Solar Cell Module Bypass Topology for Partial Shading Loss
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Solution Overview
Problem
Solar cell modules experience significant power reduction or failure due to partial shading, which can lead to overheating and damage, and existing configurations require lengthy connecting lines for bypass diodes, making them costly and complex.
Innovation Solution
A solar cell module design with four module segments connected in series and two parallel series, where the two middle segments share a common bypass element, reducing the need for lengthy connecting lines and ensuring partial shading only results in partial power reduction rather than complete failure.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If bypass diodes are connected in parallel to multiple solar cells to prevent complete failure under shading, then reliability is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines two bypass diodes into a single bypass element that can connect to both bypass points simultaneously. This merged bypass element provides protection against shading in both module segments while reducing the total number of components from two separate diodes to one unified component, thus resolving the contradiction between reliability and device complexity
Solution Approach 2:
The bypass element is designed with multi-functionality to serve both module segments 2 and 3 simultaneously. By incorporating universal connection capabilities, the single bypass element can activate protection pathways in either or both segments depending on shading conditions, providing comprehensive protection without requiring separate dedicated bypass diodes for each segment
2Reliability
If multiple bypass diodes are installed in each module segment to prevent shading failure, then reliability is improved, but manufacturing cost increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the functionality of two separate bypass diodes into a single bypass element, reducing component count from two to one. This consolidation directly reduces manufacturing costs through fewer components requiring assembly, while maintaining the protective function against shading in both module segments
Solution Approach 2:
The bypass element incorporates connection structures that replicate or adapt the functionality of multiple bypass diodes through a single unified design. By using copying principles, the patent achieves equivalent protection coverage with reduced component proliferation, lowering manufacturing complexity and cost
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 design provides a cost-effective and space-saving solution that maintains output power and prevents damage from partial shading, allowing for shorter connecting lines and simplified production with identical or similar bypass elements, while maintaining comparable electrical characteristics to standard modules.
Implementation Method 1
a second bypass element connected in parallel to the second and third module segments connected in series
Implementation Method 2
Solar cells are sensitive semiconductor components
Data Source
AI summary
A solar cell module, having at least four module segments and a plurality of bypass elements. Each module segment includes at least two solar cell strings connected in parallel and each string includes multiple solar cells connected in series and the four module segments are connected in series. The second and third module segments are connected in series between first and fourth module segments and the four module segments are arranged in two parallel series, having a first series which includes the first and the second module segment and a second series which includes the third and the fourth module segment. A first bypass element is connected in parallel to the first module segment, a second bypass element is connected in parallel to the second and third module segments connected in series, and a third bypass element is connected in parallel to the fourth module segment.