Photovoltaic module

Abstract

Photovoltaic Module The present description relates to a photovoltaic module (400) comprising at least one group (405) of strings of photovoltaic cells extending along a principal plane (XY), the photovoltaic cells of the same string being electrically connected together in series along a first direction (X) of the principal plane, each group comprising at least: - a first string (411) comprising first photovoltaic cells (401) among the photovoltaic cells, the first photovoltaic cells each having a first width (l1) in a second direction (Y) of the principal plane, perpendicular to the first direction; and - a second string (412) comprising second photovoltaic cells (402) among the photovoltaic cells, the second photovoltaic cells each having a second width (l2) in the second direction, the second width being less than the first width.Figure for the summary: Fig. 4A.

Description

Title of the invention: Photovoltaic module technical field

[0001] This description relates generally to the field of photovoltaic systems, and more particularly to photovoltaic modules comprising an assembly of several photovoltaic cells electrically connected to each other. Previous technique

[0002] Photovoltaic modules comprising an assembly of several photovoltaic cells connected together have already been proposed, for example in patent application FR3051602A1.

[0003] However, it would be desirable to improve at least some aspects of known photovoltaic modules. Summary of the invention

[0004] One embodiment overcomes all or part of the disadvantages of known photovoltaic modules.

[0005] One embodiment provides for a photovoltaic module comprising at least one group of strings of photovoltaic cells extending along a principal plane, the photovoltaic cells of the same string being electrically connected to each other in series along a first direction of the principal plane, each group comprising at least: - a first string comprising first photovoltaic cells among the photovoltaic cells, each of the first photovoltaic cells having a first width in a second direction of the principal plane, perpendicular to the first direction; and - a second string comprising second photovoltaic cells among the photovoltaic cells, the second photovoltaic cells each having a second width in the second direction, the second width being less than the first width.

[0006] According to one embodiment, the second width is substantially equal to half of the first width.

[0007] According to one embodiment, a group among the at least one group further comprises a third string comprising third photovoltaic cells among the photovoltaic cells, the third photovoltaic cells each having a third width in the second direction, the third width being different from the first width of the second width.

[0008] According to one embodiment, the third width is less than or equal to 20% of the first width.

[0009] According to one embodiment, the at least one group comprises chains electrically connected to each other in parallel, for example the first and second chains are electrically connected to each other in parallel.

[0010] According to one embodiment, the at least one group comprises chains electrically connected to each other in series, for example a third chain is electrically connected in series with the first and second chains.

[0011] According to one embodiment, the photovoltaic cells of the same string: - are aligned with each other in the first direction (X); and / or - all have the same surface area; and / or - all have the same width and the same length; or - have different widths and lengths, with the same surface area.

[0012] According to one embodiment, the first and second photovoltaic cells correspond to first portions of photovoltaic plates cut along at least one first cutting line extending in the second direction, the photovoltaic plates being substantially square in shape in the main plane.

[0013] According to one embodiment, the second photovoltaic cells correspond to second portions of photovoltaic plates cut along at least one second cutting line extending in the first direction, the photovoltaic plates being substantially square in shape in the main plane, for example the photovoltaic plates being further cut into first portions along at least one first cutting line extending in the second direction.

[0014] According to one embodiment, the third photovoltaic cells correspond to third portions of photovoltaic plates cut along several second cutting lines, for example the photovoltaic plates being further cut into first portions along at least one first cutting line extending in the second direction.

[0015] According to one embodiment, each photovoltaic plate includes connecting bars extending in the first direction, each second cutting line being positioned halfway between two adjacent connecting bars and / or halfway between a longitudinal edge extending in the first direction of the photovoltaic plate and an adjacent connecting bar.

[0016] According to one embodiment, the first portions have substantially equal lengths in the first direction, and / or the second portions have substantially equal widths between them in the second direction.

[0017] According to one embodiment, the photovoltaic cells each comprise connecting bars extending in the first direction, and the cells Photovoltaic cells in the same string are connected together by conductive elements extending in the first direction, for example conductive copper ribbons, the conductive elements being connected to the connecting bars of the photovoltaic cells.

[0018] According to one embodiment, the photovoltaic module further comprises an electrical collector assembly configured to connect together the conductive elements of the different strings of the same group so as to circulate a current in the photovoltaic cells of said strings between a negative terminal and a positive terminal, the electrical collector assembly further comprising a bypass circuit comprising at least one diode.

[0019] According to one embodiment, the at least one group comprises several groups electrically connected to each other. Brief description of the drawings

[0020] These features and advantages, as well as others, will be described in detail in the following description of particular embodiments, given by way of non-limiting example, in relation to the accompanying figures, among which:

[0021] [Fig.1A] is a partial cross-sectional view schematically representing an example of a photovoltaic cell assembly;

[0022] [Fig.1B] is a partial perspective view of the assembly of [Fig.1A];

[0023] [Fig.1C] is a top view showing a detail of one of the cells photovoltaics of the assembly of the [Fig.1A];

[0024] [Fig.2A] is a top view schematically representing a photovoltaic plate allowing two photovoltaic cells of the type of photovoltaic cells of the assembly of [Fig.1A] to be obtained by cutting;

[0025] [Fig.2B] is a top view schematically representing an assembly of several photovoltaic cells of [Fig.2A], forming all or part of a string of cells;

[0026] [Fig.2C] is a top view schematically representing a group of two rosaries assembled in parallel, similar to the rosary in [Fig.2B];

[0027] [Fig.3] is a top view representing a photovoltaic module according to one embodiment;

[0028] [Fig.4A] is a top view representing a photovoltaic module according to an example of an embodiment;

[0029] [Fig.4B] is a top view representing a photovoltaic module according to a variant of the embodiment example of [Fig.4A];

[0030] [Fig.5] is a top view representing a photovoltaic module according to another embodiment;

[0031] [Fig. 6] is a top view representing a photovoltaic module according to another example of implementation;

[0032] [Fig.7] is a top view representing a photovoltaic module according to another embodiment;

[0033] [Fig. 8] is a top view representing a photovoltaic module according to another example of implementation;

[0034] Fig. 9 is a top view representing a photovoltaic module according to one embodiment; and

[0035] [Fig. 10] is a top view representing a photovoltaic module according to another embodiment. Description of the implementation methods

[0036] The same elements have been designated by the same reference numerals in the different figures. In particular, the structural and / or functional elements common to the different embodiments may have the same reference numerals and may have identical structural, dimensional and material properties.

[0037] For the sake of clarity, only the steps and elements necessary for understanding the described embodiments have been shown and detailed. In particular, the fabrication of the photovoltaic cells constituting the described assemblies has not been detailed, as the fabrication of such photovoltaic cells is within the capabilities of a person skilled in the art, based on the information provided in this description.

[0038] Unless otherwise specified, when referring to two elements connected together, this means directly connected without intermediate elements other than conductors, and when referring to two elements coupled together, this means that these two elements can be connected or linked through one or more other elements.

[0039] In the following description, when reference is made to absolute position qualifiers, such as the terms "front", "back", "top", "bottom", "left", "right", etc., or relative position qualifiers, such as the terms "above", "below", "superior", "inferior", etc., or to orientation qualifiers, such as the terms "horizontal", "vertical", etc., reference is made, unless otherwise specified, to the orientation of the figures, it being understood that, in practice, the photovoltaic modules described may be oriented differently.

[0040] In the following description, when a cell is referred to, unless otherwise specified, it refers to a photovoltaic cell, and when a module is referred to, unless otherwise specified, it refers to a photovoltaic module. In the following description, when a group is referred to, unless otherwise specified, it refers to a group of strings, or grouping of rosaries, a photovoltaic module comprising one or more groups of rosaries, not necessarily all identical.

[0041] In the following description, the "length" of a photovoltaic cell in a cell assembly refers to the dimension of that cell in the direction of cell alignment in the assembly, which corresponds to the X direction shown in the figures, and the "width" of a photovoltaic cell refers to the dimension of that cell in a direction orthogonal to the direction of cell alignment, corresponding to the Y direction shown in the figures. The same convention is used for the cell assembly. In the figures that follow, the length of a rectangular cell may correspond to the dimension of its shorter sides, and the width of a cell may correspond to the dimension of its longer sides.

