Solar-cell module

Abstract

The invention relates to a solar-cell module having a number of module segments, the module segments having at least two sub-segments, each with at least one first solar-cell string, and each solar-cell string having a plurality of series-connected solar cells.

Description

[0001] Solar cell module

[0002] Description

[0003] The invention relates to a solar cell module according to the preamble of claim 1. Solar cells are sensitive semiconductor components. To protect them against environmental influences for long periods and to achieve manageable electrical output parameters, solar cells are typically electrically interconnected and encapsulated in a module structure.

[0004] Partial shading, in which individual solar cells are completely or partially obscured, for example, by dirt or objects casting shadows on the solar cell module, is problematic when using solar cell modules. Partial shading can, on the one hand, significantly reduce the electrical output of the entire solar cell module or even drop to zero. On the other hand, partial shading can lead to significant heating of the partially shaded solar cell, thus posing a risk of damage to the solar cell and the module structure.

[0005] It is therefore known to connect bypass diodes in parallel to several solar cells so that in the event of partial shading in a partial area of ​​the solar cell module, the solar cells in this partial area are bridged via the bypass diode.

[0006] Typically, a solar cell module therefore comprises several module segments, each module segment comprising at least one solar cell string. This solar cell string comprises several solar cells connected in series.

[0007] DE202013005357U1 and US20100012172A1 disclose different configurations of module segments of a solar cell module, with each module segment being assigned at least one bypass diode connected in parallel. WO2015 / 001413 discloses a solar cell module with multiple module segments and bypass diodes arranged centrally within the solar cell module. The previously known module layouts have the disadvantage that high power losses can occur if shading occurs along an edge of the solar cell module. The high power loss occurs in previously known module layouts because if the respective edge of the module is shaded, the bypass diodes of the affected module segment cause the module segment to be bypassed.Due to the power losses in specific shading scenarios, the flexibility of orientation is limited in previously known module layouts. Especially in solar systems, especially in solar power plants, the arrangement of solar module rows can result in shading across the solar module rows when the sun is low in the sky. This shading scenario leads to increasing one-sided shading of the solar modules, which extends from one edge of the module across parts of the module.

[0008] The present invention is based on the object of providing a module layout which has lower performance losses when shaded along an edge, in particular a short edge of a rectangular solar cell module.

[0009] This object is achieved by a solar cell module according to claim 1. Advantageous embodiments can be found in the dependent claims.

[0010] The solar cell module according to the invention comprises module segments connected in series via segment connectors. Each of the module segments comprises at least two sub-segments. The two sub-segments of the module segments are connected in series via sub-segment connectors. The sub-segments each comprise at least one first solar cell string. Each of the solar cell strings is composed of a plurality of solar cells connected in series, wherein the solar cells of the solar cell module are arranged such that the solar cell module forms a shorter edge and a longer edge.

[0011] What is important here is that the solar module has at least four module segments, wherein each module segment has at least two sub-segments that are connected in series by a sub-segment connector, wherein each of the sub-segments has a first and at least one second solar cell string. It is also important that the solar cell strings of each of the sub-segments are connected in parallel by means of an internal string connector and an external string connector. Internal here describes an arrangement in a central region on the surface area of ​​the solar module. External here describes a position at the upper or lower edge of the surface area of ​​the solar module. It is also important that the solar cell strings each have a plurality of solar cells connected in series and that the solar cell strings extend parallel to the short edge of the solar cell module.It is also essential that the at least four module segments are arranged in a matrix which has at least two rows and at least two columns, wherein each row and each column has at least two of the at least four module segments. It is essential here that in each row the sub-segments of the module segments are arranged with alternating current directions, so that in a row adjacent sub-segments have opposite current directions, wherein the sequence of the current directions of the sub-segments in the first and second rows is the same.

[0012] In contrast to previously known configurations, the solar cell module according to the invention thus has at least four module segments connected in series, each of which has at least two sub-segments, wherein in each row the sub-segments of the module segments are arranged with alternating current directions, so that in a row adjacent sub-segments have opposite current directions and the sequence of the current directions of the sub-segments in the first and second row is the same.

[0013] In the majority of state-of-the-art configurations, significant performance losses occur when shade is applied along the short edge of the module. The positioning of the module segments is crucial here.

