Module holding member and associated photovoltaic power generation device

Abstract

To reliably hold upright photovoltaic (PV) modules (2), a sufficiently rigid module holder (6) is proposed that can stabilize one or more outer edges of the PV modules (2) against wind loads while simultaneously minimizing the effects of shadowing on the PV modules (2) caused by the associated module holder (6). For this purpose, the module holder (6) is formed with a convex shape, allowing for large maximum non-shadowing angles of incidence (23, 24) on the front and rear sides, while simultaneously achieving the smallest possible lateral extension of the module holder (6) in directions transverse to the active surface (9) of the PV module (2), i.e., on the front and rear sides. This allows for a high-power PV device (1) to be obtained based on a support structure (3) that holds large-area bifacial PV modules (2) upright and substantially shadow-free using the module holder (6) formed according to the present invention (see FIG. 3).

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] The present invention relates to a module holder and an associated bifacial photovoltaic (PV) module, which can be assembled together as a set. The photovoltaic module has an active surface that can receive sunlight from the front and rear of the photovoltaic module in order to convert the sunlight into electrical current. The module holder provides a receiving area into which the outer edge of the photovoltaic module is inserted in an insertion direction and thus held in place. The receiving area is defined on the front side by front legs of the module holder and / or on the rear side by rear legs of the module holder, relative to the plane of the active surface of the photovoltaic module.

[0002] Such module holders are known; however, known module holders have heretofore been used primarily for monofacial PV modules that are installed to receive sunlight from substantially only one side.

[0003] The present invention also relates to a photovoltaic power plant comprising a plurality of bifacial PV modules arranged upright (i.e., vertically oriented) on a support structure. The support structure comprises a plurality of support columns mounted, in particular fixed, on or in the ground, with beams attached to the support columns connecting each pair of adjacent support columns to one another (directly or via adapter elements). The beams thus extend substantially horizontally, while the support columns extend vertically. In this case, module holders are provided for securely holding the PV modules. The module holders can be attached to the beams and / or columns of the support structure of the PV plant. In other words, the module holders can be used to mount the associated bifacial PV modules to the support structure, in particular to at least one beam and / or at least one column of the support structure.

[0004] Such PV systems are already in use for photovoltaic power generation. In such systems, the module plane, i.e., the plane on which the active surface of the PV module is located, is often oriented in a north-south direction. This has the advantage that in the early morning, the PV module can receive sunlight on its front side, which is incident flatly from the east. In contrast, in the evening, when sunlight is incident flatly from the west, a bifacial PV module can receive sunlight on its rear side. This allows the current curve of the solar current generated by the PV system to have a maximum value just before and just after noon. The higher the sun is above the horizon, the steeper the angle of incidence (with respect to the Earth's surface) of the solar rays incident on the front or rear surface of each PV module.

[0005] In recent years, there has been a trend towards installing PV modules with increasingly larger areas, for example areas larger than 2 square meters. For such large PV modules, conventional support structures based on supports connected to each other via beams present the problem that the individual PV modules can sometimes strongly deflect under wind loads, so that the beams can no longer hold the PV modules securely. Another ongoing trend is to further improve the efficiency of solar current generation, as generating current via renewable energies is becoming increasingly valuable.

[0006] The object of the present invention is to provide a technical contribution to both of these problems. Therefore, the present invention should provide a support structure that can reliably absorb high wind loads even with very large module sizes, while at the same time enabling high electrical efficiency of the PV device. In this case, it is desirable to provide the above-mentioned (assembly) set that can be assembled into the support structure in order to place the PV module inside the support structure.

[0007] To achieve this object, the present invention provides a set consisting of a module holder and the associated bifacial PV module with the features of claim 1. Therefore, in particular, to achieve this object, the present invention proposes that in a set of the type mentioned at the beginning, the outer points of the front and rear sides of the cross section of the module holder, which extend perpendicular to the plane of the working surface, are set back in the insertion direction relative to the ends of the legs on the module side. In this case, the aforementioned outer points are those outer points of the cross section of the module holder that are involved in the formation of a shadow on the working surface caused by the module holder.

[0008] In this case, the axial offset of these outer points along the insertion direction relative to the respective extremities of the front or rear legs may be preferably at least 1.2 times, preferably at least 1.5 times, or even at least 2.0 times the smallest width of the receiving area. For example, in a module holder according to the invention having a smallest receiving area width (or insertion width) of 5 mm (which therefore corresponds to the largest thickness of the PV module at its edge that can still be inserted into the receiving area), the axial offset of the outer points may be 11 mm, i.e. 11 / 5 = 2.2 times the smallest width of the receiving area.

[0009] In such a configuration, an envelope surrounding the outer contour of the module holder, which is related to the shadowing of the active surface by the module holder, can exhibit a convex shape when viewed in the insertion direction. In other words, the lateral width of the envelope increases monotonically in the insertion direction transverse to the plane of the active surface. The envelope of the module holder therefore exhibits a minimum lateral width on the module side. In other words, the envelope of the module holder extends monotonically—opposite to the insertion direction—toward the PV module, i.e., when viewed from both the front and rear sides of the PV module. The shape of the envelope can be determined, for example, by placing a virtual or real fabric or sheet on the module holder from the insertion direction and stretching it in the insertion direction. The envelope can thus define a contour related to the shadowing of the active surface, which limits the possible angles of incidence of sunlight on the active surface.

[0010] This configuration minimizes the shadowing effect of the module holder on the active surface of the bifacial PV module. In particular, it allows non-shadowing of the active surface up to a maximum non-shadowing angle of incidence of at least 110° in the lateral or vertical direction, i.e., with respect to the front and rear surfaces of the PV module. At the same time, the module holder can be designed with high mechanical strength, which allows it to stabilize unstable PV modules, especially when high wind loads act on the PV module.

[0011] In contrast, many of the module frames currently available on the market, when used to hold bifacial PV modules, result in shadowing of the active surface at the rear of the module, which in turn affects solar current generation and significantly reduces output, especially when the incidence angle on the PV module is flat.

[0012] In order to reduce the influence of shadowing on the active surface when the maximum non-shadowing angle of incidence is exceeded, it is also advantageous if the lateral distances of the outer points relative to the plane of the active surface differ from each other by less than 25%, preferably less than 15%, since this allows a cross-section of the module holder to be obtained in which the lateral distance between the module plane and the module holder (often referred to as the lateral cell plane-frame distance) is minimized. This is advantageous because, when the maximum non-shadowing angle of incidence is exceeded, the smaller the lateral distance between the module plane and the module holder is selected, the smaller the shadow length of the active surface (measured in the plane of the active surface) will be (depending on the angle of incidence of the sun's rays). This means that the influence of shadowing on the set is significantly reduced.

[0013] With such a configuration, it can be achieved in particular that the maximum non-shadowing angle of incidence (at which the sun's rays can reach the active surface from the front or rear surface) is at least 120°, preferably even at least 135°, measured relative to the active surface.

[0014] The module holder according to the present invention may be configured so that, transversely to the insertion direction and transversely to the surface normal of the application surface (i.e., along the outer edge of the PV module), it is longer, for example, by more than three times, than the depth of the module holder in the insertion direction. This allows the receiving section to have the shape of an elongated slit. In this case, the receiving section itself may be configured with a depth in the insertion direction that is at least 1.5 times, or even at least 2.0 times, greater than its minimum width in the direction normal to the application surface. This ensures a secure grip on the outer edge of the PV module.

[0015] It should also be mentioned here that the module holder according to the invention may be formed from two parts. In this case, the front part of the module holder can form the front legs of the accommodation part, and the rear part of the module holder can form the rear legs. These two parts may overlap each other along the outer edge of the PV module (in which case the PV module is held on both sides at least in the overlapping area), but may also be spaced apart (in which case the outer edge of the PV module is held partly on the front side and partly on the rear side by the module holder). However, it is preferred if each module holder is formed in one piece and forms both the front and the rear legs of the accommodation part.

[0016] Furthermore, the module holder according to the invention, i.e. when the module holder is designed to directly connect two adjacent PV modules to each other, can also form two oppositely positioned receptacles, each of which receives one PV module.

[0017] In this case, the ratio between the maximum width of the module holder in the insertion direction and the maximum insertion depth of the receiving part can be, for example, 1.20 to 2.80. The distance of the outer edge of the PV module to the abutment on the inside of the receiving part formed by the module holder can in this case be, for example, 1 to 2 mm.

