Photovoltaic module

Abstract

This invention provides a photovoltaic module that suppresses performance degradation and malfunctions caused by the connection between the photovoltaic element and the electrode. [Solution] The photovoltaic module 1 is generally configured to include a first conductive fabric 11 and a second conductive fabric 12, an insulator 14 having a first exposed portion 141 and a second exposed portion 142 and covering the first conductive fabric 11 and the second conductive fabric 12, a photovoltaic element 22 having a first electrode 15 electrically connected to the first conductive fabric 11, a second electrode 16 electrically connected to the second conductive fabric 12, a first electrode terminal 17 electrically connected to the first conductive fabric 11, and a second electrode terminal 18 electrically connected to the second conductive fabric 12, which converts the light energy of light 3 incident on the conversion region 20 into electrical energy, and a covering portion 24 covering the insulator 14, the first electrode 15, the second electrode 16, and the conversion region 20 of the photovoltaic element 22.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to a photovoltaic module.

Background Art

[0002] As a conventional technique, an interconnector for solar cells formed from a metal braided fabric in which metal fibers are braided in a cloth shape or a metal woven fabric in which metal fibers are woven in a cloth shape is known (see, for example, Patent Document 1).

[0003] This interconnector for solar cells is connected to the electrodes of solar cells by welding.

Prior Art Documents

Patent Documents

[0004]

Patent Document 1

Summary of the Invention

Problems to be Solved by the Invention

[0005] In the case of welding, the conventional interconnector for solar cells may cause heat to be transmitted and lead to performance degradation or defects in the solar cells.

[0006] Therefore, an object of the present invention is to provide a photovoltaic module that suppresses performance degradation and defects caused by the connection between a photovoltaic element and an electrode.

Means for Solving the Problems

[0007] One aspect of the present invention provides a photovoltaic module comprising: a first conductive cloth and a second conductive cloth, which are conductive cloths; an insulator covering the first conductive cloth and the second conductive cloth, having a first exposed portion in which a part of the first conductive cloth is exposed and a second exposed portion in which a part of the second conductive cloth is exposed; a first electrode disposed in the first exposed portion and electrically connected to the first conductive cloth; a second electrode disposed in the second exposed portion and electrically connected to the second conductive cloth; a photovoltaic element having a first electrode terminal electrically connected to the first conductive cloth via the first electrode and a second electrode terminal electrically connected to the second conductive cloth via the second electrode, which converts the light energy of light incident on a conversion region into electrical energy; and a covering portion that transmits at least a portion of the incident light and covers the insulator, the first electrode, the second electrode, and the conversion region of the photovoltaic element. [Effects of the Invention]

[0008] According to the present invention, performance degradation and malfunctions caused by the connection between the photovoltaic element and the electrode can be suppressed. [Brief explanation of the drawing]

[0009] [Figure 1] Figure 1 shows an example of a photovoltaic module according to the first embodiment. [Figure 2] Figure 2 shows an example of a photovoltaic module according to the first embodiment, in which an insulator is applied to the first conductive fabric and the second conductive fabric. [Figure 3] Figure 3(a) is an example of a cross-sectional view of the optical electrode module according to the first embodiment, taken from the direction of the arrow along the line III-III in Figure 1, and Figure 3(b) is a diagram showing an example of the connection between the first electrode and the first electrode terminal, and between the second electrode and the second electrode terminal. [Figure 4] Figure 4 shows an example of a photovoltaic module according to the second embodiment. [Figure 5] Figure 5 shows an example of a photovoltaic module according to the third embodiment. [Figure 6]Figure 6 shows an example of a photovoltaic module according to the fourth embodiment. [Figure 7] Figure 7 is an example of a cross-sectional view of a photovoltaic module according to the fifth embodiment. [Figure 8] Figure 8 is an example of a cross-sectional view of a photovoltaic module according to the fifth embodiment, obtained by cutting along the line Viii-Viii in Figure 7, as seen from the direction of the arrow. [Figure 9] Figure 9 shows an example of a cross-sectional view of a modified photovoltaic module. [Modes for carrying out the invention]

[0010] (Summary of the embodiment) The photovoltaic module according to the embodiment is generally configured to include a first conductive cloth and a second conductive cloth, which are conductive cloths; an insulator that covers the first conductive cloth and the second conductive cloth, having a first exposed portion in which a part of the first conductive cloth is exposed and a second exposed portion in which a part of the second conductive cloth is exposed; a first electrode disposed in the first exposed portion and electrically connected to the first conductive cloth; a second electrode disposed in the second exposed portion and electrically connected to the second conductive cloth; a first electrode terminal electrically connected to the first conductive cloth via the first electrode and a second electrode terminal electrically connected to the second conductive cloth via the second electrode, which converts the light energy of light incident on the conversion region into electrical energy; and a covering portion that transmits at least a portion of the incident light and covers the insulator, the first electrode, the second electrode, and the conversion region of the photovoltaic element.