[0014] The solar cell module according to the invention enables the module segments to be arranged such that the solar cells of the solar cell strings extend along the short edge of the module and the module segments are arranged in a matrix. This arrangement is advantageous in that, in the event of partial shading, only the individual module segments of the affected solar cells fail. Due to the arrangement in rows and columns and the inventive interconnection of the module segments, only one module segment of a row or column fails. This increases the performance in certain shading scenarios, and the yield of the entire system is potentially higher than with conventional solar module layouts.

[0015] This arrangement also reduces the risk of hotspots caused by shorter solar cell strings. Another advantage is that the voltage load on the bypass elements is reduced during bridging, resulting in lower power losses. By simply adjusting the number of solar cells per solar cell string or changing the number of parallel-connected solar cell strings per sub-segment, the module size can be flexibly designed. Another advantage of arranging the solar cell strings along the short module edges is that lower mechanical stresses occur in the solar cells when subjected to mechanical stress.

[0016] Advantageously, the matrix has exactly two rows. This offers the advantage that the segment connectors can be arranged in a common central area between the two rows.

[0017] In an advantageous embodiment, the module segments each have a bypass element. This bypass element is connected in parallel to the subsegments of a module segment. This bypass element is required because high negative voltages arise when a solar cell is shaded. This occurs when the current at the operating point of the respective cell string is higher than the short-circuit current of the shaded cell. A current flows through the bypass element and the negative voltages at the subsegments are limited, and thus also the voltage at the shaded solar cells. Thanks to this advantageous configuration, even when an entire solar cell is shaded, a residual output power of the solar cell module always remains due to the other module segments.

[0018] An advantageous embodiment results in an embodiment in which a plurality of the outer string connectors and partial segment connectors are arranged in an edge region of the solar cell module and in that a plurality of the inner string connectors and segment connectors are arranged in a central module region.

[0019] In particular, it is advantageous that all sub-segment connectors are arranged externally, in particular between an edge of the module and sub-segment.

[0020] This has the advantage that the module layout can be easily and flexibly expanded with additional module segments.

[0021] An advantageously structurally simple design results in an advantageous embodiment in which the segment connectors, which connect module segments of two adjacent rows in series, are additionally designed as the internal string connectors of the connected sub-segments of the respective module segments.

[0022] The advantage of this design is that only one element is required for connection, and this segment connector can also be accommodated within the encapsulation.

[0023] A particularly advantageous embodiment results in an embodiment in which the internal string connectors and internal segment connectors of the module segments of a first row are arranged on a first level, and the internal string connectors of a second row are arranged on a second level, which is spaced from the first level and separated from one another by an electrically non-conductive insulation layer. Preferably, the levels are arranged within the encapsulation material, in particular the internal string connectors of the second row are arranged overlapping the internal string connectors and internal segment connectors. The levels are arranged parallel to the front side.

[0024] One advantage of this design is the space-saving accommodation of the connectors, as the connectors are arranged one above the other in the interior area of ​​the solar module. This improves the area utilization and thus increases the area power density. In a further advantageous embodiment, the solar module has a plurality of contact feedthroughs. These contact feedthroughs are particularly advantageous in the previously described embodiment with the connectors arranged one above the other. The contact feedthroughs serve to contact the connectors through the planes to the rear of the solar module. The contact feedthroughs are preferably arranged centrally, in particular centrally between two module segments. Preferably for contacting the string connectors, particularly preferably for contacting the segment connectors.

[0025] One advantage of the contact feedthrough design is that it's possible to route multiple contacts through a single contact feedthrough to the back of the solar module, thus using shorter connectors, which reduces electrical series resistance losses and costs. Another advantage of the contact feedthrough design is that the sub-segments of a column can be easily connected within junction boxes.

[0026] A design particularly optimized for partial shading results from an advantageous further development in which the module segments each have a first and at least one second bypass element, which each have a first and a second pole, wherein the first pole of the first bypass element of a module segment is connected to a first pole of the first sub-segment of the module segment and the second pole of the second bypass element of the module segment is electrically conductively connected to a second pole of the second sub-segment of the module segment and the second pole of the first bypass element of the module segment and the first pole of the second bypass element of the first module segment are electrically conductively connected to the sub-segment connector of the module segment by means of a bypass connector.

[0027] In the event of shading along the short edge of the solar module, only the affected sub-segment of a module segment fails.

[0028] This increases performance in certain shading scenarios, and the yield of the entire system is potentially higher than with conventional solar module layouts. Another advantage is that this arrangement reduces the risk of hot spots due to shorter solar cell strings. Another advantage is that the voltage load on the bypass elements is reduced during bridging, resulting in lower power losses.

