Photoelectric conversion module dismantling method and dismantling tool

Abstract

To provide a dismantling method and a dismantling tool capable of dismantling a photoelectric conversion panel and a frame with less force.SOLUTION: A photovoltaic conversion module 10 includes a panel 100 and a frame structure 200 provided along a side of the panel. The frame structure has holding portions 221, 231 that are bonded to the panel and support the ends of the panel. A photoelectric conversion module dismantling method includes a step of removing the frame structure from the panel. This step includes removing the frame structure from the panel while applying an external force to the frame structure such that the holding portions 221, 231 receive a force in a direction away from the panel.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 15

Description

[Technical field]

[0001] The present invention relates to a method for dismantling a photoelectric conversion module and a dismantling tool for a photoelectric conversion module. [Background technology]

[0002] As measures to reduce carbon dioxide emissions are implemented, it is expected that photovoltaic conversion modules such as solar cell modules, which are a type of renewable energy, will become more widespread. Currently, solar cell modules are being considered for dismantling and recycling when they are discarded.

[0003] The following Patent Document 1 discloses a method for separating a frame from a solar cell module during dismantling. The solar cell module includes a flat solar cell panel and a frame provided on the outer peripheral edge of the solar cell panel. The frame has a panel end fitting portion into which the outer peripheral edge of the solar cell panel is fitted, and a support portion protruding from the panel end fitting portion toward the opposite side to the light receiving surface of the solar cell panel (see FIG. 6 in Patent Document 1). The panel end fitting portion and the support portion of the frame form a substantially "E" shape in a cross section perpendicular to the extending direction of the frame. A sealant (adhesive) is filled in the panel end fitting portion of the frame into which the outer peripheral edge of the solar cell panel is fitted, so that the solar cell panel is firmly attached to the frame.

[0004] The dismantling device described in Patent Document 1 has a clamp unit that fixes the solar cell panel, and a head unit. The clamp unit presses the solar cell panel from the back side against a workbench, thereby fixing the solar cell panel to the workbench. The head unit travels along the outer peripheral edge of the solar cell panel while pressing the support unit of the frame from the inside to the outside. This is said to cause the frame to be peeled off from the solar cell panel. [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0005] [Patent Document 1] JP 2014-116363 A Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0006] The inventors of the present application have found that the following problem occurs when separating a frame from a solar panel. The dismantling device needs to peel the frame from the solar panel with a force stronger than the adhesive force of the sealant in the panel end fitting portion of the frame. In the dismantling device described in Patent Document 1, the head portion of the dismantling device presses the support portion of the frame from the inside to the outside in a direction along the surface of the solar panel. In this case, the pressing force of the head portion generates a shear force between the sealant and the panel end fitting portion and / or the solar panel.

[0007] However, because the adhesive strength of the sealing material is strong against shearing force, it is necessary to apply a relatively large pressing force from the head to the frame in order to peel the frame off from the solar panel. As a result, it may take a long time to separate the frame from the solar panel, or the dismantling equipment may need to be designed to be large.

[0008] Therefore, there is a demand for a disassembly method and a disassembly tool that can separate the panel and the frame with less force. [Means for solving the problem]

[0009] A method according to one aspect relates to a method for dismantling a photovoltaic conversion module having a panel and a frame structure provided along a side of the panel, the frame structure having a holding portion bonded to the panel and supporting an end of the panel, the method including a step of removing the frame from the panel, the step including removing the frame structure from the panel while applying an external force to the frame structure such that the holding portion receives a force in a direction away from the panel.

[0010] A dismantling tool according to one embodiment relates to a photoelectric conversion module having a panel and a frame structure provided along a side of the panel, the frame structure having a holding portion bonded to the panel and supporting an end of the panel, and a leg portion extending from the holding portion in a direction away from the panel. The dismantling tool includes an engagement portion that can engage with at least a portion of the leg portion, and a force transmission portion that transmits an external force to the engagement portion that rotates the leg portion so that the holding portion is displaced in a direction away from the panel. Effect of the Invention

[0011] According to the above aspect, the photovoltaic conversion panel and the frame can be dismantled with less force. [Brief description of the drawings]

