Folding solar panel

Abstract

The utility model provides a folding solar panel which comprises at least two power generation panel units. The connecting piece is used for connecting two adjacent power generation panel units to form a foldable structure; and the heating piece is arranged on the connecting piece and used for heating the connecting piece. According to the folding solar panel provided by the utility model, the heating piece can heat the connecting piece, so as to prevent the material of the connecting piece from losing the flexibility due to the reduction of the ambient temperature, and ensure that the connecting piece can recover the flexibility in a low-temperature environment, thereby ensuring that the folding solar panel can be smoothly opened and closed in the low-temperature environment.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This utility model relates to the field of solar cell technology, and more specifically, to a foldable solar panel. Background Technology

[0002] With the rise of the camping economy, the demand for portable outdoor power supplies and foldable solar panels is increasing. Foldable solar panels, in particular, offer excellent portability due to their ability to be folded up when not in use. However, in cold regions, the materials of photovoltaic modules lose flexibility as the ambient temperature decreases, making them difficult to fold or unfold, thus limiting the use of foldable solar panels in low-temperature environments.

[0003] Therefore, designing a solar panel that can be smoothly unfolded and folded in low-temperature environments has become an urgent problem to be solved. Utility Model Content

[0004] The present invention aims to at least solve the problem that solar panels cannot be deployed and used normally in low-temperature environments in the prior art or related technologies.

[0005] Therefore, this utility model provides a foldable solar panel.

[0006] To achieve the above objectives, this utility model provides a foldable solar panel, comprising at least two power generation panel units; a connector for connecting two adjacent power generation panel units to form a foldable structure; and a heating element disposed on the connector for heating the connector.

[0007] The foldable solar panel provided by this utility model includes at least two power generation panel units. Adjacent power generation panel units are connected by a connector to form a foldable structure, allowing adjacent power generation panel units to be folded or unfolded around the connector. Simultaneously, this application includes a heating element to heat the connector, preventing the connector material from losing flexibility due to lower ambient temperatures. This ensures the connector can regain its flexibility in low-temperature environments, thereby guaranteeing that the foldable solar panel can be smoothly opened and closed in low-temperature conditions.

[0008] In addition, the foldable solar panel provided in this application may also have the following additional technical features:

[0009] In some embodiments, the power generation unit may optionally include: a battery string layer comprising a plurality of solar cells connected in series, the battery string layer being connected to a heating element to supply power to the heating element.

[0010] In this embodiment, the solar cells can convert solar energy into electrical energy and use the battery strings to power electrical devices. Simultaneously, the heating element can be powered by the battery strings in the power generation unit; that is, the foldable solar panel itself generates electricity to heat the heating element, eliminating the need for an additional power source. This simplifies the overall structure of the foldable solar panel and reduces costs.

[0011] In some embodiments, the foldable solar panel may optionally include a switch disposed between the battery string layer and the heating element for controlling the on / off connection between the battery string layer and the heating element.

[0012] In this embodiment, a switch is provided between the battery string layer and the heating element in each power generation unit, so as to control the timing of power supply from the battery string layer to the heating element by opening and closing the switch. In this way, the battery string layer does not need to continuously supply power to the heating element, thereby reducing unnecessary power waste.

[0013] In some embodiments, the switch may optionally include: a manual switch, mounted on the generator unit or connector, for controlling the on / off connection between the battery string layer and the heating element; and / or a thermal switch, disposed on the heating element, for monitoring the temperature of the connector and controlling the on / off connection between the battery string layer and the heating element based on the monitored temperature value; wherein the manual switch and / or the thermal switch are connected in series between the battery string layer and the heating element.

[0014] In this embodiment, a manual switch allows the user to manually control whether the heating element is heating. When the heating element does not need to be heated, the user can turn off the manual switch to save power for the power generation unit. For example, when the foldable solar panel is in the unfolded state and will not be folded for a long time, even if the temperature of the connector is low, there is no need to supply power to the heating element, and the user can turn off the manual switch at this time. A thermal switch is installed on the heating element, located above it, to monitor the temperature of the connector. When the heating element heats the connector to a predetermined temperature, which can be understood as the temperature at which the connector remains flexible, the thermal switch will automatically turn off, thereby avoiding unnecessary power waste caused by the continuous rise in temperature. In this application, by connecting the manual switch and the thermal switch in series between the battery string layer and the heating element, the heating element is controlled by both the manual switch and the thermal switch. When the switch is manually turned off or the temperature of the bending area reaches a predetermined temperature at which it can be opened and closed, power supply to the heating element will be stopped to save power.

[0015] In some embodiments, the battery strings in two adjacent power generation units are optionally connected in parallel, and the positive electrode of the battery strings in two adjacent power generation units is connected to one end of the heating element, and the negative electrode of the battery strings in two adjacent power generation units is connected to the other end of the heating element.

[0016] In this embodiment, the battery strings in the two connected power generation units are arranged in parallel, meaning that each battery string can independently supply power to the connector. This ensures that when the solar panel is folded, the heating function can be activated when either battery string is exposed to sunlight, guaranteeing that the solar panel can still heat up even when folded.

