Solar power generation system

Abstract

The objective is to provide a solar power generation system that can reduce costs. [Solution] The photovoltaic power generation system of Embodiment 1 comprises a solar cell module, a wiring box, and a conversion box. The solar cell module has battery connection terminals which are positive and negative terminals, and battery connection terminals which are terminals for three or more connecting wires. The wiring box comprises a plurality of wiring connectors and internal wiring. The plurality of wiring connectors include wiring box connection terminals which can be connected to battery connection terminals and wiring box connection terminals which can be connected to battery connection terminals. The internal wiring can configure circuits that combine series and parallel connections of solar cell modules. The conversion box comprises a conversion box connection terminal which can be connected to battery connection terminals and a cable connector which can be connected to a power converter.

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] Embodiments of the present invention relate to a photovoltaic power generation system. [Background technology]

[0002] A solar power generation system is constructed by connecting multiple solar cell modules in series and parallel to a power converter (power conditioner). The solar power generation system circuit is constructed by connecting multiple solar cell modules with DC cables. Special DC cables are used to connect multiple solar cell modules in parallel. DC cables are also used to connect the circuit to the power converter. There is a need to reduce the cost of the solar power generation system. [Prior art documents] [Patent Documents]

[0003] [Patent Document 1] Japanese Patent Publication No. 2004-214475 [Overview of the project] [Problems that the invention aims to solve]

[0004] The problem that this invention aims to solve is to provide a solar power generation system that can reduce costs. [Means for solving the problem]

[0005] The photovoltaic power generation system of Embodiment 1 comprises a solar cell module, a wiring box, and a conversion box. The solar cell module has battery connection terminals which are positive and negative terminals, and battery connection terminals which are terminals for three or more connecting wires. The wiring box comprises a plurality of wiring connectors and internal wiring. The plurality of wiring connectors include wiring box connection terminals which can be connected to battery connection terminals and wiring box connection terminals which can be connected to battery connection terminals. The internal wiring can configure circuits that combine series and parallel connections of solar cell modules. The conversion box has a conversion box connection terminal which can be connected to battery connection terminals and a cable connector which can be connected to a power converter.

[0006] Embodiment 2 is based on the photovoltaic power generation system described in Embodiment 1. The photovoltaic power generation system can increase the number of combinations of solar cell modules and wiring boxes. The photovoltaic power generation system can replace one solar cell module with multiple interconnected solar cell modules. The photovoltaic power generation system can increase the number of solar cell modules connected to the wiring box connection terminals via conversion boxes.

[0007] Embodiment 3 is based on the photovoltaic power generation system described in Embodiment 1 or 2. The conversion box comprises a case and three conversion connectors. The case is rectangular in plan view. The three conversion connectors are equipped with a conversion box connection terminal and a conversion box linking terminal that can be connected to a battery connection terminal. Of the four sides of the case, three conversion connectors are arranged corresponding to three sides, and a cable connector is arranged on one side. The photovoltaic power generation system of embodiment 4 comprises a solar cell module, a wiring box, and a conversion box. The solar cell module has battery connection terminals which are positive and negative terminals, and battery connection terminals which are terminals for connecting wiring that is not connected to the positive and negative terminals. The wiring box comprises a plurality of wiring connectors and internal wiring. The plurality of wiring connectors include wiring box connection terminals that can be connected to battery connection terminals and wiring box connection terminals that can be connected to battery connection terminals. The internal wiring can configure circuits that combine series and parallel connections of the solar cell modules. The conversion box has cable connectors that can be connected to the solar cell module or wiring box and can be connected to a power converter. [Brief explanation of the drawing]

[0008] [Figure 1] A schematic diagram of a solar cell module. [Figure 2] A schematic diagram of a modified solar cell module. [Figure 3] Plan view of the wiring box. [Figure 4] A perspective view of the wiring box with the top cover removed. [Figure 5] Cross-sectional view along line VV in Figure 3. [Figure 6] Layout diagram of the first circuit. [Figure 7] Circuit diagram of the first circuit. [Figure 8] Diagram illustrating the conduction path of the first circuit. [Figure 9] A schematic diagram of the wiring box for the first circuit. [Figure 10] Layout diagram of the solar cell modules and wiring box for the first circuit. [Figure 11] First explanatory diagram of the continuity path in the wiring box of the first circuit. [Figure 12] Second explanatory diagram of the continuity path in the wiring box of the first circuit. [Figure 13] A schematic diagram of a modified wiring box for the first circuit. [Figure 14] A first explanatory diagram of the conductive path in a modified example of the wiring box for the first circuit. [Figure 15] Second explanatory diagram of the conduction path of a modified example of the wiring box of the first circuit. [Figure 16] Layout diagram of the second circuit. [Figure 17] Circuit diagram of the second circuit. [Figure 18] Explanatory diagram of the conduction path of the second circuit. [Figure 19] Schematic configuration diagram of the wiring box of the second circuit. [Figure 20] Arrangement diagram of the solar cell module and the wiring box of the second circuit. [Figure 21] First explanatory diagram of the conduction path of the wiring box of the second circuit. [Figure 22] Second explanatory diagram of the conduction path of the wiring box of the second circuit. [Figure 23] Third explanatory diagram of the conduction path of the wiring box of the second circuit. [Figure 24] Schematic configuration diagram of a modified example of the wiring box of the second circuit. [Figure 25] First explanatory diagram of the conduction path of a modified example of the wiring box of the second circuit. [Figure 26] Second explanatory diagram of the conduction path of a modified example of the wiring box of the second circuit. [Figure 27] Third explanatory diagram of the conduction path of a modified example of the wiring box of the second circuit. [Figure 28] Circuit diagram of the photovoltaic power generation system in the first embodiment. [Figure 29] Plan view of the conversion box. [Figure 30] Schematic configuration diagram of the conversion box. [Figure 31] Circuit diagram of the second circuit of the photovoltaic power generation system in a modified example of the first embodiment. [Figure 32] Circuit diagram of the second circuit of the photovoltaic power generation system in the second embodiment. [Figure 33] Circuit diagram of the second circuit of the photovoltaic power generation system in a modified example of the second embodiment. [Figure 34] Arrangement diagram of the components of the photovoltaic power generation system in a modified example of the second embodiment. [Figure 35]Wiring diagram for a series connection of multiple solar cell modules. [Figure 36] An explanatory diagram showing how a solar power generation system is installed on a guardrail. [Figure 37] A schematic diagram of the solar cell module in the third embodiment. [Figure 38] Layout diagram of the third circuit. [Figure 39] Circuit diagram of the third circuit. [Figure 40] A schematic diagram of the solar cell module in the first modified example of the third embodiment. [Figure 41] Circuit diagram of the fourth circuit. [Figure 42] A schematic diagram of the solar cell module in the fourth embodiment. [Figure 43] Circuit diagram of the 6th circuit. [Figure 44] A schematic diagram of the solar cell module in the first modified example of the fourth embodiment. [Figure 45] Circuit diagram of the 7th circuit. [Modes for carrying out the invention]

[0009] The solar power generation system of this embodiment will be described below with reference to the drawings. The photovoltaic power generation system 80 (see Figure 28) includes circuits 50, 60, which include solar cell modules 1 and wiring boxes 40, a conversion box 70, and a power converter 81.

[0010] Figure 1 is a schematic diagram of the solar cell module 1. The left side of Figure 1 is a plan view, and the right side of Figure 1 is a side cross-sectional view along line II. The solar cell module 1 includes a base member 2, a cover member 8, and a sealing material 5. The solar cell module 1 also includes a solar cell element 10, lead wires 11, 12, connection wires 21, 22, linking wires 31-34, and connectors P, Q.

[0011] In this application, the X, Y, and Z directions of the Cartesian coordinate system are defined as follows: The Z direction is the thickness direction of the solar cell element 10. The X direction is the direction in which the connecting wires 21, 22 and the linking wires 31-34 extend. The Y direction is the direction in which the connecting wires 21, 22 and the linking wires 31-34 are aligned.

[0012] The base member 2 and the cover member 8 are made of a light-transmitting resin sheet or glass substrate, etc. The base member 2 is positioned on the -Z side, which is the rear side of the solar cell module 1. The cover member 8 is positioned on the +Z side, which is the front side of the solar cell module 1.

[0013] The encapsulant 5 is formed from a resin material or the like that has light-transmitting and electrical insulating properties. The encapsulant 5 is positioned between the base member 2 and the cover member 8 in the Z direction. The encapsulant 5 is formed together with the solar cell element 10, the lead wires 11, 12, the connection wires 21, 22, and the linking wires 31-34 using a semiconductor process.

[0014] The solar cell element 10 has a semiconductor layer. The semiconductor layer includes perovskite semiconductors, transparent cuprous oxide (Cu2O) semiconductors, silicon, etc. Perovskite semiconductors contain at least a portion of a perovskite structure. The perovskite structure is one of the crystal structures and is the same crystal structure as perovskite. Typically, the perovskite structure consists of ions A, B and X and is represented by the following general formula (1). ABX3... (1)

[0015] For A, primary ammonium ions can be used. Specifically, CH3NH3 + , C2H5NH3 + , C3H7NH3 + , C4H9NH3 + , and HC(NH2)2 + These include CH3NH3 + This is preferable, but not limited to this. Also, A is Cs + , Rb +, 1,1,1-Trifluoroethylammonium iodide (FEAI) is also preferred, but not limited thereto. As B, divalent metal ions such as Pb 2+ or Sn 2+ etc. are available, but not limited thereto. As X, halide ions such as Cl - , Br - or I - etc. are available. The materials constituting ions A, B or X may be single or mixed respectively. The constituent ions do not necessarily have to match the stoichiometric ratio of ABX3 to function.

[0016] The solar cell element 10 has a positive electrode 10p and a negative electrode 10n. The positive electrode 10p and the negative electrode 10n are disposed at the Y-direction ends of the solar cell element 10. The positive electrode 10p is disposed at the +Y side end of the solar cell element 10, and the negative electrode 10n is disposed at the -Y side end. The positive electrode 10p and the negative electrode 10n are formed over the entire X direction of the solar cell element 10. The lead-out wirings 11, 12, the connection wirings 21, 22 and the connection wirings 31 - 34 are formed of a metal material having conductivity such as aluminum (Al) or copper (Cu).

[0017] The connection wirings 21, 22 extend in the X direction. The connection wirings 21, 22 are the positive electrode connection wiring 21 and the negative electrode connection wiring 22. The positive electrode connection wiring 21 and the negative electrode connection wiring 22 are arranged side by side in the Y direction. The positive electrode connection wiring 21 is disposed on the +Y side, and the negative electrode connection wiring 22 is disposed on the -Y side. The connection wirings 21, 22 are disposed on the +Y side of the solar cell element 10. The connection wirings 21, 22 are disposed on the -Z side of the solar cell element 10.

[0018] The lead-out wirings 11, 12 are the positive electrode lead-out wiring 11 and the negative electrode lead-out wiring 12. The positive electrode lead-out wiring 11 extends from the X-direction end of the positive electrode 10p to the +Y side and the -Z side and is connected to the positive electrode connection wiring 21. The negative electrode lead-out wiring 12 extends from the X-direction end of the negative electrode 10n to the -Z side and the +Y side and is connected to the negative electrode connection wiring 22.

[0019] The solar cell module 1 has a bypass diode 26. The bypass diode 26 is formed across the positive electrode connection wiring 21 and the negative electrode connection wiring 22. The bypass diode 26 bypasses the solar cell element 10 and allows current to flow when the solar cell element 10 fails. The bypass diode 26 may also be formed across the positive electrode lead wiring 11 and the negative electrode lead wiring 12. The solar cell module 1 may also have a fuse or a reverse current prevention diode 27 (hereinafter referred to as fuse 27). The fuse 27 is formed in the connection wiring 21, 22 or the lead wiring 11, 12. The fuse 27 cuts the wiring when a large current flows through it.

