Photovoltaic System Front-Access Connection Modules
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing photovoltaic systems face challenges in easy assembly and disassembly of modules, limited access for installation and maintenance, and exposure to loads, which affects the quality and longevity of electrical connections, especially in building-integrated photovoltaics (BIPV) applications.
Innovation Solution
A photovoltaic system with elastic connection modules that allow for easy alignment and connection of photovoltaic modules to an assembly profile without requiring access to the back, featuring a connector design with plug contacts that can be automatically aligned and moved to create electrical connections, minimizing space requirements and avoiding loads on connections.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Area of stationary object
If connection devices are arranged at the edge of photovoltaic modules, then the back of modules can be dispensed with and less space is used, but access to connecting devices is significantly limited making installation and repair work elaborate
Solution Approach 1:
The patent inverts the conventional connection approach by moving connection devices from the edge to the front side of photovoltaic modules. This allows connection elements to be accessed directly from the front during installation and maintenance, eliminating the need to work from the back or edges of modules while maintaining compact space usage.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces an assembly profile as an intermediary component that facilitates connection between photovoltaic modules. The assembly profile contains integrated connection elements that mediate the electrical and mechanical connection, making it easier to access and manipulate connections without directly accessing the module edges or backs.
2Productivity
If connection devices are arranged at the edge of photovoltaic modules, then less space is used, but installation and repair work become elaborate due to limited access
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the connection devices with the assembly profile structure. The connection elements are integrated into the assembly profile rather than being separate edge-mounted components, simplifying the overall system and enabling easier access during installation and repair operations.
Solution Approach 2:
The assembly profile with integrated connection elements enables self-aligning and self-connecting functionality during module assembly. The connection system is designed to facilitate easy plugging and unplugging of electrical connections without requiring complex alignment procedures or specialized tools.
3Ease of operation
If photovoltaic modules are connected on the back to connection lines, then connections can be made, but working on the back of modules is time-consuming and access is limited
Solution Approach 1:
The patent inverts the connection location from the back to the front side of photovoltaic modules. This allows installers to access connection elements from the front during installation and maintenance, eliminating the need to work from the back where access is limited and time-consuming.
4Ease of manufacture
If connection contacts are exposed, then connections can be made, but contact problems occur in the long term due to exposure to loads and weather
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs a nested structure where connection contacts are housed within protective enclosures integrated into the assembly profile. The connection elements are nested within the profile structure, which provides protection from weather and mechanical loads while maintaining electrical connectivity.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent uses sealing elements and protective coverings (flexible shells) to enclose connection contacts. These protective layers shield the electrical connections from environmental factors such as moisture, dust, and UV radiation, preventing contact problems and extending the lifespan of the photovoltaic system.
Data Source
Figure 1a~1b
Figure 1c
Figure 2
AI summary
The photovoltaic system (100) comprises at least one photovoltaic module (8) having an effective area (F) and detachably mounted on a mounting profile (9); a first connection module (2) detachably connected to the mounting profile (9) and having first plug contacts (22) held in a first housing (20), which can be connected to connecting cables (7); and a second connection module (3) permanently or detachably connected to the photovoltaic module (8) and having second plug contacts (32) held in a second housing (30), which are detachably connected to the first plug contacts (22) and preferably permanently connected to electrical conductors of the photovoltaic module (8). According to the invention, the first connection module (2) is elastically displaceable in a plane parallel to the effective area of the installed photovoltaic module (8) by the mounting profile (9).