Solar cell module and power generation system

Abstract

The present invention provides a solar cell module comprising: a plurality of cells; an electrode ribbon for connecting the plurality of cells; a sealing unit for sealing the plurality of cells; a frame disposed on one surface of the sealing unit; and a back sheet for supporting the other surface of the sealing unit, wherein the electrode ribbon has a first indicator whose color changes according to a temperature change of the plurality of cells.

Description

Solar cell modules and power generation systems

[0001] The present invention relates to a solar cell module and a power generation system.

[0002] Solar cells, which are attracting attention as an alternative energy source today, are a type of photovoltaic device that converts sunlight into electrical energy using the photoelectric conversion effect. While producing electricity through solar cells, they are also manufactured in the form of modules to maintain durability and reliability for long periods of time.

[0003] Solar modules can fail to generate electricity normally due to defects that occur during the manufacturing of the cells or modules, or failures or defects in the power conversion system after installation, thereby reducing power generation efficiency. Meanwhile, if a solar module is partially obscured, or if a portion of it is deteriorated or damaged, resulting in an output imbalance, a hotspot phenomenon can occur, causing the module to overheat. Hotspots can damage the module's glass or backsheet, reducing power generation efficiency.

[0004] In this way, detecting modules that are not functioning properly in solar power generation is a very important issue, but in the MLPE (Module Level Power Electronics) system that controls power conversion on a module-by-module basis, it is difficult to detect solar modules that are not functioning properly.

[0005] The present invention provides a solar cell module and power generation system that visually displays the temperature of each module in order to check the amount of power generated or the operating status of the solar cell module in a power generation system equipped with an MLPE device. The present invention provides a solar cell module and power generation system that visually displays the temperature of each module in order to check the amount of power generated or the operating status of the solar cell module in a power generation system equipped with an MLPE device.

[0006] One aspect of the present invention provides a solar cell module including a plurality of cells, an electrode ribbon connecting the plurality of cells, a sealing unit sealing the plurality of cells, a frame disposed on one surface of the sealing unit, and a back sheet supporting the other surface of the sealing unit, wherein the electrode ribbon has a first indicator whose color changes according to a temperature change of the plurality of cells.

[0007] A solar cell module according to an embodiment of the present invention can easily check the power generation amount or operating status of the module with the naked eye by using an indicator that changes color when detecting a change in temperature of the module.

[0008] The solar cell module according to an embodiment of the present invention can quickly determine whether there is a failure or defect without using a separate diagnostic device or communication device, thereby improving productivity and efficiency and enabling continuous operation of the power generation system.

[0009] FIG. 1 is an exploded perspective view schematically showing a solar cell module according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0010] FIG. 2 is a drawing showing a cross-section of the cell and electrode ribbon of FIG. 1 taken along line II-II'.

[0011] FIGS. 3A and 3B are diagrams illustrating a cell and electrode ribbon according to one embodiment.

[0012] FIGS. 4A to 4C are drawings showing cells and electrode ribbons according to other embodiments.

[0013] Figure 5 is a drawing showing a solar cell array in which a plurality of solar cell modules of Figure 1 are arranged.

[0014] FIG. 6 is a cross-sectional view of a solar cell module according to another embodiment, taken along the line VI-VI' in FIG. 1.

[0015] Fig. 7 is a drawing showing a solar cell array in which a plurality of solar cell modules of Fig. 6 are arranged.

[0016] FIG. 8 is a drawing showing a solar cell power generation system including the solar cell module of FIG. 1.

[0017] One aspect of the present invention provides a solar cell module including a plurality of cells, an electrode ribbon connecting the plurality of cells, a sealing unit sealing the plurality of cells, a frame disposed on one surface of the sealing unit, and a back sheet supporting the other surface of the sealing unit, wherein the electrode ribbon has a first indicator whose color changes according to a temperature change of the plurality of cells.

[0018] Additionally, the first indicator may display a first color in a first temperature range, and a second color different from the first color in a second temperature range different from the first temperature range.

[0019] Additionally, the first indicator may be coated on the surface of the electrode ribbon.

[0020] Additionally, the first indicator may display a first color when the cell is operating normally, a second color when the cell is not operating, and a third color when the cell is operating abnormally.

[0021] Additionally, the first indicator may change from a first color to a second color in one area of ​​the electrode ribbon, and from the first color to a third color in another area of ​​the electrode ribbon.

[0022] Additionally, it may further include an MLPE device connected to the cell.

