Solar Module Frame Notch Structure for Liquid Shedding and Low Soiling
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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 are insufficient in preventing this problem, especially when modules are arranged in inclined rows without gaps.
Innovation Solution
A solar cell module design featuring a module frame with a notch that tapers from a wider end portion to a narrower draw part, facilitating efficient liquid discharge and reducing dirt accumulation, along with protruding portions to create spaces between modules for improved liquid flow and reduced soiling.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If a conventional notch is provided on the module frame, then liquid drainage is improved, but liquid accumulation still occurs and dirt remains on the light receiving surface
Solution Approach 1:
The notch is divided into multiple functional segments: a first notch portion extending from the light receiving surface toward the rear surface, and a second notch portion extending from the first notch portion to the exterior side surface. This segmentation creates distinct zones for liquid intake, flow guidance, and discharge, improving overall drainage efficiency and preventing accumulation.
Solution Approach 2:
The notch design transitions from a conventional two-dimensional surface opening to a three-dimensional structure that extends through the module frame thickness. The first notch portion penetrates from the light receiving surface, and the second notch portion connects to the exterior side surface, creating a volumetric drainage pathway that effectively removes liquid from all surfaces.
2Area of stationary object
If solar cell modules are arranged in inclined rows without gaps, then space utilization is improved, but liquid from upper modules flows down to lower modules causing severe soiling
Solution Approach 1:
The exterior side surface of the module frame acts as an intermediary drainage channel. The second notch portion extends to this surface, allowing liquid to be discharged laterally before it can flow down to adjacent lower modules. This intermediary discharge path prevents direct liquid transfer between modules while maintaining tight arrangement.
Solution Approach 2:
The notch structure proactively intercepts and redirects liquid flow before it can reach the exterior side surface and potentially flow to lower modules. By providing a predetermined drainage pathway through the second notch portion, the design prevents the harmful liquid flow phenomenon before it occurs.
3Productivity
If the notch opening width is increased, then liquid discharge capacity is improved, but the structural integrity of the module frame is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The notch is segmented into two portions with different functional requirements. The first notch portion has sufficient width for effective liquid intake from the light receiving surface, while the second notch portion is optimized for guiding liquid to the discharge point. This segmentation allows each portion to be dimensioned appropriately, maintaining frame strength while ensuring discharge capacity.
Solution Approach 2:
Different portions of the notch have different dimensional characteristics optimized for their specific functions. The first notch portion is designed with adequate width for liquid collection, while the second notch portion is configured for efficient flow guidance and discharge. This local optimization ensures overall performance without compromising structural integrity.
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 effectively reduces liquid accumulation and dirt deposition on the solar cell modules, enhancing their output performance by ensuring smooth liquid discharge and maintaining cleanliness even in inclined arrangements.
Implementation Method 1
the notch has a draw part with smallest width at an inner part rather than at the end portion
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 P configured by arranging a solar cell element between a light receiving surface side member and a rear surface side member, and a module frame W1 fixed to the solar cell panel P surrounds the solar cell panel P with its interior surface being abutted with an external peripheral part of the light receiving surface side member is provided. In this solar cell module, the module frame W1 has a notch 27 that extends from its inner part towards its external part in plan view from a side of the light receiving surface side member and is provided with an end portion 5 on an exterior side surface of the frame member, and this notch 27 has a draw part 4 with smallest width at an inner part rather than at the end portion 5.