Solar cell module and method for producing a solar cell module

Abstract

The invention relates to a solar cell module of a plurality of solar cells, a front cover (1), a rear cover (2) and an encapsulation layer (3) arranged between the front and rear covers (1, 2), the solar cells being embedded in the encapsulation layer (3), having at least one electrically conductive connection connector (4) which electrically conductively connects a solar cell connection point (A), which is arranged between the front and rear cover (2), and a rear connection point (B) on the rear side of the solar cell module. It is essential that the connection connector (4) is arranged running around an outer edge of the rear cover (2) such that the connection connector (4) does not penetrate the rear cover (2) and that the solar cell module has at least one electrical insulating insulation (5) arranged on the side of the connection connector (4) facing away from the outer edge. The invention further relates to a method for producing a solar cell module.

Description

[0001] title

[0002] Solar cell module and method for manufacturing a solar cell module

[0003] Description

[0004] The present invention relates to a solar cell module according to claim 1 and a method for manufacturing a solar cell module according to claim 13.

[0005] In solar cell modules, it is known to embed a plurality of solar cells in an encapsulation layer and to arrange the encapsulation layer between a front cover and a back cover. The covers serve to protect the encapsulation layer and the solar cells, whereby, at least through the front cover, electromagnetic radiation enters the solar cell module during use in order to strike the solar cells in the encapsulation layer.

[0006] Typically, electrical conductors are routed through holes in the back cover as connection connectors to the rear of the solar cell module, i.e., to the rear of the back cover, in order to form an electrical connection of the solar cells, possibly with interconnection of further solar cells of the solar cell module, intermediate insertion of bypass diodes, interconnection with further solar cell modules and / or to connect the solar cells to external connection points.

[0007] The holes described above in the back cover impair the mechanical stability of the overall solar cell module assembly. This is particularly relevant due to increasing module sizes and decreasing thicknesses of front and back covers, especially the decreasing glass thickness when glass is used as the cover material. Furthermore, there is a risk that moisture can penetrate the assembly, and especially the encapsulation layer, through the holes. This can lead to a significant degradation of module performance.

[0008] 34775-P-DE Di / co 16.04.2025The present invention is therefore based on the objective of providing a solar cell module and a method for manufacturing a solar cell module which overcomes the aforementioned disadvantages at least partially.

[0009] This problem is solved by a solar cell module according to claim 1 and a method for manufacturing a solar cell module according to claim 13.

[0010] The method according to the invention is preferably designed for the production of the solar cell module according to the invention, in particular an advantageous embodiment thereof. The solar cell module according to the invention is preferably produced using the method according to the invention, preferably using an advantageous embodiment thereof.

[0011] The solar cell module according to the invention comprises a plurality of solar cells, a front cover, a back cover, and an encapsulation layer arranged between the front and back covers. The solar cells are embedded in the encapsulation layer.

[0012] The solar cell module further comprises at least one electrically conductive connector that electrically connects a solar cell connection point located between the front and rear covers to a rear connection point on the rear of the solar cell module. This connector thus enables electrical contact between the solar cells embedded in the encapsulation layer on the rear of the solar cell module. The rear connection point can be located directly or indirectly on the rear of the rear cover or directly or indirectly on a frame of the solar cell module.

[0013] It is essential that the connector is arranged around an outer edge of the back cover, so that the connector does not penetrate the back cover.

[0014] This eliminates the need to provide cutouts and, in particular, holes in the back cover to allow the connector to pass through the cutouts of the

[0015] 34775-P-DE Di / co 16.04.2025 to pass through the rear cover.

[0016] The solar cell module features electrically insulating insulation, which is located at least on the side of the connector facing away from the outer edge of the back cover. This electrical insulation protects the connector from external influences and reduces the risk of edge-side leakage current.

[0017] The inventive method for manufacturing a solar cell module comprises the following process steps:

[0018] A plurality of solar cells are embedded in an encapsulation layer. A front cover is arranged on a front side of the encapsulation layer and a rear cover on a rear side of the encapsulation layer, wherein at least one electrically conductive connector is arranged at a solar cell connection point located between the front and rear covers and a rear connection point is arranged on the rear side of the rear cover.

[0019] It is essential that the connector is positioned around an outer edge of the back cover so that it does not penetrate the back cover. Furthermore, electrically insulating insulation is provided at least on the side of the connector facing away from the outer edge of the back cover.

[0020] This results in the advantages previously described for the solar cell module according to the invention.

[0021] In the solar cell module and the method according to the invention, the connector does not penetrate the back cover. This means that the connector is not guided through a recess in the back cover that completely encloses the connector. It is within the scope of the invention that the back cover, in the area where the connector is guided from the front encapsulation layer to the back of the back cover, is not straight, and in particular, does not have straight side surfaces. In particular, it is within the scope of the invention that

[0022] 34775-P-DE Di / co 16.04.2025Framework of the invention that the connecting connector is guided through a notch or indentation on the edge of the rear cover.

[0023] It is advantageous that the back cover has straight side surfaces, at least in the edge area where the connecting connector is routed from the encapsulation layer to the back of the back cover. This avoids the process steps for forming indentations or notches, which can impair stability and lead to additional costs. In particular, it is advantageous that the back cover is essentially cuboid, preferably rectangular.

[0024] To achieve high stability of the back cover, it is advantageous for the back cover to be free of recesses, particularly cutouts. The back cover is preferably free of holes. The increased stability allows, in particular, the use of thinner back covers and thus material savings. It is especially advantageous for the back cover to be free of holes.

[0025] To achieve high stability, it is advantageous that at least the front cover, encapsulation layer and back cover are designed as a laminate.

[0026] In the method according to the invention, at least the front cover, encapsulation layer and back cover are preferably laminated, preferably by means of heating and / or pressure.

[0027] Advantageously, the insulation borders the encapsulation layer at a first end region. In a particularly advantageous embodiment, the insulation is embedded in the encapsulation layer at a first end region, in particular with a length of at least 1 mm, preferably at least 3 mm, and more preferably at least 5 mm. Preferably, the insulation is embedded in the encapsulation layer with a length of less than 10 cm, in particular less than 5 cm, and more preferably less than 2 cm.

