Installation structure of photovoltaic power generation sheet

The photovoltaic sheet installation structure secures panels to convex portions with fillers to prevent deformation and damage, improving maintenance and power generation efficiency on uneven surfaces.

JP2025181765APending Publication Date: 2025-12-11SEKISUI CHEMICAL CO LTD
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Patent Information

Application Number
JP2025088638
Authority / Receiving Office
JP · JP
Patent Type
Applications
Current Assignee / Owner
Priority Date
2024-05-29
Filing Date
2025-05-28
Publication Date
2025-12-11

AI Technical Summary

Technical Problem

Flexible solar panels installed on uneven surfaces face issues with deformation, damage, and maintenance challenges due to wind-induced bending and vibration, especially when installed across recesses, which can lead to electrical hazards and reduced power generation efficiency.

Method used

A photovoltaic sheet installation structure that uses fixing members to secure the panel to convex portions and fills the space beneath with clip-shaped or cap-shaped fillers to stabilize the panel, reducing deformation and preventing damage.

Benefits of technology

The structure effectively reduces panel deformation and damage, enhances maintenance accessibility, and maintains power generation efficiency by stabilizing the panel on uneven surfaces.

✦ Generated by Eureka AI based on patent content.

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Abstract

To provide an installation structure of a photovoltaic power generation sheet capable of reducing deformation of a photovoltaic power generation sheet and suppressing damage to the photovoltaic power generation sheet.SOLUTION: An installation structure of a photovoltaic power generation sheet includes: an installation surface having two or more protrusions arranged in parallel with each other; a photovoltaic power generation sheet arranged to cross between the protrusions; a stationary member for fixing the photovoltaic power generation sheet to the protrusions; and a filling member arranged in a space which overlaps with the stationary member when viewed planarly from above the photovoltaic power generation sheet on at least one end part of the photovoltaic power generation sheet that crosses between the protrusions.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 1
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Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] The present invention relates to an installation structure for a photovoltaic sheet. [Background technology]

[0002] Rigid solar cell panels made of silicon semiconductors have traditionally been widely used as solar cells. However, because conventional solar cell panels are relatively heavy, they cannot be installed on some structures with low load-bearing capacity. Furthermore, even on installation surfaces where installation is possible, they cannot be installed in locations with low load-bearing capacity, resulting in ineffective use of the installation surface area. Therefore, in recent years, attention has been focused on flexible solar cells using heat-resistant polymer materials such as polyimide and polyester, or metal foil as a base material. Flexible solar cells have advantages such as thinness and light weight, which make them easy to transport and install, and they are resistant to impacts. Photovoltaic power generation sheets using flexible solar cells can be installed on installation surfaces with low load-bearing capacity, and can be installed along the installation surface even if the installation surface has unevenness (e.g., Patent Document 1). [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0003] [Patent Document 1] International Publication No. 2023 / 182435 Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0004] When installing a photovoltaic sheet on an uneven installation surface, as in Patent Document 1, installing the photovoltaic sheet along the unevenness of the installation surface is effective from the perspective of maximizing the power generation area. However, while installing a photovoltaic sheet along the unevenness of the installation surface increases the power generation area, it has the problem of poor maintenance, such as replacing the photovoltaic sheet. Typically, the building materials or structures on which the photovoltaic sheet is installed have a longer lifespan than the photovoltaic sheet, so it is expected that the photovoltaic sheet will be replaced when it reaches the end of its lifespan. In this case, if the photovoltaic sheet is installed along the unevenness, the replacement process becomes complicated and maintenance becomes difficult. Therefore, a method of installing the photovoltaic sheet across a recess has been considered to facilitate maintenance. However, installing a photovoltaic sheet across a recess causes deformation such as bending and vibration when wind blows into the space formed between the photovoltaic sheet and the recess, which can lead to damage, scattering, and wiring breakage of the photovoltaic sheet. Unlike other sheets, solar panels in particular pose a high risk of electrical leakage if damaged. Even deformation that does not cause damage can change the amount of light that hits the panels, affecting the amount of power generated, placing a strain on power generation locally and shortening the lifespan of the solar panels, making deformation a more serious problem.