[0011] In this photovoltaic module, the electrical connection between the first and second electrodes of the photovoltaic element and the first and second conductive fabrics is not made by a heat-based connection method such as welding, fusion, or soldering. Therefore, performance degradation and malfunctions caused by the connection between the photovoltaic element and the electrodes can be suppressed.

[0012] [First Embodiment] (Overview of Photovoltaic Module 1) Figure 1 shows an example of a photovoltaic module according to the first embodiment. Figure 2 shows an example of the first conductive cloth and second conductive cloth of the photovoltaic module according to the first embodiment covered with an insulator. Figure 3(a) is an example of a cross-sectional view of the optical electrode module according to the first embodiment, taken from the direction of the arrow as the cross-section is cut along line III-III in Figure 1, and Figure 3(b) shows an example of the connection between the first electrode and the first electrode terminal, and between the second electrode and the second electrode terminal. Note that in the figures relating to the embodiments described below, the ratios and shapes between figures may differ from the actual ratios and shapes.

[0013] As shown in Figures 1 to 3(b), the photovoltaic module 1 includes a first conductive cloth 11 and a second conductive cloth 12, which are conductive cloths; a first exposed portion 141 in which a part of the first conductive cloth 11 is exposed; a second exposed portion 142 in which a part of the second conductive cloth 12 is exposed; an insulator 14 covering the first conductive cloth 11 and the second conductive cloth 12; a first electrode 15 positioned in the first exposed portion 141 and electrically connected to the first conductive cloth 11; and a second exposed portion 142 and electrically connected to the second conductive cloth 12. The photovoltaic element 22 has a second electrode 16, a first electrode terminal 17 electrically connected to the first conductive fabric 11 via the first electrode 15, and a second electrode terminal 18 electrically connected to the second conductive fabric 12 via the second electrode 16, and converts the light energy of light 3 incident on the conversion region 20 into electrical energy; and a covering portion 24 that transmits at least a portion of the incident light 3 and covers the insulator 14, the first electrode 15, the second electrode 16, and the conversion region 20 of the photovoltaic element 22.

[0014] (Configuration of the first conductive fabric 11 and the second conductive fabric 12) The first conductive cloth 11 and the second conductive cloth 12 can be, for example, a metal knitted cloth knitted with metal fibers, a conductive cloth woven from a metal knitted cloth into a cloth shape, a conductive cloth provided with a metal layer on resin fibers, and a conductive cloth knitted with (innermost tube·PET: Polyethylene Terephthalate / middle layer·Cu / outer skin·AG or Ni) fibers. The first conductive cloth 11 and the second conductive cloth 12 are, as an example, about 0.3 mm thick, but are not limited thereto.

[0015] As shown in FIGS. 1 and 2, the first conductive cloth 11 and the second conductive cloth 12 have an elongated shape. The first conductive cloth 11 and the second conductive cloth 12 are arranged apart from each other. The first conductive cloth 11 and the second conductive cloth 12 are covered by an insulator 14, but are exposed to the outside at the first exposed portion 141 and the second exposed portion 142, and are further exposed to the outside at the third exposed portion 143 and the fourth exposed portion 144 described later.

[0016] (Configuration of Insulator 14) The insulator 14 is, for example, an insulating sheet. This insulating sheet may be transparent or opaque. The insulating sheet is formed in a sheet shape using, for example, polyurethane, silicon, polyester, polyimide, or the like. The insulator 14 is, as an example, about 0.1 mm thick, but is not limited thereto.

[0017] As an example, as shown in FIG. 3(a), the insulator 14 is configured by bonding a first insulating sheet 14a and a second insulating sheet 14b. As shown in FIG. 2, the first exposed portion 141 to the fourth exposed portion 144 are provided on the second insulating sheet 14b. The first exposed portion 141 to the fourth exposed portion 144 are openings provided in the second insulating sheet 14b.

