JP2008543111A - Method and system for integrated solar cells using multiple photovoltaic regions - Google Patents

Abstract

Solar cell device structure and manufacturing method. The device has a back cover member that includes a surface region and a back region. The device also has a plurality of photovoltaic areas arranged to cover the surface area of the back cover member. As a preferred embodiment, a plurality of photovoltaic power generation regions occupy all photovoltaic power generation space regions. The device has a back cover member coupled with the seal material and a seal material covering a portion of the front cover member. At least a contact area along a peripheral area of the back cover member and the front cover member is provided. A sealing area is formed at least on the contact area in order to form individual solar cells from the back cover member and the front cover member. In a preferred embodiment, the ratio of (all photovoltaic space area) / (back cover surface area) is about 0.8 or less for each individual solar cell.

Description

[Cross-reference of related applications]
This application is filed on June 6, 2005 in the name of Kevin R. Gibson and is assigned the priority of US Provisional Patent Application 60/688077 (Attorney Docket No. 025902-000200US), assigned to the same assignee as the present application. Alleged and incorporated herein by reference.

  This application is filed on April 18, 2005 under the name of Kevin R. Gibson, US Provisional Patent Application 60/672815 (Attorney Docket No. 025902-000100US) and Kevin R. Gibson under the name of July 26, 2005. US non-provisional patent application filed on February 4, 2006 in the name of Suvi Sharma et al. Claiming priority of US provisional patent application 60/702728 (Attorney Docket No. 0259902-000300US) 11/354530 (Attorney Docket No. 0259902-000310 US), each application is assigned to the same assignee and is incorporated herein by reference.

  The present invention relates generally to solar energy technology. In particular, the present invention provides a method and resulting apparatus made from a plurality of photovoltaic regions provided on one or more substrate members. In particular, the present invention provides a method and resulting apparatus for manufacturing a photovoltaic region in a substrate member that is coupled with a plurality of light concentrating elements. By way of simple illustration, it will be appreciated that the present invention applies to solar panels commonly referred to as modules, but the present invention has a wider range of applications.

  As the world population grows, industrial expansion has led to massive energy consumption. Energy is taken from fossil fuels including coal, oil, hydropower, nuclear fuel and others. As a simple example, the International Energy Agency expects a further increase in oil consumption in developing countries such as China and India. Every element of our daily life depends to some extent on oil that is becoming scarce. With the times, the era of cheap and abundant oil is coming to an end. Accordingly, other energy sources have been developed.

  Like oil, we rely on hydropower, nuclear fuel, and the like that supply the electricity we need. For example, most of the traditional power required for home and business use is driven by turbines with coal or other fossil fuels, nuclear power plants, hydropower plants, and other renewable Is derived from various energy forms. Often, electricity use at home and in the company is stable and widespread.

  Most importantly, it is derived from the sun, if not all of the available energy found on Earth. Fossil fuels such as oil are produced from bioenergy derived from energy related to the sun. Sunlight is indispensable for humans, including “sun worshipers”. For life on Earth, the sun continues to be the most important energy source and fuel for today's solar energy.

  Solar energy has many desirable properties. Solar energy is renewable, clean, abundant and widespread. One advanced technology captures solar energy, collects it in one place, stores it, and converts it into other beneficial forms of energy.

  Solar panels have been developed to convert sunlight into energy. By way of example only, solar thermal panels are used to convert electromagnetic radiation from the sun into thermal energy for home heating, performing certain industrial production processes, or moving high quality turbines that generate electricity. As another example, a photovoltaic power generation panel directly converts sunlight into electricity and is used for various applications. Solar panels are typically made from a series of solar cells connected to each other. In the solar cell, a group of continuous solar cells is arranged in series and / or in parallel. Therefore, solar panels have great potential to benefit our nation, security and consumers. Solar panels can diversify our energy needs and even reduce our dependence on petroleum worldwide and on harmful energy sources.

  Although solar panels have been fully utilized in certain applications, they still have certain limitations. Solar cells are often expensive. Relying on geography, there is a financial subsidy from government organizations for the purchase of solar panels, and it does not compete with purchasing electricity directly from public power companies. In addition, the solar panel is formed from a silicon-containing wafer material. Such wafer materials are often expensive and difficult to manufacture efficiently at large sizes. The utility of solar panels is also somewhat less. In other words, it is often difficult to find and purchase a solar panel from a limited number of photovoltaic power generation-containing silicon-containing materials. These and other limitations are described throughout this specification. And in particular, it is described below.

  From the above, it will be appreciated that improved technology for solar devices is highly desired.

  In accordance with the present invention, techniques related to solar energy are provided. In particular, the present invention provides a method made from a plurality of photovoltaic regions provided within one or more substrate members, and the result. In particular, the present invention provides a method and resulting product for producing a photovoltaic region that is combined with a plurality of light concentrating elements. By way of example only, the invention applies to solar panels, commonly referred to as modules, but it will be understood that the invention applies to a wider range.

  In specific embodiment, this invention provides the manufacturing method of a solar cell different from a solar cell panel. Alternatively, the solar cell can be packaged as a solar panel. In a preferred embodiment, the method forms a solar cell separate from the panel. One or more solar cells are integrated on the panel to complete the solar panel device according to a specific embodiment. The method includes providing a first substrate member having a plurality of photovoltaic stripe shapes and providing an optical elastomeric material overlying a portion of the first substrate member. The method also includes aligning a second substrate material having a plurality of optical concentrating elements thereon. Thus, it is coupled with at least one of the plurality of photovoltaic stripe shapes so that at least one optical condensing element is operable. The method includes providing a contact region along a peripheral region of the first substrate member and the second substrate member, and bonding the first substrate member to the second substrate member. In a preferred embodiment, the bond is provided by connecting substrates with an elastomeric material between the substrates. The method also includes sealing the contact area to form individual solar cells from at least the first substrate and the second substrate.

  In other specific embodiments, the present invention includes methods of manufacturing other solar cells. The method includes providing a first substrate member having a plurality of power generation regions thereon. In a preferred embodiment, the photovoltaic region is in the form of a stripe, square, trapezoid, symmetric or asymmetric ring, or combinations thereof, or other forms. The method includes providing a sealing material overlying a portion of the first substrate member. The method includes aligning the second substrate member with the first substrate member. The method couples the first substrate member to the second substrate member to form a contact region along a peripheral region of the first substrate member and the second substrate member. In this method, a contact region that forms an individual solar cell from a first substrate member and a second substrate member is sealed.

  In yet another embodiment, the present invention provides a solar cell device. The device has a first substrate member and a plurality of photovoltaic stripe shapes disposed on the first substrate member. The device also includes a second substrate member that includes an optical elastomeric material that covers a portion of the first substrate member and includes a plurality of optical focusing elements thereon. The second substrate member is disposed on the plurality of photovoltaic stripe shapes with at least one of the optical condensing elements operatively coupled to at least one of the plurality of photovoltaic stripe shapes. Is done. The device has a contact area along a peripheral area of the first substrate member and the second substrate member. The device has a sealing area in the contact area in order to form individual solar cells from the first substrate member and the second substrate member.

Furthermore, the present invention provides other solar cell device structures. The device structure has a first substrate member having a spatial region A1, defined as a first square region given in unit squares (eg, cm ² ). In a preferred embodiment, the first square area is associated with the surface area of the first substrate member. The device has a plurality of photovoltaic regions lying on the first substrate member. The plurality of photovoltaic regions occupy all photovoltaic space regions A2 defined as the second square region. The device has a sealing material that covers a portion of the first substrate member. The device also has a second substrate member bonded to the sealing material. The device has a contact area along a peripheral area of the first substrate member and the second substrate member. The device also has a sealing region on the contact region to form individual solar cells from the first substrate material and the second substrate material. In a preferred embodiment, the device is characterized by an A2 / A1 ratio of 0.8 or less for individual solar cells.

  Furthermore, the present invention provides other solar cell device structures. The device structure includes a back cover member having a surface region and a back region. The device structure also has a plurality of photovoltaic regions disposed over the surface region of the back cover member. In a preferred embodiment, the plurality of photovoltaic regions occupy all of the space portion of the photovoltaic region. The device has a sealing material that covers a portion of the back cover member and has a front cover member that is bonded to the sealing material. The contact area is provided at least along the peripheral area of the front cover member and the back cover member. The sealing area is formed at least on the contact area in order to form individual solar cells from the back cover member and the front cover member. In a preferred embodiment, the ratio of the space area of all photovoltaics to the surface area of the back cover is about 0.5 or less for individual solar cells. As other ratios, about 0.8 or less are present according to embodiments. Here, the terms “back cover member” and “front cover member” are given with the intention of illustration, and the scope of the claims is limited to a special configuration relating to spatial arrangement according to a specific embodiment. Is not to be done.

  In a specific embodiment, the present invention provides other solar cell devices. The device has a first substrate member and a plurality of photovoltaic stripe shapes disposed on the first substrate member. The device has a sealing material that covers a portion of the first substrate member. The device has a first refractive index that is characterized by the encapsulating material and has a second substrate member that includes a plurality of optical concentrating elements thereon. In a preferred embodiment, the second substrate member is disposed on the plurality of photovoltaic stripe shapes, so that one of the plurality of optical concentrating elements is at least one of the plurality of solar cell stripe shapes. Operatively coupled to one. Preferably, the plurality of light collecting elements are made of at least a second substrate material. The device has a second refractive index that characterizes the second substrate material. One or more photons through at least one optical concentrator, through the encapsulant, and into a portion of the photovoltaic stripe shape so as to reduce the total number of internal reflections from a portion of the concentrator The second refractive index is substantially matched to the first refractive index that shifts. In a specific embodiment, reducing the total number of internal reflections increases the amount of photons that reach the photovoltaic region.