[0018] The module retaining member can also be used to partially or completely stabilize the long or short side of the PV module. Thus, depending on the configuration, the length of the receiving portion transverse to the insertion direction may extend the entire length of the long or short side of the PV module. In this case, the module retaining member thus grips the entire long or short side of the PV module.

[0019] The PV module held by the module holder may in particular be formed as a frameless laminate, in particular as a glass laminate, in which case the working surface may be integrated into the laminate, in which case the working surface may simply be covered, for example on one side, with a film.

[0020] Furthermore, the active surface may in particular be arranged offset relative to the central plane of the PV module, so that different maximum non-shadowing angles of incidence can be obtained, at which sunlight can still reach the outer edges of the active surface when the PV module is inserted into the receptacle of the module holder, even if the module holder is designed symmetrically and the PV module is arranged centrally in the receptacle of the module holder.

[0021] Furthermore, a PV module can have two or more active surfaces. That is, the characteristic "double-sided" can be understood in this case to mean, in particular, that the PV module has at least one active surface (i.e., for example, two or even three active surfaces) that can each convert sunlight into current / voltage. If a PV module has multiple active surfaces, these active surfaces can differ in their respective spectral characteristics, so that in particular each surface converts a different light spectrum into electrical energy. In this case, the active surfaces can be stacked on top of each other, that is, they are spaced apart from each other in a direction perpendicular to the plane of the active surfaces.

[0022] However, in the approach according to the invention, it may be preferable that the working surface of the PV module is approximately centrally arranged with respect to the outer dimensions of the module holding member. For example, it is preferable that the lateral distance between the plane of the working surface and the central plane of the module holding member is at most 10% of the total lateral extension of the module holding member. In particular, the plane of the working surface and the central plane of the module holding member may therefore coincide.

[0023] Alternatively, however, or in addition to the above-mentioned features, the set of the initially mentioned type can also be characterized in that the outer contour (i.e., in particular the above-mentioned outer contour, however, or the above-mentioned envelope) of the module holder is located inside a shadow angle formed in a cross-sectional plane of the module holder, which cross-sectional plane extends perpendicular to the plane of the active surface and starts from the outer edge of the active surface. Furthermore, it is specified that the angle bisector of the shadow angle forms an inclination angle with the plane of the active surface of an absolute value of at most 15°, preferably at most 10°. The shadow angle in this case determines the shadow cast on the active surface by the module holder.

[0024] If the acting surface is, for example, in the xz-plane (where the x-direction may correspond to the longitudinal direction of the beam of the associated support structure to which the module holding element is to be assembled, and the z-direction to the longitudinal direction of the support column), the above-mentioned cross-section may be in the xy-plane if the module holding element grips the vertically extending short side of the PV module; or, for example, in the yz-plane if the module holding element grips the horizontally extending long side of the PV module.

[0025] The limitation of the tilt angle ensures that an even distribution of the maximum non-shadowing incidence angle is achieved between the front and rear faces of the PV module, which allows a highly efficient solar current generation to be achieved by the bifacial PV module, regardless of the side from which the sunlight is incident. The requirement for a small tilt angle is therefore synonymous with the requirement that the active face of the PV module be as close as possible to the central plane of the module holder (which may in particular be a plane of symmetry).

[0026] Another parameter to consider in the design of the assembly is the offset between the outer edge of the active surface and the module-side edge of the module holder when the PV module is inserted into the module holder. Essentially, a trade-off exists here: the larger the offset, the smaller the shadow angle, which at first seems desirable because it reduces the effects of shadowing. However, such a large offset leads to a loss of active surface and therefore less current generation for a given module size and insertion depth into the module holder. The maximum (glass) size of a PV module is usually limited by manufacturing technology. Currently, typical values ​​for the cell-edge spacing, i.e., the distance between the outer edge of the active surface and the outer edge of the PV module, are 18–20 mm. However, in the future, even smaller cell-edge spacings of 12–14 mm may be possible, essentially providing a larger active surface for the same module size. However, with such a small cell-edge spacing, the aforementioned offset becomes increasingly smaller, which leads to increased shadowing.

[0027] In such cases, the inventive design of the module holder becomes even more important, since it allows for the avoidance of excessive shadowing. Therefore, the invention suggests, inter alia, selecting the insertion depth of the receiving part (taking into account a minimum distance of 1-2 mm between the outer edge of the PV module and the abutment formed by the module holder in the receiving part) so that the aforementioned offset between the outer edge of the active surface and the module-side end of the module holder does not limit the desired maximum non-shadowing angle of incidence (i.e., still allows the maximum non-shadowing angle of incidence on the front and rear sides, respectively). This will be explained in more detail below. In this case, the offset can preferably be selected only so that it is no more than 50%, preferably no more than 20%, greater than the minimum offset that must be maintained (purely geometrically, without taking into account errors in inserting the PV module into the module holder) to ensure the desired maximum non-shadowing angle of incidence. This is because a compact design of the set can be achieved in this case, optimizing the available active surface per length / height of the associated PV device.

[0028] The shadowing angles mentioned above can ideally be symmetrically disposed relative to the central plane of the PV module (whereby the central plane divides the shadowing angle as an angle bisector). However, depending on the specific configuration of the module support material and / or the lateral position of the active surface, the shadowing angles can also be asymmetrically disposed relative to the central plane of the module; therefore, in this case, the tilt angles mentioned above are greater than 0° in absolute value (the tilt can be towards the front or rear surface). This can be the case in particular if the maximum non-shadowing angles of incidence of the front and rear surfaces of the PV module relative to the active surface are different in magnitude.

[0029] In preferred configurations, the shadowing angle is up to 100° or even up to 90°, since this allows for a particularly large maximum non-shadowing angle of incidence: in such a configuration, 360°-100°=260°=2×130° (270°=2×135° in preferred configurations with a maximum shadowing angle of 90°) remains for the maximum non-shadowing angles of incidence on the front and rear sides, at which sunlight can still reach the active surface when the PV module is inserted into the receptacle of the module holder.

[0030] An excessively small shadow angle can result in a module holder that is too weak, which is particularly important when the module holder is to stabilize an unstable long side of a PV module. Therefore, in particular, the shadow angle can be specified to be at least 50°, preferably at least 60°. The necessity for such a minimum value for the shadow angle results in the module holder having a sufficient area moment of inertia in the cross section, thereby ensuring a corresponding strength of the module holder.

[0031] In addition to the above-mentioned features, but also as an alternative, the set of the type mentioned at the beginning can also be characterized in that, in order to solve the problem, the outer contour of the module holder (i.e., in particular the above-mentioned outer contour of the module holder) is configured in such a way that the maximum non-shadowing angle of incidence at which incident sunlight can reach the outer edge of the active surface from the front and the maximum non-shadowing angle of incidence at which incident sunlight can reach the outer edge of the active surface from the rear, respectively, is at least 110°, preferably at least 120°, particularly preferably at least 135°, measured in relation to the active surface (in particular when the associated PV module is configured in this way and arranged in the receptacle).

[0032] The selection of a suitable maximum non-shadowing angle of incidence in this case depends largely on the geographical location of the PV module and its orientation relative to the sun.

[0033] If the angle of incidence is measured not with respect to the plane of the active surface but with respect to the surface normal of the active surface, in a transverse plane lying perpendicular to the plane of the active surface, then correspondingly a maximum non-shadowing angle of incidence of at least 20° (=110°-90°), preferably at least 30° (=120°-90°), particularly preferably at least 45° (=135°-90°) is obtained. It should be understood that depending on the height of the sun, i.e. at the time of day when the maximum non-shadowing angle of incidence may be exceeded, shadowing will occur at the edge of the active surface, and this shadowing will increase non-linearly with increasing angle of incidence, which may result in a measurable power loss of the PV module.

[0034] As already explained, it is further advantageous if the outer edge of the active surface is spaced from the module-side end of the module holder so that the maximum non-shadowing angle of incidence on the front and rear sides defined by the module holder does not cause shadowing on the active surface, so that in this case this maximum angle of incidence can actually reach the entire active surface of the PV module.

[0035] According to the invention, the problem is also solved by further advantageous configurations according to the dependent claims.

[0036] For example, it may be specified that the legs of the module holder form respective outer contours that lie within a virtual or real inclination extending toward the module-side inlet opening of the receptacle, whereby the respective inclinations form an angle of at least 110°, preferably at least 120°, particularly preferably at least 135°, with the working surface. In this case, the respective outer contour of one of the legs may deviate inward from this inclination toward the receptacle in a predetermined location.

