Window-Integrated Solar Module Wiring Layout for Hidden Cabling

Resolve Bottlenecks,
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions

Solution Overview

Problem

The existing multilayer glass window solutions for solar power generation in windows expose wires for electricity collection, making them visually unappealing and potentially hazardous, while also lacking effective heat insulation.

Innovation Solution

An indoor structure with a solar cell module integrated between a ceiling and a floor, where the extraction wire is routed between a vertical wall and the window, hidden from view, and connected through a terminal box, with a cover member to enhance safety and aesthetics, and includes a gap for improved heat insulation.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Ease of manufacture

If the extraction wire is exposed from the solar cell module for electricity collection, then the solar power generation function is achieved, but the appearance of the indoor space deteriorates and safety hazards increase

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvesolar power generation functionVSAvoidappearance of indoor space

Core Design Contradiction:

Ease of manufactureVSShape

Solution Approach 1:

A cover member is introduced as an intermediary element between the extraction wire and the indoor space. This cover member conceals the wire while allowing the solar cell module to maintain its power generation function, thus resolving the conflict between functional visibility and aesthetic requirements

Inventive Principle:

Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

Solution Approach 2:

The extraction wire is routed through the thickness direction of the solar cell module, utilizing the Z-dimension (depth) rather than being exposed on the X-Y plane (surface). This dimensional transition allows the wire to be hidden from view while maintaining electrical connectivity

Inventive Principle:

Principle #17Another dimension (Dimensionality change)

2Temperature

If multiple layers of windows are installed for heat insulation, then thermal insulation performance is improved, but the construction work becomes large and complex

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveheat insulation performanceVSAvoidconstruction work

Core Design Contradiction:

TemperatureVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The solar cell module is merged with the window structure, integrating power generation and heat insulation functions into a single component. The module includes transparent substrates and solar cells arranged between them, forming a multifunctional unit that replaces traditional multi-layer windows

Inventive Principle:

Principle #5Merging (Combining)

Solution Approach 2:

The solar cell module serves multiple functions simultaneously: it acts as a window pane for light transmission, a solar power generator for electricity production, and a thermal insulation layer for heat control, eliminating the need for separate multi-layer window installations

Inventive Principle:

Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

3Adaptability or versatility

If the solar cell module is integrated into the window structure, then both heat insulation and solar power generation are achieved, but the extraction wire becomes exposed and visually unappealing

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveheat insulation and power generationVSAvoidvisual appearance

Core Design Contradiction:

Adaptability or versatilityVSShape

Solution Approach 1:

Inventive Principle:

Principle #17Another dimension (Dimensionality change)

Solution Approach 2:

A cover member is introduced as an intermediary element that conceals the extraction wire while allowing the solar cell module to maintain its dual functions of heat insulation and power generation

Inventive Principle:

Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

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 effectively hides the wires, improving the appearance and safety of the indoor space while maintaining heat insulation and enabling continuous power generation even if one solar cell string is damaged.

Implementation Method 1

a solar cell module, a solar cell being sealed with a glass plate

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectPhotovoltaic effect: Photovoltaic Effect

Implementation Method 2

a spacing between the window main surface and the panel main surface is 5 mm or more and 50 mm or less... heat can be insulated by a gas such as air in the space

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectThermal insulation: Thermal Insulation

Data Source

PatentUS11750144B2Indoor structure

Publication Date: 2023.09.05 KANEKA CORP

AI summary

The present invention provides an indoor structure in which a wire to a solar cell module is hardly visible and design is improved. In an indoor structure, a solar cell module is attached to a window disposed between a ceiling and a floor. The ceiling has a first ceiling part, and a second ceiling part continuous with the first ceiling part via a vertical wall part on a lower side than the first ceiling part, the window has a window glass including a window main surface, the solar cell module has a main body panel and an extraction wire, the main body panel is obtained by arranging solar cells between two translucent substrates, and is capable of transmitting light in a thickness direction, the main body panel includes a panel main surface, and the panel main surface faces the window main surface of the window, the extraction wire extends inside and outside the main body panel, and includes a first end part, the first end part of the extraction wire is electrically connected to the solar cells within the main body panel, the extraction wire has a wire part exposed from the main body panel, and the wire part is laid between the vertical wall and the window.