[0029] In a further advantageous embodiment, a plurality of bypass elements, preferably bypass elements and the segment connectors which electrically connect adjacent module segments of a column to one another, are positioned in junction boxes, in particular bypass elements which are associated with module segments which belong to the same column.

[0030] The advantage of this design lies in the efficient arrangement of the junction boxes. This keeps the element connections short and interconnects them within the solar module. This allows the connectors to be kept as short as possible and the number of junction boxes to be kept to a minimum, thus reducing costs.

[0031] Advantageously, the number of module segments in the first row corresponds to the number of module segments in the second row. This allows for simpler production of solar modules. Advantageously, the solar cell strings of a sub-segment of a module segment have the same number of solar cells. This makes it easy to ensure that all sub-segments deliver the same electrical voltage under standard conditions, preventing mismatches and thus losses due to different voltages between the individual sub-segments.

[0032] Another advantage is that the individual module segments of a solar module have the same number of solar cell strings, and the solar cell strings each have the same number of solar cells. This also makes it easy to ensure that all module segments deliver the same current under standard conditions, preventing mismatches and thus losses due to different currents in the individual module segments. Another advantage is that all bypass elements of an equal number of series-connected solar cells are connected in parallel. Therefore, identical or similar bypass elements can be used.

[0033] In an advantageous embodiment, the module segments are arranged parallel to one another and electrically connected in series at a first edge region of the solar module, in particular by means of a partial segment connector, preferably by means of a linear partial segment connector, and the module segments are electrically connected in series at a region not located at the edge of the solar module, in particular by means of segment connectors, preferably linear segment connectors. The parallel arrangement of the partial segments is advantageous because this enables ideal use of the surface area of ​​the solar cell module. Furthermore, it is advantageous that the central arrangement of the segment connectors also allows the junction boxes to be positioned centrally.

[0034] In a further advantageous embodiment, the solar module in the first row has four module segments, each of which is connected in series via segment connectors. Four module segments are also arranged in the second row, with two of the four module segments being connected in series via segment connectors. Preferably, the first two module segments of the second row and the last two module segments of the second row are connected via segment connectors, and the module segments of the first and last columns of the rows are connected in series via segment connectors.

[0035] This offers the advantage that expanding the configuration is easy to implement by simply adding additional module segments. A further advantage of this particularly advantageous design is the simple, scalable expansion of multiple module segments into a larger solar module with increased output power.

[0036] A further advantageous embodiment, which particularly leads to advantageous scalability of the solar module, has three module segments in the first row, each of which is connected in series via segment connectors. The second row also contains three module segments, with two of the three module segments connected in series via segment connectors. In this embodiment, the module segments in the first and last columns of the rows are connected in series via segment connectors.

[0037] This also offers the advantage that expanding the configuration is very easy to implement by adding additional module segments. A simple design has two module segments in the first and second rows, each connected in series via segment connectors. In this design, the module segments in the first or last column of the rows are connected in series via segment connectors.

[0038] This results in the advantage that the arrangement is very compact and, even if a solar cell is completely shaded, the solar cell module always maintains a residual output power. This residual output power exists because the unshaded module segments are not affected and continue to contribute to the output power.

[0039] Advantageously, the number of solar cells in each solar cell string is in the range of 3 to 65 solar cells.

[0040] Advantageously, solar cells with the same performance data, in particular the same voltage and current at the optimal operating point under standard conditions, are used for all sub-segments within the usual manufacturing tolerances.

[0041] Advantageously, the number of solar cell strings of the sub-segments is in the range of two to eight solar cell strings per sub-segment.

[0042] This has the advantage that a desired output current can be selected for standard lighting by selecting the appropriate number of solar cell strings for each module segment.

[0043] The bypass elements can be designed in a manner known per se; in particular, the design of the bypass elements as diodes, in particular Schottky diodes, as MOSFETs or as electronic switching devices and / or integrated circuits, in particular according to DE 102005012213 A1 and / or DE 10 2009 060 604 A1, is also within the scope of the invention.

[0044] It is within the scope of the invention that the solar cell module is constructed in a manner known per se. In particular, it is within the scope of the invention that the solar cells of the solar cell module are arranged on a carrier plate, and that a known optically transparent cover layer for encapsulating the solar cells is arranged on the side facing the incident light during use. Furthermore, electrical contacts for connecting the solar cell module in an electrical circuit, in particular for connecting it to other solar cell modules, are preferably arranged on the rear of the solar cell module.