[0037] For example, an actual slope may be formed on the module side (i.e., on the inner surface of the module holder) on the front side and rear side (with respect to the PV module inserted in the receptacle). This slope allows the described large maximum non-shadowing angle of incidence on the active surface, thus producing the technical effect that shadowing on the active surface by the module holder itself is largely avoided. In the installed state, each slope therefore allows, for example, a steep incidence of sunlight from above (for example, when the module holder grips the upper long side of the PV module extending horizontally, so the slope points downward) or a flat incidence of sunlight from the side (for example, when the module holder grips the short side of the PV module extending vertically, so the slope points in the direction of the long side of the PV module, when the PV module is oriented sideways (= the long side of the PV module is oriented horizontally).

[0038] The module holder according to the invention may be configured with legs that are symmetrically formed, in particular with respect to a plane of symmetry of the module holder that extends parallel to the plane of the working surface, i.e., in particular axially symmetrically, which can be advantageous since the module holder can thereby be used in different orientations for gripping and protecting the outer module edges (there is no distinction between the front and rear faces of the module holder).

[0039] However, the module holder according to the present invention may also be configured asymmetrically with respect to the plane of the active surface. This configuration is particularly advantageous when the internal active surface of the PV module is offset with respect to the central plane of the PV module, since a symmetrical configuration of the module holder would result in asymmetric maximum non-shadowing angles of incidence with respect to the front and rear surfaces of the PV module. That is, an asymmetric configuration of the module holder (e.g., by forming different inclinations on the front and rear surfaces and / or by different lateral extensions of the front or rear legs) can be used to ensure that sunlight can reach the active surface from both the front and rear surfaces with the same maximum angle of incidence, e.g., at least 110° in each case. However, an asymmetric configuration of the module holder is also advantageous when the maximum possible non-shadowing angle of incidence must be designed asymmetrically due to poor bifaciality of the PV module (the output of the rear surface of the active surface is significantly different from the output of the front surface).

[0040] The legs of the module holder can each have a transverse extension, measured from the receiving part in a direction normal to the working surface, of at least 25%, preferably at least 50%, and particularly preferably at least 75% of the minimum width of the receiving part, transverse to the central plane of the PV module. Depending on the design, the width of the receiving part can be increased in the insertion direction. This allows for sufficient mechanical strength while minimizing shadow formation on the front and rear faces of the PV module.

[0041] The central plane of the PV module may optionally be offset laterally relative to the central plane of the receiving part or relative to the central plane or symmetry plane of the module holding member; this depends on the structure of the PV module used.

[0042] If the PV module has, for example, a format (long side / short side) of approximately 2:1 or even greater than 2:1, it is recommended to stabilize the longer side of the PV module with a module holder according to the invention, the legs of which each have a lateral extension greater than 0.75 times the smallest width of the receiving part (which may correspond to at least the thickness of the PV module). In this case, a module holder configured according to the invention can also be used to stabilize the short side; however, since in this case fewer forces act on the short side and the module holder can therefore be configured with a slightly lower stability there, the lateral extension of the legs can possibly be shorter.

[0043] The tips of the front and rear legs may be spaced from the outer edge of the working surface at equal or different distances, i.e., in a cross section (xy or yz plane) extending perpendicular to the plane of the working surface. For optimal area utilization, at least one of the tips of the front or rear legs may reach the working surface. However, it is desirable to avoid any overlap of the module holder with the working surface in order to avoid power losses due to shadow formation.

[0044] The module holder according to the invention may have a total extension length transverse to the central plane of the photovoltaic module that is at most 5 times, preferably at most 4.5 times, the minimum width of the receiving area. This is particularly true when the thickness of the PV module is greater than 5 mm. On the other hand, if the thickness of the PV module is less than 4 mm, the total extension length can be higher, but in this case it should preferably be at most 8 times the minimum width of the receiving area. This configuration results in a relatively narrow transverse extent of the module holder and thus reduced shadow formation.

[0045] In a particularly preferred embodiment, the legs of the module holder are formed as parts of a hollow profile. In this case, the entire module holder can preferably be formed by a hollow profile. In this case, the hollow profile can preferably be formed at least partially as an elongated profile with a constant cross section.

[0046] It is further preferred if the legs are mechanically connected to one another via a closed (e.g., ring-shaped) cavity wall of the hollow profile. This or another closed cavity wall of the hollow profile can form a cavity (designated 32c in the drawings). This configuration increases the mechanical strength of the module holder without adversely affecting shadowing, since the aforementioned cavity, defined by the closed cavity wall of the hollow profile, can be preferably specified to be arranged in the module plane. In other words, the plane in which the active surface of the PV module held by the hollow profile / module holder lies extends through the aforementioned cavity. Preferably, the geometric center of gravity of the cavity has a lateral distance perpendicular to the module plane that is less than 25% of the lateral extension of the cavity perpendicular to the module plane (respectively with respect to a cross-section of the cavity extending perpendicular to the module plane—see, for example, FIG. 3). Very particularly preferably, this center of gravity can even lie in the plane of the module.

[0047] The above-described arrangement of the cavities in the module plane would at first glance be undesirable in terms of the effective module area, since it would increase the overall size of the module while the net area of ​​the active surface would remain the same. However, the present invention has recognized that in this case there is a certain compromise between mechanical stability on the one hand and shadowing of the active surface on the other hand. The arrangement according to the present invention therefore allows, on the one hand, low shadowing and, on the other hand, sufficient stability of the module holding element, especially in the construction of sets in the form of PV modules with frames.

[0048] Therefore, in a particularly preferred configuration, it may be specified that the closed cavity wall forms a cavity that follows the accommodating section in the insertion direction (i.e. is located behind the accommodating section, preferably in the module plane).

[0049] Additionally or alternatively (i.e., for example, if the cavity walls are not completely closed or if the aforementioned cavities cannot or should not be arranged in the plane of the module), the invention provides that in order to increase the mechanical stability of the module holder, the hollow profile has a wall thickness increase in the region of the receiving section that is located in the plane of the module, which effectively prevents potentially mechanically weak bending points in this region, particularly if triangular cavities are formed in the hollow profile to define the legs.

[0050] The module holder may further have a maximum cross-sectional width at its module-side end, transverse to the insertion direction, that corresponds to the sum of the minimum width of the receiving section and twice the material thickness of the hollow profile. Therefore, in this case, only the material thickness of the hollow profile continues into the receiving section at the front and rear ends of the module-side end of the module holder. This configuration provides excellent mechanical strength, particularly along the long and short sides of the module to be stabilized by the module holder, while simultaneously reducing the material used and, therefore, costs. At the same time, the sharply extending cross-section at the module-side end of the module holder minimizes shadowing.

[0051] To increase the strength of the module holding element, a particularly preferred configuration specifies that the front and rear legs defining the receiving section are each formed by a closed cavity wall (which may preferably have a triangular cross section) of a hollow molding material. Thus, each of the two legs can define a cavity located on the left and right of the receiving section in the insertion direction. Therefore, in terms of operation, these two cavities are located on the front and rear sides of the receiving section or of the PV module inserted therein.

[0052] The module holder according to the invention may be configured, for example, as a (particularly individual) module holder element. The module holder can thus grip or support at least one side of only one partial section of the annular outer edge of the associated PV module. It is then expedient if the set includes several such module holder elements or module holders, each gripping or supporting at least one side of a partial section of the outer edge of the PV module, i.e., in particular each long or short side.

[0053] In an alternative configuration, the set includes at least four module holders, which together form a preferably rectangular module frame surrounding the PV module. The module frame may thus be closed. To this end, the module holders may be joined at multiple joints to form the module frame. Joining multiple module holders to form the module frame can be achieved using conventional corner connectors. Such corner connectors can be inserted into the respective moldings of two module holders to connect them to each other.

[0054] It is also possible to configure a module frame in which the distances between the tips of the legs of each module support element (which stabilizes the PV module on the short or long side) and the outer edge of the active surface are selected to be different sizes on the front and / or rear sides. However, if the cross section of the module frame is configured approximately symmetrically, the distances may be the same. However, in a preferred configuration, the distance between the tips of the upper module support elements located on the upper side of the PV module, relative to the active surface of the PV module, is selected to be larger than the distance between the tips of the lower module support elements located on the lower side of the PV module. This configuration can optimize area utilization, thereby allowing a larger overall active surface to be arranged for a certain length or height of the support structure of the PV device in which multiple sets are installed.

[0055] Such module frames may have a cross-sectional shape in the form of beveled passepartouts, similar to those of picture frames, on the front and rear sides of the module frame relative to a central plane extending parallel to the active surface of the PV module, whereby these bevels allow the desired large angles of incidence.