[0023] Another aspect of the present invention provides a solar cell module comprising a plurality of cells, an electrode ribbon connecting the plurality of cells, a sealing unit encapsulating the plurality of cells, a frame disposed on one surface of the sealing unit, and a back sheet supporting the other surface of the sealing unit, wherein the frame has a second indicator whose color changes according to a temperature change of the plurality of cells.

[0024] Additionally, the second indicator may display a first color in a first temperature range and a second color different from the first color in a second temperature range different from the first temperature range.

[0025] Additionally, the second indicator may be coated on the surface of the frame.

[0026] Additionally, the second indicator may display a first color when the cell is operating normally, a second color when the cell is not operating, and a third color when the cell is operating abnormally.

[0027] Additionally, the second indicator may change from a first color to a second color in one area of ​​the frame, and from a first color to a third color in another area of ​​the frame.

[0028] Additionally, it may further include an MLPE device connected to the cell.

[0029] The present invention is capable of various modifications and embodiments. Specific embodiments are illustrated in the drawings and described in detail in the detailed description. The effects and features of the present invention, as well as the methods for achieving them, will become clearer with reference to the embodiments described in detail below, along with the drawings. However, the present invention is not limited to the embodiments disclosed below and can be implemented in various forms.

[0030] Hereinafter, embodiments of the present invention will be described in detail with reference to the attached drawings. When describing with reference to the drawings, identical or corresponding components are given the same drawing reference numerals, and redundant descriptions thereof will be omitted.

[0031] In the examples below, the terms first, second, etc. are not used in a limiting sense, but are used for the purpose of distinguishing one component from another.

[0032] In the examples below, singular expressions include plural expressions unless the context clearly indicates otherwise.

[0033] In the examples below, terms such as “include” or “have” mean that a feature or component described in the specification is present, and do not preclude the possibility that one or more other features or components may be added.

[0034] In the following examples, when a part such as an area, component, etc. is said to be on or above another part, it includes not only the case where it is directly above the other part, but also the case where another area, component, etc. is interposed in between.

[0035] For convenience of explanation, the sizes of components in the drawings may be exaggerated or reduced. For example, the sizes and thicknesses of each component shown in the drawings are arbitrarily indicated for convenience of explanation, and thus the present invention is not necessarily limited to what is shown.

[0036] In the following examples, when it is said that areas, components, etc. are connected, it includes not only cases where the areas or components are directly connected, but also cases where other areas or components are interposed between the areas or components and are indirectly connected.

[0037] Figure 1 is an exploded perspective view schematically showing a solar cell module (10) according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0038] Referring to FIG. 1, a solar cell module (10) may include a plurality of cells (100), an electrode ribbon (200), a sealing unit (300), a protective member (400), a back sheet (500), a frame (600), and a junction box (700).

[0039] A solar cell module (10) can be manufactured by arranging and aligning a plurality of cells (100) in a preset pattern. The plurality of cells (100) can be electrically connected by an electrode ribbon (200).

[0040] According to one embodiment, the cell (100) may be provided as a silicon-based solar cell. A silicon-based solar cell is the most widely used type of solar cell, refers to a semiconductor device composed of a pn junction, and has a structure in which two types of semiconductors (P type and N type) with different electrical properties are laminated inside. The cell (100) is not limited in type or structure, and other embodiments in which the internal structure or materials are modified may also be applied.

[0041] The electrode ribbon (200) may include a conductive material and may connect a plurality of cells (100) in series. The electrode ribbon (200) may output power generated in the cells (100) to the outside. The electrode ribbon (200) may be bonded to the cells (100) and electrically connected to each other.

[0042] In general, when connecting multiple cells (100) in series, a tabbing operation is performed to connect the front bus electrode of one cell (100) and the rear bus electrode of another adjacent cell (100) with an electrode ribbon (200). In the tabbing operation, the outer skin of the electrode ribbon (200) is melted by applying high temperature heat, and an alloy is formed to be joined with the bus electrode. For example, the electrode ribbon (200) may be provided with a copper wire coated with solder (SnPb) or lead-free solder (SnAgCu). The bus electrode may be mainly provided with a conductive adhesive or a similar conductive material. However, the present invention is not limited thereto, and various known structures may be applied to the connection structure of the cell (100) and the electrode ribbon (200).

[0043] The sealing unit (300) can seal a plurality of cells (100) and electrode ribbons (200). The sealing unit (300) can be provided with a first sealant (310) and a second sealant (320). The sealing unit (300) can be formed by integrating the first sealant (310) and the second sealant (320) by lamination process while arranging them on the upper and lower portions of the cell (100), respectively. The sealing unit (300) can seal the cell (100) and the electrode ribbon (200), thereby preventing corrosion due to moisture penetration. In addition, the sealing unit (300) can be a filler for protecting the cell (100) from external impact. For example, the sealing unit (300) can include a material such as ethylene vinyl acetate (EVA).