[0005] The present invention aims to provide a photovoltaic sheet installation structure that can reduce deformation of the photovoltaic sheet and prevent damage to the photovoltaic sheet. [Means for solving the problem]

[0006] The present invention includes the following Disclosures 1 to 10. The present invention will be described in detail below. [Disclosure 1] An installation surface having two or more protrusions, the protrusions being arranged so as to be parallel to each other; a photovoltaic sheet disposed across the convex portions; a fixing member that fixes the photovoltaic sheet to the protrusion; a filler member that is placed in a space that overlaps with the fixing member when viewed from above the photovoltaic sheet, at at least one end of the photovoltaic sheet that crosses the convex portion; A solar power generation sheet installation structure comprising: [Disclosure 2] The photovoltaic sheet installation structure according to Disclosure 1, wherein the filling member is a clip-shaped filling member. [Disclosure 3] The photovoltaic sheet installation structure according to Disclosure 1, wherein the filling member is a cap-shaped filling member. [Disclosure 4] The photovoltaic sheet installation structure according to Disclosure 1, wherein the filling member is a filler. [Disclosure 5] The photovoltaic sheet installation structure according to Disclosure 2 or 3, wherein the filling member has a modulus of longitudinal elasticity of 1000 MPa or more. [Disclosure 6] The photovoltaic sheet installation structure according to Disclosure 4, wherein the filler has a viscosity of 1000 Pa·s or more and 2500 Pa·s or less at 40°C before hardening. [Disclosure 7] The installation structure for a photovoltaic sheet according to any one of Disclosures 1 to 6, wherein the convex portion has a flat portion, and the photovoltaic sheet is adhered to the flat portion at a portion that overlaps with the fixing member when viewed in a plan view from above the photovoltaic sheet, at at least one end of the photovoltaic sheet that crosses the convex portion. [Disclosure 8] The photovoltaic sheet installation structure according to any one of Disclosures 1 to 7, wherein the installation surface has a slope, and the direction of the slope is parallel to the extension direction of the convex portions. [Disclosure 9] The solar power generation sheet installation structure described in Disclosure 8 is characterized in that a plurality of the solar power generation sheets are arranged on the installation surface having the slope, and the filling member is arranged at least at the end of the plurality of solar power generation sheets that crosses between the convex portions and is located furthest down the slope. [Disclosure 10] The solar power generation sheet installation structure described in Disclosure 9 is characterized in that a plurality of the solar power generation sheets are arranged on the installation surface having the slope, and the filling member is arranged at least at the end of the plurality of solar power generation sheets that crosses between the convex portions and is located furthest up the slope. [Effects of the Invention]

[0007] According to the present invention, it is possible to provide a photovoltaic sheet installation structure that can reduce deformation of the photovoltaic sheet and prevent damage to the photovoltaic sheet. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0008] [Figure 1] FIG. 1 is a perspective view schematically illustrating an example of an installation structure for a photovoltaic sheet according to the present invention. [Figure 2] FIG. 1 is a cross-sectional view schematically illustrating an example of an installation structure for a photovoltaic sheet according to the present invention. [Figure 3] FIG. 10 is a perspective view schematically illustrating another example of an installation structure for a photovoltaic sheet of the present invention. [Figure 4] FIG. 10 is a cross-sectional view schematically illustrating another example of an installation structure for the photovoltaic sheet of the present invention. [Figure 5] FIG. 10 is a perspective view schematically illustrating another example of an installation structure for a photovoltaic sheet of the present invention. [Figure 6] FIG. 10 is a cross-sectional view schematically illustrating another example of an installation structure for the photovoltaic sheet of the present invention. [Figure 7] FIG. 10 is a perspective view schematically illustrating another example of an installation structure for a photovoltaic sheet of the present invention. [Figure 8] FIG. 10 is a cross-sectional view schematically illustrating another example of an installation structure for the photovoltaic sheet of the present invention. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0009] The present invention will be described in more detail below by giving specific embodiments, but the present invention is not limited to these embodiments.

[0010] (Embodiment 1) Figure 1 shows a perspective view that schematically illustrates an example of an installation structure for a photovoltaic sheet of the present invention, and Figure 2 shows a cross-sectional view that schematically illustrates an example of an installation structure for a photovoltaic sheet of the present invention. Figures 1 and 2 show an example in which a photovoltaic sheet is installed on a seam-fastened folded-plate roof that has a slope that descends from the upper right to the lower left of the figure. In embodiment 1, a photovoltaic sheet 1 is placed across the protrusions 21 on an installation surface (folded-plate roof) 2, where two or more convex portions 21 are arranged parallel to one another and continuous in one direction. The photovoltaic sheet 1 is also fixed to the installation surface 2 by fixing members 3 that sandwich and fix the photovoltaic sheet 1 at the upper ends (ridges) of the convex portions 21. Furthermore, at least one end (the side on the near side along the Y axis in FIG. 1 ) of the photovoltaic sheet 1 that crosses the convex portions 21 is provided with a filler member that is placed in a space that overlaps with the fixing member 3 when viewed from above the photovoltaic sheet 1 in a plan view (hereinafter also referred to as the space below the fixing member). In other words, when a cross section of the installed photovoltaic sheet 1 is viewed as in FIG. 2 , a filler member is placed in the space surrounded by the fixing member 3, the photovoltaic sheet 1, and the perpendicular line drawn from the end where the width of the fixing member 3 is greatest. In the first embodiment, the filling member is a clip-like filling member 4, and the clip-like filling member 4 has two legs 41 that fill the space below the fixing member and are connected by a connecting portion 42 that is shaped so as not to interfere with the protrusions 21. The legs 41 of the clip-like filling member 4 sandwich and fill the space below the fixing member at the end of the photovoltaic sheet 1, and firmly fix the photovoltaic sheet 1 to the protrusions 21.