[0045] It is within the scope of the invention to use solar cells known per se to convert incident radiation into electrical energy, in particular to use solar cells which cover more than two band gaps.

[0046] In particular, the use of partial solar cells, which are created by dividing a larger basic solar cell, in particular half or third cells, as solar cells is within the scope of the invention.

[0047] It is within the scope of the invention for the solar cells of a solar cell string to be connected in series using conventional methods. In particular, the solar cells can be arranged using a shingle technique, in particular, the solar cells can be connected using conductive adhesive or solder.

[0048] The solar cells can comprise a semiconductor material as the absorbing material and one or more pn junctions for separating the charge carriers. It is further within the scope of the invention to use solar cells based on materials from main groups III and V of the periodic table (so-called III / V solar cells) or perovskite-based solar cells, particularly in combination with other materials.

[0049] Photovoltaic solar cells, particularly photovoltaic solar cells based on a silicon substrate, are advantageously used to form the solar cell strings. This allows the use of solar cells that are already known and commercially available.

[0050] It is within the scope of the invention to use bifacial solar cells to form the solar cell strings. Such solar cells are designed to absorb light from the front and back of the solar cell. In this embodiment, the solar cell module preferably has optically transparent layers on the front and back of the solar cell module, so that radiation, in particular sunlight, from both the front and back of the solar cell module impinges on the solar cells through the encapsulation layers of the solar cell module.

[0051] Further preferred features and embodiments are explained below with reference to exemplary embodiments and figures. Figures 1 to 6 each show an exemplary embodiment of a solar cell module according to the invention.

[0052] The figures show schematic representations and arrangements that are not to scale. Identical reference symbols in the figures indicate identical or identically functioning elements.

[0053] The exemplary embodiment of a solar cell module according to the invention shown in Figure 1 has four module segments 3a, 3b, 3c, and 3d. Dashed lines indicate the subsegments 2a and 2b assigned to the module segment 3a, the subsegments 2c and 2d to the module segment 3b, the subsegments 2e and 2f to the module segment 3c, and the subsegments 2g and 2h to the module segment 3d.

[0054] The solar cell strings 1 a, 1 b and 1 c are assigned to the sub-segment 2a, to each of which a plurality of solar cells 8 are assigned. The solar cell strings 1 d, 1 e and 1 f are assigned to the sub-segment 2b, to each of which a plurality of solar cells 8 are assigned. The solar cell strings 1 g, 1 h and 1 i are assigned to the sub-segment 2c, to each of which a plurality of solar cells 8 are assigned. The solar cell strings 1 j, 1 k and 1 1 are assigned to the sub-segment 2d, to each of which a plurality of solar cells 8 are assigned. The solar cell strings 1 m, 1 n and 1 o are assigned to the sub-segment 2e, to each of which a plurality of solar cells 8 are assigned. The solar cell strings 1 p, 1 q and 1 r are assigned to the sub-segment 2f, to each of which a plurality of solar cells 8 are assigned. The solar cell strings 1 s, 1 t and 1 u are assigned to the sub-segment 2g, each of which is assigned a plurality of solar cells 8.The solar cell strings 1v, 1w and 1x are assigned to sub-segment 2h, each of which is assigned a plurality of solar cells 8. As an example, the solar cells 8 of the solar cell strings 1a to 1x have a number of 8. The solar cells are schematically represented by a triangle arranged in a rectangle. This schematic representation represents the equivalent circuit of a solar cell. The underlying equivalent circuit is based on the general description of the process within a solar cell using the two-diode model. The orientation of the triangle within the rectangle refers to the diode arrangement of the two diodes within the equivalent circuit. The technical direction of current flow within the solar cell therefore corresponds to a direction opposite to the triangular orientation.

[0055] The solar cell strings 1 a, 1 b and 1 c are arranged in parallel in sub-segment 2a. The solar cell strings 1 d, 1 e and 1 f are arranged in parallel in sub-segment 2b. The solar cell strings 1 g, 1 h and 1 i are arranged in parallel in sub-segment 2c. The solar cell strings 1 j, 1 k and 1 l are arranged in parallel in sub-segment 2d. The solar cell strings 1 m, 1 n and 1 o are arranged in parallel in sub-segment 2e. The solar cell strings 1 p, 1 q and 1 r are arranged in parallel in sub-segment 2f. The solar cell strings 1 s, 1 t and 1 u are arranged in parallel in sub-segment 2g. The solar cell strings 1 v, 1 w and 1 x are arranged in parallel in sub-segment 2h.

