Hybrid solar panel

Abstract

The invention relates to a hybrid solar panel intended to simultaneously generate electricity and heat, comprising: • - at least one photovoltaic module, • - a heat exchanger adjacent to the rear face of the photovoltaic module for the circulation of a heat-transfer fluid, • - an inlet manifold and an outlet manifold for the heat-transfer fluid in fluidic communication with the exchanger, • - at least one electrical junction box associated with the photovoltaic module, • - the junction box is positioned between the photovoltaic module and the exchanger, • - the heat exchanger comprises at least one profiled element provided with internal channels for the circulation of the heat-transfer fluid, • - the profiled element is shaped so as to include at least one protruding portion passing above the junction box.

Description

Description HYBRID SOLAR PANEL [Technical field.

[0001] The present invention relates to a hybrid solar panel, as well as a method of manufacturing such a panel. [2] It concerns the technical field of solar panels integrating both a photovoltaic module (to produce electricity) and a heat exchanger (to produce heat). It concerns more particularly the design of such a heat exchanger. State of the art. [3] A hybrid solar panel usually comprises: - at least one photovoltaic module having a front face intended to receive sunlight and a rear face opposite the front face; - a heat exchanger adjacent to the rear face of the photovoltaic module for the circulation of a heat transfer fluid; - an inlet manifold and an outlet manifold for the heat transfer fluid in fluid communication with the exchanger; and - at least one electrical junction box associated with the photovoltaic module. [4] For the heat exchanger to have maximum efficiency, it is important that it covers as much of the rear face of the photovoltaic module as possible. [5] The photovoltaic module comprises a plurality of photovoltaic cells adapted to transform light radiation from the sun into electrical energy. These photovoltaic cells are connected together in order to collect the electrical energy produced by each of the cells. For this, an interconnection system makes it possible to connect several cells together to form a chain and to connect these chains together. The electric current thus flows from one cell to another and from one chain to another via connectors installed in one or more junction boxes. The junction box thus transmits the flow of electric current generated by the cells, in particular towards the outside of the panel. The junction box is generally equipped for this purpose terminals or connectors that allow easy connection to external devices such as inverters. The junction box also allows multiple photovoltaic modules to be connected together via interconnection cables. [6] Different photovoltaic module technologies exist: amorphous, thin-film, multi-junction, crystalline mono-junction. In particular, for crystalline cells, which are the most common, we know in particular modules of so-called "full-cell" technology, and modules of so-called "Shingle" technology, where standard cells are cut into narrow strips and are then superimposed by overlapping them (hence the English term "Shingle"). In modules of so-called "half-cell" technology, each standard photovoltaic cell is divided into two half-cells, typically by laser cutting. The half-cells are interconnected in series or in parallel, as required. [7] The implementation of heat exchangers in hybrid solar panels using “Half-Cut Cell” technology modules presents particular constraints. [8] Indeed, with “Full-Cell” or “Shingle” modules, the junction boxes are generally installed on the periphery of the panel, for example in or on the frame of the said panel, so that they leave the rear face of the module completely free. The heat exchanger can then extend over this entire rear face and be installed relatively simply. [9] On the other hand, with “Half-Cut Cell” modules, the junction boxes are positioned directly against the rear face of the module, often in the middle of it. This configuration therefore limits the surface area available for the heat exchanger, thus reducing its potential efficiency. In addition, the presence of these boxes in the center of the module makes it difficult to install the exchanger or at the very least complicates its design, thereby increasing the associated costs.

[0010] The invention aims to overcome the aforementioned drawbacks. The invention aims in particular to achieve all or part of the following objectives: to facilitate the association of the heat exchanger with a photovoltaic module whose junction box is arranged against the rear face of said module, in particular with a “Half-Cut Cell” module; to maximize the contact surface between the heat exchanger and the rear face of the photovoltaic module; to simplify the design and installation of the heat exchanger in the presence of junction boxes located against the rear face of the module; to improve the efficiency of the panel in terms of heat transfer, in particular by minimizing the impact of the junction boxes; to reduce the costs and manufacturing time of the hybrid solar panel. Presentation of the invention.