  In other embodiments, the present invention provides solar cell devices with improved sealing materials. The device has a first substrate member and a plurality of solar cell stripe shapes disposed on the first substrate member. The device has a sealing material that covers a portion of the first substrate member. The device has a first refractive index characterized by an encapsulating material and has a second substrate member having a plurality of optical concentrating elements thereon. In a preferred embodiment, the second substrate member is disposed on the plurality of photovoltaic stripe shapes so that at least one of the optical concentrating elements is at least one of the plurality of photovoltaic stripe shapes. Operatively coupled to one. Preferably, the plurality of light collecting elements are formed from at least the second substrate member. The device has a second refractive index characterized by the properties of the second substrate material. According to a preferred embodiment, the first refractive index of the encapsulating material is substantially equal to at least one photon from at least one of the optical concentrating elements to a portion of one photovoltaic stripe shape. It is compatible with the second refractive index, which facilitates the movement of.

  In other embodiments, the present invention provides a packaged solar cell assembly capable of independent operation to generate power. The packaged solar cell includes a hard front cover member having a surface area of the front cover and a plurality of condensing elements thereon. Each condensing element has a length that extends from a first portion of the surface area of the front cover to a second portion of the surface area of the front cover. Each condensing element has a width provided between the first part and the second part. Each condensing element has a first end that mates with the first width side and a second end provided on the second width side. The first end and the second end extend from the first and second portions of the surface area of the front cover. The plurality of condensing elements are configured to extend in parallel from the first part to the second part. In addition, the packaged solar cell assembly includes a plurality of photovoltaic stripe shapes, each arranged on a plurality of concentrating elements. Each of the plurality of photovoltaic strips has a certain length and width. Each photovoltaic stripe shape is coupled to at least one of the plurality of light collecting elements. The packaged solar cell assembly includes a bonding material provided between each photovoltaic stripe shape and each concentrating element to optically align the photovoltaic stripe shape to the concentrating element. Yes. The packaged solar cell assembly further includes a rigid back cover member. The back cover member has a plurality of support portions. The plurality of support portions respectively provide mechanical support to the plurality of photovoltaic stripe shapes. In addition, the packaged solar cell assembly has a rigid back cover to provide a sealed and sandwiched assembly so that the plurality of photovoltaic stripe shapes are substantially unaffected by moisture. A sealing area is included to mechanically fit the member to the rigid front cover. The sealed and sandwiched assembly can be handled such that the plurality of photovoltaic stripe shapes are substantially unaffected by mechanical loss.

  In another embodiment, the present invention provides a solar cell device. The solar cell device includes a back substrate member having a back surface region and an internal surface region. The solar cell device includes a plurality of photovoltaic stripe shapes that are disposed on the inner surface region and are spatially disposed in the same direction. Each photovoltaic stripe shape has characteristics of length and width. The solar cell device additionally includes a processed light collector that is operatively coupled to each of the plurality of photovoltaic stripe shapes. The processed light collecting device has a first surface and a second surface. In addition, the solar cell device includes a surface region provided on the first surface of the processed light collecting device. Furthermore, the solar cell device has an exit region provided on the second surface of the processed light collector field. In addition, the solar cell device has a geometric light collection characteristic depending on the ratio of the surface area to the exit area. The ratio has characteristics ranging from about 1.8 to about 4.5. The solar cell device also includes a polymer material as a feature of the processed light concentrator. The solar cell device additionally includes that the processed light concentrator has a refractive index greater than about 1.45, characterized by a polymer material. In addition, the solar cell device includes a bonding material that overlies each of the plurality of photovoltaic stripe shapes and that couples each of the plurality of photovoltaic regions with a respective concentrator contact. Furthermore, the solar cell device includes a refractive index greater than or equal to about 1.45, each characterized by a bonding material that couples a plurality of photovoltaic regions to a respective light collector.

  In yet another embodiment, the present invention provides a solar cell device. The solar cell device includes a back substrate member including a back surface region and an internal surface region. The back substrate member is characterized by a certain width. The solar cell device includes a plurality of photovoltaic stripe shapes that are arranged on the inner surface region and are spatially arranged in the same direction. Each photovoltaic stripe shape is characterized by a certain length and a certain width. In addition, the solar cell device includes a processed light concentrator, each coupled to a plurality of photovoltaic stripe shapes. The processed condensing device has a first surface and a second surface. Furthermore, the solar cell device includes an opening region provided on the first surface of the processed light collecting device. The solar cell device also includes an exit area provided on the second surface of the processed light collector. The solar cell device includes a first reflecting surface provided between the first part of the opening region and the first part of the outlet region. Further, the solar cell device includes a second reflecting surface provided between the second part of the opening region and the second part of the outlet region. In addition, the solar cell device has a geometric light collection characteristic characterized by the ratio of the opening area to the exit area. The ratio is characterized by a range of about 1.8 to about 4.5. In addition, the solar cell apparatus includes a polymeric material characterized by a processed light collection device that includes a surface region, an exit region, a first reflective surface, and a second reflective surface. Further, the solar cell device has a refractive index of 1.45 or more, which characterizes the polymer material of the processed light collecting device. In addition, the solar cell device has a refractive index of about 1.45, characterized by a concentrator of processed polymer material. Further, the solar cell device includes a binding material that covers the plurality of photovoltaic power generation stripes, and couples the plurality of photovoltaic regions to the respective light collecting devices. In addition, the solar cell device includes one or more recessed portions that face the first reflecting surface and the second reflecting surface, respectively. The one or more indentations are characterized to have a refractive index of about 1 to reflect one or more photons from the aperture region to the exit region.

  In accordance with a specific embodiment, the present invention provides a packaged solar cell assembly that can operate independently by generating power using a solar cell packaged with another solar cell assembly. The packaged solar cell assembly includes a rigid front cover member having a plurality of light collecting elements thereon. For example, the respective light collecting elements are arranged in parallel so as to extend from the first part of the front cover member to the second part. The plurality of light condensing elements are arranged in parallel in a stripe shape from the first part to the second part. Each condensing element has a concentration of at least 1.5.

  In addition, the solar cell assembly has a maximum spatial dimension of 8.5 inches or less between the first and second portions of the rigid front cover member. In addition, the solar cell assembly includes a plurality of photovoltaic features arranged respectively on a plurality of optical concentrating elements. Each of the plurality of photovoltaic strips has a certain width and length. Each of the plurality of photovoltaic stripe shapes is coupled to at least one of the plurality of light collecting elements.

  In another specific embodiment, the present invention provides a packaged solar cell assembly. The assembly includes a rigid front cover member having a plurality of light collecting elements thereon. Each condensing element is arranged substantially in parallel so as to extend from the first part to the second part of the front cover member. The plurality of condensing elements arranged substantially in parallel have a configuration in which they are arranged in a stripe shape from the first part to the second part. Each condensing element has an optical concentration of at least 1.5. The assembly has a spatial dimension of up to 8.5 inches between the first and second portions of the rigid front cover member. The assembly also has a plurality of photovoltaic stripe shapes, each arranged on a plurality of optical concentrating elements. The plurality of photovoltaic stripe-shaped objects have a certain width and length. The one or more first electrical members are respectively coupled to the first portions of the plurality of photovoltaic stripe shapes. The one or more second electrical members are respectively coupled to the second portions of the plurality of photovoltaic stripe shapes.

  In a specific embodiment, the solar cell assembly is also provided between each photovoltaic shape and each light concentrator, and optically couples the photovoltaic stripe shape and the light concentrator. It has a mechanical binding material. A rigid back cover member is also provided. The back cover member has a plurality of support portions. The plurality of support portions are provided to mechanically support the plurality of photovoltaic power generation stripe shapes, respectively. In order to provide a sealed and sandwiched assembly so that the plurality of photovoltaic strips are substantially unaffected by moisture, the sealing area is replaced with a rigid back cover member. Are connected. The sealed and sandwiched assembly can be handled so that the plurality of photovoltaic stripe shapes are substantially unaffected by mechanical loss. In order to substantially reflect light internally, each condensing element has a pair of surfaces whose surface finish is an effective value of 120 nm or less.

  Significant benefits are achieved by the method according to the invention over conventional techniques. For example, the technology of the present invention provides an easy-to-use process that relies on common technologies such as silicon materials (although other materials may be used). In addition, the method provides a process that is compliant with normal process technology without substantial modifications to normal equipment and processes. Preferably, the present invention is provided for the purpose of an improved solar cell that is less costly and easier to handle. Such solar cells use a plurality of photovoltaic regions encapsulated within one or more substrate structures, according to embodiments. In a preferred embodiment, the present invention provides a method using a plurality of photovoltaic stripe shapes and a completed solar cell structure without the use of modules or panel assemblies. In a preferred embodiment, one or more solar cells use less silica per unit area (eg, 80% or less, 50% or less) than regular solar cells. In a preferred embodiment, the present invention and the solar cell structure are lightweight and do not cause any harmful effects on a building structure or the like. That is, according to a specific embodiment, the weight is about the same as or slightly lighter than a normal solar cell. In a preferred embodiment, the solar cell of the present invention using a plurality of photovoltaic stripe shapes can be used as a replacement for a normal solar cell structure. According to embodiments, the alternative solar cell of the present invention can be used with conventional solar cell technology for effective implementation. Depending on the embodiment, one or more utilities may be achieved. These utilities are described in more detail throughout the specification and are described in particular below.

  Various objects, features and utilities of the present invention will be fully understood with reference to the following detailed description.