[0056] A sub-segment connector 6a is arranged between sub-segment 2a and sub-segment 2b. This sub-segment connector 6a establishes an electrically conductive connection between pole 2a.2 of sub-segment 2a and pole 2b.1 of sub-segment 2b. A sub-segment connector 6b is arranged between sub-segment 2c and sub-segment 2d. This sub-segment connector 6b establishes an electrically conductive connection between pole 2c.2 of sub-segment 2c and pole 2d.1 of sub-segment 2d. A sub-segment connector 6c is arranged between sub-segment 2e and sub-segment 2f. This sub-segment connector 6c establishes an electrically conductive connection between pole 2d.2 of sub-segment 2d and pole 2e.1 of sub-segment 2e. A sub-segment connector 6d is arranged between sub-segment 2g and sub-segment 2h. This sub-segment connector 6d establishes an electrically conductive connection between the pole 2g.2 of the sub-segment 2g and the pole 2h.1 of the sub-segment 2h. The pole 4a.1 of the bypass element 4a is electrically connected to the pole 2a.1 of the sub-segment 2a. The pole 4a.2 of the bypass element 4a is electrically connected to the pole 2b.2 of the sub-segment 2b. The pole 4b.1 of the bypass element 4b is electrically connected to the pole 2c.1 of the sub-segment 2c. The pole 4b.2 of the bypass element 4b is electrically connected to the pole 2d.2 of the sub-segment 2d. The pole 4c.1 of the bypass element 4c is electrically connected to the pole 2e.2 of the sub-segment 2e. The pole 4c.2 of the bypass element 4a is electrically connected to the pole 2f.1 of the sub-segment 2f. The pole 4d.1 of the bypass element 4d is electrically connected to the pole 2g.2 of the sub-segment 2g. The pole 4d.2 of the bypass element 4d is electrically connected to the pole 2h.1 of the sub-segment 2h.

[0057] The bypass elements 4a, 4b, 4c, and 4d are each designed as a bypass diode. It is also within the scope of the invention to design the bypass elements in an alternative form as described above, for example, each as a MOSFET.

[0058] Module segment 3a is electrically connected to module segment 3b via a segment connector 7a. Segment connector 7a connects pole 2b.2 of sub-segment 2b of module segment 3a to pole 2c.1 of sub-segment 2c of module segment 3b. Module segment 3a is electrically connected to module segment 3c via a segment connector 7b. Segment connector 7b connects pole 2a.1 of sub-segment 2a of module segment 3a to pole 2e.2 of sub-segment 2e of module segment 3c. Module segment 3b is electrically connected to module segment 3d via a segment connector 7c. The segment connector 7c connects the pole 2d.2 of the sub-segment 2d of the module segment 3b with the pole 2h.1 of the sub-segment 2h of the module segment 3d.

[0059] In addition to the wiring arrangement, the exemplary embodiment has a layout described as follows from a top view. The four module segments are arranged in a matrix. The module segments 3a and 3b are located next to one another, with module segment 3b to the right of module segment 3a. They thus form a first matrix row, the sub-segments 2a to 2d of the module segments 3a and 3b are arranged parallel to one another, so that the solar cells 8 of the solar cell strings 1a to 11 arranged in series are also arranged parallel to one another. The module segments 3c and 3d are located next to one another, with module segment 3d to the right of module segment 3c. They thus form a second matrix row, the sub-segments 2e to 2h of the module segments 3c and 3d are arranged parallel to one another, so that the solar cells 8 of the solar cell strings 1e to 1x arranged in series are also arranged parallel to one another.The sub-segments each have a current direction, whereby in each row the sub-segments of the module segments are arranged with alternating current directions, so that adjacent sub-segments in a row have opposite current directions. The current direction of sub-segment 2a runs from pole 2a.1 to pole 2a.2. The current direction of sub-segment 2b runs from pole 2b.1 to pole 2b.2. The current direction of sub-segment 2c runs from pole 2c.1 to pole 2c.2. The current direction of sub-segment 2d runs from pole 2d.1 to pole 2d.2. The current direction of sub-segment 2e runs from pole 2e.1 to pole 2e.2. The current direction of sub-segment 2f runs from pole 2f.1 to pole 2f.2. The current direction of sub-segment 2g runs from pole 2g.1 to pole 2g.2. The current direction of subsegment 2h runs from pole 2h.1 to pole 2h.2.The sequence of current directions of the sub-segments in the first row and the second row are therefore the same.

