Photovoltaic panel
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Solution Overview
Problem
The high costs and complexities associated with the logistics, shipping, and installation of conventional photovoltaic (PV) modules, particularly due to their large and heavy frames, lead to expensive and time-consuming processes, necessitating a more efficient and cost-effective mounting solution for PV systems.
Innovation Solution
The development of folding PV panels with interconnected subpanels via flexible regions, such as hinges, allows for easy interconnection and mounting without additional hardware, enabling a frameless installation system that reduces shipping costs and simplifies handling and installation by allowing panels to be stacked and mounted using integrated flashing and fastener systems.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Strength
If conventional PV modules with large and heavy frames are used, then structural strength and stability are improved, but shipping costs and installation complexity increase
Solution Approach 1:
The PV module is divided into multiple PV cells that are electrically interconnected but physically separate, allowing them to be handled and installed individually or in smaller groups rather than as one large rigid unit. This segmentation reduces the weight and size of individual components while maintaining the overall structural integrity through flexible interconnections.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces flexible regions between rigid PV cell sections, allowing the structure to adapt and flex rather than requiring rigid fixed connections. This dynamic approach eliminates the need for heavy framing while maintaining structural stability, as the flexible regions accommodate movement and stress without compromising the overall module integrity.
2Stability of the object's composition
If conventional PV modules with heavy frames are used, then structural stability is improved, but shipping and handling costs increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces heavy rigid frames with flexible interconnection regions that can be thin and lightweight. These flexible regions provide the necessary structural stability and electrical connectivity without the weight and material cost of conventional framing, directly reducing shipping quantities and costs.
3Reliability
If conventional PV modules are used, then electrical functionality is achieved, but installation time and labor costs increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines electrical interconnection and mechanical support functions into the flexible regions themselves, eliminating the need for separate wiring and framing operations during installation. This merging of functions reduces the number of installation steps and labor required while maintaining reliable electrical 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 solution provides a cost-effective, aesthetically pleasing, and efficient method for mounting PV panels, reducing installation time and costs while maintaining high performance, as the panels can be easily transported and installed with minimal training, resulting in a sleek and functional PV system.
Implementation Method 1
Photovoltaic (PV) cells, commonly known as solar cells, are well known devices for converting solar radiation into electrical energy
Data Source
AI summary
Modular photovoltaic (PV) panel, system, and method of mounting. The system including a mounting flashing configured to mounted to a mounting surface and a folding PV panel. The folding PV panel including: a first subpanel including first PV cells, wherein the first subpanel extends along a first lateral plane and comprises a plurality of mounting hooks extending laterally from and affixed to a backside of the first subpanel, the mounting hooks configured to couple to the mounting flashing; a second subpanel including second PV cells, wherein the second subpanel extends along a second lateral plane, wherein the second subpanel comprises a front edge support configured to hold a front edge of the second subpanel away from the mounting surface; and a hinge assembly rotationally coupling the first subpanel and the second subpanel to allow an angle between the first lateral plane and the second lateral plane to change.