Mechanically stacked transparent solar cell or module

Abstract

To provide a device that includes a mechanically stacked transparent solar cell or module for generating solar power.SOLUTION: A device includes mechanically laminated layers. The mechanically laminated layers include a bottom layer and upper layers. Each of the upper layers includes a transparent solar cell that converts light energy into electricity. Each of the upper layers transmits an unconverted portion of the light energy toward the bottom layer. The bottom layer includes a solar cell that converts the unconverted portion of the light energy into electricity.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 2

Description

Technical Field

[0001] Cross - Reference to Related Applications This application claims priority from U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 63 / 211,263, entitled "Modular Solar System", filed on June 16, 2021, which is hereby incorporated by reference herein in its entirety for all purposes.

[0002] This disclosure relates to photovoltaic power generation by a modular solar system. More specifically, the disclosure herein includes mechanically stacked transmissive solar cells or modules for photovoltaic power generation.

Background Art

[0003] Currently, there is no economically viable technology to achieve a power conversion efficiency exceeding 25% with conventional photovoltaic cells. As a result, at least 75% of the solar energy hitting the earth's surface is not utilized.

Summary of the Invention

[0004] According to one or more embodiments, a device is provided. The device includes at least two mechanically stacked layers including a bottom layer and one or more upper layers. Each of the one or more upper layers includes at least one transmissive solar cell configured to convert light energy into electricity and pass an unconverted portion of the light energy toward the bottom layer. The bottom layer includes at least one solar cell configured to convert at least a portion of the unconverted portion of the light energy into electricity.

[0005] According to one or more embodiments, a modular device is provided. The modular device includes at least two mechanically stacked modules including a module layer and one or more upper modules. Each of the one or more upper modules includes a plurality of transmissive solar cells configured to convert light energy received on a first side into electricity and pass an unconverted portion of the light energy to a next module of the at least two mechanically stacked modules on a second side. The bottom module includes a plurality of solar cells configured to convert at least a portion of the unconverted portion of the light energy into electricity.

[0006] According to one or more embodiments, a system is provided. The system includes a plurality of modular devices. Each modular device includes at least two mechanically stacked modules. The at least two mechanically stacked modules include a bottom module and one or more upper modules. Each of the one or more upper modules includes a plurality of transmissive solar cells configured to convert light energy into electricity and pass an unconverted portion of the light energy toward the bottom module. The bottom module includes a plurality of solar cells configured to convert at least a portion of the unconverted portion of the light energy into electricity. The system includes at least two strings. Each string corresponds to and is electrically connected to receive electricity from one of the at least two mechanically stacked modules. Each string is electrically distinct from other strings. The system includes a support structure for fixing the mechanical stacking of the at least two mechanically stacked modules, and aligns the plurality of solar cells of the bottom module perpendicularly to each of the plurality of transmissive solar cells of each of the one or more upper modules.

[0007] Additional features and advantages are realized by the techniques of the present disclosure. Other embodiments and aspects of the present disclosure are specifically described herein. Refer to the description and drawings to better understand the disclosure having the advantages and features.

Brief Description of the Drawings

[0008] A more detailed understanding can be obtained from the following description, which is shown by way of example in conjunction with the accompanying drawings, in which like reference numerals in the figures indicate like elements.

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DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0009] Disclosed herein is a modular solar system. More specifically, the modular solar system relates to stacking a plurality of solar modules within a framework / device. The plurality of solar modules includes transmission characteristics. Due to the transmissivity, light energy (i.e., irradiance) can pass through something. Next, each of the plurality of solar modules can absorb different light energy and allow other (unabsorbed) light energy to pass through. More specifically, for each solar module within the modular solar system, the amount of irradiance (from all directions and angles) is converted into electricity while the unused irradiance passes through. By stacking the plurality of solar modules, as an assembly, the total radiance is converted into electricity in a manner that provides a higher conversion rate than conventional solar cells. That is, in accordance with one or more technical effects, advantages, and benefits, the modular solar system achieves a greater overall light energy power conversion efficiency than conventional solar cells.

[0010] FIG. 1 shows a device 100 according to one or more embodiments. The device 100 is an example of a modular solar system. More specifically, the device 100 is an example of a mechanically stacked transmissive solar cell. The device 100 of FIG. 1 is oriented according to the X1-X2 axis (e.g., generally horizontal as oriented in the figure and the axis is left-right direction as in FIG. 1) and the Y1-Y2 axis (e.g., generally vertical as oriented in the figure and the axis is up-down direction as in FIG. 1). The X1 direction is opposite to the X2 direction, and the Y1 direction is opposite to the Y2 direction. Other directions can be created according to the X1-X2 axis and the Y1-Y2 axis and may be inclined or angled. References to the left side or the left-facing surface of the described component can be referred to as the X1 side or the X1 surface of the component, and references to the right side or the right-facing surface of the described component can be referred to as the X2 side or the X2 surface of the component. Similarly, the lower side or the bottom side or the downward-facing surface of the described component can be referred to as the Y1 side or the Y1 surface, and the upper side or the upward-facing surface of the described component can be referred to as the Y2 side or the Y2 surface.

[0011] Device 100 receives at least light energy or light 102 from the sun 101 (from the Y2 direction). The light 102 can be considered incident light or natural light (although other light sources are also considered). Device 100 converts one or more portions of the light 102 into electricity or electric power, such as by aggregating different types of cells. The light 102 can cover a range of the light spectrum including, but not limited to, ultraviolet (UV) light, visible light, and infrared light.

[0012] As shown, device 100 includes an upper layer 110 including a transparent section 112 and a transmissive solar cell 114, an intermediate section 120, and a bottom layer 130+ including a transparent section 132, a solar cell 134, and a rear section 136. In this way, device 100 can include at least two mechanically stacked layers (e.g., at least one of the upper layer 110 and the bottom layer 130), where each upper layer 110 can include at least one transmissive solar cell 114 (e.g., multiple in some cases), and the bottom layer 130 can include at least one solar cell 134 (e.g., multiple in some cases). According to one or more embodiments, device 100 can include two upper layers 110 as at least two mechanically stacked layers.