[0060] The solar module comprises two matrix columns: the first column contains module segments 3a and 3c. The second column contains module segments 3b and 3d.

[0061] The subsegment connectors 6a and 6b extend along the upper edge of the first row of the matrix. The subsegment connectors 6c and 6d extend along the lower edge of the second row of the matrix.

[0062] Segment connector 7a extends along the lower portion of the first row of the matrix. Segment connectors 7b and 7c extend from the first row to the second row.

[0063] In the center of Figure 1, the symbols "+" and "+" schematically indicate the position at which the positive and negative contacts for connecting the solar cell module to an external circuit, in particular to other solar cell modules, are located on the rear of the solar cell module. It is within the scope of the invention in the exemplary embodiments shown in Figure 1 and also in the other figures that the respective polarity of the solar module's contacts is reversed when the solar cell direction is reversed.

[0064] Figures 2 to 6 each show modified embodiments. To avoid repetition, only the essential differences from the embodiment shown in Figure 1 are discussed below:

[0065] In the embodiment shown in Figure 2, the module segments 3a and 3b as well as 3c and 3d each have a further module segment 3e and 3f as well as 3g and 3h. The further module segment 3e is electrically connected to the module segment 3a via the segment connector 7d and to the module segment 3f via the segment connector 7e. The further module segment 3f is electrically connected to the module segment 3b via the segment connector 7f. The further module segment 3g is electrically connected to the module segment 3c via the segment connector 7g. The further module segment 3h is electrically connected to the module segment 3d via the segment connector 7h. The module segment 3a is electrically connected to the module segment 3c via the segment connector 7b. The further module segment 3b is electrically connected to the module segment 3d via the segment connector 7c.

[0066] Module segments 3e and 3g are arranged to the right of module segments 3a and 3c. Module segments 3f and 3h are arranged to the left of module segments 3b and 3d. This offers the advantage that an extension of the configuration shown in Example 1 can be implemented structurally simply by adding a module segment.

[0067] In the embodiment shown in Figure 3, the module segments 3a and 3d each have a further module segment 3e and 3f. The further module segment 3e is electrically connected to the module segment 3a via the segment connector 7d and to the module segment 3b via the segment connector 7e. The further module segment 3f is electrically connected to the module segment 3d via the segment connector 7f. The module segment 3a is electrically connected to the module segment 3c via the segment connector 7b. The module segment 3b is electrically connected to the module segment 3d via the segment connector 7c.

[0068] Module segment 3e is located between module segments 3a and 3b. Module segment 3f is located between module segments 3c and 3d.

[0069] In a modified embodiment of the embodiment shown in Figure 3, the module segments 3a and 3c each have a further module segment 3e and 3f. The further module segment 3e is electrically connected to the module segment 3a via the segment connector 7d. The further module segment 3f is electrically connected to the module segment 3d via the segment connector 7f and to the module segment 3c via the segment connector 7e. The module segment 3a is electrically connected to the module segment 3c via the segment connector 7b. The module segment 3b is electrically connected to the module segment 3d via the segment connector 7c.

[0070] Module segment 3e is located between module segments 3a and 3b. Module segment 3f is located between module segments 3c and 3d.

[0071] In a further modified embodiment of the embodiment shown in Figure 3, the module segments 3b and 3c each have a further module segment 3e and 3f. The further module segment 3e is connected to the module segment 3b via the segment connector 7d. The further module segment 3f is electrically connected to the module segment 3d via the segment connector 7f and to the module segment 3c via the segment connector 7e. The module segment 3a is electrically connected to the module segment 3c via the segment connector 7b. The module segment 3b is electrically connected to the module segment 3d via the segment connector 7c.

[0072] The module segment 3e is arranged between the module segments 3a and 3b. The module segment 3f is arranged between the module segments 3c and 3d. In a further modified embodiment of the embodiment shown in Figure 3, the module segments 3a and 3c each have a further module segment 3e and 3f. The further module segment 3e is electrically connected to the module segment 3a via the segment connector 7d and to the module segment 3b via the segment connector 7e. The further module segment 3f is electrically connected to the module segment 3c via the segment connector 7f. The module segment 3a is electrically connected to the module segment 3c via the segment connector 7b. The module segment 3b is electrically connected to the module segment 3d via the segment connector 7c.

