Transparent Solar Module Layout for Voltage and Power Balance
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional see-through solar modules face challenges in achieving both transparency and sufficient output power due to high series voltage from large numbers of rectangular cells in series, necessitating either high series voltage or reduced cell count, which limits practical application.
Innovation Solution
A novel solar cell layout design with elongated cells connected in series at a predetermined spacing, combined with bus strips for series/parallel connections and bypass diodes for protection, housed within transparent covers to maintain visual appearance and enhance power output.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Area of stationary object
If the total number of series groups of rectangular cells is increased to meet the width requirement of the solar module, then the series voltage becomes excessively high, but this high series voltage limits practical application in building-integrated photovoltaics
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the solar module into multiple parallel battery strings, each containing a limited number of series-connected cells. This segmentation allows the module to achieve the required width while keeping the series voltage within acceptable ranges by distributing cells across multiple parallel paths rather than using a single long series chain.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent transitions from a single-dimensional series arrangement to a two-dimensional array structure with multiple parallel battery strings. This dimensional change enables simultaneous optimization of module width and voltage control by arranging cells in both series and parallel configurations across the module area.
2Power
If the total number of narrow-width rectangular cells in series is reduced to avoid excessively high series voltage, then the module width and output power become insufficient for practical applications
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple battery strings in parallel configuration, where each string contributes to the overall current output. This merging of parallel paths increases the total output power while maintaining controlled series voltage levels, as the parallel connection allows currents to add up without increasing the series voltage.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent creates a modular battery string design that can be replicated and arranged in different parallel configurations to meet various power and voltage requirements. This universal module structure allows the same cell design to be adapted for different application scenarios by adjusting the number and arrangement of parallel strings.
3Illumination intensity
If conventional rectangular cells are used in building-integrated photovoltaic applications, then the module must be visually transparent, but the presence of numerous cells, bus strips, and junction boxes compromises the transparency and aesthetic appearance
Solution Approach 1:
The patent uses elongated narrow-width rectangular cells with a length-to-width ratio greater than 10, which creates larger gaps between adjacent cells when arranged in parallel battery strings. This local geometric optimization reduces the visual obstruction caused by cells and interconnection elements, improving transparency in specific critical areas while maintaining overall power output through increased parallel string count.
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 allows for increased output power while maintaining transparency, ensuring safe electrical operation and preventing overheating, thus meeting practical application requirements.
Implementation Method 1
a plurality of solar cells, wherein the plurality of solar cells are welded and connected in series
Data Source
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AI summary
A solar module includes a plurality of solar cells and a carrier plate. The carrier plate includes a front cover and a back cover. The plurality of solar cells are welded and connected in series to define a plurality of solar battery string groups. The plurality of solar cells are connected in series at a predetermined spacing distance therebetween in a first direction to form each of the plurality of solar battery string groups. A width of each of the plurality of solar cells in the first direction is a first length, a length of each of the plurality of solar cells in a second direction is a second length, and a ratio of the second length to the first length is greater than 10. The plurality of solar battery string groups are pressed between the front cover and the back cover via a plurality of bus strips.