[0011] When installing conventional rigid solar panels made of silicon solar cells on uneven surfaces, the solar panel's inability to deform meant that flat solar panels were installed on top of the convex portions. Furthermore, conventional solar panels were highly rigid and heavy, meaning they remained stable even when wind blew into the gaps between them. On the other hand, because solar panels are flexible and lightweight, when they are placed across a concave portion like conventional solar panels, wind blowing into the concave portion can cause deformation such as bending or vibration at the edges of the solar panel. When the solar panel deforms, the tension of the solar panel generates a bending moment on the convex portions, tilting the fixing members. The tilt of the fixing members causes an imbalance in the fixing force of the solar panel, which can lead to damage and scattering of the solar panel or broken wiring over long-term use. In this invention, the space below the fixing member at at least one edge of the photovoltaic sheet that crosses between the convex portions is filled with a filling member, and the photovoltaic sheet is firmly fixed to the convex portions, making it difficult for the edge of the photovoltaic sheet to deform and reducing tilt of the fixing member, thereby reducing damage to the photovoltaic sheet and disconnection of the wiring.

[0012] In this specification, "up" refers to the direction from which light is incident (the +Z axis direction in the figure), and "down" refers to the direction from which the installation surface is located (the -Z axis direction in the figure). "Depth direction" refers to the extension direction of the convex portions (the Y axis direction in the figure), and "width direction" refers to the direction perpendicular to the depth direction (the X axis direction in the figure), that is, the direction in which the convex portions are lined up. "Front side" refers to the -Y axis direction in the figure, and "back side" refers to the +Y axis direction in the figure. "Parallel" includes not only perfect parallelism but also substantial parallelism within a certain error range.

[0013] The present invention can be applied to any type of installation surface, as long as two consecutive convex portions are arranged parallel to each other in one direction and the photovoltaic sheet can be fixed to the convex portions. Examples of the installation surface include vertically roofed roofs such as folded-plate roofs and tiled roofs. Among these, folded-plate roofs with seams have low seam strength, making the photovoltaic sheet more susceptible to deformation, and therefore the effects of the present invention are more pronounced. The installation surface may or may not have a slope, but a slope is preferred. Having a slope on the installation surface allows for optimal placement of the photovoltaic sheet, thereby further increasing power generation efficiency. Furthermore, the gradient direction of the gradient is preferably parallel to the extension direction of the convex portions. Aligning the gradient direction with the extension direction of the convex portions prevents water and dirt from accumulating, thereby reducing damage to the photovoltaic sheet.

[0014] The material of the installation surface is not particularly limited, and examples include metals such as steel, aluminum alloy, stainless steel, nickel alloy, copper alloy, etc., hard plastics such as vinyl chloride, polycarbonate, acrylic, polypropylene, ABS resin, AS resin, etc., rubber, ceramic, or composite materials thereof.

[0015] The photovoltaic sheet is a component that generates electricity by receiving sunlight and is characterized by being lightweight, flexible, and thin. In this specification, the term "sheet" refers to a shape in which the thickness of the object is 10% or less of the maximum length between the outer edges in a planar view. When the shape in a planar view is rectangular, the "maximum length between the outer edges in a planar view" refers to the length of the diagonal. Furthermore, when the shape in a planar view is circular, the "maximum length between the outer edges in a planar view" refers to the diameter. Furthermore, in this specification, the term "sheet" also includes membranes, foils, films, and the like.

[0016] The photovoltaic sheet can be a thin solar cell known in the art, such as a photovoltaic sheet having a power generation section sealed with a sealant on a back sheet, or a photovoltaic sheet having a front sheet laminated on the power generation section via a sealant or an adhesive layer. The photoelectric conversion material used in the power generation section of the photovoltaic sheet can also be a known material, such as amorphous silicon, an organic-inorganic perovskite compound, or a non-silicon material such as CIGS.

[0017] The photovoltaic sheet is not particularly limited in planar shape as long as it is in sheet form, and examples thereof include a circle, an ellipse, a polygon, and the like.