  In accordance with the present invention, techniques relating to solar energy are provided. In particular, the present invention provides a method and resulting apparatus manufactured from a plurality of photovoltaic regions provided on one or more substrate members. As a further detail, a method and resulting apparatus for manufacturing a photovoltaic region within a substrate member and coupled with a plurality of light concentrating elements is provided. By way of example only, the invention will not only be applied to solar panels, commonly referred to as modules, but it will be appreciated that the invention has a broader applicability.

About the manufacturing method of the solar cell structure according to embodiment of this invention, an outline is described as follows.
1. A first substrate member is prepared.
2. A plurality of solar cell stripe-shaped objects covering the first substrate member are prepared.
3. An optical elastomer that covers a part of the first substrate member (or alternatively, a surface portion of each photovoltaic stripe shape or a surface portion of a second substrate member combined with a plurality of photovoltaic stripe shapes) Prepare the materials.
4). The second substrate member including the plurality of optical condensing elements is aligned such that at least one of the plurality of photovoltaic stripe shapes is coupled to the at least one optical condensing element.
5. The first substrate member is coupled to the second substrate member so as to form a contact portion along a peripheral region of the first substrate member and the second substrate member.
6). The contact portion is sealed to form a single solar cell from the first substrate and the second substrate.
7). Place solar cells on the panel assembly. And
8). Perform other steps as needed.

  The order of the above steps provides a method according to an embodiment of the present invention. As indicated, this method uses a combination of steps including a method of forming a solar cell for a solar panel having a plurality of solar cells. Other methods are provided by adding steps, removing one or more steps, or providing a different order of one or more steps without departing from the scope of the claims herein. . As an example, a plurality of photovoltaic stripe shapes are bonded to a second substrate, and then a first substrate is provided and sealed to the second substrate. In a preferred embodiment, the sealing material is provided between the second substrate including a plurality of light collecting elements and the photovoltaic stripe shape. Further details of this method and the resulting structure can be found throughout the present specification and more particularly below.

  Referring now to FIG. 1, an enlarged view 10 of a solar cell structure according to an embodiment of the present invention is shown. This diagram is merely an example and should not unduly narrow the scope of the claims herein. Many variations, modifications, and alternatives will readily occur to those skilled in the art. As shown, an enlarged view of the structure of the solar cell device of the present invention including various elements is shown. This apparatus has a back cover member 101 including a front surface region and a back surface region. The back cover member also has a plurality of spatially arranged locations for electrical members such as bus bars and a plurality of photovoltaic regions. In addition, the back cover is provided as a support and for sealing without being bound by any shape. Of course, there can be other variations, modifications, and alternatives.

  In a preferred embodiment, the apparatus has a plurality of photovoltaic stripe shapes 105, each arranged as provided on the surface of the back cover member. In a preferred embodiment, the photovoltaic stripe shape corresponds to the accumulation region that spatially occupies all of the photovoltaic region that converts sunlight into electrical energy.

  The sealing material 115 covers a part of the back cover member. That is, the sealing material covers the plurality of solar cell stripes, the portion where the back cover is exposed, and the electrical member. In preferred embodiments, the encapsulant can be a single layer, multiple layers, or part of a layer, depending on the application. In other embodiments, as described, the sealing material is provided to cover a portion of the photovoltaic stripe shape or a surface area of the front cover member that is coupled to the plurality of photovoltaic stripe shapes. . Of course, there can be other variations, modifications, and alternatives.

  In a specific embodiment, the front cover member 121 is bonded to a sealing material. That is, the front cover member is disposed on at least the back cover, the bus bar, the plurality of photovoltaic stripe-shaped objects, the sealing material, and the sealing material for forming a multilayer structure including the front cover. ing. In a preferred embodiment, the front cover includes one or more concentrating elements that condense sunlight onto a plurality of photovoltaic stripe shapes (eg, enhanced per unit area). That is, each condensing element is individually associated with each of the at least one photovoltaic stripe shape.

  On the back cover, bus bar, photovoltaic stripe shape, sealing material, and front cover assembly, a contact area is provided at least along the peripheral area of the back cover member and the front cover member. Yes. The contact area is also provided so as to surround each stripe shape or a plurality of groups of stripe shapes according to the embodiment. The device has a sealing area formed at least on the contact area in order to form individual solar cells from the back cover member and the front cover member. The sealed area keeps the active area, including the photovoltaic stripes, constant so that it is not subject to weather, machine operation, environmental conditions, or other external effects that degrade the quality of the solar cell. . In addition, the sealing region and / or the sealing material (e.g., two substrates) protects certain optical properties related to the solar cell, and protects and holds the electrically conductive members such as bus bars and connecting materials. Of course, other benefits may also be achieved by using a sealing member structure in accordance with embodiments.

In a preferred embodiment, all photovoltaic spatial areas occupy a smaller spatial area than the surface area of the back cover. That is, all the photovoltaic power generation space regions use less silicon than a typical solar cell for a given solar cell size.
In a more preferred embodiment, all photovoltaic spatial areas occupy about 80% or less of the back cover surface for individual solar cells. According to the embodiment, the space area of photovoltaic power generation may occupy 70% or less, 60% or less, or 50% or less of the surface portion of the back cover. Of course, there may be other percentages not listed according to other embodiments. Here, the terms “back cover member” and “front cover member” are given for illustration, and according to a specific embodiment, a specific form related to spatial arrangement is claimed. The range is not limited. Further details of the various elements in the solar cell are found throughout the specification and are described in particular below.

  In a specific embodiment, the present invention provides a single operation packaged solar cell assembly that generates power using the packaged solar cell assembly. The packaged solar cell assembly includes a rigid front cover member having a surface area of the front cover and a plurality of light collecting elements thereon. Depending on the application, the rigid front cover member is made from a variety of materials. For example, the rigid front cover is made from a polymer material. As another example, the rigid front cover is made of a transparent polymer material with a reflectivity of 1.4, 1.42, or higher. According to the example, the rigid front cover has a suitable range of Young's modulus. Each condensing element has a length extending from the first part to the second part of the surface area of the front cover. Each condensing element has a width provided between the first portion and the second portion. Each condensing element has a first end connected to the first width side and a second end provided on the second width side. The first end and the second end extend from a first portion of the surface area of the front cover to a second portion of the surface area of the front cover. The plurality of light collecting elements have a structure extending in parallel from the first part to the second part.

  It will be appreciated that the embodiments can be varied in many ways. For example, in the present embodiment, a first electrode member coupled to each first region of the plurality of photovoltaic stripe shapes, and a second region of each of the plurality of photovoltaic stripe shapes. The second electrode member is further included.

  As another example, a solar cell assembly includes a first electrode member coupled to a first region of each of a plurality of photovoltaic stripe shapes, and a second electrode of each of the plurality of photovoltaic stripe shapes. A second electrode member coupled to the region is included. The first electrode includes a first portion projecting from the first portion of the sandwiched assembly and a second portion projecting from the second portion of the sandwiched assembly. A second electrode material including a portion is included.

  In yet another specific embodiment, the present invention provides a solar cell device. The solar cell device includes a back substrate member that constitutes a back surface region and an internal surface region. Depending on the application, the back substrate member is made from a variety of materials. For example, the back member is characterized by a polymer material.

  In yet another embodiment, the present invention provides a solar cell device having a back substrate member. The back substrate member includes a back surface area and an internal surface area. The back substrate member is characterized by its width. For example, the back substrate member is characterized by a length of about 8 inches or less. By way of example, the back substrate member is characterized by a width of about 8 inches or less and a length of 8 inches or more.

  FIG. 2 is a schematic diagram showing the structure of the back cover member 100 according to the embodiment of the present invention. This diagram is merely an example, which should not unduly narrow the scope of the claims herein. Many variations, modifications, and alternatives will occur to those skilled in the art. As illustrated, the back cover has a bottom portion 205 including a plurality of recesses 209 and a surface portion 201. Each of the recesses corresponds to a location that has space for the photovoltaic material according to a specific embodiment. In a specific embodiment, these recesses are arranged as mechanical and physical locations for photovoltaic stripe shapes or photovoltaic material regions. The portion occupied by the recess is surrounded by a peripheral portion 203 having an end 211 protruding along the Y direction slightly higher than the internal recess according to a specific embodiment. Of course, there can be other variations, modifications, and alternatives.

  Referring back to FIG. 2, the back cover also includes one or more conductive materials, such as bus bar 207. Each bus bar can connect a plurality of stripe-shaped objects to each other in parallel or in series, or a combination of these electrical configurations. As shown in the figure, each bus bar is provided so as to be orthogonal to the plurality of recesses. That is, each recess is along the Z direction and each bus bar is along the X direction, according to a specific embodiment. It will be appreciated that the busbar is merely illustrative and not global. That is, there may be other bus bars (not shown) that are parallel to the respective recesses, or have an angle with respect to the respective recesses, or a combination of these configurations. Additional conductive member details may be found on the Gibson Provisional patent application, incorporated herein by reference. Of course, there can be other variations, modifications, and alternatives.

  According to embodiments, the back cover is made from any suitable material or combination of materials and layers. The back cover can be formed using a polymer-containing material, according to a specific embodiment. The polymeric material is a non-conductive material, according to a preferred embodiment. Depending on the application, the back cover may be monolayer or multilayer and is preferably optically transparent. In a preferred embodiment, the back cover is made of a mold or machined polymer material to form a plurality of recesses, or other preferred properties. Of course, there can be other variations, modifications, and alternatives.

  For example, the rigid back cover member can be made from a variety of materials. For example, the back cover can be made from a polymer material, glass, or other suitable material. The hard back cover has a suitable Young's modulus. The plurality of support portions mechanically support a plurality of continuous photovoltaic power generation stripe-shaped objects. In addition, the packaged solar cell assembly is mechanically coupled to provide a sealed sandwich assembly that holds a plurality of photovoltaic stripe shapes to be substantially unaffected by moisture. And a sealing region for joining the hard back cover member to the hard front cover member. For example, in order to prevent erosion and to facilitate the operation of the solar cell device, there is less steam than a predetermined amount in parts per million. The sealed sandwich assembly can be addressed to hold a plurality of photovoltaic stripe shapes without substantial mechanical loss. Merely by way of example, mechanical loss is the loss of one or more photovoltaic stripe shapes.