[0042] In the following description, the "principal plane" refers to the plane in which the photovoltaic cells of a cell assembly are located, corresponding to the XY plane shown in the figures. This principal plane may also correspond to the plane of the photovoltaic plates.

[0043] In the following description, the terms "longitudinal" and "longitudinally" refer to the direction of length, which corresponds to the X direction identified in the figures, and the terms "transverse" and "transversely" refer to the direction of width, which corresponds to the Y direction identified in the figures.

[0044] Unless otherwise specified, the expressions "approximately", "roughly", and "on the order of" mean to within 10% or 10°, preferably to within 5% or 5°.

[0045] Fig. 1A is a partial cross-sectional view schematically representing an example of a photovoltaic cell assembly 1 of 3. Fig. 1B is a partial perspective view of the assembly in Fig. 1A. Fig. 1C is a top view showing a detail of one of the photovoltaic cells 3 of the assembly 1 in Fig. 1A. Fig. 1A is a cross-section along plane AA of Fig. 1B. Fig. 1B is a partial perspective view of the rear face of assembly 1. Fig. 1C is a partial top view of the front face of assembly 1.

[0046] Assembly 1 can be referred to as a string of photovoltaic cells, or string, or even as a chain.

[0047] The cells 3 are rectangular plates in the form of plates and are arranged side by side in the same principal plane XY. The long sides of adjacent cells are separated by a distance 4. The dimension of the long sides, or width of the assembly 1, is typically between 125 mm and 210 mm; for example, it is on the order of 156 mm, or on the order of 182 mm, or on the order of 210 mm. The short sides of the cells 3 typically have dimensions between one twenty-fourth (1 / 24) of the assembly width and the assembly width, for example between one third (1 / 3) of the assembly width and the assembly width.

[0048] The photovoltaic cells 3 of assembly 1 are, for example, identical, except for manufacturing variations. Neighboring cells have their long sides substantially parallel, and their short sides substantially aligned.

[0049] Each cell 3 comprises a semiconductor plate 5, for example P-doped. The semiconductor plate 5 is, for example, made of silicon. The semiconductor plate 5 may be monocrystalline or multicrystalline. The thickness of the semiconductor plate 5 is, for example, between 100 and 300 pm.

[0050] An N-type doped layer 7 is positioned on the front face of the semiconductor wafer 5, i.e., its upper face in the orientation of the view in [Fig. 1A]. The layer 7 extends, for example, over a thickness of between 0.05 and 0.1 pm. In top view, the layer 7 extends, for example, over substantially the entire front face of the semiconductor wafer 5. The layer 7 may be structured on its front face so as to trap sunlight and may be coated with an antireflective layer (not shown).

[0051] Conductive collecting structures 9 and 11 are located respectively on, and in contact with, the front and rear faces of each cell 3.

[0052] The front face collector structure 9 and the rear face collector structure 11 are each perforated to allow sunlight to reach the front and rear faces of the semiconductor plate 5.

[0053] By way of non-limiting example, as shown in [Fig. 1C], the collector structure 9 on the front face is comb-shaped, the teeth 90 of which form electrical contacts with layer 7 that are distributed, for example, regularly spaced, on the front face of layer 7. The collector structure 9 allows sunlight to reach the front face of the semiconductor plate 5 coated with layer 7 between the teeth 90 of the comb. The teeth 90 of the comb can be connected to one or more strips 91 that extend parallel to the long side of the cell 3 (in [Fig. 1C], only one strip 91 is shown, although there may be several). The teeth 90 can be regularly spaced and / or can extend to the long side opposite the strip 91. The teeth 90 have, for example, a width of between 2 and 5 µm and a pitch of between 1 and 3 mm.More generally, the front-facing collecting structure 9 can have any other shape adapted to collect the charge carriers generated in the semiconductor plate 5 of the cell 3 in a homogeneous manner.

[0054] The collecting structure 9 may be, for example, made of silver or aluminum. The collecting structure 9 may also be a layer of a transparent conductive material, for example, indium tin oxide. The collecting structure 9 may have a thickness of between 5 and 30 µm.

[0055] The collector structure 11 on the rear face is in contact with the semiconductor plate 5, for example via a layer 13 more heavily doped of type P (P+ layer) than the semiconductor plate 5. The collector structure 11 can extend continuously over substantially the entire rear face of the semiconductor plate 5. The layer 13 can also extend over the entire rear face of the semiconductor plate 5. By way of example, the collector structure 11 is a layer of aluminum or boron, and the layer 13 can result from a diffusion of aluminum into the semiconductor plate 5. Alternatively, the collector structure 11 is a layer made partly of silver and partly of aluminum.

[0056] If necessary, if it is desired that the rear face of the photovoltaic cells 3 also collect light, for example by reflection on surfaces arranged at the rear of the assembly 1, the collector structure 11 can be a perforated metallic layer, for example similar to the collector structure 9, or a layer of a transparent conductive material. When the collector structure 11 is perforated or transparent to collect light on the rear face of the cell 3, it is then referred to as a bifacial photovoltaic cell.

[0057] The collector structures 9 and 11 can be provided with connecting bars 15 and 17, typically made of silver, continuous or discontinuous, arranged respectively on the front and rear faces of the cells 3. The connecting bars 15, 17 of each cell generally extend over all or part of one long side of the cell to the other in the direction of the length of the assembly 1. Each cell 3 can thus be provided, on each front and rear face, with regularly spaced connecting bars 15, 17, for example three connecting bars as illustrated in [Fig. 1B], or more, for example ten connecting bars. Alternatively, instead of connecting bars, or even in addition, the assembly 1 can include connecting pads on the rear and front faces of the cells, wider than the connecting bars 15, 17 for better welding of the conductive ribbons 19 described later to the connecting bars 15, 17.These connection pads can in some cases be positioned on the edges of cells 3.

[0058] The cells 3 of the assembly 1 are electrically connected in series by long, thin conductive elements 19, which are conductive ribbons in the example shown. The conductive ribbons 19 are, for example, made of copper and coated with a layer of tin, lead, and / or silver alloy. The width of the conductive ribbons can be between 0.2 and 2 mm. The thickness of the conductive ribbons 19 can be between 50 and 200 µm. Alternatively, instead of conductive ribbons, they can be conductive wires.

[0059] The connecting bars 15, 17 and the conductive ribbons 19 extend longitudinally in the direction of the length of the cells 3, i.e. the direction X identified in figures 1A to IC.

[0060] Each conductive strip 19 is connected on one side to a connecting bar 17 on the front face of a cell 3 and on the other side to a connecting bar 15 on the rear face of an adjacent cell 3. Each conductive strip 19 includes an oblique portion 18 that allows the connection between the connecting bar 15 on the front face and the connecting bar 17 on the rear face, this oblique portion 18 passing between two adjacent cells 3. Thus, each conductive strip 19 passes from the front face of one cell 3 to the rear face of an adjacent cell 3 via the oblique portion 18.

[0061] Two neighboring cells are for example connected by three parallel conducting ribbons 19, regularly distributed in the direction of the width of the cells, that is to say the Y direction identified in figures IA to IC.

[0062] The number of connecting bars 15, 17 and conductive ribbons 19 linking two neighboring cells 3 together may however be different from three, for example be equal to ten, as described later in relation to figures 2A to 2C, or any other number.

[0063] At the ends, not shown, of the cell repetition 3 the conductive ribbons 19 can be connected to other similar assemblies connected in series or in parallel with the assembly 1 or to electronic devices such as converters.

[0064] During operation, when the photovoltaic cells 3 are exposed to sunlight, the current produced by each cell 3 is collected on its front face by the collector structure 9, converges towards the connecting bars 15 on its front face, and travels through the conductive strips 19 to the connecting bars 17 on the rear face of the adjacent cell. The current is distributed to the rear face of this adjacent cell by the collector structure 11. In the case of a bifacial cell, the current produced by each cell can also be collected on its rear face by the collector structure 11.