[0011] The solution proposed by the invention is a hybrid solar panel intended for the simultaneous generation of electricity and heat, comprising: - at least one photovoltaic module comprising a front face intended to receive solar radiation and a rear face opposite said front face, - a heat exchanger adjacent to the rear face of the photovoltaic module for the circulation of a heat transfer fluid, - an inlet manifold and an outlet manifold for the heat transfer fluid in fluid communication with the exchanger, - at least one electrical junction box associated with the photovoltaic module, and in which: - the junction box is placed between the photovoltaic module and the exchanger, against the rear face of said module, - the heat exchanger comprises at least one rigid extruded profile provided with several internal channels for the circulation of the heat transfer fluid, which channels open at the terminal ends of said profile, - the profile is previously shaped so as to include at least one prominent part passing above the junction box, the parts of said profile adjacent to said prominent part being flat and in contact with the rear face of the photovoltaic module.

[0012] The specific conformation of the heat exchanger profile allows it to be easily associated with a photovoltaic module whose junction box is placed against its rear face, and in particular with a “Half-Cut Cell” type module.

[0013] The raised portion allows the junction box to be bypassed without having to cut or modify the profile. This is because the raised portion simply spans the box, eliminating the need for complex adjustments or cutouts that would be required to accommodate the junction box placed against the rear face. In addition, these cutouts would create areas where the heat transfer fluid would not circulate, and therefore areas where there would be no heat exchange.

[0014] Additionally, this design allows the profile to remain in close contact with all or most of the module's rear face. The flat parts of the profile ensure maximum contact for efficient heat transfer. This maximizes the contact surface between the heat exchanger and the module, while minimizing the negative impact of the junction box on the panel's thermal performance.

[0015] The protruding part also serves as a guide and / or key for installation, helping to correctly position the exchanger in relation to the module. This limits errors and additional adjustments, thereby speeding up the installation process.

[0016] Other advantageous features of the invention are listed below. Each of these features may be considered alone or in combination with the remarkable features defined above. Each of these features contributes, where appropriate, to the resolution of specific technical problems defined further in the description and in which the other features defined above do not necessarily contribute. The following features may thus be the subject, where appropriate, of one or more divisional patent applications:

[0017] In one embodiment, the heat exchanger has a wave, undulation, or bump at the junction box that extends throughout the width of said panel, which wave, undulation or bump being formed by the, respectively, prominent part(s) of the, respectively, profile(s).

[0018] According to one embodiment, the protruding portion is spaced from the junction box so as to leave an air gap between said box and the profile.

[0019] According to one embodiment, the junctions between the prominent part and the adjacent flat parts of the profile are bent, which bends have a radius of curvature.

[0020] According to one embodiment, the ratio between the radius of curvature and the height of the channels is between 10 and 30.

[0021] According to one embodiment, the prominent part comprises an upper portion connected to the adjacent parts by sloping portions, the angle formed between said sloping portions and said adjacent parts being between 20° and 90°, preferably between 30° and 50°.

[0022] According to one embodiment, the profile has a rectangular or substantially rectangular hollow cross-section, said profile having a parallel upper wall and a lower wall, one or the other of said walls being in contact with the rear face of the module, internal separation walls located between said upper wall and said lower wall delimiting the channels, so that said channels are rectilinear, adjacent and parallel.

[0023] According to one embodiment, the collectors are offset in height from the plane defined by the rear face of the photovoltaic module; and the end portions of the profile are bent so that the terminal ends of said profile can be connected to said collectors.

[0024] According to one embodiment, a plurality of fins protrude from the profile.

[0025] According to one embodiment, the heat exchanger is formed from a plurality of adjacent profiles placed side by side at their longitudinal edges.

[0026] According to one embodiment: - a rigid frame surrounds the photovoltaic module and the heat exchanger; - support elements are fixed to said frame; - elastic elements bear against said elements support and against the profile so as to exert a compressive force pressing said profile against the rear face of the photovoltaic module.

[0027] According to one embodiment, the photovoltaic module is composed of photovoltaic cells cut into half-cells.

[0028] According to one embodiment, the profile is a single-piece profile produced by extrusion. And preferably an aluminum profile produced using the multi-pore extrusion technique.

[0029] Another aspect of the invention relates to a method of manufacturing a hybrid solar panel intended for the simultaneous generation of electricity and heat, said panel comprising a photovoltaic module having a front face intended to receive sunlight and a rear face opposite the front face, said method comprising the following steps: - associate at least one electrical junction box with the photovoltaic module, - installing a heat exchanger adjacent to the rear face of the photovoltaic module, for the circulation of a heat transfer fluid, - installing an inlet manifold and an outlet manifold in fluid communication with the exchanger, said method further comprising the following steps: - place the junction box between the photovoltaic module and the exchanger, against the rear face of said module, - produce the heat exchanger in such a way that it comprises at least one rigid extruded profile provided with several internal channels for the circulation of the heat transfer fluid, which channels open out at the terminal ends of said profile, - prior to installing the exchanger: conform the profile so that it includes at least one prominent part configured to pass over the junction box, the parts of said profile adjacent to said prominent part being flat and configured to be in contact with the rear face of the photovoltaic module, - when installing the exchanger, use the protruding part as a guide and / or key to position the said exchanger in relation to the photovoltaic module.