[0020] The connecting wires 31-34 extend in the X direction. There are three or more connecting wires 31-34, for example, four. The connecting wires 31-34 are the first connecting wire 31, the second connecting wire 32, the third connecting wire 33, and the fourth connecting wire 34. The connecting wires 31-34 are arranged in the Y direction. The first connecting wire 31, the second connecting wire 32, the third connecting wire 33, and the fourth connecting wire 34 are arranged in this order from the -Y side to the +Y side. The connecting wires 31-34 are located on the +Y side of the connecting wires 21 and 22. The connecting wires 31-34 are located on the -Z side of the solar cell element 10.

[0021] Connectors P and Q are arranged in multiple locations, for example, in two locations. Connector P is located at the -X end of the solar cell module 1, and connector Q is located at the +X end of the solar cell module 1. Connectors P and Q are located at the tip of the flexible substrate 16. The flexible substrate 16 extends outward in the X direction from the base member 2, the sealing material 5, and the cover member 8. The connection wires 21, 22 and the connecting wires 31-34 pass through the flexible substrate 16 and extend to connectors P and Q. Connectors P and Q connect the connection wires 21, 22 and the connecting wires 31-34 to the outside. Connector P has connection terminals (battery connection terminals) on the -X side of the connection wires 21, 22 and the connecting terminals (battery connection terminals) on the -X side of the connecting wires 31-34. Connector Q has connection terminals (battery connection terminals) on the +X side of the connection wires 21, 22 and the connecting terminals (battery connection terminals) on the +X side of the connecting wires 31-34.

[0022] Figure 2 is a schematic diagram of a modified example of the solar cell module 1. The left side of Figure 2 is a plan view, and the right side of Figure 2 is a side cross-sectional view along line II-II. In the modified example, the connecting wires 31-34 and the solar cell elements 10 are arranged to overlap when viewed from the Z direction. The connecting wires 31-34 are located in the middle of the solar cell elements 10 in the Y direction. Similarly, the connecting wires 21 and 22 are located in the middle of the solar cell elements 10 in the Y direction. The connecting wires 21 and 22 and the lead wires 11 and 12 are formed separately on both sides of the solar cell elements 10 in the X direction. The connecting wires 21 and 22 may be formed continuously in the X direction.

[0023] In a modified version of the solar cell module 1, the connecting wires 31-34 and / or the connecting wires 21,22 and the solar cell element 10 are arranged to overlap when viewed from the Z direction. The connecting wires 31-34 and / or the connecting wires 21,22 are positioned in the middle of the solar cell element 10 in the Y direction. This allows the solar cell module 1 to be miniaturized in the Y direction.

[0024] Figure 3 is a plan view of the wiring box 40. Figure 4 is a perspective view of the wiring box 40 with the top cover 42 removed. Figure 5 is a cross-sectional view along the VV line in Figure 3. The wiring box 40 forms a circuit by connecting multiple solar cell modules 1 in series and in parallel. The wiring box 40 has a case 40c, an upper substrate 44, a lower substrate 45, and multiple wiring connectors AD.

[0025] The case 40c is formed from a resin material or the like. The case 40c has a rectangular shape in plan view, for example, a square shape. The case 40c has a case body 41 and a top lid 42.

[0026] The case body 41 is formed in the shape of a rectangular box. The top of the case body 41 is open. The case body 41 has a pair of mounting plates 41f. The pair of mounting plates 41f are positioned at the bottom of the case body 41. The pair of mounting plates 41f are positioned outside both ends of one of the pair of diagonals of the case 40c, which is rectangular in plan view.

[0027] The top cover 42 is formed in a plate shape. The top cover 42 closes the upper opening of the case body 41. The top cover 42 is fixed to the case body 41 by fastening members such as screws. The fastening members are arranged at the four corners of the case 40c, which is rectangular in plan view. The top cover 42 has a pair of mounting plates 42f. The pair of mounting plates 42f are arranged on the outside of both ends of the other diagonal of the pair of diagonals of the case 40c, which is rectangular in plan view.

[0028] Case 40c is fixed to the outside by fasteners such as screws at the positions of the pair of mounting plates 41f and the pair of mounting plates 42f. In a plan view, the pair of mounting plates 41f and the pair of mounting plates 42f do not overlap. This makes it easier to handle the tools used to install the fasteners.

[0029] The upper substrate 44 and the lower substrate 45 are formed from a resin material or the like. The upper substrate 44 and the lower substrate 45 are rectangular in shape in a plan view, for example, square. The upper substrate 44 and the lower substrate 45 are housed inside the case 40c and are spaced apart vertically. The upper substrate 44 is positioned on the upper side, and the lower substrate 45 is positioned on the lower side.

[0030] The wiring box 40 has internal wiring 40w. The internal wiring 40w can constitute the circuit of the photovoltaic power generation system. The internal wiring 40w includes a wiring pattern. The wiring pattern is formed from a conductive metal material such as copper (Cu) or aluminum (Al). The internal wiring 40w may include diodes 46 and 47. Diodes 46 and 47 are bypass diodes 46 and / or reverse current blocking diodes 47. The internal wiring 40w is formed on the upper surfaces of the upper substrate 44 and the lower substrate 45. If the internal wiring 40w of the wiring box 40 includes diodes 46 and 47, the diodes 26 and 27 of the solar cell module 1 may be omitted.

[0031] Multiple wiring connectors AD are, for example, four wiring connectors AD. The four wiring connectors AD are arranged on the four sides of case 40c. The four wiring connectors AD are a first wiring connector A, a second wiring connector B, a third wiring connector C, and a fourth wiring connector D. The first wiring connector A and the third wiring connector C are arranged on opposite sides of each other. The second wiring connector B and the fourth wiring connector D are arranged on opposite sides of each other.

[0032] The first wiring connector A is positioned across the inside and outside of the case 40c. Inside the case 40c, the first wiring connector A is connected to the internal wiring 40w. Outside the case 40c, the first wiring connector A is connected to the solar cell module 1 via a first intermediate cable 95, which will be described later. The first wiring connector A has an upper connecting portion Au and a lower connecting portion Ad. The upper connecting portion Au is positioned on the upper side, and the lower connecting portion Ad is positioned on the lower side. The second wiring connector B, the third wiring connector C, and the fourth wiring connector D are formed in the same manner as the first wiring connector A.

[0033] The upper and lower connecting sections have five or more connecting sections in the lateral direction (eight in the example in Figure 4). As described later, the upper connecting section of the wiring connector AD has two connection terminals (wiring box connection terminals) and / or three or more connecting terminals (wiring box connection terminals). The lower connecting section of the wiring connector AD has three or more connecting terminals. Two of the connection terminals can be connected to the positive and negative terminals (battery connection terminals) of the solar cell module 1. Three or more of the connecting terminals can be connected to three or more connecting terminals (battery connection terminals) of the solar cell module 1.

[0034] Figure 6 is a layout diagram of the first circuit 50. The wiring box 40 is used in the configuration of the first circuit 50. The solar cell modules 91-93 of the first circuit 50 are the same as the solar cell module 1 described above. The first circuit 50 is a circuit in which the first unit α and the second unit β are connected in parallel. The first unit α and the second unit β are units in which three solar cell modules 91-93 are connected in series.

[0035] Figure 7 is a circuit diagram of the first circuit 50. The first unit α and the second unit β are arranged in this order from the -R side to the +R side. Each unit α, β is formed by alternately connecting solar cell modules 91-93 and wiring boxes 40. The wiring box 40 includes three types of wiring patterns as internal wiring 40w: a first wiring pattern 51, a second wiring pattern 52, and a third wiring pattern 53. The first wiring pattern 51 is connected to the +R side of the solar cell module 91, which is located at the -R end of the unit. The second wiring pattern 52 is connected to the +R side of the solar cell module 92, which is located in the middle of the R direction within the unit. The third wiring pattern 53 is connected to the +R side of the solar cell module 93, which is located at the +R end of the unit.

[0036] The configuration of the first wiring pattern 51 is as follows: The positive terminal 21a on the -R side is connected to the first connecting terminal 31b on the +R side. The second connecting terminal 32a on the -R side is connected to the second connecting terminal 32b on the +R side. The third connecting terminal 33a on the -R side is connected to the third connecting terminal 33b on the +R side by wiring 33c. The negative terminal 22a on the -R side is connected to wiring 33c. The negative terminal 22a on the -R side is connected to the anode side of the bypass diode 46. The positive terminal 21a on the +R side is connected to the cathode side of the bypass diode 46. The other terminals are terminated.

[0037] The configuration of the second wiring pattern 52 is as follows: The negative terminal 22a on the -R side is connected to the first connecting terminal 31a on the -R side. The positive terminal 21a on the -R side is connected to the first connecting terminal 31b on the +R side. The second connecting terminal 32a on the -R side is connected to the second connecting terminal 32b on the +R side. The third connecting terminal 33a on the -R side is connected to the third connecting terminal 33b on the +R side. The negative terminal 22a on the -R side is connected to the anode side of the bypass diode 46. The positive terminal 21a on the +R side is connected to the cathode side of the bypass diode 46. The other terminals are terminated.

[0038] The configuration of the third wiring pattern 53 is as follows: The negative terminal 22a on the -R side is connected to the first connecting terminal 31a on the -R side. The second connecting terminal 32a on the -R side is connected to the second connecting terminal 32b on the +R side by wiring 32c. The positive terminal 21a on the -R side is connected to wiring 32c via the reverse current prevention diode 47. The third connecting terminal 33a on the -R side is connected to the third connecting terminal 33b on the +R side. The negative terminal 22a on the -R side is connected to the anode side of the bypass diode 46. The positive terminal 21a on the +R side is connected to the cathode side of the bypass diode 46. The other terminals are terminated.

[0039] The first unit α and the second unit β are configured similarly. The second unit β is connected to the +R side of the first unit α. The positive output terminal 50p and negative output terminal 50n of the first circuit 50 are located on the solar cell module 91, which is positioned at the -R side end of the first unit α. The -R side connection terminal of the second connection wiring 32 of the solar cell module 91 becomes the positive output terminal 50p of the first circuit 50. The -R side connection terminal of the third connection wiring 33 of the solar cell module 91 becomes the negative output terminal 50n of the first circuit 50.

[0040] Figure 8 is an explanatory diagram of the conduction path of the first circuit 50. In Figure 8, the conduction path of the first circuit 50 is shown by a thick dashed line. In the first circuit 50 shown in Figure 7, the conduction path shown in Figure 8 is formed. This realizes the layout of the first circuit 50 shown in Figure 6.

[0041] In the first circuit 50 shown in Figure 7, the number of solar cell modules 92 connected in series within each unit α and β increases by adding a second wiring pattern 52 along with a solar cell module 92 in the middle of the R direction within each unit α and β. In the first circuit 50, the number of units connected in parallel increases by adding another unit to the +R side of the second unit β. In this way, the number of solar cell modules connected in series and in parallel can be freely adjusted in the first circuit 50.

[0042] The first circuit 50 utilizes only three of the four connecting wires 31-34, specifically connecting wires 31-33. In the first circuit 50, multiple solar cell modules are connected in series and parallel without the use of external DC cables. Therefore, the cost of the solar power generation system can be reduced.

[0043] Figure 9 is a schematic diagram of the wiring box 40 of the first circuit 50. The left side of Figure 9 is the top surface of the upper board 44, and the right side is the top surface of the lower board 45. In Figure 9, four wiring connectors A and D are shown in four directions on the upper board 44 and the lower board 45. For the fourth wiring connector D, the upper connecting portion Du is shown on the side furthest from the upper board 44 and the lower board 45, and the lower connecting portion Dd is shown on the side closer to the upper board 44 and the lower board 45. The upper and lower connecting portions of the first wiring connector A, the second wiring connector B, and the third wiring connector C are shown in the same way as the upper connecting portion Du and lower connecting portion Dd of the fourth wiring connector D.

[0044] The upper substrate 44 and the lower substrate 45 have a first wiring pattern 51, a second wiring pattern 52, and a third wiring pattern 53 formed on them. The main part of each wiring pattern 51-53 is formed on the upper substrate 44, and the remainder is formed on the lower substrate 45.

