermediate blocks are formed, for example, from precast concrete and installed with at least a part of them embedded in the ground. Multiple intermediate blocks are arranged in parallel in the direction Y perpendicular to the slope, and these multiple intermediate blocks form an intermediate structure.

[0088] Even in this configuration, by forming a passage (third passage) extending in the inclined direction Y in the intermediate structure, the second cable 62 can be passed through the third passage. This makes it possible to prevent the second cable 62 from being exposed using the intermediate structure.

[0089] Alternatively, the solar cell unit 11 may be placed only on the upper portion of the slope 20 in the direction of inclination X.

[0090] (11) As shown in Figure 15, a solar cell string 86 may be constructed by connecting multiple solar cell modules 16 of multiple solar cell units 11 arranged in series in the direction Y perpendicular to the inclination. Multiple solar cell strings 86 are arranged in the direction X of inclination. A cable 87 is provided that is connected to the positive electrode side (right side in the figure) of each solar cell string 86, and a cable 88 is provided that is connected to the negative electrode side (left side in the figure) of each solar cell string 86. Of the cables 87 and 88, cable 88 is passed through a wiring passage 93 formed in the slope toe structure 92. Cable 88 is introduced from one end opening of the wiring passage 93 and led out from the other end opening. Note that in the example of Figure 15, a slope shoulder structure is not provided.

[0091] With the above configuration, similar to the above embodiment, the toe structure 92 can be used to further prevent the collapse of the slope 20 while preventing the cable 88 from being exposed. In the above configuration, the cable 88 corresponds to the "first wiring path section," and the wiring passage 93 corresponds to the "first passage section."

[0092] Alternatively, cable insertion tubes may be provided on both sides of each solar cell string 86 in the direction Y perpendicular to the inclination, and cables 88 (more specifically, the portion of cable 88 not inserted into the wiring passage 93) and cable 87 may be inserted into these cable insertion tubes, respectively.

[0093] (12) In the example of Figure 16, the routing of the cables 95 and 96 connected to the positive and negative terminal sides of each solar cell string 86 has been changed from the example of Figure 15. In the example of Figure 16, the cable 95 connected to the positive terminal side of each solar cell string 86 is routed through a wiring passage 99 formed in the slope shoulder structure 98. In this case, as in the above embodiment, the slope shoulder structure 98 can be used to further prevent the collapse of the slope 20 while preventing the cable 95 from being exposed. Note that the cable 95 corresponds to the "second wiring route section" and the wiring passage 99 corresponds to the "second passage section". [Explanation of Symbols]

[0094] 10...Solar power generation system, 11...Solar cell unit, 12...Foundation block, 13...Vertical strip block, 15...Slope block, 16...Solar cell module, 20...Slope, 25...Unit row, 28...Solar cell string, 40...Toe of slope, 41...Toe of slope structure, 44...Hole, 46...Concave space, 49...Wiring passage, 50...Shoulder of slope, 51...Shoulder of slope structure, 54...Hole, 56...Concave space, 59...Wiring passage, 61...First cable, 62...Second cable.

Claims

1. The solar cell unit comprises a plate-shaped slope block laid on the slope and a solar cell module mounted on the upper surface of the slope block, The solar cell units are installed in a plurality of rows on the slope in the direction of the slope, Multiple rows of the aforementioned solar cell units are arranged in the direction of the inclination, and these rows are arranged in a direction perpendicular to the inclination direction. In each of the aforementioned unit rows, a solar cell string is formed by connecting the solar cell modules of each solar cell unit constituting the unit row in series. Each of the aforementioned unit rows is provided with a first wiring path connected to the solar cell string via a first wiring section, The slope is equipped with a toe block installed at the toe portion, which is the lower end of the slope. The toe block is arranged in parallel in the direction perpendicular to the slope to form a toe structure. The aforementioned slope toe structure is positioned adjacent to the multiple solar cell units located at the lowest level, The toe structure has a first passage portion extending in the direction perpendicular to the inclination, and a plurality of first holes that open on the side of the toe structure on the solar cell string side and lead to the first passage portion. Each of the first holes is formed at a position corresponding to the solar cell string in each of the unit rows, The first wiring path is routed through the first passage section. A solar power generation system through which the first wiring section is passed through each of the first holes.

2. The solar power generation system according to claim 1, wherein the toe structure has a plurality of first spaces formed for each of the first holes, which are concave spaces that open the first passage to the outside and through which the first hole passes.

3. The slope is equipped with a slope shoulder block installed at the slope shoulder, which is the upper end of the slope. The slope shoulder structure is formed by arranging multiple slope shoulder blocks in parallel in the direction perpendicular to the slope, The aforementioned slope shoulder structure is positioned adjacent to the multiple solar cell units located at the uppermost level, The aforementioned slope shoulder structure has a second passage portion formed inside it that extends in the direction perpendicular to the inclination. The photovoltaic power generation system according to claim 1, wherein a second wiring path is provided through the second passage, each connected to the solar cell string of each unit row.

4. A second wiring section is provided for each solar cell string in each unit row, connecting the solar cell string to the second wiring path section. The solar power generation system according to claim 3, wherein the slope shoulder structure has a plurality of second holes through which each of the second wiring sections passes.

5. Each of the aforementioned second holes is open on the side surface of the slope shoulder structure on the solar cell string side, The solar power generation system according to claim 4, wherein the slope shoulder structure has a plurality of concave spaces formed for each second hole, which are concave spaces that open the second passage to the outside and through which the second hole passes.

6. The solar power generation system according to any one of claims 1 to 5, wherein in each row of units, at the opposing portions where adjacent slope blocks of solar cell units in the inclined direction face each other, one of the slope blocks is provided with a recess that opens toward the other slope block, and the other slope block is provided with a protrusion that projects toward the one slope block and fits into the recess.

7. A solar power generation system according to any one of claims 1 to 5, comprising a weed control sheet provided across the lower surface of each slope block of adjacent solar cell units and interposed between each of those slope blocks and the slope.

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