[0065] Figure 2A is a top view schematically representing a photovoltaic plate 30 from which two photovoltaic cells 3 of the type of photovoltaic cells in assembly 1 of Figure 1A can be obtained by cutting. With one photovoltaic plate 30, an assembly of two photovoltaic cells 3 can be formed, each corresponding to one half of the photovoltaic plate 30. Figure 2B is a top view schematically representing an assembly 10 of several photovoltaic cells 3 of Figure 2A, forming all or part of a string of cells. Figure 2C is a top view schematically representing a group 20 of two strings 10' assembled in parallel, similar to the string 10 of Figure 2B.

[0066] The photovoltaic plate 30 of [Fig. 2A] has a square shape. The dimensions of the sides a of the photovoltaic plate 30 can be between 125 mm and 210 mm, for example, approximately 156 mm, or approximately 182 mm, or approximately 210 mm. The photovoltaic plate 30 consists of two juxtaposed photovoltaic cells 3 joined along their long sides and intended to be separated during a cutting step along one or more cutting lines 31. Only one cutting line 31 is shown, although there may be several parallel cutting lines. The front faces of the photovoltaic cells 3 are oriented in the same direction. The photovoltaic plate 30 includes in particular collecting structures on the front and rear faces, each equipped with connecting bars such as the connecting bars 15 and 17 described previously, which can be referred to as "busbars" in English, or omnibus bars in French. In the [Fig.[2A] Only the front-facing connection bars 15 are shown, the rear-facing connection bars 17 are hidden.

[0067] The cutting line 31 is perpendicular to the direction of the connecting bars 15, that is to say extends in the direction of the width of the cells 3 (along the long side of these cells), which corresponds to the Y direction identified in [Fig.2A].

[0068] Dividing the photovoltaic plate 30 into several photovoltaic cells 3 reduces the maximum deliverable current Imp_c by each photovoltaic cell compared to the maximum deliverable current Imp_p of the photovoltaic plate, thereby reducing Joule effect losses in the photovoltaic cells. For example, by dividing the photovoltaic plate into two photovoltaic cells, the maximum deliverable current Imp_c of each photovoltaic cell is approximately equal to half the maximum deliverable current Imp_p of the photovoltaic plate, and the Joule effect losses can thus be divided by four. In the example shown, the current Imp_p of the photovoltaic plate 30 is 12 A, and the current Imp_c of each of the two photovoltaic cells 3 is 6 A.

[0069] In addition, this cut allows the conductive ribbons 19 to pass between the photovoltaic cells 3, and in particular to extend on the front and rear faces of the photovoltaic cells 3, as described above, as well as in the description of [Fig.2B] which follows.

[0070] The assembly of [Fig. 2B] forms all or part of a string 10 of photovoltaic cells 3 obtained by cutting one or more photovoltaic plates 30 along the cutting line 31, as described previously. The string 10 of [Fig. 2B] is substantially similar to the assembly 1 of [Fig. 1B], except that each cell 3 comprises ten connecting bars on each face, instead of three, and thus two adjacent cells 3 are connected by ten conductive strips 19, instead of of three. The photovoltaic cells 3 of the string 10 are connected together in series by the conductive ribbons 19. Two cells 3 have been shown in this part of the string, although there may be another number of cells connected in series with each other, for example eight as shown in [Fig.2C].

[0071] The photovoltaic cells 3 of the string 10 are identical, except for manufacturing variations.

[0072] Similar to what is shown in Figures IA and IB, each conductive ribbon 19 passes from the front face of one cell 3 to the rear face of an adjacent cell 3 by means of an oblique portion 18. Portions 19A of the conductive ribbons 19 located on the front face of the cells 3 are shown in solid lines, and portions 19B of the conductive ribbons 19 located on the rear face of the cells 3 are shown in dashed lines. For each conductive ribbon 19, portion 19A is connected to portion 19B by the oblique portion 18 that passes between two adjacent cells 3. Thus, each cell 3 comprises portions 19A for connecting the connecting bars 15 on the front face and portions 19B for connecting the connecting bars on the rear face (not shown in Figures 2A and 2B). The width of the conductive ribbons 19 can be approximately 0.4 mm. The thickness of the 19 conductive tapes can vary between 50 and 200 µm.The conductive ribbons 19 of the same longitudinal line (X direction) are shown offset in the Y direction, although two conductive ribbons 19 are generally aligned in this longitudinal line.

[0073] Since the cells 3 in the string 10 are in series, the current flowing through the string is substantially equal to the current flowing through each cell that composes it. Thus, with a maximum deliverable current Imp_c per photovoltaic cell 3 of 6A, the maximum current that can flow through the string 10 is also 6A, and it is distributed in each of the conductive strips 19 at approximately 0.6A.

[0074] Figure 2C represents a group 20 of several strings 10', similar to the string 10 of Figure 2B, except that eight cells 3 are shown in series instead of two. The group 20 comprises two strings 10' connected in parallel. Connecting two strings in parallel allows the currents of these strings to be added together, in the example shown twice 6A, i.e., 12A, without, however, doubling the voltage.

[0075] The 10' rosaries of group 20 are identical to each other, except for manufacturing variations.

[0076] The set of conductive ribbons 19 of the strings 10' is connected to an electrical collector assembly 21 comprising two electrical collectors, a collector 21A and a collector 21B, collecting all the currents carried by the conductive ribbons 19. These electrical collectors 21A and 21B are, in the following description, referred to as collector ribbons. The collector ribbons are generally These strips are significantly wider and thicker than the conductive strips 19 because they must collect a much higher current (for example, up to ten times) than the conductive strips 19, in order to avoid becoming a source of Joule heating losses. The collector strip 21A forms a negative (-) terminal of group 20, which is connected to a connection point 22A of a bypass diode 22, and the collector strip 21B forms a positive (+) terminal of group 20, which is connected to another connection point 22B of the bypass diode 22. The bypass diode 22 is designed to protect the cells 3 of group 20, particularly from the risk of overheating, or the "hot spot" effect.

[0077] Group 20 can form a photovoltaic module. Alternatively, several groups, of the type of that in [Fig.2C], can be connected in series, or even in parallel, to form a photovoltaic module.

[0078] A limitation of the assemblies described in relation to Figures IA to IC and 2A to 2C concerns the arrangement of the cells to form a compact assembly that covers the maximum proportion of the surface area of ​​a photovoltaic module. This is the case, for example, with photovoltaic modules forming surface elements of a building envelope, such as photovoltaic glazing whose dimensions may vary from one floor to another. It is also the case with photovoltaic modules forming roofing elements, such as photovoltaic tiles or slates, where the layout on a given section of the roof requires the use of different module sizes. Increasing the proportion of the surface area of ​​a photovoltaic module increases its electrical power output.The same situation arises when one wishes to replace a photovoltaic module on an existing installation. This is the case when replacing photovoltaic modules to compensate for failures or degradation of existing photovoltaic modules in an installation, or to meet the need for "repowering," that is to say, the need for a complete replacement of photovoltaic modules with new, more efficient photovoltaic modules, meaning those that produce more electrical energy for the same surface area, as they are generally manufactured using newer technologies.One of the objectives of this replacement is to enable an existing photovoltaic system to regain its former performance in the case of degraded photovoltaic modules, or even improve it in the case of repowering, while maintaining the dimensions of the mechanical structures supporting the photovoltaic modules and remaining compatible with other elements of the photovoltaic system, such as electrical collectors, junction boxes, inverters, cables, etc. The dimensions of the sides of the photovoltaic panels can be increased, for example, by 156 mm for older photovoltaic panels. to 182 mm for more modern photovoltaic panels. Therefore, many photovoltaic systems built with modules using older technologies must be replaced to incorporate wider photovoltaic cells. For example, most modules, old or new, use six strings of cells in parallel across their width: by moving from 156 mm wide cells to more efficient 182 mm wide cells, the module width is increased by 6 x 26 mm, or at least 156 mm. Thus, to use newer, more efficient cells, the mechanical supports of the modules must be completely replaced, as well as the connections and cables between the modules. Another condition for this replacement is that the replaced photovoltaic system must meet certain operating constraints, such as acceptable current and / or voltage limits.

