Photovoltaic Cell Module Series Connection Design
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Organic thin film photovoltaic cells face low photoelectric conversion efficiency and short lifespan due to high resistivity of transparent electrodes, which increases connection spaces and reduces the opening ratio of photovoltaic cell modules, and existing methods like laser or mechanical scribing are ineffective for forming fine connection pathways.
Innovation Solution
A photovoltaic cell module design where multiple cell structures with alternating electromotive force polarities are connected in series using a common photoelectric conversion layer, with patterned transparent and opposite electrode layers to reduce inter-cell spacing and eliminate the need for scribing, allowing for a continuous photoelectric conversion layer and improved electrical connections.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If the photovoltaic cell area is reduced to 10 to 20 mm to improve photocurrent extraction efficiency, then the photoelectric conversion efficiency is improved, but the total area of spaces for electrical connection is increased, decreasing the opening ratio
Solution Approach 1:
The photovoltaic cell module is divided into multiple small photovoltaic cells (10 to 20 mm in area) connected in series. Each cell is electrically connected to adjacent cells through connection wirings that extend from transparent electrodes, creating a segmented structure that maintains high photoelectric conversion efficiency while managing connection spaces systematically
Solution Approach 2:
Connection wirings extend not only in the plane but also in the thickness direction of the module. The wirings pass through the photoelectric conversion layer and connect transparent electrodes of adjacent cells, utilizing the third dimension to reduce the footprint of connection spaces and improve the opening ratio
2Area of stationary object
If laser scribing is used to form connection pathways, then connection spaces are reduced, but the organic semiconductor layer cannot be satisfactorily removed due to low laser light to heat conversion efficiency
Solution Approach 1:
Instead of attempting to remove the organic semiconductor layer through laser scribing, the invention extracts the connection pathway formation from the removal process. Connection wirings are designed to extend through the photoelectric conversion layer without requiring complete removal of the organic material, eliminating the need for ineffective laser scribing
Solution Approach 2:
The connection wirings serve as an intermediary element that bridges adjacent photovoltaic cells. Rather than creating pathways by removing material, the wirings extend through the existing photoelectric conversion layer, providing electrical connection without requiring material removal or scribing processes
3Area of stationary object
If mechanical scribing is used to form connection pathways, then connection spaces are reduced, but fine connection wiring pathways cannot be formed due to high elasticity of the organic semiconductor layer
Solution Approach 1:
The invention extracts connection pathway formation from the mechanical scribing process entirely. Instead of attempting to scrape or cut the elastic organic semiconductor layer, connection wirings are designed to extend through the photoelectric conversion layer, eliminating the need for mechanical removal and achieving fine precision without scribing
Solution Approach 2:
Connection wirings act as intermediary elements that provide precise electrical connection between cells without requiring mechanical intervention. The wirings extend through the photoelectric conversion layer and connect transparent electrodes, achieving fine precision connection pathways without the need for mechanical scribing or material removal
4Area of stationary object
If string-shaped cutting scraps are generated during scribing, then connection pathways are formed, but the scraps cannot be completely removed, reducing module reliability
Solution Approach 1:
The invention extracts the connection pathway formation from the scribing and material removal process. Connection wirings are designed to extend through the photoelectric conversion layer without requiring cutting or removal of the organic semiconductor layer, completely eliminating the generation of string-shaped cutting scraps and associated reliability issues
Solution Approach 2:
Connection wirings serve as intermediary elements that provide electrical connection without causing material damage. By extending through the photoelectric conversion layer and connecting transparent electrodes without scribing, the wirings eliminate the generation of cutting scraps that would otherwise compromise module reliability
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 power generation per unit area, simplifies production, reduces production costs, and stabilizes the photoelectric conversion layer, leading to improved durability and performance of photovoltaic cell modules.
Implementation Method 1
An organic thin film photovoltaic cell is a photovoltaic cell prepared by using an organic thin film semiconductor
Data Source
AI summary
In accordance with one embodiment, there is provided a photovoltaic cell module including a plurality of photovoltaic cell structures including a hole transport layer and an electron transport layer which are disposed on a common photoelectric conversion layer so that electromotive force polarities are alternately different, wherein the photovoltaic cell structures are electrically connected in series.