Bifacial Photovoltaic Module Characterization via Spatial Mapping
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current techniques lack the ability to quantify the quality of photovoltaic materials in bifacial modules by accessing maps of charge carrier transport properties, which affects the performance difference between the two active faces.
Innovation Solution
A method for optical characterization of bifacial photovoltaic modules involving illumination with specific wavelengths, measurement of photocurrent, and generation of photocurrent maps to compare performances between faces, along with estimation of external quantum yield and short-circuit current maps to deduce material quality parameters.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If conventional characterization methods are used, then the bifaciality coefficient can be measured, but quantitative maps of charge carrier transport properties cannot be obtained
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the photovoltaic module into discrete surface elements that can be individually illuminated and measured. By dividing the module into multiple measurable units, the system can generate spatially resolved maps of charge carrier transport properties across different regions of the module, transforming a global measurement into localized quantitative data.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent transitions from conventional single-value bifaciality coefficient measurement to two-dimensional spatial mapping of transport properties. By introducing spatial coordinates (x,y) as additional dimensions, the system provides comprehensive quantitative maps that reveal local variations in material quality and charge carrier transport across the module surface.
2Measurement precision
If multiple excitation wavelengths are used, then spectral resolution is improved, but measurement time and complexity increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs periodic illumination with multiple excitation wavelengths in a systematic sequence. By cycling through different wavelengths and systematically measuring photocurrent responses, the system achieves spectral resolution while maintaining efficient measurement throughput through structured periodic data collection.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent maintains continuous measurement operation by systematically progressing through different wavelengths and surface elements without interruption. The automated scanning and data collection process ensures that useful measurement action continues throughout the characterization process, minimizing idle time and maximizing information gain per unit time.
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
Enables the quantification of photovoltaic material quality and performance differences between the front and rear faces, providing insights for improving the bifaciality coefficient and optimizing manufacturing processes.
Implementation Method 1
Illuminating a surface element with chosen coordinates in a plane parallel to the active faces, by producing a light beam comprising at least one excitation wavelength, and measuring a photocurrent generated by the illumination of this surface element
Data Source
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AI summary
The invention relates to an optical characterization of the performance of a bifacial photovoltaic module comprising a first and a second active face, each comprising a plurality of surface elements (ES1, ..., ESN). Specifically, for each active face of the module, the following is provided: - To illuminate a surface element with chosen coordinates (x, y) in a plane parallel to the active faces, by producing a beam of light comprising at least one excitation wavelength, and to measure a photocurrent generated by the illumination of this surface element; and - To move the module in translation along said plane, successively, to repeat the illumination of a plurality of successive surface elements and obtain the respective measurements of the photocurrents thus generated; - And to generate, in this way, a photocurrent map Cartophotocourant(λ,x,y) of each of the faces of the bifacial photovoltaic module, in order to compare the photovoltaic performance between each face.