[0056] It is important to note that, according to the present invention, not all four module holders need to be formed with a convex shape. For example, since in the final assembly position, sunlight always strikes the vertically oriented active surface of the PV module from above, but never from below, the lower module holders can be omitted from a relatively large distance from the active surface (so that the lower module holders can reach the active surface). For the same reason, the convex shape of the lower module holders can be omitted from the formation of a slope and / or a convex shape. However, for reasons of more efficient manufacturing, it is preferred that at least the left and right module holders extending in the vertical direction of the module frame have the same cross-sectional shape, and that the upper and lower module holders of the module frame are also formed to have the same cross-sectional shape.

[0057] A configuration in which all four module retaining members of the module frame have the same cross-sectional shape is particularly preferred, as this facilitates joining at the joints.

[0058] The module frame may be specified to have a first cross section along the long side of the photovoltaic module and a second cross section along the short side of the PV module. In this case, the second cross section stabilizing the short side of the PV module may provide a higher mechanical rigidity and / or be larger, in particular wider, than the first cross section stabilizing the long side of the PV module. This allows for a minimum use of material while still providing sufficient stabilization of the PV module.

[0059] Various configurations are possible for holding the edges of the PV module in the receiving part. The edges can be clamped and / or glued, for example, using adhesive tape. In a preferred configuration, the edges of the PV module are sealed and glued in the receiving part with a sealant. Liquid silicone adhesive is particularly suitable as the sealant or sealing adhesive material. The silicone adhesive can harden in the receiving part and thus fill any remaining gaps between the PV module and the module holder. When adhesive tape is used, it is conceivable to form the receiving part in a V-shape, so that the width of the receiving part decreases in the insertion direction.

[0060] Generally, it is advantageous for shadow formation if the tips of the front and / or rear legs form or define the module-side ends of the module holding elements. This feature distinguishes the configuration according to the invention from known module frames in which stabilizing legs are formed that are arranged transversely to the receiving part and that protrude further beyond the receiving part on the module side.

[0061] In order to achieve the above-mentioned object, the present invention further specifies the features of the claims directed to a PV device. Therefore, in particular, in order to achieve the object, the present invention proposes that in a PV device of the type mentioned at the beginning, the PV modules are each attached to the support structure by at least one respective module holder, preferably by at least two module holders. Furthermore, it is specified that each bifacial PV module and the associated at least one module holder form a respective set as described above or a respective set according to one of the claims directed to a set according to the present invention.

[0062] In this case, the two columns and two beams of the support structure can each define a substantially rectangular mounting area in which at least one of the PV modules is arranged. The columns, and also the beams, can be formed in the form of elongated sections, preferably made of metal. These elongated sections can be produced very simply by cold forming, i.e., as so-called cold-formed sections. In contrast, the module holder can be produced, in particular, by aluminum extrusion.

[0063] The support structure's columns can be arranged in a single row, for example, to create a solar panel fence. To create a large-area PV installation, the columns can also be arranged in rows spaced apart from one another. In this case, the columns in one row can form substantially a single plane.

[0064] A space can be left between the ground and the lowest beam of the support structure, allowing for agricultural use of this space between these posts. Similarly, the spaces formed between the rows of posts mentioned above can also be used agriculturally.

[0065] A typical PV module typically has a rectangular basic shape, e.g., with an aspect ratio of about 2:1, such a PV module can be assembled to a support structure in both landscape and portrait orientations in a PV device according to the invention.

[0066] According to a possible configuration, the module holding elements may be inserted, preferably non-rotatably, into respective receiving sections formed from beams or columns.

[0067] In particular, it is proposed to mount a set of a module holder and associated bifacial PV module as described above or as claimed herein on a support structure, thereby forming a high-power and extremely (wind-) stable PV device. In this case, the PV device can be constructed by first assembling the support structure, i.e., the masts and associated beams, thereby forming a substantially rectangular mounting area between the masts. One or more sets according to the invention can then be mounted on the mounting area, i.e., on the support structure, thereby completing the PV device.

[0068] Each set formed by a PV module and at least one associated module holder may be attached to one of the supports, which attachment can preferably be realized by separate attachment elements, for example, it may have one module holder. Additionally, or alternatively, it may be specified that each set has a module holder attached to the underside of one of the beams, preferably by separate attachment elements, i.e., these module holders attached to the supports and / or beams are in this case configured with the features according to the invention (as described above).

[0069] The mechanical connection of each PV module to the beams and / or columns of the support structure can therefore be realized, in particular, exclusively via (separate) module holders. However, in this case, not all of these module holders need to be formed with a convex shape according to the invention; this applies in particular to the module holders that grip the horizontally extending lower edge of the PV module, since if sunlight enters from above, no shadowing of the active surface occurs there. Therefore, this lower module holder does not necessarily need to have an inclination, for example.

[0070] Thus, a PV device according to the present invention can include a support structure comprising beams having a lower surface on which one of the aforementioned sets of module holders is suspended, preferably by separate mounting elements. Furthermore, the support structure can have beams having an upper surface on which one of the aforementioned sets of module holders is attached, preferably by separate mounting elements. In both cases, the cross section of each beam, extending transversely to the longitudinal direction of the beams, can be selected so that the maximum non-shadowing incidence angle at which the incident solar rays can reach the active surface of the PV module from the front or rear is determined by the outer contour of the module holder (e.g., not by the outer contour of the beam used). In other words, in such a configuration, the respective incidence angles are limited, at most, by the beams to the extent already limited by the module holders. To enable this, the beams can have or form respective inclinations on their lower surface, front side, and rear side with respect to the photovoltaic modules.

[0071] In the final installation position, the cross section of the beam can therefore lie within a shadowing angle of at most 100°, preferably at most 90°, formed in the cross-sectional plane and starting from the outer edge of the active surface of the PV module of the set, thereby effectively preventing the beam from casting a shadow on the active surface of the PV module located below the beam.

[0072] A preferred configuration of the PV device specifies that the beam having a lower surface (or upper surface) on which one of the sets is assembled is formed by an elongated molding that is half open upwards (or downwards), and such a half open elongated molding may preferably be formed in the form of a C-shaped molding.

[0073] It may further be specified that each of the above-mentioned mounting elements is inserted into a preferably slit-shaped through-insertion opening provided on the underside (or upper side) of the beam, thereby allowing a module holder of one of the sets, arranged on the underside (or upper side) of the beam, to be attached to the beam.

[0074] In another configuration, it is specified that the above-mentioned mounting element forms tongues on the front and rear sides, respectively, to which the module holding members of the corresponding set are attached, preferably clamped or screwed.

[0075] The support structure can also have beams formed, for example, by elongated profiles half-opened downwards (this can of course simply be the same profile used in a different orientation), on the upper side of which the module holders can then be assembled in the same manner.

[0076] The mounting element may further comprise abutment legs (relative to the plane of the module) on the front and rear sides, which are supported internally on the beam in the assembled position, thereby transmitting the holding force to the beam. For example, such abutment legs may be configured as upwardly bent tongues that abut on the inner surface of the aforementioned half-open elongated profile. The mounting element itself may be screwed to the beam, with the screw fastenings being formed in the region of the abutment legs. This allows the contact surface of each abutment leg to be pressed against the inner surface of the beam by the screw fastening.

[0077] The present invention will now be described in detail with reference to examples, but the invention is not limited to these examples. Further configurations of the invention can be obtained from the following description of preferred embodiments in combination with the detailed description in general, the claims, and the drawings, which are to be understood as being schematic and not necessarily to scale, but are only approximately to scale.

