Flexible Photovoltaic Modules with Keder Mounting
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Solution Overview
Problem
The high installation costs of flexible thin-film photovoltaic apparatuses hinder their competitiveness with fossil fuels, despite their advantages in weight reduction over crystalline silicon counterparts.
Innovation Solution
The arrangement of flexible photovoltaic modules with a front sheet, back sheet, and photovoltaic devices, including a keder system for mounting and a textile integration for enhanced installation efficiency and cost reduction.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Weight of moving object
If flexible thin-film photovoltaic apparatuses are used, then weight is reduced compared to crystalline silicon, but installation costs remain high
Solution Approach 1:
The photovoltaic system is divided into modular flexible photovoltaic modules that can be independently handled and installed. Each module contains segmented components (front sheet, back sheet, photovoltaic device, keder) that can be separately manufactured and assembled, reducing overall installation complexity and cost while maintaining the weight advantage of thin-film technology
Solution Approach 2:
The modules are pre-assembled with integrated mounting features (keder systems) and connection elements (belts through holes, sewn textiles) during manufacturing. This preliminary preparation of mounting structures eliminates the need for complex on-site installation procedures, reducing installation costs while preserving the lightweight flexible nature of the photovoltaic apparatus
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
This configuration reduces installation costs and enhances the speed and durability of photovoltaic module deployment, making flexible thin-film photovoltaics more competitive with fossil fuels.
Implementation Method 1
Each photovoltaic device includes an array of photovoltaic cells
Data Source
AI summary
A photovoltaic apparatus is provided including a first photovoltaic module and a second photovoltaic module. Each photovoltaic module includes a front sheet having an outer portion and an inner portion. The outer portion is disposed around a core to form a keder. Each photovoltaic module further includes a back sheet and a photovoltaic device disposed between the front sheet and the back sheet. Each photovoltaic device includes an array of photovoltaic cells.