[0044] The protective member (400) is arranged on the upper surface of the sealing unit (300) to protect the front surface of the cell (100). The protective member (400) may be formed of a material having a strength capable of protecting the cell (100) against external impact. The protective member (400) may have high light transmittance. For example, the protective member (400) may be formed of glass. The glass may be tempered glass having high transmittance and excellent breakage prevention function.

[0045] The back sheet (500) is arranged on the bottom surface of the sealing unit (300) to protect the back surface of the cell (100). The back sheet (500) can protect the cell (100) from the influence of the external environment. The back sheet (500) can block moisture from penetrating the back surface of the cell (100). In the drawing, an embodiment in which the back sheet (500) is formed as a single layer is illustrated, but the present invention is not limited thereto and may have a multi-layer structure as needed.

[0046] Hereinafter, for convenience of explanation, a sealing unit (300) that seals a plurality of cells (100) and electrode ribbons (200), and a protective member (400) and a back sheet (500) arranged on the front and back sides thereof are collectively referred to as a solar cell panel.

[0047] A frame (600) may be provided to surround the outer periphery of the solar cell panel. The frame (600) may cap the side periphery of the solar cell panel. The frame (600) may be provided in a shape that surrounds the corners of the solar cell panel. Thus, the frame (600) can fix the multilayer structure of the solar cell panel, thereby preventing the solar cell panel from twisting or separating in the vertical or left-right directions.

[0048] The junction box (700) is connected to the cell (100) via wiring and can receive charge from the cell (100). The junction box (700) can be installed by being connected after the cell (100) and the electrode ribbon (200) are sealed with the sealing unit (300). The junction box (700) can include wiring for outputting the generated power to the outside. For example, the junction box (700) can have one end connected to the cell (100) and the other end connected to an inverter or the like.

[0049] FIG. 2 is a drawing showing a cross-section of the cell (100) and electrode ribbon (200) of FIG. 1 taken along line II-II'.

[0050] Referring to FIG. 2, an electrode ribbon (200) is arranged on the surface of a cell (100), and the electrode ribbon (200) may be provided with a first indicator (210) whose color changes according to a change in temperature.

[0051] The first indicator (210) may be placed on the surface of the electrode ribbon (200). For example, the first indicator (210) may be formed by coating the surface of the electrode ribbon (200). As another example, the first indicator (210) may be provided as a thin film and bonded to the surface of the electrode ribbon (200).

[0052] When a plurality of cells (100) generate electricity, current flows through the solar cell module (10), and the cells (100) may generate heat on their own. When heat is generated in the cells (100), the heat may be conducted to the electrode ribbon (200) in contact with the cells (100). When the temperature of the electrode ribbon (200) rises, the first indicator (210) may detect the temperature change and cause the color to change. That is, the first indicator (210) may detect the temperature change of the solar cell module (10) due to the heat generation of the cells (100).

[0053] The first indicator (210) may be manufactured from a material whose color changes depending on temperature. The first indicator (210) may include a material whose color changes at a temperature higher than a preset reference temperature. Specifically, the first indicator (210) may include a cyanobacteria pigment.

[0054] Thermochromic pigments are a general term for pigments that change color depending on heat. They are mainly thermochromic pigments that appear to have their original color below a reference temperature but change to transparent when the temperature rises. Thermochromic pigments are broadly categorized as reversible and irreversible. Reversible thermochromic pigments return to their original color when the temperature drops after discoloration, whereas irreversible thermochromic pigments do not return to their original color once discolored. Another type of thermochromic pigment, reversible thermochromic pigments, are the opposite of regular thermochromic pigments; they are transparent below a reference temperature and display a different color when the temperature rises. In addition, thermochromic pigments can be used together with a general pigment that forms a base color, so that the base color is exposed in the temperature range where the thermochromic pigment becomes transparent, allowing for clear display of thermochromic changes.

[0055] Accordingly, the first indicator (210) may be equipped to detect various temperature change sections by including at least one Zion pigment, or including Zion pigment and general pigment.

[0056] According to one embodiment, the structure of the first indicator (210) may be provided as a single layer. The first indicator (210) may be manufactured by mixing a plurality of materials and randomly dispersing them within the single layer. Specifically, the first indicator (210) may include a first pigment and a second pigment of different types, so that the first pigment and the second pigment may be randomly dispersed within the first indicator (210). At least one of the first pigment and the second pigment may be provided as a Zion pigment, and the other may be provided as a different Zion pigment or a general pigment.