[0017] Furthermore, the positive terminals of the battery strings in two adjacent power generation units are connected to the same end of the heating element, and the negative terminals of the battery strings in two adjacent power generation units are connected to the other end of the heating element. This ensures that the electrical energy generated by the battery strings can be effectively transferred to the heating element, ensuring that the heating element works normally and preventing damage to the heating element caused by the opposite direction of the input current when two power generation units supply power to the heating element at the same time.

[0018] In some embodiments, the power generation unit may optionally further include a diode disposed between the battery string layer and the heating element; wherein the anode of the diode is connected to the battery string layer and the cathode of the diode is connected to the heating element.

[0019] In this embodiment, when the foldable solar panel is folded, only one of two adjacent power generation units has its battery string facing the sun, meaning only one power generation unit can supply power to the heating element. By incorporating a diode, current can only flow from the positive terminal of the battery string, through the diode's anode, and from the diode's cathode to the heating element. This effectively prevents current from flowing in reverse within the battery string; that is, the battery string on the power generation side will not flow into the connected battery string, thus preventing the battery string on the non-power generation side from consuming the power of the battery string on the power generation side.

[0020] In some embodiments, preferably, the heating element is a flexible heating film.

[0021] In this embodiment, the flexible heating film has high electrothermal conversion efficiency, converting most of the electrical energy into heat energy, thereby saving power in the battery stack. Simultaneously, since the connector itself is a flexible component, using a flexible heating film as the heating element avoids affecting the flexibility of the connector.

[0022] In some embodiments, the flexible heating film may optionally include one of a metal wire heating film, a carbon heating film, a silicone heating film, and a PTC heating film.

[0023] In this embodiment, the flexible heating film is preferably a PTC (Positive Temperature Coefficient) heating film. A PTC heating film has a positive temperature coefficient, meaning its resistance increases with increasing temperature. When heated to a predetermined temperature, the increased resistance causes the current to automatically decrease, thus achieving automatic temperature control and reducing unnecessary energy consumption.

[0024] Of course, depending on the application scenario, you can also choose a metal wire heating film, a carbon heating film, or a silicone heating film.

[0025] In some embodiments, the connector may optionally be a flexible element.

[0026] In this embodiment, due to the good flexibility and elasticity of the flexible component, it is less affected when the foldable solar panel is frequently folded or unfolded, thereby reducing the probability of damage to the connector. Simultaneously, when stress is generated in the solar panel unit, the flexible component, through its own deformation and adjustment, evenly distributes the stress across the entire solar panel unit structure, avoiding stress concentration in a localized area, thus effectively preventing damage such as cracking of the solar panel unit due to excessive stress.

[0027] In some embodiments, the power generation unit may optionally include: a front panel disposed on one side of the battery string layer; a fiberglass layer disposed between the battery string layer and the front panel; a front film disposed on the side of the front panel away from the battery string layer; a back panel disposed on the other side of the battery string layer; and a rear film disposed on the side of the back panel away from the battery string layer.

[0028] In this embodiment, a front film is provided on the side of the front panel away from the battery string layer, and a rear film is provided on the side of the back panel away from the battery string layer, so that the entire power generation unit can be protected by the front and rear films. Simultaneously, a fiberglass layer is provided between the battery string layer and the front panel. Because the fiberglass layer maintains high strength and mechanical properties in low-temperature environments and also has a stress-dispersing effect, it provides support and protection for the power generation unit in low-temperature environments.

[0029] In some embodiments, the front panel may optionally comprise a PET (Polyethylene Terephthalate) sheet.

[0030] In some embodiments, the front membrane may optionally include a fluorinated membrane material, which may include one or a combination of the following: PVDF (Polyvinylidene Fluoride) membrane material, PVF (Polyvinyl fluoride) membrane material, and ETFE (Ethylene Tetra Fluoro Ethylene) membrane material.

[0031] In some embodiments, the backsheet may optionally comprise a PET sheet.

[0032] In some embodiments, the back membrane may optionally include a fluorinated membrane material, which may include one or a combination of the following: PVDF membrane material, PVF membrane and ETFE membrane material.

[0033] In some embodiments, the fiberglass layer may optionally include a fiberglass composite resin layer.

[0034] In some embodiments, the connector may optionally include: a first connector located between the front membranes of two adjacent power generation units and integrally formed with the front membranes of the two adjacent power generation units; and / or a second connector located between the rear membranes of two adjacent power generation units and integrally formed with the rear membranes of the two adjacent power generation units.

[0035] In this embodiment, two adjacent solar panel units are connected by connectors. The first connector is located between the front films of adjacent solar panel units and is an integral structure, while the second connector is located between the rear films and is also an integral structure. This integral connection method significantly enhances the stability of the connection between adjacent solar panel units compared to traditional splicing methods, while also simplifying the production process. Furthermore, the front and rear films are connected to each other by integral connectors, making the entire solar panel a more compact whole. This integral design helps to evenly distribute external forces and reduce the risk of damage caused by localized stress concentration.

[0036] In some embodiments, optionally, the heating element is disposed between the front diaphragm and the front plate along the thickness direction of the power generation unit.

