Improvements to light-collecting elements
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Solution Overview
Problem
The existing assembly methods for photovoltaic solar modules, which use metal frames for mechanical rigidity and integration, result in reduced active surface area for energy conversion due to masked overlap zones and hinder convection cooling, leading to increased module temperature and decreased efficiency.
Innovation Solution
The proposed solution involves a polygonal solar module design with vertically oriented sections and a locking mechanism that includes a keyhole system, allowing for efficient assembly and alignment with a supporting structure while maximizing the active surface area and facilitating convection cooling by reducing the metal frame's obstructive impact.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Strength
If modules are assembled using metal frames with U-shaped profiles, then mechanical rigidity and structural stability are improved, but the active surface area is reduced due to masked overlap zones
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts and removes the traditional U-shaped metal frame from the module assembly. Instead, it uses a flat mounting structure that attaches to the back of the module, eliminating the frame's overlap zones that were masking the active surface and reducing power output.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent segments the structural support function from the frame and relocates it to a separate mounting system attached to the module's back surface. This allows the active surface to remain fully exposed while mechanical rigidity is maintained through the distributed mounting points.
2Stability of the object's composition
If modules are assembled edge to edge using metal frames, then structural integration is improved, but convection cooling is hindered leading to increased module temperature
Solution Approach 1:
The patent removes the vertical metal frame components that were blocking convection air currents. By eliminating these obstructive elements, natural convection cooling can occur freely along the module edges, reducing operating temperature and improving efficiency.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent transitions from a three-dimensional frame structure to a two-dimensional flat mounting system. This dimensional reduction eliminates the vertical obstructions that blocked convection currents while maintaining structural integration through the planar mounting surface.
3Strength
If traditional metal frames are used for module assembly, then mechanical support is provided, but the surface-to-area ratio is reduced and energy conversion efficiency decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts the frame structure entirely, replacing it with a flat mounting system that attaches to the module's back. This eliminates the frame's intrusion into the active surface, maximizing the surface-to-area ratio and thereby improving energy conversion efficiency while maintaining mechanical support.
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 design enhances the surface-to-area ratio of the solar module, improving energy conversion efficiency by minimizing the obstruction of the metal frame and promoting better air convection for cooling, thus addressing the limitations of prior art in module assembly and temperature management.
Implementation Method 1
elements capable of collecting light of the photovoltaic solar cell type comprise an absorbent agent, and two electrodes electrically on either side
Implementation Method 2
the temperature of the modules increases due to heating by the sun, the vertical parts of the superstructure being detrimental to the establishment of a convection air current necessary for cooling
Data Source
Figure 1a~4
Figure 1b~7
Figure 2~3
AI summary
The invention relates to an element capable of collecting light, including a first substrate having a glass function and forming a cover, and a second substrate forming a support, the substrates sandwiching between two electrode-forming conductive layers at least one functional layer based on an absorber material for converting light energy into electrical energy, the second substrate provided on its lower face with a plurality of profiles oriented parallel to one of the sides of the element.