Sealant removing device using laser, and sealant removing method using laser

Abstract

Disclosed are a sealant removing device using a laser and a sealant removing method using a laser, which are capable of blocking the external leakage of reflected light and / or scattered light of laser light generated on a glass surface. The sealant removing device using a laser comprises: a stage module for loading a waste solar panel; a laser module for irradiating, at a sealant attached to the surface of a glass plate of the waste solar panel, laser light oriented in one direction; and a light cover arranged to be spaced apart from the glass plate above an irradiation point of the laser light so as to cover at least a portion of the space above the irradiation point.

Description

Laser-based sealant removal device and laser-based sealant removal method

[0001] The present invention relates to a device and method for removing sealant attached to a waste solar panel, and more particularly, to a laser-based sealant removal device and a laser-based sealant removal method that can cleanly remove sealant using a laser and safely protect workers by blocking external leakage such as reflected light and / or scattered light generated from a glass surface.

[0002] Solar panels are typically constructed using a multilayer structure. For example, a solar panel may be constructed using a laminated structure consisting of a protective glass plate, a backsheet layer (a type of film layer bonded to the solar cells sealed with encapsulant), and a backsheet. These solar panels are further protected by a metal frame around the edges.

[0003] While this structure is useful for extending the lifespan of solar cells and modularizing the device, it also increases the complexity of the solar panel disposal process. Specifically, the solar panel disposal process involves multiple steps to disassemble the panel into its components, and these steps are crucial for component recycling.

[0004] For example, waste solar panels can be disassembled through processes such as dismantling the metal frame and separating the glass plate from the backsheet layer. Among these processes, the process of using a scraper to peel the backsheet layer attached to the glass plate is particularly important (e.g., Republic of Korea Patent Publication No. 10-2021-0094258).

[0005] However, during the peeling process, when the scraper cuts the cut surface, the pressure of the scraper is transmitted to the glass plate. If the surface of the glass plate is uneven due to sealant (adhesive applied to seal the gap between the frame and the glass plate, etc.) or foreign substances attached to it, problems such as the glass plate being broken due to the pressure may occur.

[0006] In particular, sealant is difficult to process because it is bonded between the frame and the glass plate, and even if it is processed as a separate process, it is difficult to completely scrape it off due to the material (it is not easy to remove because it is made of adhesive) and location (it is arranged in a narrow and long manner, such as at the edge of the glass plate where the frame was), which is a problem when disposing of solar panels.

[0007] Meanwhile, the present invention was researched and developed with the support of the Korean government to solve these problems.

[0008] [National Research and Development Project 1 that supported this invention]

[0009] [Project ID] 2022003170

[0010] [Assignment Number] 2022003170007

[0011] [Ministry Name] Ministry of Environment

[0012] [Name of Project Management (Specialist) Institution] Korea Environmental Industry & Technology Institute

[0013] [Research Project Name] Green Innovation Enterprise Growth Support Program (Commercialization)

[0014] [Research Project Name] Development of Solar Waste Panel Resource Recycling Process Technology and Commercialization

[0015] [Contribution rate] 1 / 2

[0016] [Name of the project performing organization] Wonkwang SNT Co., Ltd.

[0017] Research Period: April 1, 2022 - December 31, 2024

[0018] [National Research and Development Project 2 that supported this invention]

[0019] [Project ID] 2050000175

[0020] [Assignment Number] RS-2022-KE002108

[0021] [Ministry Name] Ministry of Environment

[0022] [Name of Project Management (Specialist) Institution] Korea Environmental Industry & Technology Institute

[0023] [Research Project Name] Green Innovation Enterprise Growth Support Program (Research and Development)

[0024] [Research Project Name] Development of a Module-Level Power Evaluation Device (MLPE) for Solar Power Generation Systems to Improve Solar Waste Circulation

[0025] [Contribution rate] 1 / 2

[0026] [Name of the project performing organization] Wonkwang SNT Co., Ltd.

[0027] Research Period: April 1, 2022 - December 31, 2024

[0028] <Reference prior art literature>

[0029] (Patent Document 1) Republic of Korea Patent Publication No. 10-2021-0094258, (July 29, 2021)

[0030] The technical task of the present invention is to solve these problems, and to provide a laser-based sealant removal device that significantly enhances the sealant removal effect by using a laser, and also to provide a laser-based sealant removal device that can be used more safely by blocking the leakage of reflected light and / or scattered light of laser light generated at the irradiation point where the laser is irradiated. In addition, a method for removing sealant using a laser is also provided.

[0031] The technical problems of the present invention are not limited to the problems mentioned above, and other technical problems not mentioned will be clearly understood by those skilled in the art from the description below.

[0032] A sealant removal device using a laser according to the present invention comprises: a stage module for mounting a waste solar panel; a laser module for irradiating a sealant attached to a glass plate surface of the waste solar panel with a laser light directed in one direction; and an optical cover disposed above the irradiation point of the laser light and spaced apart from the glass plate, and covering at least a portion of the space above the irradiation point.

[0033] The above optical cover may include an absorbing layer made of a light absorbing material that reduces light reflectance on an inner surface facing the glass plate.

[0034] The above optical cover may further include a heat transfer layer laminated on the outside of the light absorption layer and a heat sink portion disposed on the outside of the heat transfer layer to dissipate heat transferred to the heat transfer layer to the outside.

[0035] The above light-absorbing layer is formed by including a light-absorbing paint made of nanoparticles, and the heat sink portion may include a plurality of heat-radiating fins protruding from the upper portion of the light cover.

[0036] The above laser module irradiates the laser light obliquely to the glass plate to form an acute angle of incidence with respect to the glass plate, and the optical cover is formed as a convex curved body covering the upper portion of the irradiation point of the laser light, and may include an optical hole on one side of the curved body that overlaps with the optical path of the laser light and passes the laser light therethrough.