[0028] 34775-P-DE Di / co 16.04.2025 Adjacent to or embedded in the insulation increases stability and reduces the risk of damage to the connector from external influences, especially moisture.

[0029] The insulating layer is preferably designed as an insulating layer, in particular as a planar insulating layer. Preferably, the insulation is designed as a covering for the connector, in particular as a sheathing for the connector. In particular, the insulation can be designed as the outer surface of a hollow cylinder, with the connector being embedded in the hollow cylinder.

[0030] In an advantageous embodiment, the insulation is designed as a sheathing of the connector, wherein the sheathing preferably abuts the encapsulation layer at a first end region or is embedded in the encapsulation layer at the first end region. The sheathing ensures comprehensive electrical insulation of the connector. The arrangement of the sheathing at the first end region adjacent to the encapsulation layer or its embedding in the encapsulation layer at the first end region increases electrical safety by preventing short circuits. These advantages are achieved to a greater extent in the advantageous embodiment in which the sheathing is embedded in the encapsulation layer at a first end region, preferably in that the embedded region of the first end region has a length of at least 1 mm, preferably a length in the range of 5 mm to 50 mm.

[0031] Furthermore, the sheathing enables particularly long-term stable electrical insulation.

[0032] Preferably, the insulation, particularly in the form of a sheathing, is made of one or more insulating polymer materials.

[0033] It is generally known to arrange one or more junction boxes on the back of a solar cell module's back cover. Junction boxes allow the connection of the terminal connector to other terminal connectors, to external electrical connections, and / or the provision of bypass elements, in particular bypass diodes.

[0034] 34775-P-DE Di / co 16.04.2025 The present invention enables the arrangement of a junction box close to, and in particular directly adjacent to, an edge of the back cover, since the connector runs around the outer edge of the back cover. Furthermore, it is advantageous that the junction box can be arranged close to a circumferential frame of the solar cell module and is not determined by the position of a feedthrough, in particular an opening in the back cover.

[0035] In an advantageous embodiment, at least one junction box is arranged on the rear side of the rear cover. The rear connection point is preferably located in the junction box. In particular, one end of the connector is preferably located in the junction box.

[0036] In particular, it is advantageous that the junction box is arranged at a distance of less than 50 mm, in particular less than 10 mm, preferably less than 5 mm to the edge of the back cover, in particular to the edge formed as a laminate edge when at least the front cover, encapsulation layer and back cover are formed as a laminate, around which the connector is arranged.

[0037] Shorter cable runs are achieved by positioning the junction box close to or immediately adjacent to the edge of the back cover.

[0038] It is particularly advantageous that the insulation is adjacent to or extends into the junction box. This prevents moisture from outside the junction box from penetrating between the electrically conductive part of the connector and the insulation.

[0039] As previously described, the present invention enables higher stability, particularly of the back covers, so that the use of other materials and / or the use of materials with a smaller thickness and / or more cost-effective materials is possible.

[0040] 34775-P-DE Tue / co 16.04.2025 In an advantageous embodiment, the back cover has a glass layer; in particular, the back cover is preferably made of glass. This enables, in particular, an advantageous embodiment of the solar cell module as a bifacial solar cell module, in which electromagnetic radiation can penetrate the solar cell module from both the front and the back and be converted into electrical power by the solar cells.

[0041] In particular, it is advantageous that the front and back covers have glass layers with the same material composition and preferably the same thickness. This simplifies warehousing and material procurement, as the same materials can be used for both the front and back covers.

[0042] In particular, it is therefore advantageous that the front cover and back cover are made of glass, preferably with the same material composition and thickness.

[0043] In an advantageous embodiment, the back cover is designed as a film, in particular as a polymer film; moreover, the front cover is preferably made of glass. A film as the back cover offers cost advantages compared to the use of glass.

[0044] It is within the scope of the invention that the front cover is designed as a film, in particular as a polymer film.

[0045] As previously stated, the front and back covers are preferably designed as planar elements. The thickness of the back cover is therefore preferably smaller than its length and width, in particular by at least a factor of 10, preferably by at least a factor of 100, than its length and width. Likewise, the thickness of the front cover is therefore preferably smaller than its length and width, in particular by at least a factor of 100.

[0046] 34775-P-DE Di / co 16.04.2025 a size at least 10 times smaller, preferably at least 100 times smaller, than the length and width of the front cover.

[0047] In an advantageous embodiment, the front and back covers have the same length and width. This allows the use of known methods and devices for manufacturing solar cell modules.

[0048] In an advantageous embodiment, the rear cover has a smaller width and / or length than the front cover, so that the cell connector protrudes only slightly, preferably not at all, beyond the front cover.

[0049] In a preferred embodiment, the solar cells are embedded in the encapsulation layer at least on a front and a back side, preferably on all sides, with one or more electrical connecting conductors leading to the solar cells for electrical interconnection, in particular in a solar cell string.

[0050] Investigations by the applicant show that solar cells, in particular those with a perovskite absorber layer, are susceptible to moisture ingress, as this leads to particularly strong moisture-dependent degradation and thus a reduction in efficiency.

[0051] The solar cell module and the method according to the invention are therefore particularly suitable for use with solar cells containing a perovskite absorber layer. Such solar cells are, in particular, multi-junction solar cells, preferably tandem solar cells, in which one sub-cell has a perovskite absorber layer. In an advantageous embodiment, the solar cells therefore have a perovskite absorber layer. It is particularly advantageous that the solar cells are designed as multi-junction solar cells, especially as tandem solar cells, with at least one perovskite absorber layer.

[0052] To increase the stability of the solar cell module, it is advantageous for the solar cell module to have a frame, preferably a surrounding frame.

[0053] 34775-P-DE Tue / co 16.04.2025 It is advantageous that the connector is located at least in a partial area between the rear cover and the frame. This protects the connector, at least in this partial area, from external influences, in particular mechanical influences and moisture, by the frame.

