Overlapping Photovoltaic Modules With Transparent Perimeter Edges
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Solution Overview
Problem
Building integrated photovoltaic modules with transparent perimeters aim to enhance energy density, but existing solutions lack effective methods to optimize solar light transmission and module overlap for improved power density.
Innovation Solution
The design incorporates transparent perimeters with a specific configuration of encapsulants, frontsheets, backsheets, and adhesives, allowing for overlapping photovoltaic modules while maintaining solar light transmission, using transparent and non-transparent sections to optimize energy harvesting.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Stability of the object's composition
If photovoltaic modules are installed with overlapping configuration to improve structural integration, then mechanical stability and building integration are improved, but solar light transmission and energy density are reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The backsheet is segmented into transparent and non-transparent sections, allowing different functional zones within a single component. The transparent sections permit light transmission through overlapping modules while non-transparent sections provide structural integrity and electrical isolation where needed.
Solution Approach 2:
Different regions of the backsheet have different optical properties - transparent in areas requiring light transmission and non-transparent in areas requiring structural support or electrical isolation. This local differentiation resolves the contradiction by optimizing each zone for its specific function.
2Use of energy by moving object
If transparent perimeter edges are implemented to improve light transmission, then energy density is improved, but manufacturing complexity and material requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The backsheet uses composite construction with both transparent and non-transparent sections integrated into a single component. This allows the module to achieve high energy density through light transmission while maintaining structural integrity, and the integrated design reduces manufacturing complexity compared to assembling separate transparent and opaque components.
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 enhances energy density by ensuring efficient solar light transmission and mechanical coupling between modules, increasing power density through optimized overlap and light transmission paths.
Implementation Method 1
the encapsulant is transparent; a frontsheet juxtaposed with the first surface of the encapsulant, wherein the frontsheet is transparent; and a backsheet juxtaposed with the second surface of the encapsulant, wherein the backsheet includes a first section, and a second section juxtaposed with the first section, wherein the first section is transparent
Data Source
AI summary
A system includes a plurality of photovoltaic modules, each having at least one solar cell, an encapsulant encapsulating the solar cell, a frontsheet, and a backsheet. The encapsulant and the frontsheet are transparent. The backsheet includes a first section and a second section juxtaposed with the first section. The first section is transparent and the second section is non-transparent. A first end of the frontsheet, a first end of the encapsulant, and the first section of the backsheet form a transparent portion. A first photovoltaic module overlays at least a portion of a second photovoltaic module. The transparent portion of the first photovoltaic module overlays at least a portion of the at least one solar cell of the second photovoltaic module.