Device for generating electricity

Abstract

An embodiment provides a panel (10) for generating electricity from electromagnetic radiation. In one arrangement, the panel (10) comprises a panel (12) that is at least partially transmissive for light. The panel (10) has at least two solar cell arrangements (14, 16) provided on or associated with the panel in such a manner to form a solar cell region where light can be absorbed by the at least two solar cell arrangements and a transmissive region adjacent the solar cell region where light can pass through and exit the panel. Each solar cell arrangement has a series-connected solar cell module (22) with a same number of solar cells thereby determining an operating voltage of the panel. The solar cell modules of each solar cell arrangement may be connected in parallel such that the panel has a single positive terminal and at least one negative terminal.

Description

[0001] Device for generating electricity

[0002] Technical Field

[0003] The present disclosure relates to a panel, such as a laminate panel, used in for example an outdoor advertising board, a window in a building (including as part of a double or multi glazed insulated glazing unit or IGU) or a greenhouse panel, for generating electricity from electromagnetic radiation.

[0004] Related application

[0005] The present application claims priority to United States provisional patent application No. 63 / 664,316 filed on 26 June 2024, the content of which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety.

[0006] Background

[0007] Windows are used in many settings to protect an inside environment whilst allowing light to pass through it. As windows are used in more settings, they are now often used in conjunction with electrical systems either directly, such as through lighting systems associated with the window, or indirectly, such as through electrical components weather-protected by the window. However, these electrical systems require power which has typically been provided by non-renewable power sources.

[0008] Summary

[0009] An embodiment provides a panel for generating electricity from electromagnetic radiation, the panel comprising: a panel that is at least partially transmissive for light; and at least two solar cell arrangements provided on or associated with the panel in such a manner to form a solar cell region where light can be absorbed by the at least two solar cell arrangements and a transmissive region adjacent the solar cell region where light can pass through and exit the panel, each solar cell arrangement having a series-connected solar cell module with a same number of solar cells thereby determining an operating voltage of the panel, wherein the solar cell modules of each solar cell arrangement are connected in parallel such that the panel has a single positive terminal and at least one negative terminal.

[0010] Each solar cell arrangement may comprise at least two series-connected solar cell modules connected in series. A first set of solar cell modules formed from a first solar cell module of each of the at least two solar cell arrangements may be connected in parallel to define a first negative terminal and a second set of solar cell modules formed from a second solar cell module of each of the at least two solar cell arrangements may be connected in parallel to define a second negative terminal. Each solar cell arrangement may comprise three series-connected solar cell modules connected in series. A third set of solar cell modules formed from a third solar cell module of each from each of the at least two solar cell arrangements may be connected in parallel to define a third negative terminal.

[0011] The panel may further comprise a diode between the positive terminal and the negative terminal, and between each terminal of the at least one negative terminal. The diodes may be positioned in a junction box that the positive terminal and the at least one negative terminal is connected to. Each series-connected solar cell module may be formed from shingled solar cells. Each series-connected solar cell module may include 15 to 20 solar cells. An operating voltage of the panel may be up to 105V, up to 70V or up to 45V. The operating voltage of the panel may range from 26V to 32V.

[0012] Each of the at least two solar cell arrangements may have a plurality of solar cell modules such that each of the at least two solar cell arrangements may comprise 54, 60 or 72 solar cells.

[0013] Each of the at least two solar cell arrangements may have a plurality of solar cell modules such that each of the at least two solar cell arrangements may comprise more than 72 solar cells.

[0014] The panel may further comprise a frit extending past relative a surface normal of an edge of each of the at least two solar cell arrangements. The panel may comprise a first sub-panel and a second sub-panel laminated together. At least two solar cell arrangements may be laminated between the first sub-panel and the second sub-panel. The first sub-panel may be larger than the second sub-panel such that the first sub-panel overhangs the second sub-panel. The solar cell modules of each solar cell arrangement may be connected in parallel using a flexible circuit positioned either at a side or on a back of each of the at least two solar cell arrangements.

[0015] The solar cell region may be positioned towards or at an edge of the panel. The transmissive region may occupy a central portion of the panel. The at least two solar cell arrangements may be positioned towards or at an edge of the panel. The panel may comprise four solar cell arrangements. Each of the four solar cell arrangements may be positioned along different edges of the panel. The at least two solar cell arrangements may be positioned parallel to one another. The panel may form part of an outdoor advertising board, a window in a building (including as part of a double or multi glazed insulated glazing unit or IGU), or a greenhouse panel. An embodiment provides an outdoor advertisement board comprising the panel as set forth above. An embodiment may further comprise a heat sink in thermal communication with the solar cell region configured to remove heat from the solar cell region.

