Photovoltaic cell assembly

Abstract

A photovoltaic cell assembly, comprising: a plurality of sets of photovoltaic cells, each set of cells comprising a plurality of cells, each cell having an exposed surface for acceptance of solar radiation, a plurality of electrically conductive elements, wherein each of the electrically conductive elements comprises an upper portion, wherein the cells of each of the sets of cells are mounted on the upper portion of one of the electrically conductive elements, and wherein each of the upper portions is electrically connected to the corresponding set of cells, a plurality of electrical terminals, wherein each of the electrical terminals is electrically connected to the upper portion of one of the electrically conductive elements; wherein the electrical terminal extends beyond the upper portion, and a structure comprising a base and a plurality of supports protruding from the base, each of the supports supporting one of the electrically conductive elements.

Description

[0001] Photovoltaic cell assembly

[0002] The present application claims the benefit and priority of EP24382230.1 filed on March 1st, 2024.

[0003] The present disclosure relates to photovoltaic cell assemblies.

[0004] BACKGROUND

[0005] Photovoltaic cells generate electrical energy from solar radiation. The electrical energy generated by one cell is almost proportional to the irradiation received at an exposed surface of the cells.

[0006] Several photovoltaic cells are generally electrically connected together to form photovoltaic cell assemblies, or receivers. Photovoltaic cells are commonly electrically connected in series or in parallel. A parallel connection between cells increases the resultant current of the connection, maintaining a constant voltage. A series connection between cells increases the resultant voltage of the connection, maintaining a constant current.

[0007] As photovoltaic cells are generally electrically connected together, the cells may be positioned close to each other. By positioning the cells close together, the ratio of active cell area of the photovoltaic cell assembly in relation with the total surface area of the photovoltaic cell assembly is increased. In this way, the dead space in the total surface of the assembly is reduced. The electrical connection between cells requires the positioning of electrical components, such as electrical cables, over the exposed surface of the cells. These electrical components may cover a portion of the cells. Therefore, this connection increases the dead space and reduces the energy conversion efficiency, from solar radiation into electrical energy, of the photovoltaic cell assembly.

[0008] Photovoltaic cells may be used in concentration photovoltaic systems. Concentration photovoltaics (CPV) (also known as concentrating photovoltaics or concentrator photovoltaics) is a photovoltaic technology that generates electricity from solar radiation. In concentrating photovoltaic systems, lenses or curved mirrors are used to focus the solar radiation onto the cells. In addition, CPV systems often use solar trackers. Different types of concentration photovoltaic systems are known, such as reflective, refractive, luminescent, and total internal reflection systems. Refractive concentration photovoltaics uses a lens to concentrate the solar radiation. Reflective concentration photovoltaics uses mirrors. In some CPV systems, e.g. reflective photovoltaic systems, the photovoltaic cells are electrically connected in dense arrays.

[0009] The non-uniformity of the irradiance of the solar radiation into the cells affects the energy conversion efficiency of the photovoltaic cell assemblies. This non-uniformity of the irradiance depends, among others, on the precision of the trackers, the optics of the cells, the irradiation emitted by the sun or the placement and orientation of the cells. This non-uniformity of the irradiance may be more relevant in concentration photovoltaic systems. In addition, the cells of a concentrating photovoltaic cell assembly are heated by the exposure to the concentrated solar radiation. This may cause an overheat and a non-uniformity of temperature of the photovoltaic cells which may result in some cells not working properly.

[0010] The present disclosure provides examples of systems that at least partially resolve some of the aforementioned disadvantages.

[0011] SUMMARY

[0012] In a first aspect, a photovoltaic cell assembly is provided. The photovoltaic cell assembly comprises a plurality of sets of photovoltaic cells, a plurality of electrically conductive elements, and a plurality of electrical terminals. Each set of cells comprises a plurality of cells, each cell having an exposed surface for acceptance of solar radiation. Each of the electrically conductive elements comprises an upper portion. The cells of each of the sets of cells are mounted on the upper portion of one of the electrically conductive elements. Therefore, each of the electrically conductive elements holds one set of the plurality of sets. Each of the upper portions is electrically connected to the corresponding set of cells. Therefore, each of the upper portions is electrically connected to the set of cells mounted therein. Or in other words, each of the set of cells is electrically connected to the upper portion in which the set of cells is mounted. Each of the electrical terminals is electrically connected to the upper portion of an electrically conductive element. The electrical terminals extend beyond the upper portion. The photovoltaic cell assembly comprises a structure comprising a base and a plurality of supports protruding from the base, each of the supports supporting one of the electrically conductive elements. The supports define a central part of the assembly between the base right side and the right left side.

[0013] The electrical terminals are placed beyond the upper portion of each electrically conductive element. Therefore, the position of the electrical terminals allows the connection of electrical components, such as electrical cables and / or power electronic control components without increasing the dead space in the photovoltaic cell assembly. That is, it allows the placement of electrical components outside the exposed surface of the cells. In this way, the ratio of the active area of the photovoltaic cell assembly is optimized, improving the energy conversion efficiency of the assembly. This may be especially advantageous in reflective concentrating photovoltaics in which the cells are connected in dense arrays. In dense array arrangements, the cells are placed close together to optimize the area of solar radiation reflected by the reflective surface, e.g. a mirror or a central receiver. In a dense array assembly, the ratio of cell area of the photovoltaic cell assembly in relation to the total surface area of the photovoltaic cell assembly is higher than 50%. In some examples, this ratio may be higher than 90%, for example higher than 95% In some examples, the sets of cells may form a row. That is, the cells are placed one after another. In some examples, the cells may be in contact one with each other.

[0014] When cells or sets of cells are connected in series, a variation of the irradiance between cells may generate a current mismatch that may limit the overall current to the current of the cell or set of cells with lesser current. Power electronic control components may be used to compensate for the effect of the non-uniformity of irradiance between the cells of the assembly. The power electronic control components may regulate the voltage and / or the current outputted by the set of cells, for example by injecting current or by bypassing some or all of the cells. Examples of power electronic control components include bypass diodes and current supply elements, e.g. a DC / DC converter.

[0015] On one hand, the connection of bypass diodes at a cell level allows each cell to be bypassed in the event of the cell being faulty or having low irradiation. When the bypass diode is connected in parallel to a set of cells connected in parallel, the diode allows the circulation of the current of the most productive cell of the set of cells by impeding the circulation of the current of the least productive cells.

[0016] On the other hand, the connection of a current supply element supplies additional current to a cell. When connected in parallel to a set of cells connected in parallel, the current supply element supplies current to the parallel connection until a predetermined current is reached, without decreasing the operating voltage of the set of cells connected in parallel. The position of the electrical terminals on the assembly of the first aspect, outside the exposed surface of the cells, allows the connection of such power electronic control components without reducing the exposed surface of the cells.

[0017] In a second aspect, a photovoltaic cell assembly is provided. The photovoltaic cell assembly comprises a plurality of sets of photovoltaic cells and a cooling system to cool the plurality of sets of cells. Each set of cells comprises a plurality of cells. Each cell has an exposed surface for acceptance of solar radiation. The plurality of cells of each of the set of cells is connected in parallel. The plurality of sets of cells is electrically connected in series. Each of the set of cells is connected to a current supply element configured to regulate the voltage of each set of cells by injecting current. The cooling system comprises a plurality of cooling units. Each cooling unit is configured to cool one of the sets of cells. Therefore, each of the sets of cells is configured to be cooled by a cooling unit. Each of the cooling units comprises a channel for conducting a cooling fluid. The channels of each of the cooling units are substantially parallel to the corresponding set of plurality of cells.

[0018] According to the second aspect, the photovoltaic cells may be efficiently cooled. When a set of cells is connected in parallel, the resultant current generated by the set of cells is higher than the current of a single cell. As the cells of one set of cells are connected in parallel, a thermal difference between the cells on the set may affect the voltage of each cell mismatching the maximum power voltage of each cell with respect to the set of cells. Providing a cooling unit for each set of cells improves the uniformity of the temperature of the cells of each set. The cooling may thus be adapted to the cooling necessities of each of the sets of cells.

[0019] Furthermore, increasing the current of the set of cells may imply an increase in the temperature of the cells. The cooling units according to this aspect may thus cool the sets of cells to optimize the power generation of each cell.

[0020] The combination of the cooling system and the electrical connection of the plurality of cells of the second aspect, optimizes the voltage in each set of cells and compensates for the negative effect of thermal differences in parallel connections. Accordingly, the energy conversion efficiency of the photovoltaic cell assembly is improved. In some examples, the photovoltaic cell assembly according to the first and / or the second aspect is a concentrating photovoltaic cell assembly. In some examples, the concentrating photovoltaic cell assembly is a reflective photovoltaic system assembly In some examples, the concentrating photovoltaic cell assembly is a dense array photovoltaic cell assembly.

[0021] In some of these examples, the photovoltaic cell assembly may comprise a cooling system to cool the cells. Examples of concentrating photovoltaic cell assemblies are dense array photovoltaic cell assemblies.

[0022] In some examples, the photovoltaic cell assembly of the first aspect and / or the second aspect of the disclosure comprises a cooling system to cool the plurality of sets of cells.

[0023] BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0024] Non-limiting examples of the present disclosure will be described in the following, with reference to the appended drawings, in which:

[0025] Figures 1A-1 D schematically illustrate a photovoltaic cell assembly according to examples of the first aspect of the present disclosure.

[0026] Figure 2 schematically illustrates a photovoltaic cell assembly according to an example of the first aspect of the present disclosure.

[0027] Figure 3 schematically illustrates a cross-sectional view of a detail of the connection of the photovoltaic cells of Figure 2.

[0028] Figure 4 schematically illustrates a photovoltaic cell assembly according to an example of the first aspect of the present disclosure.

[0029] Figures 5A-5B schematically illustrate a photovoltaic cell assembly according to an example of the second aspect of the present disclosure.

[0030] Figures 6A-6B illustrate examples of a diagram of the electrical connection according to an example of the second aspect of the present disclosure. Figure 7 illustrates an example of a photovoltaic cell assembly according to the first and / or the second aspect of the present disclosure.

[0031] Figures 8 and 9 illustrate cross-sectional views of an example of the cooling system according to the first and / or the second aspect of the present disclosure in which the electrically conductive element is engaged with its corresponding support.

[0032] Figure 10 illustrates an example of the base according to an example of the first and / or the second aspect.

[0033] DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF EXAMPLES

[0034] To clarify some of the terms used throughout the present disclosure some definitions will be given.

[0035] The terms “up”, “high” and “low”, “down”, as well as its derived terms, are to be understood as references in height direction, therefore the perpendicular direction to the exposed surface of the cells. “Up” and “high” refer to the relative closeness to the sun or to the irradiance source of the cells, while “low” and “down” refer to the relative distantness to the sun or to the irradiance source of the cells. Similarly, the term “front of the cells” is to be understood as the side of the cells that faces the sun while the term “back of the cells” is to be understood as the side of the cells that opposes the sun.

[0036] The terms “right” and “left” are to be understood as references in a longitudinal direction of the device, the “longitudinal direction” of the device being defined as a direction perpendicular to the height direction of the device. The term “transversal direction” is to be understood as the direction perpendicular to the height direction and to the longitudinal direction.