[0079] In particular, the photovoltaic cells must be integrated into groups, or modules, having given dimensions (width and length in particular, to the nearest millimeter), while optimizing the space occupied in these groups or modules so as not to lose efficiency, and the groups or modules formed by these new photovoltaic cells must respect a maximum intensity limit, for example less than 12 Amperes (A) or less than 14 A, as well as a maximum voltage limit, for example of the order of 40 Volts (V).

[0080] The inventors propose a photovoltaic module that meets the improvement needs described above, and overcomes all or part of the disadvantages of the photovoltaic modules described above.

[0081] Embodiments of photovoltaic modules will be described below. The embodiments described are not exhaustive, and various variations will become apparent to those skilled in the art based on the information in this description.

[0082] Figure 3 is a top view representing a photovoltaic module 300 according to one embodiment. Frame (A) represents the photovoltaic module 300. Frame (B) represents photovoltaic plates 30 used to obtain the photovoltaic cells of the photovoltaic module shown in frame (A) of Figure 3.

[0083] The photovoltaic module 300 of [Fig. 3] comprises a group 305 of several strings (or chains) 311, 312, 313 connected in parallel. Each string 311, 312, 313 comprises several photovoltaic cells 301, 302, 303 electrically connected in series along the length of the cells, i.e., the X direction shown in [Fig. 3]. The strings are positioned side by side along the width of the cells, i.e., the Y direction shown in [Fig. 3]. Adjacent strings are separated by a non-zero distance in the Y direction.

[0084] Similar to what has been described previously, the cells of each rosary are in the form of rectangular plates and are arranged side by side in the same principal plane XY. Neighboring cells in the same string have their long sides opposite each other separated by a non-zero distance in the X direction, and their short sides aligned in this X direction. The dimensions of the photovoltaic cells in the same string are substantially identical, within manufacturing variations.

[0085] In the example shown, each string 311, 312, 313 comprises eight cells 301, 302, 303 in series, but any other number of cells in a string can be considered. In the example shown, the photovoltaic module 300 comprises seven strings connected in parallel, but any other number of strings can be considered.

[0086] Similar to what has been described above, each cell comprises collecting structures on the front and rear faces, each equipped with continuous or discontinuous connecting bars, optionally with connecting studs, which may be referred to as "busbars" in English, or "bus bars" in French. In frame (B) of [Fig. 3], only the connecting bars 315 on the front face are shown, the connecting bars on the rear face being hidden. The connecting bars 315 are, for example, made of silver.

[0087] Similar to what has been described above, neighboring cells of the same string are electrically connected in series by conductive ribbons 319, shown in frame (A) of [Fig. 3], which are, for example, made of copper, possibly coated with a tin alloy. The width of the conductive ribbons can be between 0.2 and 2 mm, for example, about 0.4 mm. The thickness of the conductive ribbons can be between 50 and 200 µm, for example, about 200 µm. Alternatively, instead of conductive ribbons, they can be conductive wires. The conductive ribbons 319 can pass between two adjacent cells of the same string, and in particular extend successively across the front and rear faces of two adjacent cells of the same string, as described in connection with [Fig. 2B].

[0088] The connecting bars 315 and the conducting ribbons 319 extend substantially in the X direction. The connecting bars 315 and the conducting ribbons 319 of the same chain are preferably regularly distributed in the Y direction.

[0089] The photovoltaic module 300 of [Fig.3] differs from the assembly 20 of [Fig.2C] mainly in that it comprises at least two different strings, in which the widths of the photovoltaic cells, i.e. the dimensions in the Y direction, are different, the lengths of the cells of these two strings being equal in this example.

[0090] In the example shown, group 305 comprises: - strings 311 (first strings) comprising cells 301 (first photovoltaic cells), each having a width 11 (first width) in the Y direction; and - strings 312 (second strings) comprising cells 302 (second photovoltaic cells), each having a width 12 (second width) in the Y direction, the width 12 being less than the width 11; and - 313 strings (third strings) comprising 303 cells (third photovoltaic cells) each having a width 13 (third width) in the Y direction, the width 13 being less than the width 11 and the width 12.

[0091] In the example shown in [Fig.3], the photovoltaic module 300 comprises two strings 311, two strings 312, and three strings 313, but other numbers of strings 311, 312, 313 can be envisaged.

[0092] In the example shown, the width 12 is substantially equal to half the width 11, and the width 13 is less than 20% of the width 11. Other cell widths in the different strings can be considered. For example, as described later, the width 11 is approximately 182 mm (corresponding to the side of a square photovoltaic plate with sides of 182 mm uncut in the X direction of the length), the width 12 is approximately 91 mm (corresponding to the side of the square photovoltaic plate with sides of 182 mm cut in half in the X direction of the length) and the width 13 is less than 36.4 mm.

[0093] More generally, other combinations of different strings in a group, as well as different numbers and different widths of cells in these different strings, can be envisaged.

[0094] As shown in [Fig. 3], the number of conductive ribbons 319 connecting the adjacent cells 301, 302, 303 of a string 311, 312, 313 depends on the width of the cells in that string. The number of conductive ribbons 319 increases with the width of the cells. This allows the current to be distributed among the different ribbons and, for example, to comply with a maximum current limit for each conductive ribbon. This maximum current limit depends on the characteristics of the conductive ribbon, for example, its width, thickness, and / or material, and can be, for example, between 0.4 and 0.6 Amperes (A).

[0095] The number of conductive ribbons 319 carrying the current in each string should preferably remain proportional, or in slightly greater proportion, to the current carried in that string.

[0096] The set of conductive ribbons 319 in the group 305 of strings 311, 312, 313 is connected to an electrical collector assembly 320 comprising two electrical collectors, a collector 320A and a collector 320B, collecting all the currents carried by the conductive ribbons 319. The electrical collectors 320A and 320B are designated collector ribbons. The collector ribbons 320A and 320B are generally significantly wider and thicker than the conductive ribbons 319 because They must collect a stronger current (for example, up to ten times) than the conductive strips 319, in order to avoid becoming a source of Joule heating losses.

[0097] In this example, the two collector strips 320A and 320B surround the group 305 of strings. The collector strip 320A forms a negative (-) terminal of the group 305, which is connected to a connection point 322A of a bypass diode 322. The collector strip 320B forms a positive (+) terminal of the group 305, which is connected to another connection point 322B of the bypass diode 322. The bypass diode 322 is intended to protect the cells of the group 305 of strings, particularly from the risk of overheating, or the "hot spot" effect. The bypass diode 322 is oriented in the direction of the current, represented by the arrows in frame (A) of [Fig.3].

[0098] The group 305 of strings 311, 312, 313 can alone form the photovoltaic module 300, as shown in [Fig. 3]. Alternatively, several groups, of the type of group 305 in [Fig. 3], could be connected in series, or even in parallel, to form a larger photovoltaic module.

[0099] As shown in frame (B) of [Fig. 3], to obtain the photovoltaic cells for the various strings, one can start with several identical photovoltaic plates 30, and in this example, similar to the photovoltaic plate of [Fig. 2A]. In the example shown, each photovoltaic plate 30 has a square shape in top view, with a side a of approximately 182 mm, and a maximum current Imp p of approximately 12 A. The side a of the photovoltaic plate 30 is equal to the width 11, as explained later. The connecting bars 315 of these photovoltaic plates 30 are preferably evenly distributed along the Y direction.

[0100] Fig. 3(B) shows a series of cuts, along cutting lines 31 (first cutting lines), of the photovoltaic plates 30 in the Y direction of the width, i.e. perpendicular to the connecting bars 315. Fig. 3(B) shows two cutting lines 31 configured so that each photovoltaic plate 30 is cut into three parts of equal length L1 in the X direction. All the photovoltaic cells 301, 302, 303 thus have a length L1, in the X direction, equal to approximately 60.7 mm. This is a variant to [Fig.2A] which shows a single cutting line 31 per photovoltaic plate in the Y direction, knowing that, according to embodiments, the photovoltaic plate could be cut in two (in this case, the length of the cells would be 91 mm) instead of three, or in any other fraction, regularly or not regularly.