  A detailed view of the back cover is given with reference to FIG. 2A. As shown, a top view 210 of the back cover is shown. Other figures are also given. For example, a cross-section “AA” 220 is illustrated. This cross section AA is along the region of the busbar member, according to a specific embodiment. Detail views “F” 280 and “E” 260 are also shown. Detailed view F corresponds to the peripheral region or end of the back cover. Similarly, the detailed view F corresponds to the peripheral region or the end of the other back cover. A cross section “BB” 230 and a cross section “CC” 240 are also shown. The cross sections B-B and C-C relate to the length of the recess that continues along the back cover. A detailed view "G" 250, which is in section CC, is also shown. Each recess 251 corresponds to a location for a bus bar member, according to a specific embodiment. Another cross section “DD” 270 of the top view 210 is also illustrated as a back cover. Of course, there can be other variations, modifications, and alternatives. Further details of the method and structure of the present invention are found throughout the present specification, particularly below.

  FIG. 3 is a schematic diagram 300 illustrating a method of attaching a plurality of photovoltaic stripe shaped objects 105 to the back cover structure 100 according to an embodiment of the present invention. This diagram is merely an example, which should not unduly narrow the scope of the claims herein. Many variations, modifications, and alternatives will occur to those skilled in the art. As shown in the figure, the photovoltaic stripe-shaped objects are arranged in continuous recesses. Each photovoltaic strip shape has a predetermined width, length, and depth so as to fit within the recessed portion or other physical positions according to the embodiment.

  In a specific embodiment, each photovoltaic stripe shape is made from a silicon-containing material that includes a light energy conversion device. That is, each stripe shape is made from single crystal and / or polycrystalline silicon with suitable properties to convert light or electromagnetic radiation into electrical energy, according to a specific embodiment. An example of such a stripe-shaped product is Silver Cell (registered trademark) manufactured by Origin Energy of Australia, and others are possible. In other preferred embodiments, the stripe shape can be provided from a common solar cell. That is, the stripe-shaped object is obtained by dicing a general solar cell (eg, sawing, scribe break), or the solar cell is appropriately designed according to a specific embodiment. Depending on the embodiment, a typical solar cell is either a back-connection cell manufactured by SunPower Corp (address 3939 North First Street, San Jose, California 95134) or BP Solar International Inc., Shell Solar, (Headquarters, The Hague), Q -CeIIs AG of Germany, SolarWorld AG, (Kurt-Schumacher-Str. 12-14, 53113 Bonn / Germany), Sharp Corporation, (Osaka, Japan), other suns such as those manufactured by Kyocera Solar Inc., etc. It is a battery. As another example, the stripe-shaped object or region of the photovoltaic material includes other semiconductor materials including semiconductor elements described in the periodic table, polymer materials having photovoltaic properties, or combinations thereof. Or any other suitable material. Of course, there can be other variations, modifications, and alternatives.

  In a specific embodiment, a packaged solar cell assembly includes a plurality of photovoltaic stripe shapes arranged in series on a plurality of concentrating elements. Each of the plurality of photovoltaic strips has a width and a length. Each photovoltaic stripe shape is coupled to at least one of the plurality of light collecting elements. A packaged solar cell assembly is additionally provided between each photovoltaic stripe shape and each concentrating element to optically couple the photovoltaic stripe shape and the concentrating element, Contains binding material.

  In other specific embodiments, the solar cell device also includes a plurality of photovoltaic stripe shapes disposed on the inner surface region and spatially disposed in the same direction. . Each photovoltaic strip shape is characterized by its width and length. By way of example only, each photovoltaic stripe shape includes a plurality of n-type regions and p-type regions. Each p-type region is coupled to at least one n-type region. As an example, the photovoltaic stripe shape is made from a silicon material.

  As an example, the solar cell device includes a plurality of photovoltaic stripe shapes disposed on the inner surface region and spatially disposed in the same direction. Each photovoltaic strip shape is characterized by its width and length. In addition, the solar cell device includes a processed light concentrator, each coupled with a plurality of photovoltaic stripe shapes. The processed light collecting device has a first surface and a second surface. Furthermore, the solar cell device includes an opening region provided in the first surface of the processed light collecting device. The solar cell device also includes an exit area provided on the second side of the processed light collector.

  FIG. 4 is a schematic diagram 400 illustrating a back cover and photovoltaic stripe shape assembled according to an embodiment of the present invention. This diagram is merely an example, which should not unduly narrow the scope of the claims herein. Many variations, modifications, and alternatives will occur to those skilled in the art. As shown in the figure, each photovoltaic stripe-shaped object is provided at a position on a continuous recess or on the back cover. In a specific embodiment, each stripe-shaped object is preferably designed to be mechanically safe on the recess. The first group of stripe-shaped objects may be combined with at least one bus bar, and the second group of stripe-shaped objects may be combined with other bus bars. Each stripe is connected to at least two bus bars or similar members to provide an electrical circuit for supplying power. Alternatively, according to other embodiments of the present invention, a back cover may be provided on the assembled front cover and photovoltaic stripe shaped structure. Of course, there can be other variations, modifications, and alternatives.

  FIG. 5 is a schematic diagram 500 illustrating a method comprising a sealing material 115 covering a back cover and photovoltaic stripe shape assembled in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention. This diagram is merely an example and should not unduly narrow the scope of the claims herein. Many variations, modifications and alternatives will occur to those skilled in the art. As shown, according to a specific embodiment, the sealing material is a single layer or multiple layers. In embodiments, the encapsulating material may include a liquid material that surrounds and encloses a portion of each photovoltaic strip and the bus bar member.

  According to embodiments, the sealing material is made from a material suitable for the desired optical, electrical and physical properties. The optical properties are preferably an optical elastomeric material that is initially liquid and becomes a solid material upon processing. Elastomer materials have suitable temperature and optical properties. That is, the refractive index of the elastomeric material is substantially matched to the front cover, according to a specific embodiment. In a specific embodiment, the encapsulant material adapts to a first coefficient of thermal expansion of the plurality of photovoltaic stripe shapes on the first substrate member and also includes a second heat associated with the second substrate. Adapted to the expansion coefficient. In a specific embodiment, the encapsulating material facilitates the transfer of photons between one of the light collection elements and one of the plurality of photovoltaic stripe shapes. The sealing material can act as a barrier material, an electrically insulating structure, a glue layer, and other suitable properties. By way of example, the term “elastomer” should be broadly interpreted by those skilled in the art. Of course, there are other variations, modifications, and alternatives.

  According to an embodiment, the sealed and sandwiched assembly can be handled such that a plurality of photovoltaic stripe shapes are retained, with substantially no mechanical damage. For example, the sealed area includes an ultrasonic (eg, 15 to 30 kHz) weld. As another example, the sealing region is provided by a vibration welding portion, a thermoforming portion, a chemical treatment forming portion, a glue portion, an adhesive portion, or a light irradiation portion (eg, laser). According to an embodiment, the sealed and sandwiched assembly has a total thickness of 7 mm or less. In a specific embodiment, the sealed and sandwiched assembly has a width in the range of about 100 mm to about 210 mm and a length in the range of about 100 mm to about 210 mm. In a specific embodiment, the sealed and sandwiched assembly can have a length of about 300 mm or more. Of course, there can be other variations, modifications, and alternatives.

  FIG. 6 is a schematic diagram 600 of a back cover, photovoltaic stripe shape, and sealing material assembled according to an embodiment of the present invention. This diagram is merely an example, which should not unduly narrow the scope of the claims herein. Those skilled in the art will find many variations, modifications, and alternatives. As shown in the figure, the sealing material is formed so as to cover the surface of the photovoltaic stripe-shaped object provided in the recess and to cover the portion of the bus bar member. The other portion 601 of the bus bar member protrudes from the periphery of the back cover member including the photovoltaic stripe shape and the sealing material according to a specific embodiment. Further details of the method and structure are described herein and more particularly below.

  As an example, the photovoltaic stripe-shaped object is continuously arranged on a plurality of optical condensing elements. Each of the plurality of photovoltaic strips has a width and a length. Each photovoltaic strip shape is coupled to at least one of the plurality of light collecting elements. For example, each photovoltaic stripe shape converts light directly into current. As another example, the photovoltaic stripe shape is made from a material selected from single crystal silicon, polycrystalline silicon, amorphous silicon, CIS, CdTe, or nanostructured material. Of course, there can be other variations, modifications, and alternatives.

  FIG. 7 is a schematic diagram 700 illustrating a method of assembling a front cover that covers a back cover, a photovoltaic stripe shape, and a sealing material in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention. This diagram is merely an example and should not unduly narrow the scope of the claims herein. Many variations, modifications, and alternatives will occur to those skilled in the art. As shown, according to a specific embodiment, the front cover 701 is aligned with a partially assembled back cover and photovoltaic strip shape. In a preferred embodiment, the front cover includes a plurality of condensing elements 705 that are spatially arranged to be parallel to the respective recesses and stripe-shaped objects. Each condensing element has a length along the Z direction according to a specific embodiment. Further details of the front cover including the light collecting elements are described herein, particularly below.