[0037] It may further include an aperture portion arranged around the optical hole to define the size of the optical hole and change the size of the optical hole.

[0038] The device may further include an incident angle control unit that adjusts the incident angle of the laser light by varying the angle of the laser module with respect to the stage module.

[0039] The device may further include a transport module that moves at least one of the laser module and the stage module to move the laser light parallel to the surface of the glass plate relative to the glass plate.

[0040] The device may further include a position adjustment arm that connects the laser module and the optical cover to fix the relative position of the optical cover with respect to the laser module.

[0041] The method may further include an aiming module that adjusts the position of the laser module with respect to the stage module to aim the laser light toward the edge of the glass plate on which the sealant is applied.

[0042] A sealant removal device according to the present invention comprises: a stage module for settling a waste solar panel with a backsheet layer and a glass plate attached thereto so that the front surface of the glass plate is exposed; a laser module for irradiating a laser light onto a sealant attached to the front surface of the glass plate to burn and remove the sealant, and configured to vary the angle of the laser light; and a light cover for shielding reflected light of the laser light generated in response to the angle of the laser light, so that the front surface of the glass plate formed on the opposite side of the backsheet layer can be uniformly treated while the backsheet layer and the glass plate are attached thereto.

[0043] The above sealant is formed along the edge of the front surface of the glass plate, and the laser module can be moved by the transport module so that the irradiation point of the laser light overlaps the edge.

[0044] The method for removing sealant using a laser according to the present invention comprises the steps of: (a) arranging a waste solar panel with a backsheet layer and a glass plate attached thereto so that the front surface of the glass plate is exposed; and (b) irradiating a laser light obliquely to the sealant attached to the front surface of the glass plate to burn and remove the sealant, and at the same time shielding the reflected light of the laser light generated corresponding to the angle of the laser light with an optical cover, so that the front surface of the glass plate formed on the opposite side of the backsheet layer in a state in which the backsheet layer and the glass plate are attached can be uniformly treated.

[0045] In the above step (b), the reflected light reaching the optical cover can be absorbed by a light-absorbing layer made of a light-absorbing material on the inner surface of the optical cover.

[0046] According to the present invention, the surface of a glass plate can be treated very uniformly before the peeling process during the dismantling of waste solar panels. This method removes only the sealant attached to the entire surface of the glass plate while the glass plate and backsheet layer are bonded. Specifically, the sealant and other foreign substances are burned away with a laser, resulting in a very clean and uniform surface treatment. Therefore, the problem of glass breakage due to unevenness in the glass plate during subsequent processes can be effectively resolved. Furthermore, the laser's burning and removal of the sealant reduces debris and simplifies the process. Furthermore, when the laser is directed toward the glass plate, the shielding structure blocks reflected laser light and irregular scattered light (which may be generated from impurities such as sealant at the irradiation point), effectively preventing safety accidents caused by light leaking from the work area. Consequently, waste solar panels can be treated more safely with a laser.

[0047] FIG. 1 is a perspective view of a sealant removal device using a laser according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0048] Fig. 2 is a cross-sectional drawing of the state before the sealant removal device of Fig. 1 is installed on a waste solar panel, with respect to the stage module.

[0049] Fig. 3 is a cross-sectional view of the optical cover of the sealant removal device of Fig. 1.

[0050] Figure 4 is an operational diagram illustrating a process of installing a waste solar panel in the sealant removal device of Figure 1 and removing the sealant.

[0051] Fig. 5 is an operational diagram showing the movement method of the laser irradiation position during the sealant removal process of Fig. 4.

[0052] (The optical cover is shown in cross section in the operating diagrams of FIGS. 4 and 5)

[0053] The advantages and features of the present invention, as well as the methods for achieving them, will become clearer with reference to the embodiments described in detail below together with the accompanying drawings. However, the present invention is not limited to the embodiments disclosed below and may be implemented in various different forms. These embodiments are provided only to ensure that the disclosure of the present invention is complete and to fully inform those skilled in the art of the scope of the invention, and the present invention is defined solely by the claims. Like reference numerals designate like elements throughout the specification.

[0054] Hereinafter, with reference to FIGS. 1 to 5, a laser-based sealant removal device and a laser-based sealant removal method according to the present invention will be described in detail. The method will be described based on the description of the device after the description of the device.

[0055] FIG. 1 is a perspective view of a sealant removal device using a laser according to one embodiment of the present invention, and FIG. 2 is a cross-sectional view of the state of the sealant removal device of FIG. 1 before installation of a waste solar panel on a stage module.

[0056] Referring to FIGS. 1 and 2, a sealant removal device (1) using a laser according to the present invention (hereinafter, a sealant removal device) includes a stage module (100) on which a waste solar panel (A) is mounted, a laser module (200) arranged adjacent to the stage module (100), and a light cover (300) that shields the upper portion of the laser light irradiation point. The laser module (200) irradiates a laser light directed in one direction (see L in FIG. 3) onto the surface of a glass plate (A1) of the waste solar panel (A) to burn and remove the sealant (B) attached to the glass plate (A1).

[0057] At this time, since the laser light is irradiated toward the glass surface, reflected light (see La in FIG. 3) and scattered light (see Lb in FIG. 3) of the laser light may be generated at the irradiation point of the laser light. Although the laser light is irradiated toward the sealant (B), this problem needs to be sufficiently considered because the sealant may be quickly removed, exposing the glass surface. The present invention blocks external leakage of reflected light or scattered light by shielding the upper part of the irradiation point of the laser light with a light cover (300).

[0058] At this time, the laser light may not be irradiated perpendicularly to the glass plate (A1) but may be irradiated obliquely. Since the reflectance (e.g., which can be calculated from the Fresnel equation) and transmittance of light vary as a function of the incident angle (the angle with respect to the normal to the glass plate) at the interface of the medium (e.g., between air and the glass plate), irradiating the laser light obliquely so that the incident angle has an appropriate size can reduce the amount of light transmitted into the glass plate (A1). Therefore, irradiating the laser light obliquely can reduce the effects of transmitted light (such as heating due to transmitted light) and protect the backsheet layer (A2).