[0101] The maximum current deliverable in a photovoltaic plate 30 cut into three is equal to the current Imp p divided by three, i.e. about 4 A for a photovoltaic plate 30 of 12 A.

[0102] The cells 301 are formed solely from the cuts 31, without any other cuts, and in particular without any cuts in the X direction of the length. The cells 301 therefore have a width 11 (first width), in the Y direction, equal to the side a of the photovoltaic plate, i.e. approximately 182 mm.

[0103] To form each string 311, eight cells 301 are connected in series in the direction X, in particular using the conducting ribbons 319. The current carried in each string 311 is equal to the maximum current of the cells 301, i.e. of the photovoltaic plate 30 cut into three, i.e. about 4 A.

[0104] To obtain the cells 302 and cells 303, in addition to the cuts 31, some photovoltaic plates 30 are cut into several parts, preferably equal, in the X direction, i.e. parallel to the connecting bars 315. The cuts in the X direction are made according to the cutting lines 32 (second cutting lines).

[0105] Preferably, each cut line 32 is located between two adjacent connecting bars 315, equidistant from these two connecting bars, for example to maintain a regular distribution of the connecting bars 315 in the formed cells 302, 303. In other words, the cuts 32 are preferably made so that the semiconductor width (semiconductor plate 5 described in connection with [Fig. 1A]) on either side of each second cut 32 is substantially equal to half the distance between two adjacent connecting bars 315.

[0106] The cells 302 are formed using a single cut 32 made in the middle of the photovoltaic plates 30, i.e., centered in the Y direction. In other words, the photovoltaic plates 30 are cut in the X direction into two parts of equal width 12. The cells 302 therefore each have a width 12 (second width) equal to half the side a of the photovoltaic plate 30, i.e., approximately 91 mm. By this additional cut, the maximum current deliverable in the photovoltaic plate 30, already cut into three parts, is halved, i.e., approximately 2 A.

[0107] To form each string 312, eight cells 302 are connected in series in the direction X, in particular using the conducting ribbons 319. The current carried in each string 312 is equal to the maximum current of the cells 302, i.e. of the photovoltaic plate 30 cut into three and then into two, i.e. about 2 A (4 A divided by two).

[0108] The cells 303 are formed by means of several cuts 32 of the photovoltaic plates 30, the cut lines 32 being regularly distributed in the Y direction. In other words, the photovoltaic plates 30 are cut in the X direction into more than two parts of equal width 13, in the example five parts of equal width 13. The cells 303 each have a width 13 (third width) equal to approximately 18% of the side of the photovoltaic plate, or about 32.7 mm, and not 20%. The width 13 is equal to twice the dBB distance between two adjacent 315 connection bars. The side of the plate a is equal to 11 times dBB and the width 13 of the 303 cells is equal to 2 dBB, therefore the width 13 is equal to 2 / 11 of side a, or approximately 18% and 32.7 mm for a side a equal to 182 mm.

[0109] In addition, so that the cells 303 are all substantially identical, with two connecting bars regularly distributed in each cell 303, a cutout 32 is made at an equal distance between each longitudinal edge 30A (edge ​​which extends in the X direction) of the photovoltaic plate 30 and the connecting bar 315 closest to this longitudinal edge.

[0110] It should be noted that, according to one embodiment, to form the cells 302, or even the cells 301, a cut 32 can also be made equidistant between each longitudinal edge 30A of the photovoltaic plate 30 and the connecting bar 315 nearest to that longitudinal edge, similarly to what is done for the cells 303. Cells 302 with a width of approximately 82 mm, instead of 91 mm, could thus be formed. Similarly, cells 301 with a width of approximately 172 mm, instead of 182 mm, could thus be formed.

[0111] To form each string 313, eight cells 303 are connected in series in the direction X, in particular using the conducting ribbons 319. The current carried in each string 313 is equal to the maximum current of the cells 303, i.e. of the photovoltaic plate 30 cut into three and then reduced to 18%, i.e. about 0.72 A (18% of 4 A).

[0112] Thus, in the configuration of [Fig.3], the group 305 of the seven strings 311, 312, 313 of cells 301, 302, 303 is configured to carry a total of about 14.2 A. It is possible to adjust the total intensity of the group 315 of strings, for example by reducing it, for example by removing one or more of the strings 311, 312, 313, and / or by adapting the widths and / or lengths of the cells 301, 302, 303 in all or part of these strings.

[0113] The embodiments thus allow great adaptability in the production of photovoltaic cells from standard photovoltaic plates, so as to form photovoltaic modules which can adapt to different size and / or operating constraints.

[0114] Figures 4A to 10 below illustrate several embodiments of strings and groups of strings. Each group of strings can form a photovoltaic module or be part of a larger photovoltaic module. A photovoltaic module can comprise several identical groups of strings and / or several different groups of strings. To simplify Figures 4A to 10, neither the cell connection bars nor the conductive ribbons are shown. The electrical collectors, or collector ribbons, shown in Figures 4A to 10 and described below, are connected to the conductive ribbons (not shown) of the ribbons. The collector ribbons are part of an electrical collector assembly. For short, a collector ribbon can be referred to simply as a ribbon.

[0115] In Figures 4A to 10 below, the flow of current I in the strings is represented by thick solid arrows, and a negative terminal (terminal -) and a positive terminal (terminal +) are shown between which the current flows. Each of the - and + terminals is generally connected to an output cable. Each group of strings generally includes at least one bypass circuit with a bypass diode, usually contained in a junction box that has two poles. Each pole of a junction box is connected to one of the two connection points of the bypass diode contained in that junction box, so that by connecting to one of the poles of the junction box, one connects to one of the connection points of the bypass diode.

[0116] The photovoltaic cells in Figures 4A to 8 all have the same length L1 in the X direction. This length L1 is, for example, approximately 60.7 mm, similar to the photovoltaic cells in [Fig. 3]. This is not limiting; two different strings may have cells of different lengths, or even a single string may have cells of different lengths and widths, as shown, for example, in Figures 9 and 10.

[0117] The string groups in Figures 4A to 8 include strings 411, 411' comprising photovoltaic cells 401, 401' each having a width 11.11' in the Y direction and strings 412, 412' comprising photovoltaic cells 402, 402' each having a width 12.12' in the Y direction, the width 12.12' being less than the width 11.11'. The width 12 may be about half the width 11. By way of example, the width 11.11' may be about 182 mm, or about 172 mm, as described further in connection with [Fig. 3]. As an example, the width 12.12' can be approximately 91 mm, or approximately 82 mm, as described further in connection with [Fig.3].The strings 411, 411', 412, 412' each comprise a number N of photovoltaic cells 401, 401', 402, 402' electrically connected together in series in the X direction, this number N being non-limiting, and being able to vary for example between 1 and 30, or between 4 and 30, or even between 8 and 30, for example be equal to 4, 6, 8, 12, 22 or 26. .

[0118] Fig. 4A is a top view representing a 400 photovoltaic module according to an example embodiment.

[0119] The photovoltaic module 400 comprises a group 405 of P strings, where P equals four in this example: two strings 411 and two strings 412. The strings are electrically connected in parallel. The two 411 strings are positioned along the two longitudinal edges 400A of the module 400, while the two 412 strings are positioned longitudinally in the center of the module 400, between the two 411 strings.

[0120] The 400 photovoltaic module further comprises an electrical collector assembly 420 comprising several collector ribbons: a longitudinal ribbon 423 extending between the two strings 412, a transverse ribbon 424 to a first transverse edge 400B of the module, and a transverse ribbon 425 to a second transverse edge 400C of the module, opposite the first transverse edge 400B. A junction box 321 connects the transverse ribbon 424 to a first end of the longitudinal ribbon 423. Another junction box 321' connects the transverse ribbon 425 to a second end, opposite the first end, of the longitudinal ribbon 423. Thus, the longitudinal ribbon 423 extends between junction box 321 and junction box 321'. Each junction box 321, 321' is equipped with a bypass diode 322, 322', similar to the diode described in connection with [Fig. 3]. Each of the two poles of each junction box 321, 321' is connected to one of the two connection pads of the bypass diode 322, 322' which is included in that junction box.