[0013] The transmissive solar cell 114 of the upper layer 110 converts part of the light 102 into electricity and passes the unconverted part of the light 102 toward the bottom layer 130 (in the Y1 direction). The solar cell 134 of the bottom layer 130 converts at least part of the unconverted part of the light 102 into electricity. According to one or more embodiments, each of the at least two mechanically stacked layers is electrically distinct from the other layers of the at least two mechanically stacked layers. In this regard, the transmissive solar cell 114 and the upper layer 110 are electrically distinct from the solar cell 134 and the bottom layer 130 (e.g., providing a design alternative to a tandem cell by a mechanically stacked configuration that is not coupled to components that are electrically dependent on each other). That is, the device 100 solves the problems of conventional tandem solar cells because a conventional tandem solar cell does not function alone when separated (i.e., a conventional tandem solar cell is not effectively separable).

[0014] The transmissive solar cell 114 can include, but is not limited to, cadmium telluride (CdTe), amorphous silicon (a-Si), perovskite, organic, and copper indium gallium selenide (CIGS). The transmissive solar cell 114 can include, but is not limited to, other additives such as zinc, selenium, tin, oxygen, copper, aluminum, carbon, or sulfur. By way of example, CdTe, a-Si, and CIGS include a higher bandgap than c-Si. In this way, the upper layer 110 includes a material having a higher bandgap than crystalline silicon (c-Si) of a conventional solar cell, increasing the overall efficiency and power output of the device 100. For example, based on the bandgap of c-Si (e.g., 1.11 electron volts (eV)), wavelengths in the orange and red visible regions, as well as the near-infrared region, should pass from the upper layer 110 to the bottom layer 130 (in the Y1 direction) such that the c-Si of the solar cell 134 receives the light energy and converts it into electricity. According to one or more embodiments, the solar cell 134 can be a transmissive solar cell. In this regard, the rear section 136 can be reflective such that the unabsorbed portion of the light exiting the solar cell 134 in the X1 direction can be reflected in the X2 direction by the device 136.

[0015] According to one or more embodiments, the intermediate section 120 is the region of the device 100 where the transparent solar cell 114 of the upper layer 110 and the transparent section 132 of the bottom layer 130 are adjacent. Adjacent in this context means that two components are adjacent and in contact, or adjacent without being coupled to each other (e.g., effectively touching), and in some cases directly stacked on top of each other. The intermediate section 120 can be maintained around the upper layer 110 and the bottom layer 130 by means such as a seal. The seal can include, but is not limited to, one or more of an adhesive or other adhesive, a gasket, a plastic member, and a gap filler. According to one or more embodiments, the seal is a combination of a gap filler and an adhesive or other adhesive. According to one or more embodiments, the intermediate section 120 supports the mechanical lamination of the upper layer 110 and the bottom layer 130 and is sealed around to prevent foreign objects (e.g., dust, insects, rodents, etc.) from penetrating between the upper layer 110 and the bottom layer 130.

[0016] According to one or more embodiments, the intermediate section 120 is the region of the device 100 where the transparent solar cell 114 of the upper layer 110 and the transparent section 132 of the bottom layer 130 are close to each other, forming a space therebetween. Proximity in this context includes that two components are not joined to each other, but are close, in a close position, or at a predefined distance. Examples of proximity include, but are not limited to, 1 millimeter, 5 millimeters, 1 centimeter, 5 centimeters, 1 decimeter, 5 decimeters, etc. The space (i.e., the intermediate section 120) can be maintained by the seals and / or support structures described herein. According to one or more embodiments, the support structure supports and fixes the mechanical lamination of the upper layer 110 and the bottom layer 130, and provides a seal to one or more surfaces of the upper layer 110 and the bottom layer 130. Examples of seals of the support structure include, but are not limited to, a screen, a watertight membrane, or an air filter. Examples of mechanical lamination include, but are not limited to, horizontal lamination, parallel lamination with a horizontal plane (i.e., flat with respect to the earth), and parallel lamination with an array plane (i.e., a determined design).

[0017] According to one or more embodiments, the upper layer 110 can include, together with the transparent solar cell 114, a transparent section 112 on the Y2 side (e.g., the solar side) of the transparent solar cell 114. The bottom layer 130 can include, together with the solar cell 134, a transparent section 132 on the Y2 side (e.g., the solar side) of the solar cell 134 and / or a rear section 136 on the Y1 side (e.g., the side opposite to the solar side) of the solar cell 134. As described herein, the rear section 136 can include a metal, a plastic, or other opaque material to prevent light 102 or a part thereof from exiting the device 100 in the Y1 direction, or to reflect light 102 or a part thereof in the Y2 direction.

[0018] The transparent sections 112 and 132, and in some embodiments the rear section 136, can include glass, plastic, or other transparent materials that allow light 102 or a portion thereof to pass through without being absorbed. The rear section 136 can include metal, plastic, or other opaque materials to prevent light 102 or a portion thereof from exiting the device 100 in the Y1 direction.

[0019] Figure 2 shows a device 200 according to one or more embodiments. The device 200 is an example of a modular solar system. More specifically, the device 200 is an example of a mechanically stacked transmissive solar cell.

[0020] Note that elements of the example of the modular solar system of Figure 2 similar to other figures are reused for brevity of description (e.g., the same reference numerals in the figures indicate the same elements) and are not necessarily redefined. Thus, as shown, the device 200 further includes a first upper layer 210, a second upper layer 211 including an upper transparent section 212, a transmissive solar cell 214, and a bottom transparent section 216, and a bottom layer 230 including a reflective section 250. The second upper layer 211 and the bottom layer 230 can be separated by a distance 260. The amount of space in the intermediate section 120 and / or the distance 260 can be determined based on the thermal coefficient of the device 200, and the spacing can be indicated by an optimal distance value that balances the compactness of the device 200 and the thermal management of the layers 210, 211, and 230. In this way, the device 200 can include at least two mechanically stacked layers (e.g., at least the first upper layer 210 or the second upper layer 211), each of which can include at least one transmissive solar cell 114 and 214 (e.g., in some cases a plurality thereof). According to one or more embodiments, the intermediate section 120 and / or the distance 260 may indicate that surrounding components are adjacent (e.g., can be stacked directly on top of each other).

[0021] According to one or more embodiments, the bottom transparent section 216 of the second upper layer 211 can be on the Y1 side (e.g., the side opposite to the sun side) of the transmissive solar cell 214. The first upper layer 210 can be referred to as the upper layer among the two layers 210 and 211, and the second upper layer 211 can be referred to as the bottom layer among the two layers 210 and 211. The bottom layer 230 can be a reflective layer under the second upper layer 211. For example, the bottom layer 230 can include a reflective section 250 that reflects at least the unabsorbed portion of the light 102 emitted from the bottom transparent section 216 in the Y1 direction along the Y2 direction to the second upper layer 211. The reflective section 250 can include a metal, plastic, or other opaque material having a reflective Y2 surface. According to one or more embodiments, the transmissive solar cell 114 of the first upper layer 210 and the upper transparent section 212 of the second upper layer 211 can be adjacent or close as described herein. Any part of the device 200 can be sealed or supported as described herein. The intermediate section 120 can also represent the bottom transparent section of the first upper layer 210.