[0018] The end side surfaces and peripheral edge of the photovoltaic sheet are preferably covered with a sealing material. Covering the end side surfaces and peripheral edges of the photovoltaic sheet with a sealing material can prevent delamination between the layers of the photovoltaic sheet. It can also further prevent moisture from penetrating through the sides of the photovoltaic sheet. The method for covering the end side surfaces and peripheral edges of the photovoltaic sheet is not particularly limited, and examples include hemming with tape containing the sealing material and covering the sides and peripheral edges by applying a sealing material. Examples of the sealing material include vinyl acetate resin, ethylene vinyl acetate resin, epoxy resin, cyanoacrylate resin, acrylic resin, chloroprene rubber, styrene, butadiene rubber, polyurethane resin, silicone resin, and modified silicone resin.

[0019] The photovoltaic sheet preferably has a bending strength of 10 MPa or more, more preferably 20 MPa or more, and even more preferably 50 MPa or more. Having the lower limit of the bending strength of the photovoltaic sheet within the above range further improves handleability. Furthermore, the photovoltaic sheet preferably has a bending strength of 200 MPa or less, more preferably 150 MPa or less, and even more preferably 50 MPa or less. Having the upper limit of the bending strength of the photovoltaic sheet within the above range further improves flexibility. The bending strength of the photovoltaic sheet can be measured using a method in accordance with JIS K7171.

[0020] The photovoltaic sheet preferably has a flexural modulus of 100 MPa or more, more preferably 500 MPa or more. Having the lower limit of the flexural modulus of the photovoltaic sheet within the above range further improves handleability. Furthermore, the photovoltaic sheet preferably has a flexural modulus of 10,000 MPa or less, more preferably 5,000 MPa or less. Having the upper limit of the flexural modulus of the photovoltaic sheet within the above range further improves flexibility. The flexural modulus of the photovoltaic sheet can be measured using a method in accordance with JIS K7171.

[0021] The photovoltaic sheet may be fixed directly to the installation surface, or the photovoltaic sheet may be fixed to a fiber-containing sheet or the like, and the fiber-containing sheet to which the photovoltaic sheet is fixed may be fixed to the installation surface. Examples of the fiber-containing sheet include a fiber-reinforced sheet or nonwoven fabric in which fibers made of polyethylene, polypropylene, polyester, polylactic acid, polyolefin, asphalt, silica sand, or the like are coated with a resin. Note that when the photovoltaic sheet is fixed to the installation surface via the fiber-containing sheet or the like, the fiber-containing sheet or the like is included in the photovoltaic sheet.

[0022] The direction in which the photovoltaic sheet is arranged is not particularly limited as long as it is arranged so as to cross the convex portions, but it is preferable that the photovoltaic sheet be arranged in a direction perpendicular to the extension direction of the convex portions, as this further reduces deformation of the photovoltaic sheet. Furthermore, if the photovoltaic sheet is a long sheet, the photovoltaic sheet may be arranged so that its long side is in the width direction of the installation surface, as shown in Figures 1 and 2, or so that its long side is in the depth direction of the installation surface.

[0023] The photovoltaic sheet is preferably arranged so that it does not come into contact with the installation surface other than the convex portions. By arranging the photovoltaic sheet so that it does not come into contact with the installation surface other than the convex portions, that is, by arranging the photovoltaic sheet so that it bridges the convex portions while stretched, deformation of the photovoltaic sheet can be further suppressed.

[0024] When the convex portion has a flat portion, it is preferable that the solar power generation sheet is adhered to the flat portion at least at one end of the solar power generation sheet that crosses the convex portion, in a portion that overlaps with the fixing member when viewed in a planar view from above the solar power generation sheet. In the case of a folded-plate roof in FIG. 1, where the convex portion has a flat portion midway and the photovoltaic sheet is fixed so that it contacts the flat portion, the effect of the filler is enhanced by bonding the photovoltaic sheet to the flat portion in the space below the fixing member, thereby further suppressing deformation of the photovoltaic sheet. When the photovoltaic sheet is arranged as shown in FIG. 1, the depth direction length of the bonded end is preferably 3 cm or more from the end of the photovoltaic sheet, more preferably 10 cm or more, and even more preferably 30 cm or more. Furthermore, the depth direction length of the bonded end may be determined as a ratio to the depth length of the photovoltaic sheet. When the depth length of the photovoltaic sheet is taken as 100%, the depth direction length is preferably 3% or more from the end, more preferably 10% or more, even more preferably 30% or more, or even 100% (the entire lower surface of the space below the fixing member). Increasing the depth direction length of the bonded end can increase the fixing strength, while shortening it can shorten installation time and improve work efficiency.

