Thin-Film PV Module with Parallel Units for Shape Flexibility
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing thin film photovoltaic modules face challenges in altering their shape or design without requiring time-consuming redesigns or additional connections when individual cells or units are removed.
Innovation Solution
A photovoltaic module design featuring parallel connected photovoltaic cell units with a single top interconnection layer and cross over connection members in a different layer, allowing for flexible shaping and maintaining electrical connections even when cells or units are removed.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If the PV module uses traditional series-connected cell strings with fixed interconnection layers, then the electrical connection is simple and reliable, but the module cannot be easily altered in shape or size without requiring time-consuming redesigns and additional connections
Solution Approach 1:
The PV module divides the module into independent parallel-connected cell units, each with its own series-connected cell string. This segmentation allows individual units to be removed or added without affecting the overall module voltage, enabling flexible shape and size modifications while maintaining electrical functionality through the parallel connection architecture.
Solution Approach 2:
The invention introduces a multi-layer interconnection structure with connection members positioned at different heights (different layers). This vertical dimensionality allows electrical connections to be established both within the plane and across layers, providing routing flexibility that enables shape modification without requiring complete redesign of the interconnection system.
2Adaptability or versatility
If the PV module uses parallel connected cell units with multi-layer interconnection, then the module can be easily altered in shape and size, but the interconnection structure becomes more complex with multiple layers and cross over connection members
Solution Approach 1:
The interconnection structure uses universal connection members that can serve multiple functions: establishing electrical connections between adjacent cell units, providing mechanical support, and enabling both in-plane and vertical routing. This multi-functionality reduces the need for specialized components for each function, simplifying the overall complex multi-layer structure.
Solution Approach 2:
The interconnection structure employs a nested arrangement where connection members in different layers are vertically aligned or offset to create a compact multi-layer configuration. Lower-layer connections are nested within or alongside upper-layer connections, allowing the complex multi-layer structure to be organized in a space-efficient manner that reduces overall complexity.
3Area of stationary object
If cells are removed from a traditional series-connected PV module, then the module area is reduced, but the voltage changes and additional connections are required to maintain circuit continuity
Solution Approach 1:
The parallel connection of independent cell units allows individual units to be removed without disrupting the electrical circuit. Each unit operates independently in parallel, so removing one unit simply reduces the total current output while the voltage remains constant and the remaining units continue to function without requiring additional connections or circuit modifications.
4Ease of manufacture
If the PV module uses a single top interconnection layer, then the manufacturing process is simpler, but electrical connections between distant cell units require longer lateral paths
Solution Approach 1:
The invention adds a vertical dimension to the interconnection structure by introducing multiple layers and cross over connection members. This allows electrical connections to route vertically between layers rather than only laterally within a single plane, significantly shortening the connection path length between distant cell units while keeping the manufacturing process relatively simple through sequential layer deposition.
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 the PV module to be cut into various sizes or shapes without altering its basic specifications, ensuring a fixed voltage and linear current dependency on the module area, while maintaining operational efficiency.
Implementation Method 1
a photovoltaic module comprising a plurality of thin film photovoltaic (PV) cells positioned on a transparent substrate
Data Source
AI summary
Photovoltaic module with a plurality of thin film photovoltaic cells (2). Each thin film photovoltaic cell (2) has a transparent electrode (12) provided on a transparent substrate (11), a solar cell stack (13) positioned on the transparent electrode (12), and a top electrode (14) positioned on the solar cell stack (13). A plurality of parallel connected PV cell units (3) are provided, each comprising a string of series connected PV cells (2). A positive connection part (6, 20a) and a negative connection part (5, 20b) are present in a single top interconnection layer, providing the parallel connection circuit of the parallel connected PV cell units (3). At least one cross over connection member (9a, 9b) is present in a layer different from the single top interconnection layer, which provides an electrical connection in the negative connection part (5, 20b) and/or in the positive connection part (6, 20a).