[0016] An embodiment provides a panel for generating electricity from electromagnetic radiation, the panel comprising: a panel that is at least partially transmissive for light; a solar cell arrangement provided on or associated with the panel, the solar cell arrangement comprising: a first set of series-connected solar cells that includes a first module and a second module, the solar cells that form each of the first module and the second module are connected in series; a second set of series-connected solar cells that includes a first module and a second module, the solar cells that form each of the first module and the second module are connected in series; wherein the solar cell arrangement has a single positive terminal, the first module of the first set of solar cells and the first module of the second set of solar cells are connected in parallel to define a first negative terminal, and the second module of the first set of solar cells and the second module of the second set of solar cells are connected in parallel to define a second negative terminal.

[0017] An embodiment provides a panel system comprising: the panel as set forth above or as otherwise described herein; a junction box electrically connected to the at least two solar cell arrangements associated with the panel; and an inverter electrically connected to the junction box.

[0018] The panel system may further comprise an electrical system connected to the junction box and / or the inverter. The electrical system may include a battery connected to the inverter and configured to be recharged by power generated by the at least two solar cell arrangements. The operating voltage of the electrical system may be equal to or larger than a voltage of the battery. The operating voltage of the electrical system may be 24V. The battery may be a 24V battery. The inverter may be a microinverter. The panel system may be an outdoor advertising board system. It will be understood that various examples or embodiments described herein can be practiced alone or in combination with any one or more of the other described examples or embodiments, as will be readily appreciated by those skilled in the relevant art. The various described examples or embodiments can optionally be provided in combination with one or more of the optional features described in relation to the other aspects, examples or embodiments. Furthermore, optional features described in relation to one example or embodiment can optionally be combined alone or together with other features described in relation to different examples or embodiments.

[0019] For the purposes of summarising the various examples or embodiments exemplifying the present disclosure, certain aspects, advantages and novel features may be described. It is to be understood, however, that not necessarily all such advantage(s) may be achieved in accordance with any particular example or embodiment or carried out in a manner that achieves or optimises one advantage or group of advantages as taught herein without necessarily achieving other advantage(s) as may be taught or suggested herein.

[0020] Brief Description of the Drawings

[0021] Embodiments will now be described, by way of example only, with reference to the accompanying non-limiting drawings, in which:

[0022] Figure 1 is a schematic plan view of an embodiment of a panel.

[0023] Figure 2 is a schematic representation of a solar cell module.

[0024] Figure 3 is an embodiment of a wiring diagram for the panel of Figure 1 .

[0025] Figure 4 is a schematic plan view of another embodiment of a panel.

[0026] Figure 5 is an embodiment of a wiring diagram for the panel of Figure 3.

[0027] Figure 6 is an embodiment of a wiring diagram for the panel of Figure 3.

[0028] Figure 7 is an embodiment of a panel.

[0029] Figure 8 is another embodiment of a panel.

[0030] Figure 9 is an embodiment of a panel.

[0031] Figure 10 is an embodiment of an electrical system.

[0032] In the figures, the skilled reader will appreciate that elements in the figures are illustrated for simplicity and clarity and have not necessarily been drawn to scale. For example, the dimensions and / or relative positioning of some of the elements in the figures may be exaggerated relative to other elements to facilitate an understanding of the various embodiments exemplifying the principles described herein. Also, common but well understood elements that are useful or necessary in a commercially feasible embodiment are often not depicted in order to provide a less obstructed view of these various embodiments. It will also be understood that the terms and expressions used herein adopt the ordinary meaning as is accorded to such terms and expressions with respect to their corresponding respective areas of inquiry and study except where specific meanings have otherwise been set forth herein.

[0033] It should be noted that the figures are schematic only and the location and disposition of the components can vary according to the particular arrangements of the embodiment(s) as well as of the particular applications of such embodiment(s).

[0034] Detailed Description

[0035] It will be understood by the skilled reader that the present disclosure is not to be limited in scope by any of the specific examples or embodiments described herein. These examples or embodiments are intended for the purpose of exemplification only. Functionally equivalent products and methods are clearly within the scope of the present disclosure as described herein.

[0036] The skilled reader will also understand that that references to positional descriptions in the present disclosure (e.g., inner, outer, inboard etc), are to be taken in context of the examples or embodiments shown in the figures, and are not to be taken as limiting the scope of the principles described herein to the literal interpretation of the term, but rather as would be understood by the skilled reader.