[0054] To increase stability, it is advantageous to arrange a bonding material, preferably an adhesive, between the frame and at least the back cover, preferably between the frame, back cover, front cover, and encapsulation layer. This creates a material-bonded connection between the frame and the back cover. The connecting connector is advantageously embedded in the bonding material, at least in a partial area. This further increases protection against mechanical stress and moisture. It is within the scope of the invention that the bonding material, in particular the adhesive, is arranged only in partial areas between the frame, back cover, front cover, and encapsulation layer.

[0055] In an advantageous embodiment, the solar cell module has an edge sealing layer which covers at least the edge region of the encapsulation layer in the area of ​​the connector, so that the connector and the insulation are arranged between the encapsulation layer and the edge sealing layer, or preferably, the connector and the insulation are embedded in the edge sealing layer, at least in the area of ​​the encapsulation layer. This reduces the risk of moisture penetrating the encapsulation layer.

[0056] Preferably, the edge sealing layer is formed around, and in particular completely around, the outer edge of the encapsulation layer. Advantageously, the connecting connector, in particular the connecting connector and the insulation, penetrates the edge seal.

[0057] The edge sealing layer is preferably made of a polymer, in particular butyl.

[0058] 34775-P-DE Di / co 16.04.2025 The connecting connector advantageously has a cross-sectional area in the range of 0.1 mm² 2 up to 10 mm 2 , preferably 0.4 mm 2 up to 5 mm 2 on.

[0059] To avoid hotspots, especially in the case of partial shading of the solar cell module, it is known to provide one or more bypass elements.

[0060] The solar cells of the solar cell module according to the invention are preferably electrically interconnected in a manner known per se. In particular, it is advantageous that several subgroups of the solar cell are connected in series, in so-called strings, and further preferably that several of these strings are connected in parallel. In particular, it is within the scope of the invention to use interconnection patterns of solar cells known per se in previously known solar cell modules in the solar cell module according to the invention.

[0061] It is also within the scope of the invention to design circuit types and parallel circuits of bypass elements that are known per se.

[0062] In an advantageous embodiment, the solar cell module according to the invention has one or more bypass elements. A bypass element is preferably designed as a bypass diode, as a MOSFET, or as an electrical circuit.

[0063] In the solar cell module according to the invention, it is particularly advantageous that at least one bypass element, preferably a bypass diode, is arranged between the front and rear covers. In this way, the bypass element does not need to be located on the rear of the solar cell module, especially not in a junction box, thus reducing the number of connecting wires required. It is therefore advantageous for the bypass element to be embedded in the encapsulation layer.

[0064] In an advantageous embodiment, the solar cell module has at least one bypass element, preferably a bypass diode, which is arranged on the back side of the solar cell module, in particular on the back cover or on a frame of the solar cell module. This eliminates the need for complex embedding of the bypass element in the encapsulation layer.

[0065] 34775-P-DE Di / co 16.04.2025 In this advantageous embodiment, the bypass element is preferably electrically connected to the rear connection point of the connector. This results in a structurally simple wiring of the bypass element.

[0066] In an advantageous further development of the previously described embodiment, the solar cell module has, in addition to the first connector, at least one second connector. The second connector is also arranged extending around an outer edge of the rear cover, so that it does not penetrate the rear cover and the electrical insulation or further electrical insulation of the solar cell module is located at least on the side of the second connector facing away from the outer edge of the rear cover. The second connector electrically connects a second solar cell connection point located between the front and rear covers to a second rear connection point on the rear of the solar cell module. The bypass element is interposed between the first rear connection point and the second rear connection point.This allows the use of the non-embedded bypass element with back covers without cutouts.

[0067] Advantageously, the first rear connection point, the second rear connection point, and the bypass element are arranged in a common junction box. This results in short cable runs and protects the bypass element from external influences.

[0068] To achieve short cable paths, the connector is preferably arranged perpendicular to a longitudinal extension of the edge of the back cover.

[0069] Further advantageous features and designs are described below with reference to exemplary embodiments and figures. These show:

[0070] Figure 1 shows a cross-section of a partial area of ​​a first embodiment of a solar cell module according to the invention;

[0071] Figure 2 shows a cross-section of a partial area of ​​a second embodiment of a solar cell module according to the invention;

[0072] 34775-P-DE Di / co 16.04.2025 Figure 3 shows a cross-section of a partial area of ​​a third embodiment of a solar cell module according to the invention;

[0073] Figure 4 shows a cross-section of a partial area of ​​a fourth embodiment of a solar cell module according to the invention;

[0074] Figures 5 to 11, as well as 12 and 14 each show a further embodiment of a solar cell module according to the invention in a mesh representation;

[0075] Figure 13 shows a cross-section of a partial area of ​​the embodiment shown in Figure 12 and

[0076] Figure 15 shows a cross-section of a partial area of ​​the embodiment shown in Figure 14.

[0077] All figures are schematic representations not to scale. Identical reference numerals in the figures denote identical or equivalent elements. Figures 1 to 4 show a partial area with a connector for each of four different embodiments of a solar cell module according to the invention. Each figure depicts a cross-section of an edge region of the solar cell module, with the front side shown at the bottom and the back side at the top.

[0078] Figure 1 shows a cross-section perpendicular to the front face of a first embodiment of a solar cell module according to the invention.

[0079] The solar cell module according to the first embodiment has a front cover 1 designed as a cuboid glass plate and a rear cover 2 also designed as a cuboid glass plate. An encapsulation layer 3 is arranged between the front cover 1 and the rear cover 2, with several solar cells being embedded in the encapsulation layer 3, as described below with reference to Figures 5 to 11.

[0080] The solar cell module has an electrically conductive connector 4, which is designed as a flat metal strip with a length of 35 mm, a width of 5 mm and a thickness of 0.3 mm, thus having a cross-sectional area of ​​1.5 mm². 2 exhibits.

[0081] 34775-P-DE Tue / co 16.04.2025 As can be seen in Figure 1, the connector 4 is arranged around an edge R of the back cover 2, which is located on the right side in the illustration of Figure 1, so that the connector 4 does not penetrate the back cover 2. The edge R has an elongated extent that is perpendicular to the plane of the drawing in Figure 1. In the edge region R, the connector 4 is thus arranged perpendicular to the longitudinal extent of the edge region R.