[0012] [Figure 1] FIG. 2 is a perspective view of a photoelectric conversion module. [Diagram 2] 2A is a cross-sectional view of the photovoltaic conversion module taken along line 2A-2A in FIG. [Diagram 3] 2 is a perspective view of a first frame included in the photoelectric conversion module. FIG. [Figure 4] 4A is a cross-sectional view of the photovoltaic conversion module taken along line 4A-4A in FIG. [Diagram 5] 11 is a perspective view of a second frame included in the photoelectric conversion module. FIG. [Figure 6] FIG. 2 is an enlarged view of region 6A of FIG. [Figure 7] FIG. 2 is a plan view of a dismantling tool for a first frame according to the first embodiment. [Figure 8] 8 is an enlarged side view of the first frame dismantling tool as viewed in the direction of arrow 8A in FIG. 7. [Figure 9] 8 is a top view of the first frame dismantling tool as seen in the direction of arrow 9A in FIG. 7. [Figure 10] 13 is an enlarged side view showing a state in which a dismantling tool for the first frame is engaged with a first leg portion of the first frame. FIG. [Figure 11]FIG. 4 is a plan view of a dismantling tool for a second frame according to the first embodiment. [Figure 12] 12A is an enlarged side view of the dismantling tool for the second frame as viewed in the direction of arrow 12A in FIG. 11. [Figure 13] 13A is a top view of the dismantling tool for the second frame as viewed in the direction of the arrow 13A in FIG. 12. [Figure 14] 13 is an enlarged side view showing a state in which a dismantling tool for the second frame is engaged with a second leg portion of the second frame. FIG. [Figure 15] 13A and 13B are diagrams for explaining a step of removing the frame structure from the panel. [Figure 16] FIG. 13 is a diagram for explaining the operation of the dismantling tool. [Figure 17] FIG. 11 is a plan view of a dismantling tool according to a second embodiment. [Figure 18] FIG. 11 is a cross-sectional view of a photoelectric conversion module according to a third embodiment. [Figure 19] 13 is an enlarged side view showing a state in which the dismantling tool according to the third embodiment is engaged with the frame of the photoelectric conversion module according to the third embodiment. FIG. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

[0013] Hereinafter, the embodiments will be described with reference to the drawings. In the following drawings, the same or similar parts are denoted by the same or similar reference numerals. However, it should be noted that the drawings are schematic and the ratios of dimensions may differ from the actual ones.

[0014] [Photoelectric conversion module] FIG. 1 is a perspective view of a photovoltaic conversion module. FIG. 2 is a cross-sectional view of the photovoltaic conversion module taken along line 2A-2A in FIG. 1. FIG. 3 is a perspective view of a first frame included in the photovoltaic conversion module. FIG. 4 is a cross-sectional view of the photovoltaic conversion module taken along line 4A-4A in FIG. 1. FIG. 5 is a perspective view of a second frame included in the photovoltaic conversion module. FIG. 6 is an enlarged view of region 6A in FIG. 1.

[0015] The photovoltaic conversion module 10 may be, for example, a solar cell module that converts light energy into electrical energy. Such a solar cell module may be installed outdoors, for example, on the roof or wall of a building.

[0016] The photovoltaic conversion module 10 includes a flat panel 100 and a frame structure 200. The panel 100 may include a photovoltaic conversion element that converts light energy into electrical energy and vice versa. In this embodiment, the panel 100 has a substantially rectangular shape when viewed from a direction perpendicular to the surface of the panel 100 (height direction). The height direction corresponds to the Z direction in the figure.

[0017] The frame structure 200 is attached to the periphery of the panel 100 and is provided along the side of the panel 100. The frame structure 200 may have at least a first frame 220 and a second frame 230 connected to each other. The first frame 220 and the second frame 230 are each provided along the edge of the panel 100. In this embodiment, the first frame 220 extends in a first direction (hereinafter, sometimes referred to as the "horizontal direction") along the first edge of the panel 100. The horizontal direction corresponds to the X direction in the figure.

[0018] The second frame 230 may extend in a second direction (hereinafter, also referred to as the "vertical direction") along a second edge adjacent to the first edge of the panel 100. Here, the first direction (horizontal direction) and the second direction (vertical direction) may be directions that intersect with each other, and are preferably directions that are perpendicular to each other. In this embodiment, the vertical direction corresponds to the Y direction in the figure.

[0019] 1, the panel 100 has a substantially rectangular shape, and a pair of first frames 220 are provided along a pair of long sides of the panel 100. Similarly, a pair of second frames 230 are provided along a pair of short sides of the panel 100.

[0020] The first frame 220 may have a first retaining portion 221, a first leg portion 222, a first sidewall portion 223, a first flange 224, and a first panel receiving portion 225 (see FIG. 3 in particular). The first sidewall portion 223 is located outside the edge of the panel 100 and extends in a plane stretched by a direction intersecting the surface of the panel 100 (Z direction) and a lateral direction (X direction). The first sidewall portion 223 connects the first retaining portion 221 and the first flange 224, and may be molded integrally therewith.

[0021] The first flange 224 protrudes from an upper portion of the first side wall portion 223 toward the inside of the panel 100 and covers the surface of the end of the panel 100. The first flange 224 may extend along an edge of the panel 100 extending along the lateral direction.

[0022] The first retaining portion 221 protrudes from the first side wall portion 223 toward the inside of the panel 100 and faces the first flange 224. The first retaining portion 221 is configured to support the end portion of the panel 100 from below. The first retaining portion 221 may extend along the lateral direction.

[0023] The first panel receiving portion 225 may be composed of a first holding portion 221, a first side wall portion 223, and a first flange 224. Specifically, the first panel receiving portion 225 has a substantially "C" shape in a cross section perpendicular to the extension direction (lateral direction) of the first frame 220 (see FIG. 2). As a result, the first panel receiving portion 225 is configured to be able to receive an end portion of the panel 100.