[0037] Examples or embodiments described herein may include one or more range of values (relating to, for example, geometry, length(s), dimension(s), voltage(s) etc). A range of values will be understood to include all values within the range, including the values defining the range, and values adjacent to the range which lead to the same or substantially the same outcome as the values immediately adjacent to that value which defines the boundary to the range.

[0038] Other definitions for selected terms used herein may be found outlined above or within the detailed description below and apply throughout. Unless otherwise defined, all other scientific and technical terms used herein have the same meaning as commonly understood to one of ordinary skill in the art to which the example(s) or embodiment(s) relate.

[0039] Referring to Figure 1 , an embodiment provides a panel 10 for generating electricity from electromagnetic radiation. The panel 10 has a panel 12 that is at least partially transmissive for light. The panel 10 has at least two solar cell arrangements provided on or associated with the panel. As shown in Figure 1 , the panel 10 has a first solar cell arrangement 14, a second solar cell arrangement 16, a third solar cell arrangement 18 and a fourth solar cell arrangement 20 (collectively termed “the solar cell arrangements”). The solar cell arrangements (e.g. 14, 16, 18 and 20) are provided on or associated with the panel 12 and define a solar cell region 15 where light can be absorbed by the at least two solar cell arrangements. For example, the solar cell arrangements 14, 16, 18, 20 may be positioned or fixed to a frame component fixed to the panel 12 or may be indirectly or directly bonded to panel 12. As shown in Figure 1 , the four solar cell arrangements (e.g. 14, 16, 18 and 20) are each positioned near or at different edges of the panel 12.

[0040] A transmissive region 17 is adjacent the solar cell region 15. Put another way, the transmissive region 17 is anything other the solar cell region 15. The transmissive region 17 is configured so that light can pass through and exit the panel such that a user can see through the panel. For example, when the panel forms part of an outdoor advertisement board, an advertisement for viewing by a user is positioned behind the transmissive region 17. As shown in Figure 1 , the transmissive region 17 occupies a central portion 13 of the panel 12 where the solar cell region 15 extends around a perimeter of the panel 12. In an embodiment, the transmissive region 17 occupies at least 40%, 50%, 60%, 70%, 80%, 90% or >95% of a surface area of the panel 12.

[0041] In another embodiment, a panel 10a has the solar cell arrangements positioned parallel to one another, as shown in Figure 9. In such an embodiment, the solar cell regions are strips arranged parallel to one another and transmissive regions are positioned between adjacent solar cell regions. The panel 10a may be used for applications such as a greenhouse window where aesthetics are not as important as a vision glass window but where light still needs to pass through the window.

[0042] Each of the first solar cell arrangement 14, second solar cell arrangement 16, third solar cell arrangement 18 and fourth solar cell arrangement 20 has a series-connected solar cell module in the form of solar cell module 22 as shown in Figure 2. The solar cell module 22 has a plurality of solar cells, which in the embodiment shown in Figure 2 is seven 22a-22g. In an embodiment, the solar cell module 22 includes 15 to 25 solar cells such as 18 to 24 or 15 to 20. So, for example, if each solar cell module 22 in first solar cell arrangement 14 has 24 cells, and three modules are utilised in first solar cell arrangement 14, the total number of cells is 72. The solar cells of the solar cell module 22 may be shingled solar cells. The solar cells 22a-22g may be bifacial solar cells. The number of solar cells in the solar cell module 22 is selected to achieve a desired output voltage of the panel 10. Typically, increasing the number of solar cells in a solar cell module increases a voltage output of the module. Each of the first solar cell arrangement 14, second solar cell arrangement 16, third solar cell arrangement 18 and fourth solar cell arrangement 20 has the same number of solar cells. Therefore, an output voltage of each of the first solar cell arrangement 14, second solar cell arrangement 16, third solar cell arrangement 18 and fourth solar cell arrangement 20 should be the same or similar. It should be appreciated that the actual voltage output of each solar cell arrangement may change depending on localised light conditions, such as a degree of shading.