[0082] Furthermore, the connector 4 has electrically insulating insulation 5, which is designed as a sheath. The sheath 5 is embedded in the encapsulation layer 3 at a first end region of the sheath 5.

[0083] A junction box 8 is located on the rear side of the rear cover 2. The rear connection point B of the solar cell module is located in the junction box 8, meaning that one end of the connector 4 terminates in the junction box 8. Furthermore, the sheath 5 extends into the junction box 8 at a second end, so that the electrically conductive part of the connector 4 is completely protected from external influences such as mechanical stress or moisture by the sheath and the junction box 8. The end of the connector 4 opposite the rear connection point B is located in the encapsulation layer 3 as the solar cell connection point A for electrical connection to a solar cell of the solar cell module.

[0084] The solar cell module further comprises a metallic frame 6, which in this case is designed with a U-profile. The frame 6 is bonded to the assembly consisting of a front cover, a back cover, and an encapsulation layer by means of a bonding material 7, in this case an adhesive. It is within the scope of the invention that the frame 6 has other shapes and / or hollow chambers, in particular is designed as a hollow chamber profile.

[0085] As can be seen in Figure 1, the connecting connector is arranged in a partial area between the rear cover and the frame 6 and, in particular, is embedded in the connecting material 7 in this partial area. Specifically, the outer part of the sheath is

[0086] 34775-P-DE Di / co 16.04.2025 formed insulation 5 on the side of the connector 4 facing away from the outer edge of the rear cover 2.

[0087] Figure 2 shows a modification of the first embodiment as the second embodiment. To avoid repetition, the essential differences from the first embodiment are explained below.

[0088] The insulation 5 is not designed as a sheath, but rather as insulation 5, which covers the connector 4 in the edge region R on the side of the connector 4 facing away from the outer edge of the rear cover 2 and is thus located between the connector 4 and the connecting material 7. In the area of ​​the encapsulation layer 3, the insulation 5 is located on the side of the connector facing away from the rear cover and is thus located between the connector 4 and the encapsulation layer 3. In a rear area, the insulation 5 is located on the side of the connector 4 facing away from the rear cover and is thus located partly between the connector 4 and the connecting material 7, partly between the connector 4 and the ambient atmosphere, and partly within the junction box 8.

[0089] Figure 3 shows a further modification of the first embodiment as the third embodiment. To avoid repetition, the essential differences from the first embodiment are explained below.

[0090] In the third embodiment, the rear cover 2 has a smaller width (horizontal extent as shown in Figure 3) than the front cover 1, so that the cell connector does not protrude beyond the front cover. As can be seen in Figure 3, the width of the rear cover 2 is reduced by the difference D compared to the front cover 1, where D corresponds approximately to the total thickness of the connector 4 encased in insulation 5.

[0091] Figure 4 shows a further modification of the first embodiment as the fourth embodiment. To avoid repetition, the essential differences from the first embodiment are explained below.

[0092] 34775-P-DE Di / co 16.04.2025 The fourth embodiment additionally comprises a bypass element 9 designed as a bypass diode, which is embedded in the encapsulation layer 3 and is electrically connected on one side to the solar cell connection point A of the connector 4 and on the other side to a solar cell of the solar cell module. In the following embodiments, the bypass elements are designed as bypass diodes. In a modification of the embodiments, the bypass elements are designed as a MOSFET or an electrical circuit.

[0093] Figures 5 to 11 show exemplary embodiments of solar cell modules according to the invention in a schematic, not to-scale representation. Each figure shows a folded section (network, with the surface boundaries represented by dashed lines) of an exemplary embodiment of a solar cell module according to the invention, with the front cover 1 in a top view, as well as four adjoining edge regions R, R1, R2, R3. The encapsulation layer is not shown; it is arranged perpendicular to the plane of the drawing beneath the front cover 1. The edge regions thus comprise edge regions of the front cover 1, the encapsulation layer, and the back cover 2. The back cover 2 is shown in two parts for better clarity regarding the connection connectors arranged on opposite edges of the front cover 1 in Figures 5 to 7.The separation of the back cover 2 in this two-part representation is shown as a curved line.

[0094] To illustrate the interconnection of the solar cells, each solar cell embedded in the encapsulation layer is represented by a diode symbol. Several solar cells are connected in series to form a solar cell string. The black arrows indicate the current direction in the solar cell string when illuminated. One solar cell is marked with the reference symbol 10 as an example. The solar cell strings are partially electrically connected at the edges of the solar cell module using string connectors. At least one string connector is marked with the reference symbol 11 as an example.

[0095] In some cases, bypass elements designed as bypass diodes are arranged in the junction boxes or in the encapsulation layer and are electrically connected to solar cells, string connectors, edge connectors, and / or terminal connectors. The bypass diodes are each configured as

[0096] 34775-P-DE Di / co 16.04.2025 Diode symbol shown. A bypass diode is marked with the reference symbol 9 as an example.

[0097] The embodiments of the solar cell modules shown in Figures 5 to 11 each have a frame 6 arranged at the edge by means of connecting material, as shown, for example, in Figure 1. For the sake of clarity in the mesh representation, the connecting material and frame are not shown in Figures 5 to 11.

[0098] Figure 5 shows an embodiment of a solar cell module according to the invention, which has 12 horizontally arranged solar cell strings, each with 10 solar cells 10. Two solar cell strings are connected in series to form a double string by means of edge connectors 11. The double strings are connected in series by means of centrally arranged solar cell connectors 11. Furthermore, a bypass diode 9 is arranged centrally between the endpoints of each double string. Two double strings that are horizontally opposite each other in the illustration according to Figure 5 are each connected electrically in parallel.