[0025] The shape of the fixing member is not particularly limited as long as it can sandwich and fix the photovoltaic sheet between the convex portions, and it may be composed of multiple members. An example of a fixing member composed of a single member is a fixing member that fixes the photovoltaic sheet by sandwiching or crimping it between the convex portions, as shown in Figures 1 and 2. An example of a fixing member composed of multiple members is a fixing member that includes a set of a clip-shaped gasket that temporarily clamps the photovoltaic sheet and the convex portions to fix it, and a fixing member that clamps the photovoltaic sheet and the gasket together with the convex portions to fix it permanently. Fixing methods include a method in which the fixing member is clamped between the convex portions as shown in Figures 1 and 2 and deformed (crimped) to fit the shape of the convex portions to fix it, and a method in which the fixing member is clamped between the convex portions and fixed to the convex portions using a fixing device such as a bolt, screw, or pin.

[0026] The material of the fixing member should have sufficient rigidity to fix the photovoltaic sheet and be capable of plastic deformation, and examples thereof include metals such as steel, aluminum alloy, stainless steel, nickel alloy, copper alloy, etc., hard plastics such as vinyl chloride, polycarbonate, acrylic, polypropylene, ABS resin, AS resin, PPS resin, etc., rubber, ceramic, or composite materials thereof.

[0027] The depth length of the fixing member (the depth length of the fixing member when installed) is not particularly limited as long as it is equal to or greater than the depth length of the photovoltaic sheet when installed, and it may extend beyond the photovoltaic sheet. From a cost perspective, it is preferable that the depth length of the fixing member be close to the depth length of the photovoltaic sheet when installed. Note that when multiple photovoltaic sheets are fixed with a single fixing member, it is preferable that both ends of the fixing member are close to the ends of the photovoltaic sheets that are located at both ends in the depth direction.

[0028] 1 and 2, the shape of the clip-shaped filler is not particularly limited as long as it can be arranged to fill the space below the fixing member at the edge of the photovoltaic sheet, but the surface that comes into contact with the photovoltaic sheet is preferably flat, as this allows for stronger fixing of the photovoltaic sheet to the protrusion. Also, from the perspective of preventing damage to the photovoltaic sheet, it is preferable that the corner of the clip-shaped filler that comes into contact with the photovoltaic sheet is chamfered.

[0029] The material of the clip-shaped filler member is not particularly limited, but it is preferably made of a hard resin, metal, or composite reinforced material, as this allows the photovoltaic sheet to be more firmly fixed in the recess and further reduces deformation.

[0030] If the installation surface has a slope, the clip-shaped filler member is preferably disposed at least at the end of the photovoltaic sheet on the downward slope side. On a sloped installation surface, wind blows up along the slope from the downhill side, so deformation of the photovoltaic sheet can be more effectively suppressed by arranging the clip-shaped filler at least at the downhill end of the photovoltaic sheet, as shown in Figure 1. If the installation surface is horizontal, wind can blow in from both ends of the recess, so the clip-shaped filler is preferably arranged at both ends that cross between the convex portions of the photovoltaic sheet. Furthermore, since deformation of the photovoltaic sheet can be further suppressed even on a sloped installation surface, the clip-shaped filler is preferably arranged at both ends that cross between the convex portions of the photovoltaic sheet.

[0031] When multiple solar power generation sheets are placed on the installation surface having the above-mentioned slope, it is preferable that the filling member is placed at least at the end that is located furthest down the slope among the ends that cross between the above-mentioned convex portions. As mentioned above, wind blows up from the downhill side of the slope, so the wind's force is strongest at the downhill end. Therefore, by placing the filler at the end located furthest downhill, the force of the wind passing through to the rear can be weakened, and deformation of the photovoltaic sheet installed at the rear can also be suppressed. In other words, as long as the filler is placed at the end located furthest downhill, it is not necessary to place the filler on all of the photovoltaic sheets.

[0032] Furthermore, deformation of the photovoltaic sheet is likely to occur in the photovoltaic sheet arranged on both ends of the slope of the installation surface. Therefore, it is more preferable to arrange the filler at the end located furthest down the slope of the edge that crosses the convex portions, as well as the end located furthest up the slope. By arranging the filler at the down-side edge of the photovoltaic sheet arranged furthest down the slope and the up-side edge of the photovoltaic sheet arranged furthest up the slope, the photovoltaic sheet arranged between them can be more effectively prevented from deforming due to wind, even if the filler is not arranged.