[0037] In this embodiment, by placing the heating element inside the power generation unit, a better heating effect can be achieved for the connector, and the power generation unit can also be used to protect the heating element.

[0038] In some embodiments, the power generation unit may optionally further include: a first encapsulating film disposed between the front film and the heating element; and / or a second encapsulating film disposed between the heating element and the front panel; and / or a third encapsulating film disposed between the front panel and the fiberglass layer; and / or a fourth encapsulating film disposed between the battery string layer and the back panel; and / or a fifth encapsulating film disposed between the back panel and the rear film.

[0039] In this embodiment, a first encapsulating film, a second encapsulating film, a third encapsulating film, a fourth encapsulating film, and a fifth encapsulating film are respectively provided between the front film and the heating element, between the heating element and the front plate, between the front plate and the fiberglass layer, between the battery string layer and the back plate, and between the back plate and the rear film, so as to facilitate the interconnection between the front film, the heating element, the front plate, the fiberglass layer, the back plate, and the rear film.

[0040] In some embodiments, optionally, the first encapsulating film, the second encapsulating film, the third encapsulating film, the fourth encapsulating film, and the fifth encapsulating film include one or a combination of the following: POE (Polyolefin Elastomer) film, EVA (Ethylene-vinyl Acetate copolymer) film, and EPE (co-extruded film composed of EVA / POE / EVA) film.

[0041] In some embodiments, optionally, along the length direction of the power generation unit, the lengths of the front film, the fiberglass layer, and the rear film are all greater than the length of the battery string layer, and the portions of the front film, the fiberglass layer, and the rear film that exceed the length of the battery string layer form a handle area; the portions of the front film, the fiberglass layer, and the rear film located in the handle area are provided with through holes; a manual switch is installed in the handle area.

[0042] In this embodiment, a handle area is constructed using the solar panel unit, and a through hole is provided in the handle area to allow a hand to pass through and grip the solar panel, making it convenient for the user to carry the solar panel. Furthermore, a manual switch is installed in the handle area, allowing the user to easily control the switch while carrying the solar panel.

[0043] In some embodiments, the foldable solar panel may optionally include a power supply interface disposed in the handle area, the power supply interface being connected to the battery string layer to supply power to the electrical device.

[0044] In this embodiment, the battery string layer in the power generation unit can not only power the heating element, but also power external electrical equipment through the power supply interface located in the handle area.

[0045] Additional aspects and advantages of this invention will become apparent in the description that follows, or may be learned by practice of this invention. Attached Figure Description

[0046] The above and / or additional aspects and advantages of this utility model will become apparent and readily understood from the description of the embodiments taken in conjunction with the following drawings, in which:

[0047] Figure 1 A schematic diagram of a foldable solar panel in an unfolded state, according to an embodiment of the present invention, is shown.

[0048] Figure 2 A schematic diagram of the cross-sectional structure of a foldable solar panel according to an embodiment of the present invention is shown;

[0049] Figure 3 A schematic diagram of a foldable solar panel circuit according to an embodiment of the present invention is shown;

[0050] Figure 4 A schematic diagram of a foldable solar panel in a folded state according to an embodiment of the present invention is shown.

[0051] in, Figures 1 to 4 The correspondence between the reference numerals and component names in the attached drawings is as follows:

[0052] 10. Power generation panel unit; 101. Front film; 102. First encapsulating film; 103. Second encapsulating film; 104. Front panel; 105. Third encapsulating film; 106. Fiberglass layer; 107. Battery string layer; 1072. Solar cell; 108. Fourth encapsulating film; 109. Back panel; 110. Fifth encapsulating film; 111. Rear film; 112. Diode; 113. Handle area; 114. Through hole; 115. Power supply interface; 20. Connector; 201. First connector; 202. Second connector; 30. Heating element; 40. Switch; 402. Manual switch; 404. Thermal switch. Detailed Implementation

[0053] To better understand the above-mentioned objectives, features, and advantages of this utility model, the present utility model will be further described in detail below with reference to the accompanying drawings and specific embodiments. It should be noted that, unless otherwise specified, the embodiments and features described in these embodiments can be combined with each other.

[0054] Many specific details are set forth in the following description in order to provide a full understanding of the present invention. However, the present invention may also be implemented in other ways different from those described herein. Therefore, the scope of protection of the present invention is not limited to the specific embodiments disclosed below.

[0055] The following reference Figures 1 to 4 This application describes a foldable solar panel proposed according to some embodiments.

[0056] According to an embodiment of the first aspect of the present invention, such as Figure 1 and Figure 2 As shown, a foldable solar panel includes at least two power generation panel units 10; a connector 20 for connecting two adjacent power generation panel units 10 to form a foldable structure; and a heating element 30 disposed on the connector 20 for heating the connector 20.

[0057] The foldable solar panel provided by this utility model includes at least two power generation panel units 10. Adjacent power generation panel units 10 are connected by a connector 20 to form a foldable structure, allowing adjacent power generation panel units 10 to be folded or unfolded around the connector 20. Simultaneously, this application provides a heating element 30 to heat the connector 20, preventing the connector 20 material from losing flexibility due to lower ambient temperatures, ensuring that the connector 20 can regain its flexibility in low-temperature environments, thereby guaranteeing that the foldable solar panel can be smoothly opened and closed in low-temperature environments.

