Expandable Photovoltaic Submodules With Modular Adapters
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing photovoltaic modules are rigid and heavy, making them difficult to transport and store, and if individual solar cells are damaged, the entire module becomes non-functional, while current miniaturized submodules with external connections are hard to dismantle and reconfigure.
Innovation Solution
An expandable photovoltaic submodule system using adapters with integrated potential lines that allow for flexible series and parallel connections of solar cells, enabling modular assembly and reconfiguration to achieve desired output voltage and power.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of manufacture
If photovoltaic modules use fixed ribbons/wires for series/parallel connections, then manufacturing is simplified, but the entire module becomes non-functional if individual solar cells are damaged
Solution Approach 1:
The photovoltaic module is divided into independent solar cell units, each with its own adapter for electrical connections. This segmentation allows individual cells to be replaced without affecting the entire module, resolving the reliability issue while maintaining manufacturing simplicity through standardized adapter components.
2Weight of moving object
If photovoltaic modules are made miniaturized with external electrical interconnections, then weight and area are reduced for transportability, but the connections become complex and difficult to dismantle
Solution Approach 1:
An adapter serves as an intermediary component between solar cells, providing external electrical interconnection points. This mediator simplifies the overall connection structure by consolidating wiring into a single removable component, making the system both lightweight and easy to assemble/disassemble.
3Stability of the object's composition
If photovoltaic modules use traditional fixed connections, then structural stability is maintained, but the modules cannot be easily reconfigured or stowed
Solution Approach 1:
The connection system transitions from static fixed ribbons to dynamic removable adapters. The adapters can be attached and detached, allowing the module configuration to change based on needs while maintaining structural stability when connected. This enables easy storage and reconfiguration.
Data Source
AI summary
An expandable photovoltaic submodule comprises an adapter. The adapter comprises: an upper level port, wherein the upper level port comprises a front-positive terminal, a front-negative terminal, a first rear-positive terminal, and a first rear-negative terminal; a lower level port, wherein the lower level port comprises a second rear-positive terminal and a second rear-negative terminal; a first solar cell port, wherein the first solar cell port comprises a cell positive terminal and a cell negative terminal; and a plurality of potential lines coupled to the upper level port, the lower level port, and the first solar cell port, wherein the plurality of potential lines are adapted to series or parallel connections of at least two levels.