[0018] The first exposed portion 141 and the second exposed portion 142 are openings for electrically connecting the first conductive cloth 11 and the second conductive cloth 12 to the photovoltaic element 22. The third exposed portion 143 and the fourth exposed portion 144 are openings for electrically connecting to a load driven by the power generation of the photovoltaic module 1.

[0019] (Configuration of the first electrode 15 and the second electrode 16) The first electrode 15 and the second electrode 16 are formed from, for example, a conductive metal material such as copper, and a conductive alloy material using these materials. As shown in Figure 1, the first electrode 15 and the second electrode 16 have an elongated shape, but metal foils such as copper foil or aluminum foil may also be used.

[0020] As shown in Figure 3(b), the first electrode 15 has a recess 153 on its side surface 152 and is configured to sandwich the first electrode terminal 17 of the photovoltaic element 22. The lower surface 151 of the first electrode 15 is positioned on the first exposed portion 141 of the insulator 14 and contacts the first conductive fabric 11 that is exposed on this first exposed portion 141. This contact causes the first electrode 15 and the first conductive fabric 11 to be electrically connected. The upper surface 150, a part of the side surface 152, a part of the side surface 154, and a part of the short-side end surface 155 and end surface 156 of the first electrode 15 are covered by the covering portion 24.

[0021] As shown in Figure 3(b), the second electrode 16 has a recess 163 on its side surface 162 and is configured to sandwich the second electrode terminal 18 of the photovoltaic element 22. The lower surface 161 of the second electrode 16 is positioned on the second exposed portion 142 of the insulator 14 and contacts the second conductive fabric 12 exposed on this second exposed portion 142. This contact causes electrical conductivity between the second electrode 16 and the second conductive fabric 12. The upper surface 160, a part of the side surface 162, a part of the side surface 164, and a part of the short-side end surface 165 and end surface 166 of the second electrode 16 are covered by the covering portion 24.

[0022] (Configuration of the photovoltaic element 22) The photovoltaic element 22 can be an organic solar cell, a silicon solar cell, a compound solar cell, or an organic-inorganic hybrid solar cell. In this embodiment, the photovoltaic element 22 is, for example, a perovskite solar cell, which is an organic-inorganic hybrid solar cell. The photovoltaic element 22 has a thickness of approximately 0.3 mm, for example, but is not limited to this.

[0023] Perovskite solar cells are solar cells made from materials having a perovskite structure, and are lightweight and highly flexible. A perovskite solar cell is generally configured to include, for example, a photoelectric conversion layer having a perovskite layer, a hole transport layer and an electron transport layer, and a first electrode terminal 17 and a second electrode terminal 18 arranged on either side of the photoelectric conversion layer. When light strikes a perovskite solar cell, electrons and holes are generated in the perovskite layer, and electrons are transported to the negative electrode via the electron transport layer, and holes are transported to the positive electrode terminal via the hole transport layer, generating electric current and producing power through the movement of charge.

[0024] As shown in Figure 1, the photovoltaic element 22 has a plurality of cells 220. In this embodiment, as an example, the photovoltaic element 22 has strip-shaped cells 220 arranged at equal intervals.

[0025] As shown in Figures 3(a) and 3(b), the photovoltaic element 22 has a first electrode terminal 17 and a second electrode terminal 18. These first electrode terminal 17 and second electrode terminal 18 are electrically connected to a plurality of cells 220, with one being the positive electrode terminal and the other the negative electrode terminal. In this embodiment, the photovoltaic element 22 is provided on a pair of sides.

[0026] As shown in Figure 3(a), the photovoltaic element 22 generates power in response to the incident light 3. The photovoltaic element 22 converts a portion of the light energy of the light 3 incident on the conversion region 20 into electrical energy, as shown in Figure 3(a).

[0027] As shown in Figures 1 and 3(a), this conversion region 20 is an area formed by multiple cells 220. From the viewpoint of conversion efficiency, it is preferable that the first electrode 15 and the second electrode 16 are placed outside the conversion region 20.

[0028] Furthermore, the photovoltaic element 22 converts the light energy 3 from the surface 26 into electrical energy. The photovoltaic module 1 may also be configured such that the insulator 14 is made of a transparent material, and the space between the first conductive fabric 11 and the second conductive fabric 12 is widened, in order to easily capture light incident from the back surface 27.