[0073] Module segment 3e is located between module segments 3a and 3b. Module segment 3f is located between module segments 3c and 3d.

[0074] This results in the advantage, in the embodiment of Figure 3 and the modifications, as also shown in Figure 2, that an extension of the configuration shown in the embodiment 1 can be implemented in a structurally simple manner via a module segment addition.

[0075] In the embodiment shown in Figure 4, the module segments 3b and 3d have no electrically conductive connection. In contrast to the embodiment described in Figure 1, the module segment is electrically connected to the module segment 3c via the segment connector 7b.

[0076] In a modified embodiment of the embodiment shown in Figure 4, the module segments 3a and 3c have no electrically conductive connection. In contrast to the embodiment described in Figure 1, the module segment 3b is electrically connected to the module segment 3d via the segment connector 7b.

[0077] This has the advantage that only one cross-row segment connector is required for the configuration shown.

[0078] The embodiment shown in Figure 5a has no further segment connectors besides 7a; the function of the cross-row segment connectors is performed by two row rails 9a and 9b. The module segment 3a is electrically connected to the module segment 3c via the row rail 9a. The module segment 3b is electrically connected to the module segment 3d via the row rail 9b. The row rails 9a and 9b are arranged within the encapsulation. The string connectors 10a and 10b of the module segments 3a and 3b are arranged within the laminate in a first plane E1 and are electrically connected via a segment connector 7a which is also located in this plane. The string connectors 10c and 10d of the module segments 3c and 3d are arranged within the encapsulation in a second plane E2. Plane 2 is spaced from the first plane E1. The insulation layer 1 1 is arranged between the levels E1 and E2.The illustrated design includes two contact feedthroughs 12a and 12b. These contact feedthroughs 12 enable contacting of the connectors located in the encapsulation 13. The connectors leading to the outside are interconnected with the bypass elements 4 within the junction boxes.

[0079] Figure 5b shows a section along section line A-A from Figure 5a. This figure illustrates the position of the individual layers E1 and E2, the insulation layer 11 of the encapsulation 13, the positioning of the contact feedthrough 12, and the front 15 and rear 14 of the module.

[0080] The advantage of these connectors being arranged one above the other is that the use of space is improved, which leads to an increase in efficiency.

[0081] In the embodiment shown in Figure 6, the module segments 3a to 3d each have two bypass elements 4.

[0082] Pole 4b.2 of bypass element 4b is electrically connected to pole 2b.2 of sub-segment 2b. Poles 4a.2 and 4b.1 are electrically connected to contact 6a.3 of sub-segment connector 6a via bypass connector 5a.

[0083] Pole 4c.1 of bypass element 4c is electrically connected to pole 2c.1 of sub-segment 2c. Pole 4d.2 of bypass element 4d is electrically connected to pole 2d.2 of sub-segment 2d. Poles 4c.2 and 4d.1 are electrically connected to contact 6b.3 of sub-segment connector 6b via bypass connector 5b.

[0084] Pole 4f.1 of bypass element 4f is electrically connected to pole 2f.1 of sub-segment 2f. Pole 4e.2 of bypass element 4e is electrically connected to pole 2e.2 of sub-segment 2e. Poles 4f.2 and 4e.1 are electrically connected to contact 6c.3 of sub-segment connector 6c via bypass connector 5c.

[0085] Pole 4h.1 of bypass element 4h is electrically connected to pole 2h.1 of sub-segment 2h. Pole 4g.2 of bypass element 4g is electrically connected to pole 2g.2 of sub-segment 2g. Poles 4h.2 and 4g.1 are electrically connected to contact 6d.3 of sub-segment connector 6c via bypass connector 5d.

[0086] The advantage of this design is that the connection via bypass connector 5 reduces material costs due to the combination of the otherwise required individual connections of the bypass elements with the sub-segment connector. Such connectors make it possible to secure small sub-segments with a bypass, thus reducing partial shading losses. Furthermore, the use of a bypass connector enables a more flexible arrangement of the bypass elements on the solar module. Furthermore, this arrangement reduces the risk of hotspots caused by shorter solar cell strings. Another advantage is that the voltage load on the bypass elements is reduced when bridging.