[0058] In some embodiments, optionally, such as Figure 1 and Figure 3 As shown, the power generation unit 10 includes a battery string layer 107, which includes a plurality of solar cells 1072 connected in series. The battery string layer 107 is connected to the heating element 30 to supply power to the heating element 30.

[0059] In this embodiment, the solar cell 1072 can convert solar energy into electrical energy and use the battery string layer 107 to power electrical devices. At the same time, the heating element 30 can be powered by the battery string layer 107 in the power generation unit 10, that is, the foldable solar panel generates its own electricity to heat the heating element 30, thereby eliminating the need for an additional power source, simplifying the overall structure of the foldable solar panel and reducing costs.

[0060] In some embodiments, optionally, such as Figure 3 As shown, the foldable solar panel also includes a switch 40, located between the battery string layer 107 and the heating element 30, for controlling the on / off state between the battery string layer 107 and the heating element 30.

[0061] In this embodiment, a switch 40 is provided between the battery string layer 107 and the heating element 30 in each power generation unit 10, so as to control the timing of power supply from the battery string layer 107 to the heating element 30 by opening and closing the switch 40. In this way, the battery string layer 107 does not need to continuously supply power to the heating element 30, thereby reducing unnecessary power waste.

[0062] In some embodiments, optionally, such as Figure 3As shown, switch 40 includes: a manual switch 402, mounted on the generator unit 10 or connector 20, for controlling the on / off connection between the battery string layer 107 and the heating element 30; and / or a thermal switch 404, disposed on the heating element 30, for monitoring the temperature of the connector 20 and controlling the on / off connection between the battery string layer 107 and the heating element 30 according to the monitored temperature value; wherein, the manual switch 402 and / or the thermal switch 404 are connected in series between the battery string layer 107 and the heating element 30.

[0063] In this embodiment, the manual switch 402 allows the user to manually control whether the heating element 30 heats up. When the heating element 30 does not need to be heated, the user can turn off the manual switch 402 to save electricity for the power generation unit 10. For example, when the foldable solar panel is in the unfolded state and will not be folded for a long time, even if the temperature of the connector 20 is low, there is no need to supply power to the heating element 30, and the user can turn off the manual switch 402 at this time. The thermal switch 404 is installed on the heating element 30, located above the heating element 30, and is used to monitor the temperature of the connector 20. When the heating element 30 heats the connector 20 to a predetermined temperature, which can be understood as the temperature at which the connector 20 maintains its flexibility, the thermal switch 404 will automatically turn off, thereby avoiding unnecessary power waste caused by the continuous rise in temperature. In this application, by connecting the manual switch 402 and the thermal switch 404 in series between the battery string layer 107 and the heating element 30, the heating element 30 is simultaneously controlled by the manual switch 402 and the thermal switch 404. When the switch is manually closed or the temperature of the bending area reaches the predetermined temperature at which it can be opened and closed, the power supply to the heating element 30 will be stopped to save power.

[0064] In some embodiments, optionally, such as Figure 3 As shown, the battery string layers 107 in two adjacent power generation plate units 10 are connected in parallel, and the positive electrode of the battery string layer 107 in two adjacent power generation plate units 10 is connected to one end of the heating element 30, and the negative electrode of the battery string layer 107 in two adjacent power generation plate units 10 is connected to the other end of the heating element 30.

[0065] In this embodiment, the battery string layers 107 in the two connected power generation panel units 10 are arranged in parallel, meaning that each battery string layer 107 can independently supply power to the connector 20. In this way, when the solar panel is in a folded state, the heating function can be activated when either side of the battery string layer 107 generates electricity under sunlight, ensuring that the solar panel can achieve heating even in a folded state.

[0066] Furthermore, the positive terminals of the battery string layers 107 in two adjacent power generation units 10 are connected to the same end of the heating element 30, and the negative terminals of the battery string layers 107 in two adjacent power generation units 10 are connected to the other end of the heating element 30. This ensures that the electrical energy generated by the battery string layers 107 can be effectively transferred to the heating element 30, ensuring that the heating element 30 works normally and preventing damage to the heating element 30 caused by the opposite direction of the input current when the two power generation units 10 supply power to the heating element 30 at the same time.

[0067] In some embodiments, optionally, such as Figure 3 and Figure 4 As shown, the power generation unit 10 also includes a diode 112, which is disposed between the battery string layer 107 and the heating element 30; wherein, the anode of the diode 112 is connected to the battery string layer 107, and the cathode of the diode 112 is connected to the heating element 30.

[0068] In this embodiment, when the foldable solar panel is in a folded state, only one of the two adjacent power generation unit 10 has its battery string layer 107 facing the sun, meaning only one power generation unit 10 can supply power to the heating element 30. By setting up the diode 112, the current can only flow from the positive terminal of the battery string layer 107, then through the anode of the diode 112, and finally from the cathode of the diode 112 to the heating element 30. This effectively prevents the current from flowing in reverse in the battery string layer 107, meaning that the battery string layer 107 on the power generation side will not flow into the connected battery string layer 107, thereby preventing the battery string layer 107 on the non-power generation side from consuming the power of the battery string layer 107 on the power generation side.