  Depending on the application, the front cover member can be implemented in various ways. For example, the rigid front cover member is made from a polymer material, a glass material, a multilayer material, and the like. According to embodiments, the rigid front cover member is a member formed by pouring, transferring, compressing, or extruding methods. For example, a hard front cover member has a characteristic that the refractive index is 1.4 or more. According to an embodiment, the rigid front cover material is optically transparent. For example, the hard front cover member is provided by a material having a light transmittance of 88% or more. As another example, the hard front cover member has a light absorption rate of 4% or less. Of course, there can be other variations, modifications, and alternatives.

  In a specific embodiment, the solar cell assembly optically couples the photovoltaic stripe shape and the light collecting element, and an optical coupling material provided between each photovoltaic stripe shape and the light collecting element. have. For example, the optical coupling material can be liquid (as the starting material), or sticky, or fluid (eg, solid, liquid), or film-shaped, or rotationally formed, coated, vapor deposited, sprayed, applied, or In addition, one or more multi-layer shapes formed by a suitable technique. As another example, the optical coupling material has a light transmission property of 88% or more, 92% or more, a refractive index of 1.42 or more, and ultraviolet light stability. According to an embodiment, the optical coupling material has an optimal elastic modulus that allows for mechanical and / or thermal deformation between the substrate and the photovoltaic stripe feature. Of course, there can be other variations, modifications, and alternatives.

  FIG. 8 is a more detailed view showing a plurality of light concentrating elements on the front cover 701 in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention. This diagram is merely an example, which should not unduly narrow the scope of the claims herein. Many variations, modifications, and alternatives will occur to those skilled in the art. As shown in the figure, each light collecting element includes a trapezoidal member so as to have a stripe-shaped configuration. Each trapezoidal member has a bottom surface coupled to a pyramidal portion coupled to the top surface. The top surface is defined by a surface 809 that is a common area of the front cover. Each member is spatially arranged and parallel to each other according to a specific embodiment. Here, “trapezoidal” or “pyramid shape” includes being implemented in a straight line, a curved line, or a combination of a straight line and a curved wall according to an embodiment of the present invention. According to embodiments, the light collecting element can be on the front cover or incorporated into the front cover and / or can be matched with the front cover. Further details of the front cover with concentrating elements are described in particular below.

  In a specific embodiment, the solar cell device includes a processed light concentrator coupled with each of the plurality of photovoltaic stripe shapes. The processed light collecting device has a first surface and a second surface. In addition, the solar cell device includes an open area provided on the first surface of the processed light collecting device. Merely by way of example, the light concentrator includes a first side and a second side. Depending on the application, the first aspect is characterized by a roughness with an effective value of about 100 nm or about 120 nm. The second aspect is characterized by a roughness with an effective value of about 100 nm or about 120 nm. For example, roughness is characterized by a dimension value of about 10% of the light wavelength coming from the aperture region. Depending on the application, the back member can have a pyramidal shape.

  As an example, the solar cell device includes an exit region provided on the second surface of the processed concentrator. In addition, the solar cell device has a geometric light collection characteristic given by the ratio of the opening area to the exit area. This ratio can be characterized in the range of about 1.8 to 4.5. The solar cell device also includes a polymer material featuring a processed light concentrator. The solar cell device additionally includes a refractive index of 1.45 or more, characterized in that the processed light collecting device is a polymer material. In addition, the solar cell device includes a bonding material formed so as to cover the plurality of photovoltaic stripe shapes, and a bonding material formed so as to bond the plurality of photovoltaic regions with the light collecting device. Including. For example, the bonding material is characterized by an appropriate Young's modulus for each of the plurality of photovoltaic stripe shapes, the respective concentrator and the plurality of photovoltaic regions.

  Merely by way of example, a solar cell device is characterized by a material that combines a photovoltaic region and a light concentrator and includes a refractive index of about 1.45 or greater. Depending on the application, the polymer material is characterized by a suitable coefficient of thermal expansion to withstand changes due to the thermal expansion of the elements of the solar cell device.

  In one application example, the plurality of light collecting elements have a light incident area (A1) and a light exit area (A2), and A2 / A1 is 0.8 or less. As a simple example, the plurality of condensing elements have a light incident area (A1) and a light exit area (A2), A2 / A1 is 0.8 or less, and a plurality of photovoltaic stripe shapes are light. Connected opposite the exit area. In a more preferred embodiment, A2 / A1 is 0.5 or less. For example, each condensing element has a height of 7 mm or less. In a specific embodiment, the sealed and sandwiched assembly has a width in the range of about 100 mm to about 210 mm and a length in the range of about 100 mm to about 210 mm. . In a specific embodiment, the sealed and sandwiched assembly has even a length of 300 mm or more. As another example, each condensing element has a pair of surfaces. In a specific embodiment, each surface has a surface finish with an effective value of about 100 nm or less or about 120 nm or less. Of course, there can be other variations, modifications, and alternatives.

  Referring to FIG. 8A, a front cover is illustrated using a side view 701 similar to FIG. The front cover also has a top view 801. A cross-sectional view 820 of “BB” is also illustrated. A detailed view “A” of at least two concentrating elements 830 is also shown. There may be other variations, modifications, and alternatives according to embodiments.

  According to an embodiment, the light collecting element is made of a suitable material. The concentrating element is made of other optically transparent materials including polymers, glass, or combinations thereof. The optimum material is preferably one that has atmospheric stability and can withstand ambient temperatures, weather, and other outdoor conditions. The concentrating element also includes an anti-reflective coated portion for improved characteristics. The coating is used to improve the resistance of the light collecting element. Of course, there can be other variations, modifications, and alternatives.

  In a specific embodiment, the solar cell device includes a first reflective side surface provided between the first portion of the open area and the first portion of the exit area. Merely by way of example, the first reflective side includes a first polished surface composed of a portion of polymer material. For some applications, the first reflective side surface is characterized by a surface roughness of effective value of 120 nm or less.

  Further, the solar cell device includes a second reflective side surface provided between the second part of the opening region and the second part of the outlet region. For example, the second reflecting surface has a second polished surface of a portion made of a polymer material. In some applications, the second reflective side surface is characterized by a surface roughness of effective value of 120 nm or less. As an example, the first reflective side and the second reflective side are provided for internally reflecting all of the one or more photons provided from the aperture region.

  In addition, the solar cell device includes a geometric concentration factor given by the ratio of the open area to the exit area. This ratio is characterized in the range of about 1.8 to about 4.5. In addition, the solar cell device includes a polymer material characterized by a processed concentrator that includes an open region, an exit region, a first reflective side, and a second reflective side. As an example, the polymeric material can be free from damage caused by ultraviolet radiation.

  Furthermore, the solar cell device has a refractive index of about 1.45 or more, which is characterized as a light collecting device in which a polymer material is processed. Furthermore, the solar cell device includes a binding material which is formed so as to cover the plurality of photovoltaic stripe-shaped objects, and which respectively couples the plurality of photovoltaic regions and the respective light collecting devices. The solar cell device additionally includes one or more recessed areas facing the first reflective side and the second reflective side. The one or more indentations have a feature with a refractive index of about 1 to reflect one or more photons from the aperture region to the exit region.

  FIG. 9 is a schematic diagram illustrating an integrated solar cell structure 900 according to an embodiment of the present invention. As shown, according to the embodiment, the solar cell structure includes a back cover, a plurality of stripe-shaped objects, a sealing material, a front cover, a light collecting element, and other features. In accordance with the present invention, the bus bar portion is exposed for electrical connection with other solar cells or peripheral circuits within the solar cell panel or module. Further details of the structure of the present solar cell are described herein, especially below.

  Referring to FIG. 9A, various views illustrating an integrated solar cell structure are provided. As shown, the combined view includes a front view 910 having a plurality of cross-sectional views including at least AA, BB, and EE. Details of A-A 920 are shown along the length direction of the photovoltaic stripe shape. The details of B-B 930 are shown as being perpendicular to the photovoltaic stripe shape. Also shown is end C940, which is a detail of BB. As for the end portion, a concave portion, a photovoltaic power generation stripe-shaped object, a sealing material, and a condensing device or a condensing element are shown. A detailed view E-E950 is shown along the end parallel to the bus bar. Of course, there can be other variations, modifications, and alternatives.

  In a preferred embodiment, the method and resulting apparatus includes a back surface that couples with a front cover that forms a contact area along a peripheral area or other suitable area, including one or more photovoltaic areas of photovoltaic material. It has a cover. In other embodiments, sealing is performed using a sealing material, a similar material, or a combination thereof. In this method, the contact area is sealed to form individual solar cells from the first substrate and the second substrate, and the solar cells are placed in the panel assembly. According to the embodiment, the cover is sealed by ultrasonic welding, vibration welding, heat treatment, chemical treatment, glue material, radiation process (thermal laser irradiation), or a combination thereof. In a specific embodiment, the sealing technique uses a laser light source called IRAM 200 or IRAM 300 manufactured by Branson Ultrasonics Corporation or the like. Of course, there can be other variations, modifications, and alternatives. Further details of the method and structure of the present invention are described throughout the present specification and more particularly below.

[Example]
To demonstrate the implementation of the method and structure, by way of example, a detailed method and structure are given. These examples are merely illustrative and do not unduly narrow the scope of the claims herein. Many variations, modifications and alternatives will occur to those skilled in the art. These examples may be read with reference to other descriptions given for clarity. Examples of these are given below.