[0059] The optical cover (300) of the present invention blocks light leakage by shielding the upper portion of the laser light irradiation point in all directions as described below, so it is also very useful in shielding reflected light generated at an angle corresponding to the incident angle when laser light is irradiated obliquely to a glass plate.

[0060] The sealant removal device (1) of the present invention is configured as follows. The sealant removal device (1) includes a stage module (100) for mounting a waste solar panel (A), a laser module (200) for irradiating a laser light (see L of FIG. 3) directed in one direction onto a sealant (B) attached to a surface of a glass plate (A1) of the waste solar panel (A), and an optical cover (300) disposed above the irradiation point of the laser light and spaced apart from the glass plate (A1) to cover at least a portion of the space above the irradiation point.

[0061] In one embodiment of the present invention, the light cover (300) may include a light-absorbing layer (see 301 in FIG. 3) made of a light-absorbing material that reduces light reflectivity on an inner surface facing the glass plate (A1), and may also include a heat-conducting layer (see 302 in FIG. 3) laminated on the outside of the light-absorbing layer (301) and a heat sink (310) disposed on the outside of the heat-conducting layer (302) to dissipate heat transferred to the heat-conducting layer (302) to the outside. Accordingly, reflected light or scattered light can be absorbed and processed in the light cover (300), and the problem of the light cover (300) being overheated can also be resolved.

[0062] In addition, it may further include a transport module (400) that moves at least one of the laser module (200) and the stage module (100) to move the laser light (L) parallel to the surface of the glass plate (A1) with respect to the glass plate (A1), and may further include a position adjustment arm (330) that connects the laser module (200) and the light cover (300) to fix the relative position of the light cover (300) with respect to the laser module (200). Accordingly, it is possible to move the laser module (200) and remove the sealant (B), while maintaining the light cover (300) at a desired position (above the point of irradiation of the laser light) even while the laser module (200) is moving.

[0063] Additionally, the laser light can be irradiated obliquely to the glass plate (A1), and the incident angle of the laser light can be varied through an incident angle control unit (203), etc.

[0064] Hereinafter, the configuration and operational effects of the present invention will be described in more detail based on one embodiment of the present invention. First, the stage module and laser module will be described in detail, followed by a description of the optical cover.

[0065] Referring to FIGS. 1 and 2, the stage module (100) may be formed as a structure having a hollow interior and a flat surface. The stage module (100) may be configured to be mounted on a waste solar panel (A), and thus may be modified into various shapes, and thus the drawings are merely exemplary. For example, the stage module (100) may include a movable frame (110) formed by connecting square bars or the like to surround the waste solar panel (A). The movable frame (110) may have an internal accommodation space, and the accommodation space may be formed to be open to expose the front (the side with the glass plate) and the back (the side with the back sheet layer) of the waste solar panel (A), excluding the side surfaces. In this example, the stage module (100) can support the waste solar panel (A) by using a plurality of catches (112) that protrude from the movable frame (110) and are caught on the waste solar panel (A) (see Fig. 2 - the dotted line is the position where the waste solar panel is installed).

[0066] The stage module (100) can be transformed into various shapes capable of mounting a waste solar panel (A), and thus, its shape need not be limited to the drawing. The arrangement of the stage module (100) need not be limited to the horizontal direction as shown in the drawing, and vertical arrangement, etc., is also possible. Considering that the laser module (200) irradiates laser light obliquely, the stage module (100) can be arranged so that the waste solar panel (A) is at the irradiation point of the laser light.

[0067] A brief description of the waste solar panel (A) is as follows. The waste solar panel (A) may have a glass plate (A1) formed on the front and a back sheet layer (A2) formed on the back. The front of the glass plate (A1) is exposed, and the back is bonded to the back sheet layer (A2). The waste solar panel (A) is mounted on the stage module (100) so as to be within the irradiation range of the laser light. In the case where the laser module (200) is positioned above the stage module (100) as in the present embodiment, the waste solar panel (A) may be mounted on the stage module (100) so that the front surface where the glass plate (A1) is positioned faces upward.

[0068] The waste solar panel (A) is formed in a layered structure in which a glass plate (A1) and a back sheet layer (A2) are laminated (see enlarged views of FIGS. 1 and 2). The back sheet layer (A2) may be a type of film layer in which a solar cell sealed with an encapsulant and a back sheet are bonded, and is bonded to the glass plate (A1). The back sheet layer (A2) may be peeled from the glass plate (A1) in a subsequent peeling process, and the present invention may be used to uniformly treat the surface of the glass plate (A1) located opposite the back sheet layer (A2) before the peeling process (i.e., the front surface of the glass plate). That is, the sealant (B) and / or other foreign substances attached to the surface of the glass plate (A1) can be removed by the present invention.

[0069] The waste solar panel (A) of the present invention may have a metal frame (not shown) that was connected to protect the side (edge ​​portion) disassembled, and thus the sealant (B) applied between the glass plate (A1) and the metal frame (not shown) may remain along the edge of the surface of the glass plate (A1). The sealant (B) is made of a viscous resin or the like, and needs to be removed because it is fixed to the surface of the glass plate (A1) in a hardened state, making the surface uneven.

[0070] The laser module (200) irradiates a laser light (see L in Fig. 3) directed in one direction onto the sealant (B) attached to the surface of the glass plate (A1) of the waste solar panel (A). When the laser light hits the sealant (B), the sealant (B) is burned and removed, so it is processed quickly without leaving any residue, compared to removal methods such as scraping off the sealant (B).