[0099] A connector 4, 4.1 is arranged at each of two opposing edge regions R and R.2. Each connector 4, 4.1 is thus arranged around an outer edge of the rear cover 2, so that the connector does not penetrate the rear cover 2. Two junction boxes 8, 8.1 are arranged on the rear cover. Connector 4 electrically connects the solar cell connection point A, which connects to the endpoints of the two upper double strings, and the rear connection point B located in junction box 8. Connector 4.1 electrically connects the solar cell connection point Al, which connects to the endpoints of the two upper double strings, and the rear connection point Bl located in junction box 8.1.

[0100] Both connectors 4, 4.1 each have insulation 5 designed as a sheath, which is embedded in the encapsulation layer at the end facing the solar cell connection point A and is arranged in the junction box 8, 8.1 at the end facing the rear connection point B. In cross-section, the structure thus corresponds to that shown in

[0101] 34775-P-DE Di / co 16.04.2025 Figure 1 arrangement shown, with cutting plane perpendicular to the drawing plane in Figure 5 along the cutting line S.

[0102] Figure 6 shows an embodiment of a solar cell module according to the invention, which is a modification of the embodiment shown in Figure 5: The two outer bypass diodes are arranged in the terminal boxes 8 and 8.1, so that only a central bypass diode 9.1 needs to be embedded in the encapsulation layer.

[0103] As in Figure 5, the connector 4 electrically connects the solar cell connection point A, which connects to the endpoints of the two upper double strings, and the rear connection point B located in the junction box 8. The connector 4.1 electrically connects the solar cell connection point Al, which connects to the endpoints of the two upper double strings, and the rear connection point Bl located in the junction box 8.1.

[0104] Additionally, a connector 4.2 connects a solar cell connection point A.2 in the encapsulation layer to a rear-side connection point B.2 in the junction box 8.1. A bypass diode 9 is interposed between rear-side connection point Bl and rear-side connection point B.2. To prevent electrical contact between the connector 4.2 and a cross-connection of the outermost solar cell strings (lowest in Figure 6), additional electrical insulation 5.2 is arranged between the cross-connection and the connector 4.2.

[0105] Accordingly, a connector 4.3 additionally connects a solar cell connection point A.3 in the encapsulation layer to a rear connection point B.3 in the junction box 8. A bypass diode is interposed between rear connection point B.3 and rear connection point B. To prevent electrical contact between the connector 4.3 and a cross-connection of the outermost solar cell strings (topmost in Figure 6), additional electrical insulation 5.3 is arranged between the cross-connection and the connector 4.3.

[0106] 34775-P-DE Tue / co 16.04.2025 An electrical insulation 5 is arranged at edge R and an electrical insulation 5.1 at edge R.2. The insulation 5 covers the outer sides of the terminal connectors 4 and 4.3; the insulation 5.1 covers the outer sides of the terminal connectors 4.1 and 4.2. Thus, insulation is arranged on the side of the terminal connectors (4, 4.1, 4.2, and 4.3) facing away from the outer edge of the rear cover 2.

[0107] Figure 7 shows an embodiment of a solar cell module according to the invention, which is a modification of the embodiment shown in Figure 6: The bypass diode 9.1 is also arranged in a junction box, in this case junction box 8.1. In this embodiment, therefore, no bypass element needs to be embedded in the encapsulation layer.

[0108] A fifth connector 4.4 connects a solar cell connection point A.4 in the encapsulation layer to a rear connection point B.4 in the junction box 8.1. The bypass diode 9.1 is thus connected between the rear connection point B.4 and B.2; the bypass diode 9 is connected between the rear connection point B.2 and Bl.

[0109] Electrical insulation 5.1 is arranged at edge R.2. The insulation 5.1 covers the outer sides of the connection connectors 4.1, 4.2 and 4.3.

[0110] Figure 8 shows an embodiment of a solar cell module according to the invention, which has 12 vertically arranged solar cell strings, each with 12 solar cells 10. By means of edge connectors 11, two solar cell strings are connected in parallel and two pairs of two parallel solar cell strings are connected in series to form a quadruple string. Three bypass diodes 9 are embedded in the encapsulation layer at the upper edge shown in Figure 8.

[0111] Connectors 4 and 4.1 are arranged at an edge region R. Each connector 4, 4.1 is arranged around the edge region R and thus around an outer edge of the rear cover 2, so that the connector does not penetrate the rear cover 2. Two junction boxes 8, 8.1 are arranged on the rear cover 2. Connector 4 electrically connects the solar cell connection point A and the rear connection point B located in junction box 8.

[0112] 34775-P-DE Di / co 16.04.2025 Connection connector 4.1 electrically connects the solar cell connection point Al and the rear connection point Bl located in the junction box 8.1.

[0113] In both connectors 4, 4.1, insulation 5, 5.1 is arranged on the side of the connector facing away from the edge region R and thus from the outer edge of the rear cover 2. At the end facing the solar cell connection point A, the insulation 5 is embedded in the encapsulation layer, and at the end facing the rear connection point B, it is located in the junction box 8. At the end facing the solar cell connection point Al, the insulation 5.1 is embedded in the encapsulation layer, and at the end facing the rear connection point Bl, it is located in the junction box 8.1. In cross-section, the structure thus corresponds to the arrangement shown in Figure 2.

[0114] Figure 9 shows an embodiment of a solar cell module according to the invention, which is a modification of the embodiment shown in Figure 8: All bypass diodes 9 are arranged in junction boxes. Compared to the one shown in Figure 8, this solar cell module has an additional junction box 8.2.

[0115] A bypass diode is arranged in junction box 8. A connector 4 connects a solar cell connection point A in the embedding layer to a rear-side connection point B in junction box 8. A connector 4.1 connects a solar cell connection point Al in the embedding layer to a rear-side connection point Bl in junction box 8. The bypass diode in junction box 8 is interposed between rear-side connection point B and rear-side connection point Bl. Electrical insulation 5 is arranged at edge R. The insulation 5 covers the outer sides of connectors 4 and 4.1. Thus, insulation is arranged on the side of connectors 4 and 4.1 facing away from the outer edge of the rear cover 2. The insulation is embedded in the encapsulation layer on the side facing solar cell connection points A and Al. On the side facing rear-side connection points B and B, the insulation is embedded in the encapsulation layer.In this embodiment, the insulation 5 on the side facing l ends before the junction box 8, and is therefore spaced away from the junction box.