In general, the design and power generation efficiency of the solar cell method and structure is clarified by using a combination of elements and structures. By way of example, the light concentrator of the present invention is limited to the features of photovoltaic materials according to embodiments. Our inventive concentrator reduced the cost associated with high condensing system complexity and achieved low concentrating ratios (eg, 2x, 3x, 4x). In a preferred embodiment, for a non-tracking solar panel embodiment, the low concentration ratio for the present concentrator is about 3 times or less. The method and system have the advantage of enabling non-tracking, increasing cost reduction and reliability, according to a specific embodiment. In order to make the concentrator efficient for low-cost manufacturing, desirable concentrators contain a small amount of polymer material. The small amount can be achieved by reducing the size of the concentrator as much as possible so that a photovoltaic strip shape of a predetermined shape and a predetermined size smaller than a general solar cell is possible. The size of the condensing device is so small that it can be reduced in weight, is easy to manufacture, and reduces material costs. And it can be handled by humans and machines. By way of example only, the design and method of the light concentrator is described herein, especially below. That is, one or more of the following features are incorporated into the solar cell methods and devices of the present invention in accordance with embodiments of the present invention.
1. Through a design that improves and / or maximizes the efficiency of the concentrator,
2. Through the design of a non-tracking system that adapts from east to west,
3. Utilize all internal reflection (TIR) to maximize efficiency,
4). A concentrator made of a solid material of high refractive index for desirable internal reflection,
5. 5. The higher the refractive index, the more the light collecting device collects diffuse light and angleless light. 6. Optical concentration ratio is a function of the aperture associated with the outlet. Efficient concentration is always less than optical concentration due to system loss (ratio of optical focusing to efficient focusing is the efficiency of the collector)
8). 8. Concentrator can be made from glass or polymer 9. Concentrator material carries as much light as possible to photovoltaic material A higher refractive index material is desirable11. Any material with a higher refractive index may be used,
(1) Topas (trademark) (Dow Chemical)
(2) Cleartuf (trademark) (M & G polymers)
(3) Lexan (trademark) (GE Advanced Materials)
(4) Makrolon (trademark) (manufactured by Bayer Materials Science)
(5) Caliber (trademark) (Dow Chemical)
(6) Tefzel (trademark) (DuPont)
(7) Acrylic materials (8) lexiglas® acrylic resin color technology Altuglas International, Highland
Not limited to.

  According to an embodiment, one or more of these features are used. Of course, there can be other variations, modifications, and alternatives. Further inventive methods and structures are given below.

In a specific embodiment, a method for collecting light is described below with respect to a cross-sectional view of the double concentrator referenced in FIG. 10 showing the condensing method and structure.
1. Light that is directly incident directly on the aperture surface strikes the photovoltaic material directly without substantial reflection. This is indicated by black light rays.
2. Light incident on the exit surface in a state perpendicular to the opening surface hits the side surface of the light collecting device and is reflected in the direction of the photovoltaic material with several reflections. This is indicated by a red ray.
3. Light incident at an angle to the aperture plane is refracted first. The number of refractions depends on the refractive index of the material of the concentrator and the refractive index of the material outside the concentrator. The light then captures the side of the concentrator, and if the angle of incidence is less than the critical angle, the light reflects in the direction of the photovoltaic material with several reflections. This is indicated by a green ray.
4). Light incident at an angle to the aperture plane is refracted first. The number of refractions depends on the refractive index of the material of the concentrator and the refractive index of the material outside the concentrator. The light then captures the side of the collector, and if the angle of incidence is greater than the critical angle, the light exits the collector. This is indicated by the orange rays.

As indicated above, by using the light concentrating structure and method of the present invention for solar cells, the method of the present invention achieves certain benefits. Other features are incorporated according to embodiments. That is, it will be shown below that in a specific embodiment, it is true that all internal reflection situations are achieved.
1. The refractive material has a higher refractive index than the incident material on the outside.
Air and vacuum typically have a refractive index of about 1. Optical polymer and glass concentrators typically have a refractive index greater than about 1.5 (eg, 1.48, 1.49, 1.5).
2. The light ray strikes the surface at an angle that is less than the critical angle.
3. The surface of TER has a smooth surface finish and is not affected by all foreign matter contamination such as dust, steam, fingerprints etc.

From Snell's law, the critical angle is defined as follows:
[Equation 1]
θcrit = sine ^-1 (n _r / n _i ) = inv-sine (n _r / n _i )
Here, n _r is the refractive index of the refractive material, and n is the refractive index of the incident material. And
n _i is the refractive index of the incident material.

  A certain simulation was performed, defining the shape of the side walls and the depth of the collector. The figure of the present invention shows a straight wall according to a specific embodiment. However, the efficiency can be improved by combining curved walls, straight lines and curved walls. According to example embodiments, the depth or sidewall shape that is improved or optimized depends on the light collection ratio.

As a desirable design strategy, the solar cell and method should mimic a substrate that is as close to common single crystal silicon as possible. That is, a general solar cell is
Made by SunPower Corp (3939 North First Street, San Jose, California 95134). Others include BP Solar International Inc., Shell Solar, (Headquarters, The Hague), Q-CeIIs AG of Germany, SolarWorld AG (Kurt-Schumacher-Str. 12-14, 53113 Bonn / Germany), Sharp Corporation, ( Osaka, Japan), Kyocera Solar Inc., etc. In addition, the solar cell and / or the stripe shape may be manufactured by a thin film or nanotechnology. By way of example, according to embodiments of thin film processes (e.g., suitable materials including CIS, CdTe, etc., combinations thereof, etc.), the solar cell and method of the present invention is in a form consistent with certain features of a typical solar cell , Fit, function. In this example, the solar cell shape should be square, as thin as possible (eg 3 mm or less, 7 mm or less), as light as possible, and have other favorable characteristics. Of course, there can be other variations, modifications, and alternatives.

As an example, typical solar cells are 125 mm ² and 150 mm ² . Furthermore, as a large size, it is expected to what is used up in the future 300mm ^2. However, for some small module products, small solar cells are desirable. A 50 mm ² solar cell may be desirable for a low power module for high voltage, battery charging. Of course, there can be other variations, modifications, and alternatives.

  The thickness of the light collecting device functions as the width of the photovoltaic material. Narrower solar cells allow for smaller exit sizes, smaller apertures, and narrow light collectors. However, narrow solar cells often require more solar cells to handle and fill some battery area that increases costs. For some products, a very narrow solar cell may be required. In this embodiment, the width of the photovoltaic power generation is 0.5 mm or less. For other applications, width may not be a problem, but by reducing handling, costs can be reduced. In this case, the width should be 3mm. According to embodiments, solar cells use various photovoltaic stripe shapes.

In a specific embodiment, the present invention provides a solar cell using a plurality of photovoltaic stripe shapes or photovoltaic units. In order to support the type, suitability, and function of the solar cell of the present invention, the photovoltaic stripe shape has several features as follows.
1. Physical dimensions (of photovoltaic stripes) Width 0.5mm to 3mm, preferably 1mm
Length 50mm to 150mm, preferably 125mm or 210mm or 300mm
Thickness 20 μm to 100 μm, or 50 μm to 400 μm
2. 2. Positive and negative electrical contacts Anti-reflective coating4. 4. Made from single crystal silicon, polycrystalline silicon, silicon germanium alloy etc. 5. Power generation efficiency is 15% or more under normal test conditions. Open circuit voltage is between 0.6V and 0.7V (STC)
STC: Radiation level is 1000W / m2, spectrum is AM1.5, Thai-Hanyang battery temperature is 25 ° C

  The present invention provides various advantages with respect to solar cells. For example, the present invention provides a cost advantage and energy efficient solution for solar cell systems. There are other benefits as well. By way of example, the method and structure of the present invention uses less photovoltaic material to package a plurality of photovoltaic stripe shapes that couple to a plurality of successive light collecting elements that increase the efficiency of the photovoltaic stripe shape. That, provide. The packaged assembly operates independently and can withstand extreme influences and / or other environments in accordance with a preferred embodiment. The package is easy to handle and used alone or in conjunction with other packaged solar cells in a large module connecting each solar cell in a parallel and / or series configuration, according to a specific embodiment. . In a specific embodiment, the package configuration can be modified and designed using a selected shape and size that can be customized or specific to each product. In a preferred embodiment, the method and structure of the present invention (including batteries and modules) requires less specification material and may be easier to manufacture than typical solar cell processes. In certain embodiments, the present invention has shown a relative efficiency of greater than about 80% relative to the original solar cell module. According to an embodiment, one or more benefits are achieved.

  It will be understood that the examples and embodiments described herein are for illustrative purposes only, and that various modifications and variations may be associated with those skilled in the art within the scope of the application and the claims.

1 is a schematic diagram showing a solar cell structure according to an embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 1 is a schematic diagram of a back cover structure according to an embodiment of the present invention. FIG. FIG. 4 is a detailed view of a back cover structure according to an embodiment of the present invention. It is a schematic diagram which shows the method of attaching a some photovoltaic strip shape object to a back cover structure according to embodiment of this invention. It is a schematic diagram which shows the assembly of a back cover and a photovoltaic stripe shape object according to embodiment of this invention. FIG. 6 is a schematic diagram illustrating a method of providing a sealing material covering an assembly of a back cover and a photovoltaic stripe shape in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention. It is a schematic diagram which shows the assembly of a back cover, a photovoltaic stripe shape thing, and a sealing material according to embodiment of this invention. FIG. 6 is a schematic diagram illustrating a method of assembling a front cover that covers an assembly of a back cover, a photovoltaic stripe shape, and an encapsulant according to an embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 6 is a further detailed view showing a plurality of light collecting elements on the front cover, in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 6 is a further detailed view showing a plurality of light collecting elements on a front cover, in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention. It is a schematic diagram which shows the assembly of a solar cell structure according to embodiment of this invention. FIG. 4 is a schematic diagram showing further details of an assembly of solar cell structures according to an embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 3 is a schematic view of a concentrator assembly according to an embodiment of the present invention.

