3D Photovoltaic Cell Layout for Higher Solar Exposure
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional photo voltaic cells have limited efficiency due to their flat, two-dimensional design, which reduces the surface area exposed to radiant energy and results in less electricity generation, as they are not optimally oriented to follow the sun's movement.
Innovation Solution
The use of three-dimensionally oriented energy receiving cells, such as cubes or hexahedrons, mounted on a support base with an electric terminal, where each cell is angled relative to neighboring cells to maximize exposure to radiant energy and distribute heat efficiently, increasing the absorbable surface area and reducing heat loss.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of manufacture
If flat, two-dimensional photo voltaic cells are used, then the device structure is simple and easy to manufacture, but the surface area exposed to radiant energy is limited and efficiency is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The patent transitions from traditional flat, two-dimensional photo voltaic cells to three-dimensionally oriented cells (cubes or hexahedrons) mounted on a support base. This dimensional change increases the surface area exposed to radiant energy by approximately 42.27% while maintaining the same footprint dimensions, thereby resolving the contradiction between manufacturing simplicity and electricity generation efficiency.
2Device complexity
If flat photo voltaic cells are used, then the device complexity is low, but the surface area directly exposed to the energy source is limited
Solution Approach 1:
By orienting photo voltaic cells in three dimensions (as cubes or hexahedrons) rather than flat surfaces, the patent increases the exposed surface area by approximately 42.27% without significantly increasing device complexity. The cells are mounted on a support base with electrical connections, maintaining structural simplicity while maximizing energy exposure.
3Ease of manufacture
If flat photo voltaic cells are used, then installation is simple, but the cells are not optimally oriented to follow the sun's movement
Solution Approach 1:
The patent mounts photo voltaic cells in three-dimensional orientations (cubes or hexahedrons) on a support base, allowing multiple faces of each cell to be exposed to radiant energy throughout the day. This configuration follows the sun's movement more effectively than flat cells, increasing absorption efficiency by approximately 42.27% while maintaining installation simplicity.
4Area of moving object
If the support base structure is added to mount three-dimensional cells, then the surface area exposure is increased, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent uses a relatively simple support base structure to mount three-dimensionally oriented photo voltaic cells. The support base provides electrical connections and positioning, enabling the cells to be oriented vertically or at angles to maximize surface area exposure. This approach increases absorbable surface area by approximately 42.27% while keeping the support base structure relatively simple and manageable.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
This configuration enhances the absorption of radiant energy by increasing the surface area by approximately 42.27% compared to traditional flat cells, leading to higher electricity generation with an efficiency of 90-93%, while maintaining the same footprint dimensions.
Implementation Method 1
Photo voltaic systems, which are developed and utilized for generating electric power through the conversion of radiant energy—preferably solar energy
Data Source
AI summary
An apparatus for receiving energy is disclosed. The apparatus comprises a support base and a plurality of cells. The support base comprises an electric terminal. The plurality of cells are mounted to the support base. Further, each of the plurality of cells is electrically connected to the electric terminal disposed on the support base. In an embodiment each cell may be in the shape of a rhombus. Further, each of the plurality of cells may be oriented in a non-parallel relationship with each neighboring cell.