[0121] The crossbar 424 constitutes a positive (+) terminal, corresponding to the upper pole of the junction box 321, and the crossbar 425 constitutes a negative (-) terminal, corresponding to the lower pole of the junction box 321', with current flowing in the strings 411, 412 between the negative and positive terminals. The upper pole of the junction box 321, connected to the crossbar 424, can be connected to a cable that will constitute the positive (+) output cable of the module 400. The lower pole of the junction box 321', connected to the crossbar 425, can be connected to a cable that will constitute the negative (-) output cable of the module 400.

[0122] The transverse ribbons 424, 425 are intended to collect the current from one string to another.

[0123] In order to retain only one bypass diode within this module 400, one of the two bypass diodes 322, 322' in one of the two junction boxes 321, 321' could be replaced by a conductive connector short-circuiting the two poles of this junction box.

[0124] In this example, a longitudinal ribbon 423 is shown extending between the two strings 412, but the longitudinal ribbon 423 could extend between two other strings, or to the right or left of the group 405 of strings. More generally, a person skilled in the art could consider any other electrical collector assembly, with one or more junction boxes each equipped with a bypass diode.

[0125] A module with such an electrical connection may be designated as a linear module, or linear in English (L).

[0126] For a photovoltaic plate with sides of 182 mm, similar to the photovoltaic plate 30 of [Fig. 3], whose maximum current is Imp_p, a width 11 equal to 182 mm, a width 12 equal to 91 mm, and a cell length L1 equal to 60.7 mm, the inventors have determined that the maximum current Imp_c2 in each cell 401 and thus each string 411 is equal to 0.333 Imp_p and that the maximum current Imp_c2 in each cell 402 and thus each string 412 is equal to 0.167 Imp_p. By adding the currents of the four strings, the maximum current of the module 400 is determined, which in this case is equal to the nominal current Imp_p of the photovoltaic plate 30.

[0127] The 405 string group of [Fig. 4A] may be part of a larger photovoltaic module, as described later in connection with [Fig. 6] or [Fig. 7]. For example, a larger photovoltaic module may include several string groups similar to the 405 string group of [Fig. 4A], for example, several string groups comprising different numbers N of cells between the groups.

[0128] Fig. 4B is a top view representing a 400' photovoltaic module according to a variant of the embodiment example of Fig. 4A.

[0129] The photovoltaic module 400' of [Fig. 4B] differs from that of [Fig. 4A] in that the two strings 411, 411' (along the two longitudinal edges 400A of the module 400') of the group 405' are not identical, the string 411' comprising cells 401' whose width 11' is less than the width 11 of the cells 401 of the string 411. For example, the width 11' is equal to 172 mm for the string 411' and the width 11 is equal to 182 mm for the string 411. It is thus possible to reduce the maximum current of the module, since the maximum current in the cells 401', and thus in the string 411', is 0.315 Impp instead of 0.333 Impp. Adding this current with the currents of the three other strings 411, 412, 412' we determine the maximum current of the module 400', which in this case is less than or equal to 0.982 Imp _p, that is to say less than the nominal current Imp p of the photovoltaic plate 30.

[0130] Furthermore, the two rosaries in the center of the module 400' can be different. For example, the rosary 412' can include cells 402' whose width 12' is less than the width 12 of the cells 402 of the rosary 412, for example the width 12' is equal to 82 mm, and the width 12 is equal to 91 mm.

[0131] In the module examples in Figures 4A and 4B, it can be seen that the current I flows in the same direction in all the strings between the positive terminal (-) and the negative terminal (+).

[0132] Fig. 5 is a top view representing a 500 photovoltaic module according to another embodiment.

[0133] The 500 photovoltaic module of [Fig.5] differs from that of [Fig.4A] in the way the strings are connected together, the group 405 of strings being otherwise similar to that of [Fig.4A].

[0134] The electrical collector assembly 520 of [Fig. 5] comprises a transverse ribbon 524 to a first transverse edge 500B of the module, a transverse ribbon 525 to a second transverse edge 500C of the module, opposite the first transverse edge 500B, and two central transverse ribbons 526A, 526B insulated from each other and positioned between the transverse ribbon 524 and the transverse ribbon 525, for example halfway between the transverse ribbon 524 and the transverse ribbon 525. The central transverse ribbon 526A connects the cells 401, 402 of the two left-hand strings 411, 412, while the central transverse ribbon 526B connects the cells 401, 402 of the two right-hand strings 411, 412. The two central transverse ribbons 526A, 526B allow the rosaries of the upper part to be paralleled with the rosaries of the lower part.The two upper left-hand chains are connected in series to the two upper right-hand chains by the transverse ribbon 524. The two lower left-hand chains are connected in series to the two lower right-hand chains by the transverse ribbon 525. The central transverse ribbon 526A has a negative terminal (-) at its left end and the central transverse ribbon 526B has a positive terminal (+) at its right end.

[0135] A junction box 321, equipped with a bypass diode 322, similar to the diode described in connection with [Fig.3], is positioned between, and connects, the two central transverse strips 526A and 526B, forming a bypass circuit.

[0136] The positive terminal (+) can be connected to a cable which will constitute the positive (+) output cable of the 500 module. The negative terminal (-) can be connected to a cable which will constitute the negative (-) output cable of the 500 module.

[0137] Any other electrical collector assembly may be considered by a person skilled in the art.

[0138] It can be seen that the current I flows in opposite directions depending on the location of the chains. In the two chains 411, 412 on the left (negative terminal side (-)), the current I flows from the central transverse ribbon 526A to the transverse ribbon 524 and to the transverse ribbon 525, while in the two chains 411, 412 on the right (positive terminal side (+)), the current I flows from the transverse ribbon 524 and from the transverse ribbon 525 to the central transverse ribbon 526B.

[0139] A module with such an electrical connection may be designated as a butterfly module, or Butterfly in English (B).

[0140] This type of configuration, known as Butterfly, allows the longitudinal ribbon 423 of Figures 4A and 4B to be replaced by the much shorter transverse ribbons 526A and 526B. This offers the initial advantage of saving conductive material and a second advantage of a smaller occupation of the non-active module surface, which increases the efficiency, or yield, of this module.

[0141] In the case of a Butterfly module, the lengths of the output cables (+ and -) interconnecting adjacent modules connected along their width, i.e. with their long adjacent sides positioned edge to edge, can be very short.

[0142] In the case of a linear type module, it is the lengths of the output cables (+ and -) interconnecting adjacent modules connected along their length, i.e. with their small adjacent sides positioned edge to edge, which can be very short.

[0143] Twenty-six cells 401, 401', 402, 402' are represented by a string 411, 411', 412, 412' in Figures 4A, 4B and 5, but there could be any other number N of cells. As previously stated, N can vary between 1 and 30, for example between 4 and 30, or between 8 and 30, for example be equal to 4, 6, 8, 12, 22 or 26.

[0144] Fig. 6 is a top view representing a 600 photovoltaic module according to another embodiment.

[0145] The photovoltaic module 600 of [Fig.6] differs from that of [Fig.4A] in that it comprises a group 601 of strings, similar to the group 405 of strings of [Fig.4A], and another group 602 of strings electrically connected in series with the group 601 in the X direction. The two groups 601, 602 are aligned in the X direction.

[0146] Group 602 is similar to group 601, except that the four strings 611, 612 of group 602 each have 6 cells 401, 402 connected in series in the X direction, instead of 26 cells for strings 411, 412 of group 601. Each string 611, 612 of group 602 is aligned in the X direction with a string 411, 412 of the same width from group 601.