[0116] 34775-P-DE Di / co 16.04.2025 A bypass diode is arranged in junction box 8.1. A connector 4.2 connects a solar cell connection point A.2 in the embedding layer to a rear-side connection point B.2 in junction box 8.1. A connector 4.3 connects a solar cell connection point A.3 in the embedding layer to a rear-side connection point B.3 in junction box 8.1. The bypass diode in junction box 8.1 is interposed between rear-side connection point B.2 and rear-side connection point B.3. Electrical insulation 5.1 is arranged at edge R. The insulation 5.1 covers the outer sides of connectors 4.2 and 4.3. Thus, insulation is arranged on the side of connectors 4.2 and 4.3 facing away from the outer edge of the rear-side cover 2. The insulation is embedded in the encapsulation layer on the side facing the solar cell connection points A.2 and A.3.On the side facing the rear connection points B.2 and B.3, the insulation 5.1 ends before the junction box 8.1, and is therefore spaced away from the junction box.

[0117] A bypass diode is arranged in junction box 8.2. A connector 4.4 connects a solar cell connection point A.4 in the embedding layer to a rear-side connection point B.4 in junction box 8.2. A connector 4.5 connects a solar cell connection point A.5 in the embedding layer to a rear-side connection point B.5 in junction box 8.2. The bypass diode in junction box 8.2 is interposed between rear-side connection points B.4 and B.4. Electrical insulation 5.2 is arranged at edge R. The insulation 5.2 covers the outer sides of connectors 4.4 and 4.5. Thus, insulation is arranged on the side of connectors 4.4 and 4.5 facing away from the outer edge of the rear cover 2. The insulation is embedded in the encapsulation layer on the side facing solar cell connection points A.4 and A.5. At the rear connection points B.4 and B.On the side facing 5, the insulation 5.2 ends before the junction box 8.2, and is therefore spaced away from the junction box.

[0118] Figure 10 shows an embodiment of a solar cell module according to the invention, which has 12 vertically arranged solar cell strings, each with 12 solar cells 10. By means of edge connectors 11, two solar cell strings are connected in parallel and two pairs of two parallel solar cell strings are connected in series to form a quadruple string.

[0119] 34775-P-DE Di / co 16.04.2025 Bypass diodes 9 are embedded in the encapsulation layer at the upper edge shown in Figure 10. Three longitudinal connectors 12, running parallel to the solar cell strings and perpendicular to them in the representation shown in Figure 10, are arranged to connect the bypass diodes. These connectors electrically connect the edge connectors 11 shown at the bottom of Figure 10 to connection points between each pair of bypass diodes at the upper edge shown in Figure 10.

[0120] Connectors 4 and 4.1 are arranged at an edge region R. Each connector 4, 4.1 is positioned around the edge region R and thus around an outer edge of the rear cover 2, so that the connector does not penetrate the rear cover 2. Two junction boxes 8, 8.1 are arranged on the rear cover 2. Connector 4 electrically connects the solar cell connection point A and the rear connection point B located in junction box 8. Connector 4.1 electrically connects the solar cell connection point Al and the rear connection point Bl located in junction box 8.1.

[0121] In both connectors 4, 4.1, insulation 5, 5.1, designed as a sheath, is arranged on the side of the connector facing away from the edge region R and thus from the outer edge of the rear cover 2. At the end facing the solar cell connection point A, the insulation 5 is embedded in the encapsulation layer, and at the end facing the rear connection point B, it is located in the junction box 8. At the end facing the solar cell connection point Al, the insulation 5.1 is embedded in the encapsulation layer, and at the end facing the rear connection point Bl, it is located in the junction box 8.1. In cross-section, the structure thus corresponds to the arrangement shown in Figure 1.

[0122] Figure 11 shows an embodiment of a solar cell module according to the invention, which is a modification of the embodiment shown in Figure 10: All bypass diodes 9 are arranged in junction boxes. Compared to the one shown in Figure 10, this solar cell module has an additional junction box 8.2. Two bypass diodes are arranged in each of the three junction boxes 8, 8.1, 8.2.

[0123] 34775-P-DE Tue / co 16.04.2025 The three longitudinal connectors 12 shown in Figure 10 are, in the embodiment shown in Figure 11, designed to extend around the edge region R and thus around an outer edge of the rear cover 2, in order to enable an electrical connection to the junction boxes. The three longitudinal connectors 12 are therefore also designed as connection connectors (4.1, 4.4, 4.7). Connection connector 4.1 connects a solar cell connection point Al on a lower string connector 11 (embedded in the encapsulation layer) to a rear connection point Bl in the junction box 8. Connection connector 4.4 connects a solar cell connection point A.4 on a lower string connector 11 (embedded in the encapsulation layer) to a rear connection point B.4 in the junction box 8.1. Connector 4.7 connects a solar cell connection point A.7 on a lower strand connector 11 (embedded in the encapsulation layer) with a rear connection point B.7 in the junction box 8.2.

[0124] A connector 4 connects a solar cell connection point A in the embedding layer to a rear-side connection point B in the junction box 8. A connector 4.2 connects a solar cell connection point A.2 in the embedding layer to a rear-side connection point B.2 in the junction box 8. A first bypass diode in junction box 8 is connected between rear-side connection point B and rear-side connection point B1. A second bypass diode in junction box 8 is connected between rear-side connection point B1 and rear-side connection point B.2. Electrical insulation 5 is arranged at the edge R. The insulation 5 covers the outer sides of connectors 4, 4.1, and 4.2. Thus, insulation is provided on the side of connectors 4, 4.1, and 4.2 facing away from the outer edge of the rear-side cover 2.

[0125] A connector 4.3 connects a solar cell connection point A.3 in the embedding layer to a rear-side connection point B.3 in the junction box 8.1. A connector 4.5 connects a solar cell connection point A.5 in the embedding layer to a rear-side connection point B.5 in the junction box 8.1. A first bypass diode in junction box 8.1 is connected between rear-side connection point B.3 and rear-side connection point B.4. A second bypass diode in junction box 8.1 is connected between rear-side connection point B.4 and rear-side connection point B.5. Electrical insulation 5.1 is arranged at the edge R. The insulation 5.1 covers the outer sides.