[0033] The length of the foot of the clip-shaped filler member (length in the depth direction when installed) is preferably 3 cm or more, more preferably 10 cm or more, and even more preferably 15 cm or more. By setting the length of the foot within the above range, the fixing force of the clip-shaped filler member can be improved, and deformation and scattering of the photovoltaic sheet can be further suppressed. Furthermore, the length of the foot is preferably 20 cm or less, more preferably 10 cm or less, and even more preferably 5 cm or less. By setting the length of the foot within the above range, handling of the clip-shaped filler member when fixed can be improved. The length of the foot can be set to an appropriate length taking into consideration the fixing force of the clip-shaped filler member and handling when fixed. The length of the foot refers to the length when the end of the photovoltaic sheet coincides with the end of the foot on the connection side when installed.

[0034] The thickness of the foot of the clip-shaped filling member (the length in the vertical direction when installed) is preferably 5 mm or more, more preferably 10 mm or more, and even more preferably 15 mm or more. When the thickness of the foot of the clip-shaped filling member is within the above range, it is possible to fill more of the space below the fixing member and firmly fix the photovoltaic sheet to the upper surface of the convex portion, thereby further suppressing deformation of the photovoltaic sheet. Furthermore, the thickness of the foot is preferably 50 mm or less, more preferably 40 mm or less, and even more preferably 30 mm or less. When the thickness of the foot is within the above range, it is possible to improve handling during installation.

[0035] The width of the foot of the clip-shaped filler member (the length in the width direction when installed) is not particularly limited, but if it protrudes too far from the space below the fixing member, it may overlap with the power generation part of the photovoltaic sheet. Therefore, the foot protrudes from the space below the fixing member by a width of 20 mm or less, and more preferably by a width of 10 mm or less. By keeping the protrusion width of the foot from the space below the fixing member below the above-mentioned upper limit, it is possible to maximize the effective power generation area while appropriately suppressing deformation of the photovoltaic sheet.

[0036] The shape of the connecting portion of the clip-shaped filling member is not particularly limited, and can be changed appropriately depending on the shape of the installation surface as long as it can function as a filling member and does not interfere with the protrusions.

[0037] The method for fixing the clip-shaped member is not particularly limited, and the foot portion may be fixed by compressing it toward the fixing member, or the foot portion may be fixed by adhering it to the fixing member or the solar power generation sheet.

[0038] The filling member preferably has a filling rate of 50% or more of the space below the fixing member. By ensuring that the filling rate of the space below the fixing member of the filling member is within the above range, deformation of the photovoltaic sheet can be further suppressed. The filling rate is more preferably 85% or higher. The upper limit of the filling rate is not particularly limited and may be 100%. The filling rate may be the filling rate at any cross section, or may be the filling rate of the entire space below the fixing member formed by one fixing member.

[0039] The clip-shaped filling member preferably has a modulus of longitudinal elasticity of 1000 MPa or more. When the modulus of longitudinal elasticity of the clip-shaped filler is within the above range, the photovoltaic sheet can be more firmly fixed to the protrusions, and deformation can be further suppressed. The modulus of longitudinal elasticity of the clip-shaped filler is more preferably 2500 MPa or more, even more preferably 5000 MPa or more, even more preferably 10 GPa or more, and most preferably 60 GPa or more. There is no particular upper limit for the modulus of longitudinal elasticity of the clip-shaped filler, and the higher the better, but processing technology limits it to about 250 GPa.

[0040] The clip-shaped filler preferably satisfies the Young's modulus at the highest temperature expected in the usage environment. Because photovoltaic sheets are installed outdoors, high temperatures may occur depending on the region and climate in which the sheet is installed, which can reduce the Young's modulus of the clip-shaped filler. Therefore, satisfying the Young's modulus at the highest temperature expected in the usage environment can further enhance the effect of suppressing deformation of the photovoltaic sheet. Specifically, the clip-shaped filler preferably satisfies the Young's modulus at 40°C, more preferably at 50°C, even more preferably at 60°C, and even more preferably at 70°C.

[0041] (Embodiment 2) FIG. 3 is a perspective view showing a schematic representation of another example of an installation structure for a photovoltaic sheet of the present invention, and FIG. 4 is a cross-sectional view showing a schematic representation of another example of an installation structure for a photovoltaic sheet of the present invention. Embodiment 2 is similar to Embodiment 1, but differs in that it uses a U-shaped clip-like filler member 4 as the filler member. Furthermore, the clip-like filler member 4 is disposed only at the downward-facing end of the photovoltaic sheet 1 disposed on the most downward side of the slope of the installation surface 2 (near side on the Y axis) and at the upward-facing end of the photovoltaic sheet 1 disposed on the most upward side of the slope (far side on the Y axis). By disposing clip-like filler members 4 at the downward-facing end of the photovoltaic sheet 1 disposed on the most downward side of the slope and the upward-facing end of the photovoltaic sheet 1 disposed on the most upward side of the slope, deformation of the photovoltaic sheet 1 disposed between the photovoltaic sheets 1 with clip-like filler members 4 disposed therebetween can be suppressed even if the photovoltaic sheet 1 does not have a clip-like filler member 4. The clip-shaped filler member 4 only needs to be disposed at the end of the downward-facing side of the photovoltaic sheet 1 that is disposed at the most downward side of the gradient. Furthermore, other than the shapes of the photovoltaic sheet, the installation surface, the fixing member, and the clip-shaped filler member 4, the rest of the structure is the same as in the first embodiment.