[0037] Figures 1A - 1 D schematically illustrate examples of the first aspect of the present disclosure.

[0038] The photovoltaic cell assembly 100 of Figures 1A - 1 D comprises a plurality of sets 11 of photovoltaic cells 1. The cells 1 are electrically connected between them forming sets 11 of cells. Each set 11 of cells comprises a plurality of cells 1 . A set 11 of cells can also be defined as a module. The cells 1 comprise an exposed surface 110 for acceptance of solar radiation. The exposed surface is arranged on the upper surface or front surface of the cell.

[0039] The photovoltaic cell assembly 100 comprises a plurality of electrically conductive elements 2. Each one of the cells 1 of a set 11 of cells is electrically connected to one of the electrically conductive elements 2. In the Figures, the distance between the different electrically conductive elements 2 is exaggerated for illustrative purposes.

[0040] In these examples, the photovoltaic cell assembly 100 extends from a right side 701 of the assembly to a left side 702 of the assembly in the longitudinal direction 720 and from a first side 703 of the assembly to a second side 704 of the assembly in the transversal direction 730. The longitudinal direction 720 and the transversal direction 730 are perpendicular to a height direction 710. The photovoltaic cell assembly further comprises a thickness or height extending in the height direction 710.

[0041] The set 11 of cells of these figures extend in the longitudinal direction 720. In the example, each set of cells form a row or a line. That is, the cells of each set are placed one after another. The cells of each set are also shown in contact with each other, in particular with other cells of the same row and set. In these figures, the sets 11 are arranged at different positions along the transversal direction 730. The set 11b is consecutive to the set 11a and 11c. The set 11a is placed previously to the set 11 b and the set 11c is placed subsequently to the set 11c relative to the transversal direction 730.

[0042] Each one of the electrically conductive elements 2 comprises an upper portion 200. In particular, the cells of each of the sets 11 of cells are mounted on the upper portion 200 of each of the electrically conductive elements 2. Each of the electrically conductive elements 2 holds one set of the plurality of sets. The back of the cells may thus be in contact with the upper portion 200 of the conductive elements 2. In an example, the electrically conductive elements 2 are metallic elements, which optionally comprise copper and / or aluminium.

[0043] Therefore, each of the upper portions 200 is electrically connected to the corresponding set 11 of cells, i.e. the set 11 of cells mounted on the upper portion 200 of one electrically conductive element. Each of the upper portions is electrically connected with the cells 1 of its corresponding set 11 of cells, for example via electrical cabling or by contact, e.g. via welding. The cells of the same set 11 of cells are electrically connected between them via their electrical connection to the electrically conductive element in which the set is mounted. Figures 1 A - 1 D show the cells 1 mounted to the upper portions 200 of each corresponding electrically conductive element 2 electrically connected by welding. As the cells 1 are welded to the upper portion 200 of one of the electrically conductive elements 2, the welding point between a cell and the electrically conductive element 2 ensures the electrical connection between the cells and the electrically conductive element. The welding point or points may maintain in place the cells mounted on the electrically conductive element and improve the electrical connection.

[0044] In some examples, the plurality of cells 1 in each set 11 of cells are electrically connected in parallel and the plurality of sets 11 of cells are electrically connected in series. The electrical connection of the cells of the first aspect of the disclosure may be in accordance with the electrical connection of the cells described in the second aspect of the disclosure.

[0045] In some examples, the plurality of cells 1 of each of the sets 11 of cells is electrically connected in parallel with the upper portion 200 of its corresponding electrically conductive element 2. Therefore, the cells 1 of each of the set of cells are electrically connected in parallel due to the direct interconnection, e.g. by direct contact and / or welding, between the cells 1 and the electrically conductive element 2. As the section of the electrically conductive element 2 is greater than the section of electrical cabling between cells, the current to be transported may be higher or the temperature of the conductor may be reduced for a given current. Furthermore, electrical losses may be reduced. In addition, the direct connection in parallel of the cells 1 that form a single set 11 through the electrically conductive element 2 avoids the use of other electrical connections, such as electrical cabling. Placing electrical cabling on the front surface of the cells is thus avoided. As explained above, the upper portion 200 of the electrically conductive element 2 may be electrically connected to the back of the cells through welding. An advantage of the cells 1 being welded to the electrically conductive elements 2 is that there is no dielectric element between the cells 1 and the electrically conductive element 2. This may simplify and reduce the costs of the manufacturing of the assembly. Dielectric elements may be used to electrically isolate two elements. The isolation may improve a series connection while worsening a parallel connection. Therefore, a direct connection of the cells 1 with the electrically conductive element 2, without dielectric may improve the parallel connection.

[0046] The photovoltaic cell assembly 100 of the first aspect comprises a plurality of electrical terminals 24. Each one of the electrical terminals 24 is electrically connected to an electrically conductive element 2, in particular to the upper portion 200 of one of the electrically conductive elements. Therefore, the upper portion of each of the electrically conductive elements is electrically connected to an electrical terminal. Thus, each electrical terminal is associated with a corresponding, specific, electrically conductive element 2. The term “electrical terminal” is to be understood as a terminal or point of electrical connection between said electrical terminal and an external element, such as a power electronics conversion component, an electrical cable, a measuring element, or another electrical terminal. The electrical terminal may thus be used to connect the electrically conductive element to an external element, e.g. a power electronics conversion component.

[0047] In some examples, at least one of the electrically conductive elements 2 is electrically connected to an electrical terminal 24. In these examples, some electrically conductive elements 2 are not electrically connected to an electrical terminal 24, e.g. the first and / or last electrically conductive elements 2 of the photovoltaic cell assembly 100.

[0048] The electrical terminals 24 of these figures extend beyond each corresponding upper portion 200. Consequently, the position of these electrical terminals does not interfere with the exposed surface of the cells. The amount of irradiation received by the cells may thus be increased.

[0049] In these figures, the photovoltaic cell assembly 100 also comprises a structure 8. The structure 8 comprises a base 80 and a plurality of supports 81. The supports 81 protrude from the base 80 of the structure 8 in the height direction 710. Each of the supports 81 holds or supports one of the electrically conductive elements 2. Accordingly, each specific support 81 supports a specific electrically conductive element 2, and therefore, each specific support 81 holds a specific set 1 of cells, which form a row, and a specific electrical terminal 24.

[0050] The supports 81 of the photovoltaic cell assembly 100 extend from a right side 701 of the photovoltaic cell assembly 100 to a left side 702 of the assembly. Each of the supports 81a, 81b, 81c are placed consecutively along the transversal direction 730 from a first side 703 of the photovoltaic cell assembly 100 to a second side 704 of the assembly. The supports 81a, 81 b, 81c of these examples are arranged one after the other in the transversal direction 730. Each electrically conductive element 2a, 2b, 2c is supported by the corresponding support 81a, 81 b, 81c.

[0051] The supports 81 define a central part of the assembly between the base right side and the base left side. In the example of Figures 1A to 1 D, the distance between the cells and the lower portion of the support, and therefore the distance between the upper portion of the electrically conductive element and the lower portion of the support, is the same in the central part of the assembly than on the base right side and the base left side. In some examples, the distance between the cells and the lower portion of the support is lesser in the central part than in the right side and left side of the supports.

[0052] In this example, the electrically conductive elements extend in the longitudinal direction 720. The electrically conductive elements of these examples are arranged between the right side 701 of the photovoltaic cell assembly 100 and the left side 702 of the assembly. In some examples, the electrically conductive elements extend from the right side 701 to the left side 702 of the photovoltaic cell assembly 100. Each set 11 a, 11 b, 11c is mounted in a corresponding electrically conductive element 2a, 2b, 2c. The sets 11a, 11 b, 11c extend in the longitudinal direction 720 and are arranged between the first side 703 and the second side 704 of the assembly. In some examples, the sets may extend from the right side 701 of the photovoltaic cell assembly 100 to the left side 702 of the assembly. Although the examples of the first aspect shown in Figures 1 A - 1 D illustrate three sets 11 of cells forming a row and mounted in three electrically conductive elements 2 supported by three supports 81 , the number of sets, of the electrically conductive elements and of the supports may vary.

[0053] In some examples, the length of the sets 11 in the longitudinal direction 720, and therefore the length of the row of cells of the set, substantially corresponds to the length of the electrically conductive elements 2. In other examples, the length of the electrically conductive elements 2 is greater than the length of the sets 11 of cells. An extension length of the electrically conductive element 2 may thus project from the right and / or left side of the set 11 of cells. This extension length or prolongation provides a space for the placement of electrical connections outside of the exposed surface 110 of the cells. In the example of Figures 1 B and 1 D, the electrical terminals 24 are shown in the extension length or projection on the right side of the electrically conductive element 2.

[0054] In Figures 1A and 1 C, the electrical terminals 24a, 24b, 24c are arranged in a side wall 203 of each electrically conductive element 2. The electrical terminals 24a, 24b, 24c of these figures extend beyond the upper portion 200 of each electrically conductive element 2 in a direction opposite of the cells. The side wall 203 of these examples extends a distance downwards from the upper portion 200, i.e. in a height direction 710 opposite to the cells. The electrical terminals 24 of these figures extend downward from the side walls 203. Consequently, the electrical terminals 24 are placed below the side walls 203 and the upper portion 200 of the cells 1. The electrical terminals are thus spaced apart from the cells. The electrical terminals are thus arranged at a distance from the cells in the height direction 710.

[0055] As in figures 1A and 1C, the electrical terminals 24a, 24b, 24c of figures 1 B and 1 D extend beyond the upper portion 200 of each electrically conductive element. The electrical terminals are arranged apart from the cells, in a right side of the upper portion 200 of each electrically conductive element 2. The electrical terminals 24a, 24b, 24c in Figures 1 B and 1 D extend from the right side of the upper portion 200 in the longitudinal direction 720. In further examples, the electrical terminals may be arranged in a left side of the upper portion of the electrically conductive elements 2.

[0056] As explained before, an advantage of placing the electrical terminals 24 beyond the upper portion of the electrically conductive elements 2 is that the electrical terminals 24 are placed outside the exposed surface of the cells for acceptance of solar radiation. Therefore, the ratio of the active cell area of the photovoltaic cell assembly in relation to the total surface area of the photovoltaic cell assembly is increased. Consequently, the dead space in the total surface of the assembly is reduced. The placement of the electrical terminals beyond the upper portion of the electrically conductive elements also eases the assembly of different photovoltaic cell assemblies without affecting the active cell area of the photovoltaic cell assembly.

[0057] In some examples, the electrical terminals 24 are configured to be connected to a power electronic conversion element, such as illustrated in Figures 1C and 1 D. The placement of the electrical terminals 24 beyond the upper portion 200 of the electrically conductive element 2 allows the electronic conversion element to be placed outside the exposed surface of the cells for acceptance of solar radiation. A power electronic control component or a power electronic converter is an electrical or electromechanical device for converting electrical energy. Examples of power electronic control components include current supply elements, such as DC / DC converters, DC / AC converters, rectifiers, or bypass diodes.