[0030] According to one embodiment, the profile is produced using multi-pore or micro-channel extrusion technology.

[0031] According to one embodiment, the protruding part is shaped by forming or stamping the profile. Brief description of the figures.

[0032] Other advantages and characteristics of the invention will appear more clearly on reading the description of a preferred embodiment which follows, with reference to the appended drawings, produced as indicative and non-limiting examples and in which: [Fig. 1] is a rear view of a solar panel according to the invention. [Fig. 2] is a schematic sectional view of a solar panel according to the invention. [Fig. 3A] is a cross-sectional view of an example of a profile forming the heat exchanger. [Fig. 3B] is a cross-sectional view of another example of a profile forming the heat exchanger. [Fig. 4] is a schematic perspective view of a heat exchanger adapted to a solar panel according to the invention. [Fig. 5] is a front view of the exchanger of Figure 4. [Fig. 6] shows the exchanger of Figure 5, and on which photovoltaic cells and junction boxes are shown. [Fig. 7] is an enlarged schematic view of detail D1 of Figure 2. [Fig. 8] is an enlarged schematic view of detail D2 of Figure 2. [Fig. 9] illustrates the arrangement of a support element and an elastic element to constrain the heat exchanger against the photovoltaic module. [Fig. 10] shows a connection for connecting the collectors to other exchangers and / or to an external circuit. [Fig. 11 A] shows a diagram of a bent collector. [Fig. 11 B] shows a diagram of an elbow connection used to connect the collectors to the exchanger. [Fig. 12] is a schematic perspective view of a heat exchanger according to an alternative embodiment. Description of the embodiments.

[0033] To possibly supplement their current definition, the following clarifications are made to certain terms used in the claims and the description: - As used herein, unless otherwise indicated, the possible use of the ordinal adjectives "first," "second," etc., to describe an object merely indicates that different occurrences of similar objects are being referred to and does not imply that the objects so described must be in any given sequence, whether in time, space, ranking, or otherwise. - Similarly, the use of the adjectives “right / left”, “front / back”, "top / bottom", "bottom / top", etc., is used to simply describe the position of an object in the configuration of the attached figures, but does not necessarily imply that in practice, similar objects are in the same position. - “X and / or Y” means: X alone or Y alone or X+Y. - Generally speaking, it will be appreciated that on the various attached drawings, the objects can be arbitrarily drawn to facilitate their reading.

[0034] The solar panel that is the subject of the invention is a hybrid panel, that is to say that it is capable of producing electrical energy and thermal energy simultaneously. It is intended to be used alone or in combination with other similar panels, so that the electrical energy and thermal energy that it produces can be used, in particular by a home or an energy system.

[0035] Referring in particular to Figures 1 and 2, the solar panel 1 comprises one or more photovoltaic modules 2 having a front face 20 and a rear face 21 opposite said front face. The front face 20 is left free so that it can receive solar radiation. It can be covered with a transparent plate, such as for example a glass plate.

[0036] The module(s) 2 are installed inside a frame 7 bordering the panel 1. This frame 7 is rigid and can for example be made of aluminum or polymer, and formed of U-shaped profiles assembled together by welding or screwing.

[0037] The module 2 comprises several photovoltaic cells 200 placed in the same plane. These cells are electrically connected to each other, in series or in parallel, and are connected to one or more electrical junction boxes 4.

[0038] The module 2 is preferably a “Half-Cut Cell” type module. As illustrated in Figure 6, the cell strings 200 are connected by their center to the junction boxes 4 arranged in the middle of the panel 1. This “Half-Cut Cell” technology in fact has several advantages: the division of whole cells into half-cells reduces the electrical resistance and decreases the Joule effect losses in the module 2, which improves the efficiency of the panel 1; the half-cells allow better performance of the panel 1 when certain parts are shaded; the half-cells are more robust than whole cells.