[0029] (Configuration of the covering portion 24) As shown in Figure 3(a), the covering portion 24 is also provided on top of the photovoltaic element 22. Therefore, the covering portion 24 is made of a material with high light transmittance. For example, the transmittance is 90% or more. Also, for example, the thickness of the covering portion 24 is about 0.1 mm, but it is not limited to this.

[0030] The covering portion 24 in this embodiment is a transparent tape made of a transparent fluorine-based material. Examples of fluorine-based materials include ETFE (Ethylene Tetra Fluoro Ethylen) and PFA (Perfluoroalkoxy Alkane). The adhesive of the transparent tape is, for example, a silicone-based adhesive. These transparent tapes have a water-repellent effect, i.e., a waterproof effect, as well as an anti-fouling effect that suppresses soiling of the conversion region 20.

[0031] The covering portion 24 covers the insulator 14, the first electrode 15, the second electrode 16, and the photovoltaic element 22. Because the covering portion 24 has high light transmittance, it suppresses the attenuation of light 3 incident on the photovoltaic element 22 and also suppresses peeling of the overlapping end 4 of the two insulating sheets.

[0032] The photovoltaic module 1 can electrically connect the first electrode 15 to the first conductive fabric 11, and the second electrode 16 to the second conductive fabric 12 by bonding the covering portion 24 together.

[0033] (Regarding the assembly of photovoltaic module 1) First, the photovoltaic elements 22 are placed in the recess 153 of the first electrode 15 and the recess 163 of the second electrode 16.

[0034] Next, the first conductive fabric 11 and the second conductive fabric 12 are attached to the first insulating sheet 14a. Then, the second insulating sheet 14b, which has the first exposed portion 141 to the fourth exposed portion 144 formed on it, is attached.

[0035] Next, the photovoltaic element 22 is positioned such that the first electrode 15 is located on the first exposed portion 141 and the second electrode 16 is located on the second exposed portion 142.

[0036] Next, the entire structure is covered with the covering portion 24 to obtain the photovoltaic module 1. This photovoltaic module 1 is, for example, about 1 mm thick. Note that the placement of the photovoltaic elements 22 in the recesses 153 of the first electrode 15 and the recesses 163 of the second electrode 16 may be done immediately before placing the photovoltaic elements 22 on the insulator 14.

[0037] (Effects of the first embodiment) The photovoltaic module 1 according to this embodiment can suppress performance degradation and malfunctions caused by the connection between the photovoltaic element 22 and the first conductive fabric 11 and the second conductive fabric 12. Specifically, the photovoltaic module 1 makes electrical connections between the first electrode 15 to which the photovoltaic element 22 is attached and the first conductive fabric 11, and between the second electrode 16 and the second conductive fabric 12 by bringing them into contact and covering them with a covering portion 24 from above. Compared to cases where heat is applied, such as welding, welding, and soldering, this does not cause performance degradation or malfunctions of the photovoltaic element 22 due to heat transfer. Therefore, the photovoltaic module 1 substantially prevents performance degradation and malfunctions caused by the connection between the photovoltaic element 22 and the first conductive fabric 11 and the second conductive fabric 12.

[0038] The photovoltaic module 1 allows the photovoltaic element 22 to be connected to the first conductive fabric 11 and the second conductive fabric 12 without using resin screws or nuts. Therefore, there are no protruding parts such as resin screws or nuts, and electric shock or leakage paths due to leakage current from the connection part do not occur, and the module can be made even thinner.

[0039] The photovoltaic module 1 uses a perovskite solar cell as the photovoltaic element 22, which is lightweight and flexible. This perovskite solar cell is sensitive to heat. However, since the photovoltaic module 1 can mount the photovoltaic element 22 without being placed in a high-temperature environment, it suppresses performance degradation and malfunctions compared to mounting methods that involve applying heat such as welding, soldering, and soldering, while also offering superior lightness and flexibility.

[0040] Since the photovoltaic module 1 uses a transparent fluorine-based tape as the covering portion 24, compared to a configuration that does not employ this, the transparency and water-repellent effect of the conversion region 20 can suppress a decrease in conversion efficiency. In addition, the covering portion 24 of the photovoltaic module 1 prevents liquid from entering and damaging the photovoltaic element 22, and provides high insulation, heat resistance, acid resistance, and salt damage resistance.