[0147] The electrical collector assembly 620 of the module 600 includes, in addition to the longitudinal ribbon 423, the transverse ribbon 424, and the transverse ribbon 425 of the collector assembly 420 described in connection with [Fig.4A], a transverse ribbon 627 at the first transverse edge 600B of the module 600 to collect the current from the group 602 (which is between the transverse ribbon 424 and the transverse ribbon 627). The transverse ribbon 424 is located between group 601 and group 602. The transverse ribbon 425 is at the second transverse edge 600C of module 600. The longitudinal ribbon 423 is connected at one end to the transverse ribbon 627 via a junction box 321 equipped with a bypass diode 322. The longitudinal ribbon 423 is connected at the other end to the transverse ribbon 425 via another junction box 321' equipped with another bypass diode 322'. The longitudinal ribbon 423 and the transverse ribbon 424 are connected together at their point of intersection.Each of the two poles of each junction box 321, 321' is connected to one of the two connection pads of the bypass diode 322, 322' which. is contained within this junction box. Thus, the longitudinal strip 423 extends between the junction boxes 321 and 321', and is connected to each of the transverse strips 425 and 627 via a bypass diode 322, 322'. The transverse strip 627 constitutes a positive terminal (+), corresponding to the upper pole of the junction box 321, and the transverse strip 425 constitutes a negative terminal (-), corresponding to the lower pole of the junction box 321'. Current flows in the strings 411, 412, 611, 612 between the negative terminal (-) and the positive terminal (+). The upper pole (+) of the junction box 321 can be connected to a cable which will constitute the positive output cable (+) of the module 600. The lower pole (-) of the junction box 321' can be connected to a cable which will constitute the negative output cable (-) of the module 600.

[0148] We see that the current I flows in the same direction in all the strings between the negative terminal (-) and the positive terminal (+).

[0149] Fig. 7 is a top view representing a 700 photovoltaic module according to another embodiment.

[0150] The photovoltaic module 700 of [Fig. 7] differs from that of [Fig. 6] in that, in addition to group 701, which is similar to group 601 of [Fig. 6], it comprises another group 703, also similar to group 601 of [Fig. 6], with groups 701 and 703 aligned with each other in the Y direction, and yet another group 702, which corresponds to a juxtaposition in the Y direction of two groups 602 of [Fig. 6] (without a longitudinal band crossing these groups 602). These two groups 602 are connected in series, so that this is equivalent to doubling the number of cells per string, in this example to having twelve cells per string instead of six. Group 702 is positioned above the two groups 701, 703, and is aligned in the X direction with these two groups 701, 703. Each 611, 612 chain of group 702 is aligned in the X direction with a 411, 412 chain of the same width from group 701 or group 703.

[0151] The electrical collector assembly 720 of the module 700 corresponds practically to a combination of two collector assemblies 620, with the longitudinal ribbons 423 (423A and 423B), the transverse ribbons 424 (424A and 424B), the transverse ribbons 425 (425A and 425B), and the transverse ribbons 627 (627A and 627B) described in connection with [Fig. 6], except that the longitudinal ribbons 423A and 423B do not extend into group 702. The two transverse ribbons 425A and 425B are insulated from each other. The two transverse ribbons 627A and 627B are connected to each other. The two transverse strips 424A and 424B are each connected to a junction box 321 equipped with a bypass diode 322, the junction box 321 being between the transverse strips 424A and 424B.The longitudinal strip 423A and the transverse strip 425A are each connected to another junction box 321” equipped with another bypass diode 322”, the junction box 321” being between the longitudinal strip 423A and the . Transverse ribbon 425A. The longitudinal ribbon 423B and the transverse ribbon 425B are each connected to yet another junction box 321' equipped with yet another bypass diode 322', the junction box 321' being between the longitudinal ribbon 423B and the transverse ribbon 425B. The longitudinal ribbon 423A and the transverse ribbon 424A are connected together at their point of intersection. The longitudinal ribbon 423B and the transverse ribbon 424B are connected together at their point of intersection.

[0152] Each of the two poles of each junction box 321, 321', 321" is connected to one of the two connection pads of the bypass diode 322, 322', 322" which is included in this junction box.

[0153] The transverse ribbon 425B constitutes a positive terminal (+), corresponding to the upper pole of the junction box 321', and the transverse ribbon 425A constitutes a negative terminal (-), corresponding to the lower pole of the junction box 321'. The lower pole (+) of the junction box 321' can be connected to a cable that will constitute the positive output cable (+) of the module 700. The lower pole (-) of the junction box 321' can be connected to a cable that will constitute the negative output cable (-) of the module 700.

[0154] We see that the current I flows in a direction that starts from the negative terminal (-) in all the strings of group 701 and in the opposite direction that goes towards the positive terminal (+) in all the strings of group 703. In the left part of group 702, the current flows in the same direction as in group 701, and in the right part of group 702, the current flows in the same direction as in group 703.

[0155] Fig. 8 is a top view representing an 800 photovoltaic module according to another embodiment.

[0156] The 800 photovoltaic module of [Fig. 8] differs from the 500 module of [Fig. 5] in that the 805 string of cells comprises six strings 811, 812, instead of four strings 411, 412 in the 505 string of [Fig. 5]. Thus, two strings have been added in series compared to the 505 string of [Fig. 5]. Each string of cells 811 comprises 33 cells 401 connected in series in the X direction, similar to the cells 401 of [Fig. 4A]. Each string of cells 812 comprises 33 cells 402 connected in series in the X direction, similar to the cells 402 of [Fig. 4A]. We have represented 33 cells 401, 402 per chain 811, 812, but there could be any other number of cells linked in series in each chain, for example 26 as in the other examples. The chains are grouped into three pairs 801, 802, 803 of chains 811 and 812.

[0157] The electrical collector assembly 820 of the module 800 differs from the electrical collector assembly 520 of [Fig.5], in that it further comprises: - another transverse ribbon 824 at the first transverse edge 800B of the module 800 for the two added strings 811, 812, this other transverse ribbon 824 being isolated from the transverse ribbon 524; - another transverse ribbon 825 at the second transverse edge 800C of module 800 for the two added chains 811, 812, this other transverse ribbon 825 being isolated from the transverse ribbon 525; and - a longitudinal ribbon 827 to the right of the two added strings, this longitudinal ribbon being connected to the transverse ribbon 824 and to the transverse ribbon 825, but being isolated from the central transverse ribbon 526B.

[0158] In addition to the junction box 321 equipped with the bypass diode 322, another junction box 321' equipped with another bypass diode 322' is positioned between, and connects, the central transverse strip 526B and the longitudinal strip 827.

[0159] The electrical collector assembly 820 has a positive terminal (+) at the right end of the junction box 321' on the longitudinal ribbon 827 and a negative terminal (-) at the left end of the transverse ribbon 526A.

[0160] This electrical collector assembly configuration allows the current I to flow in opposite directions according to the pairs of chains. In the example shown, the current I flows from the central transverse ribbon 526A to the transverse ribbon 524 and to the transverse ribbon 525 in the pair 801 of strings closest to the negative terminal (-), from the transverse ribbon 524 and the transverse ribbon 525 to the central transverse ribbon 526B in the central pair 802 of strings, and from the central transverse ribbon 526B to the transverse ribbon 824 and to the transverse ribbon 825 in the pair 803 of strings closest to the positive terminal (+), then the current returns to the positive terminal (+) via the longitudinal ribbon 827 connected to ribbons 824 and 825. In other words, the direction of the current alternates from one pair of strings to another adjacent pair of strings.

[0161] Figures 4A to 8 show several examples of string groups and several examples of modules. A person skilled in the art may consider other modules, for example by varying the number N of cells in the different strings, the widths of the cells in the different strings, the lengths of the cells in the different strings, the number P of strings in each group, and / or the number M of groups in the module. A person skilled in the art will be able to define a suitable electrical collector assembly for the module.

[0162] In particular, examples are shown in Figures 4A to 8 where each chain comprises cells of identical dimensions. This is not limiting, and it is conceivable that at least one chain may comprise cells of different dimensions, but preferably of substantially equal area. An example of this variant is described below in connection with [Fig. 9].