[0071] The laser module (200) can irradiate laser light obliquely to the glass plate (A1) so as to have a constant incident angle (see α in FIG. 4) with respect to the normal direction of the glass plate (A1), for example. However, it is not necessary to be limited thereto, and it is also possible to irradiate laser light in other directions, such as a vertical direction, with respect to the glass plate, if necessary. However, in such a case, since the amount of light transmitted to the back sheet layer (A2) may increase, a structure that cools the back sheet layer (A2) to prevent deformation due to heat (e.g., a cooling module that sprays a coolant to the back sheet layer through a nozzle) may be added.

[0072] The laser module (200) is positioned adjacent to the stage module (100) as shown in FIGS. 1 and 2, and is positioned so as to be able to irradiate laser light toward the glass plate (A1) of the waste solar panel (A). To adjust the angle of the laser light, the laser module (200) may be positioned outside the waste solar panel (A). In the case where the glass plate (A1) faces upward as in the present embodiment, the laser module (200) is positioned above the waste solar panel (A). The laser module (200) has a light output portion (201) formed at the end through which laser light is emitted, and the light output portion (201) may face the glass plate (A1). The light output portion (201) may be arranged to be inclined with respect to the stage module (100) as shown.

[0073] The laser module (200) includes a oscillation unit (not shown) that generates laser light, etc., and the output can be adjusted through appropriate control. The shape and structure of the laser module (200) can be modified within the limit of being able to irradiate laser light, so the drawing is exemplary. In the present embodiment, the laser module (200) exemplifies a structure that irradiates laser light obliquely with respect to the glass plate (A1), so the light output unit (201) can be arranged at a certain angle with respect to the stage module (100).

[0074] The laser module (200) may include an incident angle control unit (203) that adjusts the incident angle of the laser light on the glass plate (A1) by varying the angle of the light output unit (201) with respect to the stage module (100). The incident angle control unit (203) may be formed, for example, with a structure that adjusts the orientation by rotating the light output unit (201) about a center of rotation. The incident angle control unit (203) may also be formed to have two or more intersecting rotation axes and to adjust different orientations with respect to two or more intersecting rotation centers (see the enlarged view of FIG. 1).

[0075] The azimuth adjustment of the incident angle control unit (203) can be formed automatically or manually. For example, the incident angle control unit (203) can be formed by forming the light output unit (201) in a nozzle shape and rotatably connecting it to the rotation center, etc. The incident angle control unit (203) is only briefly illustrated in the drawing, as there is no need to be any particular restrictions on the structure or shape as long as the angle adjustment of the light output unit (201) is possible.

[0076] If necessary, if the light irradiation angle of the laser module (200) is formed appropriately, it is possible to fix the incident angle and remove the sealant (B), so in such a case, the incident angle control unit (203) may not be formed.

[0077] In this embodiment, the laser module (200) can be combined with an aiming module (210). The aiming module (210) can adjust the position of the laser module (200) with respect to the stage module (100) to aim the laser light irradiated by the laser module (200) toward the edge of the glass plate (A1) on which the sealant (B) is applied.

[0078] In this embodiment, since the laser module (200) includes an incident angle control unit (203), the laser module (200) can be adjusted so that laser light is irradiated obliquely onto the surface of the glass plate (A1) by simultaneously utilizing angle control using the incident angle control unit (203) and position control using the aiming module (210).

[0079] For example, the aiming module (210) may be formed with a structure including a two-axis linear guide or the like that can move the laser module (200) in at least two mutually perpendicular axes. Therefore, it is possible to freely adjust the position of the laser module (200) at least on a plane parallel to the surface of the waste solar panel (A) through the aiming module (210) (see FIG. 1). The operating range of the aiming module (210) may be extended to the outside of the waste solar panel (A).

[0080] In this example, the aiming module (210) may include a guide axis (212) and a body part (211) that moves along the guide axis (212), and the guide axis (212) may be formed in a form in which at least two axes are cross-connected with the body part (211). The laser module (200) may be arranged and moved in the body part (211) of the aiming module (210).

[0081] However, the aiming module (210) does not need to be limited to such a configuration, and may be formed into a different type of aiming module (210) by utilizing various types of structures capable of changing position (e.g., a three-axis linear guide, a robot arm with joints, etc.). The drawing is merely exemplary, as the aiming module (210) can also be transformed into various types that can change the irradiation position of the laser light by adjusting the position of the laser module (200).

[0082] The optical cover (300) is positioned above the laser light irradiation point, spaced apart from the glass plate (A1). The optical cover (300) is formed to cover at least a portion of the space above the irradiation point while the laser light is irradiated (see FIG. 3). Since the position of the laser module (200) can be adjusted (by the aiming module or the transport module described below), the optical cover (300) does not need to be fixed, and a structure that can move together with the laser module (200) is preferable. The optical cover (300) can be connected to the laser module (200) so that its relative position with respect to the laser light (or laser module) can be fixed above the laser light irradiation point.

[0083] For example, the optical cover (300) can be connected to the laser module (200) through the position adjustment arm (330). At this time, the connection includes both direct and indirect connections. In the case where the laser module (200) is coupled to the aiming module (210) as in the present embodiment, the optical cover (300) can be connected to the laser module (200) through the aiming module (210). For example, as in FIG. 1, the connection part (331) of the position adjustment arm (330) can be coupled to the body part (211) of the aiming module (210) where the laser module (200) is arranged, so that the laser module (200) and the optical cover (300) can be connected through the position adjustment arm (330). By adjusting the position adjustment arm (330), the relative position of the optical cover (300) with respect to the laser module (200) can be fixed to a specific position (e.g., above the point of laser light irradiation).