[0024] The inside of the first panel receiving portion 225 may be filled with a first adhesive 229. This allows the first panel receiving portion 225 to hold the panel 100 in a state in which the end portion of the panel 100 is received therein. In other words, the first holding portion 221 is adhered to the panel 100 and supports the end portion of the panel 100.

[0025] First adhesive 229 may be provided across the entire first panel receiving portion 225 in the lateral direction, or may be provided across only a partial area of ​​first panel receiving portion 225 in the lateral direction. The material of first adhesive 229 is not particularly limited, and may be, for example, a silicone-based adhesive.

[0026] The panel 100 does not have to be inserted all the way into the first panel receiving portion 225 in the vertical direction. Specifically, as shown in Fig. 2, a first adhesive 229 may be provided between the panel 100 and the first side wall portion 223 in the vertical direction (Y direction).

[0027] The first leg 222 may extend from the first retaining portion 221 in a direction away from the panel 100. In this embodiment, the first leg 222 may include a wall portion 222a extending in a direction perpendicular to the surface of the panel 100 and an end portion 222b bent toward the surface of the panel at the point farthest from the panel 100. In FIG. 2 and FIG. 3, the wall portion 222a of the first leg 222 is formed by a portion that extends continuously from the intersection of the first side wall portion 223 and the first retaining portion 221. In addition, the outer surface of the wall portion 222a of the first leg 222 is flush with the outer surface of the first side wall portion 223. Alternatively, the wall portion 222a of the first leg 222 may be connected to a portion of the first retaining portion 221 that is away from the first side wall portion 223.

[0028] The first holding portion 221, the first leg portion 222, the first side wall portion 223, and the first flange 224 may each extend in the extension direction of the first frame 220. The first holding portion 221, the first leg portion 222, the first side wall portion 223, and the first flange 224 may be formed integrally.

[0029] The wall 222a of the first leg 222 abuts against the second frame 230 at both ends of the first frame 220 in the lateral direction (see FIGS. 1 and 6). The wall 222a of the first leg 222 may have a first hole 226 near both ends in the lateral direction, through which a fastening member such as a bolt can be inserted. In this embodiment, two first holes 226 are arranged side by side in the height direction. Alternatively, only one first hole 226 may be provided in the height direction. The first hole 226 is provided to connect the second frame 230 to the first frame 220.

[0030] In the first embodiment, the first holding portion 221 and the end 222b of the first leg portion 222 do not reach the edge of the wall portion 222a of the first leg portion 222 in the horizontal direction (X direction) (see FIG. 3). In other words, the wall portion 222a of the first side wall portion 223 extends outward from the end 222b of the first holding portion 221 and the first leg portion 222 in the horizontal direction. This allows the first holding portion 221 and the end 222b of the first leg portion 222 of the first frame 220 to be configured not to interfere with the second holding portion 231 and the end 232b of the second leg portion 232 of the second frame 230 described later. The first hole portion 226 may be provided in a portion of the wall portion 222a of the first leg portion 222 that extends outward from the first holding portion 221.

[0031] Also, the first flange 224 may not reach the edge of the wall 222a of the first leg 222 in the horizontal direction (X direction) (see FIG. 3). Furthermore, the wall 222a of the first leg 222 may have a notch 228 at an end in the horizontal direction (X direction) and at an upper portion in the height direction. In the illustrated embodiment, the notch 228 has a shape in which a corner of the wall 222a of the first leg 222 is cut off in a triangular shape (see FIG. 3). Alternatively, the wall 222a of the first leg 222 may not have the notch 228 and may have a corner bent at an angle of 90° when viewed in the vertical direction.

[0032] The second frame 230 may have a second retaining portion 231, a second leg portion 232, a second side wall portion 233, a second flange 234, and a second panel receiving portion 235. The second side wall portion 233 extends on the outside of the panel 100 in a plane stretched by a direction intersecting the surface of the panel 100 (Z direction) and a lateral direction (Y direction). The second side wall portion 233 connects the second retaining portion 231 and the second flange 234, and may be molded integrally therewith.

[0033] The second flange 234 protrudes from an upper portion of the second side wall portion 233 toward the inside of the panel 100 and covers the surface of the end of the panel 100. The second flange 234 may extend along an edge of the panel 100 along the longitudinal direction.

[0034] The second retaining portion 231 protrudes from the second side wall portion 233 toward the inside of the panel 100, and faces the second flange 234. The second retaining portion 231 is configured to support the end portion of the panel 100 from below.

[0035] The second panel receiving portion 235 may be composed of a second holding portion 231, a second side wall portion 233, and a second flange 234. Specifically, the second panel receiving portion 235 has a substantially "C" shape in a cross section perpendicular to the extension direction (vertical direction) of the second frame 230 (see FIG. 4). As a result, the second panel receiving portion 235 is configured to be able to receive an end portion of the panel 100.