[0043] In the panel 10, each module of the first solar cell arrangement 14, second solar cell arrangement 16, third solar cell arrangement 18 and fourth solar cell arrangement 20 are connected in parallel such that the panel 10 has a single positive terminal 30 and at least one negative terminal 32, as shown in Figure 3. An advantage of this arrangement is that the panel 10 is more tolerant to shading since the parallel connection of the different modules helps to stabilise a voltage output. In an embodiment, an operating voltage of the panel 10 is up to 105V. In an embodiment, an operating voltage of the panel 10 is up to 45V. In an embodiment, the operating voltage of the panel 10 ranges from 26V to 32V. In this way, due to the parallel connection of the modules of the solar cell arrangements, the voltage generated by each solar cell module 22 is up to 45V, such as 5V to 45V, up to 32V, from 5V up to 32V for example about 26V to 32V. A diode may be positioned between the single positive terminal 30 and at least one negative terminal 32, such as that provided in a junction box (not shown). An operating voltage of the panel 10 may be determined by requirements of an external electrical system that is electrically connected to the panel 10. For example, if the external electrical system requires microinverters for battery charging, an operating voltage of the panel 10 may range from about 5V to about 60V.

[0044] Another embodiment of a panel 100 is shown in Figure 4. Panel 100 is similar to panel 10 but has a plurality of solar cell modules for each solar cell arrangement. The panel 100 has first solar cell arrangement 114, second solar cell arrangement 116, third solar cell arrangement 118 and fourth solar cell arrangement 120. Each of the solar cell arrangements has three series- connected solar cell modules, where the solar cells (e.g. 22a-22h) are connected in series for each solar cell module. It should be appreciated that each solar cell arrangement could have at least two series-connected solar cell modules connected in series.

[0045] In panel 100, the first solar cell arrangement 114 has first solar cell module 114a, second solar cell module 114b and third solar cell module 114c. The second solar cell arrangement 116 has first solar cell module 116a, second solar cell module 116b and third solar cell module 116c. The third solar cell arrangement 118 has first solar cell module 118a, second solar cell module 118b and third solar cell module 118c. The fourth solar cell arrangement 120 has first solar cell module 120a, second solar cell module 120b and third solar cell module 120c.

[0046] With reference to Figure 5, each of the respective first solar cell modules (e.g. 114a, 116a, 118a and 120a) form a first set of solar cell modules 113a that are connected in parallel. Similarly, each of the respective second and third solar cell modules (e.g. second set that includes 114b, 116b, 118b and 120b and third set that includes 114c, 116c, 118c and 120c) form a second set of solar cell modules 113b and third set of solar cell modules 113c that are connected in parallel. The first set of solar cell modules 113a, the second set of solar cell modules 113b and the third set of solar cell modules 113c share a common positive terminal 130 but each of the sets of solar cell modules has a respective negative terminal. For example, the first set of solar cell modules 113a has a first negative terminal 132a, the second set of solar cell modules 113b has a second negative terminal 132b, and the third set of solar cell modules 113c has a third negative terminal 132c. However, in another example, the first set of solar cell modules 113a, second set of solar cell modules 113b and third set of solar cell modules 113c share two positive terminals and two negative terminals. These arrangements of parallel and series connections means that if any one of the solar cell modules and / or sets of solar cell modules is shaded, the output voltage of the panel 100 remains largely unchanged.

[0047] The solar cell modules within each set of solar cell modules (113a-113c) can be electrically connected in various ways. In an embodiment, and as shown with reference to Figure 6, the panel 100 is provided with a flexible circuit shown in the form of connection circuit 121 that extends around a perimeter of the panel 12. The connection circuit 121 is shown collectively as the dashed lines that includes a positive circuit 122, a first negative circuit 124, a second negative circuit 126 and a third negative circuit 128. Each circuit 122, 124, 126 and 128 may include bus bars or similar. In an embodiment, each of the positive circuit 122, first negative circuit 124, second negative circuit 126 and third negative circuit 128 define an open circuit. The common positive terminal 130 is connected to positive circuit 122, first the negative terminal 132a is connected to the first negative circuit 124, the second negative terminal 132b is connected to the second negative circuit 126, and the third negative terminal 132c is connected to the third negative circuit 128. The solar cells of the first set of solar cell modules 113a (e.g. 114a, 116a, 118a and 120a) are electrically connected to the positive circuit 122 by respective connection points 134a, 134b, 134c and 134d. The solar cells of the first set of solar cell modules 113a (e.g. 114a, 116a, 118a and 120a) are electrically connected to the first negative circuit 124 by respective connection points 136a, 136b, 136c and 136d. The solar cells of the second set of solar cell modules 113b (e.g. 114b, 116b, 118b and 120b) are electrically connected to the second negative circuit 126 by respective connection points 138a, 138b, 138c and 138d. The solar cells of the third set of solar cell modules 113c (e.g. 114c, 116c, 118c and 120c) are electrically connected to the third negative circuit 128 by respective connection points

[0048] 140a, 140b, 140c and 140d.

