Switchable Solar Cell String Lengths for Lifetime Voltage Control
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional solar cell arrays are designed with a fixed number of solar cells to withstand the worst-case radiation conditions, resulting in inefficiency as the voltage changes over the lifespan due to varying radiation and temperature, leading to underutilization of solar cells.
Innovation Solution
A solar cell array design with individually attachable solar cells to a substrate, utilizing corner conductors for electrical connections and switches to reconfigure string lengths, allowing dynamic adjustment of series connections and outputs.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If solar cell arrays are designed with a fixed number of solar cells to withstand worst-case radiation conditions, then reliability is improved, but productivity deteriorates due to underutilization of solar cells
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements dynamic reconfiguration of solar cell strings by introducing switches that allow the array to change its operational configuration. The solar cell array transitions from a static fixed-string design to a dynamic system where string lengths can be adjusted based on real-time conditions (radiation levels, temperature, power demands), enabling optimal power generation while maintaining reliability throughout the array's lifespan
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the operational parameters of the solar cell array by allowing variable string lengths through switchable connections. Instead of maintaining a fixed number of series-connected cells, the system dynamically adjusts the effective string length by opening or closing switches, thereby adapting to changing environmental conditions and power requirements without compromising reliability
2Device complexity
If solar cell arrays use fixed string lengths, then device complexity is reduced, but adaptability deteriorates as voltage changes over lifespan
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces dynamic switching capability into the solar cell array, transforming it from a static to a dynamic system. Switches are integrated into the string connections, allowing the array to reconfigure its electrical topology in response to changing conditions (radiation, temperature, power demands), thereby achieving adaptability without excessive complexity
Solution Approach 2:
The patent segments the solar cell array into modular units with switchable connections. By dividing the array into separable string segments that can be independently configured through switches, the system achieves adaptability while maintaining manageable complexity through standardized modular components
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
Enables optimal power production by adjusting string lengths to maintain consistent output voltage, reducing underutilization and increasing power generation efficiency throughout the array's lifespan.
Implementation Method 1
A solar cell array comprises one or more solar cells attached to a substrate
Data Source
AI summary
A solar cell array comprised of one or more solar cells attached to a substrate. The substrate includes one or more electrical connections to the solar cells and one or more switches for changing a string length for one or more of the solar cells by altering a current flow path between the one or more of the solar cells and one or more of the electrical connections.