[0078] In the following description of various embodiments of the present invention, elements that are identical in function are provided with the same reference numerals, even if they differ in construction and configuration. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0079] [Figure 1] 1 shows a known module retention member in the form of a module frame with rear stabilizing legs; FIG. [Figure 2] 2 shows another known module support in the form of a module frame which is held somewhat thinner than that of FIG. 1; FIG. [Figure 3] 1 is a cross-sectional view of a first module holder formed in accordance with the present invention with an associated PV module inserted therein; FIG. [Figure 4] 3 is a cross-sectional view of a second module holder formed in accordance with the invention with an associated PV module inserted therein; FIG. [Figure 5] FIG. 5 shows the same module retention member as in FIG. 4, but with a different type of PV module. [Figure 6] 6 is a diagram showing details of a cross section of a hollow molded material forming the module holding member of FIGS. 4 and 5. FIG. [Figure 7] FIG. 1 shows a side view (in the y direction) of a first PV device according to the invention. [Figure 8] FIG. 1 shows a side view (in the y direction) of a second PV device according to the invention. [Figure 9] FIG. 10 shows a side view (in the y direction) of a third PV device according to the invention. [Figure 10] FIG. 1 is a cross-sectional view of a (schematically shown) beam of a PV device with a module retaining member assembled to its underside. [Figure 11] 1 shows a set constructed according to the invention consisting of a module holder and an associated PV module, in which the working surface 9 defining the module plane is located in the central plane of the PV module. [Figure 12]10A and 10B illustrate the effect of an offset between the module-side end of a module holding element according to the present invention and the working surface of a PV module inserted into said module holding element. [Figure 13] 1 shows a set according to the invention, in which the working faces of the PV modules are offset towards the rear face with respect to the plane of symmetry of the associated module holding element. [Figure 14] 1 shows a set according to the invention, in which the working faces of the PV modules are offset towards the front with respect to the central plane of the associated asymmetrically formed module holder. [Figure 15] 1 shows a set according to the invention, in which the active surface of the PV module is arranged in the center plane of the PV module and the module holding member is formed asymmetrically. [Figure 16] 1 is a cross-sectional view of a (schematically shown) beam of a PV device, on the underside of which a set according to the invention is assembled. [Figure 17] 1 shows a top view of the beam of a PV device according to the invention. [Figure 18] 18 shows an oblique side view of the beam of FIG. 17, with the PV modules mounted underneath with the associated module frames.

[0080] 1 shows a module holder 6 known from the prior art in the form of a module frame with rear stabilizing legs 67. The module holder 6 provides a receiving area 13 into which the outer edge 14 of the associated photovoltaic module 2 in the form of a glass laminate is inserted in an insertion direction 15 and thereby held in place. The PV module 2 has an active surface 9 on its rear side, which can receive sunlight from both a front surface 12 and a rear surface 11 of the PV module 2 in order to convert the sunlight into electrical current.

[0081] 1 , the receiving space 13 is defined on the front side by the front legs 17 of the module holder 6 and on the rear side by the rear legs 16 of the module holder 6. On the front side, the sunlight ray 21 incident on the PV module 2 can indeed reach the outer edge 30 of the active surface 9 at a relatively large maximum non-shadowing angle of incidence 24. However, on the rear side, the above-mentioned stabilizing legs 67 protrude so far beyond the front legs 17 and the rear legs 16 that the outermost points 58 a of the stabilizing legs 67, which are involved in shadowing the rear side of the active surface 9, protrude beyond the receiving space 13 in the direction opposite to the insertion direction 15. This is undesirable in that the sunlight ray 20 incident on the rear surface 11 of the PV module 2 can only reach the outer edge 30 of the active surface 9 at a relatively small angle of incidence 23.

[0082] Figure 2 shows another example of a known module holder 6 with a PV module 2 inserted therein. In comparison with the example of Figure 1, in this case the working surface 9 is located inside the PV module 2. Furthermore, the above-mentioned stabilizing legs 67 are made significantly shorter compared to the configuration shown in Figure 1, which certainly results in a lower stability of the module holder 6, but the shadow angle 29 (relative to the outer edge 30 of the working surface 9) defined by the module holder 6 is already significantly reduced (see Figure 1 in this regard).

[0083] However, the configuration of the module holder 6 shown in FIG. 2 is also not optimal for use with a bifacial PV module 2, because the module holder 6 has a large lateral distance 60a on its rear side relative to the plane 10 of the active surface 9 of the PV module 2, often referred to as the module plane. Therefore, if the sun's rays 20 are incident on the PV module 2 on its rear side at an angle exceeding the maximum non-shadowing angle of incidence 23, as shown in FIG. 2, the module holder 6, or more precisely the stabilizing legs 67 on its rear side, in particular the outer points 58a shown, will cast a shadow on the active surface 9. Due to the relatively large lateral distance 60a, a significant shadowing length 62 (which linearly depends on 60a) will already occur when the maximum non-shadowing angle of incidence 23 is slightly exceeded. In other words, depending on the circumstances, at such a solar incidence, the entire edge area of ​​the active surface 9, corresponding to the shadowing length 62, will no longer receive sunlight and therefore can no longer contribute to power generation.

[0084] 3 shows a first example of a set according to the invention, consisting of a module holder 6 and the associated bifacial PV module 2. Here again, the module holder 6 forms a receiving space 13, which is bounded on the front side by the front legs 17 and on the rear side by the rear legs 16. However, at a glance, it can be seen that the module-side extremities 35 of the legs 16, 17 form the module-side end 52 of the module holder 6. Therefore, the respective outer points 58a, 58b (in a cross section of the module holder 6 extending perpendicularly to the plane 10 of the working surface 9) that are involved in the shadowing of the module holder 6 on the front side or rear side of the working surface 9 are clearly set back in the insertion direction 15 with respect to the aforementioned extremities 35 of the legs 16, 17. In this case, the axial offset of these outer points 58a, 58b with respect to the respective extremities 35 is greater than 1.5 times the minimum width of the receiving space 13. In this case, it is important that the outer points 58a, 58b involved in the shadowing are set back so that the working surface 9 remains unshadowed. In this case, however, the profile 8 can also be designed open, for example at the top, i.e. the cavity 32e does not necessarily have to be designed closed in cross section; however, a closed cross section is advantageous for the sake of a higher mechanical stability of the hollow profile 8 / module holding element 6.

[0085] The hollow profile 8 shown in FIG. 3 (as well as in FIG. 4 ) also features a special arrangement of the cavity 32c, which in the illustrated example is defined by a cross-sectionally closed wall of the hollow profile 8. The cavity 32c preferably has its geometric center of gravity, as shown, in the module plane 69, i.e., in the plane in which the active surface 9 of the PV module 2 lies. Furthermore, the cavity 32c extends beyond the front surface 12 of the PV module 2 and beyond the rear surface 11 of the PV module 2. It can also be seen in FIG. 3 that the geometric center of gravity 70 of the cavity 32c lies in the module plane 69. This arrangement and configuration of the cavity 32c makes it possible to increase the mechanical stability of the hollow profile 8 without having to accept losses related to non-shadowing, as is often the case with known support elements in which such a cavity is arranged in front of or behind the module plane. In the example shown, the center of gravity 70 is therefore located in the middle with respect to the lateral extension of the cavity 32c perpendicular to the module plane 69 (see double arrow).

[0086] 3, in order to further increase the mechanical stability of the module holder 6, the hollow profile 8 has an increased wall thickness 71 in the region of the receiving section 13. This increased wall thickness 71 is located in the module plane 69 and is formed in a wall of the hollow profile 8 that connects the legs 16 and 17 or the cavities 32a and 32b. This wall also defines the receiving section 13. This makes it possible to maintain a high mechanical strength of the module holder 6 despite the small shadowing angle.

[0087] FIG. 4 shows another example of a set according to the invention, consisting of a module holder 6 and an associated PV module. The axial offset of the outer points 58a, 58b relative to the tips 35 of the associated legs 16, 17 is clearly visible in this example. Furthermore, in both the examples of FIGS. 3 and 4, each module holder 6 is axially symmetrical with respect to the central plane 27 of the PV module 2, which thus forms the symmetry plane 28 of each module holder 6. Due to this axial symmetry, the lateral distances 60a, 60b between the module plane 10 and the outermost edge of the module holder 6, respectively, can be significantly smaller than the dimension 60a in the example of FIG. 2, as can be seen from FIGS. 3 and 4, respectively, provided that the mechanical strength is equivalent. Accordingly, even in FIG. 4, it can be seen that the shadow length 62 becomes correspondingly smaller when the maximum non-shadowing incidence angles 23, 24 on the front or rear side are exceeded.

[0088] It is worth noting that, compared to the known example of FIG. 1, the configuration according to the invention of FIGS. 3 and 4 further allows for large maximum non-shadowing angles of incidence 23, 24 on the front and rear sides, respectively, of at least 135°.

[0089] Figure 5 illustrates the concept according to the invention again with reference to the same module holder 6 already shown in Figure 4 and whose geometric details are shown in Figure 6. However, Figure 5 shows the case where a PV module 2 is inserted whose active surface 9 is laterally offset with respect to the central plane 27 of the PV module 2. Therefore, despite the PV module 2 being inserted centrally in the receptacle 13 of the module holder 6, and despite the module holder 6 being axially symmetrical with respect to the plane of symmetry 28, the rear face 11 experiences a maximum non-shadowing angle of incidence 23 that is somewhat greater than the corresponding maximum non-shadowing angle of incidence 24 on the front face 12, as shown in Figure 5.