[0022] FIG. 3 shows a system 300 according to one or more embodiments. The system 300 receives light 102 (although other light sources are also contemplated) from at least the sun 101. The system 300 includes an optional module 310 having any concentrator, micro-concentrator, or transmissive module; a transmissive module 330 having a transmissive solar cell 331; an optional module 340 having a solar cell 341 that can optionally be transmissive (e.g., the module 340 can be a transmissive module); an optional reflective module 350; one or more boxes 370; and a bus 380. The selectivity of any component or any feature is indicated by a dotted frame line. The optional module 310 can be a concentrator, a micro-concentrator, or a transmissive module. Each module is connected to one or more boxes 370, which can be an electrical combiner box (e.g., corresponding to a string of a support structure as described herein) that supplies the electricity generated by one or more of the modules 310, 330, and 340 to the bus 380 (e.g., a PV bus connector and a PV connector box).

[0023] One or more boxes 370 can be hardwired electrical connections that provide outlets, connections, etc. for receiving one or more modules 310, 330, and 340. Note that the hardwired electrical connections can include sensors and that the hardwired electrical connections can couple wiring from separate modules. For example, each wiring harness of the modules can protrude from the back of each outlet to facilitate installation, repair, and maintenance (e.g., in a plug & play fashion). These hardwired electrical connections and outlets can be weather-resistant quick-connect hardware (e.g., used to simplify installation by connecting wiring to a combiner box and reduce on-site quality errors). Fuses with indicator lights during use can be included in each hardwired electrical connection to ensure that the power to the modules is turned off during installation and maintenance. Further, the operation of the system 300 can be monitored by one or more sensors as described herein.

[0024] System 300 is an example of a modular solar system. More specifically, System 300 is an example of a mechanically stacked solar cell or modular device. According to one or more embodiments, System 300 includes at least two mechanically stacked modules such as optional module 310, transmissive module 330, and module 340. According to one or more embodiments, optional module 310, transmissive module 330, and module 340 can be double-sided (e.g., absorb light energy from both sides) and can include clear wiring to allow light energy to pass through multiple times. Optional module 310 and transmissive module 330 can represent one or more upper modules. Module 340 can represent a module layer, which may be the same as or different from one or more upper modules. Optional module 310 and transmissive module 330 include a plurality of transmissive solar cells (e.g., optional transmissive solar cell 311 and transmissive solar cell 331), which convert the light energy received on the Y2 side (or the solar side or the first side) into electricity and pass the unconverted portion of the light energy to the next module. For example, optional module 310 passes the unconverted portion of the light energy in the Y1 direction to transmissive module 330 on the Y2 side (or the solar side or the second side) of optional module 310. Further, transmissive module 330 passes the unconverted portion of the light energy in the Y1 direction to module 340 on the Y2 side (or the solar side or the second side) of transmissive module 330.

[0025] Module 340 includes a plurality of solar cells (e.g., solar cell 341 may optionally be transmissive), which are noted to convert at least a portion of the unconverted portion of the light energy into electricity. System 300 mechanically stacks at least two mechanically stacked modules to vertically align the plurality of solar cells of module 340 with each of the plurality of transmissive solar cells of any module 310 and transmissive module 330. According to one or more embodiments, the mechanical stacking by system 300 can be further sealed on one or more sides by, for example, a screen, a waterproof membrane, or an air filter as described herein. Examples of mechanical stacking include, but are not limited to, horizontal stacking, parallel stacking with a horizontal plane (i.e., flat with respect to the earth), and parallel stacking with an array plane (i.e., a defined design). By mechanically and electrically separating and maintaining the cells / modules, one or more of modules 310, 330, and 340 can be designed to operate together for electrical aggregation (e.g., this further enables a wider range of electrical components to achieve power aggregation).

[0026] During operation, sunlight 102 passes through one or more of modules 310, 330, and 340. Module 310 can absorb light 102 at a first wavelength in a first spectral response. Light 391 (i.e., its irradiance), which is outside the first wavelength and is the residual excess of the first spectral response outside the first wavelength, is further passed in the Y1 direction to transmissive module 330.

[0027] Transmissive module 330 can absorb light 391 at a second wavelength in a second spectral response. According to one or more embodiments, the first and second wavelengths can be the same. According to one or more embodiments, the first spectral response and the second spectral response can also be the same. Light 393 (i.e., its irradiance), which is outside the second wavelength and is the residual excess of the second spectral response outside the second wavelength, is further passed in the Y1 direction to module 340.

[0028] Next, in FIG. 4, graph 400 is shown in accordance with one or more embodiments. Graph 400 is an example of a spectral response graph of CdTe (e.g., transmissive solar cell 331 and transmissive module 330) and c-Si (e.g., solar cell 341 and module 340). FIG. 4 also includes a key 401 for identifying the lines within graph 400. Graph 400 includes an x-axis showing the nanometer scale of wavelength, and a left y-axis showing spectral intensity and a right y-axis showing spectral response and transmittance. Note that the approximate absorption range of CdTe is 400 to 800 nanometers (e.g., the second wavelength). For example, in system 300, transmissive module 330 absorbs the irradiance of light 391 in the wavelength range of 400 to 800 nanometers and passes the unabsorbed light energy in the wavelength range beyond 800 nanometers.

[0029] Module 340 can absorb light 393 at a third wavelength in a third spectral response. According to one or more embodiments, the third wavelength can include the second wavelength and / or can be broader than the second wavelength. Returning to FIG. 4, note that the approximate absorption range of c-Si is 400 to 1200 nanometers (e.g., the second wavelength). Module 340 can absorb the irradiance of light 393 in the wavelength range of at least 800 to 1200 nanometers and can pass the light energy in the wavelength range beyond 1200 nanometers. Module 340 can also absorb the irradiance of light 393 in the wavelength range of 400 to 1200 nanometers, where the wavelength range of 400 to 800 nanometers includes light 393 (i.e., its irradiance) that is the residual excess of the second spectral response in the range of the second wavelength. Further, light 395 (i.e., its irradiance) that is outside the third wavelength and is the residual excess of the third spectral response in the range of the third wavelength is further passed in the Y1 direction to reflective module 350.

