Photovoltaic Module With Multi-Orientation Cells And Active Cooling
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional photovoltaic modules face limitations in load resistance, integration, reliability, and efficiency due to excessive flexibility and lack of integrated fixing means, especially when used in large-scale applications or exposed to high temperatures, which affect their long-term performance and certification.
Innovation Solution
A flexible photovoltaic module design with multiple groups of photovoltaic cells arranged in different orientations and an active cooling system, integrated within a support structure that allows for efficient heat dissipation using a closed cooling circuit, enhancing mechanical stability and electrical efficiency.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If photovoltaic cells are arranged in a single orientation to simplify module design, then manufacturing complexity is reduced, but energy capture efficiency decreases due to inability to receive light from multiple directions
Solution Approach 1:
The photovoltaic module is divided into multiple groups of photovoltaic cells, where each group is oriented in a specific direction. This segmentation allows different cell groups to capture light from different angles (front, rear, sides), thereby increasing overall energy capture efficiency while maintaining manageable complexity through modular organization
Solution Approach 2:
The patent transitions from traditional single-orientation (one-dimensional light capture) to multi-orientation (three-dimensional light capture) by arranging photovoltaic cells on front, rear, and lateral surfaces. This dimensional expansion enables the module to receive sunlight from multiple directions throughout the day, significantly improving productivity
2Adaptability or versatility
If photovoltaic modules are made flexible for various applications, then adaptability increases, but load resistance and structural stability deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The module employs different structural characteristics in different regions: flexible polymer layers in areas requiring conformability and rigid support structures in areas requiring load resistance. This local differentiation allows the module to be flexible enough for various applications while maintaining sufficient structural integrity
Solution Approach 2:
The photovoltaic module uses composite construction combining flexible polymer materials (for adaptability) with rigid support frames and structured cell arrangements (for load resistance). This composite approach enables the module to achieve both flexibility for diverse applications and sufficient strength for reliable operation
3Power
If photovoltaic modules operate at high temperatures to maximize energy conversion, then power output increases, but reliability and cell lifespan decrease due to thermal stress
Solution Approach 1:
The patent converts the harmful effect of heat (which reduces cell lifespan) into a beneficial cooling mechanism by circulating water through channels positioned behind the photovoltaic cells. The water absorbs excess heat from the cells, converting thermal stress into useful cooling that maintains cell reliability while allowing continuous operation at optimal temperatures
Solution Approach 2:
Water acts as an intermediary substance between the hot photovoltaic cells and the external environment. It absorbs heat from the cells through thermal conduction and carries it away through circulation, serving as a thermal mediator that protects the cells from excessive temperature while enabling sustained power generation
4Ease of manufacture
If conventional photovoltaic modules are used without integrated fixing means to simplify manufacturing, then ease of manufacture increases, but installation reliability and integration quality worsen
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the photovoltaic cell arrangement with integrated fixing structures, where the support framework serves dual purposes: mechanical support for the cells and attachment means for mounting the module. This integration eliminates the need for separate fixing components, maintaining manufacturing simplicity while ensuring reliable installation
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
The solution enables the production of electrical energy in multiple directions, improves load resistance and integration, enhances reliability by uniform cooling, and maintains efficiency by reducing thermal stress on photovoltaic cells, thus promoting undisturbed operation and extending the lifespan of the modules.
Implementation Method 1
photovoltaic cells arranged with different orientations to capture light fluxes originating from different directions
Implementation Method 2
active cooling system, integrated within a support structure that allows for efficient heat dissipation
Implementation Method 3
closed cooling circuit, enhancing mechanical stability and electrical efficiency
Data Source
Figure 1~2
Figure 3~4
Figure 5A~6
AI summary
The main object of the invention is a photovoltaic module comprising: a first transparent layer forming the front face; a plurality of photovoltaic cells arranged in at least two separate, electrically unconnected groups; an encapsulating assembly for the plurality of photovoltaic cells; and a second layer forming the rear face, with the encapsulating assembly and the plurality of photovoltaic cells situated between the first and second layers. These at least two groups are arranged in at least two different orientations to receive light from different directions.