[0045] The first wiring pattern 51 of the upper board 44 is connected to the upper connecting portion Au of the first wiring connector A. The upper connecting portion Au of the first wiring connector A includes the negative terminal 22a and positive terminal 21a on the -R side of the first wiring pattern 51 shown in Figure 7, as well as the second connecting terminal 32a and the third connecting terminal 33a. The first wiring pattern 51 of the upper board 44 and the first wiring pattern 51 of the lower board 45 are connected by wiring 32c-34c. The first wiring pattern 51 of the lower board 45 is connected to the lower connecting portion Cd of the third wiring connector C. The lower connecting portion Cd of the third wiring connector C includes the first connecting terminal 31b, the second connecting terminal 32b, and the third connecting terminal 33b on the +R side of the first wiring pattern 51 shown in Figure 7.

[0046] The second wiring pattern 52 of the upper board 44 is connected to the upper connecting portion Du of the fourth wiring connector D. The upper connecting portion Du of the fourth wiring connector D includes the negative terminal 22a and positive terminal 21a on the -R side of the second wiring pattern 52 shown in Figure 7, as well as the first connecting terminal 31a, the second connecting terminal 32a, and the third connecting terminal 33a. The second wiring pattern 52 of the upper board 44 and the second wiring pattern 52 of the lower board 45 are connected by wiring 32c-34c. The second wiring pattern 52 of the lower board 45 is connected to the lower connecting portion Bd of the second wiring connector B. The lower connecting portion Bd of the second wiring connector B includes the first connecting terminal 31b, the second connecting terminal 32b, and the third connecting terminal 33b on the +R side of the second wiring pattern 52 shown in Figure 7.

[0047] The third wiring pattern 53 of the upper board 44 is connected to the upper connecting portion Bu of the second wiring connector B. The upper connecting portion Bu of the second wiring connector B includes the negative terminal 22a and positive terminal 21a on the -R side of the third wiring pattern 53 shown in Figure 7, as well as the first connecting terminal 31a, the second connecting terminal 32a, and the third connecting terminal 33a. The third wiring pattern 53 of the upper board 44 and the third wiring pattern 53 of the lower board 45 are connected by wiring 32c and 33c. The third wiring pattern 53 of the lower board 45 is connected to the lower connecting portion Dd of the fourth wiring connector D. The lower connecting portion Dd of the fourth wiring connector D includes the second connecting terminal 32b and the third connecting terminal 33b on the +R side of the second wiring pattern 52 shown in Figure 7.

[0048] Figure 10 is a layout diagram of the solar cell modules 91-93 and the wiring box 40 of the first circuit 50. The wiring patterns 51-53 of the first circuit 50 shown in Figure 7 are realized by selecting the wiring connectors A and D of the wiring box 40 shown in Figure 10. The first wiring pattern 51 is realized by connecting the first wiring connector A to the -R side solar cell module 91 and the third wiring connector C to the +R side solar cell module 92. The second wiring pattern 52 is realized by connecting the fourth wiring connector D to the -R side solar cell module 92 and the second wiring connector B to the +R side solar cell module 93. The third wiring pattern 53 is realized by connecting the second wiring connector B to the -R side solar cell module 93 and the fourth wiring connector D to the +R side solar cell module 91. The wiring pattern 53 at the +R side end of the first circuit 50 can be realized without connecting the fourth wiring connector D to other solar cell modules.

[0049] Figure 11 is the first explanatory diagram of the conductive path in the wiring box 40 of the first circuit 50. Figure 12 is the second explanatory diagram of the conductive path in the wiring box 40 of the first circuit 50. The first circuit 50 is formed by connecting the upper, middle, and lower diagrams of Figure 11 and the upper, middle, and lower diagrams of Figure 12 in this order. In Figures 11 and 12, the conductive path is shown by a thick dashed line.

[0050] The connector P of the solar cell modules 91-93 is located on the -R side, and the connector Q is located on the +R side. Connectors P and Q have upper connecting sections Pu and Qu and lower connecting sections Pd and Qd. In Figures 11 and 12, the upper connecting sections Pu and Qu are shown on the side furthest from the center in the R direction of the solar cell modules 91-93, and the lower connecting sections Pd and Qd are shown on the side closer to the center. The upper connecting sections Pu and Qu and the lower connecting sections Pd and Qd have five or more connecting sections in the lateral direction. Connector P has connection terminals 21p and 22p on the -R side and connecting terminals 31p-33p on the -R side. Each terminal of connector P is set to the upper connecting section Pu. Connector Q has connection terminals 21q and 22q on the +R side and connecting terminals 31q-33q on the +R side. Each terminal of connector Q is set to the lower connecting section Qd.

[0051] A first intermediate cable 95 is positioned between the solar cell modules 91-93 and the wiring box 40. The length of the first intermediate cable 95 in the R direction is set to correspond to the distance between the solar cell modules 91-93 and the wiring box 40 in the R direction. Similar to the solar cell module 1, the first intermediate cable 95 has two connecting wires (intermediate connecting wires) and three or more connecting wires (intermediate connecting wires) formed on it.

[0052] The first intermediate cable 95 has intermediate connectors (not shown) at both ends in the R direction. The intermediate connector has an upper connecting section and a lower connecting section. The upper and lower connecting sections have five or more connecting sections in the lateral direction. The connecting sections of the intermediate connector are plugs (pins, male). In contrast, the connecting sections of connectors P and Q of the aforementioned solar cell modules 91-93 and the connecting sections of wiring connector AD of the wiring box 40 are jacks (sockets, receptacles, female).

[0053] The first intermediate cable 95 is connected to the -R side solar cell modules 91-93 and the +R side wiring box 40 as follows: The -R side intermediate connector of the first intermediate cable 95 is connected to the +R side connector Q of the -R side solar cell modules 91-93. The +R side intermediate connector of the first intermediate cable 95 is connected to the -R side wiring connector AD of the +R side wiring box 40. The first intermediate cable 95 connects the connection terminal and / or coupling terminal formed on the lower connection part Qd of connector Q to the connection terminal and / or coupling terminal formed on the upper connection part Au-Du of wiring connector AD.

[0054] The first intermediate cable 95 is connected to the wiring box 40 on the -R side and the solar cell modules 91-93 on the -R side as follows: The intermediate connector on the -R side of the first intermediate cable 95 is connected to the wiring connector AD on the +R side of the wiring box 40 on the -R side. The intermediate connector on the +R side of the first intermediate cable 95 is connected to the connector P on the -R side of the solar cell modules 91-93 on the +R side. The first intermediate cable 95 connects the connection terminal and / or connection terminal formed on the lower connection portion Ad-Dd of wiring connector AD to the connection terminal and / or connection terminal formed on the upper connection portion Qu of connector P.

[0055] As described above, the solar cell modules 91-93 and the wiring box 40 are connected via the first intermediate cable 95. In this application, the connection of the solar cell modules 91-93 and the wiring box 40 via the first intermediate cable 95 may be simply referred to as the connection of the solar cell modules 91-93 and the wiring box 40.

[0056] In the upper diagram of Figure 11, the wiring box 40 has a first wiring connector A connected to the -R side solar cell module 91, and a third wiring connector C connected to the +R side solar cell module 92. This connects the pair of solar cell modules 91 and 92 via the first wiring pattern 51 of the wiring box 40.

[0057] In the wiring box 40 shown in the middle diagram of Figure 11, the fourth wiring connector D is connected to the -R side solar cell module 92, and the second wiring connector B is connected to the +R side solar cell module 93. This connects the pair of solar cell modules 92 and 93 via the second wiring pattern 52 of the wiring box 40.

[0058] In the lower diagram of Figure 11, the wiring box 40 has a second wiring connector B connected to the -R side solar cell module 93 and a fourth wiring connector D connected to the +R side solar cell module 91. This connects the pair of solar cell modules 93 and 91 via the third wiring pattern 53 of the wiring box 40.

[0059] As shown in Figure 11, the first unit α of the first circuit 50 is formed by connecting the solar cell modules 91-93 and the wiring box 40. In Figure 12, as in Figure 11, the solar cell modules 91-93 and the wiring box 40 are connected. However, the fourth wiring connector D of the wiring box 40 in the lower part of Figure 12 is not connected to any other solar cell module. This forms the second unit β of the first circuit 50.

[0060] With the above steps, the first circuit 50 is completed. In Figures 11 and 12, a conductive path is formed in the first circuit 50, indicated by a thick dashed line. This realizes the conductive path of the first circuit 50 shown in Figure 8, and the layout of the first circuit 50 shown in Figure 6.

[0061] Figure 13 is a schematic diagram of a modified wiring box 40 for the first circuit 50. It is also possible to implement the first circuit 50 shown in Figure 7 by using the modified wiring box 40 shown in Figure 13 instead of the wiring box 40 shown in Figure 9. With the modified wiring box 40, it is also possible to implement the wiring patterns 51-53 of the first circuit 50 by selecting wiring connector AD as shown in Figure 10.

[0062] The wiring box 40 shown in Figure 9 has three bypass diodes 46 corresponding to the solar cell modules 91-93 connected to the wiring connector AD. In contrast, the modified wiring box 40 shown in Figure 13 has only one bypass diode 46 shared by the solar cell modules 91-93 connected to the wiring connector AD. Explanations of the modified wiring box 40 that are similar to the wiring box 40 shown in Figure 9 may be omitted.

[0063] As shown in the left diagram of Figure 13, the upper connecting portion Au of the first wiring connector A is provided with a negative terminal 22a, a positive terminal 21a, a third connecting terminal 33a, and a second connecting terminal 32a. The connections between the terminals of the first wiring connector A and the terminals of the upper board 44 are as follows: The negative terminal 22a is connected to terminal b. The positive terminal 21a is connected to terminal a. The third connecting terminal 33a is connected to terminal c. The second connecting terminal 32a is connected to terminal d.

[0064] The upper connecting section Bu of the second wiring connector B is provided with a negative terminal 22a and a positive terminal 21a, as well as a third connecting terminal 33a, a second connecting terminal 32a, and a first connecting terminal 31a. The connections between the terminals of the second wiring connector B and the terminals of the upper board 44 are as follows: The negative terminal 22a is connected to terminal m. The positive terminal 21a is connected to terminal k. The third connecting terminal 33a is connected to terminal n. The second connecting terminal 32a is connected to terminal p. The first connecting terminal 31a is connected to terminal q.

[0065] The upper connecting portion Cu of the third wiring connector C is provided with a negative terminal 22a and a positive terminal 21a. The connections between the terminals of the third wiring connector C and the terminals of the upper board 44 are as follows: The negative terminal 22a is connected to terminal s. The positive terminal 21a is connected to terminal r.

[0066] The upper connecting section Du of the fourth wiring connector D is provided with a negative terminal 22a and a positive terminal 21a, as well as a third connecting terminal 33a, a second connecting terminal 32a, and a first connecting terminal 31a. The connections between the terminals of the fourth wiring connector D and the terminals of the upper board 44 are as follows: The negative terminal 22a is connected to terminal f. The positive terminal 21a is connected to terminal e. The third connecting terminal 33a is connected to terminal g. The second connecting terminal 32a is connected to terminal h. The first connecting terminal 31a is connected to terminal j.

[0067] On the upper substrate 44, terminal b connected to the negative terminal 22a of each wiring connector AD, and terminals m, s, and f connected to the positive terminal 21a of each wiring connector AD are connected to the anode side of the bypass diode 46. Terminals a, k, r, and e are connected to the cathode side of the bypass diode 46. As a result, the solar cell modules 91-93 connected to the wiring connector AD share one bypass diode 46.

[0068] As shown in the right-hand diagram of Figure 13, the lower connecting section Bd of the second wiring connector B is equipped with a third connecting terminal 33b, a second connecting terminal 32b, and a first connecting terminal 31b. The connections between the terminals of the second wiring connector B and the terminals of the lower board 45 are as follows: The third connecting terminal 33b is connected to terminal S. The second connecting terminal 32b is connected to terminal E. The first connecting terminal 31b is connected to terminal F.

[0069] The lower connecting section Cd of the third wiring connector C is equipped with a third connecting terminal 33b, a second connecting terminal 32b, and a first connecting terminal 31b. The connections between the terminals of the third wiring connector C and the terminals of the lower board 45 are as follows: The third connecting terminal 33b is connected to terminal M. The second connecting terminal 32b is connected to terminal N. The first connecting terminal 31b is connected to terminal R.