[0030] The reflection module 350 reflects the light 395 in the Y2 direction towards the module 340. The remaining irradiance of the light 395 is further either absorbed by the module 340 or passed through the transmission module 330 as the light 397 (for example, the light 397 continues to travel in the Y2 direction). Next, the remaining irradiance of the light 397 is further either absorbed by the transmission module 330 or passed through to the module 310 as the light 399 (for example, the light 399 continues to travel in the Y2 direction). Note that the fading of the arrows indicating the lights 102, 391, 393, 395, 397, and 399 indicates the absorption of irradiance and the reduction of energy because the light 102 is converted into electricity sent to the box 370. Also note that each specific irradiance or a part thereof may not be absorbed in the first pass but may be absorbed in the second pass (i.e., in the Y2 direction).

[0031] Figure 5 shows modules 501 and 502 according to one or more embodiments. The modules 501 and 502 can be examples of the configurations of any of the modules 330 and 340 (or layers) described herein. The module 501 includes one or more cells 510 arranged in an x - y grid, where both x and y are integers greater than 0. The module 502 includes one or more cells 520 arranged in an x - y grid, where x is 1 and y is an integer greater than 0. The widths, wirings, and configurations of the cells 510 and 520 can be managed and operated to control power generation on a cell - by - cell basis.

[0032] Figure 6 shows a frame 600 according to one or more embodiments. The frame 600 is shown in a perspective view and a side view through its side walls. The frame 600 includes a shell 605, a lattice or opening 610 for vents, holes 615 (for example, holes for receiving fasteners to attach the frame 600 to a frame), and one or more shelves 632, 624, 636, and 638.

[0033] One or more shelves 632, 634, 636, and 638 can be spacer shelves for modules 330 and 340 and box 380, holding these components in a vertical stack, and the space 640 therebetween allows for ventilation, cooling, etc. One or more shelves 632, 634, 636, and 638 can be brackets, L-shaped flanges, etc. that provide multiple levels such as upper level 632, upper middle level 634, lower middle level 636, and lower level 638 within frame 600. Note that shelves 632, 634, 636, and 638 allow for space 640 between modules 330 and 340. Further note that each of modules 330 and 340 includes a connector 642 that electrically couples modules 330 and 340 to corresponding box 380.

[0034] According to one or more embodiments, frame 600 secures the mechanical stacking of modules 330 and 340 (e.g., thereby providing a design alternative to tandem cells with a mechanically stacked configuration that is not coupled). According to one or more embodiments, frame 600 is a frame and rail system in which one or more shelves 632, 634, 636, and 638 function as horizontal slider tracks on which modules 330 and 340 are disposed. Note that frame 600 can include an open top (e.g., allowing light 102 to strike any of modules 330 and 340 therein), an open bottom, and a ventilation grille or opening 610 or open wall to allow for direct air flow. Note that frame 600 or any portion thereof can be made of metal, wood, plastic, fiberglass, carbon fiber, or other structural materials as described herein.

[0035] FIG. 7 shows a support structure 700 according to one or more embodiments. The support structure 700 is shown in a perspective view and a front view through its side walls. The support structure 700 includes a frame 705 that includes one or more arms 706 and one or more holders 707. The support structure 700 includes a cap 710, a beam arrangement 720, and a post 730. The support structure 700 includes one or more fasteners 740 (e.g., cotter pins and / or screws), a conduit 750, and one or more straps 760.

[0036] The one or more holders 707 fix the one or more arms 706 in place. The one or more holders 707 can be fixed to the arm 705 and the beam arrangement 720 by fasteners 740. The beam arrangement 720 can be one or more beams. The one or more beams of the beam arrangement 720 can be angle beams, round beams, I-beams, or other structural members having variable angles. The beam arrangement 720 supports one or more frames 705 that further support one or more modules 310, 330, 340, and 350 as described herein. In this regard, the one or more modules 310, 330, 340, and 350 (e.g., the modules 501 and / or 501 of FIG. 5) can be mounted within the arms 706 of the support structure 700 of FIG. 7, such that the one or more modules 310, 330, 340, and 350 are mechanically stacked in an adjacent and / or proximate configuration. The support structure 700 can include wedges 770, such as metal, plastic, or rubber wedges, to hold the one or more modules 310, 330, 340, and 350 in place within the arms 706.

[0037] The strap 760 is adjustable to maintain the beam arrangement 720 in a predetermined position on the cap 710. The cap 710 can be a post cap for the post 730 and includes a U-bracket set at an angle to the post 730 as shown in FIG. 7. The post 730 can be an angle beam, round pipe, channel member, or I-beam fixed to, attached to, and / or partially embedded in the ground or other surface. The conduit 750 can accommodate electrical wiring such as the strings described herein. When channels are used for one or more components or parts of the support structure 700, the electrical wiring can be placed directly within the channels.

[0038] According to one or more embodiments, the support structure 700 secures the mechanical stack of modules 310, 330, 340, and 350 (e.g., thereby providing a design alternative to tandem cells by a mechanically stacked configuration that is not coupled). According to one or more embodiments, one or more frames 705 can be a snap button and slot system or a peripheral molding system in which the arms 706 and holders 707 fix or clamp the modules 310, 330, 340, and 350 in place. The holder 707 can be a spacer clamp for the arm 706 that holds the modules 310, 330, 340, and 350 in a vertical stack with a space 640 provided as described herein. The wedge 770 can be a transparent and / or rubber component that supports the insertion of the modules 310, 330, 340, and 350. According to one or more embodiments, the peripheral molding system can include a peripheral molding along the outer edge of each of the modules 310, 330, 340, and 350, where each peripheral molding is configured to laminate with an adjacent peripheral molding. The support structure 700 can also include a wedge such as a rubber wedge for holding the beam 720 in a predetermined position within the cap 710. Note that any elements of the support structure 700 as well as the modules 310, 330, 340, and 350 are shipped separately and assembled on-site.

[0039] Next, referring to FIG. 8, an environment 800 is shown in accordance with one or more embodiments. The environment 800 can include one or more modular solar systems, as described herein. More specifically, the environment 800 can include one or more mechanically stacked transmissive solar modules within one or more devices for receiving light (e.g., from at least the sun 101, although other light sources are also contemplated). In this way, embodiments of the environment 800 can include devices, systems, methods, and / or computer program products at any possible technical detail level of integration.