[0069] In some embodiments, preferably, the heating element 30 is a flexible heating film.

[0070] In this embodiment, the flexible heating film has high electrothermal conversion efficiency, converting most of the electrical energy into heat energy, thereby saving power in the battery string layer 107. Meanwhile, since the connector 20 itself is a flexible component, setting the heating element 30 as a flexible heating film avoids the heating element 30 affecting the flexibility of the connector 20.

[0071] In some embodiments, the flexible heating film may optionally include one of a metal wire heating film, a carbon heating film, a silicone heating film, and a PTC heating film.

[0072] In this embodiment, the flexible heating film is preferably a PTC (Positive Temperature Coefficient) heating film. A PTC heating film has a positive temperature coefficient, meaning its resistance increases with increasing temperature. When heated to a predetermined temperature, the increased resistance causes the current to automatically decrease, thus achieving automatic temperature control and reducing unnecessary energy consumption.

[0073] Of course, depending on the application scenario, you can also choose a metal wire heating film, a carbon heating film, or a silicone heating film.

[0074] In some embodiments, the connector 20 may optionally be a flexible element.

[0075] In this embodiment, due to the good flexibility and elasticity of the flexible component, it is less affected when the foldable solar panel is frequently folded or unfolded, thereby reducing the probability of damage to the connector 20. Simultaneously, when stress is generated in the power generation unit 10, the flexible component, through its own deformation and adjustment, evenly distributes the stress across the entire structure of the power generation unit 10, avoiding stress concentration in a localized area, thus effectively preventing damage such as cracking of the power generation unit 10 due to excessive stress.

[0076] In some embodiments, optionally, such as Figure 2 As shown, the power generation unit 10 further includes: a front panel 104 disposed on one side of the battery string layer 107; a fiberglass layer 106 disposed between the battery string layer 107 and the front panel 104; a front film 101 disposed on the side of the front panel 104 away from the battery string layer 107; a back panel 109 disposed on the other side of the battery string layer 107; and a rear film 111 disposed on the side of the back panel 109 away from the battery string layer 107.

[0077] In this embodiment, a front film 101 is provided on the side of the front panel 104 away from the battery string layer 107, and a rear film 111 is provided on the side of the back panel 109 away from the battery string layer 107, so that the entire power generation unit 10 is protected by the front film 101 and the rear film 111. At the same time, a fiberglass layer 106 is also provided between the battery string layer 107 and the front panel 104. Since the fiberglass layer 106 can maintain high strength and mechanical properties in low-temperature environments and also has a stress-dispersing effect, the fiberglass layer 106 is used to achieve the function of supporting and protecting the power generation unit 10 in low-temperature environments.

[0078] In some embodiments, the front panel 104 may optionally comprise a PET (Polyethylene Terephthalate) sheet.

[0079] In some embodiments, the front membrane 101 may optionally include a fluorinated membrane material, which includes one or a combination of the following: PVDF (Polyvinylidene Fluoride) membrane material, PVF (Polyvinyl fluoride) membrane material, and ETFE (Ethylene Tetra Fluoro Ethylene) membrane material.

[0080] In some embodiments, the back panel 109 may optionally include a PET sheet.

[0081] In some embodiments, the back membrane 111 may optionally include a fluorinated membrane material, which may include one or a combination of the following: PVDF membrane material, PVF membrane and ETFE membrane material.

[0082] In some embodiments, the fiberglass layer 106 may optionally include a fiberglass composite resin layer.

[0083] In some embodiments, optionally, such as Figure 2 As shown, the connector 20 includes: a first connector 201 located between the front membranes 101 of two adjacent power generation units 10, and having an integral structure with the front membranes 101 of the two adjacent power generation units 10; and / or a second connector 202 located between the rear membranes 111 of two adjacent power generation units 10, and having an integral structure with the rear membranes 111 of the two adjacent power generation units 10.

[0084] In this embodiment, two adjacent solar panel units 10 are connected by connectors 20. The first connector 201 is located between the front films 101 of adjacent solar panel units 10 and is an integral structure. The second connector 202 is located between the rear films 111 and is also an integral structure. This integral connection method significantly enhances the connection stability between adjacent solar panel units 10 compared to traditional splicing methods, while also simplifying the production process. Furthermore, the front films 101 and rear films 111 are interconnected by the integral connectors 20, making the entire solar panel a more compact whole. This integral design helps to evenly distribute external forces and reduce the risk of damage caused by localized stress concentration.

[0085] In some embodiments, the connector 20 may optionally include: a third connector 20 located between the first encapsulation films 102 of two adjacent power generation units 10, and having an integral structure with the first encapsulation films 102 of the two adjacent power generation units 10; and / or a fourth connector 20 located between the fifth encapsulation films 110 of two adjacent power generation units 10, and having an integral structure with the fifth encapsulation films 110 of the two adjacent power generation units 10.

