CPV Receiver Optical Light Guide Mounting
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current CPV modules face issues with optical adhesive delamination, light loss due to interface reflection and internal absorption, and adhesive creep, which reduce the efficiency of electrical energy generation.
Innovation Solution
A CPV module design incorporating a mounting device or holder to maintain the optical light guide in a prescribed position relative to the solar cell, using a conical holder member to prevent adhesive migration and interference, and wire configuration to minimize light loss.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Strength
If optical adhesive is used to attach the prism to the receiver die, then the optical light guide can be attached to the solar cell, but the adhesive may delaminate during transport or use, causing light loss and reducing generation efficiency
Solution Approach 1:
The patent removes the optical adhesive from the attachment process entirely. Instead of using adhesive to bond the prism to the receiver die, the invention uses a mechanical mounting structure where the holder physically secures the optical light guide in position through friction and geometric constraints, eliminating the adhesive layer that causes delamination and light loss
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces a holder as an intermediary component between the optical light guide and the receiver die. This holder serves as a mechanical mediator that positions and secures the optical light guide without requiring optical adhesive, thereby preventing adhesive-related failures while maintaining proper optical alignment
2Ease of operation
If optical adhesive is used to attach the prism, then the optical light guide can be positioned, but light loss occurs through interface reflection and internal absorption in the adhesive
Solution Approach 1:
The patent eliminates the optical adhesive layer that causes interface reflection and internal absorption losses. By using direct mechanical positioning through the holder, the optical path is cleared of adhesive materials that would otherwise reflect or absorb light, improving optical efficiency while maintaining positioning capability through geometric constraints and friction
Solution Approach 2:
The patent employs a thin film adhesive layer solely for electrical connection purposes, separating this function from optical attachment. This allows the optical interface to be adhesive-free, eliminating optical losses, while still providing necessary electrical connectivity through the minimal adhesive layer or alternative electrical connection methods
3Strength
If optical adhesive is used to attach the prism, then the optical light guide can be secured, but adhesive creep on the sides of the prism causes light coupling loss
Solution Approach 1:
The patent removes optical adhesive from the sides of the optical light guide entirely. The holder design mechanically secures the optical light guide through side walls that contact and constrain it laterally, eliminating the need for adhesive on the sides where light coupling occurs, thereby preventing adhesive creep and associated light losses
Solution Approach 2:
The holder acts as an intermediary that provides lateral constraint to the optical light guide through its side walls. This mechanical mediation replaces adhesive-based lateral securing, preventing adhesive creep while maintaining proper positioning and light coupling through direct geometric constraints
4Reliability
If a mounting device is added to hold the optical light guide, then alignment and stability are improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the mounting function with the existing module structure by integrating the holder as part of the overall assembly. The holder is positioned within the existing module architecture, combining structural support, alignment, and securing functions into a unified design that adds minimal complexity while maximizing stability
Solution Approach 2:
The holder serves multiple functions simultaneously: it provides mechanical support for the optical light guide, ensures proper alignment through its geometric configuration, secures the component during operation, and facilitates thermal management. This multi-functionality reduces the need for separate components, minimizing added complexity
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 enhances the alignment and stability of the optical light guide, reducing light interference and improving electrical energy generation efficiency while simplifying the manufacturing process.
Implementation Method 1
a polished glass prism which is operatively connected to the solar cell or receiver die, and is used to guide the focused solar rays to the front surface of the receiver die
Implementation Method 2
a polished glass prism which is operatively connected to the solar cell or receiver die, and is used to guide the focused solar rays to the front surface of the receiver die
Implementation Method 3
Photovoltaic cells are a well known means for producing electrical current from electromagnetic radiation
Data Source
AI summary
In accordance with the present invention, there is provided multiple embodiments of a concentrated photovoltaic (CPV) module or package. In each embodiment of the present invention, the CPV module includes a mounting device or holder for use in maintaining an optical member or optical light guide of the module in a prescribed position relative to the solar cell or receiver die thereof.