[0084] The position adjustment arm (330) may be formed as a movable arm having, for example, multiple joints. Accordingly, the position adjustment arm (330) can be folded or unfolded to adjust the light cover (300) to an appropriate position capable of shielding reflected light, scattered light, etc. (e.g., see FIGS. 2 and 3). Since the position adjustment arm (330) is movable, it can be folded or rotated while the laser light is not being irradiated, so that the position of the light cover (300) can be adjusted so that it does not interfere with the process of mounting or detaching the waste solar panel (A).

[0085] Referring to FIG. 1, the optical cover (300) may have a convex curved surface that can cover the upper portion of the laser light irradiation point, and a heat sink part (310) including a heat dissipation fin (311) or the like may be arranged on the outside. Accordingly, the optical cover (300) may be formed with a structure capable of self-cooling. A detailed description of the optical cover (300) will be described later.

[0086] The sealant removal device (1) may include a transport module (400). The transport module (400) can move at least one of the laser module (200) and the stage module (100) so that the laser light irradiated by the laser module (200) moves parallel to the surface of the glass plate (A1) of the waste solar panel (A) with respect to the glass plate (A1) (see the operating diagram of FIG. 5). Therefore, by setting the irradiation position and angle of the laser light using the aiming module (210) and the incident angle control unit (203) and then moving the laser light parallel to the glass plate (A1) with the transport module (400), even a sealant (B) attached in a straight line can be automatically removed.

[0087] The optical cover (300) is connected to the laser module (200) by the aforementioned position adjustment arm (330), so that its relative position with respect to the laser module (200) can be fixed. Accordingly, even if the laser module (200) is moved by the transport module (400), the optical cover (300) moves together with the laser module (200) and can remain above the laser light irradiation point (see FIG. 5). Accordingly, while the laser light is irradiated, all reflected light and scattered light can be processed by the optical cover (300).

[0088] The transport module (400) may be formed, for example, in a structure that moves the stage module (100). For example, the stage module (100) may include a movable frame (110), and the transport module (400) may be configured to move the movable frame (110). For example, the transport module (400) may be formed in a form that includes a drive roller (see 410 in FIG. 2) that contacts the movable frame (110) to move the movable frame (110) in a longitudinal direction, and a motor (see 420 in FIG. 2) that transmits power to the drive roller (410) to rotate it.

[0089] For example, the movable frame (110) is slidably connected to a guide bar (111) arranged in the longitudinal direction of the solar panel (A), and when the driving roller (410) rotates, it can move in parallel in the forward and reverse directions along the guide bar (111). In this way, the irradiation position of the laser light can be automatically changed by moving the stage module (100).

[0090] However, it is not necessary to be limited to that, and it is entirely possible to move the laser module (200) instead of the stage module (100), or to move the stage module (100) and the laser module (200) simultaneously (in opposite directions). In such cases, the shape of the transport module can also be changed in a corresponding manner. The transport module (400) can also be transformed into various shapes, and therefore is not limited to the drawing.

[0091] Hereinafter, the structure and operation effect of the optical cover will be described in more detail with reference to Fig. 3. Fig. 3 is a cross-sectional view of the optical cover of the sealant removal device of Fig. 1.

[0092] Referring to FIG. 3, the optical cover (300) is positioned above the irradiation point of the laser light (L) (which may be the point where the laser light meets the sealant or the surface of the glass plate corresponding to the position of the sealant) and is spaced apart from the glass plate (A1). Therefore, it is possible to block reflected light and scattered light generated at the irradiation point. Since the optical cover (300) is sufficiently positioned above the irradiation point when the laser light is irradiated, its position may be changed to another point when the laser light is not being irradiated. The aforementioned position adjustment arm (330) can also be used for such purposes.

[0093] The optical cover (300) is placed above the irradiation point while the laser light (L) is irradiated, as shown in (b) of Fig. 3, to cover the space above the irradiation point of the laser light (L). Accordingly, the reflected light (La) of the laser light generated by being reflected by the glass plate (A1) at the irradiation point, or the scattered light (Lb) generated by the laser light being scattered in an unspecified direction by foreign substances such as the sealant (B) can be shielded from above to prevent leakage.

[0094] The optical cover (300) may have an absorbing layer (301) formed of a light-absorbing material that reduces light reflectivity formed on the inner surface facing the glass plate (A1). The absorbing layer (301) may be formed by including, for example, a light-absorbing paint formed of nanoparticles. Ideally, the absorbing layer (301) may be a black body. Since a black body refers to a material or substance with extremely high light absorption and extremely low reflectivity, a material close to a black body may be used as the absorbing material. The structure or material of the absorbing layer (301) may be modified into various forms within such a limit, and thus need not be limited to the examples of the present embodiment.

[0095] The light cover (300) may also include a heat transfer layer (302) laminated on the outside of the light absorption layer (301) and a heat sink unit (310) arranged on the outside of the heat transfer layer (302). The heat transfer layer (302) may be a layer made of a metal material surrounding the light cover (300). The light absorption layer (301) may be formed by applying a light absorption paint or the like to the inner surface of the heat transfer layer (302). The heat sink unit (310) may include a plurality of heat dissipation fins (311) protruding from the heat transfer layer (302) and may be formed with a structure including a plurality of heat dissipation fins (311) protruding above the light cover (300).

[0096] The light cover (300) may include a heat-conducting layer (302) made of metal or the like and having high thermal conductivity, and an absorption layer (301) that absorbs light inside the layer and transfers heat to the heat-conducting layer (302). Reflected light (La) or scattered light (Lb) may be absorbed by the absorption layer (301) and then converted into heat and transferred to the heat-conducting layer (302). Since a heat sink (310) is formed on the outside of the heat-conducting layer (302), the heat transferred to the heat-conducting layer (302) may be dissipated to the outside through the heat sink (310) and removed. Therefore, even when reflective light or scattered light is processed for a long time, the light cover (300) may be prevented from being excessively overheated.

