Solar Cell Module with Segmented Reflection Member

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Solution Overview

Problem

Current solar cell modules have limitations in achieving improved photoelectric conversion efficiency due to suboptimal light reflection and distribution among solar cells.

Innovation Solution

The solar cell module incorporates rectangular-shaped solar cells with chamfered corners arranged in a matrix, featuring a protection member on the light-receiving surface and a reflection member with a rectangular shape and multiple reflection areas, each with distinct reflection directions to enhance light reflection and distribution.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Loss of energy

If a conventional solar cell module with uniformly spaced solar cells is used, then the structure is simple and easy to manufacture, but the photoelectric conversion efficiency is limited due to suboptimal light reflection and distribution

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvelight lossVSAvoidreflection member structure
Core Design Contradiction:
Loss of energyVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The reflection member is divided into multiple reflection areas (first reflection area, second reflection area, third reflection area, fourth reflection area) with different reflection directions. Each reflection area is segmented to redirect light from specific gaps between solar cells toward adjacent solar cells, optimizing light distribution while maintaining manufacturing feasibility through modular design

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

Different regions of the reflection member are assigned different reflection characteristics. The first reflection area reflects light from the first gap in a first direction, the second reflection area reflects light from the second gap in a second direction, and so on. This local differentiation of reflection properties maximizes light utilization efficiency while keeping the overall structure manageable

Inventive Principle:
Principle #3Local quality

2Productivity

If solar cells are arranged in a matrix with spacing between them, then light can be reflected and redistributed, but light loss occurs in the gaps between solar cells

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveenergy harvesting capabilityVSAvoidlight loss in gaps
Core Design Contradiction:
ProductivityVSLoss of energy

Solution Approach 1:

The gaps between solar cells, which normally represent light loss and wasted space, are converted into beneficial light redirecting pathways. The reflection member captures light that would otherwise be lost in these gaps and redirects it toward adjacent solar cells, transforming the harmful effect of spacing into a beneficial light distribution mechanism that enhances overall energy harvesting

Inventive Principle:
Principle #22Blessing in disguise (Convert harm into benefit)

Solution Approach 2:

The reflection member acts as an intermediary element between the gaps where light is lost and the solar cells that need light. By positioning the reflection member in the gaps and configuring its reflection surfaces, it mediates the transfer of light from unused spaces to active photovoltaic elements, improving system efficiency without requiring changes to the solar cells themselves

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

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 configuration improves the photoelectric conversion efficiency by ensuring that reflected light is directed towards the solar cells, reducing light loss and increasing the module's overall energy harvesting capability.

Implementation Method 1

The reflection member includes a reflection surface. The reflection surface reflects incident light from a light receiving surface side toward the protection member.

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectLight reflection: Reflection

Implementation Method 2

A solar cell module according to the present invention is provided with a plurality of solar cells each having a rectangular shape with chamfered corners

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectPhotoelectric conversion: Photoelectric Effect

Data Source

PatentUS8847062B2Solar cell module
Publication Date: 2014.09.30 SANYO ELECTRIC CO LTD
  • US8847062B2 patent drawing
  • US8847062B2 patent drawing
  • US8847062B2 patent drawing

AI summary

A solar cell module is provided with a plurality of solar cells each having a rectangular shape with chamfered corners, a protection member arranged in a light receiving surface side of the solar cells, and a reflection member having a rectangular shape in a plan view. The reflection member is arranged in an area surrounded by the solar cells. The reflection member includes a reflection surface. The reflection surface includes a plurality of areas. The areas are provided so that reflection directions of light perpendicular to the light receiving surfaces are different from each other in adjacent ones of the areas, the adjacent ones being adjacent to each other in a row direction or a column direction of the solar cells.