[0070] The lower connecting section Dd of the fourth wiring connector D is equipped with a third connecting terminal 33b and a second connecting terminal 32b. The connections between the terminals of the fourth wiring connector D and the terminals of the lower board 45 are as follows: The third connecting terminal 33b is connected to terminal G. The second connecting terminal 32b is connected to terminal H.

[0071] The terminals of the upper board 44 and the terminals of the lower board 45 are connected by the following wiring: Terminal t and terminal T are connected by wiring tT. Terminal u and terminal U are connected by wiring uU. Terminal v and terminal V are connected by wiring vV. ​​Terminal w and terminal W are connected by wiring wW. Terminal x and terminal X are connected by wiring xX. Terminal y and terminal Y are connected by wiring yY. Terminal z and terminal Z are connected by wiring zZ.

[0072] In the modified wiring box 40 shown in Figure 13, the wiring patterns 61-63 shown in Figure 7 are formed, as will be explained below. The following explanation corresponds to the order of the explanation regarding the configuration of the wiring patterns 51-53 in Figure 7. In the following explanation, the connection terminals and linking terminals corresponding to each terminal of the upper board 44 or lower board 45 are shown in parentheses.

[0073] The first wiring pattern 51 is formed between the first wiring connector A and the third wiring connector C as follows: Terminal a (21a) is connected to terminal R (31b) via wiring xX. Terminal d (32a) is connected to terminal N (32b) via wiring wW. Terminal c (33a) is connected to terminal M (33b) via wiring vV. ​​Terminal b (22a) is connected to wiring vV via terminal c.

[0074] The second wiring pattern 52 is formed between the fourth wiring connector D and the second wiring connector B as follows: Terminal f(22a) and terminal j(31a) are connected. Terminal e(21a) is connected to terminal F(31b) via wiring xX. Terminal h(32a) is connected to terminal E(32b) via wiring tT. Terminal g(33a) is connected to terminal S(33b) via wiring uU.

[0075] The third wiring pattern 53 is formed between the second wiring connector B and the fourth wiring connector D as follows: Terminal m (22a) and terminal q (31a) are connected. Terminal p (32a) is connected to terminal H (32b) via wiring zZ. Terminal k (21a) is connected to wiring zZ via reverse current prevention diode 47. Terminal n (33a) is connected to terminal G (33b) via wiring yY.

[0076] Figure 14 is the first explanatory diagram of the conductive path in a modified example of the wiring box 40 of the first circuit 50. Figure 15 is the second explanatory diagram of the conductive path in a modified example of the wiring box 40 of the first circuit 50. The first circuit 50 shown in Figure 7 is formed by connecting the upper, middle, and lower diagrams of Figure 14 and the upper, middle, and lower diagrams of Figure 15 in this order. In Figures 14 and 15, the conductive path is indicated by a thick dashed line.

[0077] As shown in Figure 14, the first unit α of the first circuit 50 is formed by connecting the solar cell modules 91-93 and the modified wiring box 40. As shown in Figure 15, the second unit β of the first circuit 50 is formed by connecting the solar cell modules 91-93 and the modified wiring box 40.

[0078] With the above steps, the first circuit 50 is completed. In Figures 14 and 15, a conductive path is formed in the first circuit 50, indicated by a thick dashed line. This realizes the conductive path of the first circuit 50 shown in Figure 8, and the layout of the first circuit 50 shown in Figure 6.

[0079] Figure 16 is a layout diagram of the second circuit 60. The wiring box 40 is used in the configuration of the second circuit 60. The solar cell modules 91 and 92 of the second circuit 60 are the same as those of the solar cell module 1 described above. The second circuit 60 is a circuit in which the first unit α, the second unit β, and the third unit γ are connected in series. The first unit α, the second unit β, and the third unit γ are units in which two solar cell modules 91 and 92 are connected in parallel.

[0080] Figure 17 is the circuit diagram of the second circuit 60. The first unit α, the second unit β, and the third unit γ are arranged in this order from the -R side to the +R side. Each unit α, β, and γ is formed by alternately connecting solar cell modules 91 and 92 and wiring boxes 40. The wiring box 40 contains three types of wiring patterns as internal wiring 40w: the first wiring pattern 61, the second wiring pattern 62, and the third wiring pattern 63. The second wiring pattern 62 is connected to the +R side of the solar cell module 91 located at the -R end of the first unit α. The first wiring pattern 61 is connected to the +R side of the other solar cell module 92 in the first unit α. The solar cell modules 91 and 92 and wiring patterns 61 and 62 located in the second unit β are the same as those in the first unit α. The third wiring pattern 63 is connected to the +R side of the solar cell module 93 located at the -R end of the third unit γ. The first wiring pattern 61 is connected to the +R side of the solar cell module 92, which is located at the +R side end of the third unit γ.

[0081] The configuration of the second wiring pattern 62 is as follows: The positive terminal 21a on the -R side is connected to the first terminal 31b on the +R side via the reverse current prevention diode 47. The second terminal 32a on the -R side and the second terminal 32b on the +R side are connected. The third terminal 33a on the -R side and the third terminal 33b on the +R side are connected by wiring 33c. The negative terminal 22a on the -R side is connected to wiring 33c. The negative terminal 22a on the -R side is connected to the anode side of the bypass diode 46. The positive terminal 21a on the +R side is connected to the cathode side of the bypass diode 46. The other terminals are terminated.

[0082] The configuration of the first wiring pattern 61 is as follows: The negative terminal 22a on the -R side is connected to the third terminal 33a on the -R side. The first terminal 31a on the -R side is connected to the third terminal 33b on the +R side by wiring 34c. The positive terminal 21a on the -R side is connected to wiring 34c via the reverse current prevention diode 47. The second terminal 32a on the -R side is connected to the second terminal 32b on the +R side. The negative terminal 22a on the -R side is connected to the anode side of the bypass diode 46. The positive terminal 21a on the +R side is connected to the cathode side of the bypass diode 46. The other terminals are terminated.

[0083] The configuration of the third wiring pattern 63 is as follows: The second connection terminal 32a on the -R side and the first connection terminal 31b on the +R side are connected by wiring 34c. The positive connection terminal 21a on the -R side is connected to wiring 34c via a reverse current prevention diode 47. The third connection terminal 33a on the -R side and the third connection terminal 33b on the +R side are connected by wiring 33c. The negative connection terminal 22a on the -R side is connected to wiring 33c. The negative connection terminal 22a on the -R side is connected to the anode side of the bypass diode 46. The positive connection terminal 21a on the +R side is connected to the cathode side of the bypass diode 46. The other terminals are terminated.

[0084] The positive output terminal 60p and negative output terminal 60n of the second circuit 60 are located on the solar cell module 91, which is positioned at the -R side end of the first unit α. The -R side connection terminal of the second connection wiring 32 of the solar cell module 91 becomes the positive output terminal 60p of the second circuit 60. The -R side connection terminal of the third connection wiring 33 of the solar cell module 91 becomes the negative output terminal 60n of the second circuit 60.

[0085] Figure 18 is an explanatory diagram of the conduction path of the second circuit 60. In Figure 18, the conduction path of the second circuit 60 is shown by a thick dashed line. In the second circuit 60 shown in Figure 17, the conduction path shown in Figure 18 is formed. This realizes the layout of the second circuit 60 shown in Figure 16.

[0086] In the second circuit 60 shown in Figure 17, the number of solar cell modules 91 connected in parallel within each unit α, β, and γ increases by adding a solar cell module 91 along with a second wiring pattern 62 in the intermediate section of each unit α, β, and γ. In the second circuit 60, the number of units connected in series increases by adding a unit with the same configuration as the second unit β between the first unit α and the second unit β. In this way, the number of solar cell modules connected in parallel and in series can be freely adjusted in the second circuit 60.

[0087] The second circuit 60 utilizes only three of the four connecting wires 31-33 of the four connecting wires 31-34 of the solar cell modules 91 and 92. In the second circuit 60, multiple solar cell modules are connected in parallel and in series without using external DC cables. Therefore, the cost of the solar power generation system can be reduced.

[0088] Figure 19 is a schematic diagram of the wiring box 40 of the second circuit 60. The left side of Figure 19 is the top surface of the upper board 44, and the right side is the top surface of the lower board 45. In Figure 19, four wiring connectors AD are shown in the four directions of the upper board 44 and the lower board 45. The upper substrate 44 and the lower substrate 45 have a first wiring pattern 61, a second wiring pattern 62, and a third wiring pattern 63 formed on them. The main part of each wiring pattern 61-63 is formed on the upper substrate 44, and the remainder is formed on the lower substrate 45.

[0089] The first wiring pattern 61 of the upper board 44 is connected to the upper connecting portion Au of the first wiring connector A. The upper connecting portion Au of the first wiring connector A includes the negative terminal 22a and positive terminal 21a on the -R side of the first wiring pattern 61 shown in Figure 17, as well as the first connecting terminal 31a, the second connecting terminal 32a, and the third connecting terminal 33a. The first wiring pattern 61 of the upper board 44 and the first wiring pattern 61 of the lower board 45 are connected by wiring 32c and 34c. The first wiring pattern 61 of the lower board 45 is connected to the lower connecting portion Cd of the third wiring connector C. The lower connecting portion Cd of the third wiring connector C includes the second connecting terminal 32b and the third connecting terminal 33b on the +R side of the first wiring pattern 61 shown in Figure 17.

[0090] The second wiring pattern 62 of the upper board 44 is connected to the upper connecting portion Du of the fourth wiring connector D. The upper connecting portion Du of the fourth wiring connector D includes the negative terminal 22a and positive terminal 21a on the -R side of the second wiring pattern 62 shown in Figure 17, as well as the second connecting terminal 32a and the third connecting terminal 33a. The second wiring pattern 62 of the upper board 44 and the second wiring pattern 62 of the lower board 45 are connected by wiring 31c-33c. The second wiring pattern 62 of the lower board 45 is connected to the lower connecting portion Bd of the second wiring connector B. The lower connecting portion Bd of the second wiring connector B includes the first connecting terminal 31b, the second connecting terminal 32b, and the third connecting terminal 33b on the +R side of the second wiring pattern 62 shown in Figure 17.

[0091] The third wiring pattern 63 of the upper board 44 is connected to the upper connecting portion Bu of the second wiring connector B. The upper connecting portion Bu of the second wiring connector B includes the negative terminal 22a and positive terminal 21a on the -R side of the third wiring pattern 63 shown in Figure 17, as well as the second connecting terminal 32a and the third connecting terminal 33a. The third wiring pattern 63 of the upper board 44 and the third wiring pattern 63 of the lower board 45 are connected by wiring 33c and 34c. The third wiring pattern 63 of the lower board 45 is connected to the lower connecting portion Dd of the fourth wiring connector D. The lower connecting portion Dd of the fourth wiring connector D includes the first connecting terminal 31b and the third connecting terminal 33b on the +R side of the second wiring pattern 62 shown in Figure 17.

[0092] Figure 20 is a layout diagram of the solar cell modules 91 and 92 and the wiring box 40 of the second circuit 60. The wiring patterns 61-63 of the second circuit 60 shown in Figure 17 are realized by selecting the wiring connectors A and D of the wiring box 40 shown in Figure 20. The second wiring pattern 62 is realized by connecting the fourth wiring connector D to the -R side solar cell module 91 and the second wiring connector B to the +R side solar cell module 92. The first wiring pattern 61 is realized by connecting the first wiring connector A to the -R side solar cell module 92 and the third wiring connector C to the +R side solar cell module 91. The third wiring pattern 63 is realized by connecting the second wiring connector B to the -R side solar cell module 91 and the fourth wiring connector D to the +R side solar cell module 92. The wiring pattern 61 at the +R side end of the second circuit 60 can be realized without connecting the third wiring connector C to another solar cell module.

[0093] Figure 21 is the first explanatory diagram of the conductive path in the wiring box 40 of the second circuit 60. Figure 22 is the second explanatory diagram, and Figure 23 is the third explanatory diagram. The second circuit 60 is formed by connecting the upper and lower diagrams of Figure 21, the upper and lower diagrams of Figure 22, and the upper and lower diagrams of Figure 23 in this order. In Figures 21-23, the conductive path is shown by a thick dashed line.

