Graphic Layers for Solar Modules Aesthetic Energy Trade-off
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Solution Overview
Problem
Traditional solar panels have a limited and unattractive visual appearance, which hinders their widespread adoption and aesthetic appeal, and existing methods to alter their appearance are costly, non-scalable, and limited in color and visual effect.
Innovation Solution
The integration of graphic layers with opaque and transparent regions into solar modules, allowing for customizable images and patterns that can be positioned in front of the photovoltaic layer, enhancing the aesthetic appeal while maintaining energy efficiency.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Use of energy by moving object
If traditional dark or black colors are used for solar panels, then energy conversion efficiency is improved, but visual appearance and aesthetic appeal deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The graphic layer is segmented into multiple transparent layers with isolated opaque regions arranged in specific patterns. This segmentation allows different regions to have different optical properties, enabling both light transmission for energy conversion and visual design elements for aesthetic appeal.
Solution Approach 2:
Different regions of the graphic layer have different opacity characteristics - isolated opaque regions provide visual contrast and design elements, while transparent regions allow light transmission. This local variation in quality enables simultaneous achievement of aesthetic appearance and energy efficiency.
2Shape
If graphic layers are added to alter visual appearance, then aesthetic appeal is improved, but manufacturing complexity and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The graphic layer is integrated into the existing solar panel structure by positioning it between the front surface and photovoltaic layer. This merging approach allows the graphic layer to become part of the overall assembly without requiring separate manufacturing processes or additional complex components.
Solution Approach 2:
The graphic layer is implemented as a thin film structure with multiple transparent layers and isolated opaque regions. This thin film approach simplifies manufacturing compared to traditional methods, allows for flexible design customization, and enables integration into existing solar panel production lines.
3Adaptability or versatility
If opaque regions are added to create images and patterns, then visual customization is improved, but light transmission and energy efficiency deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The graphic layer uses isolated opaque regions rather than complete opacity, and the opaque regions are strategically positioned and sized to provide visual customization while minimizing impact on overall light transmission. This partial action approach allows visual design without excessive blocking of light.
Solution Approach 2:
The transparency level of the graphic layer can be adjusted by modifying parameters such as the size, density, and distribution of isolated opaque regions. This allows optimization of the balance between visual customization and light transmission based on specific application requirements.
Data Source
AI summary
In some aspects, graphic layers for depicting a visible representation of an image along a surface of a photovoltaic module can include a plurality of substantially opaque isolated regions; and at least one substantially transparent contiguous region surrounding the substantially opaque isolated regions, wherein an outer surface of the at least one substantially transparent contiguous region comprises a matte surface finish.