[0090] 5 also shows a shadow angle 29, which starts from the outer edge 30 of the active surface 9 of the PV module 2 and extends in a cross-sectional plane (xy-plane in FIG. 5) of the module holder 6, which itself extends perpendicular to the plane 10 of the active surface 9 (xz-plane in FIG. 5). As can be seen in FIG. 5, the outer contour 22 of the module holder 6 is located inside this shadow angle 29. In this case, the module-side end 52 is also located inside the shadow angle 29. Furthermore, it can be seen that the angle bisector 54 of the shadow angle 29 forms an inclination angle 55 with the plane 10 of the active surface 9, the inclination angle 55 having an absolute value of less than 15°. Due to this configuration of the set consisting of the module holder 6 and the inserted PV module 2, the non-shadow angle area is more or less uniformly divided between the front surface 12 and the rear surface 11 of the PV module 2. Furthermore, since the shadowing angle 29 is less than 90°, in the illustrated case of FIG. 5, the maximum non-shadowing incidence angle 24 on the front side and the maximum non-shadowing incidence angle 23 on the rear side are each guaranteed to be at least 120°.

[0091] In order to be able to achieve such high values ​​for the maximum non-shadowing angles of incidence 23, 24, it is important that the envelope 25 of the module holder 6, shown as a dotted line in FIG. 5, i.e., enclosing the outer contour 22, exhibits a convex shape when viewed in the insertion direction 15. This is because, as can be seen in FIG. 5 and again in more detail in FIG. 6, the outer contour 22 on each of the front and rear sides of the xy cross section of the module holder 6, formed in particular by the legs 16 and 17, remains within the illustrated slopes 63, which extend toward the module-side introduction opening 45 of the receptacle 13. In the example shown in FIG. 6, the slopes 63 each form an angle of more than 145° with respect to the working surface 9. In this case, it is of course not important for the shadow formation if the outer contour 22 deviates inward from the slopes 63 (i.e., toward the plane 10 of the working surface 9) at some points.

[0092] FIG. 5 also shows that the edge 14 of the PV module 2 is sealed and glued in the housing 13 by a sealant 41 .

[0093] 6 further clearly shows that the legs 16, 17 of the module holding element 6 each exhibit a lateral extension 31 transverse to the central plane 27 of the PV module 2 (not shown in FIG. 6), each measured from the receiving area 13, that is greater than 75% of the illustrated minimum width 41 of the receiving area 13. In this case, it is primarily immaterial whether the central plane 27 of the PV module 2 is laterally offset relative to the central plane of the receiving area 13 or, for example, relative to the symmetry plane 28 of the module holding element 6 shown in FIG. 6. The advantage of such large lateral extensions 31 on the front and rear sides is that the module holding element 6 can provide considerable rigidity while at the same time ensuring sufficient non-shadowing.

[0094] 3 to 6, the module holder 6 is formed by a hollow section 8, which is itself an elongated section with a constant cross section. In this case, both in the design shown in FIG. 3 and in the designs shown in FIGS. 4 to 6, a closed cavity wall 33 is provided, which is shown by dashed lines in FIGS. 3 and 6. This closed cavity wall 33 mechanically connects the legs 16, 17 to each other, thereby providing the module holder 6 with excellent stability.

[0095] As can be seen clearly in FIG. 6 , both the front leg 17 and the rear leg 16 are formed by a closed cavity wall 33 of the hollow profile 8. In this case, the cavity wall 33 has a triangular cross section. It can also be seen in FIG. 6 that the module holder 6 has, at its module-side end 52, a cross-sectional width 59 transverse to the insertion direction 15 that corresponds exactly to the minimum width 41 of the receiving space 13 plus twice the material thickness 56 of the hollow profile 8. This configuration is particularly advantageous, since it allows the module-side end 52 to be brought close to the outer edge 30 of the working surface 9 of the PV module 2 with only a slight offset 57 (see FIG. 12 ). This allows for a compact configuration that minimizes the required area per set of working surfaces 9 of the PV module 2.

[0096] FIG. 7 shows a first example of how a photovoltaic power plant 1 can be realized using the set according to the invention, in which a number of bifacially configured PV modules 2 are mounted upright on a support structure 3. The support structure 3 includes a number of vertically extending columns 4 attached to the ground, extending in the z-direction. The columns 4 are fitted with horizontally extending beams 5, each connecting two adjacent columns 4. As can be clearly seen from FIG. 7, this defines a substantially rectangular mounting area in which at least one PV module 2 can be arranged; in the example of FIG. 7, for example, only one PV module 2 is suspended in the mounting area in a "landscape" orientation, so that the long side 38 of the PV module 2 extends horizontally along the beam 5. However, in other configurations, a number of PV modules can also be mounted one above the other and / or next to each other in the mounting area.

[0097] As can be seen in FIG. 7 , the set of module holders 6 is configured in the form of a plurality of module holder elements 43, each surrounding only one subsection 44 of the annular outer edge 14 of the PV module 2. In this case, the module holder elements 43 form a mechanical connection between one of the beams 5 and the PV module 2 or between the PV module 2 and one of the supports 4. The upper and lower module holder elements 43, which hold the PV module 2 at its horizontally extending long side 38, must have great mechanical strength in order to reliably transfer wind loads acting on the surface of the PV module 2 into the respective beams 5. Additionally, a direct mechanical connection of, for example, two PV modules 2 arranged one above the other or next to each other can also be realized via such module holder elements 43; in this case, the corresponding module holder elements 43 each provide a receptacle 13 on both sides, into which the edge 14 of each PV module 2 is inserted.

[0098] 8 shows another PV device 1 according to the present invention, where the set includes at least four module retention members 6a, 6b, 6c, 6d, which together form a rectangular module frame 34 that surrounds the PV module 2. In this case, all four module retention members 6 are joined via corner connectors at a number of joints 42 to form the module frame 34.

[0099] 8, unlike the example of FIG. 7, in the example of FIG. 8, the spacing 36a between the tips 35 of the upper module holding members 6a arranged on the upper side of the PV module 2, each relative to the operating surface 9, is selected to be larger than the spacing 36c between the tips 35 of the lower module holding members 6c arranged on the lower side of the PV module 2. This is because, since sunlight always enters from above, the lower module holding members 6c can be placed very close to the outer edge 30 of the operating surface 9 without worrying about significant shadow formation. This configuration makes it possible to reduce the overall height of the PV device 1, which is advantageous for absorbing wind loads, particularly when multiple PV modules 2 are arranged one on top of the other.

[0100] Figure 9 shows another possible configuration of a set according to the invention; in this case too, a total of four module holding members 6 are provided in the form of individual module holding elements 43, which, unlike the example of Figure 8, are not joined together to form one annular module frame 43.

[0101] 10 shows how, for example, the upper module holder 6 in FIG. 9 (or module holder 6a in FIG. 8), which grips the upper long side 38 of the PV module 2, can be connected to the beam 5 located above it. For this purpose, a separate mounting element 37 is provided, which is inserted into a slit-shaped through-plug opening 49 provided in the underside of the beam 5 shown in FIG. 10 (see also FIG. 17), and by means of which the module holder 6 located below the beam 5 can be attached to the beam 5. In this case, the mounting element 37 shown in FIG. 10 forms respective tongues 50 on both the front side 12 and the rear side 11 (see also FIG. 18), to which the module holder 6 is attached.

[0102] In Fig. 10, the module holder 6 is configured with a slope 63 on each of the front and rear sides, similar to the example shown in Fig. 6, which would in principle allow a shadow angle of less than 90° to be achieved, as shown in Fig. 4, and would therefore be desirable to be able to achieve a maximum non-shadowing angle of incidence of at least 110° on both the front and rear sides. However, for this, a suitable PV module 2 must be selected, and in this case the lateral position of the active surface 9 is particularly important, as is the offset 57 (see Fig. 12) present between the module-side end 52 of the module holder 6 and the outer edge 30 of the active surface 9. 10 )。 In the example shown in FIG. 10 , however, both the lateral offset of the working surface 9 with respect to the central plane 27 of the PV module 2 and the offset 57 between the outer edge 30 of the working surface 9 and the module-side end 52 of the module holding element 6 are unfavorably selected, resulting in a shadow angle of approximately 110° and a strong inclination of the shadow angle 29 with respect to the front surface 12 (consider the angle bisector 54 in FIG. 10 , which has an inclination angle 55 of more than 20° with respect to the plane 10 of the working surface 9). Therefore, even on the front side, only a maximum non-shadowing angle of incidence of 105° to the active surface 9 is available, which causes power losses.