[0058] The electrical terminals may also be configured to connect the electrical input and electrical output of the photovoltaic cell assembly with an external inverter and / or with other photovoltaic cell assemblies.

[0059] In some examples, the photovoltaic cell assembly may comprise a dielectric element 5 placed between at least one electrically conductive element 2 and the corresponding support 81 , such as illustrated in Figure 1 D. This dielectric element 5 enables an electrical isolation between the electrically conductive element 2 and the support 81 . This dielectric element may be an individual dielectric element for each of the electrically conductive elements or a dielectric element common for all electrically conductive elements. In some examples, the dielectric element may be a layer of a dielectric material, e.g. a plastic material, arranged between the electrically conductive element 2 and the support 81 to electrically isolate the base 80 from the electrically conductive elements 2.

[0060] Figure 2 illustrates a photovoltaic cell assembly according to the first aspect and Figure 3 schematically illustrates a cross-sectional view of a detail of the connection of the photovoltaic cells of Figure 2.

[0061] Analogously to the structure shown in Figures 1A-1 D, the structure 8 of the photovoltaic cell assembly of Figure 2 comprises a base 80 and a plurality of supports 81 . The base

[0062] 80 extends from a right side 701 to a left side 702 in the longitudinal direction 720. In this example, the base 80 comprises a base right leg 801 and a left leg 802. The base right leg and the base left leg are shown arranged in a base right side and the leg left side respectively.

[0063] The legs 801 , 802 of the base 80 of the structure 8 ease the placement of the supports

[0064] 81 that support the cells in an elevated position from the ground. The supports 81 extend along the longitudinal direction from a base right side to a base left side, from the base right leg 801 to the base left leg 802 of the base. The supports define a central part of the assembly between a base right side and a right left side. The support lower portion is the lower portion of the support, opposed to the front of the cells. Each one of the supports 81 comprises a support central part and a lower portion 816 of the support central part. The electrical terminals 24 extend beyond the lower portion 816 of the support central part of its corresponding support 81 in a direction opposite to the photovoltaic cells 1. In the example of Figure 2, the distance between the cells and the lower portion of the support is lesser in the central part than in the right side and left side of the supports. The lower portion 816 of the support central part (not shown in Figure 2) is placed higher in the height direction 710 than the lower portion 8160 of the support side parts. The lower portion 816 of the support central part is illustrated in Figure 10.

[0065] A free space between the legs and the lower portion 816 of the support central part may thus be obtained. Thus, the electrical connections and / or an electrical terminal 24 can be positioned below the lower portion 816 of the support central part instead of over the exposed surface of the cells. Therefore, the ratio of active cell area of the photovoltaic cell assembly in relation to the total surface area of the photovoltaic cell assembly can be maintained as the electrical connections can be positioned outside of the cell area of the photovoltaic cell assembly without decreasing the ratio of active cell area. The placement of the electrical connections between the legs of the base also protects the electrical connections from dust and weather conditions such as rain and snow.

[0066] In this Figure, the supports 81 extend in the longitudinal direction from a base right side to a base left side. The base right leg 801 and the base left leg 802 are connected by the plurality of supports 81 . The electrically conductive elements 2 of Figure 2 extend in the longitudinal direction from a base right side to a base left side. The photovoltaic cells 1 of each set 11 of cells form a row of cells placed one after another and extend from a right side to a left side of the electrically conductive element 2. As exemplified in Figure 2, the cells 1 of each set 11 extend in the longitudinal direction, from the base right side to base left side, mounted on its corresponding electrically conductive element 2 which is also supported by its corresponding support 81. Each of the electrically conductive elements 2 engages the corresponding support 81.

[0067] In an example, the base of the photovoltaic cell assembly is electrically isolated from the electrically conductive elements 2. In an example, the supports 81 are made of a dielectric material, optionally comprising plastic. This configuration facilitates the electrical connection in series between sets of cells, as each set of cells may have a different voltage. In an example, the photovoltaic cell assembly comprise a dielectric element placed between at least one electrically conductive element 2 and the base 80 of the structure 8 to further improve the electrical isolation of the base of the structure. In an example, the dielectric element is a dielectric fluid flowing through a cooling channel of a cooling system such as described in relation to any of the examples the second aspect of the disclosure. The cooling system may be configured so that the dielectric fluid electrically isolates the electrically conductive elements 2 and the base 80 of the structure.

[0068] In an example illustrated in Figures 2 and 3, the photovoltaic cell assembly also comprises a gap 807 between two consecutive electrically conductive elements 2, which generates an isolation that further facilitates the series connection between sets of cells. In Figure 3, there is a gap 807 between the electrically conductive elements 2a and 2b and a gap between the electrically conductive elements 2b and 2c. The concentrating photovoltaic cell assembly may further comprise a dielectric element placed in the gap 807 to improve this isolation.

[0069] In some examples, the photovoltaic cell assembly may be a concentrating photovoltaic cell assembly, e.g. a dense array photovoltaic cell assembly. Concentrating photovoltaics can advantageously comprise cooling systems as concentrating photovoltaic cells can be heated at high temperatures during operation. For example, the photovoltaic cell assembly may be a dense array assembly of photovoltaic cells of a reflective photovoltaic system. Accordingly, the ratio of cell area of the photovoltaic cell assembly in relation to the total surface area of the photovoltaic cell assembly is higher than 50%, for example higher than 95%.

[0070] The photovoltaic cell assembly may comprise a cooling system. In some examples, the cooling system may comprise a plurality of microfluidic cells. The microfluidic cells may adapt the cell flow rate through temperature-controlled microvalves, allowing an individually variable coolant flow rate. In an example, the microfluidic cells are fed with cooling fluid through a manifold with multiple inlet and outlet channels. In some examples, the cooling system may comprise microchannels. In some examples, the cooling system may comprise a plurality of cooling units. For example, the cooling units may be according to any of the examples of the second aspect of this disclosure. Each of the cooling units can be configured to cool the cells of a set of cells mounted in one of the electrically conductive elements of the photovoltaic cell assembly.

[0071] The efficiency of the cooling may be increased by providing a direct contact between the cooling system and the electrically conductive elements and eliminating dielectric elements between the cooling system and the cells. Dielectric elements may also have the problem of having low thermal conductivity. When the cells are cooled by a cooling system, the lack of a dielectric element reduces the thermal loss of the thermal transfer between the cells and the cooling system. Therefore, a direct connection of the cells 1 with the electrically conductive element 2 improves the thermal extraction of the cells. This effect is due to the presence of only one heat transfer (and one interface), where thermal losses may occur, between the cells and the electrically conductive elements instead of having two different heat transfers, corresponding to the heat transfer between the conductive element and the dielectric element and to the heat transfer between the dielectric element and the cells. The improvement of the thermal extraction allows a reduction of the working temperature of the cells, which results in an improvement of the energy conversion efficiency of the photovoltaic cell assembly.

[0072] In the example of Figure 2, the electrically conductive elements 2 comprises an upper portion 200, a first side wall 203 and a second side wall 204. The electrically conductive elements 2 comprise a U-shaped cross-section, defined by the first side wall 203, second side wall 204 and the upper portion 200 connecting side walls 203, 204. The first side wall and the second side wall extend from an upper end 205 to a lower end 206. The upper end 205 of the first side wall 203 and the upper end 205 of the second side wall 204 are thus electrically connected to the upper portion 200. The U-shaped cross-section of the electrically conductive elements 2 may substantially fit with the shape of the supports 81 . Accordingly, the supports may hold or support the electrically conductive elements. Furthermore, the electrically conductive elements may be easily mounted on the supports 81.

[0073] In the example of Figure 2, the electrical terminals 24 are arranged at the lower end 206 of the first side wall 203 of each electrically conductive element 2. In other examples, the electrical terminals may be placed at the second side wall. Arranging the terminals at the lower end of the first or second side walls allows the electrical terminals 24 to be placed outside of the exposed surface of the cells, reducing the dead space in the total surface of the assembly. The electrical terminals 24 may thus be connected to the upper portion 200 through the first side wall 203 or the second side wall 204. Although the example in Figure 2 comprises two side walls 203, 204, in an alternative example, the electrically conductive elements 2 may comprise only one side wall 203 where the electrical terminal 24 is connected. Alternatively, the photovoltaic cell assembly 100 may comprise more than one electrical terminal 24 per each set 11 of cells and / or each electrically conductive element may be electrically connected to more than one electrical terminal.

[0074] In the example of Figure 2, the lower end 206 of the first side wall 203 of each of the electrically conductive elements 2 extends below the lower portion 816 of the support central part of the corresponding support 81 in the height direction 710. The first side wall 203 of this example is longer than the second side wall 204. Therefore, the distance between the lower end of the first side wall to the upper end of the first side wall is greater than the distance between the lower end of the second side wall to the upper end of the second side wall. The electrical terminal 24 may thus be arranged on the longest side wall. As the other side wall may be shorter, less material may be needed for this other side wall. In this example, the electrical terminal 24 is arranged in a protruding section 2031 of the lower end 206 of the first side wall 203. This protruding section 2031 of the lower end 206 of the first side wall 203 extends below a lower portion 816 of the support central part of its corresponding support 81 .

[0075] In the example of Figure 2, the electrical terminals 24 are arranged between the legs 801 , 802 of the base 80. Each of the electrical terminals 24 extends beyond the corresponding support 81 in the height direction and opposite to the photovoltaic cells. Each electrical terminal 24 extends beyond the support lower portion of its corresponding support 81 in the height direction and opposite to the photovoltaic cells 1. In particular, each electrical terminal 24 extends beyond the lower portion 816 of the support central part.

[0076] In an example illustrated in Figure 3, the photovoltaic cell assembly 100 also comprises one or more bus bars 18. The bus bars 18 are arranged between an upper surface 105 of at least one cell 1 of each set 11 of cells, which form a row, and the lower surface 106 of at least one cell of a consecutive set of cells. Bus bars are conductive strips for connecting cells, and the irradiation received on their surface does not generate energy. Bus bars do not generate electricity. Connecting the cells 1 by connecting an upper surface 105 of a cell 1 with a lower surface 106 of a consecutive cell generates a superposition of the cells 1. The width of the superposition in the transversal direction 730 is small when compared with the width of the cells. That is, the active area of the photovoltaic cell assembly is only reduced an area corresponding to the width of the bus bars, which is less than other configurations in which electrical components may be placed on the exposed surface of the cells, highly reducing the active area of the assembly. Accordingly, the active area of the photovoltaic cell assembly may be maximized.

[0077] In an example, each of the cells 1 comprises at least a bus bar 18. The bus bar 18 is placed on a side of an upper surface 105 of the cell 1. The cells optionally comprise two bus bars 18, placed on a first side 103 and a second side 104 of an upper surface 105 of the cell 1. The one or more bus bars 18 are welded or electrically bonded to the upper surface 105 of the cell and / or the lower surface 106 of the consecutive cell 1 via a bonding point 189. The electrical bond may be by an epoxy conductor element.

[0078] To allow the superposition of the cells 1 , the upper portion 200 of an electrically conductive element 2b is positioned slightly higher than the upper portion of an electrically conductive element 2a of a consecutive set of cells. This configuration differs from other configurations of the cells that may require the placement of an adapter between the cells and the support to incline the cells, such as a sawtooth configuration of the cells. These configurations may reduce the contact area between the cells and the electrically conductive element, worsening the electrical connection between the cells and the electrically conductive element 2.

