Solar Cell Interconnector with Uneven Light-Scattering Surfaces
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional solar cell modules experience reduced photoelectric transformation efficiency due to the size of interconnectors, which occupy space on the light-receiving surface, and the manufacturing costs are increased by forming uneven surfaces to improve efficiency, while also compromising attachment strength and ease of handling.
Innovation Solution
A solar cell module design featuring an interconnector with one or both surfaces having uneven areas, such as convex or concave portions, to enhance light scattering, combined with a planarized third area for connection, made from conductive metals like Cu, Al, or Ag, allowing for efficient electrical connection and improved light absorption.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Loss of energy
If an interconnector with an uneven surface is used to improve light scattering and photoelectric transformation efficiency, then photoelectric transformation efficiency is improved, but manufacturing cost increases due to the additional process required to form the uneven surface
Solution Approach 1:
The interconnector is designed with different surface qualities in different areas: the first and second areas (contacting solar cells) have uneven surfaces for light scattering, while the third area (connection region) has a planarized surface for reliable electrical connection. This local differentiation allows the uneven surface to improve photoelectric efficiency without requiring the entire interconnector to undergo complex surface treatment processes.
Solution Approach 2:
The interconnector is divided into three distinct areas with different surface characteristics: first area with uneven surface for light scattering, second area with uneven surface for light scattering, and third area with planarized surface for connection. This segmentation allows each region to perform its specific function optimally while simplifying the overall manufacturing approach.
2Reliability
If the third area of the interconnector is planarized to ensure reliable electrical connection, then connection reliability is improved, but light scattering capability is reduced in that area
Solution Approach 1:
The third area is specifically planarized to provide a stable, reliable surface for electrical connection between interconnectors, while the first and second areas maintain uneven surfaces for light scattering. This local quality differentiation ensures that connection reliability is improved without sacrificing overall light scattering capability of the interconnector.
3Ease of operation
If the uneven surface is pressed during transfer and storage on a spool, then the interconnector maintains compact storage, but the uneven surface is deformed and light scattering is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The uneven surface is formed on the interconnector before it is wound on the spool for storage and transfer. This preliminary formation of the uneven surface ensures that the light scattering structure is already in place and can withstand subsequent handling and storage conditions without requiring additional protective measures or post-processing.
4Loss of energy
If the size of the interconnector is reduced to minimize space occupation on the light receiving surface, then photoelectric transformation efficiency is improved, but attachment strength between interconnector and solar cells is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The interconnector design concentrates the uneven surface features in the first and second areas that contact the solar cells, providing both light scattering functionality and adequate attachment strength in these critical regions, while minimizing the overall size of the interconnector to reduce space occupation on the light receiving surface.
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 increases photoelectric transformation efficiency by optimizing light absorption and reducing manufacturing costs through simultaneous electrical connection and surface formation, while maintaining attachment strength and ease of handling.
Implementation Method 1
a portion (for example, light incident on the uneven surface of the interconnector) of light incident on the light receiving surface of the solar cell is reflected from the uneven surface of the interconnector and then is again incident on the light receiving surface of the solar cell due to light scattering
Data Source
AI summary
A solar cell module having an interconnector and a method of fabricating the same are disclosed. The solar cell module includes a plurality of solar cells and an interconnector including a first area electrically connected to one of two adjacent solar cells of the plurality of solar cells, a second area electrically connected to the other of the two adjacent solar cells, and a third area connecting the first area to the second area. At least one of the first area and the second area of the interconnector has at least one uneven surface, and the third area of the interconnector has a substantially planarized surface.