[0040] According to one or more embodiments, the environment 800 can represent a modular solar system located within a field 801 and including one or more support structures 810.n (where n is an integer). The field 801 can be any terrain or expanse of open or cleared ground for supporting one or more support structures 810.n, as well as rooftops and / or other site areas.

[0041] Each support structure 810 can include at least an inverter 815, a switch 817, a string 820, and one or more modular devices 830 (where m is an integer). Each modular device 830 (e.g., devices 100 and 200 of FIGS. 1 and 2) can include one or more modules 832 (e.g., layers 110, 130, 230, and 250 of FIGS. 1 and 2).

[0042] The inverter 815 can be any power electronics device or circuit where the current changes, such as from direct current (DC) to alternating current (AC). The switch 817 can be a power cut-off switch that grounds each support structure 810. According to one or more embodiments, the switch 817 provides an electrical latch and prevents discharge when the support structure 810 is energized. The string 820 can be any electrical configuration that connects one or more electrical components (e.g., one or more modules 832), whether in series or parallel with a particular electrical component (e.g., the inverter 815, etc.).

[0043] Each module 832 is connected to a corresponding string 820 (e.g., via a pin connection, a pigtail connection, etc.), separated from at least another module 832 by a space 640 (e.g., the middle section 120 of FIG. 1 or the distance 250 of FIG. 2), and has at least one sensor 836 and a cord 838. Further, additional sensors 836 can be arranged via the support structure 810 and the environment 800. The environment 800 and the elements therein (e.g., any of the sensors 836) can be managed by the device 860. Further, the environment 800 can be connected to a grid 870 and can be managed by a maintenance robot, a drone, a technician, etc.

[0044] According to one or more embodiments, the support structure 810 and the modular device 830 can be assembled at the factory, including pre-wiring to reduce on-site assembly costs in the field 801 while improving quality. When the modular device 830 is shipped to the field 801, the modular devices 830 are connected together and then installed like a puzzle with respect to the frame 810. One or more modular devices 830 can house modules 832 (e.g., 1 x 2 meters in length and width) and have dimensions that provide an interval for accommodating cooling and bandgap dispersion. According to one or more embodiments, modules with a height of 1 inch at 1-inch intervals can provide modules with a height of 8 inches (e.g., may appear like a stack of pancakes). Next, the support structure 810 can provide left-right lateral stability, while the module 830 provides front-back stability. According to one or more embodiments, the modules 832 can be adjacent (e.g., can be stacked directly without spacing from each other).

[0045] According to one or more embodiments, environment 800 is a system of at least two mechanical modules 832 within a field 801 that includes a support structure 810, modular devices 830, and sensors 836. At a macro level, environment 800 shows how elements and things are connected within a larger network for alerts and how power is supplied to grid 870 or other loads (e.g., one or more batteries). The at least two mechanical modules 832 include a bottom module and one or more upper modules, as described herein. Each string 820 corresponds to and is electrically connected to one of the at least two mechanically stacked modules 832 to receive electricity therefrom. Each string 820 is electrically distinct from other strings 820. The support structure 810 secures the mechanical stacking of the at least two mechanically stacked modules 832 and vertically aligns the plurality of solar cells and / or transparent solar cells of the at least two mechanically stacked modules 832.

[0046] According to one or more embodiments, environment 800 can also include a uniform design in which modules 832 are connected in series or parallel. For example, each cell of module 832 can supply 1.5 volts. Further, 32 cells can be connected in series within each module 832, and these can be further connected in series for each string 820 (e.g., 18 modules 832 connected in series for each string 820 supply 864 volts). Inverter 815 can combine 32 strings 820 in parallel to generate a high current supplied to grid 870. According to one or more embodiments, environment 800 can also include a hierarchical design in which the modules 832 of one or more strings 820 are connected in parallel, the modules 832 of one or more strings 820 are connected in series, and / or combinations thereof (e.g., a set of hierarchies managed in a hybrid environment).

[0047] The support structure 810 may be a pre-wired modular rack system incorporating one or more of the technical aspects described herein (e.g., modular DC optimizers). According to one or more embodiments, the support structure 810 may be an assembly of its one or more modular devices 830. The structure of the support structure 810 may be made of carbon fiber, steel, metal, alloy, wood, plastic, fiberglass, or any combination thereof. According to one or more embodiments, the support structure 810 may be a "smart track" system provided with a sensor 836 and the ability to be communicatively coupled to a device 860.

[0048] The modular device 830 (e.g., a framework or a stacked structure) can be any integrated system that provides an application for a three-dimensional solar system. In accordance with one or more technical effects, advantages, and benefits, the modular device 830 enables easy movement, replacement, and / or exchange of the module 832, for example, for a next-generation module 832. The modular device 830 stacks the modules 832 vertically to maximize the solar energy captured per square meter of surface area. Further, the vertical orientation of the modules 832 within the modular device 830 enables capturing each bandgap, cooling, spacing, etc. According to one or more embodiments, the modular device 830 can utilize a shell or casing that holds a plurality of solar modules on top of one another, with or without a space 640 that allows an air flow for cooling therebetween. According to one or more embodiments, the upper solar module can be a concentrator or a micro-concentrator, one or more intermediate modules can be one or more transmissive modules, and the bottom module can capture or reflect the remaining light energy (e.g., infrared). In one example, it is noted that the modular device 830 stacks four layers of the module 832, and each module 832 corresponds to one of the strings 820.

[0049] In accordance with one or more technical effects, advantages, and benefits, the modular device 830 enables a single p-n junction cell (which is cost-effective compared to other technologies) to be layered in a stacked structure, which mimics the tandem cell concept without electrically differentiating the layers by coupling modules 832. Further, in accordance with one or more technical effects, advantages, and benefits, the modular device 830 provides modularization that is improved to facilitate on-site installation to reduce the balance of plant (BOP) cost structure. For example, the price of solar modules currently corresponds to approximately $0.40 per watt for the cost of a utility-scale solar power project in the United States, including the diminishing returns in cost reduction of solar cells. Also, cost reduction of BOP has hardly progressed with conventional solar power generation technologies and does not decrease in proportion to the progress of conventional solar power generation technologies. Various government agencies aim to set the threshold of the total cost of a solar power plant at $0.50 per watt (DC) to ensure cost competitiveness with conventional fossil fuels. This goal can only be achieved if the BOP cost is significantly improved. The way to achieve this goal is to lower the power production cost by increasing the capture rate of sunlight per unit ground surface area and by dispersing the BOP cost over higher kWh of power production. Further, in accordance with one or more technical effects, advantages, and benefits, the modular device 830 is more feasible in homes and commercial buildings with limited rooftop and floor area. Next, the modular device 830 can turn a building into a net-zero power consumer and substantially disconnect from the grid 870. Further, in accordance with one or more technical effects, advantages, and benefits, the environment 800 can salvage the infrastructure while having the flexibility to utilize future technological improvements (e.g., the lifespan of solar light is on average 15 years, while in contrast, the environment 800 can currently extend its lifespan to over 50 years).