[0079] Figure 3 also illustrates the cells 1 of each set of cells welded to their corresponding electrically conductive element 2 via a welding point 129, thus avoiding the use of an adapter between the cells and the electrically conductive element 2. This further improves the thermal conductivity between the cells to the electrically conductive element 2, which is more relevant when the photovoltaic cell assembly comprises a cooling system 6.

[0080] Figure 4 illustrates a photovoltaic cell assembly according to an example of the first aspect of the present disclosure. In this figure, an electrical terminal 24 is connected to a power electronic control component. The power electronic control component is configured to regulate the voltage and / or the current outputted by the set of cells. That is, the voltage and / or the current outputted by the row of cells. For example, the power electronic control component may be a current supply element to regulate the voltage of each set of cells by injecting current. The power electronic control component is electrically connected in parallel with the cells 1 of the set 11 of cells mounted on the upper portion of the corresponding electrically conductive element 2. Therefore, each set 11 of cells may comprise a power electronic control component. In an example, the power electronic control component is connected between two electrical terminals 24 of corresponding consecutive electrically conductive elements 2 to electrically connect in series two consecutive set of cells. Alternatively, the power electronic control component may be connected to a single electrical terminal 24.

[0081] Examples of power electronic control components include bypass diodes and current supply elements. In the example illustrated in Figure 4, the power electronic control component is a current supply element 4, which supplies current to the output of each set 11 of cells connected in parallel. In an example, the current supply element is a DC / DC converter. The DC / DC converter may be advantageously configured to supply to the output of each set of cells connected in parallel a current corresponding to the current mismatch between the current generated by the cells 1 of a set 11 of cells connected in parallel and the current corresponding to the maximum power point of the photovoltaic cell assembly 100. The use of current supply elements allows each of the sets of cells to work at its maximum power point regardless of the power generated by other sets of cells, also reducing the loses of the assembly.

[0082] Alternatively, the electrical terminals 24 may be connected to power electronic control components such as bypass diodes. Bypass diodes allow the circulation of the current of the most productive cell of a set of cells connected in parallel, improving the output generation. A current supply element 4 is preferred over bypass diodes as bypass diodes impede the production of the least productive set of cells; and because a photovoltaic cell assembly in which the power electronic control components are bypass diodes has higher electrical losses than an assembly in which said components are power supply elements. The electric configuration of the cells will be further described according to the second aspect of the disclosure.

[0083] The photovoltaic cell assembly may further comprise a cooling system according to any of the examples herein, e.g according to any of the examples described in relation to the second aspect of this disclosure. Figures 5A and 5B schematically illustrate examples of the second aspect of the present disclosure. Analogous elements to elements of the first aspect of the present disclosure have been represented with analogous reference signs.

[0084] The photovoltaic cell assembly 100 of Figures 5A and 5B comprise a plurality of sets 11 of photovoltaic cells 1 . Each set 11 of cells comprises a plurality of cells 1 . Each set forms a row of cells, placed one after another. The cells of each row may be in contact with each other. Each cell has an exposed surface 110 for acceptance of solar radiation. The plurality of cells of each one of the set of cells is connected in parallel. The plurality of sets 11 of cells are electrically connected in series.

[0085] In the example, the photovoltaic cell assembly 100 is a dense array assembly of a reflective photovoltaic system. In this example, the ratio of active cell area of the photovoltaic cell assembly in relation to the total surface area of the photovoltaic cell assembly is higher than 95%, specifically higher than 98%. The photovoltaic cell assembly 100 of the second aspect comprises a cooling system 6. The cooling system helps to reduce a non-uniformity temperature between cells. In addition, the cooling system 6 improves the dissipation of heat on the cells. This dissipation is more relevant in reflective photovoltaic systems, which have a higher irradiation area than refractive photovoltaic systems The cooling system 6 cools the plurality of sets 11 of cells. The cooling system comprises a plurality of cooling units 61 . Each cooling unit is configured to cool one of the sets 11 of cells. Each of the sets 11 of cells is cooled by a cooling unit 61. Each cooling unit 61 comprises a channel 62 for conducting a cooling fluid.

[0086] Contrary to refractive photovoltaic system, the irradiated area in reflective photovoltaic systems is generally higher. This may involve a higher temperature in the photovoltaic system assembly. The cooling system may thus be used to the for reducing this high temperature. The excess of heat caused by the greater irradiated area may thus be compensated by the cooling system according to the present disclosure.

[0087] As explained above, in dense array assemblies, the photovoltaic cells are densely packed and there is a high ratio of cell area in the photovoltaic cell assembly than in other systems less densely packed. Accordingly, contrary to other configurations, dense array assemblies may not be able to passively dissipate an excess of heat. For this reason, the cooling system of the present disclosure may be particularly advantageously for dense array assemblies.

[0088] During the operation of a photovoltaic cell assembly 100, the cells on the assembly receive a non-uniform irradiance distribution. Non-uniform irradiance distributions are common in concentrating photovoltaic cell assemblies, where concentrators are used. An irradiance variation between cells connected in series generates a current imbalance that restricts the maximum current of the cells to the value corresponding to the cell experiencing the lowest solar irradiance. The parallel connection of cells forming sets of cells minimizes this issue.

[0089] A non-uniform illumination also entails temperature non-uniformities between cells. Temperature non-uniformities in the cells may imply thermal fatigue and may reduce the energy generation effectivity of the photovoltaic cell assembly.

[0090] A set of cells connected in parallel share the same voltage. A temperature nonuniformity between cells connected in parallel entails a voltage mismatch between the cells of the set. This may affect the energy conversion efficiency of the assembly. In addition, a parallel connection between cells may increase the temperature of the cells more than if the cells were connected in series. The cooling system of the present disclosure allows each set of cells, in which the cells are connected in parallel, to be cooled by a different channel 62. Therefore, the plurality of cells in the set 11 are cooled uniformly. Consequently, the cooling of the system is optimized. The cooling described, with each cooling unit cooling the cells of a set of cells connected in parallel, is cheaper than an individualized cooling unit for each cell, while being able to cool the cells efficiently. A cost-efficient cooling system may thus be obtained.

[0091] The channels 62 of each of the cooling units 61 are substantially parallel to the corresponding plurality of cells. In the example shown in Figures 5A and 5B, the channels 62, the supports 81 and the set 11 of cells extend in the longitudinal direction 720.

[0092] In addition, the cooling system 6 of these examples enables more efficient control of the refrigeration of the cells in the assembly. In an example, a controller is placed in the photovoltaic cell assembly 100 to control each of the cooling units 61 independently. An individualized control for each set of cells allows the regulation of the flow and temperature of the cooling fluid in order to adapt it to the temperature of the cells.

[0093] In these figures, each of the sets 11 of cells is connected to a current supply element 4 configured to regulate the voltage of each set of cells by injecting current. In an example, current supply elements 4, such as DC / DC converters, are placed electrically connected in parallel with a set 11 of cells, and therefore electrically connected in parallel with a plurality of cells electrically connected in parallel. Current supply elements 4 supply additional current to each parallel connection until a predetermined current value is obtained, without decreasing the operating voltage of the set 11 of cells. In an example, the current supply elements 4 are DC / DC converters.

[0094] Figures 5A and 5B show four sets 11 of cells. Each set 11 of cells comprises four photovoltaic cells. The cells in each set 11 form a row of cells, placed one after another. The cells in each row are shown in contact with each other. The photovoltaic cell assembly 100 of this example further comprises a plurality of current supply elements 4. Contrary to the examples of the first aspect, these current supply elements are connected to the cells of a set 11 of cells via electrical cabling. In further examples of the photovoltaic cell assembly, the current supply elements 4 may be connected according to any of the examples of the first aspect. Figure 5A shows four current supply elements 4 connected to each one of the sets 11a, 11 b, 11c, 11d of cells 1. In this example, the positive poles of the cells are connected via cabling to the positive pole of the current supply element 4 and the negative poles of the cells are connected via cabling to the positive pole of the current supply element 4.

[0095] As the sets of cells are connected in series, the positive pole of a set of cells has the same voltage as the negative pole of the subsequent set of cells. In the example shown in Figure 5B, the positive poles of a set of cells are connected to the positive pole of a current supply element and to the negative pole of a subsequent current supply element.

[0096] In an example, the first set 11a or the last set 11d may not comprise a current supply element 4. Figure 5B shows three current supply elements. In an example, the photovoltaic cell assembly 100 may comprise a dielectric element 5, such as the dielectric layer on Figure 5B. The number of current supply elements is independent from the presence of a dielectric layer.

[0097] In an example, at least one cell of each set of cells is connected in series with at least one cell of a consecutive set of cells. In an example, the photovoltaic cell assembly comprises one or more bus bars 18, arranged between an upper surface of at least one cell of each set of cells and the lower surface of at least one cell of a consecutive set of cells, such as described in relation with the first aspect of the disclosure.

[0098] Figures 6A and 6B illustrate a diagram of the electrical connection according to an example of the second aspect of the present disclosure. The electrical connection of these figures may also be applied to the first aspect of the present disclosure.

[0099] Figures 6A and 6B show a plurality of sets of cells 1 electrically connected in series. An electrical connection of the sets of cells in series increases the resultant output voltage of the photovoltaic cell assembly. At least one of each set of cells is connected in series with at least one cell of a consecutive set of cells. The cells in each set of cells are connected in parallel, so that the resultant current of each set of cells is higher than the current of only one cell. The connection described herein is a parallel-series connection. In an example, the output of the photovoltaic cell assembly may be connected to other photovoltaic cell assembly. In an example, photovoltaic cell assemblies can be interconnected to a shared DC bus to later transmit the energy to an inverter 17.

[0100] In the examples of Figures 6A and 6B, the current supply element 4 is a DC / DC converter. The DC / DC converter is connected in parallel with each set of cells. In an example, the DC / DC converter is configured to supply current corresponding to the current mismatch between the current generated by the cells of a set of cells connected in parallel and a current corresponding to the maximum power point of the photovoltaic cell assembly. This predetermined value also depends on the type of photovoltaic cell and the connection between cells.

[0101] The injection of current to the set of cells with irradiance non-uniformities allows the current of the set of cells to be equal to the current of the set of cells with a higher current. Therefore, the energy conversion efficiency of the photovoltaic cell assembly is increased.

[0102] The connection shown in Figure 6A is analogous to the connection in Figure 6B. In both Figures, each DC / DC converter is electrically connected between the positive pole (+) of one set of cells and the positive pole (+) of a consecutive set of cells, as the positive pole (+) of a set of cells has the same voltage as the negative pole (-) of a subsequent set of cells. Figure 6B illustrates a simplified connection.

[0103] In an example, part of the output current generated by the photovoltaic cell assembly is used by the current supply elements to supply current to each of the sets of cells.

[0104] As explained before, the photovoltaic cell assembly according to the first and / or the second aspect may comprise the electrical configuration of any of Figures 6A and 6B.