[0094] In the upper diagram of Figure 21, the wiring box 40 has a fourth wiring connector D connected to the -R side solar cell module 91, and a second wiring connector B connected to the +R side solar cell module 92. This connects the pair of solar cell modules 91 and 92 via the second wiring pattern 62 of the wiring box 40.

[0095] In the lower diagram of Figure 21, the wiring box 40 has a first wiring connector A connected to the -R side solar cell module 92 and a third wiring connector C connected to the +R side solar cell module 91. This connects the pair of solar cell modules 92 and 91 via the first wiring pattern 61 of the wiring box 40.

[0096] As shown in Figure 21, the first unit α of the second circuit 60 is formed by connecting the solar cell modules 91 and 92 and the wiring box 40. In Figure 22, as in Figure 21, the solar cell modules 91 and 92 and the wiring box 40 are connected. This forms the second unit β of the second circuit 60.

[0097] In the upper diagram of Figure 23, the wiring box 40 has a second wiring connector B connected to the -R side solar cell module 91, and a fourth wiring connector D connected to the +R side solar cell module 92. This connects the pair of solar cell modules 93 and 91 via the third wiring pattern 63 of the wiring box 40.

[0098] In the lower diagram of Figure 23, the solar cell modules 92 and 91 and the wiring box 40 are connected, similar to the lower diagram of Figure 21. However, the third wiring connector C of the wiring box 40 in the lower diagram of Figure 23 is not connected to any other solar cell module. This forms the third unit γ of the second circuit 60.

[0099] With the above steps, the second circuit 60 is completed. In Figure 21-23, a conductive path is formed in the second circuit 60, indicated by a thick dashed line. This realizes the conductive path of the second circuit 60 shown in Figure 18, and the layout of the second circuit 60 shown in Figure 16.

[0100] Figure 24 is a schematic diagram of a modified wiring box 40 for the second circuit 60. It is also possible to implement the second circuit 60 shown in Figure 17 by using the modified wiring box 40 shown in Figure 24 instead of the wiring box 40 shown in Figure 19. With the modified wiring box 40, it is also possible to implement the wiring patterns 61-63 of the second circuit 60 by selecting wiring connector AD as shown in Figure 20.

[0101] The wiring box 40 shown in Figure 19 is equipped with three bypass diodes 46 and three reverse current blocking diodes 47, corresponding to the solar cell modules 91 and 92 connected to the wiring connector AD. In contrast, the modified wiring box 40 shown in Figure 24 is equipped with only one bypass diode 46 and one reverse current blocking diode 47, which are shared by the solar cell modules 91 and 92 connected to the wiring connector AD. Explanations of the modified version that are similar to the wiring box 40 shown in Figure 19 may be omitted.

[0102] As shown in the left diagram of Figure 24, the upper connecting portion Au of the first wiring connector A is provided with a negative terminal 22a and a positive terminal 21a, as well as a third connecting terminal 33a, a second connecting terminal 32a, and a first connecting terminal 31a. The connections between the terminals of the first wiring connector A and the terminals of the upper board 44 are as follows: The negative terminal 22a is connected to terminal b. The positive terminal 21a is connected to terminal a. The third connecting terminal 33a is connected to terminal c. The second connecting terminal 32a is connected to terminal d. The first connecting terminal 31a is connected to terminal e.

[0103] The upper connecting section Bu of the second wiring connector B is provided with a negative terminal 22a, a positive terminal 21a, a third connecting terminal 33a, and a second connecting terminal 32a. The connections between the terminals of the second wiring connector B and the terminals of the upper board 44 are as follows: The negative terminal 22a is connected to terminal n. The positive terminal 21a is connected to terminal m. The third connecting terminal 33a is connected to terminal p. The second connecting terminal 32a is connected to terminal q.

[0104] The upper connecting portion Cu of the third wiring connector C is provided with a negative terminal 22a and a positive terminal 21a. The connections between the terminals of the third wiring connector C and the terminals of the upper board 44 are as follows: The negative terminal 22a is connected to terminal s. The positive terminal 21a is connected to terminal r.

[0105] The upper connecting section Du of the fourth wiring connector D is provided with a negative terminal 22a, a positive terminal 21a, a third connecting terminal 33a, and a second connecting terminal 32a. The connections between the terminals of the fourth wiring connector D and the terminals of the upper board 44 are as follows: The negative terminal 22a is connected to terminal g. The positive terminal 21a is connected to terminal f. The third connecting terminal 33a is connected to terminal h. The second connecting terminal 32a is connected to terminal j.

[0106] On the upper substrate 44, terminals b, n, s, and g, which are connected to the negative terminal 22a of each wiring connector AD, are connected to the anode side of the bypass diode 46. Terminals a, m, r, and f, which are connected to the positive terminal 21a of each wiring connector AD, are connected to the cathode side of the bypass diode 46. As a result, the solar cell modules 91 and 92 connected to the wiring connector AD share a single bypass diode 46.

[0107] On the upper substrate 44, terminals a, m, r, and f, which are connected to the positive terminal 21a of each wiring connector AD, are connected to the anode side of the reverse current blocking diode 47. The cathode side of the reverse current blocking diode 47 is connected to a wiring or terminal described later. As a result, the solar cell modules 91 and 92 connected to the wiring connector AD share one reverse current blocking diode 47.

[0108] As shown in the right-hand diagram of Figure 24, the lower connecting section Bd of the second wiring connector B is equipped with a third connecting terminal 33b, a second connecting terminal 32b, and a first connecting terminal 31b. The connections between the terminals of the second wiring connector B and the terminals of the lower board 45 are as follows: The third connecting terminal 33b is connected to terminal R. The second connecting terminal 32b is connected to terminal S. The first connecting terminal 31b is connected to terminal E.

[0109] The lower connecting section Cd of the third wiring connector C is equipped with a third connecting terminal 33b and a second connecting terminal 32b. The connections between the terminals of the third wiring connector C and the terminals of the lower board 45 are as follows: The third connecting terminal 33b is connected to terminal M. The second connecting terminal 32b is connected to terminal N.

[0110] The lower connecting section Dd of the fourth wiring connector D is equipped with a third connecting terminal 33b and a first connecting terminal 31b. The connections between the terminals of the fourth wiring connector D and the terminals of the lower board 45 are as follows: The third connecting terminal 33b is connected to terminal F. The first connecting terminal 31b is connected to terminal H.

[0111] The terminals of the upper board 44 and the terminals of the lower board 45 are connected by the following wiring: Terminal t and terminal T are connected by wiring tT. Terminal u and terminal U are connected by wiring uU. Terminal v and terminal V are connected by wiring vV. ​​Terminal w and terminal W are connected by wiring wW.

[0112] In the modified wiring box 40 shown in Figure 24, the wiring patterns 61-63 shown in Figure 17 are formed, as will be explained below. The following explanation corresponds to the order of the explanation regarding the configuration of the wiring patterns 61-63 in Figure 17. In the following explanation, the connection terminals and linking terminals corresponding to each terminal of the upper board 44 or lower board 45 are shown in parentheses.

[0113] The second wiring pattern 62 is formed between the fourth wiring connector D and the second wiring connector B as follows: Terminal f (21a) is connected to terminal E (31b) via the reverse current prevention diode 47 and wiring vV. ​​Terminal j (32a) is connected to terminal S (32b) via wiring uU. Terminal h (33a) is connected to terminal R (33b) via wiring wW. Terminal g (22a) is connected to wiring wW via terminal h.

[0114] The first wiring pattern 61 is formed between the first wiring connector A and the third wiring connector C as follows: Terminal b (22a) is connected to terminal c (33a) via terminals h and w. Terminal e (31a) is connected to terminal M (33b) via wiring vV. ​​Terminal a (21a) is connected to wiring vV via reverse current prevention diode 47. Terminal d (32a) is connected to terminal N (32b) via wiring uU.

[0115] The third wiring pattern 63 is formed between the second wiring connector B and the fourth wiring connector D as follows: Terminal q (32a) is connected to terminal H (31b) via wiring vV. ​​Terminal p (33a) is connected to terminal F (33b) via terminal h, wiring wW, and terminal R. Terminal n (22a) is connected to wiring wW via terminal h.

[0116] Figure 25 is the first explanatory diagram of the conductive path in a modified example of the wiring box 40 of the second circuit 60. Figure 26 is the second explanatory diagram, and Figure 27 is the third explanatory diagram. The second circuit 60 shown in Figure 17 is formed by connecting the upper and lower diagrams of Figure 25, the upper and lower diagrams of Figure 26, and the upper and lower diagrams of Figure 27 in this order. In Figures 25-27, the conductive path is shown by a thick dashed line.

[0117] As shown in Figure 25, the first unit α of the second circuit 60 is formed by connecting the solar cell modules 91 and 92 and the modified wiring box 40. As shown in Figure 26, the second unit β of the second circuit 60 is formed by connecting the solar cell modules 91 and 92 and the modified wiring box 40. As shown in Figure 27, the third unit γ of the second circuit 60 is formed by connecting the solar cell modules 91 and 92 and the modified wiring box 40.

[0118] With the above steps, the second circuit 60 is completed. In Figure 25-27, a conductive path is formed in the second circuit 60, indicated by a thick dashed line. This realizes the conductive path of the second circuit 60 shown in Figure 18, and the layout of the second circuit 60 shown in Figure 16.

[0119] (First Embodiment) Figure 28 is a circuit diagram of a photovoltaic power generation system 80 in the first embodiment. The photovoltaic power generation system 80 includes circuits 50, 60 including a solar cell module 1 and a wiring box 40, a conversion box 70, and a power converter 81.

[0120] Figure 29 is a plan view of the conversion box 70. The conversion box 70 comprises a case 70c, a circuit board 75, a cable connector 78, and a plurality of conversion connectors JL. Case 70c is the same as case 40c of the aforementioned wiring box 40. The material and shape of the circuit board 75 are the same as those of the upper circuit board 44 or lower circuit board 45 of the wiring box 40 described above. The circuit board 75 is housed inside the case 70c.

[0121] The cable connector 78 is a DC cable connector such as MC4 (Multi-Contact 4). The cable connector 78 is located on one of the four sides of the case 70c. Multiple conversion connectors JL are, for example, three conversion connectors JL. The three conversion connectors JL are arranged on the remaining three sides of the four sides of case 70c. The three conversion connectors JL are the first conversion connector J, the second conversion connector K, and the third conversion connector L. The cable connector 78 and the second conversion connector K are arranged on opposite sides of each other. The first conversion connector J and the third conversion connector L are arranged on opposite sides of each other.

[0122] Figure 30 is a schematic diagram of the conversion box 70. The conversion box 70 has internal wiring 70w. The internal wiring 70w is formed on the upper surface of the substrate 75. The internal wiring 70w includes positive electrode wiring 73 and negative electrode wiring 74. The cable connector 78 includes a positive cable connector 78p and a negative cable connector 78n. The positive cable connector 78p is connected to the positive wiring 73, and the negative cable connector 78n is connected to the negative wiring 74.

[0123] The second conversion connector K has an upper connecting portion Ku and a lower connecting portion Kd. The upper connecting portion Ku is located on the upper side, and the lower connecting portion Kd is located on the lower side. In Figure 30, the upper connecting portion Ku is shown on the side farther from the substrate 75, and the lower connecting portion Kd is shown on the side closer to the substrate 75. The upper connecting portion Ku and the lower connecting portion Kd have two or more connecting portions (six in the example of this embodiment) in the lateral direction.

[0124] The lower connecting section Kd is equipped with two connecting terminals (conversion box connecting terminals) 76 and 77. The two connecting terminals 76 and 77 can be connected to two connecting terminals (battery connecting terminals) of the solar cell module 1, which are the positive and negative output terminals of circuits 50 and 60. The two connecting terminals 76 and 77 are connected to the corresponding positive and negative wiring 73 and 74.

[0125] The upper connecting section Ku is equipped with two connection terminals (conversion box connection terminals) 71 and 72. The two connection terminals 71 and 72 can be connected to the positive and negative connection terminals (battery connection terminals) of the solar cell module 1. The two connection terminals 71 and 72 are connected to the corresponding positive wiring 73 and negative wiring 74.