[0041] The photovoltaic module 1 allows for visual alignment of the first exposed portion 141 and the second exposed portion 142 of the insulator 14 and the first electrode 15 and the second electrode 16 of the photovoltaic element 22. Therefore, compared to mounting by welding, soldering, etc., connection conditions, misalignment, and connection failures can be suppressed.

[0042] Since the photovoltaic module 1 attaches the photovoltaic element 22 by attaching the covering part 24, it is easier to replace the photovoltaic element 22 compared to mounting by welding, soldering, etc.

[0043] Since multiple photovoltaic modules 1 can be connected together, a high-output yet flexible power generation unit can be easily constructed. Therefore, photovoltaic modules 1 can be attached to items requiring flexibility, such as wearable devices and textile products (clothing and bags).

[0044] [Second Embodiment] The second embodiment differs from the first embodiment in that it has a plurality of photovoltaic elements 22 arranged in a direction along the first conductive fabric 11 and the second conductive fabric 12.

[0045] Figure 4 shows an example of a photovoltaic module according to the second embodiment. In the embodiments described below, parts having the same function and configuration as those in the first embodiment will be denoted by the same reference numerals as in the first embodiment, and their descriptions will be omitted.

[0046] As shown in Figure 4, the photovoltaic module 1 is generally configured to include a plurality of photovoltaic elements 22 arranged in a direction along the first conductive fabric 11 and the second conductive fabric 12. In this embodiment, the photovoltaic module 1 has a first photovoltaic element 22a and a second photovoltaic element 22b arranged as two photovoltaic elements 22, but is not limited to this, and a plurality of photovoltaic elements 22 may be arranged so as to share the first conductive fabric 11 and the second conductive fabric 12.

[0047] The direction along the first conductive fabric 11 and the second conductive fabric 12 is, for example, the direction of arrow X, which indicates the vertical direction on the page of Figure 4.

[0048] The first photovoltaic element 22a and the second photovoltaic element 22b have their first electrode terminals 17 electrically connected to the first conductive fabric 11, and their second electrode terminals 18 electrically connected to the second conductive fabric 12. Therefore, the photovoltaic module 1 has the first photovoltaic element 22a and the second photovoltaic element 22b connected in parallel. As a modification, the photovoltaic module 1 may have multiple photovoltaic elements 22 connected in series. In addition, to prevent reverse current flow, the photovoltaic module 1 may have a diode installed on one side of either electrode 15 or 16.

[0049] (Effects of the second embodiment) In this embodiment, the photovoltaic module 1 allows for the arrangement of multiple photovoltaic elements 22 in a direction along the first conductive fabric 11 and the second conductive fabric 12. Therefore, compared to a configuration that does not employ this approach, the number of photovoltaic elements 22 can be increased without increasing the number of conductive fabrics.

[0050] Compared to connecting photovoltaic elements by wiring, the photovoltaic module 1 makes it easy to increase or decrease the number of photovoltaic elements 22 to be arranged according to the required amount of power.

[0051] [Third Embodiment] The third embodiment differs from the first and second embodiments in that it is possible to increase the number of photovoltaic elements 22 in a direction intersecting the direction along the first conductive fabric 11 and the second conductive fabric 12 by increasing the amount of conductive fabric between the first conductive fabric 11 and the second conductive fabric 12.

[0052] Figure 5 shows an example of a photovoltaic module according to the third embodiment. As an example, Figure 5 shows an example in which two photovoltaic elements 22 are connected in parallel.

[0053] As shown in Figure 5, the photovoltaic module 1 is generally configured to include at least one conductive fabric placed between the first conductive fabric 11 and the second conductive fabric 12, depending on the number of photovoltaic elements 22. Multiple photovoltaic elements 22 are arranged in a direction that intersects the direction along the first conductive fabric 11 and the second conductive fabric 12.

[0054] The direction along the first conductive fabric 11 and the second conductive fabric 12 is, for example, the direction of arrow X, which indicates the vertical direction on the page of Figure 5. The direction intersecting the direction along the first conductive fabric 11 and the second conductive fabric 12 is, for example, the direction of arrow Y, which indicates the horizontal direction on the page of Figure 5.

[0055] In this embodiment, the photovoltaic module 1 includes, as an example, a first photovoltaic element 22a and a second photovoltaic element 22b as multiple photovoltaic elements 22, but it may also include multiple photovoltaic elements 22.

