Photoelectric Conversion Module Coupling via Reinforcing Member

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Solution Overview

Problem

The challenge lies in reliably coupling a connection member to a thin panel-shaped photoelectric conversion module, as the module is thinner than the connection member, making secure attachment and detachment difficult.

Innovation Solution

A photoelectric conversion device is designed with a first connection member that couples to the outer edge of the module, a reinforcing member that supports the joint, and a main body for power supply, where the connection member is thicker than the module but thinner than the reinforcing member, allowing reliable coupling and protection, especially when the module is rolled or folded.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Reliability

If a connection member is used to couple to a thin panel-shaped photoelectric conversion module, then electrical connection is achieved, but reliable mechanical coupling is difficult because the module is thinner than the connection member

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvecoupling reliabilityVSAvoidattachment difficulty

Core Design Contradiction:

ReliabilityVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

A reinforcing member is introduced as an intermediary component between the thin photoelectric conversion module and the connection member. The reinforcing member has a thickness greater than both the module and the connection member, providing a sufficient coupling surface for reliable mechanical attachment while protecting the thin module from direct stress during connection and detachment operations.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

Solution Approach 2:

The solution addresses the thickness limitation by utilizing the vertical dimension (thickness direction) to introduce a reinforcing member with greater thickness. This creates a multi-layer structure where the reinforcing member compensates for the insufficient thickness of the thin module, enabling reliable coupling without modifying the module's inherent thin design.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #17Another dimension (Dimensionality change)

2Length of moving object

If the photoelectric conversion module is made thin for portability, then device thickness is reduced, but mechanical strength and protection during coupling are insufficient

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvemodule thicknessVSAvoidmechanical strength

Core Design Contradiction:

Length of moving objectVSStrength

Solution Approach 1:

The system is segmented into three distinct functional layers: the thin photoelectric conversion module (for portability), the reinforcing member (for mechanical strength), and the connection member (for electrical connection). This segmentation allows each component to be optimized independently - the module remains thin while the reinforcing member provides the necessary mechanical strength.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The reinforcing member acts as a protective cushion placed beforehand between the thin module and external forces. During connection and detachment operations, the reinforcing member absorbs and distributes mechanical stress, preventing damage to the thin module before stress can reach critical levels.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #11Beforehand cushioning (Prior cushioning)

3Reliability

If a reinforcing member is added to support the joint, then coupling reliability is improved, but device complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvecoupling reliabilityVSAvoidstructure complexity

Core Design Contradiction:

ReliabilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The reinforcing member is designed to perform multiple functions simultaneously: it provides mechanical strength for reliable coupling, protects the thin module from damage, and serves as a structural support for the connection member. This multi-functionality reduces the need for additional separate components, thereby limiting the increase in device complexity.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

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 enables reliable coupling and protection of the thin panel-shaped photoelectric conversion module, even when rolled or folded, by dispersing stress and preventing damage during attachment and detachment.

Implementation Method 1

a photoelectric conversion module of solar cells

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectPhotovoltaic effect: Photovoltaic Effect

Data Source

PatentUS11362619B2Photoelectric conversion device

Publication Date: 2022.06.14 ZEON CORP

AI summary

Disclosed is a photoelectric conversion device that includes: a thin panel-shaped photoelectric conversion module; a first connection member that couples to an outer edge of the photoelectric conversion module at a joint so as to be electrically connected to the photoelectric conversion module; a reinforcing member that couples to a portion including the joint; and a main body that receives electric power supply from the photoelectric conversion module via the first connection member. The first connection member is mechanically and electrically attachable/detachable to/from the main body and has a thickness in vertical direction that is greater than a thickness in vertical direction of the photoelectric conversion module and less than or equal to a thickness in vertical direction of the reinforcing member at the joint.