[0039] However, the invention is not limited to a module 2 of the “Half-Cut Cell” type. It can be applied with one or more modules “Full-Cell” or “Shingle”, or even with thin-film, amorphous, or multi-layer photovoltaic modules, arranged so that the junction boxes are placed against the rear face 21 of said modules.

[0040] In practice, approximately 80% of the solar energy received is dissipated in the panel 1. The presence of a heat exchanger 3 makes it possible to recover the heat accumulated or dissipated in said module.

[0041] The exchanger 3 is adjacent to the rear face 21 of the module 2, that is to say located under said module, so as not to obstruct solar radiation. Like the module 2, the exchanger 3 is also framed by the frame 7.

[0042] A layer of electrically insulating material called a "backsheet" (for example a polyvinyl fluoride film or a glass plate) or a layer of glass (for example in the case of a so-called "bi-glass" photovoltaic module or "glass-glass" in English) can constitute the rear face 21 and form electrical insulation and sealing between the module 2 and the exchanger 3.

[0043] A heat transfer fluid (e.g. water, glycolated water, water, halogenated fluid, carbon dioxide type gas, etc.) circulates in the exchanger 3 in order to recover the calories from the module 2. The fluid is conveyed via a supply circuit and circulates in the exchanger 3, from an inlet manifold 5 to an outlet manifold 6 with which said exchanger is in fluid communication, which manifolds being integral with the panel 1. The area of ​​the exchanger 3 between these two manifolds corresponds to the heat exchange area. This exchange area may for example represent from 70% to 100%, preferably at least 85% or even at least 95%, of the surface area of ​​the module 2.

[0044] Referring to Figures 3A and 3B, the heat exchanger 3 comprises at least one profile 30 provided with internal channels 300 for the circulation of the heat transfer fluid. These channels open at the terminal ends of the profile 30.

[0045] In the embodiment of Figure 3A, the profile 30 has a substantially rectangular hollow cross-section. It has a parallel upper wall 301 and a lower wall 302. One or the other of these walls is intended to be in contact with the rear face 21 of the module 2. Internal separation walls 303 located between the two lower and upper walls make it possible to delimit the channels 300, so that said channels are adjacent and parallel. The channels 300 may have a square, rectangular, circular, oval, trapezoidal section and are preferably rectilinear. This type of profile is particularly light, while giving good mechanical strength to the exchanger 3 and a certain elasticity.

[0046] The thickness of the walls 301 and 302 is preferably between 0.2 mm and 1 mm. This low thickness allows the heat transfer fluid to circulate in the immediate vicinity of the rear face 21 of the module 2 to optimize heat exchanges. he

[0047] Figure 3B illustrates an alternative embodiment where the channels 300 are integral with the single wall 302, which wall is intended to be in contact with the rear face 21 of the module 2. For the same reasons as those mentioned previously, the thickness of the wall 302 is advantageously between 0.2 mm and 1 mm.

[0048] The profile 30 is preferably a rigid profile extruded so as to obtain homogeneous dimensions and mechanical and thermal characteristics over its entire length. The strength and rigidity of the profile 30 are thus uniform, ensuring that it can withstand the mechanical stresses to which it is subjected, which makes the exchanger 3 particularly robust. In addition, the homogeneity obtained means that the profile 30 has a constant thermal conductivity over its entire length. The heat transfer is thus homogeneous over the entire surface of the profile 30, so that the efficiency of the heat exchanger is reliable, optimized and stable over time.

[0049] The material used to make the profile 30 is a thermally conductive material such as aluminum, copper, or stainless steel. It can also be made of a plastic material such as polypropylene, polyethylene, polymethyl methacrylate, polyphenylene sulfide, polyphenylene oxide, polyphenylene ether, acrylonitrile butadiene styrene, or any other material suitable to the person skilled in the art. These materials provide long-term resistance to corrosion generated by the heat transfer fluid, as well as to temperatures of up to 90°C.

[0050] According to a preferred embodiment, the profile 30 is a rigid honeycomb plate, in particular an aluminum plate obtained by an extrusion technique called multi-pore extrusion (MPE for the English acronym for “Multi Pore Extrusion”) or a micro-channel extrusion (MCE for the English acronym for “Micro Channel Extrusion”). Other extrusion techniques and / or materials are however conceivable. In addition to the high thermal conductivity of aluminum, this material is not only rigid, but also light, which simplifies the assembly and installation of the exchanger 3. Since aluminum is also recyclable, the environmental impact of the panel 1 over its entire life cycle can be reduced.