[0056] Furthermore, the photovoltaic module 1, for example, includes a first photovoltaic element 22a and a second photovoltaic element 22b, and therefore includes a third conductive fabric 13 as at least one conductive fabric between the first conductive fabric 11 and the second conductive fabric 12. In the case of three photovoltaic elements 22 in the photovoltaic module 1, two conductive fabrics are added between the first conductive fabric 11 and the second conductive fabric 12, and in the case of four elements, three conductive fabrics are added.

[0057] When the first photovoltaic element 22a and the second photovoltaic element 22b are connected in parallel, as an example, as shown in Figure 5, the second electrode 16 of the first photovoltaic element 22a and the second electrode 16 of the second photovoltaic element 22b are electrically connected to the third conductive fabric 13. In addition, the first electrode 15 of the first photovoltaic element 22a is electrically connected to the first conductive fabric 11. Furthermore, the first electrode 15 of the second photovoltaic element 22b is electrically connected to the second conductive fabric 12.

[0058] In the photovoltaic module 1, when the first photovoltaic element 22a and the second photovoltaic element 22b are connected in parallel, the first conductive fabric 11 and the second conductive fabric 12 function as one of the positive and negative electrodes, and the third conductive fabric 13 function as the other of the positive and negative electrodes.

[0059] When the first photovoltaic element 22a and the second photovoltaic element 22b are connected in series, for example, the second electrode 16 of the first photovoltaic element 22a and the first electrode 15 of the second photovoltaic element 22b are electrically connected to the third conductive fabric 13. In addition, the first electrode 15 of the first photovoltaic element 22a is electrically connected to the first conductive fabric 11. Furthermore, the second electrode 16 of the second photovoltaic element 22b is electrically connected to the second conductive fabric 12. Note that the photovoltaic module 1 may have a diode installed on one side of either electrode 15 or 16 to prevent reverse current flow.

[0060] In the photovoltaic module 1, when the first photovoltaic element 22a and the second photovoltaic element 22b are connected in series, the first conductive cloth 11 functions as one of the positive and negative electrodes, and the second conductive cloth 12 functions as the other of the positive and negative electrodes.

[0061] (Effects of the third embodiment) In this embodiment, the photovoltaic module 1 allows the photovoltaic elements 22 to be arranged in a direction that intersects the directions along the first conductive fabric 11 and the second conductive fabric 12, thereby improving the degree of freedom in the arrangement of the photovoltaic elements 22.

[0062] Compared to connecting photovoltaic elements by wiring, the photovoltaic module 1 makes it easy to increase or decrease the number of photovoltaic elements 22 to be arranged according to the required amount of power.

[0063] [Fourth Embodiment] The fourth embodiment differs from the other embodiments in that the photovoltaic elements are arranged in a grid pattern.

[0064] Figure 6 shows an example of a photovoltaic module according to the fourth embodiment.

[0065] As shown in Figure 6, the photovoltaic module 1 is generally configured to include a plurality of photovoltaic elements 22 arranged in a grid pattern, each electrically connected to a first electrode 15 and a second electrode 16, and at least one conductive fabric arranged between the first conductive fabric 11 and the second conductive fabric 12, and positioned according to the plurality of photovoltaic elements 22 so as to be electrically connected to adjacent electrodes.

[0066] In this embodiment, the photovoltaic module 1 includes, as an example, a plurality of photovoltaic elements 22, specifically a first photovoltaic element 22a to a fourth photovoltaic element 22d, but it may also include a further plurality of photovoltaic elements 22.

[0067] Furthermore, in the photovoltaic module 1, for example, the first photovoltaic elements 22a to the fourth photovoltaic elements 22d are arranged in a grid, and therefore, a third conductive fabric 13 is provided as at least one conductive fabric between the first conductive fabric 11 and the second conductive fabric 12. In the photovoltaic module 1, if the photovoltaic elements 22 are arranged in three rows, two conductive fabrics are added between the first conductive fabric 11 and the second conductive fabric 12, and if they are arranged in four rows, three conductive fabrics are added.