[0086] In some embodiments, optionally, such as Figure 2 As shown, along the thickness direction of the power generation unit 10, the heating element 30 is disposed between the front membrane 101 and the front plate 104.

[0087] In this embodiment, by placing the heating element 30 inside the power generation unit 10, a better heating effect can be achieved for the connector 20, and the power generation unit 10 can also protect the heating element 30.

[0088] In some embodiments, optionally, such as Figure 2 As shown, the power generation unit 10 further includes: a first encapsulating film 102 disposed between the front film 101 and the heating element 30; and / or a second encapsulating film 103 disposed between the heating element 30 and the front plate 104; and / or a third encapsulating film 105 disposed between the front plate 104 and the fiberglass layer 106; and / or a fourth encapsulating film 108 disposed between the battery string layer 107 and the back plate 109; and / or a fifth encapsulating film 110 disposed between the back plate 109 and the rear film 111.

[0089] In this embodiment, a first encapsulating film 102, a second encapsulating film 103, a third encapsulating film 105, a fourth encapsulating film 108, and a fifth encapsulating film 110 are respectively provided between the front film 101 and the heating element 30, between the heating element 30 and the front plate 104, between the front plate 104 and the fiberglass layer 106, between the battery string layer 107 and the back plate 109, and between the back plate 109 and the rear film 111, so as to facilitate the interconnection between the front film 101, the heating element 30, the front plate 104, the fiberglass layer 106, the back plate 109, and the rear film 111.

[0090] In some embodiments, optionally, the first encapsulating film 102, the second encapsulating film 103, the third encapsulating film 105, the fourth encapsulating film 108 and the fifth encapsulating film 110 include one or a combination of the following: POE (Polyolefin Elastomer) film, EVA (Ethylene-vinyl Acetate copolymer) film and EPE (co-extruded film composed of EVA / POE / EVA) film.

[0091] In some embodiments, optionally, such as Figure 1 and Figure 2As shown, along the length of the power generation unit 10, the lengths of the front membrane 101, the fiberglass layer 106, and the rear membrane 111 are all greater than the length of the battery string layer 107. The portions of the front membrane 101, the fiberglass layer 106, and the rear membrane 111 that exceed the length of the battery string layer 107 form a handle area 113. The portions of the front membrane 101, the fiberglass layer 106, and the rear membrane 111 located in the handle area 113 are provided with through holes 114. A manual switch 402 is installed in the handle area 113.

[0092] In this embodiment, a handle area 113 is constructed using the power generation unit 10, and a through hole 114 is provided in the handle area 113, allowing a person's hand to pass through and hold the solar panel, making it convenient for the person to carry the solar panel. Furthermore, a manual switch 402 is installed in the handle area 113, allowing the user to easily control the manual switch 402 while carrying the solar panel. Figure 2 The front membrane 101, the glass fiber layer 106, and the rear membrane 111 are located on the side away from the heating element 30, and the portion extending beyond the battery string layer 107 forms the handle area 113.

[0093] In some embodiments, optionally, such as Figure 1 As shown, the foldable solar panel also includes a power supply interface 115, which is located in the handle area 113. The power supply interface 115 is connected to the battery string layer 107 to supply power to the electrical equipment through the power supply interface 115.

[0094] In this embodiment, the battery string layer 107 in the power generation unit 10 can not only power the heating element 30, but also power external electrical equipment through the power supply interface 115 provided in the handle area 113.

[0095] The foldable solar panel of this application will be further described below with reference to a specific embodiment.

[0096] Portable photovoltaic (PV) modules are widely popular as a clean and renewable energy solution for outdoor activities such as camping, hiking, and exploration. Foldable PV modules, in particular, offer excellent portability due to their ability to be folded up when not in use. However, in cold regions, the materials of PV modules lose flexibility as the ambient temperature decreases, making them difficult to fold. To address this issue, this application proposes a foldable solar panel suitable for cold regions.

[0097] A heating device (heating element 30) is added to the bending area of ​​the foldable solar panel (the area where the connector 20 is located) to prevent the material in the bending area from losing its flexibility as the ambient temperature decreases. The heating device is powered by the foldable solar panel itself without using an external power supply. The heating device is equipped with a manual switch 402 and a temperature control switch (thermal switch 404) for joint control to prevent power waste.

[0098] like Figure 1 As shown, Figure 1 The unfolded state of the foldable solar panel (hereinafter referred to as the module) includes a handle (handle area 113), a battery string (battery string layer 107), and a flexible heating film (heating element 30). The handle comprises three parts: an interface (power supply interface 115), a manual switch 402, and a through hole 114. The interface is responsible for power output from the module, the manual switch 402 allows manual control of whether the flexible heating film is heated, and the through hole 114 allows a hand to pass through and grip the module, facilitating its carrying. The battery string is encapsulated inside the module and can supply power to the outside environment or to the flexible heating film after receiving sunlight. The flexible heating film is also encapsulated inside the module and, when energized, heats the material in the module's bending area, restoring its flexibility and allowing the module to open and close smoothly.