[0103] However, as shown in Figure 16, the situation can be significantly improved by using a PV module 2 with an active surface 9 centrally located in a module holding member 6 with the same structure as above, and the associated beam 5, which results in a shadowing angle of only 65° and a maximum non-shadowing angle of incidence of more than 145° on both the front and rear sides.

[0104] This situation is again shown in detail in Figure 11, which shows that the slopes 63 on the front and rear sides of the module holder 6 are each formed symmetrically with respect to the illustrated symmetry plane 28 of the module holder 6, forming an opening angle 56 of approximately 65°. If a PV module 2 is used whose active surface 9 is arranged in the central plane 27 of the PV module 2, as shown in Figure 11, the PV module 2 can be inserted into the receptacle 13 to such an extent that the shadow angle 29 acting on the outer edge 30 of the active surface 9 exactly corresponds to the opening angle 56, as shown in Figure 11.

[0105] 12 shows that in the left half, the shadowing angle 29 increases significantly if the active surface 9 is brought closer to the module-side end 52 of the module holder 6. This proximity appears to be advantageous in order to be able to design the active surface 9 as large as possible in relation to the overall size of the PV module 2, i.e., to be able to use a relatively small cell-edge spacing 61. However, a disadvantage of a small offset 57 is that in this case the maximum non-shadowing angle may be limited (in this case, errors in inserting the PV module 2 into the module holder 6 must be taken into account).

[0106] The right-hand part of Fig. 12 shows that the shadowing angle 29 caused by the module holder 6 can be smaller than the opening angle 56 formed by the module holder 6, i.e., if the above-mentioned offset 57 is selected accordingly. However, such a large offset leads to a loss of active surface 9 and thus to a lower current generation. Therefore, the above-mentioned offset 57 is preferably at most 20% larger than the minimum offset that must be maintained to ensure the desired maximum non-shadowing angle of incidence on the front face 12 or rear face 11, respectively. For example, in Fig. 11, if only a maximum non-shadowing angle of incidence of 135° is desired on the front and rear faces, respectively, the active surface 9 can be moved slightly closer to the module-side edge 52.

[0107] 13 starts from the example of FIG. 11, but in this case a PV module 2 whose working surface 9 is laterally offset relative to the central plane 27 of the PV module 2 is inserted into the same module holder 6. However, here a relatively large maximum non-shadowing angle of incidence 23, 24 is nevertheless ensured by selecting a relatively large offset 57 at the front surface 12 and the rear surface 11. This results in a slight tilt angle 55 of less than 15°, as well as a relatively small shadowing angle of approximately 55°. Such a configuration can be provided, for example, when a PV module 2 having a relatively large cell-edge spacing 61 (see FIG. 12) is used.

[0108] 14 shows another example of a set constructed according to the invention. In this case, however, a module holder 6 is used that is asymmetrically configured with respect to the illustrated central plane 27 of the PV module 2. As can be seen, however, the lateral distances 60a and 60b between the module plane 10 of the working surface 9 and the respective outer points 58a, 58b of the module holder 6 are barely different. Thus, the fact that the working surface 9 of the PV module 2 is offset toward the front surface 12 is at least partially compensated for by the asymmetric configuration of the module holder 6, so that even with a relatively small offset 57 between the module-side end 52 of the module holder 6 and the outer edge 30 of the working surface 9, a relatively small shadow angle of approximately 65° can be achieved.

[0109] 15 shows, an asymmetrically formed module retaining element 6 can also be used according to the invention with a PV module 2 whose working surface 9 is positioned centrally with respect to the outer edge / surface of the PV module 2. The asymmetry of the module retaining element 6 can be seen, for example, in the different magnitudes of the lateral extension 31 of the two legs 16, 17.

[0110] 3 to 9 and 11 to 16 have in common that the module holder 6 used in each case has setback outer points 58a and 58b, so that the module-side tips 35 of the legs 16, 17 form the module-side ends 52, respectively, and that a maximum non-shadowing angle of incidence of at least 110° is guaranteed on the front and rear sides, respectively, with the inclination of the adjusted shadowing angle 29 in each case being a maximum of 15° in absolute value with respect to the plane 10 of the active surface 9. This allows in all these embodiments to achieve a high efficiency of solar current generation both in the case of front-side and rear-side illumination of the bifacial PV module 2.

[0111] 17 and 18 further show perspective views of the horizontally extending upper beam 5 of the support structure 3 of the PV installation 1 according to the invention, this configuration corresponding to the schematic diagram of FIG. 16. As already mentioned above, FIGS. 17 and 18 show the separate mounting elements 37, which are inserted into the upwardly half-open beam 5 formed by the C-shaped sections, so that the module holders 6 arranged on the underside of the beam 5 can be attached to the beam 5 together with the PV modules 2 held by the module holders. In this case, FIG. 18 shows the front tongues 50 formed by the mounting element 37 for holding the module holders 6. It can also be seen in FIG. 17 that the mounting element 37 forms a stop leg 68 on each of the front and rear sides, which in the assembled position bear against the beam 5 on the inside and are screwed to the beam 5.

[0112] In summary, in order to reliably hold upright photovoltaic (PV) modules 2, a sufficiently rigid associated module holder 6 is proposed that can stabilize one or more outer edges of the PV modules 2 against wind loads while at the same time minimizing the impact of shadowing on the PV modules 2 by the associated module holder 6. For this purpose, it is specified that the module holder 6 be formed with a convex shape, allowing large maximum non-shadowing angles of incidence 23, 24 on the front and rear sides, while simultaneously achieving the smallest possible lateral extension of the module holder 6 in directions transverse to the active surface 9 of the PV module 2, i.e., on the front and rear sides. This makes it possible to obtain a high-power PV device 1 on the basis of a support structure 3 that supports large-area bifacial PV modules 2 upright and substantially shadow-free by means of the module holder 6 formed according to the invention. [Explanation of symbols]

[0113] 1. Solar power generation equipment 2. Photovoltaic modules 3 Support structure 4 pillars 5 Beam 6. Module holding member (for positioning / holding 2) 7 (formed by several 2 or 9) module planes 8 Hollow molded material 9 (2) Action Surface 10 Plane of the working surface (i.e., plane of 9) 11 (2) rear 12 (2) Front 13 Storage section 14 (2) (outer) edge 15 Insertion direction (direction along which 2 can be inserted into 13) 16 (specifying 6 and 13) rear leg 17 (6, defining 13) Front leg 18 Fitting direction (6 can be fitted onto 2 in this direction, opposite direction to 15) 19 Cover / protective layer, especially formed as an anti-reflective layer 20 Incoming solar rays (incident at 11) 21 Incoming sunlight (incident on 12) 22 (6) outer contours 23 (relative to 11) maximum non-shadowing angle of incidence 24 (relative to 12) maximum non-shadowing incidence angle 25 (6 in 15 directions) envelope 26 (relative to 9 or 10) surface normals 27 (2 or 6) central planes 28 (6) planes of symmetry 29 Shadow formation angle 30 (outer) edge of (9) 31 Lateral extension (measured from 13 transversely to 10, 16, 17) 32 Hollow chamber 33 (connecting 16 and 17) cavity wall 34 Module Frame 35 (16 / 17) module end 36 (between 35 and 9) 37 Mounting element (for mounting 6 / 34 to 4 / 5) 38 (2 / 14) long side 39 (2 / 14) short side 40 (2 6 / 13 in) insertion depth 41 (13) minimum width 42 (joint between 6 / 43 to form 34) 43 Module Retaining Element 44 (of 14) subintervals 45 (of 13 for introducing 2 into 13) 46 (of 6) (lateral) extension 47 Screw fixing part 48 (5) longitudinal direction 49 (Through-through insertion opening formed in 5 for inserting 37 into 5) 50 (37 for attaching 6) tongues 51 (5) Inclination 52 (6) Module side end 53 Long and thin molding material 54 (29) angle bisector 55 Tilt angle 56 (6) opening angle 57 offset (between 30 and 52) 58 (6 laterally spaced apart relative to 10) outer points 59 (52) cross-sectional width 60 Horizontal spacing between the module plane and the module support member, especially the horizontal cell plane-frame spacing (= horizontal spacing between 58 and 10) 61 cell edge spacing (spacing between the outer edge of 2 and 30) 62 Shadow formation length 63 Incline 64 (13) maximum insertion depth 65 (6 in 15 direction) maximum width 66 (the distance between 14 and the stop formed by 6) 67 Stabilizing legs 68 (37 abutting on 5) abutting leg 69 Module Plane 70 (32c) geometric center of gravity 71 Wall thickness increase section

Claims

1. A set consisting of a module holder (6) and the associated bifacial photovoltaic module (2), - the photovoltaic module (2) has an active surface (9) capable of receiving sunlight from a front surface (12) and from a rear surface (11) of the photovoltaic module (2) in order to convert the sunlight into an electric current; the module holder (6) provides a receiving portion (13) into which the outer edge (14) of the photovoltaic module (2) is inserted in an insertion direction (15) and thereby held in place; the receiving space (13) is defined on the front side by the front legs (17) of the module holding element (6) and / or on the rear side by the rear legs (16) of the module holding element (6) in relation to the plane (10) of the working surface (9) of the photovoltaic module (2); In the set, - a set characterized in that the outer points (58a, 58b) on the front and rear sides of a cross section of the module holding member (6) extending perpendicular to the plane (10) of the working surface (9) and related to the shadowing of the module holding member (6) on the working surface (9) are set back in the insertion direction (15) and with respect to the tips (35) of the legs (16, 17) on the module side.

