Solar Module Frame Structure to Prevent Panel Dislodgment

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Solution Overview

Problem

Solar cell modules face frame deformation and potential panel dislodgment during handling due to the lack of structural support, as the existing end face sealing members are not securely fixed to the frame, leading to instability under environmental loads.

Innovation Solution

Incorporating an inner flange portion into the frame design, which increases the second moment of area, providing additional structural support and preventing frame deformation and panel dislodgment by enhancing the frame's resistance to displacement.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Ease of manufacture

If end face sealing member is simply fitted in frame without adhesive, then ease of manufacture is improved, but frame strength and stability deteriorate causing frame bending and panel dislodgment

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveease of manufactureVSAvoidframe strength
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of manufactureVSStrength

Solution Approach 1:

The frame is segmented into multiple functional portions: a main body portion, a fitting portion located above the main body, and an inner flange portion extending inward from the peripheral edge. This segmentation allows each portion to serve a specific function - the fitting portion for assembly, the inner flange for structural reinforcement - thereby improving frame strength without complicating the manufacturing process

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The inner flange portion extends in a direction inward from the peripheral edge portion, adding a new dimensional element to the frame structure. This inward extension increases the second moment of area of the frame, providing enhanced structural support and resistance to bending forces without requiring additional materials or complex assembly steps

Inventive Principle:
Principle #17Another dimension (Dimensionality change)

2Ease of operation

If frame structure is simplified for easy assembly, then ease of operation is improved, but frame stability under environmental loads deteriorates

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveease of operationVSAvoidframe stability
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of operationVSReliability

Solution Approach 1:

The frame is divided into distinct functional portions: a main body portion for structural support, a fitting portion for panel installation, and an inner flange portion for reinforcement. This segmentation allows the frame to maintain simple assembly procedures while incorporating enhanced structural features that improve stability under environmental loads such as wind pressure and snow loads

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The inner flange portion is strategically positioned at specific locations within the frame structure, extending inward from the peripheral edge. This localized reinforcement provides enhanced stability and resistance to deformation at critical areas without requiring complex modifications throughout the entire frame structure, thereby maintaining ease of operation while improving reliability

Inventive Principle:
Principle #3Local quality

Data Source

PatentUS9947818B2Solar cell module
Publication Date: 2018.04.17 PANASONIC INTELLECTUAL PROPERTY MANAGEMENT CO LTD
  • US9947818B2 patent drawing
  • US9947818B2 patent drawing
  • US9947818B2 patent drawing

AI summary

A solar cell module includes a solar cell panel including a plurality of solar cells sealed between a front surface member and a back surface member with a sealing material, and a frame supporting a peripheral edge portion of the solar cell panel. The frame includes a main body portion, a fitting portion which is located above the main body portion and in which the peripheral edge portion of the solar cell panel is to be fitted. The frame further includes an inner flange portion provided at a part of the main body portion below the fitting portion and not below a bottom portion of the main body portion and extending in a direction inward from the peripheral edge portion of the solar cell panel.