3D Photovoltaic Module Structure for Multi-Angle Solar Capture
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing photovoltaic modules and solar radiation concentrators are inefficient in capturing and utilizing both direct and scattered/reflected solar radiation, leading to fluctuating electrical power output and limited energy yield, especially under cloudy conditions.
Innovation Solution
A spatial structure comprising truncated pyramids or cones with specific inclination angles and concentration projections that capture and concentrate solar radiation from various directions, including direct, scattered, and reflected light, optimizing energy capture.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of manufacture
If photovoltaic modules are arranged in regular geometric formations with planar structure, then manufacturing and installation are simplified, but they can only utilize direct sunlight and cannot capture scattered and reflected solar radiation
Solution Approach 1:
The patent transitions from a two-dimensional planar structure to a three-dimensional spatial structure by arranging photovoltaic cells on the lateral surfaces of a regular polygonal prism. This dimensional change enables the module to capture solar radiation from multiple directions (direct, scattered, and reflected light) while maintaining manufacturing simplicity through the regular geometric formation of the prism structure.
2Use of energy by moving object
If concentrators (mirrors or lenses) are used to increase photon density on photovoltaic cells, then energy concentration is improved, but the modules overheat and investment costs increase
Solution Approach 1:
Instead of using optical concentrators that focus light onto small areas causing overheating, the patent distributes photovoltaic cells across the lateral surfaces of a prism, capturing radiation from multiple directions. This spatial distribution converts three-dimensional radiation capture into distributed energy generation, avoiding concentration-induced overheating while maintaining improved energy capture efficiency.
3Productivity
If photovoltaic modules are oriented at specific angles to maximize direct sunlight capture, then direct solar radiation utilization is optimized, but they cannot effectively capture scattered and reflected radiation from various directions
Solution Approach 1:
The patent creates a three-dimensional prism structure with photovoltaic cells arranged on lateral surfaces, enabling the module to capture solar radiation from multiple directions simultaneously. This spatial configuration provides adaptability to capture direct, scattered, and reflected radiation without requiring specific orientation angles, as the multi-faceted structure inherently receives light from various incident angles.
Solution Approach 2:
The prism-shaped photovoltaic module serves multiple functions: it captures direct sunlight, scattered radiation, and reflected light simultaneously. The regular geometric formation with lateral surfaces oriented at different angles provides universal capability to utilize various types of solar radiation, making the module adaptable to different environmental conditions and installation locations.
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
Enhances solar radiation capture efficiency by up to tens of percent, improving stability and consistency of electrical power output under varying cloud conditions.
Implementation Method 1
A spatial structure of a photovoltaic cell or a concentrator of solar radiation
Implementation Method 2
photovoltaic cells of various types, most often silicon, are used to convert solar energy into electrical energy
Data Source
Figure 1a~1d
Figure 2~3
Figure 4~5
AI summary
The invention relates to a spatial structure (1) of a photovoltaic cell or a concentrator of solar radiation, which comprises a base body (2) consisting of at least two truncated pyramids or cones (20) and (21 ) arranged on each other, wherein the area of the bottom base (210) of the upper truncated pyramid or cone (21 ) is smaller than the area of the top base (201 ) of the lower the truncated pyramid or cone (20) and the inclination angle (a2o) of the lower truncated pyramid (20) and the inclination angle (a2i) of the upper truncated pyramid (21 ) is in the range of 60 to 85°, wherein at least one p concentration projection (4) in the shape of a pyramid or cone is arranged on the top base of at least one truncated pyramid or cone and the inclination angle (a3) of this concentration projection (3) is in the range from 20 to 55°.