2. A set consisting of a module holder (6) and the associated bifacial photovoltaic module (2), the outer contour (22), in particular the envelope (25) of the module holding element (6), is located inside a shadow angle (29) formed in a cross-sectional plane of the module holding element (6), the cross-sectional plane extending perpendicularly to the plane (10) of the working surface (9), starting from the outer edge (30) of the working surface (9); the angle bisector (54) of said shadow angle (29) makes an inclination angle (55) with said plane (10) of said working surface (9) of maximum 15°, preferably maximum 10° in absolute value; A set according to the preamble of claim 1, in particular according to claim 1.

3. A set according to claim 2, wherein said shadow formation angle (29) is at most 100°, preferably at most 90°.

4. A set consisting of a module holder (6) and the associated bifacial photovoltaic module (2), - the outer contour (22) of the module holding element (6) the maximum non-shadowing angle of incidence (23) at which the incoming solar rays (20) can reach the outer edge (30) of the working surface (9) from the front surface (12); the maximum non-shadowing angle of incidence (24) at which the incoming solar rays (21) can reach the outer edge (30) of the active surface (9) from the rear surface (11); each formed such that it extends at an angle of at least 110°, preferably at least 120°, particularly preferably at least 135° relative to the working surface (9). A set according to the preamble of claim 1, in particular according to any one of claims 1 to 3.

5. the legs (16, 17) of the module holding member (6) form respective outer contours (22) that remain within a virtual or real slope (63) extending towards the module-side introduction opening (45) of the accommodation section (13); Preferably, each of said inclinations (63) forms an angle with said working surface (9) of at least 110°, preferably at least 120°, particularly preferably at least 135°; in particular, each of the outer contours (22) of one of the legs (16, 17) deviates inwards from the inclination (63) towards the receiving part (13) at a predetermined point; A set according to any one of claims 1 to 4.

6. the legs (16, 17) of the module holding element (6) each exhibit a transverse extension (31) of at least 25%, preferably at least 50%, particularly preferably at least 75% of the minimum width (41) of the receiving area (13) in the direction of the surface normal (26) of the working surface (9), measured transversely to the central plane (27) of the photovoltaic module (2); in particular, the width of said receiving portion (13) increases in said insertion direction (15), and / or the central plane (27) of the photovoltaic module (2) is laterally offset with respect to the central plane of the accommodation part (13) or with respect to the central plane (27) of the module holding element (6); A set according to any one of claims 1 to 5.

7. The legs (16, 17) of the module holding member (6) are formed as parts of a hollow molding material (8), Preferably, the module holding member (6) is entirely formed by the hollow molding material (8), Particularly preferably, the legs (16, 17) are mechanically connected to one another via the closed cavity wall (33) of the hollow profile (8), and / or the hollow profile (8) forms a closed cavity wall that defines a cavity (32c), the module plane (69) along which the active surface (9) of the photovoltaic module (2) extends extends through the cavity (32c); Preferably, the geometric centroids (70) of said hollow spaces (32c) exhibit a lateral spacing, perpendicular to said module plane (69), of less than 25% of the lateral extension of said hollow spaces (32c) perpendicular to said module plane (70); and / or - said cavity (32c) is contiguous with said receiving part (13) in said insertion direction (15), and / or - the hollow profile (8) has, in the region of the receiving section (13), an increased wall thickness (71) located in the module plane (69), and / or - at its module-side end (52), the module holder (6) has a cross-sectional width (59) transverse to the insertion direction (15) that corresponds at most to the sum of the minimum width (41) of the receiving section (13) and twice the material thickness (56) of the hollow profile (8); A set according to any one of claims 1 to 6.

8. the module holding member (6) is formed as a module holding element (43) that grips or supports at least one side of only one partial section (43) of the annular outer edge (14) of the photovoltaic module (2), Preferably, the set (1) comprises a plurality of such module holding elements (34) which grip or support at least on one side each section (43) of the outer edge (14) of the photovoltaic module (2), in particular a section (43a, 43b) of each long side (38) or short side (39), A set according to any one of claims 1 to 7.

9. the set has at least four module holding members (6a, 6b, 6c, 6d), which together form a preferably rectangular module frame (34) surrounding the photovoltaic module (2); - in particular for this purpose, said module holding members (6a, 6b, 6c, 6d) are joined at a plurality of joints (42) to form said module frame (34); Preferably, the distance (36a) between the tips (35) of the upper module holding members (6a) arranged on the upper side of the photovoltaic module (2) is selected to be greater than the distance (36c) between the tips (35) of the lower module holding members (6c) arranged on the lower side of the photovoltaic module (2), each based on the operating surface (9). A set according to any one of claims 1 to 7.

10. The edge (14) of the photovoltaic module (2) is inserted into the receiving section (13). - held in a clamp and / or - glued together, in particular by adhesive tape, - preferably sealed and glued by a sealant (41), A set according to any one of claims 1 to 9.

11. a tip (35) of the front leg (17) and / or the rear leg (16) forms the module-side end (52) of the module holding member (6); - Preferably, the module end (52) is located inside the shadow angle (29), A set according to any one of claims 1 to 10.

12. A solar power generation device (1), - a support structure (3) on which a plurality of bifacial photovoltaic modules (2) are arranged upright, - the support structure (3) comprises a number of columns (4) mounted, in particular fixed, on or in the ground, to which beams (5) are attached, connecting every two adjacent columns (4); In a solar power generation device (1), - the photovoltaic modules (2) are attached to the support structure (3) by at least one respective module holding member (6), Each bifacial photovoltaic module (2) and at least one associated module holder (6) form a set (1) according to one of claims 1 to 11. A solar power generation device (1).

13. The set (1) each consisting of one photovoltaic module (2) and at least one associated module holder (6) is - has a module holding member (6) attached to one of said posts (4), preferably by means of a separate attachment element (37), and / or - has a module holding member (6) attached to the underside of one of said beams (5), preferably by means of a separate attachment element (37), and / or - has a module retaining member (6) attached to the upper side of one of said beams (5) preferably by means of a separate attachment element (37), Photovoltaic power generation device (1) according to claim 12.

14. said support structure (3) comprising a beam (5) having a lower surface to which the module holding members (6) of one of said sets (1) are suspended, preferably by separate mounting elements (37), and / or a beam (5) having an upper surface to which the module holding members (6) of one of said sets (1) are attached, preferably by separate mounting elements (37), the cross section of each of the beams (5), extending transversely to the longitudinal direction (48) of the beams (5), is selected in such a way that the maximum non-shadowing angles of incidence (23, 24) at which the incident sun rays (20, 21), respectively, can reach the active surface (9) of the photovoltaic module (2) from the front surface (12) or from the rear surface (11), respectively, are defined by the outer contour (22) of the module holding element (6); Photovoltaic power generation device (1) according to claim 12 or 13.

15. the beam (5) having the underside on which one of the sets (1) is assembled is formed by an elongated profile (53) that is half-open towards the top, preferably in the form of a C-shaped profile; and / or - each of the mounting elements (37) is inserted into a through-hole (49), preferably in the form of a slot, provided on the underside of the beam (5), so that a module holder (6) of one of the sets (1) arranged on the underside of the beam (5) can be attached to the beam (5); and / or - the mounting element (37) forms on its front and rear sides tongues (50) respectively, onto which the module holders (6) of the associated set (1) are attached, preferably clamped or screwed; Photovoltaic power plant (1) according to any one of claims 12 to 14.

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