Conductive Interconnector for Back-Contact Solar Cell Shingling
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Solution Overview
Problem
The formation of shingled modules using back-contacting solar cells is complicated due to the arrangement of all electrodes at the shadow face, making it challenging to connect them efficiently.
Innovation Solution
An electrically conducting interconnector with an electrically conductive layer, insulating layer, and electric connectors is used to connect the back-contacting solar cells in series, simplifying the process and enhancing the structural integrity of the assembly.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of manufacture
If back-contacting solar cells are used with all electrodes at the shadow face, then light shielding is reduced and appearance is improved, but the process of forming shingled modules becomes complicated
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces an interconnector as an intermediary component that simplifies the connection process. The interconnector includes conductive elements that extend from the shadow face through the solar cell to the front face, providing a standardized interface for connecting multiple solar cells in series without complex direct electrode-to-electrode connections at the shadow face
Solution Approach 2:
The patent transitions from two-dimensional electrode connections at the shadow face to a three-dimensional connection structure. The interconnector extends vertically through the solar cell thickness, allowing connections to be made at the front face which is more accessible and simpler to work with, effectively moving the connection operation to another dimension
2Reliability
If electric connectors are made taller to better connect electrodes, then connection reliability improves, but the width of connectors must also increase which affects assembly density
Solution Approach 1:
The patent optimizes the geometric parameters of the electric connectors, specifically the height-to-width ratio. By making connectors taller relative to their width, the patent achieves better electrode connection reliability while minimizing the horizontal footprint. This parameter optimization allows for higher assembly density while maintaining connection quality
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 enables a simpler and more reliable process for forming shingled modules, increasing power output, reducing assembly losses, and improving conversion efficiency while avoiding short circuits and enhancing mechanical strength.
Implementation Method 1
an electrically conductive layer, and an insulating layer and electric connectors that are located on one side of the electrically conductive layer; the electrically conductive layer is provided with an electrically conducting circuit
Implementation Method 2
the insulating layer is provided with openings, and the electric connectors are located in the openings of the insulating layer; the first electrode and the second electrode are further electrically isolated by the insulating layer not provided with an opening
Data Source
AI summary
A conductive interconnection member includes: a conductive layer (1), and an insulating layer (4) and electrical connectors (2) located on one side of the conductive layer (1). The conductive layer (1) is provided with a conductive circuit; the insulating layer (4) is provided with openings (41), and the electrical connectors (2) are located in the openings (41) of the insulating layer (4); the electrical connectors (2) include a first electrical connector (21) and a second electrical connector (22); the first electrical connector (21) is used to be electrically connected to a first electrode (31) of a back contact solar cell (3) and the conductive circuit; the second electrical connector (22) is used to be electrically connected to a second electrode (32) of a back contact solar cell (3) and the conductive circuit; and the polarities of the first electrode (31) and the second electrode (32) are opposite.