[0126] 34775-P-DE Di / co 16.04.2025 of the connection connectors 4.3, 4.4 and 4.5. Thus, insulation is arranged on the side of the connection connectors 4.3, 4.4 and 4.5 facing away from the outer edge of the rear cover 2.

[0127] A connector 4.6 connects a solar cell connection point A.6 in the embedding layer to a rear-side connection point B.6 in the junction box 8.2. A connector 4.7 connects a solar cell connection point A.7 in the embedding layer to a rear-side connection point B.7 in the junction box 8.2. A first bypass diode in junction box 8.2 is connected between rear-side connection point B.5 and rear-side connection point B.6. A second bypass diode in junction box 8.2 is connected between rear-side connection point B.6 and rear-side connection point B.7. Electrical insulation 5.2 is arranged at the edge R. The insulation 5.2 covers the outer sides of connectors 4.6, 4.7, and 4.8. Thus, insulation is provided on the side of connectors 4.6, 4.7, and 4.9 facing away from the outer edge of the rear-side cover 2.

[0128] In this embodiment, the insulations 5, 5.1 and 5.2 only cover the edge region R and do not extend to the back cover 2 and are not embedded in the encapsulation layer.

[0129] Figure 12 shows a modification of the embodiment shown in Figure 5. The embodiment shown in Figure 12 additionally features an edge seal 13, which is arranged on the outer surfaces of the edge sides R, R1, R2, and R3, and thus on the outside of the embedding layer 3 between the front cover 1 and the back cover 2. The edge seal 13 is made of polymer, in this case butyl, with a thickness of 1 mm and prevents moisture from penetrating the embedding layer.

[0130] The connecting connectors 4 and 4.1, as well as the insulation 5, penetrate the edge sealing layer. This is shown in Figure 13 a), which, analogous to Figure 1, shows a section perpendicular to the drawing plane in Figure 12 along the section line labeled S. In addition to the

[0131] 34775-P-DE Di / co 16.04.2025 In Figure 1, the edge seal 13 is visible in Figure 13 a), which is penetrated by the insulation 5 designed as a sheathing with the connecting connector 4.

[0132] Figure 13 b) shows a section perpendicular to the drawing plane in Figure 12 along the section line labelled S' in Figure 12. No connecting connector is arranged at this point, so that the edge seal completely fills the edge-side space between front cover 1 and back cover 2 and the encapsulation layer 3 borders the edge seal.

[0133] In an advantageous embodiment of the solar cell module according to the invention, at least two, preferably exactly two, connection connectors are arranged one above the other, and both connection connectors are arranged extending around an outer edge of the back cover, so that the connection connectors do not penetrate the back cover. Advantageously, insulation or further electrically insulating insulation is arranged between the stacked connection connectors.

[0134] In a variation of the previously described embodiments, the connecting connectors are arranged one above the other:

[0135] In the embodiment shown in Figure 6, the connecting connectors 4 and 4.3 are arranged one above the other perpendicular to the plane of the drawing and

[0136] The connecting connectors 4.1 and 4.2 are arranged one above the other, perpendicular to the plane of the drawing.

[0137] In the embodiment shown in Figure 7, the connecting connectors 4 and 4.3 are arranged one above the other perpendicular to the plane of the drawing and

[0138] The connecting connectors 4.1, 4.2 and 4.4 are arranged one above the other perpendicular to the plane of the drawing.

[0139] In the embodiment shown in Figure 9, the connecting connectors 4 and 4.1 are arranged one above the other perpendicular to the plane of the drawing and

[0140] The connecting connectors 4.2 and 4.3 are positioned one above the other, perpendicular to the plane of the drawing.

[0141] 34775-P-DE Tue / co 16.04.2025 ordered and

[0142] The connecting connectors 4.4 and 4.5 are arranged one above the other, perpendicular to the plane of the drawing.

[0143] In the embodiment shown in Figure 11, the connecting connectors 4, 4.1 and 4.2 are arranged one above the other perpendicular to the plane of the drawing and

[0144] the connecting connectors 4.3, 4.4 and 4.5 are arranged one above the other perpendicular to the plane of the drawing and

[0145] The connecting connectors 4.6, 4.7 and 4.8 are arranged one above the other perpendicular to the plane of the drawing.

[0146] Figure 14 shows an embodiment of a solar cell module according to the invention, which is a modification of the embodiment shown in Figure 6, wherein the connection connectors 4 and 4.3 are arranged one above the other perpendicular to the plane of the drawing. This embodiment has additional insulations 5.5, 5.6, 5.7, and 5.8. The insulations 5, 5.5, 5.6, 5.1, 5.7, and 5.8 are designed as electrically insulating insulating layers, wherein, in the area of ​​the embedding layer, insulations 5.5 and 5.7 are arranged facing the front cover 1, and insulations 5.6 and 5.8 are arranged facing the rear cover 2. Insulation 5 is arranged between insulations 5.5 and 5.6, and insulation 5.1 is arranged between insulations 5.7 and 5.8. The connecting connector 4 is located at least in the edge area between the insulations 5 and 5.6, the connecting connector 4.3 is located at least in the edge area between the insulations 5 and 5.5 arranged. The connecting connector 4.1 is arranged at least in the edge area between the insulations 5.1 and 5.8, the connecting connector 4.2 is arranged at least in the edge area between the insulations 5.1 and 5.7.

[0147] To illustrate the stacked connection connectors and insulation, Figure 15 shows a sectional view analogous to Figure 1, perpendicular to the drawing plane in Figure 14 at the section line marked S.

[0148] In the edge area, starting from the front cover 1 shown below, within the embedding layer 3, the following sequence of insulation 5.5 results:

[0149] 34775-P-DE Di / co 16.04.2025 Connector 4, insulation 5, connector 4.3, insulation 5.6. On the rear side of the back cover 2 (shown at the top in Figure 15), the sequence is reversed. Within the embedding layer 3, the outer insulations 5.6 and 5.5 are only continued in a peripheral area to ensure a good seal. Inside the module, only the insulation 5 is continued to provide electrical insulation between connectors 4 and 4.3.