[0049] The connection points 134a-d, 136a-d, 138a-d and 140a-d are shown by example only to assist with understanding the disclosure and may vary from that shown in Figure 6. Similarly, the specification locations of the common positive terminal 130, first negative terminal 132a, second negative terminal 132b, third negative terminal 132c and positive circuit 122, first negative circuit 124, second negative circuit 126 and third negative circuit 128 are exemplary and may vary depending on the form and application of the panel 100.

[0050] An advantage of the connection circuit 121 is that it may include a total cross tie connection (TCT), which is sometimes referred to as a fully interconnected grid, which may help to reduce the number of diodes required per solar cell arrangement 114, 116, 118 and 120 due to the better power dissipation in case of shading caused by the numerous other exits of energy. The solar cells may also include matrix shingled or brick shingled cells which increase a width of a cell.

[0051] The connection circuit 121 may also include additional layers or connections to allow for connection to an external electrical system such as LED, automation system, heating or cooling systems, data connection, and so on.

[0052] The connection circuit 121 is shown in Figure 6 as being positioned on a rear face of the various solar cells where each of the positive circuit 122, first negative circuit 124, second negative circuit 126 and third negative circuit 128 are spaced laterally from one another. In another embodiment, the connection circuit 121 is provided at or near an edge of the solar cells and / or the panel 12 where each of the positive circuit 122, first negative circuit 124, second negative circuit 126 and third negative circuit 128 are stacked and spaced vertically from one another. In such an embodiment, an insulation means (e.g., an insulation, an insulation substrate or layer, an insulation material) is provided between each of the positive circuit 122, first negative circuit 124, second negative circuit 126 and third negative circuit 128 to prevent short circuiting.

[0053] In each of first solar cell arrangement 114, second solar cell arrangement 116, third solar cell arrangement 118 and fourth solar cell arrangement 120, the total number of solar cells may comprise 54, 60 or 72 solar cells. For example, in panel 100 where the first solar cell arrangement 114 has three solar cell modules (114a, 114b, 114c), each module may have 18, 20 or 24 solar cells to give a total number of solar cells to be 54, 60 or 72. However, it should be appreciated that the number of solar cells within each module may vary depending on required applications of the panel 100. For example, the total number of solar cells in each solar cell arrangement may be greater than 72 cells, with each solar cell module having an equal number of solar cells.

[0054] Embodiments of the panel 10 and a panel 10’ will now be described with reference to Figure 7 and Figure 8. The embodiments depicted in Figure 7 and Figure 8 are exemplary and not drawn to scale. Perceived gaps and relative dimensions are only to aid in the understanding of the disclosure and do not limit the scope of the disclosure. The panel 12 may include first subpanel 12a and second sub-panel 12b that are laminated together. The first sub-panel 12a and second sub-panel 12b may be laminated together using known adhesives such as Polyvinyl Butyral (PVB), Ethylene- Vinyl Acetate (EVA), and so on. The first sub-panel 12a has a lightreceiving surface 214. The light-receiving surface 214 typically faces an external environment and is the first surface that light will contact the panel 12. In an embodiment, the adhesives may include a material to allow the adhesive layer to act as a waveguide. For example, the adhesive may include a fluorescent material.

[0055] In panel 12, a solar cell 222 is laminated between the first sub-panel 12a and the second subpanel 12b. The solar cell 222 is sandwiched between adhesive layer 216 and adhesive layer 218. The solar cell 222 is representative of the solar cell arrangements. Put another way, the solar cell arrangements (14, 16, 18, 20 or 114, 116, 118 and 120) are laminated between the first sub-panel 12a and the second sub-panel 12b. Extending from the solar cell 222 is an electrical tab 225. The electrical tab 225 corresponds generally to the common positive terminal 130, first negative terminal 132a, second negative terminal 132b, third negative terminal 132c. The depiction of the electrical tab 225 extending from the side of the panel 12 in Figure 7 and Figure 8 is exemplary only and may optionally pass through the second sub-panel 12b. The first sub-panel 12a and / or second sub-panel 12b may have a stepped edge to allow the electrical tab 225 to pass through an edge of the panel 12 (not shown).