[0097] Although the drawing illustrates a heat sink (310) comprising heat dissipation fins (311), the present invention is not limited thereto, and any active heat dissipation structure, such as a heat pump, can be added. In such a case, the heat transport capacity is improved, reducing the time required to dissipate heat, thereby enabling the temperature of the optical cover (300) to be lowered more quickly. A structure in which the sealant removal process using laser light is performed for a long time can also be applied.

[0098] The heat dissipation fins (311) are formed in multiple numbers and can be arranged to cover the entire outer surface of the optical cover (300). The size and number of the heat dissipation fins (311) can be adjusted as needed, and thus are not limited to the examples in the drawing. However, in the present embodiment, the optical cover (300) includes an optical hole (320) for guiding laser light, and thus some heat dissipation fins (311) may not be arranged at the corresponding points.

[0099] The optical cover (300) can be positioned in close contact with the glass plate (A1) to maximize the shielding effect of reflected light (La) and scattered light (Lb), and thus, a portion of the optical cover (300) may overlap the irradiation path of the laser light (L). In such a case, the laser light (L) can be passed through the optical hole (320).

[0100] Preferably, the optical cover (300) is formed with a convex curve as illustrated, so that it can surround the irradiation point in a substantial dome shape. Therefore, it can effectively block reflected light (La) and scattered light (Lb) radiated at various angles. Furthermore, when positioned adjacent to the glass plate (A1), the leakage space is reduced, thereby reducing the size of the optical cover (300).

[0101] For example, the laser module (200) may irradiate the laser light (L) obliquely to the glass plate (A1) to form an acute angle of incidence (see α in FIG. 4) with respect to the glass plate (A1), and the optical cover (300) may be formed as a convex curved body that covers the upper portion of the irradiation point of the laser light (L). At this time, an optical hole (320) that overlaps with the optical path of the laser light (L) and passes the laser light (L) may be formed on one side of the curved body. As illustrated, the optical cover (300) may be formed as a convex curved body, and may be, for example, a dome shape having a size capable of covering the periphery of the irradiation point. The shape of the optical cover (300) may be deformed within the limit of being a convex curved body, and thus need not be limited to the examples in the drawing.

[0102] In this example, the optical hole (320) may be formed in a form in which a portion of the optical cover (300) penetrates in a direction toward the laser module (200) of the optical cover (300). The optical holes (320) may be formed in multiple numbers and may be formed in a variable manner.

[0103] For example, an aperture (321) may be formed around the optical hole (320) to define the size of the optical hole (320). As shown in (a) of FIG. 3, the aperture (321) is movable and can be opened or closed to vary the size of the optical hole (320). Depending on the structure of the aperture (321), the position of the optical hole (320) may also be varied. In the present embodiment, the aperture (321) is exemplified by at least one pair of covers that are slidably coupled to the outer surface of the optical cover (300) to be closed or opened, and adjusting the position of the covers can change the size and / or position of the optical hole (320). The aperture (321) may be modified and implemented in various forms including these examples.

[0104] Therefore, by opening the optical hole (320) with the aperture (321) and irradiating the laser light (L) to the corresponding position as in (b) of Fig. 3, the laser light (L) can be irradiated inside the optical cover (300) without any problem. Since the relative positions of the laser module (200) and the optical cover (300) are adjusted, the relative position can also be set by considering the position of the optical hole (320). By using the optical hole (320), it is possible to remove the sealant (B) inside the space covered by the optical cover (300) while the optical cover (300) is practically in close contact with the surface of the glass plate (A1).

[0105] However, an optical hole is not necessarily required, and by adjusting the position or shape of the optical cover (300) or the angle of the laser light, the laser light can be irradiated to the lower part of the optical cover (300) without an optical hole, so there is no need to be limited to this embodiment. However, in cases where the area around the irradiation point is shielded in a nearly tight manner with the optical cover (300), it is preferable to apply an optical hole.

[0106] If necessary, a detection light (C) can be emitted from a detection light source (220) to accurately detect the location of the investigation position or the optical hole (320), and then laser light (L) can be emitted to the corresponding location. This structure can be useful for irradiating laser light into the interior of an optical hole, etc. It is also possible to place a detection light source (220) that emits detection light (C) in front of the light emitting unit (201) before laser light irradiation on one side of the laser module (200).

[0107] By this structure, the present invention can remove the sealant (B) attached to the glass plate (A1) of the waste solar panel (A) by irradiating the glass plate (A1) with laser light (L) and burning it with the laser light (L). In addition, since the reflected light (La) generated on the surface of the glass plate (A1) or the scattered light (Lb) scattered in an unspecified direction while removing the sealant (B) is absorbed and processed by the light cover (300), the device can be used very safely.

[0108] The optical cover (300) can block space in all directions in a dome shape (or convex curved shape), so it can not only respond to reflected light (La) formed at various angles, but also very effectively block the leakage of scattered light (Lb) whose direction is difficult to specify. In addition, since the light absorption layer (301) on the inner side of the optical cover (300) absorbs and removes the blocked light on its own, there is no need to worry about the light reaching the optical cover (300) being re-reflected and leaking out secondarily. In this treatment, the temperature rise of the optical cover (300) is resolved through the heat transfer layer (302) and the heat sink (310), so there is no problem even with long-term use.

[0109] Hereinafter, the operation of the present invention will be described in more detail with reference to FIGS. 4 and 5.

[0110] Fig. 4 is an operational diagram illustrating a process of mounting a waste solar panel on the sealant removal device of Fig. 1 and removing the sealant, and Fig. 5 is an operational diagram illustrating a method of moving a laser irradiation position during the sealant removal process of Fig. 4.

