Split-Cell Solar Module Layout to Prevent Terminal Box Damage
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Solution Overview
Problem
Solar cell modules using half cells are prone to bending, which can cause damage to terminal boxes due to contact with installation surfaces, especially in enlarged modules with slimmed frame members, leading to potential power loss and reduced efficiency.
Innovation Solution
A solar cell module design with a two parallel module structure using split cells, where first and second solar cell strings with different light-receiving areas are arranged in a specific orientation and connected in parallel, with terminal boxes positioned away from the center of bending to prevent contact and damage.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Loss of energy
If half cells are used to reduce power loss due to series resistance, then power generation efficiency is improved, but the terminal box may protrude below the frame member and contact the installation surface causing damage
Solution Approach 1:
The patent positions the parallel connection part in the longitudinal direction away from the middle part of the module, effectively moving the terminal box location along the length dimension. This dimensional repositioning ensures that even when the module bends under load, the terminal box remains above the installation surface and avoids contact damage, while still maintaining the half-cell configuration for reduced power loss.
2Productivity
If the module size is enlarged by increasing the number of solar cells, then product unit price per 1W is reduced, but the bending amount increases making terminal box contact more likely
Solution Approach 1:
The patent resolves this contradiction by strategically positioning the parallel connection part along the longitudinal dimension of the module, away from the middle section. This dimensional placement allows the module to be enlarged with more cells for better economics, while the terminal box location is designed to clear the installation surface even when bending occurs due to the increased module size.
3Loss of substance
If the frame member is slimmed to reduce material usage, then cost is reduced, but the terminal box protrudes below the frame member bottom part
Solution Approach 1:
The patent addresses this by repositioning the parallel connection part in the longitudinal direction away from the module's middle section. This allows the frame member to be slimmed for cost reduction, while the terminal box is located at a position where it remains elevated above the installation surface, preventing protrusion issues even with the reduced frame height.
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 enhances power generation efficiency and prevents terminal box damage while maintaining high output performance, even under bending conditions.
Implementation Method 1
Solar cell module in which a plurality of first solar cells 301 having a first light-receiving area and a plurality of second solar cells 302 having a second light-receiving area different from the first light-receiving area are arranged in an oblong shape in a first direction D1
Data Source
AI summary
A solar cell module is provided with a first solar cell string including a plurality of first solar cells and a second solar cell string including a plurality of second solar cells. The first solar cell string and the second solar cell string are connected in parallel to each other. The first solar cell and the second solar cell are split solar cells. The first solar cell string and the second solar cell string are arranged in a first direction of the solar cell module. A parallel connection part is interposed between the first solar cell string and the second solar cell string. The parallel connection part is provided away from a center line of the solar cell module in the first direction.