[0056] In an embodiment, a frit arrangement is provided on the panel 12. The frit arrangement extends past relative a surface normal of an edge of each of the solar cell arrangements. For example, the surface normal of the edge of the second frit region 232 extends along a surface normal direction extending from edge 234. The purpose of the frit arrangement is to create a uniform look, especially at the positions where there are gaps between solar cells, for instance around corners, between strips or to cover up slight layout imperfections. In an embodiment, the frit arrangement helps to obscure or hide the solar cell 222. The frit arrangement may also help with heat dissipation and accommodating differential thermal expansion of the panel 12.

[0057] The frit arrangement can be embodied in different forms. In one embodiment, and as shown in Figure 7, frit arrangement includes different frit regions, such as those printed onto the first subpanel 12a and / or second sub-panel 12b that work in combination. In one form, the frit arrangement includes a first frit region 228 and a second frit region 232 spaced from the first frit region 228. As shown in Figure 7, the first frit region 228 is formed on a rear side of the first sub-panel 12a such that the first frit region 228 is in contact with the adhesive layer 216. The first frit region 228 has an inner edge 230. The first frit region 228 is dimensioned such that the first frit region 228 overlaps with an outer edge 224 of the solar cell 222. Such an arrangement helps to obscure an edge of the panel 12 so that the outer edge 224 of the solar cell 222 is less visible. The second frit region 232 is positioned on the inner side of the second sub-panel 12b. The second frit region 232 extends inwards from an edge of the second sub-panel 12b and terminates at edge 234. A dimension of the second frit region 232 is such that the edge 234 is set inboard of an inner edge 226 of the solar cell 222. Accordingly, when viewing the panel 12 from the front (i.e. when looking towards the light-receiving surface 214). The second frit region 232 obscures an edge of the panel 12 so that the inner edge 226 of the solar cell 222 is less visible.

[0058] In Figure 7, the first frit region 228 and second frit region 232 are shown as being on separate sub-panels. However, in an embodiment, the first frit region 228 and second frit region 232 may be on the same sub-panel. For example, as shown in Figure 8, in panel 10’ the first frit region 228 and the second frit region 232 are both provided on the inner surface 238 of the first subpanel 12a. The second frit region 232 is spaced from the first frit region 228 such that a distance D extending from the inner edge 230 from first frit region 228 to an outer edge 236 of the second frit region 232 is smaller than a width W of the solar cell 222. In this way, the first frit region 228 obscures the outer edge 224 of the solar cell 222 and the second frit region 232 obscures the inner edge 226 of the solar cell 222. Although in panel 10’ the first frit region 228 and second frit region 232 are shown as being on the inner surface 238 of the first sub-panel 12a, they may be positioned on the light-receiving surface 214, or the inner surface 240 or the outer surface 242 of the second sub-panel 12b.

[0059] In an embodiment, the frit arrangement may include or be formed from a foil. For example, the foil may cover the solar cell 222 to provide a masking layer to visibly hide the solar cell 222 but still be transparent to allow specific wavelengths of light through to reach the solar cell 222 to generate electricity. In Figure 7 and Figure 8, the first sub-panel 12a and second sub-panel 12b are shown as having the same width. However, in an embodiment, the first sub-panel 12a may be larger than the first sub-panel 12a such that the first sub-panel 12a overhangs the second sub-panel 12b (not shown). Such an overhang provides a recess or channel that can receive the electrical tab 225.

[0060] The panel 12 and panel 12’ may include a hole or cutout to allow for wires, such as electrical tab 225, to exit the panel 12 and panel 12’ (not shown). Further, the panel 10 and panel 10’ may include a hole or cutout to allow for wires, such as electrical tab 225, to exit the panel 10 and panel 10’ (not shown). If a hole or cutout is required, it would typically be positioned behind one of the solar cell arrangements.

[0061] Although the panel 10 and panel 10’ are shown as being formed from a laminate structure, the disclosure is not limited to a laminate structure. Further, although the panel 12 and panel 12a’ are shown as being formed from a laminate structure, the disclosure is not limited to a laminate structure.

[0062] A dimension of the solar cell arrangements (e.g. 14, 16, 18 and 20 or 114, 116, 118 and 120) is dependent upon the application and use of the panel 10, 10’, or panel 100. A width of the solar cell arrangements can be varied by adjusting a width of the individual solar cells that form the solar cell arrangements. Similarly, a length of the solar cell arrangements can be adjusted by either adjusting the number of solar cells in the solar cell arrangements or adjusting a size in a length direction of the solar cells in the solar cell arrangements. As an example, the individual solar cells in the solar cell arrangements may have a dimension ranging from about 20-105mm by 20-210mm, such as 20-30mm by 70-80mm.