Claims (99)

A solar cell manufacturing method different from a solar panel,
Providing a first substrate member having a plurality of photovoltaic stripes thereon;
Providing an optical elastomer material covering a portion of the first substrate member;
A second substrate member having a plurality of optical concentrating elements is aligned, and at least one of the optical concentrating elements is operatively coupled to at least one of the plurality of photovoltaic stripe shapes. ,
In order to form a contact region along the peripheral region of the first substrate member and the second substrate member, the first substrate member is coupled to the second substrate member, and the first substrate and the second substrate member are further combined. Sealing the contact area to form individual solar cells from the substrate;
A method for manufacturing a solar cell.   The method of claim 1, wherein the optical elastomeric material is liquid.   The method of claim 1, further comprising treating the optical elastomeric material such that the state of the optical elastomeric material changes from the first state to the second state.   The method of claim 1, further comprising the sealing method being provided by ultrasonic welding, vibration welding, heat treatment, chemical treatment, adhesive material, or irradiation treatment.   The method of claim 1, wherein a plurality of photovoltaic stripe shapes are provided in each of the plurality of recesses on the first substrate member.   The method of claim 1, wherein each stripe feature comprises a silicon-containing material.   The method of claim 1, wherein the first substrate member comprises a polymer-containing material.   The method of claim 1, wherein the first substrate member comprises a non-conductive material.   The method of claim 1, wherein the first substrate member comprises a multilayer material.   The method of claim 1, wherein the first substrate member is optically transparent.   The method of claim 1, wherein individual solar cells are provided in the panel. A solar cell manufacturing method comprising:
Providing a first substrate member having a plurality of photovoltaic regions thereon;
Providing a sealing material covering a part of the first substrate member;
Aligning the second substrate member with the first substrate member;
Coupling the first substrate member to the second substrate member so as to provide a peripheral region along the peripheral region of the first substrate member and the second substrate member;
Sealing the contact area using at least a laser irradiation process to form individual solar cell structures from the first substrate member and the second substrate member;
The manufacturing method characterized by the above-mentioned.   The method of claim 12, wherein the encapsulating material comprises a liquid optical elastomeric material.   The method of claim 12, further comprising treating the sealing material to change the state of the sealing material from the first state to the second state. A first substrate member;
A plurality of photovoltaic stripe shapes disposed on the first substrate member;
An optical elastomer material covering a portion of the first substrate member;
A plurality of optical concentrating elements thereon, wherein at least one of the optical concentrating elements is operably coupled to at least one of the plurality of photovoltaic stripe shapes A second substrate member disposed on the photovoltaic stripe-shaped object of
A contact area along a peripheral area of the first substrate member and the second substrate member;
A sealing region disposed in the contact region to form individual solar cells from the first substrate member and the second substrate member;
A solar cell device comprising:   The device of claim 15, wherein the optical elastomeric material is liquid.   The device of claim 15, wherein the optical elastomeric material is a solid.   The device according to claim 15, wherein a plurality of photovoltaic stripe shapes are provided in the plurality of recesses on the first substrate.   The device of claim 15, wherein each stripe feature comprises a silicon-containing material.   The device of claim 15, wherein the first substrate member comprises a polymer-containing material.   The device of claim 15, wherein the first substrate member comprises a non-conductive material.   The device of claim 15, wherein the first substrate member comprises a multilayer material.   The device of claim 15, wherein the first substrate member is optically transparent.   The device of claim 15, further comprising a first electrical connection member coupled to at least two of the plurality of photovoltaic stripe shapes.   The device of claim 15, further comprising a second electrical connection member coupled to at least two of the plurality of photovoltaic stripe shapes. A first substrate member having a first substrate member space region A1,
A plurality of photovoltaic regions disposed on the first substrate member and occupying all photovoltaic space regions A (2);
A sealing material covering a part of the first substrate member;
A second substrate member bonded to the sealing material;
A contact area along a peripheral area of the first substrate member and the second substrate member;
A sealing region in the contact region to form individual solar cells from the first substrate member and the second substrate member;
With
Thereby, A (2) / A (1) of the individual solar cells is 0.8 or less.
Solar cell device structure.   27. The device of claim 26, wherein the encapsulant material comprises an optical elastomeric material that comprises a liquid.   27. The device of claim 26, wherein the encapsulating material is a solid material.   27. The device of claim 26, wherein the sealing area is provided by ultrasonic welding.   27. The device of claim 26, wherein the sealing area is provided by vibration welding.   27. The device of claim 26, wherein the sealing area is provided by a heat treatment.   27. The device of claim 26, wherein the sealing area is provided by chemical treatment.   27. The device of claim 26, wherein the sealing area is provided by a paste material.   27. The device of claim 26, wherein the sealing area is provided by radiation treatment.   27. The device of claim 26, wherein a plurality of photovoltaic regions are provided in each of the plurality of recesses on the first substrate.   27. The device of claim 26, wherein each of the plurality of photovoltaic regions comprises a silicon-containing material.   27. The device of claim 26, wherein the first substrate member comprises a polymer-containing material.   27. The device of claim 26, wherein the first substrate member comprises a non-conductive material.   27. The device of claim 26, wherein the first substrate member comprises a multilayer material.   27. The device of claim 26, wherein the first substrate member is optically transparent.   27. The device of claim 26, further comprising a first electrical connection member coupled to at least two of the plurality of photovoltaic regions.   27. The device of claim 26, further comprising a second electrical connection member coupled to at least two of the plurality of photovoltaic regions. A back cover member having a surface region and a back region;
A plurality of photovoltaic regions disposed on the surface region of the back cover member, a plurality of photovoltaic regions occupying all photovoltaic space regions;
A sealing material covering a part of the back cover member;
A front cover member coupled to the sealing material;
A contact area along at least a peripheral area of the back cover member and the front cover member;
A sealing region formed at least in the contact region to form individual solar cells from the back cover member and the front cover member;
With
For individual solar cells, (photovoltaic space area) / (back cover surface area) is 0.8 or less,
A solar cell device structure comprising:   44. The device of claim 43, wherein the encapsulating material comprises an optical elastomeric material comprising a liquid.   44. The device of claim 43, wherein the encapsulant is solid.   44. The device of claim 43, wherein the sealing area is provided by ultrasonic welding.   44. The device of claim 43, wherein the sealing area is provided by vibration welding.   44. The device of claim 43, wherein the sealing region is provided by a heat treatment.   44. The device of claim 43, wherein the sealing area is provided by chemical treatment.   44. The device of claim 43, wherein the sealing area is provided by a paste material.   44. The device of claim 43, wherein the sealing area is provided by an irradiation process.   44. The device of claim 43, wherein a plurality of photovoltaic regions are provided in respective recesses on the back cover.   44. The device of claim 43, wherein the plurality of photovoltaic regions comprise a silicon-containing material.   44. The device of claim 43, wherein the back cover member comprises a polymer-containing material.   44. The device of claim 43, wherein the back cover member comprises a non-conductive material.   44. The device of claim 43, wherein the back cover member comprises a multilayer material.   44. The device of claim 43, wherein the back cover member is optically transparent.   44. The device of claim 43, further comprising a first electrical connection member coupled to at least two of the plurality of photovoltaic regions.   44. The device of claim 43, further comprising a second electrical connection member coupled to at least two of the plurality of photovoltaic regions. A first substrate member;
A plurality of photovoltaic stripe shapes disposed on the first substrate member;
A lying sealing material covering a portion of the first substrate member;
A first refractive index indicating the properties of the sealing material;
A plurality of optical concentrating elements thereon, wherein at least one of the optical concentrating elements is operably coupled to at least one of the plurality of photovoltaic stripe shapes. A second substrate member disposed on the photovoltaic strip-shaped object;
Exhibit characteristics of the second substrate material and reduce the amount of internal reflection from a portion of the concentrating element so that light passes through one of the optical concentrating elements and through a portion of the sealing material. A second index of refraction adapted to the first index of refraction to move photons to a portion of the power generation stripe shape;
A solar cell device comprising: A first substrate member;
A plurality of photovoltaic stripe shapes disposed on the first substrate member;
A sealing material covering a part of the first substrate member;
A first refractive index indicating the properties of the sealing material;
A plurality of photovoltaics having a plurality of optical concentrating elements thereon, at least one of the optical concentrating elements being operably coupled to at least one of the plurality of photovoltaic strip shapes A second substrate member lying on the striped object;
A second refractive index indicating the characteristics of the second substrate material,
The plurality of optical condensing elements are composed of at least a second substrate material,
The first index of refraction is such that the one or more photons are facilitated to move from at least one of the optical concentrators to a portion of the photovoltaic stripe shape. Is substantially compatible with the
Solar cell device. The sealing material can be adapted to the first thermal expansion coefficient of the plurality of photovoltaic stripe shapes on the first substrate member and the second thermal expansion coefficient of the second substrate, and the first thermal expansion coefficient. The coefficient is different from the second thermal expansion coefficient,
62. The device of claim 61.   62. The device of claim 61, wherein the encapsulating material facilitates the movement of one or more photons between one of the light concentrating elements and one of the plurality of photovoltaic stripe shapes.   62. The device of claim 61, wherein the encapsulant material is a barrier material.   64. The device of claim 61, wherein the encapsulating material exhibits the properties of an electrically insulating structure.   62. The device of claim 61, wherein the encapsulating material is a glue layer. A packaged solar cell assembly capable of independent operation to generate power using a sealed solar cell assembly and / or other solar cell assemblies,