[0051] MPE or MCE extrusion allows for optimized channel geometries 300 that can be adapted to maximize the exchange surface area (by maximizing the number of channels) and the thermal performance of the exchanger 3 and / or to adapt to space constraints.

[0052] The profile 30 may have length and width dimensions corresponding to those of the module 2. The exchanger 3 is in this case made up of a single monobloc profile in the form of a plate, the length of which may for example be between 150 cm and 400 cm, the width between 50 cm and 700 cm, and the thickness between 1 mm and 50 mm.

[0053] However, according to a preferred embodiment illustrated in Figures 4 and 5, the exchanger 3 is formed from a plurality of adjacent profiles 30, placed side by side at their longitudinal edges. The profiles 30 advantageously extend along the length of the panel 1, but could extend across its width. The profiles 30 can then be fixed to each other and / or fixed to the panel 1, by welding, gluing, or by screw elements. This embodiment offers modularity in the design of the exchanger 3 by allowing easy adaptation to different sizes and geometries of the module 2 and / or the panel 1. For example, the exchanger 3 can be made up of five to thirty profiles 30 whose width varies from 5 cm to 50 cm and whose length is between 150 cm and 400 cm.

[0054] Whatever the embodiment, the channels 300 advantageously have a length corresponding to that of the profile 30, a width of between 1 mm and 10 mm and a height of between 1 mm and 10 mm. For heat transfer fluid flow rates of 100 L / h to 200 L / h and up to 400 L / h, the pressure losses generated in such channels 30 remain low. The number of channels 300 per profile 30 is advantageously between 10 and 35.

[0055] As mentioned previously, the panel 1 comprises an exchanger 3 formed of one or more profiles 30, and one or more junction boxes 4 associated with one or more modules 2. For reasons of conciseness and clarity, but without this being limiting, the remainder of the description refers only to a profile 30, and to an electrical junction box 4 associated with a module 2. Referring to figures 2 and 7, the junction box 4 is arranged between the module 2 and the exchanger 3, against the rear face 21 of said module.

[0056] To bypass the housing 4, the profile 30 is previously shaped so as to include at least one prominent portion 340 passing above said housing. This shaping is carried out prior to the installation of the exchanger 3 against the photovoltaic module 2. The portions 320 of the profile 30 which are adjacent to the prominent portion 340 are flat and in contact with the rear face 21 of the module 2 so as to maintain optimal heat transfer between said module and said profile. The exchanger 3 thus has a “wave”, “undulation” or “bump” at the level of the housing 4 formed by the (when several profiles are used) prominent part(s) 340 of the profile(s) 30, and which extends across the entire width of said panel (except the frame 7) as can be seen for example in figures 1 and 4.

[0057] When installing the exchanger 3, the protruding part 340 is advantageously used as a guide and / or as a key to position said exchanger relative to the module 2.

[0058] The protruding portion 340 may have different elevation geometries, including, but not limited to, a sinusoidal, trapezoidal, rectangular, triangular, arcuate shape, etc. In practice, the geometry chosen is adapted to that of the housing 4. It may extend across the entire width of the panel 1 or be located only at the level of the housing 4.

[0059] In the attached figures, the protruding portion 340 has a generally trapezoidal shape, and comprises an upper portion 3400 connected to the adjacent portions 320 by sloping portions 3410. The upper portion 3400 and the sloping portions 3410 are preferably flat, but could be curved. In order for the protruding portion 340 to be as compact as possible, the length of the upper portion 3400 advantageously corresponds to the width of the housing 4 to within ±40%.

[0060] The protruding portion 340 may be formed separately and then welded to the adjacent portions 320. This solution, however, has the disadvantage of requiring welding, thereby increasing the risks of leakage and the costs and manufacturing time of the exchanger. For this reason, the protruding part 340 is preferably shaped by forming or stamping the profile 30, in particular by a folding technique using press brake equipment, which profile remains monobloc and in one piece.

[0061] According to one embodiment, the protruding portion 340 is spaced from the housing 4 so as to leave an air gap between the housing 4 and the profile 30. This air gap improves the electrical insulation between the two components, so as to limit leakage currents between said housing and said profile. This air gap also allows air circulation limiting the risks of overheating of the housing 4. The distance eSP separating the top of the housing 4 and the upper portion 3400 may for example be between 1 mm and 10 mm. This distance is preferably chosen so that the upper portion 3400 does not, however, exceed the frame 7, the protruding portion 340 thus remaining confined in the internal volume defined by said frame. In other words, the protruding portion 340 does not exceed the plane P defined by the lateral limits of the frame 7.This design makes it possible to protect the protruding part 340 against untimely external mechanical impacts likely to compromise the physical integrity of the exchanger 3. The transport, storage and installation of the panel 1 are also facilitated insofar as its overall dimensions, particularly in thickness, remain constant.

