Concentrating solar cell module
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Solution Overview
Problem
Concentrating solar cell modules face challenges with reduced photoelectric conversion efficiency due to light entering the support and complex material selection, as well as high temperatures leading to decreased output, necessitating improved heat dissipation and efficiency.
Innovation Solution
A method involving a base portion with plated mounting regions and a support composed of thermosetting resin, where the condensing lens is molded with transparent thermosetting silicone resin, and the support is joined to the base portion after solar cell mounting, enhancing heat dissipation and design freedom, and using a reflective support to improve efficiency.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Device complexity
If a resin structure for concentration is used to reduce size and cost, then the size and cost are reduced, but light enters the support which reduces photoelectric conversion efficiency
Solution Approach 1:
The invention extracts the harmful function of the support (light transmission) by applying a reflective coating to the inner wall surface. This converts the support from a light-transmitting component into a light-reflecting component, preventing light from entering the support while maintaining the concentrating function.
Solution Approach 2:
The invention changes the optical parameter of the support by applying a reflective coating, transforming it from a transparent or translucent state to a reflective state. This parameter change prevents light transmission into the support while preserving the structural function.
2Use of energy by moving object
If concentration structures with different refractive indexes are used, then concentration function is achieved, but material selection and structure become complicated
Solution Approach 1:
The invention replaces the complex multi-material concentration structure with a simpler single-material support structure that uses reflective coating instead of refractive index differences. This substitutes the optical mechanism from refraction-based to reflection-based, simplifying material selection.
Solution Approach 2:
The invention uses a composite structure combining the support material with a reflective coating layer. This composite approach achieves the concentration function through the coating's reflective properties rather than requiring the support material itself to have specific refractive index characteristics.
3Use of energy by moving object
If solar cells are arranged over the entire sunlight-receiving surface, then sunlight coverage is maximized, but cost increases significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The invention merges the functions of multiple solar cells into a single high-concentration solar cell by using the condensing lens to concentrate sunlight from a large area onto one small cell. This combining approach maintains energy coverage while reducing the number of cells required.
Solution Approach 2:
The invention uses the condensing lens to create a three-dimensional light concentration path, focusing sunlight from a large two-dimensional area onto a small one-dimensional target (the solar cell). This dimensional transformation allows area reduction while maintaining energy capture.
4Device complexity
If sunlight is concentrated several hundred times, then the number of solar cells is reduced, but the temperature of solar cells reaches 80°C or higher which decreases output
Solution Approach 1:
The invention introduces the support with reflective coating as an intermediary structure between the condensing lens and the solar cell. This intermediary reflects stray light away from the cell while the lens continues to concentrate main sunlight, helping to reduce thermal load.
Solution Approach 2:
The invention converts the harmful effect of concentrated light (excessive heat generation) into a beneficial outcome by using the reflective coating to redirect excess light energy away from the solar cell, preventing overheating while maintaining efficient energy conversion.
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 solution results in a concentrating solar cell module with improved photoelectric conversion efficiency, heat resistance, and durability, while reducing costs and simplifying production, with enhanced heat dissipation properties and reduced wire influence on the optical design.
Implementation Method 1
a condensing lens 4 molded above the mounting regions 5 so as to encapsulate the solar cells 3
Implementation Method 2
a surface of the mounting regions 5 of the base portion 1 is plated
Implementation Method 3
a support 2 composed of a thermosetting resin, the support 2 surrounding each of the mounting regions 5 of the base portion 1
Data Source
AI summary
A concentrating solar cell module including; a base portion having a plurality of mounting regions for mounting solar cells and a plurality of lead electrodes for electrically connecting the solar cells with external electrodes; a support composed of a thermosetting resin, the support surrounding each of the mounting regions of the base portion; the solar cells mounted on the mounting regions; and a condensing lens molded above the mounting regions so as to encapsulate the solar cells, wherein a surface of the mounting regions of the base portion is plated, the condensing lens is molded with a transparent thermosetting silicone resin, and the support is joined to a surface of the base portion, the surface to which the support is joined is on the same side of the base portion as the surface on which the solar cells are mounted.