[0050] Next, referring to FIG. 9, a computing system 900 is shown in accordance with one or more embodiments. The computing system 900 can represent any computing device, computing apparatus, and / or computing environment, which can include hardware, software, or a combination thereof. Further, embodiments of the disclosed computing system 900 can include apparatus, systems, methods, and / or computer program products of integration at any possible technical detail level. Generally, the computing system 900 of FIG. 9 operates to monitor at least the device 100 of FIG. 1 and its components. For example, the computing system 900 can detect anomalies, degradation, operation, etc., and adjust with other systems and data of these systems (e.g., weather data) to accept, process, and estimate the health of at least the device 100 of FIG. 1 and its components (e.g., utilizing operations of big data related to machine learning and artificial intelligence).

[0051] The computing system 900 has a device 905 (e.g., the device 860 of FIG. 8) with one or more central processing units (CPUs), which are collectively or generally referred to as the processor 910. The processor 910 is also called a processing circuit and is coupled to the system memory 920 and various other components via a system bus 915. The computing system 900 and / or the device 905 may be adapted or configured to execute as an online platform, server, embedded computing system, personal computer, console, personal digital assistant (PDA), mobile phone, tablet computing device, quantum computing device, cloud computing device, mobile device, smartphone, fixed mobile device, smart display, wearable computer, etc.

[0052] Processor 910 may be any type of general-purpose or special-purpose processor, including a central processing unit (CPU), an application-specific integrated circuit (ASIC), a field-programmable gate array (FPGA), a graphics processing unit (GPU), a controller, a multi-core processor, a three-dimensional processor, a quantum computing device, or any combination thereof. Processor 910 may have multiple processing cores, and at least some of the cores may be configured to perform specific functions. Multi-parallel processing may be configured. Further, at least Processor 910 may be a neuromorphic circuit including processing elements that mimic biological neurons.

[0053] System bus 915 (or other communication mechanism) is configured to communicate information or data with other various components such as Processor 910, System Memory 920, and Adapter 925.

[0054] System Memory 920 is an example of a (non-transitory) computer-readable storage medium, where Software 930 may be stored as software components, modules, engines, instructions, etc. to be executed by Processor 910 to operate Device 905 as described herein. System Memory 920 can include any combination of static storage such as read-only memory (ROM), random access memory (RAM), internal or external flash memory, embedded static RAM (SRAM), solid-state memory, cache, magnetic disk, or optical disk, or any other type of volatile or non-volatile memory. A non-transitory computer-readable storage medium may be any medium accessible by Processor 910 and may include volatile media, non-volatile media, etc. For example, ROM may be coupled to System Bus 915 and may include a basic input / output system (BIOS) that controls certain basic functions of Device 905, and RAM is a read-write memory coupled to System Bus 915 for use by Processor 910. A non-transitory computer-readable storage medium can include any medium such as removable, non-removable, etc.

[0055] According to one or more embodiments, software 930 can be configured in hardware, software, or a hybrid implementation. Software 930 can be composed of modules that communicate operationally with each other and pass information or instructions. According to one or more embodiments, software 930 can provide one or more user interfaces instead of and / or directly as needed in place of an operating system or other application. The user interface can include, but is not limited to, a graphical user interface, a window interface, an Internet browser, and / or other visual interfaces for applications, operating systems, file folders, etc. Thus, user activity can include any interaction or operation of the user interface provided by software 930. Software 930 can further include custom modules for executing application-specific processes or derivatives thereof so that computing system 900 can include additional functionality. For example, according to one or more embodiments, software 930 can be configured to store information, instructions, commands, or data that is executed or processed by processor 910 to logically implement the methods described herein (e.g., big data operations related to machine learning and artificial intelligence). Software 930 in FIG. 9 can represent an operating system, a mobile application, a client application, etc. for device 905 for computing system 900.

[0056] Adapter 925 can represent one or more adapters of device 905 such as an input / output (I / O) adapter, a device adapter, and / or a communication adapter. According to one or more embodiments, adapter 925 may be connected to one or more I / O buses that are connected to system bus 915 via an intermediate bus bridge. Appropriate I / O buses for connecting peripheral devices such as a hard disk controller, a network adapter, and a graphic adapter usually include common protocols such as Peripheral Component Interconnect (PCI).

[0057] According to one or more embodiments, the I / O adapter can be configured as Frequency Division Multiple Access (FDMA), Single Carrier FDMA (SC-FDMA), Time Division Multiple Access (TDMA), Code Division Multiple Access (CDMA), Orthogonal Frequency Division Multiplexing (OFDM), Orthogonal Frequency Division Multiple Access (OFDMA), Global System for Mobile Communications (GSM) communication, General Packet Radio Service (GPRS), Universal Mobile Telecommunications System (UMTS), cdma2000, Wideband CDMA (W-CDMA), High-Speed Downlink Packet Access (HSDPA), High-Speed Uplink Packet Access (HSUPA), High-Speed Packet Access (HSPA), Long-Term Evolution (LTE), LTE-Advanced (LTE-A), 802.11x, Wi-Fi, Zigbee, Ultra-Wideband (UWB), 802.16x, 802.15, Home Node B (HnB), Bluetooth, Radio Frequency Identification (RFID), Infrared Data Association (IrDA), Near Field Communication (NFC), Fifth Generation (5G), New Radio (NR), or a Small Computer System Interface (SCSI) considering other wireless or wired devices / transceivers for communication.

[0058] According to one or more embodiments, the device adapter interconnects input / output devices to system bus 915 such as display 941, sensor 942, controller 943, etc. (e.g., camera, speaker, etc.).

[0059] The display 941 is configured to provide one or more UIs or graphical UIs (GUIs) that can be captured and analyzed by the software 930 when a user interacts with the device 905. Examples of the display 941 can include, but are not limited to, plasma, liquid crystal display (LCD), light emitting diode (LED), field emission display (FED), organic light emitting diode (OLED) display, flexible OLED display, flexible substrate display, projection display, 4K display, high definition (HD) display, Retina (registered trademark) display, in-plane switching (IPS) display, etc. The display 941 can be configured as a touch, three-dimensional (3D) touch, multi-input touch, or multi-touch display that uses resistive, capacitive, surface acoustic wave (SAW) capacitive, infrared, optical imaging, diffused signal technology, acoustic pulse recognition, frustrated total reflection, etc., as understood by those skilled in the art for input / output (I / O).

