Flexible Connection Device for Organic Photovoltaic Modules
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing connection devices are poorly suited for thin and flexible organic photovoltaic modules, often requiring routing of connection lines outside the module, leading to damage risks and aesthetic disturbances, while failing to protect against moisture and water.
Innovation Solution
A compact connection device with half-shells and sealing elements that enclose the connection point, ensuring a watertight and secure electrical connection, using ring-shaped seals and snap-in locking elements to protect the photovoltaic layer and prevent moisture ingress.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If connection lines are routed outside the module to make contact, then connection is achieved, but the risk of damage to connection lines and foils increases
Solution Approach 1:
The connection device is divided into two separate half-shells that can be opened for connection and closed for protection. This segmentation allows the connection point to be accessible during installation while being protected during operation, resolving the contradiction between connection accessibility and damage risk.
Solution Approach 2:
The connection point and conductor connection unit are enclosed within the half-shell structure, nesting the vulnerable connection elements inside a protective housing. This allows the connection to be made while simultaneously protecting it from damage risks.
2Reliability
If connection devices are installed on visible places, then electrical connection is achieved, but the appearance becomes aesthetically disturbing
Solution Approach 1:
The half-shells are designed to be thin and flexible, matching the profile of the photovoltaic module. This allows the connection device to be functional while minimizing its visual impact and maintaining the aesthetic appearance of the module surface.
Solution Approach 2:
The connection device is integrated directly onto the photovoltaic module surface, merging the functional connection element with the module structure itself. This integration reduces the visual prominence of separate connection components.
3Reliability
If connection devices are used on thin and flexible modules, then electrical connection is achieved, but the flexibility of the module is restricted
Solution Approach 1:
The half-shell structure is designed to be flexible and adaptable to the curvature of the photovoltaic module. The locking elements can engage while allowing the overall structure to maintain its flexibility, resolving the contradiction between connection stability and module flexibility.
4Ease of operation
If connection points are exposed, then connection is achieved, but moisture and water can penetrate and damage the photovoltaic layer
Solution Approach 1:
The half-shells are designed to be closed and sealed before the module is installed in its final position. This preliminary closing action protects the connection point from moisture penetration while maintaining connection accessibility during the installation process.
Solution Approach 2:
The sealed half-shell structure acts as an intermediary barrier between the connection point and the external environment. This intermediate protective layer prevents moisture and water from reaching the vulnerable connection elements and photovoltaic layer.
Data Source
Figure 1a
Figure 1b
Figure 2a~2b
AI summary
The invention relates to a connection device (1) for electrically connecting a planar electrical module (9) having a carrier film (3) with a photovoltaic layer (2) to a connection cable (5), with a first half-shell (11) with a first retaining part (115) which can be coupled to the at least one first locking element (111) in order to connect the first and second half-shell (11; 12) together, and with at least one sealing device by means of which the connection point between the mutually facing retaining parts (115, 125) can be tightly sealed.