[0057] In another embodiment, the structure of the first indicator (210) may be provided by stacking multiple layers. The first indicator (210) may be manufactured so that multiple materials form each layer. Specifically, the first indicator (210) may be provided with a first layer including the first pigment and a second layer including the second pigment, including first and second pigments of different types. At least one of the first pigment and the second pigment may be provided as a Zion pigment, and the other may be provided as a different Zion pigment or a general pigment.

[0058] However, it is not limited to this, and the structure of the first indicator (210) can be applied to any structure that can embed multiple pigment components inside and display a different color by another pigment component when the Zion pigment among the pigment components is discolored.

[0059] FIGS. 3A and 3B are drawings illustrating the cell (100) and electrode ribbon (200) of FIG. 1. Specifically, FIG. 3A illustrates the cell (100) and electrode ribbon (200) at room temperature, and FIG. 3B illustrates the electrode ribbon (200) whose color changes according to temperature change.

[0060] Referring to FIGS. 2, 3a, and 3b, the cell (100) operates normally, and the temperature changes during the power generation process, and the color of the first indicator (210) positioned on the outside of the electrode ribbon (200) may change. As the color of the first indicator (210) changes, the user can visually confirm the color change of the electrode ribbon (200).

[0061] The first indicator (210) shows color changes according to temperature changes in multiple temperature ranges, and accordingly, the user can check the operating status of the solar cell module (10) using the color changes of the electrode ribbon (200).

[0062] According to one embodiment, the first indicator (210) may display a first color in a first temperature range, and a second color different from the first color in a second temperature range different from the first temperature range.

[0063] For example, the first indicator (210) may include a type of ion pigment. The ion pigment may exhibit a first color at room temperature and change to a second color at a temperature higher than a preset reference temperature. The reference temperature may be set to the temperature at which the cell (100) generates power when operating normally.

[0064] In a first temperature range below the reference temperature at room temperature, the Zion pigment does not change color and thus can display the first color. That is, the first indicator (210) can be displayed in the first color when the cell (100) is not operating and thus not generating power.

[0065] In a second temperature range exceeding the above reference temperature, the Zion pigment can change to a second color. That is, the first indicator (210) can be displayed in the second color when the cell (100) is operating normally.

[0066] In another embodiment, the first indicator (210) may display a first color when the cell (100) is operating normally, a second color when the cell (100) is not operating, and a third color when the cell (100) is operating abnormally.

[0067] For example, the first indicator (210) may include a first ion pigment and a second ion pigment. The first ion pigment may change color at a first reference temperature or higher. The second ion pigment may change color at a second reference temperature or higher. The second reference temperature may be provided to be higher than the first reference temperature. The first reference temperature may be set to a heat generation temperature when the cell (100) operates normally and generates power. The second reference temperature may be set to a hotspot generation temperature when the cell (100) is determined to be overheated due to abnormal operation.

[0068] In a first temperature range below the first reference temperature at room temperature, since the first ion pigment and the second ion pigment do not change color, the first indicator (210) can be displayed in a second color that is a mixture of the unique colors of the first ion pigment and the second ion pigment. That is, the first indicator (210) can be displayed in a second color when the cell (100) is not operating and thus does not generate electricity.

[0069] In a second temperature range that is higher than the first reference temperature and lower than the second reference temperature, the first color pigment changes color, and the second color pigment does not change color, so that the first indicator (210) can be displayed in a first color different from the second color. That is, the first indicator (210) can be displayed in a first color when the cell (100) is operating normally.

[0070] In a third temperature range exceeding the second reference temperature, both the first and second color pigments change color, so that the first indicator (210) can be displayed in a third color different from the first and second colors. That is, the first indicator (210) can be displayed in a third color when the cell (100) operates abnormally and a hot spot phenomenon occurs.

[0071] FIGS. 4A to 4C are drawings showing a cell (100) and an electrode ribbon (200-1) according to another embodiment.

[0072] Referring to FIGS. 4A to 4C, the electrode ribbon (200-1) can be divided into a first region (201) and a second region (202). The first indicator (210-1) can be provided to change to different colors in the first region (201) and the second region (202).

[0073] The first indicator (210-1) can change from a first color to a second color in one area of ​​the electrode ribbon (200-1) and can change from the first color to a third color in another area of ​​the electrode ribbon (200-1).

[0074] For example, the first indicator (210-1) may be divided into a first region (201) and a second region (202). The first region (201) may include a first ion pigment, and the second region (202) may include a second ion pigment.