[0163] In addition, it is possible to have at least two strings linked together in series. An example of this variant is described below in connection with [Fig. 10].

[0164] These two variants can be combined with each other and / or with any example or embodiment described above.

[0165] In the figures 9 and 10 that follow, a photovoltaic plate of side a is considered, used to form the photovoltaic cells of the strings.

[0166] Fig. 9 is a top view representing a 900 photovoltaic module according to an alternative implementation.

[0167] The photovoltaic module 900 of [Fig. 9] comprises a group 905 of two strings 911 and 912 connected in parallel. String 911 comprises four cells 901 of length a / 3 and width a, in series with four cells 901' of length a / V3 and width a / V3. Thus, all the cells of string 911 have the same area, equal to a2 / 3. String 912 comprises eight cells 902 of length a / 3 and width a / 2.

[0168] The electrical collector assembly 920 is configured to connect the strings 911, 912 together in parallel, and to connect this group 905 of strings to the negative (-) terminal and the positive (+) terminal. The collector assembly 920 includes a bypass circuit comprising a bypass diode 322.

[0169] A person skilled in the art may consider any other combination of cells of equal surface area in the strings, and adapt the electrical collector assembly to electrically connect the strings together and to the negative and positive terminals.

[0170] The module of [Fig.9] can correspond to a group of strings of a larger photovoltaic module.

[0171] Fig. 10 is a top view representing a 1000 photovoltaic module according to one embodiment variant.

[0172] The photovoltaic module 1000 of [Fig. 10] comprises a group 1005 of three strings: two strings 1011 and 1012 connected in parallel, and another string 1013 connected in series with these two strings. String 1011 comprises eight cells 901 of length a / 3 and width a. String 1012 comprises eight cells 902 of length a / 3 and width a / 2. String 1013 comprises four cells 903 of length aJl and width a.

[0173] The electrical collector assembly 1020 is configured to connect the strings 1011 and 1012 together in parallel, the string 1013 in series with the strings 1011 and 1012, and to connect this group 1005 of strings to the negative (-) terminal and the positive (+) terminal. The collector assembly 1020 includes a bypass circuit comprising a bypass diode 322.

[0174] A person skilled in the art may consider any other combination of cells in the strings, and adapt the electrical collector assembly to electrically connect the strings together and to the negative and positive terminals.

[0175] The module of [Fig.10] can correspond to a group of strings of a larger photovoltaic module.

[0176] Various embodiments and variations have been described. Those skilled in the art will understand that certain features of these various embodiments and variations could be combined, and other variations will become apparent to them. In particular, the embodiments described are not limited to the examples of cell dimensions mentioned in this description, and to the examples of the number N of cells, the number P of strings, and the number M of groups also mentioned in this description.

[0177] In addition, a photovoltaic module may include, in addition to a group of strings comprising different cell widths between the strings, a group of strings whose cells have the same widths, or even a group of a single string.

[0178] In addition, although the described photovoltaic cells each comprise a P-type doped semiconductor plate having, on the front face, an N-type doped layer, as an alternative, each cell may comprise an N-type doped semiconductor plate having, on the front face, a P-type doped layer.

[0179] Finally, the practical implementation of the embodiments and variants described is within the reach of a person skilled in the art, based on the functional indications given above.

Claims

Demands

1. Photovoltaic module (300; 400; 400'; 500; 600; 700; 800; 900; 1000) comprising at least one group (305; 405; 405'; 601, 602; 701, 702, 703; 805; 905; 1005) of strings of photovoltaic cells extending along a principal plane (XY), the photovoltaic cells of the same string being electrically connected together in series along a first direction (X) of the principal plane, each group comprising at least: - a first string (311; 411; 411'; 811; 911; 1011) comprising first photovoltaic cells (301; 401; 401'; 901, 901') among the photovoltaic cells, the first photovoltaic cells each having a first width (11; 11') in a second direction (Y) of the principal plane, perpendicular to the first direction (X); and - a second string (312; 412; 412'; 812; 912; 1012) comprising second photovoltaic cells (302; 402; 402';902) among the photovoltaic cells, the second photovoltaic cells each having a second width (12; 12') in the second direction, the second width being less than the first width.;

2. Photovoltaic module (300; 400; 500; 600; 700; 800; 900; 1000) according to claim 1, wherein the second width (12) is substantially equal to half of the first width (11).

3. Photovoltaic module (300; 1000) according to claim 1 or 2, wherein a group (305; 1005) among at least one group further comprises a third string (313; 1013) comprising third photovoltaic cells (303; 903) among the photovoltaic cells, the third photovoltaic cells each having a third width (13) in the second direction (Y), the third width being different from the first width (11) and the second width (12).

4. Photovoltaic module (300) according to claim 3, wherein the third width (13) is less than or equal to 20% of the first width (11).

5. Photovoltaic module (300; 400; 500; 600; 700; 800; 900; 1000) according to any one of claims 1 to 4, wherein at least one group (305; 405; 405'; 805; 905; 1005) comprises strands electrically connected to each other in parallel, for example the first and second strands are electrically connected to each other in parallel.

6. Photovoltaic module (1000) according to any one of claims 1 to 5, wherein at least one group (1005) comprises strings electrically connected together in series, for example a third string (1013) is electrically connected in series with the first (1011) and second (1012) strings.

7. Photovoltaic module according to any one of claims 1 to 6, wherein the photovoltaic cells of the same string: - are aligned with each other in the first direction (X); and / or - all have the same surface area; and / or - all have the same width and length; or - have different widths and lengths, with equal surface area.

8. Photovoltaic module according to any one of claims 1 to 7, wherein the first and second photovoltaic cells correspond to first portions of photovoltaic plates (30) cut along at least one first cutting line (31) extending in the second direction (Y), the photovoltaic plates (30) being substantially square in shape in the principal plane.

9. Photovoltaic module according to any one of claims 1 to 8, wherein the second photovoltaic cells correspond to second portions of photovoltaic plates (30) cut along at least one second cutting line (32) extending in the first direction (X), the photovoltaic plates (30) being substantially square in the principal plane, for example the photovoltaic plates (30) being further cut into first portions along at least one first cutting line (31) extending in the second direction (Y).

10. A photovoltaic module according to any one of claims 1 to 9 in its dependence on claim 3 or 4, wherein the third photovoltaic cells (313) correspond to third portions of photovoltaic plates (30) cut along several second cutting lines (32) extending in the first direction (X), the photovoltaic plates (30) being substantially square in shape in the principal plane, for example the photovoltaic plates (30) being further cut into first portions along at least one first cutting line (31) extending in the second direction (Y).

11. Photovoltaic module according to claim 9 or 10, wherein each photovoltaic plate (30) comprises connecting bars (315) extending in the first direction (X), each second cut line (32) being positioned midway between two adjacent connecting bars and / or midway between a longitudinal edge (30A), extending in the first direction, of the photovoltaic plate and an adjacent connecting bar.

12. Photovoltaic module according to any one of claims 8 to 11, wherein the first portions have substantially equal lengths (L1) in the first direction (X), and / or the second portions (12) have substantially equal widths in the second direction (Y).

13. Photovoltaic module according to any one of claims 1 to 12, wherein the photovoltaic cells each comprise connecting bars (315) extending in the first direction (X), and the photovoltaic cells of the same string are connected to each other by conductive elements (319) extending in the first direction, for example conductive copper ribbons, the conductive elements being connected to the connecting bars of the photovoltaic cells.

14. Photovoltaic module according to claim 13, further comprising an electrical collector assembly (320; 420; 520; 620; 720; 820; 920; 1020) configured to connect together the conductive elements (319) of the different strings of the same group so as to make a current flow in the photovoltaic cells of said strings between a negative terminal and a positive terminal, the electrical collector assembly further comprising a bypass circuit comprising at least one diode (322).

15. Photovoltaic module (600; 700) according to any one of claims 1 to 14, wherein at least one group comprises several groups (601, 602; 701, 702, 703) electrically connected to each other.

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