[0087] Reference symbol list

[0088] Solar cell string

[0089] sub-segment

[0090] Module segment

[0091] Bypass element

[0092] Bypass element connector

[0093] Partial segment connector

[0094] Segment connector

[0095] solar cell

[0096] Row connectors

[0097] String connectors

[0098] Insulation layer

[0099] Contact implementation

[0100] Encapsulation

[0101] back

[0102] Front

[0103] Current direction

Claims

Claims: A solar cell module comprising module segments connected in series via segment connectors, wherein each module segment has at least two sub-segments connected in series via a sub-segment connector, wherein each sub-segment has at least one first solar cell string with a plurality of solar cells connected in series, wherein the solar cells of the solar cell module are arranged such that the solar cell module forms a shorter edge and a longer edge, characterized in that the solar module has at least four module segments, wherein each module segment has at least two sub-segments connected in series by a sub-segment connector, wherein each sub-segment has a first and at least one second solar cell string, wherein the solar cell strings of each sub-segment are connected in parallel by means of an inner string connector and an outer string connector.wherein the solar cell strings each comprise a plurality of solar cells connected in series, that the solar cell strings extend parallel to the short edge of the solar cell module, that the at least four module segments are arranged in a matrix having at least two rows and at least two columns, wherein each row and each column contains at least two of the at least four module segments, that in each row the sub-segments of the module segments are arranged with alternating current directions, such that adjacent sub-segments in a row have opposite current directions, wherein the sequence of current directions of the sub-segments in the first and second rows is the same. A solar cell module according to claim 1, characterized in that each module segment has a bypass element which is connected in parallel to the sub-segments of the module segment. A solar cell module according to claim 1, characterized in that a plurality of the outer string connectors and sub-segment connectors are arranged in an edge region of the solar cell module and that a plurality of the inner string connectors and segment connectors are arranged in a central module region. A solar cell module according to any of the preceding claims, characterized in that the segment connectors which connect module segments of two adjacent rows in series are additionally configured as the inner string connectors of the connected sub-segments of the respective module segments.Solar cell module according to claim 3, characterized in that the inner string connectors and inner segment connectors of the module segments of a first row are arranged on a first plane, and the inner string connectors of a second row are arranged on a second plane, which is spaced apart from the first plane and separated from each other by an electrically non-conductive insulating layer, preferably that the planes are arranged within the encapsulation material, in particular the inner string connectors of the second row are arranged overlapping with the inner string connectors and inner segment connectors.Solar cell module according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the solar module has a plurality of contact passages to enable contacting of the connectors, preferably the contacting of the string connectors, particularly preferably the contacting of the segment connectors, through the planes to the back of the solar module. Solar cell module according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the module segments each have a first and at least a second bypass element, each of which has a first and a second pole, wherein the first pole of the first bypass element of a module segment is connected to a first pole of the first sub-segment of the module segment and the second pole of the second bypass element of the module segment is electrically connected to a second pole of the second sub-segment of the module segment and the second pole of the first bypass element of the module segment and the first pole of the second bypass element of the first module segment are electrically connected to the sub-segment connector of the module segment by means of a bypass connector.Solar cell module according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that a plurality of bypass elements, preferably bypass elements and the segment connectors, which electrically connect adjacent module segments of a column to one another, are positioned in junction boxes, in particular bypass elements which belong to module segments which belong to the same column. Solar cell module according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the number of module segments of the first row corresponds to the number of module segments of the next row and / or further rows. Solar cell module according to claim 9, characterized in that the solar cell strings of a sub-segment of a module segment have the identical number of solar cells as the solar cell strings of the further sub-segments of the module segment and that the module segments connected via segment connectors.

1. Solar cell module according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the module segments are arranged parallel to one another and the sub-segments of the module segments are electrically connected in series at an edge region of the solar module, in particular by means of sub-segment connectors, preferably by means of straight sub-segment connectors, and that the module segments are electrically connected in series at a region not located at the edge of the solar module, in particular by means of segment connectors, preferably straight segment connectors. 2.Solar cell module according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that four module segments are arranged in the first row, each connected in series via segment connectors; that four module segments are arranged in the second row, wherein two of the four module segments are connected in series via segment connectors; and that the module segments of the first and last columns of the rows are connected in series via segment connectors.

3. Solar cell module according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that three module segments are arranged in the first row, each connected in series via segment connectors; that three module segments are arranged in the second row, wherein two of the three module segments are connected in series via segment connectors; and that the module segments of the first and last columns of the rows are connected in series via segment connectors. 4.Solar cell module according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that it that in the first and second rows two module segments are arranged which are each connected in series via segment connectors, and the module segments of the first or last column of the rows are connected in series via segment connectors.

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