[0150] 34775-P-DE Tue / co 16.04.2025 Reference number

[0151] 1 Front cover 2 Rear cover 3 Encapsulation layer 4, 4.1, 4.2, 4.3, 4.4,

[0152] 4.5, 4.6, 4.7, 4.8 Connection connectors 5, 5.1, 5.2, 5.3, 5.4,

[0153] 5.5, 5.6, 5.7, 5.8 Insulation

[0154] 6 frames

[0155] 7 Connection material 8, 8.1, 8.2 Junction box

[0156] 9 Bypass element

[0157] 10 solar cells

[0158] 11 strand connectors

[0159] 12 longitudinal connectors

[0160] 13 Edge sealing

[0161] 34775-P-DE Tue / co 16.04.2025

Claims

Claims 1. Solar cell module with a plurality of solar cells (10), a front cover (1), a rear cover (2) and an encapsulation layer (3) arranged between the front and rear covers (1,2), wherein the solar cells are embedded in the encapsulation layer (3), with at least one electrically conductive connector (4) which electrically connects a solar cell connection point (A) arranged between the front and rear cover (2) and a rear connection point (B) on the rear of the solar cell module, characterized by that the connector (4) is arranged extending around an outer edge of the rear cover (2) so that the connector (4) does not penetrate the rear cover (2), that the solar cell module has at least one electrically insulating insulation (5) which is arranged at least on the side of the connector (4) facing away from the outer edge of the rear cover (2).

2. Solar cell module according to claim 1, characterized by that the rear cover (2) is free of recesses, in particular free of cutouts, preferably free of holes.

3. Solar cell according to any of the preceding claims, characterized by that a first end region of the insulation (5) adjoins or is embedded in the encapsulation layer (3), in particular with a length of at least 1 mm, preferably with a length in the range of 5 mm to 50 mm embedded in the encapsulation layer. 34775-P-DE Di / co 16.04.20254. Solar cell module according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that, that at least one junction box (8) is arranged on the rear side of the rear cover (2) or on a frame of the solar cell module and that the rear connection point (B) is arranged in the junction box (8).

5. Solar cell module according to claim 4, characterized by that the insulation (5) adjoins the junction box or extends into the junction box (8).

6. Solar cell module according to any of the preceding claims, characterized by that the back cover (2) has a glass layer, in particular is made of glass.

7. Solar cell module according to any of the preceding claims, characterized by that the solar cells have a perovskite-containing absorber layer, preferably that the solar cells are designed as multiple solar cells, in particular as tandem solar cells.

8. Solar cell module according to any of the preceding claims, characterized by that the solar cell module has a frame (6), preferably a surrounding frame, and that the connector (4) is located at least in a partial area between the rear cover (2) and the frame (6).

9. Solar cell module according to claim 8, characterized by 34775-P-DE Di / co 16.04.2025 that a bonding material (7), preferably adhesive, is arranged between the frame (6) and at least the rear cover (2) at least in partial areas in order to bond the frame (6) to the rear cover (2) in a material-bonded manner and that the connecting connector (4) is embedded in the connecting material (7) at least in a partial area.

10. Solar cell module according to any of the preceding claims, characterized by that the cell connector has a cross-sectional area in the range of 0.3 mm 2 up to 6 mm 2 exhibits.

11. Solar cell module according to any of the preceding claims, characterized by that at least one bypass element (9), preferably a bypass diode, a MOSFET or an electrical circuit, is arranged between the front and back cover (2), preferably that the bypass element (9) is embedded in the encapsulation layer (3).

12. Solar cell module according to any of the preceding claims, characterized by that the solar cell module, in addition to the connector (4) as the first connector, has at least one second connector (4.1), wherein the second connector (4.1) is arranged extending around an outer edge of the rear cover (2) such that the second connector (4.1) does not penetrate the rear cover and the electrical insulation (5) or further electrical insulation (5.1) of the solar cell module is arranged at least on the side of the second connector (4.1) facing away from the outer edge of the rear cover (2), wherein the second connector (4.1) electrically connects a second solar cell connection point (Al) arranged between the front and rear covers and a second rear connection point (Bl) on the rear of the solar cell module. in particular, that the solar cell module has at least one bypass element (9), preferably one 34775-P-DE Di / co 16.04.2025 Bypass diode, which is arranged on the rear side of the solar cell module, preferably in a junction box, in particular on the rear cover (2) or on a frame of the solar cell module, and that the bypass element (9) is interposed between the first rear side connection point (B) and the second rear side connection point (Bl).

13. Method for manufacturing a solar cell module, in particular according to one of the preceding claims, where a plurality of solar cells are embedded in an encapsulation layer (3), a front cover (1) is arranged on a front side of the encapsulation layer (3) and a back cover (2) is arranged on a back side of the encapsulation layer (3) and wherein at least one electrically conductive connector (4), a solar cell connection point (A) arranged between the front and rear cover (2) and a rear connection point (B) is arranged in an electrically conductive manner on the rear of the rear cover (2), characterized by that the connector (4) is arranged extending around an outer edge of the rear cover (2) so that the connector (4) does not penetrate the rear cover (2), that an electrically insulating insulation is arranged at least on the side of the connector (4) facing away from the outer edge of the rear cover.

14. Method according to claim 13, characterized by that a rear cover (2) is used which has no recesses, preferably no cutouts, in particular no holes.

15. Method according to one of claims 13 to 14, characterized by 34775-P-DE Di / co 16.04.2025 that the solar cell module is designed with a frame (6), preferably a surrounding frame, wherein the frame (6) is arranged in a material-bonded manner on at least the rear cover (2) by means of a bonding material (7), preferably by means of an adhesive, and the connecting connector (4) is arranged at least in a partial area between the rear cover (2) and the frame (6), preferably embedded at least in a partial area in the bonding material (7). 34775-P-DE Tue / co 16.04.2025

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