[0105] Figure 7 illustrates an example of a photovoltaic cell assembly 100 according to the first and / or the second aspect of the present disclosure. The photovoltaic cell assembly 100 comprises a cooling system 6. The use of a cooling system 6 to cool the cells improves maintaining a low and uniform temperature in the cell assembly.

[0106] In the example of Figure 7, the cooling system 6 comprises a plurality of cooling units 61. The separate cooling of each set of cells has the advantage that it does not generate large temperature gradients along the coolant flow path and does not generate high-pressure drops that can imply high pumping power.

[0107] In this figure, each cooling unit 61 comprises a cooling channel 62 for conducting a cooling fluid. Each cooling unit 61 is configured to cool one of the sets 11 of cells. Therefore, each of the sets 11 of cells is configured to be cooled by a cooling unit. Consequently, each of the sets 11 of cells is cooled by the cooling fluid on its corresponding cooling channel 62. Cooling by cooling units allows each set of cells to be cooled uniformly.

[0108] The photovoltaic cell assembly 100 comprises a structure 8. The structure comprises a base 80 and a plurality of supports 81 protruding from the base 8. The base 80 comprises a right leg arranged at the base right side 801 , and a left leg arranged at the base left side 802. The supports 81 extend in the longitudinal direction 720 from a base right side to a base left side. Each of the supports 81 supports a set of cells and comprises one of the cooling units 61. Each of the cooling channels 62 extends longitudinally along the corresponding support 81. In the example of Figure 7, the cooling channels 62 are placed inside the corresponding support 81.

[0109] The cooling system of this figure comprises an inlet portion 601 placed on the base 80 of the structure 8 and an outlet portion 602 placed on the base 80 of the structure 8. Each of the channels 62 of each of the cooling units 61 are fl uidically connected to the inlet portion 601 of the cooling system and to the outlet portion 602 of the cooling system 6. In the example of Figure 7, the outlet portion 602 of the cooling system is placed on the left leg of the base 80 of the structure 8, and the inlet portion 601 (not shown in this figure) of the cooling system is placed in the right leg of the base 80 of the structure 8.

[0110] The cooling fluid is introduced into the inlet portion 601 of the cooling system 6 and distributed to each of the cooling units 61. In an example, the introduction of cooling fluid into the inlet portion 601 is by pumping. A pump system may force cooling fluid to flow from cooling reservoir to the inlet portion 601. Then, the cooling fluid is flown through the channels 62 of the cooling units 61 . The set of cells of that is thus cooled by the flow of the cooling fluid through channels 62. Finally, the cooling fluid is directed to the outlet portion 602 of the cooling system 6 from each of the cooling units 61 after having cooled the cells.

[0111] In the example, the photovoltaic cell assembly 100 comprises a plurality of electrically conductive elements 2. The electrically conductive elements may be according to any of the examples herein, e.g. as described in accordance with the first aspect of the disclosure. The photovoltaic cell assembly 100 of this example, is a dense array photovoltaic assembly. Each of the supports 81 holds or supports one of the electrically conductive elements 2. The electrically conductive elements 2 comprise an upper portion 200. The cells of each of the sets 11 of cells are mounted on the upper portion of one of the electrically conductive elements so that each of the electrically conductive elements 2 holds one set of the plurality of sets. The electrically conductive elements 2 are substantially parallel to their corresponding supports 81 and the corresponding set 11 of cells. Each of the upper portions 200 is electrically connected to the corresponding set 11 of cells. Consequently, the cooling fluid flowing in the cooling channels 62 contacts the electrically conductive element 2. The cooling fluid may thus efficiently cool the cells mounted on the electrically conductive element.

[0112] In an example, the base 80 comprises wedge-shaped sections 87 to support a lower portion of the walls 203, 204 of the electrically conductive elements 2. The lower portion of the walls 203, 204 may engage the wedge-shape sections 87. The electrically conductive elements may thus be supported by the wedge-shaped sections. Consequently, these wedge-shaped sections improve the stability of the electrically conductive elements 2.

[0113] In addition, the electrically conductive element 2 can comprise an electrical terminal 24 electrically connected to the upper portion 200 such as described in accordance with any of the examples herein, e.g. according to any of the examples of the first aspect of the disclosure. A current supply element 4 of each of the set of cells can be connected to the electrical terminal of its corresponding electrically conductive element.

[0114] In an example, the electrically conductive elements may further comprise thermal fins configured to be in contact with the channel. The thermal fins may increment the contact surface between the cooling fluid in the channel upper section 625 and the electrically conductive element 2.

[0115] Figures 8 and 9 illustrate cross-sectional views of an example of the cooling system 6 in which the electrically conductive element 2 is engaged with its corresponding support 81 . The channel 62 of each one of the cooling units 61 is defined by the engagement between each one of the electrically conductive elements and their corresponding supports 81 supporting the electrically conductive elements. The engagement of the electrically conductive element and its corresponding support defines the cooling channel 62. The electrically conductive element of this example forms the external walls of the cooling channel. In this example, the electrically conductive element 2 comprises a U-shaped cross-section. The U-shaped cross-section closes the support 81 to create the cooling channel 62. The upper portion 200, the first side wall 203 and the second side wall 204 together with the supports defines the cooling channel. The upper portion 200 comprises an inner surface and an outer surface. The cells may be directly mounted on the outer surface of the upper portion. The cooling fluid may thus directly cool the inner surface of the upper portion. As the set of cells may be mounted on the outer surface, the set of cells may be efficiently cooled. The thickness between the inner and the outer surface of the upper portion 200 may be selected to minimize the thermal resistance coefficient while ensuring acceptable mechanical properties.

[0116] Figure 8 illustrates the inlet portion 601 of the cooling system 6, viewed from the right side of the assembly. Figure 9 illustrates the section of the channels 62 of the cooling system corresponding to a middle section of the assembly in the longitudinal direction, viewed from the left side of the assembly. Therefore, the inlet portion 601 and the outlet portion 602 of the cooling system are not visible in Figure 9. Figure 8 illustrates the gap 807 between two consecutive electrically conductive elements 2. The gap 807 generates an isolation that further facilitates the series connection between sets of cells. The concentrating photovoltaic cell assembly may further comprise a dielectric element placed in the gap 807 to improve this isolation.

[0117] Figure 8 also illustrates the wedge-shaped sections 87 of the base 80. The lower end 206 of the right side wall 203 of an electrically conductive element 2 and the left side wall 204 of a consecutive electrically conductive element 2 are placed in the wedge- shaped section 87 to hold the electrically conductive elements tightly. The gap 681 between the side walls 203, 204 of the electrically conductive element 2 and the wall of the wedge-shaped section 87 can comprise glue or other fixing elements to further fix the electrically conductive element 2 in the wedge-shaped section 87.

[0118] Figure 8 illustrates the connection between cells of consecutive sets 11 of cells. An upper surface 105 of a cell 1 is connected with a lower surface 106 of a consecutive cell. The upper surface 105 of the first side 103 of the cell 1 is connected to the lower surface 106 of the second side 104 of two consecutive cells. A bus bar 18 may be placed between the upper surface 105 of the first side 103 and the lower surface 106 of second side 104.

[0119] This superposition of a previous cell with a subsequent cell generates a decrease of the height of the cell in relation with the ground along the transversal direction 730. In an example, the structure 8 has a slope 817 to compensate the increase in height due to the superposition of cells by their bus bars. This slope avoids the use of adapters between the cells and the electrically conductive elements to compensate for this decrease in height that may worsen the electrical connection between the electrically conductive element 2 and its corresponding set 11 of cells 1. In another example, instead of a slope, the electrically conductive elements may have different heights between them, or the supports 81 may have different heights between them.

[0120] In this example, the channels 62 of each of the cooling units comprise a channel upper section 625. The channel upper section 625 is the section of the channel 62 that is in contact with the electrically conductive element 2 where the cells are mounted. Each of the channel upper sections 625 extends longitudinally along the corresponding support, substantially parallel to the plurality of cells of each one of the sets of cells. The channels comprise a channel distribution section 620. The channel distribution section 620 distributes cooling fluid to the channel upper section 625 of each of the cooling units. As illustrated in Figure 8, the cooling fluid is introduced into the channel distribution section 620 of each cooling unit through a passage 6018 and distributed to the channel upper section 625, where the cooling fluid refrigerates the cells. In an example, the cooling fluid is then directed through the length in the longitudinal direction 720 of channel upper section 625 to refrigerate the set 11 of cells of the corresponding cooling unit 61. Therefore, the cells of the set of cells, which form a row, are refrigerated. The utilization of liquid cooling is preferred over air-cooled systems due to having higher specific heat capacity. In an example, the cooling fluid is a dielectric fluid.

[0121] In the example of Figure 8, each one of the channels comprises two guiding blocks 63. The channel distribution section 620 of each cooling unit 61 is defined by the aperture between the guiding blocks 63. The channel distribution section 620 distributes the cooling fluid until the channel upper section 625 of each of the cooling units, in a height direction 710 from downwards to upwards. In an example, each of the channel distribution sections 620 extends longitudinally along the corresponding support, substantially parallel to the plurality of cells of each one of the sets of cells. Therefore, the channel distribution section 620 distributes the cooling fluid in a height direction 710 from downwards to upwards in different points along the longitudinal extension of the channel distribution section 620.

[0122] The channel of each of the cooling units of this example further comprises channel guiding sections in fluidic connection with the channel upper section 625. These channel guiding sections are side channel guiding sections 623, 624 placed in a side of the channel. The channel 62 of each of the cooling units may comprise two side channel guiding sections 623, 624. The side channel guiding sections 623, 624 may be placed symmetrically to the channel distribution section 620. Accordingly, the cooling unit may comprise a first side channel guiding section 623 and a second side channel guiding section 624. The cooling fluid is distributed from the channel distribution section 620 to the channel upper section 625 to cool the cells. When the cooling fluid reaches channel upper section 625, the inner surface of the upper portion of the electrically conductive elements directs the cooling fluid to the side channel guiding sections 623, 624 after cooling the cells. Consequently, the flow is distributed evenly to both channels guiding sections 623, 624.

[0123] As explained before, the channel 62 of this figure is defined by the engagement of the electrically conductive element 2 with the support 81. The upper portion 200, the first side wall 203 and the second side wall 204 of the electrically conductive elements 2 define the section of the channels 62. The guiding block 63 may comprise a first guiding block member and a second guiding block member. An aperture between the guiding block members directs the cooling fluid towards the channel upper sections 625.

[0124] The channel guiding section 623, 624 is defined by the engagement between one of the first side wall 203 or second side wall 204 of each one of the electrically conductive elements 2 and their corresponding supports 81 supporting the electrically conductive elements. In this example, the first side channel guiding section 623 is defined by the space between the first side wall 203 of the electrically conductive element 2 and the first guiding block member. The second side channel guiding section 624 is defined by the space between the second side wall 204 of the electrically conductive element 2 and the second guiding block member. The channel upper section 625 is defined by the space between the upper portion 200 of the electrically conductive element 2, the side channel guiding sections 623, 624 and the channel distribution section 620.