[0062] The junctions between the prominent portion 340 and the adjacent portions 320 of the are advantageously bent, which bends have a radius of curvature Rc. In Figure 7, these bends are located at the junction between the adjacent portions 320 and the sloping portions 3410 of the prominent portion 340. These radii of curvature Rc limit the mechanical stresses on the profile 30 and avoid any breakage or pinching of the channels 300 likely to oppose the flow of the heat transfer fluid, thus limiting the pressure losses. The best results in terms of reducing pressure losses are obtained when the ratio between the radius of curvature Rc and the height of the channels 300 is between 10 and 30. For the same reasons, these radii of curvature are are also found at the junction between the upper portion 3400 and the sloping portions 3410.

[0063] To further reduce the pressure losses in the channels 300, the angle a formed between the sloping portions 3410 and the rear face 21 of the module 2 (or the flat parts 320), is between 20° and 90°, preferably between 30° and 50°.

[0064] In this configuration, it can be seen that the sloping portions 3410 are spaced from the housing 4, the air gap between these elements improving the air circulation around said housing so as to limit the risks of overheating of said housing.

[0065] This inclination, however, implies that the adjacent parts 320 are spaced from the housing 4 by a distance noted wc in figure 7. This distance corresponds to a surface of the rear face 21 which is not covered by the profile 30, and is therefore not subject to thermal exchanges with the heat transfer fluid, thereby reducing the efficiency of the exchanger 3.

[0066] It therefore appeared advantageous to find the best compromise between: i) reducing the pressure losses at the level of the prominent part 340, ii) limiting heating of the housing 4, and iii) maximizing the exchange surface at the level of the adjacent parts 320.

[0067] To do this, the angle a is preferably determined according to the following formula: tan a = [ eB + eP + eSP ] / wc where: - eB = height of the box 4; - eP = profile thickness 30; - eSP = distance between the upper portion 3400 (or more generally, the high point of the prominent part 340) and the housing 4, or in other words the thickness of the air gap between said upper portion and said housing; - wc = distance between the adjacent part 320 and the housing 4, such that: 0.5 x wB < wc < 1.5 x wB, with wB the width of the housing 4.

[0068] In figures 1 and 10, the collectors 5, 6 are connected to connectors 50, 60 allowing circulation of the heat transfer fluid between several exchangers thermal of different panels and / or to an external fluid circulation circuit (for example the primary circuit of a water-water heat pump or a water network of a home). To facilitate inter-panel connections and / or connection to an external circuit, the connectors 50, 60 are generally placed and fixed on the upper edge of the frame 7. Also, with reference to Figures 2 and 8, the collectors 5, 6 are advantageously offset in height from the plane defined by the rear face 21 of the module 2. And according to a preferred embodiment, the collectors 5 and 6 are located beyond the plane P, that is to say they are not included in the internal volume defined by the frame 7. This arrangement also makes it possible to arrange the collectors 5, 6 coaxially with the connectors 50, 60, which reduces pressure losses.

[0069] It is also possible to provide that the collectors 5, 6 do not protrude from the plane P, that is to say that they are included in the internal volume defined by the frame 7. This embodiment is visible in figure 11 A.

[0070] Several constructive solutions make it possible to connect the collectors 5, 6 to the profile 30. In the embodiment of FIG. 11 A, the ends 500, 600 of each collector 5, 6 are bent (or have a bent end piece) so as to connect said ends to the connector 50, 60. This conformation prevents the profile 30 from being connected at the ends 500, 600, so that there is an empty profile space at said ends. This empty space corresponds to a surface of the rear face 21 which is not covered by the profile 30, and therefore which is not subject to heat exchanges with the heat transfer fluid, thereby reducing the efficiency of the exchanger 3.

[0071] When the collectors 5, 6 are offset in height from the rear face 21, a solution illustrated by FIG. 11 B consists of using elbow fittings 56 making the connection between the terminal ends 304 of the profile 30 and the collectors 5, 6. One end of the fitting 56 is welded at the corresponding terminal end 304, the other end of said fitting being welded at the corresponding collector 5, 6. This solution, however, requires the use of an additional part (the fitting 56) which can complicate the assembly of panel 1 and requires several welds to be carried out, increasing the risk of leakage and the costs and time of manufacturing said panel.