[0042] (Embodiment 3) FIG. 5 is a perspective view showing a schematic representation of another example of an installation structure for a photovoltaic sheet of the present invention, and FIG. 6 is a cross-sectional view showing a schematic representation of another example of an installation structure for a photovoltaic sheet of the present invention. In the third embodiment, a cap-shaped filler 5 is used as the filler. By disposing the cap-shaped filler 5 in the space below the fixing member at the end located at the most downward slope of the installation surface and the end located at the most upward slope, which covers the fixing member 3 together with the end of the protrusion 21, it is possible to suppress deformation of all of the arranged photovoltaic sheets 1. The cap-shaped filler member 5 only needs to be placed at the end of the downward-facing side of the photovoltaic sheet 1 that is placed at the most downward side of the gradient. The photovoltaic sheet, the installation surface, and the fixing member are the same as those in the first embodiment.

[0043] The material of the cap-shaped filling member is not particularly limited, and the same material as that of the clip-shaped filling member can be used.

[0044] The method for fixing the cap-shaped filling member is not particularly limited, and it may be fixed by adhesion or by compressing it onto the convex portion side.

[0045] When the cap-shaped filling member is fixed by adhesive, the thickness of the cap-shaped member is preferably 1 mmμ or more and 30 mm or less. By setting the thickness of the cap-shaped filling member within the above range, it is possible to suppress the weight while exhibiting sufficient strength. When the cap-shaped filling member is fixed by adhesive, the thickness of the cap-shaped filling member is more preferably 3 mm or more and more preferably 15 mm or less.

[0046] When the cap-shaped filling member is fixed by compression, the thickness of the cap-shaped member is preferably 3 mm or more and 40 mm or less. By setting the thickness of the cap-shaped filling member within the above range, the shape of the cap-shaped filling member can be deformed so that it adheres more tightly to the fixing member, thereby enabling more secure fixing. When the cap-shaped filling member is fixed by compression, the thickness of the cap-shaped filling member is more preferably 5 mm or more and more preferably 30 mm or less.

[0047] The cap-shaped filler preferably overlaps the photovoltaic sheet by 1 cm to 10 cm in the depth direction when viewed from above the photovoltaic sheet (hereinafter referred to as the overlap length with the photovoltaic sheet). By setting the depth length of the cap-shaped filler member when installed to overlap the photovoltaic sheet within the above range, it is possible to reduce costs while suppressing deformation of the photovoltaic sheet. The overlap length of the cap-shaped filler member with the photovoltaic sheet is preferably 2 cm or more, even more preferably 3 cm or more, more preferably 7 cm or less, and even more preferably 6 cm or less. The overlap length with the photovoltaic sheet may be determined as a ratio to the depth length of the photovoltaic sheet, and when the depth length of the photovoltaic sheet is taken as 100%, it is preferably 1% or more, more preferably 3% or more, even more preferably 5% or more, preferably 15% or less, more preferably 12% or less, and even more preferably 10% or less.

[0048] (Embodiment 4) Fig. 7 is a perspective view schematically showing another example of an installation structure for a photovoltaic sheet of the present invention, and Fig. 8 is a cross-sectional view schematically showing another example of an installation structure for a photovoltaic sheet of the present invention. In embodiment 4, the filling member placed is a filler 6, and the filler 6 fills the entire depth direction of the space below the fixing member 3.

[0049] The filler is not particularly limited as long as it can fill the space below the fixing member and fix the photovoltaic sheet to the upper surface of the convex portion, and examples thereof include sealants, putties, etc. Specific examples thereof include silicone sealants, acrylic resin or epoxy resin putties, etc.

[0050] If the installation surface has a slope, the filler preferably fills at least the space below the fixing member at the end of the photovoltaic sheet on the downward slope side. Because wind blows up the slope from the downhill side, deformation of the photovoltaic sheet can be more effectively suppressed by filling the space below the fixing member at the downhill end of the photovoltaic sheet. When the installation surface is horizontal, wind can blow in from both ends of the recess, so the filler preferably fills both ends of the photovoltaic sheet that cross between the convex portions. Furthermore, because deformation of the photovoltaic sheet can be more effectively suppressed even on an inclined installation surface, it is preferable for the filler to be located at both ends of the photovoltaic sheet that cross between the convex portions, and it is more preferable for the filler to fill the entire space below the fixing member.