[0063] Although the widths of each of the solar cell arrangements (e.g. 14, 16, 18 and 20 or 114, 116, 118 and 120) is shown in the Figures as being equal, they may differ from one another. For example, a width of first solar cell arrangement 14, second solar cell arrangement 16 and fourth solar cell arrangement 20 may each have the same width, but a width of third solar cell arrangement 18 may be larger. A width of the solar cell used to form the solar cell arrangements (e.g. 14, 16, 18 and 20 or 114, 116, 118 and 120) may be up to 60mm. However, the overall width of the solar cell arrangements (e.g. 14, 16, 18 and 20 or 114, 116, 118 and 120) may vary anywhere from 20 mm up to 1000 mm. When a width of the solar cell arrangements (e.g. 14, 16, 18 and 20 or 114, 116, 118 and 120) is greater than a width of the individual solar cells used to form the solar cell arrangements (e.g. 14, 16, 18 and 20 or 114, 116, 118 and 120), the individual solar cells may be connected together, such as matrix shingling or back sheet contacting, connecting the cells parallel to each other along the width, and in series along the length. This results in the same voltage, whereas the sides are connected in parallel.

[0064] In an embodiment, the panel 10, the panel 10’, and / or panel 100 has an overall width of about 1200mm-1400mm, and height of about 1800mm-1900mm. A picture grid having a width of about 85mm may extend around a perimeter of the panel 12. The picture grid typically includes the frit arrangement (e.g. first frit region 228 and second frit region 232). The panel 10 and panel 100 may be dimensioned to fit within a frame having internal dimensions of 1328mm by 1878mm.

[0065] In an embodiment, the panel 10, the panel 10’, and / or panel 100 may be or form part of an outdoor advertising board, a window in a building, or a greenhouse panel.

[0066] Due to potential different expansion and contraction and light / heat absorption rates between the transmissive region 17 and the solar cell region 15, a cooling mechanism may be required in some embodiments to prevent cracking or other mechanical failure of the panel 12. Accordingly, in an embodiment, panel 10, panel 10’, panel 10a, panel 100 and / or panel system 300 includes a heat sink in thermal communication with the solar cell region 15, such as heat sink 44 shown in Figure 7. Note that heat sink 244 is only shown exemplary in Figure 7 and that its position relative an edge of the panel 12 and / or solar cell 222 may vary. The heat sink may be directly or indirectly adhered to the solar cell region 15. For example, the heat sink may be thermally connected to, such as with a thermally conductive adhesive, to the second sub-panel 12b (i.e. on a rear side) such that the heat sink is not visible from an outside of the panel 12. First frit region 228 and / or inner edge 230 may be used to hide of obscure vision of the heat sink. The heat sink may be configured to radiate heat away from the solar cell region 15, such as through the use of fins and the like. The heat sink may be associated with a thermal regulation fluid in thermal communication with the solar cell region 15.

[0067] An embodiment also provides a panel system 300. The panel system 300 includes a panel 302. The panel 302 may be the panel 10, the panel 10’, the panel 10a and / or the panel 100. The panel system 300 also a junction box 312, and an inverter 314 electrically connected to the junction box 312. The junction box 312 is shown as being spaced from the panel 302 in Figure 10 but it may be integrated into the panel 302, such as incorporated into the panel 100, secured to the panel 302 or be positioned remote from the panel 302. The panel system 300 also includes an electrical system 310. The inverter 314 generally forms part of the electrical system 310. The electrical system 310 also includes a battery 316. The battery 316 is connected to the inverter 314 and configured to be recharged by power generated by the solar cell arrangements from the panel 10 and / or panel 100.

[0068] In an embodiment, an operating voltage of the electrical system 310 is 24V. The battery 316 may be a 24V battery. The inverter 314 may be a microinverter.

[0069] The panel system 300 may be or form part of an outdoor advertising board, a window in a building, or a greenhouse panel. In an embodiment, the panel system 300 forms part of an outdoor advertising board. Put another way, in an embodiment, an outdoor advertising board comprises the panel system 300.

[0070] In the claims that follow and in the preceding description, except where the context requires otherwise due to express language or necessary implication, the word “comprise” or variations such as “comprises” or “comprising” is used in an inclusive sense, i.e. to specify the presence of the stated features but not to preclude the presence or addition of further features in various embodiments.