[0072] Another solution is therefore preferred, illustrated in particular by FIG. 8, consisting of bending the end portions 330 of the profile 30 so that the terminal ends 304 of said profile can be connected to the collectors 5, 6. It is therefore now the conformation of the profile 30 which allows it to be connected to the collectors 5, 6 and no longer an added part. It is also sufficient to provide a weld between the terminal end 304 and the respective collector 5, 6, which reduces not only the risks of leakage, but also the costs and manufacturing time of the panel 1 in comparison with the first solution mentioned above. The end portions 330 are preferably shaped by forming or stamping the profile 30, in particular by a folding technique using press brake equipment.

[0073] To limit the mechanical stresses on the profile 30 and avoid any breakage or pinching of the channels 300 likely to increase the pressure losses, the junction between the end parts 330 and the flat parts 320 has a radius of curvature such that the ratio between said radius of curvature and the height of the channels 300 is between 10 and 30. To further reduce the pressure losses in the channels 300, the angle p formed between the end parts 330 and the flat parts 320 is between 20° and 90°, preferably between 30° and 50°.

[0074] The hydraulic diameter of the collectors 5, 6 is advantageously greater than that of the channels 300 so that the distribution of the heat transfer fluid in the channels 300 is as homogeneous as possible. Indeed, when the heat transfer fluid arrives in the inlet collector 5, it will first fill said collector before entering the channels. Similarly, the fluid will be able to evacuate without constraint in the outlet collector 6. The fluid will thus circulate in all of the channels 300 and in the entire heat exchange zone.

[0075] According to an embodiment illustrated in Figure 9, a device makes it possible to constrain the exchanger 3 against the rear face 21 of the module 2 so as to ensure effective and homogeneous surface contact between said exchanger and said rear face. This device is of the type described in patent application WO 2017 / 162993 and comprises one or more support elements 8 fixed to the frame 7. Elastic elements 9 (e.g.: helical springs, leaf springs, etc.) come to bear against the support elements 8 and against the profile 30 so as to exert a compression force pressing said profile against the rear face 21 of the module 2.

[0076] In the embodiment illustrated in Figure 12, a plurality of fins 305 protrude from the profile 30. These fins 305 form a particularly effective conduction heat sink for increasing the cooling of the panel 1. According to one embodiment, the fins 305 extend perpendicularly (90° ± 15°) or substantially perpendicularly from the flat parts 320. The fins 305 can be obtained directly during the extrusion of the profile 30 and formed therewith as a single piece. They can also be added and fixed to the profile 30 by brazing, welding, gluing, mechanical assembly (screwing, riveting, etc.) or by any other technique suitable to the person skilled in the art.

[0077] The arrangement of the various elements and / or means and / or steps of the invention, in the embodiments described above, should not be understood as requiring such an arrangement in all implementations. In any event, it will be understood that various modifications may be made to these elements and / or means and / or steps, without departing from the spirit and scope of the invention. In particular: - the profile 30 can be obtained by processes other than extrusion, such as for example machining or molding.

[0078] Further, one or more features disclosed only in one embodiment may be combined with one or more other features disclosed only in another embodiment. Similarly, one or more features disclosed only in one embodiment may be generalized to other embodiments, even if that or those features are described only in combination with other features.

[0079] The use of the verb "comprise", "comprise" or "include" and its conjugated forms does not exclude the presence of other elements or other steps than those set out in a claim.

[0080] In the claims, any reference sign in parentheses shall not be interpreted as a limitation of the claim.

Claims

Claims

1. (Hybrid solar panel for the simultaneous generation of electricity and heat, comprising: - at least one photovoltaic module (2) comprising a front face (20) intended to receive solar radiation and a rear face (21) opposite said front face, - a heat exchanger (3) adjacent to the rear face (21) of the photovoltaic module (2) for the circulation of a heat transfer fluid, - an inlet manifold (5) and an outlet manifold (6) for the heat transfer fluid in fluid communication with the exchanger (3), - at least one electrical junction box (4) associated with the photovoltaic module (2), characterized in that: - the junction box (4) is arranged between the photovoltaic module (2) and the exchanger, against the rear face (21) of said module, - the heat exchanger (3) comprises at least one rigid extruded profile (30) provided with several internal channels (300) for the circulation of the heat transfer fluid, which channels open at the terminal ends (304) of said profile, - the profile (30) is previously shaped so as to include at least one prominent part (340) passing above the junction box (4), the parts (320) of said profile adjacent to said prominent part being flat and in contact with the rear face (21) of the photovoltaic module (2).