[0125] In another example, the channels 62 may comprise a single guiding block 63. In this example, the channel distribution section 620 is defined by the gap between a wall 203, 204 and the guiding block 63 and the channel guiding section is defined by the gap between the other wall 203, 204 and the guiding block 63. In alternative examples, the channels can comprise more or none guiding blocks, and more or none side channel guiding sections.

[0126] Figure 10 illustrates an example of the structure 8 according to an example of the first and / or the second aspect. In this example, the channel distribution sections 620, extend in the longitudinal direction 720. The side channel guiding sections 623, 624 may also extend in the longitudinal direction 720.

[0127] The channel distribution section 620 is connected to the channel upper section 625 through a slot. The slot generates a screen-shaped pattern of the cooling fluid through the longitudinal extension of the channel distribution section 620 towards the channel upper section 625 in the height direction 710. In other examples, instead of the slot, the cooling unit may comprise a set of nozzles distributed in the longitudinal direction of the channel distribution section from a right side to a left side, each nozzle being in fluid connection with the channel distribution section of each cooling unit 61 . This type of arrangement may be defined as a jet impingement cooling system. The nozzles allow the jet of the cooling fluid to be directed towards into the channel upper section 625. The placement of a set of nozzles along the longitudinal direction of the channel distribution section 620 enables the vertical impulse of cooling fluid in the height direction during the longitudinal extension of the channel distribution section 620. Alternatively, the cooling system comprises pumps to allow jets of cooling fluid into the channel upper section 625.

[0128] The cooling fluid is introduced to lower part of the channel distribution section 620 through the inlet portion 601 . The cooling fluid flows through the length of the lower part of the channel distribution section 620 in the longitudinal direction 720 from a first side of the channel distribution section to a second side of the channel distribution section. The increase in pressure of the cooling fluid in the channel distribution section 620 causes a vertical flow of the cooling fluid, in the height direction 710, towards the electrically conductive element. The increase in pressure can be due to the pressure the cooling fluid entered the channel distribution section, an external pump that introduces the cooling fluid into the inlet portion 601 of the cooling system, nozzles placed in the cooling units, a vacuum pump, etc. After reaching the channel upper section 625, the cooling fluid impacts the electrically conductive element 2, and it exits through the side channel guiding sections 623, 624. The cooling fluid, already heated by the thermal contact with the cells, is directed through the guiding sections 623, 624 in the longitudinal direction 720 until reaching the outlet portion 602 of the cooling system. As the cooling fluid is directed in the height direction 710, the cells of the set of cells are cooled more uniformly than other cooling systems, e.g. by microchannels, in which the cooling fluid flows in the parallel direction from the cells, i.e. the longitudinal direction 720, and the cooling fluid is heated during its movement, which implies that the cells at the output of the channel have more temperature than the cells at the input of the channel. The proposed design reaches higher temperature uniformity compared to other cooling systems.

[0129] For reasons of completeness, various aspects of the present disclosure are set out in the following numbered clauses: Clause 1. A photovoltaic cell assembly (100), comprising:

[0130] A plurality of sets (11) of photovoltaic cells (1), each set (11) of cells comprising a plurality of cells, each cell having an exposed surface for acceptance of solar radiation, a plurality of electrically conductive elements (2), wherein each of the electrically conductive elements comprises an upper portion (200), wherein the cells of each of the sets (11) of cells are mounted on the upper portion (200) of one of the electrically conductive elements (2) so that each of the electrically conductive elements (2) holds one set of the plurality of sets, and wherein each of the upper portions is electrically connected to the set of cells mounted therein, a plurality of electrical terminals (24), wherein each of the electrical terminals is electrically connected to the upper portion (200) of one of the electrically conductive elements; wherein the electrical terminal extends beyond the upper portion, and a structure (8) comprising a base (80) and a plurality of supports (81) protruding from the base, each of the supports (81) supporting one of the electrically conductive elements (2).

[0131] Clause 2. A photovoltaic cell assembly according to clause 1 , wherein the base (80) of the structure comprises a base right leg (801) and a base left leg (802), the right leg and the left leg being connected by the plurality of supports (81), optionally the right leg being arranged at a base right side and the left leg arranged at a base left side.

[0132] Clause 3. A photovoltaic cell assembly according to clause 2, wherein the electrical terminals (24) are arranged between the legs (801 , 802) of the base.

[0133] Clause 4. A photovoltaic cell assembly according to any of clauses 2 or 3, wherein the supports (81) extend in a longitudinal direction from a base right side to a base left side of the base.

[0134] Clause 5. A photovoltaic cell assembly according to any of clauses 1 to 4, wherein the electrically conductive element (2) extends in the longitudinal direction from a base right side to a base left side.

[0135] Clause 6. A photovoltaic cell assembly according to clause 5, wherein the photovoltaic cells (1) of each set (11) extend in the longitudinal direction, optionally from a right side to a left side of the electrically conductive element (2). Clause 7. A photovoltaic cell assembly according to any of clauses 1 to 6, wherein each of the electrical terminals extends beyond the corresponding support in a direction opposite to the photovoltaic cells.

[0136] Clause 8. A photovoltaic cell assembly according to any of clauses 1 to 7, wherein the supports comprises a support central part between a base right side and a right left side, wherein the support central part comprises a lower portion (816) of the support central part, and wherein the electrical terminals (24) extend beyond the lower portion 816 of the support central part of its corresponding support (81) in a direction opposite to the photovoltaic cells (1).

[0137] Clause 9. A photovoltaic cell assembly according to any of clauses 1 to 8, wherein each of the electrically conductive elements further comprises a first side wall (203) and a second side wall (204), the first side wall and the second side wall extending from an upper end (205) thereof to a lower end (206) thereof, the upper end of the first side wall and the upper end of the second side wall being electrically connected to the upper portion (200) of the electrically conductive element (2).

[0138] Clause 10. A photovoltaic cell assembly according to clause 9, wherein the electrically conductive elements comprise a U-shaped cross-section, defined by the first side wall (203), the second side wall (204) and the upper portion (200) thereof.

[0139] Clause 11. A photovoltaic cell assembly according to any of clauses 9 to 10, wherein the electrical terminals are arranged at the lower end of the first side wall of its corresponding electrically conductive element.

[0140] Clause 12. A photovoltaic cell assembly according to any of clauses 9 to 11 , wherein the supports comprises a support central part between a base right side and a right left side, wherein the support central part comprises a lower portion (816) of the support central part, and wherein the lower end (206) of the first side wall (203) of each of the electrically conductive elements (2) extends below the lower portion (816) of its corresponding support (81).

[0141] Clause 13. A photovoltaic cell assembly according to any of clauses 9 to 12, wherein the first side wall (203) is longer than the second side wall (204).

[0142] Clause 14. A photovoltaic cell assembly according to any of clauses 9 to 13, wherein the electrical terminals (24) are arranged in protruding sections (2031) of the lower end (206) of the first side walls (203) of the electrically conductive elements.

[0143] Clause 15. A photovoltaic cell assembly according to any of clauses 9 to 14, wherein a protruding section (2031) of the lower end (206) of the first side wall (203) extends below the surface of its corresponding support (81).

[0144] Clause 16. A photovoltaic cell assembly according to any of clauses 1 to 15, wherein the plurality of cells of each of the set of cells are electrically connected in parallel.

[0145] Clause 17. A photovoltaic cell assembly according to clause 16, wherein the plurality of cells of each of the set of cells is electrically connected in parallel with the upper portion of its corresponding electrically conductive element.

[0146] Clause 18. A photovoltaic cell assembly according to any of clauses 1 to 17, wherein at least one of the electrical terminals (24) is electrically connected in parallel with an electrical terminal of at least one consecutive electrically conductive element.

[0147] Clause 19. A photovoltaic cell assembly according to any of clauses 1 to 18, wherein the plurality of sets of cells are electrically connected in series.

[0148] Clause 20. A photovoltaic cell assembly according to clause 19, wherein at least one cell (1) of each set (11) of cells is connected in series with at least one cell (1) of a consecutive set (1) of cells.

[0149] Clause 21. A photovoltaic cell assembly according to any of clauses 1 to 20, wherein the photovoltaic cell assembly (100) comprises one or more bus bars (18), the bus bars being arranged between an upper portion of at least one cell of each set of cells and the lower portion of at least one cell of a consecutive set of cells.

[0150] Clause 22. A photovoltaic cell assembly according to any clause 21 , wherein one or more bus bars (18) are welded or electrically bonded to the upper portion of the cell and / or the lower portion of the consecutive cell (1).

[0151] Clause 23. A photovoltaic cell assembly according to any of clauses 1 to 22, wherein the plurality of electrical terminals (24) are configured to be connected to a power electronic control component to regulate the voltage and / or the current outputted by each of the sets of cells.

[0152] Clause 24. A photovoltaic cell assembly according to clause 23, wherein at least one of the electrical terminals is connected to the power electronic control component so that the power electronic control component is electrically connected in parallel with the cells of the set of cells mounted on the upper portion of the corresponding electrically conductive element.

[0153] Clause 25. A photovoltaic cell assembly according to any of clauses 23 or 24, wherein the power electronic control component is a bypass diode.

[0154] Clause 26. A photovoltaic cell assembly according to any of clauses 23 or 24, wherein the power electronic control component is a current supply element (4) to regulate the voltage of each set of cells by injecting current.

[0155] Clause 27. A photovoltaic cell assembly according to clause 26, wherein the current supply element (4) is a DC / DC converter.

[0156] Clause 28. A photovoltaic cell assembly according to clause 27, wherein the DC / DC converter is configured to supply current corresponding to the current mismatch between the current generated by the cells of a set of cells connected in parallel and a current corresponding to the maximum power point of the photovoltaic cell assembly.

[0157] Clause 29. A photovoltaic cell assembly according to any of clauses 23 to 28, wherein the power electronic control component is connected between the electrical terminal (24) electrically connected to two consecutive electrically conductive elements (2).

[0158] Clause 30. A photovoltaic cell assembly according to any of clauses 1 to 29, wherein the electrically conductive elements (2) are metallic elements, and wherein the electrically conductive elements optionally comprise copper and / or aluminium.

[0159] Clause 31. A photovoltaic cell assembly according to any of clauses 1 to 30, wherein each of the supports (81) are made of a dielectric material, optionally comprising plastic.

[0160] Clause 32. A photovoltaic cell assembly according to any of clauses 1 to 31 , wherein the photovoltaic cell assembly comprises a gap (807) between two consecutive electrically conductive elements (2).

[0161] Clause 33. A photovoltaic cell assembly according to clause 32, wherein the photovoltaic cell assembly comprises a dielectric element placed in the gap (807).

[0162] Clause 34. A photovoltaic cell assembly according to any of clauses 1 to 33, wherein the base (8) is electrically isolated from each of the electrically conductive elements (2).

[0163] Clause 35. A photovoltaic cell assembly according to any of clauses 1 to 34, wherein each of the plurality of supports (81) comprises a dielectric element placed between the electrically conductive element (2) and the support (81).

[0164] Clause 36. A photovoltaic cell assembly according to clause 35, wherein the dielectric element is a dielectric fluid.

[0165] Clause 37. A photovoltaic cell assembly according to any of clauses 1 to 36, wherein each of the electrically conductive elements (2) engages the corresponding support (81).