[0075] The above first Zion pigment exhibits a first color at room temperature and can change to a second color at a temperature higher than the first reference temperature. The above second Zion pigment exhibits a first color at room temperature and can change to a third color at a temperature higher than the second reference temperature.

[0076] At this time, the second reference temperature may be set higher than the first reference temperature. The first reference temperature may be set to a temperature at which the cell (100) generates heat when operating normally. The second reference temperature may be set to a temperature at which a hotspot occurs when the cell (100) is determined to be overheated due to abnormal operation.

[0077] In a first temperature range below the first reference temperature at room temperature, since the first and second color pigments do not change color, the first indicator (210-1) can be displayed in the first color in both the first region (201) and the second region (202), as shown in FIG. 4A. That is, the first indicator (210-1) can be displayed in the first color over the entire area when the cell (100) is not operating and thus not generating electricity.

[0078] In a second temperature range from the first reference temperature to the second reference temperature, the first color pigment changes to a second color, and the second color pigment does not change, so the first indicator (210-1) can display the second color in the first region (201) and the first color in the second region (202), as shown in FIG. 4B. That is, the color of the first indicator (210-1) can partially change when the cell (100) is operating normally.

[0079] In a third temperature range exceeding the second reference temperature, both the first and second ion pigments change color, so that the first indicator (210-1) may display a second color in the first region (201) and a third color in the second region (202), as shown in FIG. 4C. That is, the first indicator (210-1) may change color over the entire area when the cell (100) operates abnormally and a hot spot phenomenon occurs.

[0080] Figure 5 is a drawing showing a solar cell array in which a plurality of solar cell modules (10) of Figure 1 are arranged.

[0081] Referring to FIGS. 2 and 5, a plurality of solar cell modules (10) are connected in the longitudinal and transverse directions to form a solar cell array, thereby constructing a single solar power generation facility.

[0082] Each solar cell module (10) can be connected to an MLPE (Module Level Power Electronics) device. For example, the solar cell module (10) can be connected to a microinverter, a DC optimizer, or other power conversion device. Since the solar cell module (10) and the MLPE device are connected one-to-one, the power produced by one solar cell module (10) can be individually controlled by the MLPE device connected to the module. FIG. 5 illustrates an embodiment in which the solar cell module (10) is connected to an inverter (INV).

[0083] In one embodiment, the solar cell module (10) may include an electrode ribbon (200) having a first indicator (210) that changes color depending on temperature.

[0084] Part A of FIG. 5 illustrates a cell (100A) and an electrode ribbon (200A) of a normally operating module, and part B illustrates a cell (100B) and an electrode ribbon (200B) of an abnormally operating module.

[0085] When a solar cell module (10) generates electricity normally, the cells (100A) may generate heat of their own while generating electricity. Accordingly, the temperature of the solar cell module (10) may change not only due to the influence of sunlight or temperature, but also due to the heat generation temperature of the cells (100A) and other components during power generation.

[0086] On the other hand, as shown in part B of Fig. 5, if the solar cell module (10) does not generate power normally, the cell (100B) and other components may not generate heat due to power generation. As a result, the temperature of the solar cell module (10) may only change due to the influence of sunlight or air temperature.

[0087] Accordingly, when a failure occurs in one of the multiple solar cell modules (10) included in the solar cell array, a temperature difference may be formed between the normally operating module and the faulty module. The first indicator (210A, not shown) of the normally operating module and the first indicator (210B, not shown) of the non-operating module may be displayed in different colors. The user can easily visually determine the faulty module in the solar cell array.

[0088] FIG. 6 is a drawing showing a cross-section of a solar cell module (10-1) according to another embodiment, taken along the line VI-VI' in FIG. 1.

[0089] Referring to FIG. 6, a solar cell module (10-1) may include a plurality of cells (100), an electrode ribbon (200), a sealing unit (300), a protective member (400), a back sheet (500), and a frame (600). The frame (600) may include a second indicator (610) whose color changes according to temperature changes. Since other components of the solar cell module (10-1) are the same as those described above in FIG. 1, the following description will focus on the frame (600) and the second indicator (610).

[0090] The frame (600) may be provided to facilitate the installation of the solar cell module (10) or to protect it. In general, the solar cell module (10) is exposed to an outdoor environment where sunlight is directly incident for a long period of time, and in particular, since the frame (600) is located at the outermost part of the module structure, it may be exposed to high temperatures or moisture due to weather phenomena, or other external forces may be transmitted. Accordingly, the frame (600) may be formed of a material having excellent durability, and may commonly be provided with a metal material. For example, the frame (600) may include an aluminum alloy. When the frame (600) is provided with a metal material, it has excellent heat resistance, so that it is not damaged by heat even when exposed to high temperatures, and has excellent thermal conductivity, so that heat can be easily transferred from other adjacent components.