[0060] A sensor 942, such as any transducer configured to convert one or more environmental conditions into an electrical signal, may further be coupled to a system bus 915 for input to device 905. Further, one or more inputs may be provided to computing system 900 remotely via another computing system in communication (e.g., computing system 955), or device 905 may operate autonomously. For example, sensor 942 can include one or more of an electrode, a temperature sensor (e.g., thermocouple), a current sensor, a light sensor, an acceleration sensor, a microphone, a radiation sensor, a proximity sensor, a position sensor, and a long range (LoRa) sensor (e.g., any low power wide area network modulation sensor). According to one or more embodiments, sensor 942 can be installed at each level and integrated into the environment (e.g., sensor 845 of environment 800 in FIG. 8) to monitor the operation in the environment, such as to identify when a particular module (e.g., module 832 of environment 800 in FIG. 8) is not functioning correctly. For example, when the current of a module falls below a defined threshold, sensor 942 (e.g., a current sensor) sends a signal to software 930 to identify the exact location of the malfunctioning module. Each sensor 942 includes a serial number that can be matched to each module / modular device / frame, etc. (e.g., identified by a scannable code) and the corresponding level of the environment (e.g., environment 800 in FIG. 8).

[0061] A controller 943, such as a computer mouse, touch pad, touch screen, keyboard, keypad, etc., may further be coupled to a system bus 915 for input to device 905. Further, one or more inputs may be provided to computing system 900 remotely via another computing system in communication (e.g., computing system 955), or device 905 may operate autonomously. Controller 943 may represent one or more actuators, etc. for moving, locking, unlocking a portion of the environment (e.g., environment 800 in FIG. 8).

[0062] According to one or more embodiments, the communication adapter interconnects the system bus 915 with a network 950, which may be an external network, enabling the device 905 to communicate data with other similar devices (e.g., a computing system 955 via the network 950).

[0063] According to one or more embodiments, the functionality of the device 905 regarding the software 930 can also be implemented in the computing system 955, as shown by another instance of the software 990. The software 990 can be stored in a common repository located in the device 905 and / or the computing system 955, and it is noted that it can be downloaded (on demand) to and from each of the device 995 and / or the computing system 955.

[0064] According to one or more embodiments, a device is provided. The device includes at least two mechanically stacked layers, including a bottom layer and one or more upper layers. Each of the one or more upper layers includes at least one transmissive solar cell configured to convert light energy into electricity and pass the unconverted portion of the light energy towards the bottom layer. The bottom layer includes at least one solar cell configured to convert at least a portion of the unconverted portion of the light energy into electricity.

[0065] According to any of one or more embodiments herein or embodiments of the device, at least one solar cell of the bottom layer can include a transmissive solar cell.

[0066] According to any of one or more embodiments herein or embodiments of the device, the device can include a reflective layer under the bottom layer.

[0067] According to one or more embodiments herein or any of the embodiments of the device, each of the at least two mechanically laminated layers can be electrically distinguished from the other layers of the at least two mechanically laminated layers.

[0068] According to one or more embodiments herein or any of the embodiments of the device, the one or more upper layers can include a first upper layer including the at least one transparent solar cell and a transparent section on the solar side of the transparent solar cell.

[0069] According to one or more embodiments herein or any of the embodiments of the device, the bottom layer can include an upper transparent section on the solar side of the at least one solar cell and a rear section on the side opposite to the solar side.

[0070] According to one or more embodiments herein or any of the embodiments of the device, at least one transparent solar cell of the first upper layer and the upper transparent section of the bottom layer may be adjacent.

[0071] According to one or more embodiments herein or any of the embodiments of the device, the first upper layer and the bottom layer can be sealed around the at least two mechanically laminated layers.

[0072] According to one or more embodiments herein or any of the embodiments of the device, the first upper layer can include a bottom section on the side opposite to the solar side.

[0073] According to one or more embodiments herein or any of the embodiments of the device, the bottom section of the first upper layer and the upper transparent section of the bottom layer can be adjacent.

[0074] According to one or more embodiments herein or any of the embodiments of the device, the bottom layer and the first upper layer are close to each other, and a space can be formed therebetween.

[0075] According to one or more embodiments herein or any of the embodiments of the device, the space can be sealed around the at least two mechanically laminated layers by a gap filler and an adhesive.

[0076] According to one or more embodiments herein or any of the embodiments of the device, the space can be sealed around the at least two mechanically laminated layers by a screen, a waterproof membrane, or an air filter.

[0077] According to one or more embodiments herein or any of the embodiments of the device, the device can further include a support structure that fixes the mechanical lamination of the at least two mechanically laminated layers.

[0078] According to one or more embodiments herein or any of the embodiments of the device, the support structure can include a frame and a rail system.

[0079] According to one or more embodiments herein or any of the embodiments of the device, the support structure can include snap buttons and a slot system.

[0080] According to one or more embodiments herein or any of the embodiments of the device, the support structure can include a peripheral mold along the outer edge of each of the at least two mechanically laminated layers, and each peripheral mold can be configured to laminate with an adjacent peripheral mold.

[0081] According to one or more embodiments, a modular device is provided. The modular device includes at least two mechanically stacked modules including a module layer and one or more upper modules. Each of the one or more upper modules includes a plurality of transmissive solar cells configured to convert light energy received on a first side into electricity and pass an unconverted portion of the light energy to the next module of the at least two mechanically stacked modules on a second side. The bottom module includes a plurality of solar cells configured to convert at least a portion of the unconverted portion of the light energy into electricity.

[0082] According to any one of one or more embodiments herein or embodiments of the modular device, the mechanical stacking of the at least two mechanically stacked modules can align the plurality of solar cells of the bottom module perpendicular to each of the plurality of transmissive solar cells of each of the one or more upper modules.