[0036] The inside of the second panel receiving portion 235 may be filled with a second adhesive 239 (see FIG. 4). This allows the second panel receiving portion 235 to hold the panel 100 in a state in which the end portion of the panel 100 is received therein. In other words, the second holding portion 231 is adhered to the panel 100 and supports the end portion of the panel 100.

[0037] The second adhesive 239 may be provided over the entire second panel receiving portion 235 in the vertical direction, or may be provided over only a partial area of ​​the second panel receiving portion 235 in the vertical direction. The material of the second adhesive 239 may be the same as or different from the material of the first adhesive 229.

[0038] The panel 100 does not have to be inserted all the way into the second panel receiving portion 235 in the lateral direction. Specifically, as shown in Fig. 4, a second adhesive 239 may be provided between the panel 100 and the second side wall portion 233 in the lateral direction (X direction).

[0039] The upper surface of the second holding portion 231 may have a plurality of grooves 231b. The plurality of grooves 231b may be arranged substantially parallel to one another. Each of the grooves 231b may extend along the extension direction of the second frame 230.

[0040] The second adhesive 239 may be provided in contact with the groove 231b. This increases the surface area of ​​the boundary between the second holding portion 231 and the second adhesive 239, thereby increasing the adhesive force of the second adhesive 239. Note that a similar groove may also be formed on the surface of the first holding portion 221 of the first frame 220.

[0041] The second leg 232 may extend from the second retaining portion 231 in a direction away from the panel 100. In this embodiment, the second leg 232 may include a wall portion 232a extending in a direction perpendicular to the surface of the panel 100 and an end portion 232b bent toward the surface of the panel at the point farthest from the panel 100. In Figs. 4 and 5, the wall portion 232a of the second leg 232 is formed by a portion that extends continuously from the intersection of the second side wall portion 233 and the second retaining portion 231. In addition, the outer surface of the wall portion 232a of the second leg 232 is flush with the outer surface of the second side wall portion 233. Alternatively, the wall portion 232a of the second leg 232 may be connected to a portion of the second retaining portion 231 that is away from the second side wall portion 233.

[0042] The second holding portion 231, the second leg portion 232, the second side wall portion 233, and the second flange 234 may each extend in the extension direction of the second frame 230. The second holding portion 231, the second leg portion 232, the second side wall portion 233, and the second flange 234 may be formed integrally.

[0043] The second holding portion 231, the second leg portion 232, and a C-shaped wall portion 237 described later may reach the edge of the second side wall portion 233 in the vertical direction (Y direction) (see FIG. 5). As a result, the second holding portion 231, the second leg portion 232, and a C-shaped wall portion 237 described later abut against the first leg portion 222 or the first side wall portion 223 of the first frame 220.

[0044] The second flange 234 may reach the edge of the second side wall portion 233 in the vertical direction (Y direction) (see FIGS. 5 and 6). In this embodiment, an end 234a of the second flange is inclined so that the end of the base of the second flange 234 on the first frame 220 side in the vertical direction (Y direction) is positioned outside in the vertical direction relative to the end of the tip of the second flange 234 on the first frame 220 side in the vertical direction. That is, in this embodiment, only the base of the second flange 234 reaches the end of the second flange 234.

[0045] The wall 232a of the second leg 232 may abut against the first frame 220 at both ends of the second frame 230 in the vertical direction (see Figs. 1 and 6). The second holding portion 231 and / or the second leg 232 may have a second hole 236 through which a fastening member such as a bolt can be inserted. The second hole 236 is surrounded by a wall 237 that is C-shaped in cross section. In this embodiment, the C-shaped wall 237 is provided at the lower part of the second holding portion 231 and at the upper part of the end 232b of the second leg 232. The C-shaped wall 237 extends along the extension direction of the second frame 230. Therefore, the C-shaped wall 237 has a substantially cylindrical shape.

[0046] The second hole 236 of the second frame 230 is aligned with the first hole 226 of the first frame 220. A fastening member such as a bolt passes through both the first hole 226 of the first frame 220 and the second hole 236 of the second frame 230. This fastens the first frame 220 and the second frame 230 to each other. Thus, the first frame 220 and the second frame 230 are fastened to each other by the fastening member extending from the first hole 226 toward the second hole 236.

[0047] 6, when the first frame 220 and the second frame 230 are fastened to each other, the first flange 224 and the second flange 234 do not abut against each other. As a result, a gap G1 is formed between the end 224a of the first flange 224 and the end 234a of the second flange 234. The gap G1 serves as a drainage channel that allows liquid poured onto the surface of the panel 100, such as rainwater, to escape to the outside of the panel 100.

[0048] In this embodiment, a gap G1 for discharging liquid is formed between the first flange 224 and the second flange 234. Alternatively, the gap G does not have to be formed between the first flange 224 and the second flange 234. In other words, the first flange 224 and the second flange 234 may be in close contact with each other.