[0126] It is desirable that the upper connecting section Ku and the lower connecting section Kd have four or more connecting sections in the lateral direction. In this case, the positions of the two connecting terminals 71 and 72 in the upper connecting section Ku and the positions of the two connecting terminals 76 and 77 in the lower connecting section Kd can be offset in the lateral direction. The first conversion connector J and the third conversion connector L are formed in the same manner as the second conversion connector K.

[0127] As shown in Figure 28, the positive and negative output terminals of circuits 50 and 60 are connected to the two connecting terminals 76 and 77 of the conversion box 70 via a third intermediate cable 97. Two connecting wires (intermediate connecting wires) are formed on the third intermediate cable 97. The third intermediate cable 97 has third intermediate connectors (not shown) at both ends in the R direction. The third intermediate connector on the +R side of the third intermediate cable 97 is connected to the -R side connector P of the solar cell module 91 at the -R side end of circuits 50 and 60. The third intermediate connector on the -R side of the third intermediate cable 97 is connected to the second conversion connector K of the conversion box 70. The third intermediate cable 97 connects the positive and negative output terminals located on the upper connecting portion Pu of connector P to the connecting terminals 76 and 77 located on the lower connecting portion Kd of the second conversion connector K.

[0128] The cable connector 78 of the conversion box 70 is connected to the power converter 81 via the fourth intermediate cable 98. The fourth intermediate cable 98 connects the positive cable connector 78p and the negative cable connector 78n separately to the power converter 81. The power converter 81 converts the direct current generated by the solar cell modules of circuits 50 and 60 into alternating current. The power converter 81 then provides the converted alternating current to the user. The solar power generation system 80 is configured as described above.

[0129] In the example shown in Figure 28, circuits 50 and 60 are connected to the second conversion connector K of the conversion box 70. Alternatively, circuits 50 and 60 may be connected to the first conversion connector J or the third conversion connector L of the conversion box 70. This allows the connection direction of the power converter 81 to circuits 50 and 60 to be changed.

[0130] Figure 31 is a circuit diagram of the second circuit 60 of the photovoltaic power generation system in a modified example of the first embodiment. Descriptions of the modified example that are similar to the first embodiment may be omitted. There are several methods for increasing the number of solar cell modules 1 included in the second circuit 60. One method, as mentioned above, is to add a combination of solar cell modules 91 and the second wiring pattern 62 of the wiring box 40 to the intermediate part in the R direction of units α, β, and γ shown in Figure 17. This increases the number of solar cell modules connected in parallel within units α, β, and γ. The same applies to the first circuit 50 as to the second circuit 60.

[0131] The second circuit 60 shown in Figure 31 is a modified version of the second circuit 60 shown in Figure 17. In Figure 31, the single solar cell module 91 located at the -R end is replaced by multiple solar cell modules 91a, 91b, and 91c. These multiple solar cell modules 91a, 91b, and 91c are interconnected via the aforementioned first intermediate cable 95. This connects the multiple solar cell modules 91a, 91b, and 91c in parallel. In other words, the method shown in Figure 31 allows for an increase in the number of solar cell modules connected in parallel within units α, β, and γ of the second circuit 60. The first circuit 50 is similar to the second circuit 60.

[0132] (Second Embodiment) Figure 32 is a circuit diagram of the second circuit 60 of the photovoltaic power generation system 80 in the second embodiment. In the second embodiment, the conversion box 70 is used to connect the solar cell modules branched from the wiring box 40. Descriptions of the second embodiment that are the same as the first embodiment may be omitted.

[0133] In the second circuit 60 of Figure 17, the wiring patterns 61, 62, and 63 of the multiple wiring boxes 40 are connected in the R direction via solar cell modules 91 and 92. As a result, the second circuit 60 extends in a single line in the R direction. In contrast, in the second circuit 60 of Figure 32, the wiring patterns 61, 62, and 63 of the multiple wiring boxes 40 are connected in the R direction via a second intermediate cable 96.

[0134] The second intermediate cable 96 has three or more connecting wires (intermediate connecting wires) formed on it. The second intermediate cable 96 has second intermediate connectors (not shown) at both ends in the R direction. The second intermediate connectors of the second intermediate cable 96 are connected to the wiring connectors AD of the corresponding wiring box 40. The second intermediate cable 96 connects the connecting terminals 31a-33a on the -R side of the wiring box 40 located in the +R direction to the connecting terminals 31b-33b on the +R side of the wiring box 40 located in the -R direction. In this way, adjacent wiring boxes 40 in the R direction are connected via the second intermediate cable 96.

[0135] The direction perpendicular to the R direction is defined as the S direction. In the second circuit 60 of Figure 32, the solar cell 94 is connected to the wiring box 40 in the S direction via the conversion box 70. For example, the conversion box 70 is positioned in the S direction of the wiring box 40 located at the -R end of the second circuit 60.

[0136] The wiring box 40 and the conversion box 70 are connected by the aforementioned third intermediate cable 97. The third intermediate connector on the -S side of the third intermediate cable 97 is connected to the fourth wiring connector D on the -R side of the wiring box 40. The third intermediate connector on the +S side of the third intermediate cable 97 is connected to the second conversion connector K on the -S side of the conversion box 70. The third intermediate cable 97 connects the connection terminals 21a and 22a located on the fourth wiring connector D to the connection terminals 71 and 72 located on the upper connecting part Ku of the second conversion connector K.

[0137] In the wiring box 40 located at the -R end in Figure 32, the fourth wiring connector D is located on the -R side, and the first wiring connector A is located on the +S side. In the wiring box 40 of the modified second embodiment shown in Figure 24, connection terminals 21a and 22a are provided for all four wiring connectors AD. In this case, the third intermediate connector on the -S side of the third intermediate cable 97 can be connected to the first wiring connector A on the +S side of the wiring box 40. This increases the flexibility in the installation of the third intermediate cable 97 and the solar cell 94.

[0138] A standard solar cell 94 is placed on the +S side of the conversion box 70. The solar cell 94 has only connection terminals (positive and negative terminals) and no connecting wiring or terminals. The cable connector 78 of the conversion box 70 is connected to the connection terminals of the solar cell 94. As a result, the connection terminals of the solar cell 94 are connected to the connection terminals 21a and 22a of the wiring box 40 via the conversion box 70.

[0139] The same applies to the wiring boxes 40 other than the one located at the -R end of the second circuit 60. As a result, the second circuit 60 forms a conductive path similar to that shown in Figure 18.

[0140] As described above, in the second circuit 60 of Figure 32, multiple wiring boxes 40 are arranged in a line in the R direction, and the solar cells 94 are arranged branching out in the S direction. The first circuit 50 is the same as the second circuit 60.

[0141] In the example shown in Figure 32, the wiring box 40 is connected to the second conversion connector K of the conversion box 70. Alternatively, the wiring box 40 may be connected to the first conversion connector J or the third conversion connector L of the conversion box 70. This allows the connection direction of the solar cell 94 to the wiring box 40 to be changed.

[0142] Figure 33 is a circuit diagram of the second circuit 60 of the photovoltaic power generation system 80 in a modified example of the second embodiment. In this modified example of the second embodiment, multiple solar cell modules are arranged on the +S side of the conversion box 70. Descriptions of the modified example that are similar to the second embodiment may be omitted.

[0143] Similar to the second embodiment, the wiring box 40 and the conversion box 70 are connected by a third intermediate cable 97. In the modified example shown in Figure 33, the third intermediate connector on the +S side of the third intermediate cable 97 is connected to the third conversion connector L of the conversion box 70. The connection terminals 21a and 22a located on the fourth wiring connector D of the wiring box 40 and the connection terminals 71 and 72 located on the upper connecting portion Ku of the third conversion connector L are connected by the third intermediate cable 97.

[0144] The solar cell module 91a is connected to the +S side of the conversion box 70 via the third intermediate cable 97. The third intermediate connector on the -S side of the third intermediate cable 97 is connected to the first conversion connector J of the conversion box 70. The third intermediate connector on the +S side of the third intermediate cable 97 is connected to the connector Q on the -S side of the solar cell module 91a. The connection terminals 71 and 72 set on the first conversion connector J and the connection terminals 21q and 22q set on connector Q are connected by the third intermediate cable 97.

[0145] Solar cell module 91b is connected to the +S side of solar cell module 91a via a third intermediate cable 97. The connection terminals 21p and 22p set on connector P of solar cell module 91a and the connection terminals 21q and 22q set on connector Q of solar cell module 91b are connected via the third intermediate cable 97.

[0146] Similarly, solar cell module 91c is connected to the +S side of solar cell module 91b via the third intermediate cable 97. Thereafter, other solar cell modules are similarly connected to the solar cell modules at the +S end via the third intermediate cable 97. The same applies to the wiring boxes 40 other than the wiring box 40 located at the -R end of the second circuit 60.

[0147] In the second circuit 60 shown in Figure 33, multiple solar cell modules are connected to the +S side of the wiring box 40 via a conversion box 70. The multiple solar cell modules are connected in parallel. The method shown in Figure 33 allows for an increase in the number of solar cell modules connected in parallel within units α, β, and γ of the second circuit 60. The first circuit 50 is the same as the second circuit 60. Alternatively, multiple solar cell modules may be connected to the +S side of the wiring box 40 via only the third intermediate cable 97, without using the conversion box 70.

[0148] In the second circuit 60 shown in Figure 33, multiple wiring boxes 40 are arranged in a line in the R direction. Multiple solar cell modules 1 are arranged by branching out in the S direction from each wiring box 40. Figure 34 is an arrangement diagram of the components of a photovoltaic power generation system 80 in a modified example of the second embodiment. The photovoltaic power generation system 80 in Figure 34 is constructed using the second circuit 60 in Figure 33. In this photovoltaic power generation system 80, multiple solar cell modules 91 and 92 are arranged two-dimensionally in the R and S directions. The multiple solar cell modules 91 and 92 are mounted on a wall surface such as a curtain wall. It is possible to arrange as many solar cell modules 91 and 92 as possible in a given space, thereby increasing the amount of power generated.

[0149] Figure 35 is a wiring diagram of multiple solar cell modules 1 connected in series. The negative terminal of the solar cell module 1 on the -S side and the positive terminal of the solar cell module 1 on the +S side are connected in order. This connects multiple solar cell modules 1 in series. It is also possible to replace the multiple solar cell modules connected in parallel shown in Figure 33 with the multiple solar cell modules connected in series shown in Figure 35. This makes it possible to increase the number of solar cell modules connected in series within units α, β, and γ of the second circuit 60. The same applies to the first circuit 50 as to the second circuit 60.

[0150] Figure 36 is an explanatory diagram of how the solar power generation system 80 is installed on the guardrail 85. In Figure 36, the first unit α of the first circuit 50 of the solar power generation system 80 is installed on the side of the guardrail 85. In the upper diagram of Figure 36, solar cell modules 91, 92, and 93 are arranged horizontally with space between them. A wiring box 40 is placed between adjacent solar cell modules 91, 92, and 93.

[0151] In contrast, in the lower diagram of Figure 36, the solar cell modules 91, 92, and 93 are arranged closely together without any gaps between them. A groove extending horizontally is formed in the vertical center of the side of the guardrail 85. The wiring box 40 is located behind the solar cell modules 91, 92, and 93 and is housed in the groove of the guardrail 85. This makes it possible to arrange many solar cell modules on the side of the guardrail 85, thereby increasing the amount of power generated. The second circuit 60 is the same as the first circuit 50.

[0152] As detailed above, the photovoltaic power generation system 80 of the embodiment includes a solar cell module 1, a wiring box 40, and a conversion box 70. The solar cell module 1 has battery connection terminals which are positive and negative terminals, and battery connection terminals which are terminals for three or more connecting wires 31-34. The wiring box 40 has a plurality of wiring connectors AD and internal wiring 40w. The plurality of wiring connectors AD include wiring box connection terminals which can be connected to the battery connection terminals and wiring box connection terminals which can be connected to the battery connection terminals. The internal wiring 40w can configure circuits 50, 60 which combine series and parallel connections of the solar cell modules 1. The conversion box 70 has conversion box connection terminals 76, 77 which can be connected to the battery connection terminals, and a cable connector 78 which can be connected to the power converter 81. With this configuration, the circuits 50 and 60 of the photovoltaic power generation system can be configured using only one type of wiring box 40 and conversion box 70. Therefore, the cost of the photovoltaic power generation system 80 can be reduced.