[0083] According to one or more embodiments, a system is provided. The system includes a plurality of modular devices. Each modular device includes at least two mechanically stacked modules. The at least two mechanically stacked modules include a bottom module and one or more upper modules. Each of the one or more upper modules includes a plurality of transmissive solar cells configured to convert light energy into electricity and pass an unconverted portion of the light energy toward the bottom module. The bottom module includes a plurality of solar cells configured to convert at least a portion of the unconverted portion of the light energy into electricity. The system includes at least two strings. Each string corresponds to and is electrically connected to receive electricity from one of the at least two mechanically stacked modules. Each string is electrically distinct from other strings. The system includes a support structure that fixes the mechanical stacking of the at least two mechanically stacked modules and aligns the plurality of solar cells of the bottom module perpendicular to the plurality of transmissive solar cells of each of the one or more upper modules.

[0084] The flowcharts and block diagrams in the figures illustrate the architecture, functionality, and operation of possible implementations of systems, methods, and computer program products according to various embodiments of the present invention. In this regard, each block in the flowchart or block diagram may represent a module, segment, or portion of instructions, which includes one or more executable instructions for implementing a particular logical function. In some alternative implementations, the functions described in the blocks may occur in a different order than that depicted in the figures. For example, two blocks shown in succession may in fact be executed substantially simultaneously, or the blocks may be executed in the reverse order depending on the functionality involved. It should also be noted that each block of the block diagrams and / or flowchart diagrams, and combinations of blocks in the block diagrams and / or flowchart diagrams, can be implemented by a special-purpose hardware-based system that performs a particular function or operation, or by a combination of special-purpose hardware and computer instructions.

[0085] The features and elements have been described in specific combinations above, but those skilled in the art will understand that each feature or element can be used alone or in any combination with other features and elements. Further, the methods described herein may be implemented by a computer program, software, or firmware incorporated into a computer-readable medium so as to be executed by a computer or processor. The computer-readable medium as used herein should not be construed to be a transient signal per se, such as a radio wave or other freely propagating electromagnetic wave, an electromagnetic wave propagating through a waveguide or other transmission medium (e.g., an optical pulse passing through an optical fiber cable), or an electrical signal transmitted through a wire.

[0086] Examples of computer-readable media include electrical signals (transmitted via wired or wireless connections) and computer-readable storage media. Examples of computer-readable storage media include magnetic media such as registers, cache memories, semiconductor memory devices, internal hard disks, and removable disks, magneto-optical media, optical media such as compact discs (CDs) and digital versatile discs (DVDs), random access memory (RAM), read-only memory (ROM), erasable programmable read-only memory (EPROM or flash memory), static random access memory (SRAM), and memory sticks, but are not limited thereto. Processors associated with software can be used to implement radio frequency transceivers for use in terminals, base stations, or any host computer.

[0087] The terms used herein are for the purpose of describing particular embodiments only and are not intended to be limiting. As used herein, the singular forms "a", "an", and "the" are intended to include the plural forms as well, unless the context clearly dictates otherwise. Further, when the terms "comprises" and / or "comprising" are used in this specification, they specify the presence of the described features, integers, steps, operations, elements, and / or components, but do not preclude the presence or addition of one or more other features, integers, steps, operations, elements, components, and / or groups thereof.

[0088] The descriptions of the various embodiments herein are presented for purposes of illustration but are not intended to be exhaustive or limiting. Many modifications and variations will be apparent to those of ordinary skill in the art without departing from the scope and spirit of the described embodiments. The terms used herein are chosen in order to best explain the principles of the embodiments, the practical application to technologies found in the marketplace, or the technical improvements thereof, or to enable others of ordinary skill in the art to understand the embodiments disclosed herein.

Claims

1. A device, comprising: at least two electrically distinct layers, the at least two electrically distinct layers being mechanically stacked, the at least two electrically distinct layers being electrically independent and operating independently within the device, the at least two electrically distinct layers being: a bottom layer including one or more silicon cells; and A top layer including one or more transparent solar cells. Including, the one or more transparent solar cells convert a first portion of light energy into electricity to output a first power and transmit unconverted light energy toward the bottom layer; The bottom layer converts at least a portion of the unconverted portion of the light energy into electricity to output a second electric power, separately from the first electric power. device.

2. The device of claim 1 , producing an overall power conversion efficiency from the first power and the second power.

3. The device of claim 1 including a reflective layer adjacent to the bottom layer.

4. The device of claim 1 , wherein the mechanical lamination of the at least two electrically distinct layers vertically aligns the one or more silicon cells and the one or more transparent solar cells.

5. two or more electrically distinct strings; each layer of the at least two electrically distinct layers is electrically connected to a corresponding one of the two or more electrically distinct strings; The device of claim 1 .

6. 13. The device of claim 1, wherein mechanically stacking the one or more silicon cells and the one or more transparent solar cells in vertical alignment results in a power conversion efficiency of the device that is higher than the power conversion efficiency of the bottom layer alone in the device.

7. The device of claim 1 further comprising a support structure that secures the mechanical lamination of the at least two electrically distinct layers.

8. The device of claim 1 , wherein the one or more silicon cells in the bottom layer comprise a transparent solar cell.

9. 10. The device of claim 1, wherein one or more of the at least two mechanically stacked electrically distinct layers are configured to be removable from the device to allow for installation of one or more replacement electrically distinct layers that independently generate the first or second power.

10. 1. A system comprising: at least two electrically distinct layers, the at least two electrically distinct layers being mechanically stacked, the at least two electrically distinct layers being electrically independent and operating independently within the system, the at least two electrically distinct layers comprising: a bottom layer including one or more silicon cells; and A top layer including one or more transparent solar cells. Including, the one or more transparent solar cells convert a first portion of light energy into electricity to output a first power and transmit unconverted light energy toward the bottom layer; The bottom layer converts at least a portion of the unconverted portion of the light energy into electricity to output a second electric power, separately from the first electric power. A system characterized by:

11. The system of claim 10 , generating an overall power conversion efficiency from the first power and the second power.

12. The system of claim 10 including a reflective layer adjacent to the bottom layer.

13. The system of claim 10 , wherein the mechanical lamination of the at least two electrically distinct layers vertically aligns the one or more silicon cells and the one or more transparent solar cells.

14. two or more electrically distinct strings; each layer of the at least two electrically distinct layers is electrically connected to a corresponding one of the two or more electrically distinct strings; The system of claim 10.

15. 11. The system of claim 10, wherein mechanically stacking the one or more silicon cells and the one or more transparent solar cells in vertical alignment results in a power conversion efficiency of the system that is higher than the power conversion efficiency of the bottom layer alone in the system.

16. The system of claim 10 , further comprising a support structure that secures the mechanical lamination of the at least two mechanically laminated layers.

17. The system of claim 10 , wherein the one or more silicon cells in the bottom layer comprise a transparent solar cell.

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