2. Panel according to claim 1, wherein the heat exchanger (3) has a wave, undulation or bump at the junction box (4) which extends across the entire width of said panel, which wave, undulation or bump is formed by the protruding part(s) (340) of the profile(s) (30).

3. Panel according to one of the preceding claims, in which the protruding part (340) is spaced from the junction box (4) so ​​as to leave an air gap between said box and the profile (30).

4. Panel according to one of the preceding claims, in which the junctions between the protruding part (340) and the adjacent flat parts (320) of the profile (30) are bent, which bends have a radius of curvature (Rc).

5. Panel according to claim 4, in which the ratio between the radius of curvature (Rc) and the height of the channels (300) is between 10 and 30.

6. Panel according to one of the preceding claims, in which the protruding part (340) comprises an upper portion (3400) connected to the adjacent parts (320) by sloping portions (3410), the angle (a) formed between said sloping portions and said adjacent parts being between 20° and 90°, preferably between 30° and 50°.

7. Panel according to one of the preceding claims, in which: - the profile (30) has a rectangular or substantially rectangular hollow cross-section, said profile having a parallel upper wall (301) and lower wall (302), one or other of said walls being in contact with the rear face (21) of the module (2), - internal separation walls (303) located between the upper wall (301) and the lower wall (302) delimit the channels (300), so that said channels are rectilinear, adjacent and parallel.

8. Panel according to one of the preceding claims, in which: - the collectors (5, 6) are offset in height from the plane defined by the rear face (21) of the photovoltaic module (2), - the end portions (330) of the profile (30) are bent so that the terminal ends (304) of said profile can connect to said collectors.

9. A panel according to any preceding claim, wherein a plurality of fins (305) project from the profile (30).

10. Panel according to one of the preceding claims, in which the heat exchanger (3) is formed from a plurality of adjacent profiles (30) placed side by side at their longitudinal edges.

11. Panel according to one of the preceding claims, in which, in which: - a rigid frame (7) surrounds the photovoltaic module (2) and the heat exchanger (3), - support elements (8) are fixed to said frame, - elastic elements (9) bear against said support elements and against the profile (30) so as to exert a compression force pressing said profile against the rear face (21) of the photovoltaic module (2).

12. Panel according to one of the preceding claims, in which the photovoltaic module (2) is composed of photovoltaic cells (200) cut into half-cells.

13. Panel according to one of the preceding claims, in which the profile (30) is a single-piece profile resulting from extrusion.

14. Panel according to one of the preceding claims, in which the profile (30) is made of aluminum produced using the multi-pore extrusion technique.

15. A method of manufacturing a hybrid solar panel (1) intended for the simultaneous generation of electricity and heat, said panel comprising a photovoltaic module (2) having a front face (20) intended to receive sunlight and a rear face (21) opposite the front face, said method comprising the following steps: - associate at least one electrical junction box (4) with the photovoltaic module (2), - install a heat exchanger (3) adjacent to the rear face (21) of the photovoltaic module (2), for the circulation of a heat transfer fluid, - installing on the panel an inlet manifold (5) and an outlet manifold (6) in fluid communication with the exchanger (3), characterized in that said method further comprises the following steps: - place the junction box (4) between the photovoltaic module (2) and the exchanger (3), against the rear face (21) of said module, - producing the heat exchanger (3) in such a way that it comprises at least one rigid extruded profile (30) provided with several internal channels (300) for the circulation of the heat transfer fluid, which channels open at the terminal ends (304) of said profile, - prior to installing the exchanger (3), conforming the profile (30) so that it includes at least one prominent part (340) configured to pass above the junction box (4) when said exchanger is installed, the parts (320) of said profile adjacent to said prominent part being flat and configured to be in contact with the rear face (21) of the photovoltaic module (2), - when installing the exchanger (3), use the protruding part (340) as a guide and / or key to position said exchanger (3) relative to the photovoltaic module (2).

16. Method according to claim 15, in which the profile (30) is produced using multi-pore or micro-channel extrusion technology.

17. A method according to either of claims 15 or 16, wherein the protruding portion (340) is shaped by forming or stamping the profile (30).

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