[0049] [Configuration of dismantling tool for the first frame] Next, a dismantling tool for the first frame (hereinafter referred to as the "first dismantling tool") will be described with reference to Figs. 7 to 10. Fig. 7 is a plan view of the dismantling tool for the first frame according to the first embodiment. Fig. 8 is an enlarged side view of the dismantling tool for the first frame as viewed from the direction of arrow 8A in Fig. 7. Fig. 9 is a top view of the dismantling tool for the first frame as viewed from the direction of arrow 9A in Fig. 7. Fig. 10 is an enlarged side view showing a state in which the dismantling tool for the first frame is engaged with the legs of the first frame.

[0050] The first dismantling tool 400 may have an engagement portion 410 and a force transmission portion 420. The engagement portion 410 is configured to be able to engage with at least a portion of the first leg portion 222 of the first frame 220.

[0051] In this embodiment, the engagement portion 410 may have a base portion 412 extending along the extension direction of the first frame 220, and a groove portion 414 provided in the base portion 412. The shape of the base portion 412 is not particularly limited, but may be a substantially rectangular parallelepiped as shown in the figure. The base portion 412 may have a length substantially the same as the length of the first frame 220. Alternatively, the base portion 412 may be shorter than the length of the first frame 220.

[0052] Groove 414 may be provided on one surface of base 412 and extend along the extension direction of base 412. Groove 414 is configured to be able to receive at least a part of first leg 222 of first frame 220, specifically end 222b of first leg 222 (see FIG. 10). That is, groove 414 of first disassembly tool 400 is configured to be able to fit end 222b of first leg 222.

[0053] The force transmission part 420 may have a columnar shape extending in one direction from the base part 412. The force transmission part 420 extends in a direction intersecting the extension direction of the base part 412. As a result, as shown in Fig. 7, the first dismantling tool 400 has a substantially T-shape. When the force transmission part 420 is tilted, the base part 412 rotates around an axis along the extension direction of the base part 412.

[0054] The base 412 may have an upper portion 412a located closer to the force transmitting portion 420 than the groove 414, and a lower portion 412b on the opposite side of the force transmitting portion 420 with respect to the groove 414. The lower portion 412b of the base 412 is inserted into the gap between the end portion 222b of the first leg portion 222 of the first frame 220 and the first holding portion 221 (see FIG. 10).

[0055] The lower portion 412b of the base 412 may be longer than the upper portion 412a of the base 412 in the extension direction of the base 412. In the embodiment shown in the figure, the lower portion 412b of the base 412 protrudes outward at both ends more than the upper portion 412a. This allows the lower portion 412b of the base 412 to abut up to the vicinity of the end portion of the first frame 220. In this case, the external force from the first dismantling tool 400 can be applied up to the vicinity of the end portion of the first frame 220.

[0056] [Configuration of dismantling tool for second frame] Next, a dismantling tool for the second frame (hereinafter referred to as the "second dismantling tool") will be described with reference to Figs. 11 to 13. Fig. 11 is a plan view of the dismantling tool for the second frame according to the first embodiment. Fig. 12 is an enlarged side view of the dismantling tool for the second frame as viewed from the direction of arrow 12A in Fig. 11. Fig. 13 is a top view of the dismantling tool for the second frame as viewed from the direction of arrow 13A in Fig. 12. Fig. 14 is an enlarged side view showing a state in which the dismantling tool for the second frame is engaged with the second leg portion of the second frame.

[0057] The second dismantling tool 500 may have an engagement portion 510 and a force transmission portion 520. The engagement portion 510 is configured to be able to engage with at least a portion of the second leg portion 232 of the second frame 230.

[0058] In this embodiment, the engagement portion 510 may have a base portion 512 extending along the extension direction of the second frame 230, and a groove portion 514 provided in the base portion 512. The shape of the base portion 512 is not particularly limited, and may be a substantially rectangular parallelepiped as shown in the figure. The base portion 512 may have a length substantially the same as the length of the second frame 230. Alternatively, the base portion 512 may be shorter than the length of the second frame 230.

[0059] Groove portion 514 may be provided on one surface of base portion 512 and extend along the extension direction of base portion 512. Groove portion 514 is configured to be able to receive at least a part of second leg portion 232 of second frame 230, specifically end portion 232b of second leg portion 232. In other words, groove portion 514 of second dismantling tool 500 is configured to be able to fit end portion 232b of second leg portion 232.

[0060] The force transmission part 520 may have a columnar shape extending in one direction from the base part 512. The force transmission part 520 extends in a direction intersecting the extension direction of the base part 512. As a result, as shown in Fig. 11, the second dismantling tool 500 has a substantially T-shape. When the force transmission part 520 is tilted, the base part 512 rotates around an axis along the extension direction of the base part 512.

[0061] The base 512 may have an upper portion 512a located closer to the force transmitting portion 520 than the groove 514, and a lower portion 512b on the opposite side of the force transmitting portion 520 with respect to the groove 514. The lower portion 512b of the base 512 is inserted into the gap between the end portion 232b of the second leg portion 232 of the second frame 230 and the second holding portion 231.