[0099] like Figure 2 As shown, the module, from bottom to top, consists of: a back film 111 (PVDF film material), a fifth encapsulating film 110 (EVA film), a backsheet 109 (PET board), a fourth encapsulating film 108 (EVA film), a battery string layer 107, a fiberglass frame (fiberglass layer 106), a third encapsulating film 105 (EVA film), a front panel 104 (PET board), a second encapsulating film 103 (EVA film), a heating film (heating element 30), a first encapsulating film 102 (EVA film), and a front film 101 (PVDF film material). The battery string layer 107 is the module's power generation area, which generates electricity when exposed to sunlight. The fiberglass frame is located outside the battery string layer 107, protecting it. The portion of the fiberglass frame extending beyond the battery string layer 107 forms the handle area 113. The area between two battery string layers 107 is the bending area; because this area only contains flexible material, it can be bent freely, giving the module a folding function. The heating film is located in the bending area. When the ambient temperature drops, the heating film is activated to prevent the bending area from losing flexibility due to temperature decrease, thus affecting the normal folding and opening of the module. Optionally, the EVA film (first encapsulating film 102, second encapsulating film 103, third encapsulating film 105, fourth encapsulating film 108, and fifth encapsulating film 110) in the module material can be replaced with POE to provide better low-temperature resistance and impact resistance. Optional materials for the heating film include metal wire heating film, carbon heating film, and silicone heating film. The preferred material is PTC heating film, which, due to its negative temperature coefficient, automatically reduces the current after heating to the target temperature, achieving an automatic control effect.

[0100] Figure 3The circuit diagram shows two battery strings 107 connected in parallel. Two diodes 112 are connected in series with each of the two battery strings 107. When the module is unfolded, both battery strings 107 can face the sun to generate electricity, simultaneously supplying power to the flexible heating film and the external environment. When the module is folded, only one of the battery strings 107 faces the sun; one string generates electricity while the other does not. To prevent the non-generating battery string 107 from consuming the generating battery string 107, diodes 112 are added to prevent reverse current flow in the battery string 107. The flexible heating film is connected in parallel with the two battery strings 107. When either battery string 107 is exposed to sunlight, the heating function can be activated, ensuring that the module can achieve heating even in the folded state. The flexible heating film is controlled by both a manual switch 402 and a thermal switch 404. These two switches are connected in series; that is, power to the heating film will stop when the switch is manually closed or when the temperature of the bending area reaches a predetermined temperature for opening and closing, thus saving energy. The thermal switch 404 is encapsulated inside the module and located above the flexible heating film. It monitors the temperature of the module's bending area. When the flexible heating film heats the bending area to the predetermined temperature, the thermal switch 404 will disconnect. The manual switch 402 is integrated into the module's handle area 113, allowing for manual opening and closing. It can be manually disconnected when the module does not require heating to save energy.

[0101] Figure 4 In the folded state of the module, it can be directly unfolded to generate electricity when the temperature is normal. When the temperature is too low, the manual switch 402 is closed and one side of the module faces the sun. At this time, both the manual switch 402 and the thermal switch 404 are closed, and one battery string 107 faces the sun to start generating electricity. The flexible heating film uses the electricity generated by the battery string 107 to start heating. When the predetermined temperature is reached, the thermal switch 404 is opened, and the flexible heating film stops heating. At this time, the module can be unfolded smoothly to generate electricity. After the module is unfolded, you can choose to keep the manual switch 402 closed to prevent the bending area from hardening after heating stops, which would affect the folding of the module. If the module will not be folded for a long time after unfolding, you can also choose to open the manual switch 402 to prevent the thermal switch 404 from closing when the temperature of the bending area drops, thus wasting electricity. Close the manual switch 402 to heat before folding. After the module is used up and folded, close the manual switch 402.

[0102] The foldable solar panel provided by this utility model has the following advantages:

[0103] 1. The component is designed for use in cold regions due to its heating function.

[0104] 2. The components can generate electricity and heat themselves without the need for additional power supply.

[0105] 3. The module is a double-sided module, which can use the power generated on the back to heat itself when the module is in the folded state, so that it can be unfolded smoothly.

[0106] 4. The components adopt an integrated laminated structure, which has better waterproof performance and a simpler structure.

[0107] In the description of this utility model, the term "multiple" refers to two or more. Unless otherwise explicitly defined, the terms "upper," "lower," etc., indicate the orientation or positional relationship based on the orientation or positional relationship shown in the accompanying drawings, and are only for the convenience of describing this utility model and simplifying the description, and do not indicate or imply that the device or element referred to must have a specific orientation, or be constructed and operated in a specific orientation, and therefore should not be construed as a limitation of this utility model. The terms "connection," "installation," "fixing," etc., should be interpreted broadly. For example, "connection" can be a fixed connection, a detachable connection, or an integral connection; it can be a direct connection or an indirect connection through an intermediate medium. For those skilled in the art, the specific meaning of the above terms in this utility model can be understood according to the specific circumstances.

[0108] In the description of this utility model, the terms "one embodiment," "some embodiments," "specific embodiment," etc., refer to a specific feature, structure, material, or characteristic described in connection with that embodiment or example, which is included in at least one embodiment or example of this utility model. In this utility model, the illustrative expressions of the above terms do not necessarily refer to the same embodiment or example. Furthermore, the specific features, structures, materials, or characteristics described may be combined in any suitable manner in one or more embodiments or examples.