[0111] FIGS. 4 and 5 illustrate the entire operation process of the sealant removal device (1). The laser light (L) can be irradiated obliquely to the glass plate (A1). As described above, by forming the incident angle (α) into an acute angle, the amount of transmitted light transmitted toward the glass plate (A1) can be reduced, thereby preventing deformation of the back sheet layer (A2) due to heat. For example, an appropriate incident angle can be formed using an incident angle control unit (203), etc., and the optical cover (300) can be positioned in the incident direction of the laser light using a position adjustment arm (330), and then the laser light (L) can be irradiated. When the optical cover (300) is positioned so as to be as closely as possible to the surface of the glass plate (A1), the sealant (B) can be removed by irradiating the laser light (L) into the optical cover (300) through the optical hole (see 320 of FIG. 3) as described above.

[0112] As a result, while the laser light (L) is irradiated, both reflected light (La) and scattered light (Lb) are absorbed and processed by the light cover (300), and light leakage outside the irradiation point during the removal of the sealant (B) practically does not occur. In particular, since not only the reflected light (La), whose direction of travel is predictable, but also the scattered light (Lb), whose direction of travel is difficult to determine, can be processed inside the light cover (300), the sealant (B) can be removed more safely with the laser light (L).

[0113] For example, the laser light (L) can be moved parallel along the glass plate (A1) by moving the stage module (100) with the transport module (400). As shown in Fig. 4, after the waste solar panel (A) is placed on the stage module (100), the laser module (200) is aimed, and the light cover (300) is placed at the irradiation position, the laser light (L) is irradiated to start the removal process of the sealant (B), and then, as shown in Fig. 5, the transport module (400) is operated to move the stage module (100) to one side, and the irradiation position of the laser light (L) can be continuously changed. In this way, the sealant (B) attached to the glass plate (A1) can be automatically removed by moving the laser light (L) parallel with the transport module (400).

[0114] Even in this case, since the optical cover (300) is maintained above the irradiation point by the position adjustment arm (330), the shielding effect of the optical cover (300) remains unchanged even if the laser light moves in parallel. Accordingly, light leakage practically does not occur throughout the entire process of removing the sealant (B).

[0115] In addition, the sealant removal device (1) can also be controlled to reduce the amount of laser light (L) transmitted through the glass plate (A1) by adjusting the focus of the laser light (L). For example, the sealant removal device (1) may include a focus control unit (202) that is arranged in the laser module (200) and focuses the laser light (L) to create a focus of the laser light (L) above the surface of the glass plate (A1). Although briefly illustrated, for example, the focus control unit (202) may be formed as an optical system that can focus the laser light (L) and change the position of the focus, and within that limit, it is also possible to precisely control the position of the focus so that it is formed on the sealant (B) by implementing it in an appropriate form. The focus control unit (202) may be arranged at the end of the light output unit (201) of the laser module (200).

[0116] In this way, the sealant (B) and other foreign substances on the surface of the glass plate (A1) can be burned and removed very effectively with laser light (L), and external leakage such as reflected light or scattered light that occurs during the removal of the sealant (B) can also be effectively blocked. Therefore, not only can the surface of the glass plate (A1) be cleaned, but the process can also be carried out more safely while protecting workers.

[0117] The sealant removal device (1) of the present invention also has the following features in one aspect. The sealant removal device (1) is applied to the flattening process of the front surface of the glass plate before peeling off the back sheet layer (A2) of the waste solar panel (A), and thus is performed in a state where the back sheet layer (A2) and the glass plate (A1) are bonded. That is, the sealant removal device (1) includes a stage module (100) that places a waste solar panel (A) with a backsheet layer (A2) and a glass plate (A1) attached thereto so that the front surface of the glass plate (A1) is exposed, a laser module (200) that irradiates a laser light to the sealant (B) attached to the front surface of the glass plate (A1) to burn the sealant and remove it, but is formed so that the angle of the laser light can be varied, and a light cover (300) that shields the reflected light (La) of the laser light generated in response to the angle of the laser light, so that the front surface of the glass plate formed on the opposite side of the backsheet layer (A2) with the backsheet layer (A2) and the glass plate (A1) attached thereto can be uniformly processed.

[0118] At this time, the sealant (B) is formed along the edge of the front surface of the glass plate (A1), and the laser module (200) can be moved by the transport module (400) so that the laser light irradiation point overlaps the edge. This configuration can be confirmed from the embodiments described above, and this configuration is also not excluded from the technical concept of the present invention.

[0119] The laser module (200) is formed so that the angle of the laser light can be varied by the incident angle control unit (203) described above, and the optical cover (300) can be positioned by the position adjustment arm (330) described above to shield the reflected light of the laser light whose angle changes in response to the incident angle. Details thereof are illustrated in FIGS. 2 to 4, etc., so please refer to the above-described description for details.

[0120] Hereinafter, a sealant removal method using a laser according to the present invention will be described in detail. Since the sealant removal method of the present invention can be substantially performed using the sealant removal device (1) described above, any details that can be understood based on the above description will be omitted for illustrative purposes. The sealant removal method may include the following steps.

[0121] First, a waste solar panel (A) with a backsheet layer (A2) and a glass plate (A1) attached is placed so that the front surface of the glass plate (A1) is exposed [step (a)]. This step is illustrated in FIGS. 1 and 2, so details refer to the above description.

[0122] Afterwards, the sealant (B) attached to the front surface of the glass plate (A1) is irradiated with laser light obliquely to burn and remove the sealant, and at the same time, the reflected light (La) of the laser light generated corresponding to the angle of the laser light is shielded by the light cover (300). These steps are illustrated in FIGS. 3 to 5, so for details, refer to the above-described description. In this manner, the front surface of the glass plate (A1) formed on the opposite side of the back sheet layer (A2) while the back sheet layer (A2) and the glass plate (A1) are attached can be uniformly treated. In addition, external leakage of the reflected light can also be blocked.

