PV Module Defect Detection Using Thermal and EL Image Stacking
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current solar photovoltaic module detection methods are inefficient, requiring significant manpower and resources for on-site defect location due to inability to accurately identify defects, and rely on manual interpretation of thermal and EL images, which is prone to error even for trained professionals.
Innovation Solution
An intelligent detection system comprising an image module, target detection module, and physical model processing module that captures images based on different physical properties and uses chromaticity coordinate diagrams to accurately identify defect locations through image stacking and physical formula processing.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If manual inspection methods are used to detect defects in solar photovoltaic modules, then professional staff can examine thermal images, but accurate manual judgement remains difficult and time-consuming
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces manual mechanical inspection with an automated intelligent detection system that uses image modules to capture thermal images and electroluminescence images, then processes these images through a physical model processing module with chromaticity coordinate diagrams to automatically identify defect locations and types, eliminating the need for manual image examination
Solution Approach 2:
The system enables self-service detection by automatically capturing, processing, and analyzing images without requiring professional staff intervention. The physical model processing module autonomously identifies defects by comparing image data against established physical models and chromaticity coordinates, allowing the system to perform its own inspection and diagnosis
2Loss of information
If voltmeters and ammeters are used for on-site detection, then overall characteristics can be measured, but defect location cannot be identified requiring transport to laboratory
Solution Approach 1:
The patent transitions from one-dimensional electrical measurement (voltmeter/ammeter readings) to two-dimensional spatial imaging by capturing thermal images and electroluminescence images that display defect locations visually. The chromaticity coordinate diagram adds a third dimension by mapping different defect types to specific color coordinates, enabling simultaneous identification of location and defect type without transporting the module
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces image modules and physical model processing as intermediaries between the solar photovoltaic module and the inspector. These intermediaries capture and process the physical signals (thermal radiation, electroluminescence) to extract defect location information, eliminating the need for direct physical transport to laboratory equipment
3Loss of information
If EL images are used only for determining cell rupture, then shipping responsibility can be clarified, but more defect information is not acquired
Solution Approach 1:
The patent makes the image detection system universal by designing it to perform multiple functions: capturing electroluminescence images for shipping verification, capturing thermal images for defect detection, and processing both image types through the same physical model processing module to identify various defect types. This multi-functional approach extracts maximum information from the imaging system without requiring separate specialized equipment for each detection purpose
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 system enables precise identification of defect locations and characteristics, reducing manual interpretation errors and resource consumption, thereby enhancing detection efficiency and accuracy on-site.
Implementation Method 1
the scanning mode is based on luminescence or thermal radiation emitted by variation of voltage, current, or illumination
Implementation Method 2
the scanning mode is based on luminescence or thermal radiation emitted by variation of voltage, current, or illumination
Data Source
AI summary
An intelligent detection system includes an image module, a target detection module, and a physical model processing module. The target detection module runs a scanning mode on the target object and controls the image module to capture target images of the target object with different physical properties under the scanning mode. The scanning mode is allowed to be based on luminescence or thermal radiation emitted by variation of time, voltage, current, or illumination. The physical model processing module receives the target images and carries out an image stacking process with each target image based on different physical properties, generating a detection result image through physical formula of electronic circuit in cooperation with a chromaticity coordinate diagram. The detection result image displays the accordingly formed image distribution, through which the physical model processing module obtains the functions, features, defect locations or identification results of defect locations of the target object.