[0153] The solar power generation system 80 can increase the number of combinations of solar cell modules 1 and wiring boxes 40. The solar power generation system 80 can replace one solar cell module 1 with multiple interconnected solar cell modules 1. The solar power generation system 80 can increase the number of solar cell modules 1 connected to the wiring box connection terminals via conversion boxes 70. This configuration allows for increasing the number of solar cell modules 1 in various ways. Even when increasing the number of solar cell modules 1 connected in parallel, no special DC cables are required. Therefore, the cost of the solar power generation system 80 can be reduced.

[0154] The conversion box 70 comprises a case 70c and three conversion connectors JL. The case 70c is rectangular in plan view. The three conversion connectors JL are equipped with conversion box connection terminals 71, 72 and conversion box linking terminals 76, 77 that can be connected to the battery connection terminals. Of the four sides of the case 70c, three conversion connectors JL are arranged corresponding to three sides, and a cable connector 78 is arranged on one side. With this configuration, the connection direction of the power converter 81 to circuits 50 and 60 can be changed by selecting the conversion connector JL of the conversion box 70 connected to circuits 50 and 60.

[0155] According to at least one embodiment described above, the system comprises a solar cell module 1, a wiring box 40, and a conversion box 70. This helps to reduce the cost of the solar power generation system 80.

[0156] (Third embodiment) Figure 37 is a schematic diagram of the solar cell module 1s in the third embodiment. The left side of Figure 37 is a plan view, and the right side of Figure 37 is a side cross-sectional view along the line S37-S37. The solar cell module 1s in the third embodiment includes a positive electrode connection wire 21 and a negative electrode connection wire 22, two connecting wires 31 and 32, and connectors P and Q.

[0157] The positive electrode connection wiring 21 is connected to the positive electrode of the solar cell element 10 via the lead wiring 11. The positive electrode connection wiring 21 is formed only on the +X side of the solar cell element 10. The negative electrode connection wiring 22 is connected to the negative electrode of the solar cell element 10 via the lead wiring 12. The negative electrode connection wiring 22 is formed only on the -X side of the solar cell element 10.

[0158] The connecting wires 31 and 32 are the first connecting wire 31 and the second connecting wire 32. The connecting wires 31 and 32 are not connected to the positive and negative electrodes of the solar cell element 10. The connecting wires 31 and 32 extend longer than the solar cell element 10 in the X direction. The connecting wires 31 and 32 are positioned so as to overlap the solar cell element 10 when viewed from the Z direction. The connecting wires 31 and 32 may be positioned so as not to overlap the solar cell element 10 when viewed from the Z direction. The connecting wires 31 and 32 are used for at least one of the series connection and parallel connection of the solar cell element 10.

[0159] Connectors P and Q are the first connector P and the second connector Q. The first connector P is located at the -X side end of the solar cell module 1s. The second connector Q is located at the +X side end of the solar cell module 1s.

[0160] Connectors P and Q have at least one of a positive terminal (battery positive terminal) 21q and a negative terminal (battery negative terminal) 22p, and connecting terminals (battery connecting terminals) 31p, 31q, 32p, and 32q. The positive terminal 21q connects the positive terminal wiring 21 to the outside. The negative terminal 22p connects the negative terminal wiring 22 to the outside. The connecting terminals 31p, 31q, 32p, and 32q connect the connecting wires 31 and 32 to the outside. The connecting terminals 31p, 31q, 32p, and 32q are the first connecting terminals 31p and 31q and the second connecting terminals 32p and 32q. The first connecting terminals 31p and 31q connect the first connecting wire 31 to the outside. The second connecting terminals 32p and 32q connect the second connecting wire 32 to the outside.

[0161] Connectors P and Q each have only one positive terminal 21q or one negative terminal 22p, one first connecting terminal 31p, 31q, and one second connecting terminal 32p, 32q. The first connector P has only one negative terminal 22p, one first connecting terminal 31p, and one second connecting terminal 32p. The second connector Q has only one positive terminal 21q, one first connecting terminal 31q, and one second connecting terminal 32q.

[0162] Figure 38 is a layout diagram of the third circuit 176. The third circuit 176 is a circuit in which the first unit A, the second unit B, and the third unit C are connected in series. The first unit A, the second unit B, and the third unit C are units in which two solar cell modules 91 and 92 are connected in series. The solar cell modules 91 and 92 of the third circuit 176 are the solar cell module 1s of the third embodiment.

[0163] Figure 39 is the circuit diagram of the third circuit 176. The first unit A, the second unit B, and the third unit C are arranged in this order from the -R side to the +R side. Each unit A, B, and C has two solar cell modules 91 and 92 and one wiring box 151 of one type.

[0164] The two solar cell modules 91 and 92 are connected without a wiring box. The second connector Q on the -R side of the +R side solar cell module 91 is connected to the first connector P on the +R side of the -R side solar cell module 92. As a result, the solar cell elements 10 of the two solar cell modules 91 and 92 are connected in series.

[0165] The wiring box 151 is positioned on the +R side of the two solar cell modules 91 and 92. The wiring box 151 has connectors on the -R side and the +R side. The connectors of the wiring box 151 have a positive terminal (wiring box positive terminal) 21a or a negative terminal (wiring box negative terminal) 22b, first connecting terminals (wiring box connecting terminals) 31a, 31b and second connecting terminals (wiring box connecting terminals) 32a, 32b.

[0166] The -R side connector of the wiring box 151 has only a negative terminal 22b, a first connection terminal 31b, and a second connection terminal 32b. The -R side connector of the wiring box 151 is connected to the +R side first connector P of the solar cell module 91. The +R side connector of the wiring box 151 has only a positive terminal 21a, a first connection terminal 31a, and a second connection terminal 32a. The +R side connector of the wiring box 151 is connected to the -R side second connector Q of the solar cell module 92 of the unit adjacent to the +R side.

[0167] The internal wiring configuration of the wiring box 151 is as follows: The positive terminal 21a on the +R side and the negative terminal 22b on the -R side are connected by wiring 20. The first connecting terminal 31a on the +R side is connected to wiring 20. Wiring 20 is connected to the first connecting terminal 31b on the -R side via a bypass diode 46. The second connecting terminal 32b on the -R side and the second connecting terminal 32a on the +R side are connected.

[0168] The third circuit 176 includes a termination connector W and a conversion box 170. The termination connector W is located on the -R side of the first unit A, which is at the -R end. The termination connector W has a positive terminal 21a, a first connecting terminal 31a, and a second connecting terminal 32a. The termination connector W is connected to the second connector Q on the -R side of the solar cell module 92 on the -R side of the first unit A. Inside the termination connector W, the positive terminal 21a, the first connecting terminal 31a, and the second connecting terminal 32a are interconnected.

[0169] The conversion box 170 is positioned on the +R side of the third unit C, which is located at the +R end. The first connection terminal 31a and the second connection terminal 32a on the +R side of the wiring box 151 of the third unit C are connected to the first connection terminal 31b and the second connection terminal 32b on the -R side of the conversion box 170, respectively. Inside the conversion box 170, the first connection terminal 31b on the -R side is connected to the first connection terminal 31a on the +R side. The second connection terminal 32b on the -R side is connected to the second connection terminal 32a on the +R side via a reverse current prevention diode 47. In the conversion box 170, the second connection terminal 32a on the +R side becomes the positive terminal of the third circuit 176, and the first connection terminal 31a on the +R side becomes the negative terminal of the third circuit 176. Based on the above, the layout of the third circuit 176 shown in Figure 38 is realized.

[0170] In the third circuit 176, multiple solar cell modules 91 and 92 are connected in series using two connecting wires 31 and 32. In the third circuit 176, the number of solar cell modules connected in series increases by adding a solar cell module 1s of the third embodiment between the two solar cell modules 91 and 92 in each unit A, B, and C. The number of solar cell modules in each unit A, B, and C corresponds to the number of solar cell modules bypassed by the bypass diode 46 of the wiring box 151.

[0171] Figure 40 is a schematic diagram of the solar cell module 1s in the first modified example of the third embodiment. The left side of Figure 40 is a plan view, and the right side of Figure 40 is a side cross-sectional view along the line S40-S40. The description of the first modified example that is similar to the third embodiment may be omitted.

[0172] In the first modified example, the solar cell module 1s has a bypass diode 26. The bypass diode 26 is positioned between the negative electrode on the -Y side of the solar cell element 10 and the lead wiring 11 of the positive electrode on the +Y side.

[0173] Figure 41 is the circuit diagram of the fourth circuit 177. The fourth circuit 177 implements the layout shown in Figure 6. The fourth circuit 177 is a circuit in which the first unit α and the second unit β are connected in parallel. The first unit α and the second unit β are circuits in which three solar cell modules 91, 92, and 93 are connected in series. The solar cell modules 91, 92, and 93 of the fourth circuit 177 are the solar cell module 1s of the first modified example.

[0174] As shown in Figure 41, the first unit α and the second unit β are arranged in this order from the -R side to the +R side. Each unit α and β has three solar cell modules 91, 92, and 93, and one wiring box of one type 152. The three solar cell modules 91, 92, and 93 are connected without going through the wiring box. As a result, the solar cell elements 10 of the three solar cell modules 91, 92, and 93 are connected in series.

[0175] The wiring box 152 is located on the +R side of the three solar cell modules 91, 92, and 93. The internal wiring configuration of the wiring box 152 is as follows: The first connection terminal 31a on the +R side and the first connection terminal 31b on the -R side are connected by wiring 31c. The negative terminal connection terminal 22b on the -R side is connected to wiring 31c. The second connection terminal 32b on the -R side and the second connection terminal 32a on the +R side are connected by wiring 32c. The positive terminal connection terminal 21a on the +R side is connected to wiring 32c.

[0176] The fourth circuit 177 includes a termination connector W and a conversion box 170. Inside the termination connector W, the positive terminal 21a and the second connecting terminal 32a are connected. The other terminals are terminated. Based on the above, the layout shown in Figure 6 is realized.

[0177] In the fourth circuit 177, multiple solar cell modules 91, 92, and 93 are connected in series and parallel using two connecting wires 31 and 32. In the fourth circuit 177, the number of solar cell modules connected in series within a unit increases by adding the solar cell module 1s of the first modified example to the middle part in the R direction within the unit. In the fourth circuit 177, multiple units are connected in parallel by placing one wiring box 152 of one type at the +R side end of the unit. In the fourth circuit 177, the number of units connected in parallel increases by adding another unit between the first unit α and the second unit β. In this way, the number of solar cell modules connected in series and parallel can be freely adjusted in the fourth circuit 177. The solar cell module 1s of the first modified example allows the fourth circuit 177 to be constructed without using external wiring. Therefore, the cost of the fourth circuit 177 can be reduced.

[0178] In the third embodiment and its first modification, multiple solar cell modules 1s can be connected in series without using a wiring box. Solar cell elements containing silicon semiconductors are often connected in series because they have high current and low voltage. The solar cell modules 1s of the third embodiment and its first modification are suitable for solar cell elements 10 containing silicon semiconductors.

[0179] Furthermore, 3-pin connectors can be used as connectors P and Q for the solar cell module 1s, which helps to reduce the cost of connectors P and Q. The wiring of the solar cell module 1s is simplified, which helps to reduce the cost of the solar cell module 1s. Furthermore, the number and types of wiring boxes can be reduced. Wiring within the wiring boxes can be simplified, and the wiring boxes themselves can be made smaller.

[0180] (Fourth Embodiment) Figure 42 is a schematic diagram of the solar cell module 1p in the fourth embodiment. The left side of Figure 42 is a plan view, and the right side of Figure 42 is a side cross-sectional view along line S42-S42. The solar cell module 1p in the fourth embodiment includes a positive electrode connection wire 21 and a negative electrode connection wire 22, a single connecting wire 31, and connectors P and Q. Descriptions of the fourth embodiment that are similar to the third embodiment may be omitted.