[0091] As illustrated in FIG. 6, the frame (600) is in contact with the outer edge of the sealing unit (300) encapsulating the cell (100) and the electrode ribbon (200), and may be provided with a second indicator (610) on one side that changes color according to temperature change.

[0092] The second indicator (610) may be placed on the surface of the frame (600). For example, the second indicator (610) may be formed by coating the surface of the frame (600). As another example, the second indicator (610) may be provided as a thin film and bonded to the surface of the frame (600).

[0093] When a plurality of cells (100) generate electricity, current flows through the solar cell module (10), and the cells (100) may generate heat on their own. When heat is generated in the cells (100), the heat may be conducted to the sealing unit (300) filling the periphery of the cells (100). When the temperature of the sealing unit (300) rises, the second indicator (610) may detect the temperature change and cause a color change. That is, the second indicator (610) may detect a temperature change in the solar cell module (10) due to the heat generation of the cells (100).

[0094] The second indicator (610) may be manufactured from a material whose color changes depending on temperature. The second indicator (610) may include a material whose color changes at a temperature higher than a preset reference temperature. Specifically, the second indicator (610) may include a temperature pigment. The second indicator (610) may include at least one temperature pigment, or may include a temperature pigment and a general pigment, and may be configured to detect various temperature change ranges.

[0095] According to one embodiment, the structure of the second indicator (610) may be provided as a single layer. The second indicator (610) may be manufactured by mixing a plurality of materials and randomly dispersing them within the single layer. Specifically, the second indicator (610) may include a first pigment and a second pigment of different types, so that the first pigment and the second pigment may be randomly dispersed within the second indicator (610). At least one of the first pigment and the second pigment may be provided as a Zion pigment, and the other may be provided as a different Zion pigment or a general pigment.

[0096] In another embodiment, the structure of the second indicator (610) may be provided by stacking multiple layers. The second indicator (610) may be manufactured so that multiple materials form each layer. Specifically, the second indicator (610) may be provided with a first layer including the first pigment and a second layer including the second pigment, including first and second pigments of different types. At least one of the first pigment and the second pigment may be provided as a Zion pigment, and the other may be provided as a different Zion pigment or a general pigment.

[0097] However, it is not limited thereto, and the structure of the second indicator (610) can be applied to any structure that can embed multiple pigment components inside and display a different color by another pigment component when the Zion pigment among the pigment components is discolored.

[0098] Referring again to FIGS. 1 and 6, the cell (100) operates normally, and the temperature changes during the power generation process, and the color of the second indicator (610) positioned on the outside of the frame (600) may change. As the color of the second indicator (610) changes, the user can visually confirm the color change of the frame (600).

[0099] The second indicator (610) indicates color changes according to temperature changes in multiple temperature ranges, and accordingly, the user can check the operating status of the solar cell module (10-1) using the color changes of the frame (600).

[0100] According to one embodiment, the second indicator (610) may display a first color in a first temperature range and a second color different from the first color in a second temperature range different from the first temperature range.

[0101] For example, the second indicator (610) may include a type of ion pigment. The ion pigment may exhibit a first color at room temperature and change to a second color at a temperature higher than a preset reference temperature. The reference temperature may be set to the temperature at which the cell (100) generates power when operating normally.

[0102] In a first temperature range below the reference temperature at room temperature, the Zion pigment does not change color, and thus can display the first color. That is, the second indicator (610) can be displayed in the first color when the cell (100) is not operating and thus not generating power.

[0103] In a second temperature range exceeding the above reference temperature, the Zion pigment can change to a second color. That is, the second indicator (610) can be displayed in a second color when the cell (100) is operating normally.

[0104] In another embodiment, the second indicator (610) may display a first color when the cell (100) is operating normally, a second color when the cell (100) is not operating, and a third color when the cell (100) is operating abnormally.

[0105] For example, the second indicator (610) may include a first ion pigment and a second ion pigment. The first ion pigment may change color at a first reference temperature or higher. The second ion pigment may change color at a second reference temperature or higher. The second reference temperature may be provided to be higher than the first reference temperature. The first reference temperature may be set to a heat generation temperature when the cell (100) operates normally and generates power. The second reference temperature may be set to a hotspot generation temperature when the cell (100) is determined to be overheated due to abnormal operation.