[0051] The filler preferably has a viscosity at 40° C. before curing of 1000 Pa·s or more and 2500 Pa·s or less. Having the viscosity of the filler before hardening (viscosity during application) within the above range makes application easier and allows the photovoltaic sheet to be more firmly fixed to the upper surfaces of the convex portions. The viscosity of the filler before hardening is preferably 1200 Pa·s or more, even more preferably 1500 Pa·s or more, more preferably 2200 Pa·s or less, and even more preferably 2000 Pa·s or less. The viscosity of the filler can be measured according to JIS K7199 when the filler is a thermoplastic resin, or JIS K7210 when the filler is a thermosetting resin.

[0052] When the filler fills only the end of the fixing member, it is preferable that the filler fills the space below the fixing member within a range of 3 cm or more from the end of the fixing member. The filler fills the space below the fixing member within the range from the end of the fixing member, so that the photovoltaic sheet can be more firmly fixed to the upper surface of the convex portion. The filling range of the filler from the end of the fixing member is preferably 10 cm or more, and even more preferably 15 cm or more.

[0053] (Installation method) An example of a method for installing the photovoltaic sheet according to the first embodiment of the present invention will now be described. First, a worker places the photovoltaic sheet parallel to the width of the folded-plate roof. Next, a fastening member with a claw-like fastener is placed on the seam (convex portion) of the folded-plate roof, and the fastening member is tightened toward the seam to secure the photovoltaic sheet. Next, the photovoltaic sheet is pulled to a taut state between the adjacent seams (a state in which the photovoltaic sheet is in contact with nothing but the convex portion), and then the fastening member is tightened to secure the photovoltaic sheet. If the fastening member has the above-mentioned gasket, the solar panel is first temporarily fixed by sandwiching it between the seams with the gasket, and then the fastening member with a claw-like fastener is tightened. By repeating the above process up to the end of the photovoltaic sheet, the photovoltaic sheet is secured in place, crossing the convex portions. Finally, a clip-like filler member is placed on the end of the photovoltaic sheet, and if the fixation is loose, the foot is tightened or the fixing member is attached to complete the installation structure of the photovoltaic sheet of the present invention. [Explanation of symbols]

[0054] 1. Solar power generation sheet 2 Installation surface 21 Convex part 3 Fixing member 4 Clip-shaped filling member 41 Foot 42 Connection 5 Cap-shaped filling member 6. Fillers

Claims

1. An installation surface having two or more protrusions, the protrusions being arranged so as to be parallel to each other; a photovoltaic sheet disposed across the convex portions; a fixing member that fixes the photovoltaic sheet to the protrusion; a filler member disposed in a space overlapping with the fixing member when viewed from above the photovoltaic sheet, at at least one end of the photovoltaic sheet that crosses the convex portion; A solar power generation sheet installation structure comprising:

2. 2. The photovoltaic sheet installation structure according to claim 1, wherein the filling member is a clip-shaped filling member.

3. 2. The photovoltaic sheet installation structure according to claim 1, wherein the filling member is a cap-shaped filling member.

4. 2. The photovoltaic sheet installation structure according to claim 1, wherein the filling member is a filler.

5. 3. The photovoltaic sheet installation structure according to claim 2, wherein the filler member has a modulus of longitudinal elasticity of 1000 MPa or more.

6. 5. The photovoltaic sheet installation structure according to claim 4, wherein the filler has a viscosity at 40°C before hardening of 1000 Pa·s or more and 2500 Pa·s or less.

7. 3. The solar panel installation structure according to claim 1, wherein the convex portion has a flat portion, and the solar panel is adhered to the flat portion at at least one end of the solar panel that crosses the convex portion, at a portion that overlaps with the fixing member when viewed in a plan view from above the solar panel.

8. 3. The photovoltaic sheet installation structure according to claim 1, wherein the installation surface has a slope, and the slope direction is parallel to the extension direction of the convex portion.

9. The solar panel installation structure according to claim 8, characterized in that a plurality of solar panels are arranged on the installation surface having the slope, and the filling member is arranged at least at the end that crosses between the convex portions and is located furthest down the slope.

10. The solar power generation sheet installation structure according to claim 9, characterized in that a plurality of the solar power generation sheets are arranged on the installation surface having the slope, and the filling member is arranged at least at the end that is located furthest up the slope among the ends that cross between the convex portions.

Citation Information

Patent Citations

  • Solar cell sheet installation structure, solar cell sheet construction method, and solar cell sheet for textured exterior material

    WO2023182435A1