[0109] The above are merely preferred embodiments of this utility model and are not intended to limit the scope of this utility model. Various modifications and variations can be made to this utility model by those skilled in the art. Any modifications, equivalent substitutions, or improvements made within the spirit and principles of this utility model should be included within the protection scope of this utility model.

Claims

1. A foldable solar panel, characterized in that, The folding solar panel comprises: at least two power generation plate units; a connecting piece for connecting two adjacent power generation plate units to form a foldable structure; a heating piece arranged on the connecting piece for heating the connecting piece.

2. The foldable solar panel of claim 1, wherein, The power generation plate unit comprises: a battery string layer comprising a plurality of solar cell pieces connected in series, the battery string layer being connected to the heating piece to supply power to the heating piece.

3. The foldable solar panel of claim 2, wherein, The folding solar panel further comprises: a switch arranged between the battery string layer and the heating piece for controlling the on-off between the battery string layer and the heating piece.

4. The foldable solar panel of claim 3, wherein, The switch comprises: a manual switch mounted on the power generation plate unit or the connecting piece for controlling the on-off between the battery string layer and the heating piece; and / or a thermal sensitive switch arranged on the heating piece for monitoring the temperature of the connecting piece and controlling the on-off between the battery string layer and the heating piece according to the monitored temperature value; wherein the manual switch and / or the thermal sensitive switch are connected in series between the battery string layer and the heating piece.

5. The foldable solar panel of claim 2, wherein, The battery string layers in the two adjacent power generation plate units are connected in parallel, and the positive electrode of the battery string layer in the two adjacent power generation plate units is connected to one end of the heating piece, and the negative electrode of the battery string layer in the two adjacent power generation plate units is connected to the other end of the heating piece.

6. The foldable solar panel of claim 5, wherein, The power generation plate unit further comprises: a diode arranged between the battery string layer and the heating piece; wherein the anode of the diode is connected to the battery string layer, and the cathode of the diode is connected to the heating piece.

7. The foldable solar panel according to any one of claims 1 to 6, wherein, The heating piece is a flexible heating film.

8. The foldable solar panel of claim 7, wherein, The flexible heating film comprises one of a metal wire heating film, a carbon heating film, a silica gel heating film and a PTC heating film.

9. The foldable solar panel according to any one of claims 1 to 6, wherein, The connecting piece is a flexible piece.

10. The foldable solar panel of claim 4, wherein, The power generation plate unit further comprises: a front plate arranged on one side of the battery string layer; a glass fiber layer arranged between the battery string layer and the front plate; a front film arranged on the side of the front plate away from the battery string layer; a back plate arranged on the other side of the battery string layer; a back film arranged on the side of the back plate away from the battery string layer.

11. The folding solar panel according to claim 10, wherein: the front plate comprises a PET plate; and / or the front film comprises a fluorine-containing film material, the fluorine-containing film material comprising one or a combination of PVDF film material, PVF film and ETFE film material; and / or the back plate comprises a PET plate; and / or the back film comprises a fluorine-containing film material, the fluorine-containing film material comprising one or a combination of PVDF film material, PVF film and ETFE film material; and / or the glass fiber layer comprises a glass fiber composite resin layer.

12. The foldable solar panel of claim 10, wherein, The connecting piece comprises: a first connecting piece located between the front films of the two adjacent power generation plate units and being in an integral structure with the front films of the two adjacent power generation plate units; and / or a second connecting piece located between the back films of the two adjacent power generation plate units and being in an integral structure with the back films of the two adjacent power generation plate units.

13. The foldable solar panel of any one of claims 10 to 12, wherein, In the thickness direction of the power generation plate unit, the heating piece is arranged between the front film and the front plate.

14. The foldable solar panel of claim 13, wherein, The power generation panel unit further comprises: a first encapsulation adhesive film arranged between the front film and the heating element; and / or a second encapsulation adhesive film arranged between the heating element and the front plate; and / or a third encapsulation adhesive film arranged between the front plate and the glass fiber layer; and / or a fourth encapsulation adhesive film arranged between the battery string layer and the back plate; and / or a fifth encapsulation adhesive film arranged between the back plate and the rear film.

15. The foldable solar panel according to claim 14, wherein the first, second, third, fourth and fifth encapsulation adhesive films each comprise one or a combination of POE film, EVA film and EPE film.

16. The foldable solar panel according to any one of claims 10 to 12, wherein along the length direction of the power generation panel unit, the lengths of the front film, the glass fiber layer and the rear film are all greater than the length of the battery string layer, and the portions of the front film, the glass fiber layer and the rear film that exceed the length of the battery string layer form a handle area; the portions of the front film, the glass fiber layer and the rear film located in the handle area are provided with through holes; the manual switch is installed in the handle area.

17. The foldable solar panel of claim 16, wherein, The foldable solar panel further comprises: a power supply interface arranged in the handle area, the power supply interface being connected with the battery string layer to supply power to the power consuming device through the power supply interface.

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