[0106] In a first temperature range below the first reference temperature at room temperature, since the first ion pigment and the second ion pigment do not change color, the second indicator (610) can be displayed in a second color that is a mixture of the unique colors of the first ion pigment and the second ion pigment. That is, the second indicator (610) can be displayed in a second color when the cell (100) is not operating and thus not generating electricity.

[0107] In a second temperature range from the first reference temperature to the second reference temperature, the first ion pigment changes color, and the second ion pigment does not change color, so that the second indicator (610) can be displayed in a first color different from the second color. That is, the second indicator (610) can be displayed in the first color when the cell (100) is operating normally.

[0108] In a third temperature range exceeding the second reference temperature, both the first and second color pigments change color, so the second indicator (610) can be displayed in a third color different from the first and second colors. That is, the second indicator (610) can be displayed in a third color when the cell (100) operates abnormally and a hot spot phenomenon occurs.

[0109] In another embodiment, the second indicator (610) may change from a first color to a second color in one area of ​​the frame (600) and from the first color to a third color in another area of ​​the frame (600).

[0110] For example, the second indicator (610) may be divided into a first region and a second region. The first region may include a first ion pigment, and the second region may include a second ion pigment.

[0111] The above first Zion pigment exhibits a first color at room temperature and can change to a second color at a temperature higher than the first reference temperature. The above second Zion pigment exhibits a first color at room temperature and can change to a third color at a temperature higher than the second reference temperature.

[0112] At this time, the second reference temperature may be set higher than the first reference temperature. The first reference temperature may be set to a temperature at which the cell (100) generates heat when operating normally. The second reference temperature may be set to a temperature at which a hotspot occurs when the cell (100) is determined to be overheated due to abnormal operation.

[0113] In a first temperature range below the first reference temperature at room temperature, since the first and second color pigments do not change color, the second indicator (610) can be displayed in the first color in both the first region and the second region. That is, the second indicator (610) can be displayed in the first color over the entire area when the cell (100) is not operating and thus not generating electricity.

[0114] In a second temperature range from the first reference temperature to below the second reference temperature, the first ion pigment changes color to a second color, and the second ion pigment does not change color, so that the second indicator (610) can display the second color in the first region and the first color in the second region. That is, the second indicator (610) can partially change color when the cell (100) is operating normally.

[0115] In a third temperature range exceeding the second reference temperature, both the first and second color pigments change color, so that the second indicator (610) may display a second color in the first region and a third color in the second region. That is, the second indicator (610) may change color over the entire area when the cell (100) operates abnormally and a hot spot phenomenon occurs.

[0116] FIG. 7 is a drawing showing a solar cell array in which a plurality of solar cell modules (10-1) of FIG. 6 are arranged.

[0117] Referring to FIGS. 6 and 7, a plurality of solar cell modules (10-1) are connected and arranged in the longitudinal and transverse directions to form a solar cell array, thereby constructing a single solar power generation facility.

[0118] Each solar cell module (10-1) may be connected to an MLPE device. For example, the solar cell module (10-1) may be connected to a microinverter, DC optimizer, or other power conversion device.

[0119] Since the solar cell module (10-1) and the MLPE device are connected one-to-one, the power produced by one solar cell module (10-1) can be individually controlled by the MLPE device connected to the module. Fig. 7 illustrates an embodiment in which the solar cell module (10-1) is connected to an inverter (INV).

[0120] According to one embodiment, the solar cell module (10-1) may include a frame (600) having a second indicator (610) that changes color depending on temperature.

[0121] Part C of Figure 7 represents a module that is operating abnormally, and the rest represent modules that are operating normally.

[0122] When a solar cell module (10-1) generates electricity normally, the cell (100) may generate its own heat while producing electricity. Accordingly, the temperature of the solar cell module (10-1) may change not only due to the influence of sunlight or temperature, but also due to the heat generation temperature of the cell (100) and other components during power generation.

[0123] On the other hand, as in part C of Fig. 7, when the solar cell module (10-1) does not generate power normally, no heat is generated, and the temperature of the solar cell module (10-1) can only change due to the influence of sunlight or air temperature.

[0124] Accordingly, if a failure occurs in one of the multiple solar cell modules (10-1) included in the solar cell array, a temperature difference may be formed between the normally operating module and the faulty module. The second indicator (610) of the normally operating module and the second indicator (610C, not shown) of the non-operating module may be displayed in different colors. The user can easily visually determine the faulty module in the solar cell array.

[0125] Fig. 8 is a drawing showing a solar cell power generation system (1) including the solar cell module (10) of Fig. 1.

