Photovoltaic Module Reinforcement Beam for Strength and Low Weight
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Solution Overview
Problem
Photovoltaic modules installed outdoors require structural reinforcement to enhance strength, safety, and assemblability, while existing solutions do not adequately address these needs.
Innovation Solution
A photovoltaic module design featuring a reinforcement beam with a hollow space, connecting two sides of the frame at the rear of the solar panel, which includes flanges and webs to distribute shear stress and facilitate safe and convenient coupling, and optionally incorporates shock absorbing members for added protection.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Strength
If a reinforcement beam is added to the photovoltaic module, then the strength and structural stability are improved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The reinforcement beam is positioned within the frame structure at the rear of the solar panel, nesting the strengthening element within the existing module boundaries. This allows the reinforcement beam to provide structural support without adding external complexity or increasing the overall module footprint.
Solution Approach 2:
The reinforcement beam operates in the spatial dimension by connecting two separate sides of the frame at the rear of the solar panel. This dimensional approach provides structural reinforcement through spatial distribution rather than increasing material density or complexity in the primary panel area.
2Stress or pressure
If the reinforcement beam is designed with flanges and webs, then the shear stress distribution is improved, but the manufacturing complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The reinforcement beam is segmented into distinct flange and web components. This segmentation allows each part to be optimized for its specific function in distributing shear stress, while also enabling modular manufacturing and assembly processes that can simplify production despite the increased structural capability.
3Reliability
If shock absorbing members are incorporated, then the safety and protection are improved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
Shock absorbing members are incorporated into the reinforcement beam structure to provide beforehand cushioning against potential impacts or environmental stresses. This preventive measure enhances the reliability and safety of the photovoltaic module by protecting it from future damage, while the integration into the existing reinforcement structure minimizes additional complexity.
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 design effectively minimizes drooping, increases the module's strength, enables safe and convenient assembly, and provides a secure grip during operation, while reducing the weight and ensuring safety by distributing shear stress and incorporating shock absorption.
Implementation Method 1
flanges and webs to distribute shear stress and facilitate safe and convenient coupling
Implementation Method 2
the reinforcement beam having a hollow space defined therein
Implementation Method 3
optionally incorporates shock absorbing members for added protection
Data Source
AI summary
A photovoltaic module has a reinforcement beam for strength reinforcement. The photovoltaic module includes a solar panel having one or more solar cells, a frame surrounding an edge of the solar panel, and a reinforcement beam connecting two separate sides of the frame at the rear of the solar panel, which is opposite to a light receiving surface of the solar panel upon which solar light is incident, the reinforcement beam having a hollow space defined therein.