A rigid front cover member having a front cover surface area and a plurality of light concentrating elements disposed thereon, each condensing element extending from a first part to a second part of the front cover surface area And each condensing element has a width disposed between the first part and the second part, and each condensing element is coupled to the first side of the width. The first end and the second end provided on the second side of the width, and the first end and the second end are the first of the surface area of the front cover. A front cover member extending from the portion to the second portion, and the plurality of light collecting elements extending in parallel from the first portion to the second portion;
A plurality of photovoltaic stripe shapes arranged on a plurality of light collecting elements, each of the plurality of photovoltaic stripe shapes has a width and a length, and each of the photovoltaic stripe shapes is plural. A plurality of photovoltaic stripe shapes coupled to at least one of the light collecting elements;
In order to optically couple the photovoltaic stripe shape to the light collecting element, a bonding material provided between each photovoltaic stripe shape and each light collecting element;
A hard back cover member having a plurality of support portions for mechanically supporting a plurality of photovoltaic power generation stripe shapes, respectively;
A sealed area that mechanically couples the hard back cover member to the hard front cover member to produce a sandwich-sealed assembly, and maintains a plurality of photovoltaic stripe shapes unaffected by moisture The sandwich sealed assembly allows a plurality of photovoltaic stripes to be handled with substantially no mechanical loss; and a sealed area;
A packaged solar cell assembly comprising:   68. The assembly of claim 67, wherein the moisture is less than a predetermined amount in parts per million.   68. The assembly of claim 67, wherein the mechanical loss is damage to at least one of the photovoltaic stripe features.   68. The assembly of claim 67, wherein the rigid front cover is made essentially of a polymeric material.   68. The assembly of claim 67, wherein the rigid back cover is made essentially of a polymeric material.   68. The assembly of claim 67, wherein the rigid front cover is made from a transparent polymeric material having a refractive index in the range of about 1.48 to about 1.5 or greater.   68. The assembly of claim 67, wherein the rigid front cover has a predetermined Young's modulus.   68. The assembly of claim 67, wherein the rigid back cover has a predetermined Young's modulus.   A first electrode member coupled to a first region of each of the plurality of photovoltaic stripe shapes; and a second electrode member coupled to a second region of each of the plurality of photovoltaic stripe shapes. 68. The assembly of claim 67. A first electrode member coupled to a first portion of each of the plurality of photovoltaic strips;
A second electrode member each coupled to a second portion of the plurality of photovoltaic strips;
A first electrode having a first protrusion extending from the first portion of the sandwiched assembly;
A second electrode having a second protruding portion extending from the first portion of the sandwiched assembly;
68. The assembly of claim 67, comprising: A solar cell device,
A back substrate member having a back region and an internal region;
A plurality of photovoltaic stripe shapes that are spatially arranged in parallel on the inner surface region, each having a characteristic in width and length; and
A processed concentrator operably coupled to each of the plurality of photovoltaic stripe shapes, the processed concentrator having a first side and a second side;
An opening region provided on the first side surface of the processed light collecting device;
An exit area provided on the second side of the processed concentrator;
A geometric collection characteristic given by the ratio of the aperture area to the exit area, characterized in the range of about 1.8 to about 4.5;
A polymer material exhibiting the characteristics of the processed light collector;
A refractive index greater than or equal to about 1.45, indicating the properties of the polymer material of the processed concentrator;
A binding material disposed on each of the plurality of photovoltaic stripe-shaped objects, and binding each of the plurality of photovoltaic regions to each of the plurality of light collecting devices;
A refractive index greater than or equal to about 1.45, indicating the properties of the binding material that couples each of the plurality of photovoltaic regions to each of the plurality of light collectors;
A solar cell device comprising:   78. The apparatus of claim 77, wherein each photovoltaic stripe shape has a plurality of p-type regions and n-type regions, each p-type region being combined with at least one n-type region.   78. The apparatus of claim 77, wherein each of the plurality of stripe shapes comprises a silicon material.   78. The apparatus of claim 77, wherein the light concentrator has a first side and a second side.   81. The apparatus of claim 80, wherein the first side has an effective value of about 100 nm roughness.   82. The apparatus of claim 81, wherein the second side has an effective value of about 100 nm roughness.   83. The apparatus of claim 82, wherein the roughness is a dimensional value of about 10% of the light wavelength obtained from the aperture region.   78. The apparatus of claim 77, wherein the back member is characterized by a polymeric material.   78. The apparatus of claim 77, wherein the processed concentrator has a pyramid shape.   78. The apparatus of claim 77, wherein the bonding material has a predetermined Young's modulus.   78. The apparatus of claim 77, wherein the polymeric material is characterized by a coefficient of thermal expansion.   78. The apparatus of claim 77, wherein the relative efficiency is 80% or more compared to the original solar cell in the module. A solar cell device,
A back substrate member having a back region and an interior region and characterized by a width;
A photovoltaic stripe-shaped object that is spatially parallel to the inner surface area and has characteristics in length and width,
A molded concentrator operably coupled to each of the plurality of photovoltaic stripe shapes and having a first side and a second side;
An opening region provided on the first side surface of the molded light collecting device;
An exit region provided on the second side of the molded concentrator;
A first reflective surface provided between the first portion of the open area and the first portion of the exit area;
A second reflective surface provided between the second portion of the open area and the second portion of the exit area;
A geometric collection characteristic given by the ratio of the opening area to the exit area, the geometric collection characteristic having a characteristic in the range of about 1.8 to about 4.5;
A polymeric material characterizing a molded concentrator comprising an aperture region, an exit region, a first reflective surface, and a second reflective surface;
A refractive index of greater than or equal to about 1.45 characterizing a processed concentrator of polymer material;
A binding material disposed on each of the plurality of photovoltaic stripe-shaped objects, and binding each photovoltaic region to each condensing device;
One or more indentations facing each of the first reflective surface and the second reflective surface,
A dimple that is characterized to have a refractive index of about 1 to reflect one or more photons from the aperture region toward the exit region;
A solar cell device comprising:   90. The apparatus of claim 89, wherein the first reflective surface has a first abrasive surface in a portion of the polymeric material.   90. The apparatus of claim 89, wherein the second reflective surface has a second abrasive surface in the portion of polymeric material.   90. The apparatus of claim 89, wherein the polymeric material can be insensitive to losses caused by ultraviolet radiation.   90. The apparatus of claim 89, wherein the first reflective surface is characterized by a surface roughness having an effective value of about 120 nm or less.   90. The apparatus of claim 89, wherein the first reflective surface is characterized by a surface roughness having an effective value of about 120 nm or less.   90. The apparatus of claim 89, wherein the first reflective surface and the second reflective surface are provided for all internal reflections of one or more photons provided from the aperture region.   90. The apparatus of claim 89, wherein the back substrate member is characterized by about 8 inches or less.   90. The apparatus of claim 89, wherein the back substrate member is characterized by a width of about 8 inches or less and a length of 8 inches or more. A packaged solar cell assembly capable of independent operation capable of generating power using a packaged solar cell assembly and / or other solar cell assemblies,
A hard front cover having a plurality of light collecting elements arranged to extend in parallel from the first part to the second part of the front cover, wherein the plurality of light collecting elements arranged in parallel A rigid front cover having a configuration in which stripes are arranged from one part to a second part, and each condensing element has a condensing coefficient of at least 1.5;
A maximum space dimension of 8.5 inches or less between the first portion and the second of the rigid front cover member;
A plurality of photovoltaic stripe shapes each disposed on a plurality of light collecting elements, the plurality of photovoltaic stripe shapes each having a width and a length, and each having a plurality of photovoltaic stripe shapes A plurality of photovoltaic stripes coupled to at least one of the plurality of light collecting elements;
One or more first electrical members each coupled to a first portion of the plurality of photovoltaic strips;
One or more second electrical members coupled to a second portion of each of the plurality of photovoltaic strips;
In order to optically couple the photovoltaic stripe shape and the light collecting element, an optical coupling material provided between each photovoltaic stripe shape and the light collecting element,
A hard back cover member having a plurality of support portions, and each of the plurality of support portions is provided to mechanically support a plurality of photovoltaic stripe-shaped objects. Members,
By mechanically coupling the hard back cover member to the hard front cover member, a plurality of photovoltaic stripe shaped objects can be sealed and sandwiched so that they can be maintained substantially free from moisture. A sealed area that provides a sealed assembly, wherein a sealed and sandwiched assembly allows a plurality of photovoltaic stripe shapes to be handled without substantial mechanical loss. Stop area,
Packaged solar cell assembly comprising A packaged solar cell assembly,
A hard front cover having a plurality of light collecting elements arranged to extend in parallel from the first part to the second part of the front cover, wherein the plurality of light collecting elements arranged in parallel A rigid front cover having a configuration in which stripes are arranged from one part to a second part, and each condensing element has a condensing coefficient of at least 1.5;
A maximum space dimension of 8.5 inches or less between the first portion and the second of the rigid front cover member;
A plurality of photovoltaic stripe shapes each disposed on a plurality of light collecting elements, the plurality of photovoltaic stripe shapes each having a width and a length, and each having a plurality of photovoltaic stripe shapes A plurality of photovoltaic stripes coupled to at least one of the plurality of light collecting elements;
One or more first electrical members each coupled to a first portion of the plurality of photovoltaic strips;
One or more second electrical members coupled to a second portion of each of the plurality of photovoltaic strips;
In order to optically couple the photovoltaic stripe shape and the light collecting element, an optical coupling material provided between each photovoltaic stripe shape and the light collecting element,
A hard back cover member having a plurality of support portions, and each of the plurality of support portions is provided to mechanically support a plurality of photovoltaic stripe-shaped objects. Members,
By mechanically coupling the hard back cover member to the hard front cover member, a plurality of photovoltaic stripe shaped objects can be sealed and sandwiched so that they can be maintained substantially free from moisture. A sealed area that provides a sealed assembly, wherein a sealed and sandwiched assembly allows a plurality of photovoltaic stripe shapes to be handled without substantial mechanical loss. Stop area,
With
Each condensing element has a pair of surfaces having a surface finish with an effective value of 120 nm or less that substantially internally reflects.
Packaged solar cell assembly comprising

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