[0123] At this time, in the above step (b), the reflected light (La) reaching the light cover (300) can be absorbed by the light-absorbing layer (301) made of a light-absorbing material on the inner surface of the light cover (300). In addition, heat generation due to light absorption can be eliminated by the action of the heat sink. These steps are illustrated in FIGS. 3 to 5, so for details, refer to the above-described description. In this way, while uniformly processing the entire surface of the glass plate with a laser, the back sheet layer attached to the opposite side is protected from deformation, and can be separated and recycled by peeling the back sheet layer through a subsequent process.

[0124] Although the embodiments of the present invention have been described with reference to the attached drawings, those skilled in the art will appreciate that the present invention can be implemented in other specific forms without altering the technical concept or essential features thereof. Therefore, the embodiments described above should be understood to be illustrative in all respects and not restrictive.

[0125] [Explanation of symbols]

[0126] 1: Laser-assisted sealant removal device

[0127] 100: Stage module 110: Movable frame

[0128] 111: Guide bar 112: Hook

[0129] 200: Laser module 201: Light output unit

[0130] 202: Focus control unit 203: Incident angle control unit

[0131] 210: Aiming module 211: Body

[0132] 212: Guide section 220: Detection light source

[0133] 300: Light cover 301: Light absorption layer

[0134] 302: Heat transfer layer 310: Heat sink section

[0135] 311: Heat sink fin 320: Optical hole

[0136] 321: Aperture section 330: Position adjustment arm

[0137] 331: Connection 400: Transfer module

[0138] 410: Drive roller 420: Motor

[0139] A: Waste solar panels A1: Glass panels

[0140] A2: Backsheet layer B: Sealant

[0141] C: Detection light L: Laser light

[0142] La: reflected light Lb: scattered light

[0143] α: angle of incidence

[0144] The present invention allows for a uniform treatment of the glass surface prior to the peeling process during the dismantling of waste solar panels, facilitating subsequent processes. In particular, the laser burns away sealant and other foreign substances, leaving no residue behind, resulting in a clean and streamlined process. Furthermore, deformation of the backsheet layer can be prevented, making it highly advantageous for recycling. Furthermore, the shielding structure blocks reflected light and irregular scattered light generated from the glass surface during laser irradiation, effectively preventing safety accidents caused by light leaking from the work area. Therefore, the present invention has significant industrial applicability.

Claims

1. Stage module for mounting waste solar panels; A laser module that irradiates a laser beam directed in one direction onto a sealant attached to the glass surface of the above-mentioned waste solar panel; and A sealant removal device using laser light, comprising an optical cover spaced apart from the glass plate above the irradiation point of the laser light and covering at least a portion of the space above the irradiation point.

2. In paragraph 1, The above-mentioned optical cover is a sealant removal device using laser light, which includes an absorbing layer made of a light absorbing material that reduces light reflectance on the inner surface facing the glass plate.

3. In paragraph 2, A sealant removal device using laser light, wherein the optical cover further includes a heat transfer layer laminated on the outside of the light absorption layer and a heat sink portion disposed on the outside of the heat transfer layer to dissipate heat transferred to the heat transfer layer to the outside.

4. In paragraph 3, The above absorbing layer is formed by including an absorbing paint made of nanoparticles, The above heat sink part is a sealant removal device using laser light including a plurality of heat dissipation fins protruding from the upper portion of the optical cover.

5. In paragraph 1, The above laser module irradiates the laser light obliquely to the glass plate to form an acute angle of incidence with respect to the glass plate, A sealant removal device using laser light, wherein the optical cover is formed as a convex curved body that covers the upper portion of the laser light irradiation point, and includes an optical hole on one side of the curved body that overlaps with the optical path of the laser light and allows the laser light to pass therethrough.

6. In paragraph 5, A sealant removal device using laser light, further comprising an aperture portion arranged around the optical hole to define the size of the optical hole and to vary the size of the optical hole.

7. In paragraph 5, A sealant removal device using laser light, further comprising an incident angle control unit that adjusts the incident angle of the laser light by varying the angle of the laser module with respect to the stage module.

8. In paragraph 1, A sealant removal device using laser light, further comprising a transport module that moves at least one of the laser module and the stage module to move the laser light parallel to the surface of the glass plate.

9. In paragraph 8, A sealant removal device using laser light, further comprising a position adjustment arm that connects the laser module and the optical cover to fix the relative position of the optical cover with respect to the laser module.

10. In paragraph 1, A sealant removal device using laser light, further comprising an aiming module that adjusts the position of the laser module with respect to the stage module to aim the laser light toward the edge of the glass plate on which the sealant is applied.

11. A stage module for mounting a waste solar panel with a backsheet layer and a glass plate attached so that the front surface of the glass plate is exposed; A laser module formed to burn and remove a sealant attached to the front surface of the glass plate by irradiating the sealant with laser light, but allowing the angle of the laser light to be varied; and Including an optical cover that shields the reflected light of the laser light generated in response to the angle of the laser light, A sealant removal device using a laser that evenly processes the front surface of the glass plate formed on the opposite side of the back sheet layer while the back sheet layer and the glass plate are attached.

12. In paragraph 11, A sealant removal device using a laser, wherein the sealant is formed along the edge of the front surface of the glass plate, and the laser module is moved by a transport module so that the irradiation point of the laser light overlaps the edge. 13.(a) A step of arranging a waste solar panel with a back sheet layer and a glass plate attached so that the front surface of the glass plate is exposed; and (b) including a step of irradiating a laser light obliquely onto a sealant attached to the front surface of the glass plate, burning and removing the sealant, and simultaneously shielding the reflected light of the laser light generated corresponding to the angle of the laser light with an optical cover. A sealant removal method using a laser to uniformly process the front surface of the glass plate formed on the opposite side of the back sheet layer while the back sheet layer and the glass plate are attached.

14. In paragraph 13, A sealant removal method using a laser in which, in the above step (b), the reflected light reaching the optical cover is absorbed by a light-absorbing layer made of a light-absorbing material on the inner surface of the optical cover.

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