[0062] The lower portion 512b of the base portion 512 may be longer than the upper portion 512a of the base portion 512 in the extension direction of the base portion 512. In the embodiment shown in the figure, the lower portion 512b of the base portion 512 protrudes outward at both ends more than the upper portion 512a. This allows the lower portion 512b of the base portion 512 to abut against the second frame 230 up to the vicinity of the end portion thereof.

[0063] In this embodiment, the lower portion 512b of the base portion 512 may preferably have substantially the same length as the second frame 230. Furthermore, the upper portion 512a of the base portion 512 may be shorter than the lower portion 512b of the base portion 512. More specifically, the upper portion 512a of the base portion 512 may be shorter than the distance L1 between the first legs 222 of a pair of first frames 220 provided at positions facing each other (see also FIG. 15). In this case, it is possible to prevent the upper portion 512a of the base portion 512 from interfering with the first legs 222 of the first frame 220.

[0064] In this embodiment, the width W2 of the opening side of the groove 514 provided in the base 512 of the second dismantling tool 500 is wider than the width W1 of the bottom (the side farther from the opening side) of the groove 514 (see FIG. 12). Specifically, the width W2 of the opening side of the groove 514 is large enough to receive the C-shaped wall portion 237 together with the end portion 232b of the second leg portion 232. On the other hand, the width W1 of the bottom of the groove 514 is large enough to receive only the end portion 232b of the second leg portion 232. As a result, the groove portion 514 of the second dismantling tool 500 has a shape corresponding to the shape of the second frame 230 (see FIG. 14).

[0065] [How to disassemble a photovoltaic conversion module] Next, a method for dismantling a photovoltaic conversion module will be described with reference to Fig. 15 and Fig. 16. Fig. 15 is a diagram for explaining the step of removing a frame structure from a panel. Fig. 16 is a diagram for explaining the operation of a dismantling tool. Fig. 15 is a perspective view of the photovoltaic conversion module as seen from the back side.

[0066] The method for dismantling a photovoltaic conversion module includes a step of removing the frame structure 200 from the panel 100. In order to remove the first frame 220 and the second frame 230, the first dismantling tool 400 and the second dismantling tool 500 described above, respectively, can be used.

[0067] 15 and 16 show the steps of removing first frame 220. First, engaging portion 410 of first dismantling tool 400 is engaged with leg portion 222 of first frame 220. Specifically, end portion 222b of leg portion 222 of first frame 220 is fitted into groove portion 414 of first dismantling tool 400. This brings first dismantling tool 400 into the state shown in FIG.

[0068] Next, the first frame 220 is removed from the panel 100 while applying an external force to the first frame 220 so that the first holding portion 221 receives a force in a direction away from the panel 100. In this embodiment, the force transmission portion 420 of the first dismantling tool 400 is tilted so as to rotate about the engagement portion 410 as an axis (see FIG. 16). As a result, the portion of the first leg portion 222 of the first frame 220 away from the first holding portion 221 receives an external force from the first dismantling tool 400 such that the portion rotates slightly in a direction away from the panel 100. In other words, as the first leg portion 222 is deformed by this external force, the first holding portion 221 receives a force in a direction away from the panel 100.

[0069] That is, the force transmission portion 420 of the first dismantling tool 400 transmits a force to the engagement portion 410 that rotates the first leg portion 222 so that the first holding portion 221 of the first frame 220 is displaced away from the panel 100, and the engagement portion 410 applies such external force to the leg.

[0070] According to the above-described method, first retaining portion 221 receives a force in a direction away from panel 100. In particular, the tip of first retaining portion 221 can be displaced farther away from panel 100 than the base of first retaining portion 221. Thus, a peeling force acts on the adhesive portion between panel 100 and first retaining portion 221. By operating force transmission portion 420 of first dismantling tool 400 to a greater extent, the adhesive between first retaining portion 221 and panel 100 is peeled off, and first frame 220 is removed from panel 100.

[0071] Here, as described in Patent Document 1, when the first holding portion 221 is moved in parallel in a direction along the surface of the panel 100, a shear force is generated in the adhesive portion between the first holding portion 221 and the panel 100. Since the shear adhesive strength of an adhesive is usually stronger than the peel adhesive strength, a large force is required to peel the frame from the panel. On the other hand, in this embodiment, the adhesive portion between the first holding portion 221 and the panel 100 is subjected to a peel force, so that the first holding portion 221 is easily peeled off from the panel 100. Therefore, it becomes possible to separate the panel 100 and the first frame 220 with a smaller force.

[0072] Furthermore, if the force acting on the first frame 220 is smaller, the possibility of the panel 100 being damaged during dismantling can be reduced.