[0071] It is to be understood that, if any prior art publication is referred to herein, such reference does not constitute an admission that the publication forms a part of the common general knowledge in the art.

[0072] Modifications and variations as would be apparent to a skilled addressee are deemed to be within the scope of the present disclosure.

Claims

Claims1 . A panel for generating electricity from electromagnetic radiation, the panel comprising: a panel that is at least partially transmissive for light; and at least two solar cell arrangements provided on or associated with the panel in such a manner to form a solar cell region where light can be absorbed by the at least two solar cell arrangements and a transmissive region adjacent the solar cell region where light can pass through and exit the panel, each solar cell arrangement having a series-connected solar cell module with a same number of solar cells thereby determining an operating voltage of the panel, wherein the solar cell modules of each solar cell arrangement are connected in parallel such that the panel has a single positive terminal and at least one negative terminal.

2. A panel of claim 1 , wherein each solar cell arrangement comprises at least two series- connected solar cell modules connected in series, wherein a first set of solar cell modules formed from a first solar cell module of each of the at least two solar cell arrangements are connected in parallel to define a first negative terminal and a second set of solar cell modules formed from a second solar cell module of each of the at least two solar cell arrangements are connected in parallel to define a second negative terminal.

3. A panel of claim 2, wherein each solar cell arrangement comprises three series- connected solar cell modules connected in series, wherein a third set of solar cell modules formed from a third solar cell module of each from each of the at least two solar cell arrangements are connected in parallel to define a third negative terminal.

4. A panel of any one of claims 1 to 3, further comprising a diode between the positive terminal and the negative terminal, and between each terminal of the at least one negative terminal.

5. A panel of claim 4, wherein the diodes are positioned in a junction box that the positive terminal and the at least one negative terminal is connected to.

6. A panel of any one of claims 1 to 5, wherein each series-connected solar cell module is formed from shingled solar cells.

7. A panel of any one of claims 1 to 6, wherein each series-connected solar cell module includes 15 to 20 solar cells.

8. A panel of any one of claims 1 to 7, wherein operating voltage of the panel is up to 105V, such as up to 70V or up to 45V.

9. A panel of claim 8, wherein the operating voltage of the panel ranges from 26V to 32V.

10. A panel of any one of claims 1 to 9, wherein each of the at least two solar cell arrangements have a plurality of solar cell modules such that each of the at least two solar cell arrangements comprise 54, 60 or 72 solar cells.

11. A panel of any one of claims 1 to 10, further comprising a frit extending past relative a surface normal of an edge of each of the at least two solar cell arrangements.

12. A panel of any one of claims 1 to 11 , wherein the panel comprises a first sub-panel and a second sub-panel laminated together, wherein the at least two solar cell arrangements are laminated between the first sub-panel and the second sub-panel.

13. A panel of claim 12, wherein the first sub-panel is larger than the second sub-panel such that the first sub-panel overhangs the second sub-panel.

14. A panel of any one of claims 1 to 13, wherein the solar cell modules of each solar cell arrangement are connected in parallel using a flexible circuit positioned either at a side or on a back of each of the at least two solar cell arrangements.

15. A panel of any one of claims 1 to 14, wherein the at least two solar cell arrangements are positioned towards or at an edge of the panel.

16. A panel of claim 15, comprising four solar cell arrangements, wherein each of the four solar cell arrangements are positioned along different edges of the panel.

17. A panel of any one of claims 1 to 14, wherein the at least two solar cell arrangements are positioned parallel to one another.

18. A panel of any one of claims 1 to 17, wherein the panel forms part of an outdoor advertising board, a window in a building, or a greenhouse panel.

19. A panel of any one of claims 1 to 18, further comprising a heat sink in thermal communication with the solar cell region configured to remove heat from the solar cell region.

20. A panel system comprising: the panel of any one of claims 1 to 19, a junction box electrically connected to the at least two solar cell arrangements associated with the panel; and an inverter electrically connected to the junction box.

21. A panel system of claim 20, further comprising an electrical system connected to the junction box and / or the inverter, the electrical system including a battery connected to the inverter and configured to be recharged by power generated by the at least two solar cell arrangements.

22. A panel system of claim 21 , wherein an operating voltage of the electrical system is equal to or larger than a voltage of the battery.

23. A panel system of claim 22, wherein the operating voltage of the electrical system is 24V.

24. A panel system of any one of claims 21 to 23, wherein the battery is a 24V battery.

25. A panel system of any one of claims 20 to 24, wherein the inverter is a microinverter.

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