[0068] As an example, in the photovoltaic module 1, as shown in Figure 6, the first photovoltaic element 22a and the second photovoltaic element 22b are arranged vertically and share the first conductive fabric 11 and the third conductive fabric 13. Also as an example, in the photovoltaic module 1, as shown in Figure 6, the third photovoltaic element 22c and the fourth photovoltaic element 22d are arranged vertically and share the third conductive fabric 13 and the second conductive fabric 12.

[0069] In the photovoltaic module 1, the first photovoltaic element 22a and the third photovoltaic element 22c, which are arranged horizontally, are connected in series, as are the second photovoltaic element 22b and the fourth photovoltaic element 22d, which are also connected in series, and the first photovoltaic element 22a and the third photovoltaic element 22c and the second photovoltaic element 22b and the fourth photovoltaic element 22d, which are arranged vertically, are connected in parallel.

[0070] In this case, the adjacent electrodes are the second electrode 16 of the first photovoltaic element 22a and the first electrode 15 of the third photovoltaic element 22c, and the second electrode 16 of the second photovoltaic element 22b and the first electrode 15 of the fourth photovoltaic element 22d.

[0071] In the photovoltaic module 1, the first conductive fabric 11 functions as one of the positive and negative electrodes, and the second conductive fabric 12 functions as the other of the positive and negative electrodes. Note that the photovoltaic module 1 may also have a diode installed on one side of either electrode 15 or 16 to prevent reverse current flow.

[0072] (Effects of the fourth embodiment) In this embodiment, the photovoltaic module 1 allows the photovoltaic elements 22 to be arranged both vertically and horizontally. Compared to the case where they are arranged in only one direction, this further increases the degree of freedom in arranging the photovoltaic elements 22 and increases the amount of electricity generated.

[0073] [Fifth Embodiment] The fifth embodiment differs from the other embodiments in that it includes an outer covering portion that further covers the photovoltaic module.

[0074] Figure 7 is an example of a cross-sectional view of a photovoltaic module according to the fifth embodiment. Figure 8 is an example of a cross-sectional view of the photovoltaic module according to the fifth embodiment, taken from the direction of the arrow, when the module is cut along the line Viii-Viii in Figure 7.

[0075] As shown in Figures 7 and 8, the photovoltaic module 1 is generally configured to include an outer covering portion 28 that covers at least the area other than the conversion region 20.

[0076] This outer covering portion 28 is a tape having at least one of color or a pattern. Therefore, as shown in Figure 7, the photovoltaic module 1 is designed so that parts other than the conversion area 20 are not visible from the outside.

[0077] As shown in Figure 8, the covering portion 24 is arranged to mainly cover the conversion region 20 of the photovoltaic element 22.

[0078] The outer covering portion 28 is, for example, a tape made of a fluorine-based material such as ETFE or PFA. The outer covering portion 28 has an opening 281. The conversion region 20 is the region exposed through this opening 281. In other words, multiple cells 220 of the photovoltaic element 22 are exposed through the opening 281.

[0079] The outer covering portion 28 does not need to be transparent, as multiple cells 220 are exposed through the opening 281. Therefore, the outer covering portion 28 is configured to have a color or pattern so as to conceal the first electrode 15, the second electrode 16, and the insulator 14. In addition, the photovoltaic module 1 may have a diode installed on one side of either electrode 15 or 16 to prevent reverse current flow.

[0080] Furthermore, the outer covering portion 28 may include a material that absorbs ultraviolet rays, or its surface 280 may be treated with a water-repellent coating. If the outer covering portion 28 absorbs ultraviolet rays, it can suppress the deterioration of the insulator 14 and the covering portion 24. Also, if the outer covering portion 28 is treated with a water-repellent coating, it can suppress the adhesion of liquids, foreign matter, etc.

[0081] Furthermore, the outer covering portion 28 can suppress peeling of the end portion 4, which is the bonded portion of the first insulating sheet 14a and the second insulating sheet 14b, and the intrusion of liquids, etc.

[0082] (Effects of the fifth embodiment) In this embodiment, the photovoltaic module 1 has an outer covering portion 28 that covers the end portion 4, which is the bonded portion of the first insulating sheet 14a and the second insulating sheet 14b. Compared to the case where there is no covering, this suppresses peeling of the first insulating sheet 14a and the second insulating sheet 14b and the intrusion of liquids and other substances into the interior from the end portion 4.

[0083] When the photovoltaic module 1 is configured to absorb ultraviolet light, the degradation of the insulator 14 can be suppressed compared to when it is not configured to absorb ultraviolet light.

