Transparent Solar Cell Module Layout for Facade Power Generation

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Solution Overview

Problem

Conventional solar cell modules have aesthetic and installation challenges due to exposed interconnector ribbons and limited space for solar cell arrays, which restricts their installation and efficiency.

Innovation Solution

A solar cell module with a parallel/series connection structure featuring thin film solar cells, condensing layers, and transparent electrodes, allowing for installation in various shapes and enhancing light transmittance and electric power generation by optimizing the angle of sunlight incidence.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Power

If conventional solar cell modules are installed on building roofs, then electric power generation is achieved, but installation space is limited due to cooling towers occupying roof space

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveelectric power generationVSAvoidinstallation space
Core Design Contradiction:
PowerVSArea of stationary object

Solution Approach 1:

The patent transitions solar cell installation from the horizontal roof surface to the vertical window surface, utilizing the building's facade area instead of roof area. This dimensional change allows solar cells to be installed in spaces that were previously unavailable for power generation without competing with cooling towers or other roof equipment.

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

2Power

If solar cell arrays are installed in limited roof space, then power generation is achieved, but installation operation becomes difficult

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvepower generationVSAvoidinstallation operation
Core Design Contradiction:
PowerVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The solar cell array is divided into multiple modular units that can be independently installed and connected. Each module can be handled and positioned separately, making the installation process more manageable in confined spaces and reducing the complexity of installation operations compared to large monolithic arrays.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

3Reliability

If interconnector ribbons are exposed in conventional solar cell modules, then electrical connection is achieved, but aesthetic appearance deteriorates

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveelectrical connectionVSAvoidaesthetic appearance
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSShape

Solution Approach 1:

The interconnector ribbons are covered with materials that match the color and appearance of the surrounding solar cells and encapsulant, making them visually indistinguishable from the rest of the module. This camouflage approach maintains the electrical connectivity function while eliminating the aesthetic disadvantage of exposed metallic ribbons.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #32Color changes

4Illumination intensity

If thin film solar cells with parallel and series connection structure are used, then light transmittance is enhanced, but manufacturing complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvelight transmittanceVSAvoidmanufacturing complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Illumination intensityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The solar cell array is segmented into multiple thin film solar cells with smaller individual areas, arranged in parallel and series connections. This segmentation allows light to pass through the gaps between cells while maintaining electrical connectivity, achieving enhanced light transmittance through a structured arrangement rather than through complex material properties.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

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 solution enables efficient installation of solar cell modules without visual hindrance, securing safety and increasing electric power output by improving sunlight incidence angles and light collection rates.

Implementation Method 1

uses a photovoltaic effect, in which a small amount of currents flow under light

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectPhotovoltaic effect: Photovoltaic Effect

Implementation Method 2

a plurality of condensing layers 120, which are arranged alternately

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectLight condensation: Focusing

Data Source

PatentUS11843065B2Solar cell module having parallel and series connection structure
Publication Date: 2023.12.12 KOREA UNIV RES & BUSINESS FOUND
  • US11843065B2 patent drawing
  • US11843065B2 patent drawing
  • US11843065B2 patent drawing

AI summary

Disclosed is a solar cell module including a first solar cell unit including a plurality of solar cells and a plurality of condensing layers, which are arranged alternately, a second solar cell unit including a plurality of solar cells and a plurality of condensing layers, which are arranged alternately, and each of the plurality of solar cells of the first solar cell unit and the second solar cell unit includes a first electrode disposed on one side thereof and a second electrode disposed on an opposite side thereof, whereby a visibility, by which the light passes through the solar cell module, is increased by including the plurality of solar cells and the plurality of condensing layers, through which a visual ray may pass.