[0166] Clause 38. A photovoltaic cell assembly according to any of clauses 1 to 37, wherein the photovoltaic cell assembly comprises a cooling system (6) to cool the plurality of sets of cells.

[0167] Clause 39. A photovoltaic cell assembly according to clause 38, wherein the cooling system (6) comprises a plurality of cooling units (61).

[0168] Clause 40. A photovoltaic cell assembly according to clause 39, wherein each of the cooling units (61) comprises a channel (62) for conducting a cooling fluid.

[0169] Clause 41 . A photovoltaic cell assembly according to any of clauses 39 or 40, wherein each of the cooling units (61) is configured to cool the cells of a set (11) of cells mounted in one of the electrically conductive elements (2) of the photovoltaic cell assembly.

[0170] Clause 42. A photovoltaic cell assembly according to any of clauses 39 to 41 , wherein each of the electrically conductive elements (2) engages the corresponding support (81), the channel (62) of each one of the cooling units (61) is defined by the engagement between each one of the electrically conductive elements (2) and their corresponding supports (61) supporting the electrically conductive elements.

[0171] Clause 43. A photovoltaic cell assembly according to any of clauses 40 to 42, wherein the channels (62) of each of the cooling units (61) comprise:

[0172] - A channel upper section (625),

[0173] - A channel distribution section (620) to distribute the cooling fluid from the inlet portion of the cooling system to the channel upper section of each of the cooling units.

[0174] Clause 44. A photovoltaic cell assembly according to clause 43, wherein the supports extend along a longitudinal direction from a base right side to a base left side, and wherein each of the channel distribution sections extends longitudinally along the corresponding support.

[0175] Clause 45. A photovoltaic cell assembly according to clauses 43 or 44, wherein the supports extend along a longitudinal direction from a base right side to a base left side, and wherein each of the channel upper sections extends longitudinally along the corresponding support.

[0176] Clause 46. A photovoltaic cell assembly according to any of clauses 43 to 45, wherein the channel distribution section 620 is connected to the channel upper section 625 through a slot.

[0177] Clause 47. A photovoltaic cell assembly according to any of clauses 43 to 46, wherein each channel (62) comprises a guiding block (63).

[0178] Clause 48. A photovoltaic cell assembly according to any of clauses 43 to 47, wherein each channel (62) comprises two guiding blocks (63), the channel distribution section (620) of each cooling unit being defined by the aperture between the guiding blocks.

[0179] Clause 49. A photovoltaic cell assembly according to any of clauses 40 to 48, wherein the electrically conductive element further comprises thermal fins configured to be in contact with the channel.

[0180] Clause 50. A photovoltaic cell assembly according to any of clauses 43 to 49, wherein the channel (62) of each of the cooling units (61) further comprises a channel guiding section (623, 624) in fluidic connection with the channel upper section (625), so that the cooling fluid distributed from the channel distribution section (620) to the channel upper section (625) to cool the cells is discharged from the channel upper section (625) to the channel guiding section (623, 624) after cooling the cells.

[0181] Clause 51. A photovoltaic cell assembly according to clause 50, wherein the channel of each of the cooling units (61) comprises two channel guiding sections (623, 624).

[0182] Clause 52. A photovoltaic cell assembly according to clause 51 , wherein the channel guiding sections (623, 624) are placed symmetrically to the channel distribution section (620).

[0183] Clause 53. A photovoltaic cell assembly according to any of clauses 50 to 52, wherein the channel guiding section (623, 624) is defined by the engagement between one of the first side wall (203) or second side wall (204) of each one of the electrically conductive elements (2) and their corresponding supports (81) supporting the electrically conductive elements.

[0184] Clause 54. A photovoltaic cell assembly according to any of clauses 39 to 53, wherein the cooling system (6) further comprises:

[0185] - An inlet portion (601), the inlet portion being placed on the base of the structure,

[0186] - An outlet portion (602), the outlet portion being placed on the base of the structure,

[0187] Wherein each of the channels of each of the cooling units are fluidically connected to the inlet portion of the cooling system and to the outlet portion of the cooling system.

[0188] Clause 55. A photovoltaic cell assembly according to clause 54, wherein the base (80) of the structure comprises a base right leg (801) arranged at the base right side, and a base left leg (802) arranged at the base left side, the base right leg and the base left leg being connected by the plurality of supports (81), and wherein the inlet portion (601) of the cooling system is placed in the base right leg (801) of the base of the structure and the outlet portion (602) of the cooling system is placed on the base left leg (802) of the base of the structure. Clause 56. A photovoltaic cell assembly according to any of clauses 38 to 55, wherein the cooling fluid is a dielectric fluid.

[0189] Clause 57. A photovoltaic cell assembly according to any of clauses 39 to 56, wherein the cooling system comprises a jet impingement cooling system, each of the cooling units comprising a set of nozzles distributed in a longitudinal direction from a right side to a left side, each nozzle being in fluid connection with the channel distribution section of each cooling unit.

[0190] Clause 58. A photovoltaic cell assembly according to clause 59, wherein the channel distribution section of each of the cooling units is a vertical channel distribution section, the jet being aligned with the distribution channel so that the jet is incident to at least a portion of the upper portion of the electrically conductive element where the cells of the set of cells are mounted on, so that the flow of the cooling fluid from the jet is subsequently confined by the upper portion of the channel and cools the cells.

[0191] Clause 59. A photovoltaic cell assembly according to any of clauses 1 to 58, wherein the photovoltaic cell assembly is a concentrating photovoltaic cell assembly.

[0192] Clause 60. A photovoltaic cell assembly according to any of clauses 1 to 59, wherein the photovoltaic cell assembly is a dense array photovoltaic cell assembly.

[0193] Clause 61. A photovoltaic cell assembly (100), comprising: a plurality of sets (11) of photovoltaic cells (1), each set of cells comprising a plurality of cells, each cell having an exposed surface for acceptance of solar radiation, the plurality of cells of each of the set of cells being connected in parallel, the plurality of sets of cells being electrically connected in series, each of the set of cells being connected to a current supply element (4) configured to regulate the voltage of each set of cells by injecting current. a cooling system (6) to cool the plurality of sets of cells, the cooling system comprising a plurality of cooling units (61), wherein each cooling unit is configured to cool one of the sets of cells so that each of the sets (11) of cells is configured to be cooled by a cooling unit (61), and wherein each of the cooling units comprises a channel (62) for conducting a cooling fluid, wherein the channels of each of the cooling units are substantially parallel to the corresponding set of cells. Clause 62. A photovoltaic cell assembly, according to clause 61 , wherein the current supply elements (4) are DC / DC converters.

[0194] Clause 63. A photovoltaic cell assembly according to clause 62, wherein the DC / DC converter is configured to supply current corresponding to the current mismatch between the current generated by the cells of a set of cells connected in parallel and a current corresponding to the maximum power point of the photovoltaic cell assembly.

[0195] Clause 64. A photovoltaic cell assembly according to any of clauses 61 to 63, wherein the photovoltaic cell assembly comprises one or more bus bars (18), the bus bars being arranged between an upper portion of at least one cell of each set of cells and the lower portion of at least one cell of a consecutive set of cells.

[0196] Clause 65. A photovoltaic cell assembly according to clause 64, wherein one or more bus bars are welded or electrically bonded to the upper portion of the cell and / or the lower portion of the consecutive cell.

[0197] Clause 66. A photovoltaic cell assembly according any of clauses 61 to 65, wherein at least one cell of each set of cells is connected in series with at least one cell of a consecutive set of cells.

[0198] Clause 67. A photovoltaic cell assembly according to any of clauses 61 to 66, wherein the channels (62) of each of the cooling units comprise: a channel upper section (625), a channel distribution section (620) to distribute cooling fluid to the channel upper section (625) of each of the cooling units (61).

[0199] Clause 68. A photovoltaic cell assembly according to clause 67, wherein each of the channel distribution sections (620) extend substantially parallel to the plurality of cells of each one of the sets of cells.

[0200] Clause 69. A photovoltaic cell assembly according to any of clauses 67 or 68, wherein each of the channel upper sections (625) extend substantially parallel to the plurality of cells of each one of the sets of cells.

[0201] Clause 70. A photovoltaic cell assembly according to any of clauses 67 to 69, The channel distribution section 620 is connected to the channel upper section 625 through a slot.

[0202] Clause 71. A photovoltaic cell assembly according to any of clauses 67 to 70, wherein each channel (62) comprises a guiding block (63).

[0203] Clause 72. A photovoltaic cell assembly according to any of clauses 67 to 71 , wherein each one of the channels comprises two guiding blocks (63), the channel distribution section of each cooling unit being defined by the aperture between the guiding blocks.

[0204] Clause 73. A photovoltaic cell assembly according to any of clauses 67 to 72, wherein the channel of each of the cooling units further comprise a channel guiding section (623, 624) in fluidic connection with the channel upper section (620), so that the cooling fluid distributed from the channel distribution section to the channel upper section to cool the cells is discharged from the channel upper section to the channel guiding section after cooling the cells.

[0205] Clause 74. A photovoltaic cell assembly according to clause 73, wherein the channel of each of the cooling units comprises two channel guiding sections.

[0206] Clause 75. A photovoltaic cell assembly according to clause 74, wherein the channel guiding sections are placed symmetrically to the channel distribution section.

[0207] Clause 76. A photovoltaic cell assembly according to any of clauses 67 to 75, wherein the cooling system comprises a jet impingement cooling system, each of the cooling units comprising a set of nozzles extending in a longitudinal direction from a right side to a left side, each nozzle being in fluid connection with the channel distribution section of each cooling unit.

[0208] Clause 77.A photovoltaic cell assembly according to any of clauses 61 to 76, wherein the photovoltaic cell assembly comprises a structure (8), the structure comprising a base (80) and a plurality of supports (81) protruding from the base, the supports extending in a longitudinal direction from a base right side to a base left side, wherein each of the supports holds a set of cells and comprises one of the cooling units (61).

[0209] Clause 78. A photovoltaic cell assembly according to clause 77, wherein each of the channels extends along the corresponding support in a longitudinal direction. Clause 79. A photovoltaic cell assembly according to any of clauses 77 or 78, wherein the cooling system further comprises: an inlet portion, the inlet portion being placed on the base of the structure, an outlet portion, the outlet portion being placed on the base of the structure, Wherein each of the channels of each of the cooling units are fluidical ly connected to the inlet portion of the cooling system and to the outlet portion of the cooling system.

[0210] Clause 80. A photovoltaic cell assembly according to clause 79, wherein the base comprises a right leg arranged at the base right side, and a left leg arranged at the base left side; and wherein the inlet portion of the cooling system is placed in the right leg of the base of the structure and the outlet portion of the cooling system is placed on the left leg of the base of the structure.

[0211] Clause 81 . A photovoltaic cell assembly according to any of clauses 61 to 80, wherein the cell assembly comprises a plurality of electrically conductive elements (2), wherein each of the electrically conductive elements comprises an upper portion (200), wherein the cells of each of the sets of cells are mounted on the upper portion of one of the electrically conductive elements, wherein each of the upper portions is electrically connected to corresponding set of cells, wherein the photovoltaic cell assembly comprises a plurality of electrical terminals (24) electrically connected to the upper portion of one of the electrically conductive elements, and wherein the current supply element (4) of each set of cells is connected to the electrical terminal of its corresponding electrically conductive element.