[0073] As described above, it is preferable that the distance between the first holding part 221 and the base part 412 is as small as possible when the end part 222b of the first leg part 222 is fitted into the groove part 414 of the first dismantling tool 400. The first dismantling tool 400 applies a force to the first frame 220 while rotating from the contact point between the end of the base part 412 opposite to the force transmission part 420 and the leg part 222 of the first frame 220. The closer the starting point of this rotation is to the first holding part 221, the easier it is for the first holding part 221 to be displaced, so that the first holding part 221 is more easily peeled off from the panel 100 with a smaller force. In addition, even if the strength of the wall part 222a of the first frame 220 is relatively weak, the force from the first dismantling tool 400 is easily transmitted to the first holding part 221, so that it is possible to suppress the wall part 222a of the first frame 220 from being destroyed before the panel 100 is separated. From the above viewpoint, the distance between base 412 of first dismantling tool 400 and first holding portion 221 may be, for example, 20 mm or less, preferably 10 mm or less, and more preferably 5 mm or less.

[0074] The above has described in detail the removal of first frame 220. Removal of second frame 230 can also be performed in the same manner as removal of first frame 220. To remove second frame 230, second dismantling tool 500 can be used instead of first dismantling tool 400. Also, the distance between base 512 of second dismantling tool 500 and second holding portion 231 may be, for example, 20 mm or less, preferably 10 mm or less, and more preferably 5 mm or less, similar to first dismantling tool 400.

[0075] Here, the second frame 230 may be removed after the first frame 220, or the first frame 220 may be removed after the second frame 230. Which of the frames 220, 230 is to be removed first may be determined according to the shapes, structures, etc. of the first frame 220 and the second frame 230.

[0076] For example, if the fastening members fastening the first and second frames to each other extend along the extension direction of the second frame 230, the first frame 220 may be removed after removing the second frame 230. This is because, when removing the second frame 230, a force in a direction intersecting the insertion direction of the fastening members acts on the second frame 230, so that the second frame 230 can be removed with a relatively weak force. Conversely, if one tries to remove the first frame 220 first, it is necessary to apply a force to the first frame 220 along the insertion direction of the fastening members. Since the fastening members are very strong in the insertion direction, the force required to dismantle the first frame 220 may be very strong.

[0077] In addition, when removing the first frame 220 and the second frame 230 using the first dismantling tool 400 and / or the second dismantling tool 500 after removing the fastening members that fasten the first frame and the second frame together, either frame can be removed first.

[0078] In a state where the fastening members fastening the first frame and the second frame to each other are removed, the first frame 220 and the second frame 230 are adhered to the panel 100 by the first adhesive 229 and the second adhesive 239, respectively. In this case, the first frame 220 and the second frame 230 can be easily removed from the panel 100 by applying a local force to a portion where the adhesive strength is relatively weak. Here, the corners of the frame structure 200, i.e., the ends of the first frame 220 and the second frame 230, correspond to the ends of the first adhesive 229 and the second adhesive 239, and therefore correspond to a portion where the adhesive strength is relatively weak. Therefore, the first frame 220 and the second frame 230 may be removed while applying the above-mentioned external force locally to the vicinity of the ends of the first frame 220 and the second frame 230.

[0079] [Second embodiment] 17 shows a dismantling tool 600 for locally applying the above-mentioned external force near the ends of the first frame 220 and the second frame 230. The configuration of the dismantling tool 600 may be substantially the same as the configuration of the first dismantling tool 400 or the second dismantling tool 500 described above. In addition, the dismantling tool 600 may have a configuration similar to the structures of the engagement portions 410, 510, the grooves 414, 514, and the force transmission portions 420, 520, etc. of the first dismantling tool 400 or the second dismantling tool 500.

[0080] 17 is shorter than the bases 412, 512 of the first dismantling tool 400 or the second dismantling tool 500. This allows the dismantling tool 600 to locally apply the external force described above to a portion of the first frame 220 and the second frame 230, for example, near the ends.

[0081] 17 does not need to have a length corresponding to the lengths of the frames 220, 230. Therefore, the dismantling tool 600 can be applied to dismantling both the first frame 220 and the second frame 230.

[0082] [Third embodiment] Next, a photovoltaic conversion module according to a third embodiment, and its dismantling method and dismantling tool will be described. Fig. 18 is a cross-sectional view of the photovoltaic conversion module according to the third embodiment. Fig. 19 is an enlarged side view showing a state in which the dismantling tool according to the third embodiment is engaged with the frame of the photovoltaic conversion module according to the third embodiment. Note that the same reference numerals are used for configurations similar to those in the first embodiment. Please note that the description of the same configurations as those in the first embodiment may be omitted.

[0083] In the third embodiment, the first frame 220 may have a configuration similar to that of the first frame shown in Fig. 2. However, in the third embodiment, the first leg portion 222 of the first frame 220 has a different structure from that of the first frame shown in Fig. 2.

