Solar Cell Module Overlap Design for Structural Stability
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional solar cell modules with overlapping solar cells are prone to cracks and damage due to gaps between overlapping portions, which reduces the space occupancy ratio and power generation efficiency.
Innovation Solution
The solar cell module design includes finger electrodes and busbar electrodes on the front and rear surfaces, with an interconnection ribbon connecting them, and features such as insertion grooves or through-holes to reduce the gap between overlapping cells, and a support portion to enhance structural stability.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Area of stationary object
If solar cells are disposed to overlap each other to increase space occupancy ratio, then the space occupancy ratio is improved, but gaps between overlapping portions cause cracks and damage
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies nesting by placing the lower solar cell inside the overlapping region of the upper solar cell, creating a nested structure where one cell is partially contained within the projection area of another. This nested arrangement maximizes space utilization while the interconnection ribbon acts as a cushioning element between the nested cells to prevent direct contact and potential damage.
Solution Approach 2:
The interconnection ribbon is positioned beforehand between the overlapping portions of adjacent solar cells to provide cushioning protection. This pre-placed cushioning element prevents direct contact between the cells, absorbing potential impact forces and preventing cracks or damage before they can occur during operation or installation.
2Strength
If a relatively large gap is formed between overlapping portions due to thickness of busbar and interconnection ribbon, then the solar cell is easily damaged or cracks are generated when external force is applied
Solution Approach 1:
The patent changes the thickness parameter of the interconnection ribbon to optimize the balance between mechanical protection and structural simplicity. By carefully controlling the ribbon thickness, the design achieves adequate cushioning protection against external forces while minimizing the gap size and avoiding excessive structural complexity.
3Power
If one end of the interconnection ribbon is attached to positive electrode of one side solar cell and the other end is attached to negative electrode of the other side solar cell, then power can be transmitted, but a spacing distance must be present forming a reactive power area that does not contribute to power generation
Solution Approach 1:
The patent transitions from a conventional side-by-side arrangement to an overlapping arrangement where solar cells are positioned in both horizontal and vertical dimensions. This dimensional change allows the interconnection ribbon to attach to electrodes at the edges of overlapping cells, effectively utilizing the vertical space and eliminating the need for additional horizontal spacing, thereby reducing reactive power area.
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 reduces the reactive power area, increases the space occupancy ratio, and enhances the structural performance and stability of the solar cell module, leading to improved power generation efficiency and reduced incidence of cracks and damage.
Implementation Method 1
Solar cells convert solar energy into electric energy using a photoelectric conversion effect
Data Source
AI summary
The present invention relates to a solar cell module and, more specifically, to a solar cell module in which solar cells are disposed to partially overlap each other so as to increase a space occupancy ratio of the solar cells and which is capable of solving safety and structural problems caused by the solar cells being disposed to overlap each other. In the solar cell module according to the present invention, the solar cells are disposed to partially overlap each other, thereby reducing a reactive power region and concurrently increasing a space occupancy ratio of the solar cells to increase power generation efficiency. In addition, a gap between portions at which the solar cells overlap each other is reduced to considerably reduce an incidence rate of cracks and damage, thereby improving stability and structural performance.