Solar Module Frame Notch Groove for Cleaner Light-Receiving Surfaces
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Solution Overview
Problem
Solar cell modules face issues with liquid disposability on their light receiving surfaces, leading to reduced output due to dirt accumulation from evaporated liquids, and existing notch designs in module frames do not effectively prevent soiling when modules are tilted and adjacent.
Innovation Solution
A solar cell module design featuring a notch groove on the module frame that extends from the light receiving surface to the exterior side surface, with a draw part of smallest width, to facilitate efficient liquid drainage and reduce dirt accumulation, even when modules are tilted and adjacent.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If a notch is provided on the module frame member to improve liquid drainage, then liquid disposability is improved, but dirt and dust remain on the light receiving surface causing output reduction
Solution Approach 1:
The notch structure is extended into the thickness direction of the module frame member, creating a three-dimensional drainage pathway. The notch has a first end opening on the light receiving surface and a second end opening on the rear surface, allowing liquid to drain through the thickness dimension rather than just along the surface, thereby improving drainage effectiveness while preventing dirt accumulation on the light receiving surface.
2Productivity
If solar cell modules are arranged tilted and adjacent without gaps to maximize space utilization, then productivity is improved, but liquid flows from upper modules to lower modules causing severe soiling on bottom row modules
Solution Approach 1:
The module frame member is segmented by introducing a notch that divides the frame structure into distinct regions. The notch creates separate drainage zones that control liquid flow within each module, preventing liquid from spilling over to adjacent modules. This segmentation allows modules to be arranged closely without liquid interference between them.
Solution Approach 2:
The notch acts as an intermediary drainage channel that intercepts liquid on the light receiving surface and guides it to a controlled discharge point on the rear surface. This intermediary structure prevents liquid from reaching the edges and flowing to adjacent modules, thereby protecting lower modules from soiling while maintaining close arrangement.
3Manufacturing precision
If the notch opening width is reduced to improve liquid flow control, then liquid drainage precision is improved, but manufacturing complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The notch structure implements local quality by having different opening widths at different locations: the first end opening on the light receiving surface has a controlled, narrower width for precise liquid flow control, while the second end opening on the rear surface has a larger width for effective drainage discharge. This localized differentiation optimizes both flow control and drainage efficiency without requiring the entire notch structure to be complex.
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 notch groove design effectively discharges liquid from the light receiving surface, reducing dirt and dust accumulation, thereby enhancing the solar cell module's output and durability by preventing soiling and improving water flow characteristics.
Implementation Method 1
liquid due to precipitation and so on remains on the light receiving surface... liquid existing on solar cell modules at the upper side of the inclination flows down to the solar cell modules at the lower side
Implementation Method 2
a draw part with smallest width... effectively discharges liquid from the light receiving surface
Data Source
AI summary
A reliable solar cell module is provided whereby the liquid is less likely to stay thereon, thus dirt is less likely to occur on the light receiving surface of the solar cell module even in a prolonged use. A solar cell module comprising a solar cell panel, and a module frame. The solar cell module comprising a light receiving surface side member with a light receiving surface: a rear surface side member; and a solar cell element between the light receiving surface side member an the rear surface side member. The module frame fixed to the solar cell panel and surrounding the solar cell panel with its interior surface being abutted with an external peripheral part of the solar cell panel. The module frame comprises a notch extending from its inner part towards its external part in plan view from a side of the light receiving surface side member. The notch member comprises: a first portion on an upper surface of the module frame extending so as to reach an exterior side surface of the module frame, a second portion on the exterior side surface of the module frame connected to the first portion and extending from the upper surface of the module frame so that a lower end of an exterior side surface of the light receiving surface side member is exposed, and a draw part with smallest width.