[0084] In the third embodiment, the first leg 222 extends from the first retaining portion 221 in a direction away from the panel 100. The first leg 222 has a wall 222a, an end 222b bent in a direction along the surface of the panel at the point farthest from the panel 100, and an inner wall 222c. The wall 222a of the first leg 222 is formed by a portion extending continuously from the intersection of the first side wall 223 and the first retaining portion 221. The inner wall 222c of the first leg 222 is formed by a portion extending continuously from the inner end of the first retaining portion 221, and may extend parallel to the wall 222a. The end 222b of the first leg 222 may form the lower end of the first leg 222 and connect the wall 222a and the inner wall 222c. Therefore, in the third embodiment, the first leg portion 222 may have a generally U-shaped configuration. The first leg portion 222 and the first retaining portion 221 form a hollow rectangular structure.

[0085] In the third embodiment, dismantling tool 700 may have substantially the same configuration as first dismantling tool 400 or second dismantling tool 500 described above. Dismantling tool 700 may have an engagement portion 710 and a force transmission portion 720. Engagement portion 710 is configured to be able to engage with at least a portion of first leg portion 222 of first frame 220. In this embodiment, engagement portion 710 may have a base portion 712 extending along the extension direction of first frame 220, and a groove portion 714 provided in base portion 712.

[0086] Groove 414 may be provided on one surface of base 412 and extend along the extension direction of base 412. Groove 414 is configured to be able to receive end 222b of first leg 222 of first frame 220, wall 222a, and part of inner wall 222c (see FIG. 18). Force transmission part 720 may have a columnar shape extending in one direction from base 712, similar to the configuration of first dismantling tool 400 or second dismantling tool 500 described above.

[0087] As with the first dismantling tool 400 or the second dismantling tool 500 described above, when the force transmission part 720 is tilted, the base part 712 rotates about an axis along the extension direction of the base part 712. As a result, a rotational force is applied from the dismantling tool 700 to the first leg part 222, and accordingly, the first holding part 221 receives a force in a direction away from the panel 100. Therefore, a peeling force acts on the adhesive part between the panel 100 and the first holding part 221.

[0088] As described above, the contents of the present invention have been disclosed through the embodiments, but the descriptions and drawings forming part of this disclosure should not be understood as limiting the present invention. From this disclosure, various alternative embodiments, examples and operating techniques will be apparent to those skilled in the art. Therefore, the technical scope of the present invention is defined only by the invention-specific matters related to the appropriate claims from the above description.

[0089] For example, in the above embodiment, the removal of the frame structure 200 having a specific structure has been described, but the structure of the frame structure 200 can be changed arbitrarily without departing from the spirit of the invention.

[0090] The dismantling tools 400, 500, 600, and 700 described above have a structure intended to be directly operated by human hands. Alternatively, the dismantling tools 400, 500, 600, and 700 may be configured to be semi-automatically or fully-automatically operable. In this case, the dismantling tools may be configured such that the force transmission units 420 and 520 are automatically operated by electrical means. [Explanation of symbols]

[0091] 10 Photoelectric conversion module 100 Panels 200 Frame Structure 220 1st Frame 221 1st holding part 222 1st leg 229 1st adhesive material 230 2nd Frame 231 Second holding part 232 Second leg 239 Second adhesive material 400 First Dismantling Tool 410 Engagement part 414 Groove 420 Force transmission section 500 Second Dismantling Tool 510 Engagement part 514 Groove 520 Force transmission section

Claims

1. A method for dismantling a photoelectric conversion module having a panel and a frame structure provided along a side portion of the panel, the frame structure having a holding portion bonded to the panel and supporting an end portion of the panel, comprising: removing the frame structure from the panel; The method for dismantling a photovoltaic conversion module includes removing the frame structure from the panel while applying an external force to the frame structure so that the retaining portion receives a force in a direction away from the panel.

2. The frame structure has legs extending from the retaining portion away from the panel, The method for dismantling a photovoltaic conversion module according to claim 1 , wherein the step includes applying the external force to the leg to rotate the leg so that the holding portion is displaced away from the panel.

3. The frame structure includes a first frame and a second frame fastened to each other by a fastening member, The fastening member extends along an extension direction of the second frame, The method for disassembling a photovoltaic conversion module according to claim 1 , wherein the step includes removing the first frame after removing the second frame.

4. The frame structure includes a first frame and a second frame connected to each other, The strength of the first frame is greater than the strength of the second frame, The method for disassembling a photovoltaic conversion module according to claim 1 , wherein the step includes removing the second frame after removing the first frame.

5. The method for disassembling photovoltaic conversion modules according to claim 1 , wherein the step includes locally applying the external force to a corner of the frame structure.

6. A dismantling tool for dismantling a photoelectric conversion module, the dismantling tool comprising: a panel; and a frame structure provided along a side of the panel, the frame structure having a holding portion bonded to the panel and supporting an end of the panel; and a leg portion extending from the holding portion in a direction away from the panel, an engagement portion engageable with at least a portion of the leg; a force transmission portion that transmits an external force to the engagement portion that rotates the leg portion so that the holding portion is displaced away from the panel.

7. The dismantling tool according to claim 6 , wherein the engaging portion includes a base having a groove capable of being fitted onto an end of the leg.

Images