[0126] Referring to FIGS. 1, 5, 7 and 8, a solar cell power generation system (1) may include a plurality of solar cell modules (10), an imaging device (20), a controller (30) and an input display device (40).

[0127] In a solar cell power generation system (1), a plurality of solar cell modules (10) are provided as a solar cell array arranged at regular intervals, and solar power generation can be performed in the solar cell array.

[0128] When a faulty or defective module occurs in the above solar cell array, as in the embodiments disclosed in FIG. 5 or FIG. 7, the color of the first indicator (210) or the color of the second indicator (610) of the faulty module may appear different from that of the surrounding normally operating modules.

[0129] The imaging device (20) can capture images of the solar cell array to generate images. The imaging device (20) can capture images of the entire area or a portion of the solar cell array to generate images. The images generated by the imaging device (20) can be transmitted to the controller (30).

[0130] The controller (30) analyzes the image received from the imaging device (20), and when the color value of a portion corresponding to the first indicator (210) or the second indicator (610) in the image is outside a pre-input suitable reference range, it can generate a notification signal for an abnormal module.

[0131] The controller (60) may include a data storage unit (31), a calculation unit (32), and a notification signal generation unit (33).

[0132] The data storage unit (31) can store the color value range of the suitable criteria input from the input display device (40) and information about the analysis target range in the image. In addition, the data storage unit (31) can store the image received from the imaging device (20).

[0133] The calculation unit (32) can calculate the color value for each pixel from the image. The calculation unit (32) can separately extract only the color value in the analysis target range from the image. The calculation unit (32) can compare the extracted color value with a preset suitable reference range. Accordingly, the calculation unit (32) can calculate the location information in the image for pixels having unsuitable color values.

[0134] The notification signal generation unit (33) can indicate an abnormal range in the image based on the location information produced by the calculation unit (32), and can generate a notification signal for the occurrence of an abnormal module accordingly. The notification signal generation unit (33) can transmit the generated notification signal to the input display device (40).

[0135] The input display device (40) can display a notification signal transmitted from the notification signal generation unit (33) on the screen. Using the notification signal, the user can identify the location of a module (10) in the solar cell array where a failure or defect has occurred and quickly replace or repair it.

[0136] While the present invention has been described with reference to one embodiment illustrated in the accompanying drawings, this is merely exemplary, and those skilled in the art will appreciate that various modifications and equivalent embodiments are possible. Therefore, the true scope of protection of the present invention should be determined solely by the appended claims.

Claims

1. Multiple cells; An electrode ribbon connecting the plurality of cells; A sealing unit for encapsulating the above plurality of cells; A frame arranged on one side of the above sealing unit; and including a back sheet supporting the other side of the sealing unit; The above electrode ribbon A solar cell module having a first indicator whose color changes according to a temperature change of the plurality of cells.

2. In paragraph 1, The above first indicator A solar cell module that displays a first color in a first temperature range and a second color different from the first color in a second temperature range different from the first temperature range.

3. In paragraph 1, The above first indicator A solar cell module coated on the surface of the above electrode ribbon.

4. In paragraph 1, The above first indicator A solar cell module, wherein the cell displays a first color when the cell is operating normally, a second color when the cell is not operating, and a third color when the cell is operating abnormally.

5. In paragraph 1, The above first indicator A solar cell module, wherein one region of the electrode ribbon changes from a first color to a second color, and another region of the electrode ribbon changes from a first color to a third color.

6. In paragraph 1, A solar cell module further comprising an MLPE device connected to the above cell.

7. Multiple cells; An electrode ribbon connecting the plurality of cells; A sealing unit for encapsulating the above plurality of cells; A frame arranged on one side of the above sealing unit; and including a back sheet supporting the other side of the sealing unit; The above frame is A solar cell module having a second indicator whose color changes according to a temperature change of the plurality of cells.

8. In paragraph 7, The above second indicator A solar cell module that displays a first color in a first temperature range and a second color different from the first color in a second temperature range different from the first temperature range.

9. In paragraph 7, The above second indicator A solar cell module coated on the surface of the above frame.

10. In paragraph 7, The above second indicator A solar cell module, wherein the cell displays a first color when the cell is operating normally, a second color when the cell is not operating, and a third color when the cell is operating abnormally.

11. In paragraph 7, The above second indicator A solar cell module that changes from a first color to a second color in one area of ​​the frame and from a first color to a third color in another area of ​​the frame.

12. In paragraph 7, A solar cell module further comprising an MLPE device connected to the above cell.

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