Belt-Like Solar Cell Module With Inclined Surfaces
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Solution Overview
Problem
Organic thin-film solar cells have lower power conversion efficiency and shorter lifespan compared to inorganic solar cells due to difficulties in controlling semiconductor material purity, molecular weight distribution, and orientation, which affect their performance.
Innovation Solution
A solar cell module design featuring a belt-like solar cell device with inclined light-receptive surfaces and a support structure that includes V-shaped grooves and contact electrodes, enhancing light absorption and reflection, and using a meniscus coating method for layer deposition to improve efficiency and reduce manufacturing costs.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of manufacture
If organic thin-film solar cells are used instead of inorganic solar cells, then manufacturing cost and production simplicity are improved, but power conversion efficiency and lifespan deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies parameter changes by optimizing the inclination angle of the light-receptive surface (set at 45 degrees) and the spacing between adjacent solar cell devices (0.5-2 mm). These parameter optimizations enhance light absorption and reflection characteristics, thereby improving power conversion efficiency while maintaining the simplicity of organic thin-film manufacturing processes
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces a spatial dimension by arranging solar cell devices in an inclined configuration rather than flat placement. The V-shaped groove structure creates three-dimensional light paths with multiple reflections, increasing the effective optical path length and improving energy conversion efficiency without complicating the manufacturing process
2Ease of manufacture
If organic thin-film solar cells are used instead of inorganic solar cells, then manufacturing cost and production simplicity are improved, but lifespan deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs beforehand cushioning by implementing a support structure with V-shaped grooves that provide mechanical stability and precise positioning to the organic thin-film solar cell devices. This structural support compensates for the inherent fragility of organic materials, enhancing durability and extending operational lifespan while maintaining manufacturing simplicity
3Reliability
If light-receptive surfaces are arranged in inclined configuration, then light absorption and reflection are improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies segmentation by dividing the solar cell array into discrete units spaced 0.5-2 mm apart, with each unit having an independently optimized 45-degree inclination. This modular segmentation allows for simplified manufacturing and assembly while achieving enhanced light absorption through multiple reflections between adjacent inclined surfaces
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
The design increases power conversion efficiency by optimizing light absorption and reflection, reducing the impact of semiconductor material limitations, and simplifying the manufacturing process, resulting in a more efficient and cost-effective organic thin-film solar cell module.
Implementation Method 1
a solar cell device and a support structure supporting the solar cell device. The solar cell device is a belt-like solar cell device including first portions arranged in one direction such that major surfaces thereof face each other, and a second portion interposed between the first portions
Implementation Method 2
Two adjacent first portions incline forwardly and backwardly with respect to the one direction
Data Source
AI summary
A solar cell module according to an embodiment includes a solar cell device and a support structure supporting the solar cell device. The solar cell device is a belt-like solar cell device including first portions arranged in one direction such that major surfaces thereof face each other, and a second portion interposed between the first portions. The edges of the first portions that correspond to a pair of long sides of the solar cell device are parallel to each other. Two adjacent first portions incline forwardly and backwardly with respect to the one direction. The second portion includes one or more planar or curved surfaces to connect the two adjacent first portions to each other.