[0212] Clause 82. A photovoltaic cell assembly according to clause 81 , wherein the photovoltaic cell assembly comprises a structure, the structure comprising a base and a plurality of supports protruding from the base, each of the supports supporting one of the electrically conductive elements.

[0213] Clause 83. A photovoltaic cell assembly according to clause 82, wherein the electrical terminals are arranged between the legs of the base.

[0214] Clause 84. A photovoltaic cell assembly according to any of clauses 82 or 83, wherein each of the electrical terminals extends beyond the corresponding support in a direction opposite to the photovoltaic cells.

[0215] Clause 85. A photovoltaic cell assembly according to any of clauses 82 to 84, wherein the supports comprises a support central part between a base right side and a right left side, wherein each one of the supports (81) comprises a support central part and a lower portion (816) of the support central part, and wherein the electrical terminals (24) extend beyond the lower portion 816 of the support central part of its corresponding support in a direction opposite to the photovoltaic cells.

[0216] Clause 86. A photovoltaic cell assembly according to any of clauses 81 to 85, wherein the electrically conductive element extends in the longitudinal direction from a base right side to a base left side.

[0217] Clause 87. A photovoltaic cell assembly according to clause 86, wherein the photovoltaic cells of each set extend from a right side to a left side of the electrically conductive element.

[0218] Clause 88. A photovoltaic cell assembly according to any of clauses 81 to 87, wherein each of the electrically conductive elements further comprises a first side wall (203) and a second side wall (204), the first side wall and the second side wall extending from an upper end thereof to a lower end thereof, the upper end of the first side wall and the upper end of the second side wall being electrically connected to the upper portion of the electrically conductive element.

[0219] Clause 89. A photovoltaic cell assembly according to clause 88, wherein the electrically conductive elements comprise a U-shaped cross-section, defined by the first side wall, the second side wall and the upper portion thereof.

[0220] Clause 90. A photovoltaic cell assembly according to any of clauses 88 or 89, wherein the lower end of the first side wall of each of the electrically conductive elements extends below the lower surface of its corresponding support.

[0221] Clause 91 . A photovoltaic cell assembly according to any of clauses 88 to 90, wherein the electrical terminal is arranged at the lower end of the first side wall.

[0222] Clause 92. A photovoltaic cell assembly according to any of clauses 88 to 91 , the supports comprises a support central part between a base right side and a right left side, wherein each one of the supports (81) comprises a support central part and a lower portion (816) of the support central part, and wherein the lower end of the first side wall of each of the electrically conductive elements extends below the lower surface of its corresponding support. Clause 93. A photovoltaic cell assembly according to any of clauses 88 to 92, wherein the first side wall is longer than the second side wall.

[0223] Clause 94. A photovoltaic cell assembly according to clauses 81 to 93, wherein the plurality of cells of each of the set of cells is electrically connected in parallel with the upper portion of its corresponding electrically conductive element.

[0224] Clause 95. A photovoltaic cell assembly according to any of clauses 81 to 94, wherein the current supply element is connected between the electrical terminal of two consecutive electrically conductive elements.

[0225] Clause 96. A photovoltaic cell assembly, according to any of clauses 81 to 95, wherein at least one of the electrical terminals are electrically connected in parallel with an electrical terminal of at least one consecutive electrically conductive element.

[0226] Clause 97. A photovoltaic cell assembly, according to any of clauses 81 to 96, wherein the current supply element is electrically connected in parallel with the cells of the set of cells mounted on the upper portion of the corresponding electrically conductive element.

[0227] Clause 98. A photovoltaic cell assembly according to any of clauses 81 to 97, wherein the concentrating photovoltaic cell assembly comprises a gap (807) between two consecutive electrically conductive elements.

[0228] Clause 99. A photovoltaic cell assembly according to clause 98, wherein the concentrating photovoltaic cell assembly comprises a dielectric element placed in the gap.

[0229] Clause 100. A photovoltaic cell assembly according to any of clauses 81 to 99, wherein the electrically conductive elements are metallic elements, the electrically conductive elements optionally comprise copper and / or aluminium.

[0230] Clause 101. A photovoltaic cell assembly according to any of clauses 81 to 100, wherein each of the cooling units is configured to cool the cells of a set of cells mounted in one of the electrically conductive elements of the photovoltaic cell assembly.

[0231] Clause 102. A photovoltaic cell assembly according to clauses 82 to 101 , wherein each of the supports are made of a dielectric material, optionally comprising plastic.

[0232] Clause 103. A photovoltaic cell assembly according to any of clauses 82 to 102, wherein the base is electrically isolated from each of the electrically conductive elements.

[0233] Clause 104. A photovoltaic cell assembly according to any of clauses 82 to 103, wherein each of the plurality of supports comprises a dielectric element placed between the electrically conductive element and the support.

[0234] Clause 105. A photovoltaic cell assembly according to clause 104, wherein the dielectric element is a dielectric fluid.

[0235] Clause 106. A photovoltaic cell assembly according to any of clauses 82 to 105, wherein each of the electrically conductive elements engages the corresponding support.

[0236] Clause 107. A photovoltaic cell assembly according to clause 106, wherein the channel of each one of the cooling units (61) is defined by the engagement between each one of the electrically conductive elements (2) and their corresponding supports (81) supporting the electrically conductive elements.

[0237] Clause 108. A photovoltaic cell assembly according to any of clauses 88 to 107, wherein the channel of each of the cooling units comprises two channel guiding sections (623, 624), the channel guiding sections being defined by the engagement between one of the first side wall (203) or second side wall (204) of each one of the electrically conductive elements (2) and their corresponding supports supporting the electrically conductive elements.

[0238] Clause 109. A photovoltaic cell assembly according to any of clauses 82 to 108, wherein each of the electrically conductive elements further comprises thermal fins configured to be in contact with the channel.

[0239] Clause 110. A photovoltaic cell assembly according to any of clauses 61 to 109, wherein the channels of each of the cooling units extend on a longitudinal direction.

[0240] Clause 111. A photovoltaic cell assembly according to any of clauses 61 to 110, wherein the cooling fluid is a dielectric fluid. Clause 112. A photovoltaic cell assembly, according to any of clauses 61 to 111 , wherein the photovoltaic cell assembly comprises a dielectric element placed between the plurality of sets of photovoltaic cells and the cooling system.

[0241] Clause 113. A photovoltaic cell assembly according to any of clauses 61 to 112, wherein the photovoltaic cell assembly is a concentrating photovoltaic cell assembly.

[0242] Clause 114. A photovoltaic cell assembly according to any of clauses 61 to 113, wherein the photovoltaic cell assembly is a dense array photovoltaic cell assembly.

[0243] Although only a number of examples have been disclosed herein, other alternatives, modifications, uses and / or equivalents thereof are possible. Furthermore, all possible combinations of the described examples are also covered. Thus, the scope of the present disclosure should not be limited by particular examples but should be determined only by a fair reading of the claims that follow. If reference signs related to drawings are placed in parentheses in a claim, they are solely for attempting to increase the intelligibility of the claim and shall not be construed as limiting the scope of the claim.

Claims

CLAIMS1. A photovoltaic cell assembly (100), comprising:- a plurality of sets (11) of photovoltaic cells (1), each set (11) of cells comprising a plurality of cells, each cell having an exposed surface for acceptance of solar radiation,- a plurality of electrically conductive elements (2), wherein each of the electrically conductive elements comprises an upper portion (200), wherein the cells of each of the sets (11) of cells are mounted on the upper portion (200) of one of the electrically conductive elements (2) so that each of the electrically conductive elements (2) holds one set of the plurality of sets, and wherein each of the upper portions is electrically connected to the set of cells mounted therein,- a plurality of electrical terminals (24), wherein each of the electrical terminals is electrically connected to the upper portion (200) of one of the electrically conductive elements; wherein the electrical terminal extends beyond the upper portion, and- a structure (8) comprising a base (80) and a plurality of supports (81) protruding from the base, each of the supports (81) supporting one of the electrically conductive elements (2).

2. A photovoltaic cell assembly according to claim 1 , wherein the base (80) of the structure comprises a right leg (801) and a left leg (802), the right leg and the left leg being connected by the plurality of supports (81), and wherein the electrical terminals (24) are arranged between the legs (801 , 802) of the base.

3. A photovoltaic cell assembly according to any of claims 1 to 2, wherein each of the electrical terminals extends beyond the corresponding support in a direction opposite to the exposed surface of the photovoltaic cells.

4. A photovoltaic cell assembly according to any of claims 1 to 3, wherein the plurality of cells of each of the sets of cells are electrically connected in parallel with the upper portion of its corresponding electrically conductive element.

5. A photovoltaic cell assembly according to any of claims 1 to 4, wherein the plurality of electrical terminals (24) is configured to be connected to a power electronic control component to regulate the voltage and / or the current outputted by each of thesets of cells.

6. A photovoltaic cell assembly according to claim 5, wherein at least one of the electrical terminals is connected to the power electronic control component so that the power electronic control component is electrically connected in parallel with the cells of the set of cells mounted on the upper portion of the corresponding electrically conductive element.

7. A photovoltaic cell assembly according to any of claims 5 or 6, wherein the power electronic control component is a current supply element (4) to regulate the voltage of each set of cells by injecting current, optionally the current supply element being a DC / DC converter.

8. A photovoltaic cell assembly according to any of claims 1 to 7, wherein each of the supports (81) are made of a dielectric material, optionally comprising plastic.

9. A photovoltaic cell assembly according to any of claims 1 to 8, wherein the photovoltaic cell assembly comprises a gap (807) between two consecutive electrically conductive elements (2).

10. A photovoltaic cell assembly according to any of claims 1 to 9, wherein the base (8) is electrically isolated from each of the electrically conductive elements (2).

11. A photovoltaic cell assembly according to any of claims 1 to 10, wherein each of the plurality of supports (81) comprises a dielectric element placed between the electrically conductive element (2) and the support (81), the dielectric element optionally being a dielectric fluid.

12. A photovoltaic cell assembly according to any of claims 1 to 11 , wherein each of the electrically conductive elements (2) engages the corresponding support (81).

13. A photovoltaic cell assembly according to any of claims 1 to 12, wherein the photovoltaic cell assembly comprises a cooling system (6) to cool the plurality of sets of cells, wherein the cooling system (6) comprises a plurality of cooling units (61), and wherein each of the cooling units (61) comprises a channel (62) for conducting a cooling fluid.

14. A photovoltaic cell assembly according to claim 13, wherein the channels (62) of each of the cooling units (61) comprise:- a channel upper section (625),- a channel distribution section (620) to distribute the cooling fluid from the inlet portion of the cooling system to the channel upper section of each of the cooling units, and- wherein each channel (62) comprises two guiding blocks (63), the channel distribution section (620) of each cooling unit being defined by an aperture between the guiding blocks.

15. A photovoltaic cell assembly according to any of claims 1 to 14, wherein the photovoltaic cell assembly is a dense array photovoltaic cell assembly.

Images