[0181] The positive electrode connection wiring 21 is connected to the positive electrode of the solar cell element 10 via the lead wiring 11. The positive electrode connection wiring 21 extends longer than the solar cell element 10 in the X direction. The positive electrode connection wiring 21 is positioned so as to overlap with the solar cell element 10 when viewed from the Z direction. The positive electrode connection wiring 21 may also be positioned so as not to overlap with the solar cell element 10 when viewed from the Z direction.

[0182] The negative electrode connection wiring 22 is connected to the negative electrode of the solar cell element 10 via the lead wiring 12. The negative electrode connection wiring 22 is formed separately on both sides of the solar cell element 10 in the X direction. The negative electrode connection wiring 22 may be formed continuously in the X direction, similar to the positive electrode connection wiring 21.

[0183] The connecting wire 31 is the first connecting wire 31. The first connecting wire 31 is not connected to the positive and negative electrodes of the solar cell element 10. The first connecting wire 31 extends longer than the solar cell element 10 in the X direction. The first connecting wire 31 is positioned so as to overlap with the solar cell element 10 when viewed from the Z direction. The first connecting wire 31 may be positioned so as not to overlap with the solar cell element 10 when viewed from the Z direction. The first connecting wire 31 is used for at least one of the series connection and parallel connection of the solar cell elements 10.

[0184] Connectors P and Q are the first connector P and the second connector Q. The first connector P is located at the -X end of the solar cell module 1p. The second connector Q is located at the +X end of the solar cell module 1p.

[0185] Connectors P and Q have positive terminals 21p and 21q, negative terminals 22p and 22q, and first connecting terminals 31p and 31q. The positive terminals 21p and 21q connect the positive terminal wiring 21 to the outside. The negative terminals 22p and 22q connect the negative terminal wiring 22 to the outside. The first connecting terminals 31p and 31q connect the first connecting wiring 31 to the outside.

[0186] Connectors P and Q each have only one positive terminal 21p, 21q, one negative terminal 22p, 22q, and one first connecting terminal 31p, 31q. The first connector P has only one negative terminal 22p, one positive terminal 21p, and one first connecting terminal 31p. The second connector Q has only one negative terminal 22q, one positive terminal 21q, and one first connecting terminal 31q.

[0187] Figure 43 is the circuit diagram of the fifth circuit 178. The fifth circuit 178 implements the layout shown in Figure 16. The fifth circuit 178 is a circuit in which the first unit γ, the second unit β, and the third unit α are connected in series. The first unit γ, the second unit β, and the third unit α are circuits in which two solar cell modules 91 and 92 are connected in parallel. The solar cell modules 91 and 92 of the fifth circuit 178 are the solar cell module 1p of the fourth embodiment.

[0188] As shown in Figure 43, the first unit γ, the second unit β, and the third unit α are arranged in this order from the -R side to the +R side. Each unit α, β, and γ has two solar cell modules 91 and 92 and one wiring box 161 of one type.

[0189] The two solar cell modules 91 and 92 are connected without a wiring box. The second connector Q on the -R side of the +R side solar cell module 91 is connected to the first connector P on the +R side of the -R side solar cell module 92. As a result, the solar cell elements 10 of the two solar cell modules 91 and 92 are connected in parallel.

[0190] The wiring box 161 is positioned on the +R side of the two solar cell modules 91 and 92. The wiring box 161 has connectors on the -R side and the +R side. The connectors of the wiring box 161 have positive terminals (wiring box positive terminals) 21a and 21b, negative terminals (wiring box negative terminals) 22a and 22b, and first connecting terminals (wiring box connecting terminals) 31a and 31b.

[0191] The -R side connector of the wiring box 161 has only a positive terminal 21b, a negative terminal 22b, and a first connecting terminal 31b. The -R side connector of the wiring box 161 is connected to the +R side first connector P of the solar cell module 91. The +R side connector of the wiring box 161 has only a positive terminal 21a, a negative terminal 22a, and a first connecting terminal 31a. The +R side connector of the wiring box 161 is connected to the -R side second connector Q of the -R side solar cell module 92 of the unit adjacent to the +R side.

[0192] The internal wiring configuration of the wiring box 161 is as follows: The positive terminal 21a on the +R side and the negative terminal 22b on the -R side are connected by wiring 22c. Wiring 22c is connected to the positive terminal 21b on the -R side via a bypass diode 46. The first connecting terminal 31b on the -R side and the first connecting terminal 31a on the +R side are connected.

[0193] The fifth circuit 178 includes a termination connector W and a conversion box 170. The termination connector W is located on the -R side of the first unit γ, which is at the -R end. The termination connector W has a positive electrode connection terminal 21a and a first connecting terminal 31a. The termination connector W is connected to the second connector Q on the -R side of the solar cell module 92 on the -R side of the first unit γ. Inside the termination connector W, the positive electrode connection terminal 21a and the first connecting terminal 31a are connected.

[0194] The conversion box 170 is positioned on the +R side of the third unit α, which is located at the +R end. The positive terminal 21a and first connecting terminal 31a on the +R side of the wiring box 161 of the third unit α are connected to the positive terminal 21b and first connecting terminal 31b on the -R side of the conversion box 170, respectively. Inside the conversion box 170, the positive terminal 21a on the +R side and the positive terminal 21b on the -R side are connected. The first connecting terminal 31b on the -R side is connected to the first connecting terminal 31a on the +R side via a reverse current prevention diode 47. In the conversion box 170, the first connecting terminal 31a on the +R side becomes the positive terminal of the fifth circuit 178, and the positive terminal 21a on the +R side becomes the negative terminal of the fifth circuit 178. Based on the above, the layout shown in Figure 16 is realized.

[0195] In the fifth circuit 178, multiple solar cell modules 91 and 92 are connected in parallel and in series using the first connecting wiring 31. In the fifth circuit 178, the number of solar cell modules connected in parallel within a unit increases by adding the solar cell module 1p of the fourth embodiment to the middle part in the R direction within the unit. In the fifth circuit 178, multiple units are connected in series by placing one wiring box 161 of one type at the +R side end of the unit. In the fifth circuit 178, the number of units connected in series increases by adding other units between each unit α, β, and γ. In this way, the number of solar cell modules connected in parallel and in series can be freely adjusted in the fifth circuit 178. The solar cell module 1p of the fourth embodiment allows the fifth circuit 178 to be constructed without using external wiring. Therefore, the cost of the fifth circuit 178 can be reduced.

[0196] Figure 44 is a schematic diagram of the solar cell module 1p in the first modified example of the fourth embodiment. The left side of Figure 44 is a plan view, and the right side of Figure 44 is a side cross-sectional view along the line S44-S44. The description of the first modified example in relation to the fourth embodiment may be omitted.

[0197] In the first modified example, the solar cell module 1p has a bypass diode 26. The bypass diode 26 is positioned between the positive electrode lead wire 11 and the negative electrode lead wire 12.

[0198] Figure 45 is the circuit diagram of the sixth circuit 179. The sixth circuit 179 implements the layout shown in Figure 16. The solar cell modules 91 and 92 of the sixth circuit 179 are the solar cell module 1p of the first modified example.

[0199] As shown in Figure 45, each unit α, β, and γ has one wiring box 162 of one type. The internal wiring configuration of the wiring box 162 is as follows: The positive terminal 21a on the +R side is connected to the negative terminal 22b on the -R side. The first connecting terminal 31b on the -R side is connected to the first connecting terminal 31a on the +R side. The other terminals are terminated. Based on the above, the layout shown in Figure 16 is realized.

[0200] In the sixth circuit 179, the number of solar cell modules connected in parallel within the unit is increased by adding the solar cell module 1p of the first modification to the middle part in the R direction within the unit. In the sixth circuit 179, multiple units are connected in series by placing one wiring box 162 of one type at the +R side end of the unit. The solar cell module 1p of the first modification allows the sixth circuit 179 to be constructed without using external wiring. Therefore, the cost of the sixth circuit 179 can be reduced.

[0201] In the fourth embodiment and its first modification, multiple solar cell modules 1p can be connected in parallel without using a wiring box. Solar cell elements, such as those containing transparent cuprous oxide (Cu2O) semiconductors or perovskite semiconductors, are often connected in parallel because they operate at high voltage and low current. The solar cell modules 1p of the fourth embodiment and its first modification are suitable for solar cell elements 10 containing transparent cuprous oxide (Cu2O) semiconductors or perovskite semiconductors.

[0202] Furthermore, 3-pin connectors can be used as connectors P and Q for solar cell module 1p, which helps to reduce the cost of connectors P and Q. The wiring of solar cell module 1p is simplified, which helps to reduce the cost of solar cell module 1p. Furthermore, the number and types of wiring boxes can be reduced. Wiring within the wiring boxes can be simplified, and the wiring boxes themselves can be made smaller.

[0203] While several embodiments of the present invention have been described, these embodiments are presented as examples only and are not intended to limit the scope of the invention. These embodiments can be carried out in a variety of other forms, and various omissions, substitutions, and modifications can be made without departing from the spirit of the invention. These embodiments and their variations are included in the scope and spirit of the invention, as well as in the claims and their equivalents. [Explanation of symbols]

[0204] A...First wiring connector (wiring connector), B...Second wiring connector (wiring connector), C...Third wiring connector (wiring connector), D...Fourth wiring connector (wiring connector), J...First conversion connector (conversion connector), K...Second conversion connector (conversion connector), L...Third conversion connector (conversion connector), 1, 91, 92, 93...Solar cell module, 21p, 21q...Positive electrode connection terminal (battery connection terminal), 22p, 22q...Negative electrode connection terminal (battery connection terminal), 31p, 31q...First linking terminal (battery connection terminal), 32p, 32q...Second linking terminal (battery connection terminal), 33p, 33q...Third linking terminal (battery connection terminal), 21a, 21b...Positive electrode connection terminal (wiring Box connection terminals), 22a, 22b... Negative connection terminals (wiring box connection terminals), 31a, 31b... First connection terminals (wiring box connection terminals), 32a, 32b... Second connection terminals (wiring box connection terminals), 33a, 33b... Third connection terminals (wiring box connection terminals), 40... Wiring box, 40c... Case, 40w... Internal wiring, 46... Bypass diode (diode), 47... Reverse current prevention diode (diode), 50... First circuit (circuit), 60... Second circuit (circuit), 70... Conversion box, 70c... Case, 71, 72... Connection terminals (conversion box connection terminals), 76, 77... Connection terminals (conversion box connection terminals), 78... Cable connector, 80... Solar power generation system, 81... Power conversion device.

Claims

1. It has solar modules, wiring boxes and conversion boxes, The solar cell module has battery connection terminals which are the positive and negative terminals, and battery connection terminals which are the terminals for three or more connecting wires. The wiring box has a plurality of wiring connectors, each having a wiring box connection terminal that can be connected to the battery connection terminal and a wiring box connection terminal that can be connected to the battery connection terminal, and internal wiring capable of configuring a circuit that combines series and parallel connections of the solar cell modules. The conversion box has a conversion box connection terminal that can be connected to the battery connection terminal, and a cable connector that can be connected to the power conversion device. Solar power generation system.

2. It is possible to increase the number of combinations of the solar cell module and the wiring box. One of the aforementioned solar cell modules can be replaced by multiple interconnected solar cell modules. It is possible to increase the number of solar cell modules connected to the wiring box connection terminals via the conversion box. The photovoltaic power generation system according to claim 1.

3. The conversion box has a rectangular case in plan view, and three conversion connectors equipped with a conversion box connection terminal and a conversion box linking terminal that can be connected to the battery connection terminal. Of the four sides of the case, the three conversion connectors are arranged on three sides, and the cable connector is arranged on one side. The photovoltaic power generation system according to claim 1 or 2.

4. It has solar modules, wiring boxes and conversion boxes, The solar cell module has battery connection terminals which are positive and negative terminals, and battery connection terminals which are terminals for connecting wiring that are not connected to the positive and negative terminals. The wiring box has a plurality of wiring connectors, each having a wiring box connection terminal that can be connected to the battery connection terminal and a wiring box connection terminal that can be connected to the battery connection terminal, and internal wiring capable of configuring a circuit that combines series and parallel connections of the solar cell modules. The conversion box is connected to the solar cell module or the wiring box and has a cable connector that can be connected to a power converter. Solar power generation system.

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