[0084] The photovoltaic module 1 can have its design improved by adding color or patterns to the outer covering portion 28, thereby concealing everything except the cells 220.

[0085] • Regarding variations Figure 9 shows an example of a cross-sectional view of a modified photovoltaic module.

[0086] As a modified example, the outer covering portion 28 may be provided only on the upper side of the photovoltaic module 1, as shown in Figure 9. In this modified example, the outer covering portion 28 can absorb ultraviolet light from light 3, thereby suppressing the deterioration of the insulator 14. Furthermore, the photovoltaic module 1 can have its design improved by concealing parts other than the cells 220 with the color and pattern of the outer covering portion 28.

[0087] According to the photovoltaic module 1 of at least one embodiment described above, performance degradation and malfunctions caused by the connection between the photovoltaic element and the electrode can be suppressed.

[0088] Although several embodiments and modifications of the present invention have been described above, these embodiments and modifications are merely examples and do not limit the invention as defined in the claims. These novel embodiments and modifications can be implemented in various other forms, and various omissions, substitutions, and modifications can be made without departing from the spirit of the invention. Furthermore, not all combinations of features described in these embodiments and modifications are necessarily essential for solving the problem of the invention. Moreover, these embodiments and modifications are included in the scope and spirit of the invention, as well as in the invention described in the claims and its equivalents. [Explanation of symbols]

[0089] 1…Photovoltaic module, 3…Light, 4…End, 11~13…First conductive fabric~Third conductive fabric, 14…Insulator, 14a…First insulating sheet, 14b…Second insulating sheet, 15…First electrode, 16…Second electrode, 17…First electrode terminal, 18…Second electrode terminal, 20…Conversion region, 22…Photovoltaic element, 22a~22d…First photovoltaic element~Fourth photovoltaic element, 24… Covering part, 26...front surface, 27...back surface, 28...outer covering part, 141~144...first exposed part~fourth exposed part, 150...top surface, 151...bottom surface, 152...side surface, 153...recess, 154...side surface, 155...end surface, 156...end surface, 160...top surface, 161...bottom surface, 162...side surface, 163...recess, 164...side surface, 165...end surface, 166...end surface, 220...cell, 280...front surface, 281...opening

Claims

1. A first conductive fabric and a second conductive fabric, which are conductive fabrics, An insulator having a first exposed portion in which a part of the first conductive fabric is exposed, and a second exposed portion in which a part of the second conductive fabric is exposed, covering the first conductive fabric and the second conductive fabric, A first electrode is placed in the first exposed portion and electrically connected to the first conductive cloth, A second electrode is positioned in the second exposed portion and electrically connected to the second conductive cloth, A photovoltaic element having a first electrode terminal electrically connected to the first conductive fabric via the first electrode, and a second electrode terminal electrically connected to the second conductive fabric via the second electrode, which converts the light energy of light incident on the conversion region into electrical energy, A covering portion that transmits at least a portion of the incident light and covers the insulator, the first electrode, the second electrode, and the conversion region of the photovoltaic element, A photovoltaic module is provided.

2. The present invention comprises a plurality of photovoltaic elements arranged in a direction along the first conductive fabric and the second conductive fabric, The photovoltaic module according to claim 1.

3. The system comprises at least one conductive fabric disposed between the first conductive fabric and the second conductive fabric, depending on the number of photovoltaic elements, The multiple photovoltaic elements are arranged in a direction that intersects the direction along the first conductive fabric and the second conductive fabric. The photovoltaic module according to claim 1.

4. Each of the photovoltaic elements is electrically connected to the first electrode and the second electrode, and a plurality of photovoltaic elements are arranged in a grid pattern, At least one conductive fabric is arranged between the first conductive fabric and the second conductive fabric, and is positioned according to the plurality of photovoltaic elements so as to be electrically connected to adjacent electrodes, A photovoltaic module according to claim 1, comprising:

5. Having an outer covering portion that covers at least the area other than the conversion region, The photovoltaic module according to claim 1.

6. The outer covering portion is a tape having at least one of color or a pattern. The photovoltaic module according to claim 5.

7. The covering portion is a transparent tape made of a transparent fluorine-based material. A photovoltaic module according to any one of claims 1 to 6.

8. The aforementioned photovoltaic element is a perovskite solar cell. The photovoltaic module according to claim 7.

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