JP6500684B2 - Photoelectric conversion device - Google Patents

Description

  The present invention relates to a photoelectric conversion device.

  BACKGROUND In recent years, the demand for a portable power generation device has been increasing so that users can use portable devices such as a smartphone, a notebook PC (Personal Computer), and a tablet PC even at places outside where commercial power can not be obtained.

  For example, Patent Document 1 discloses flexibility and stretchability of a plurality of solar cells (photoelectric conversion modules) arranged at predetermined intervals and a flexible conductive member connecting electrodes of the respective solar cells. A sheet-like solar cell formed by sandwiching a sheet-like transparent film member from above and below is disclosed. According to such a sheet-like solar cell, at the time of use, the sheet-like solar cell can be expanded, and the electric power generated by the solar cell can be taken out and used in an external device. In addition, when not in use, the sheet-like solar cell can be folded and easily stored and transported.

Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 9-51118

  As described above, the sheet-like solar cell disclosed in Patent Document 1 can be folded and stored when not in use, but only folding in one direction (row direction) is assumed, and the storage property Room for improvement. Further, if the sheet solar cell disclosed in Patent Document 1 is configured to be folded in the row direction, various folding methods are assumed, but depending on the folding method, a load may be applied to wiring and the like. Furthermore, it was difficult for the user to judge what kind of folding method is preferable.

  An object of the present invention is to provide a photoelectric conversion device which solves the above-mentioned problems, aims at improvement of storability at the time of non-use, and can guide a user to a preferable folding method.

  An object of the present invention is to advantageously solve the above-mentioned problems, and a photoelectric conversion device according to the present invention comprises a plurality of thin panel photoelectric conversion modules arranged in a matrix and a row of the photoelectric conversion modules. Photoelectric conversion module foldable between adjacent photoelectric conversion modules comprising a first connection member mechanically and electrically connected in a direction and a second connection member mechanically connect the photoelectric conversion modules in a row direction The connector is mechanically and electrically connected to the plurality of photoelectric conversion modules disposed at the end of the column direction of the photoelectric conversion module connector, and is folded with a width corresponding to the width of the photoelectric conversion module in the row direction A main body comprising an interface capable of, the interface comprising: first guiding means for guiding a folding direction in a row direction; For example, the photoelectric conversion module connected body, characterized in that it comprises a second inductive means for directing folding direction in the column direction. With such a configuration, since the folding direction in the row direction and the column direction is guided, it is possible to improve the storability at the time of non-use, and to guide the user to a preferable folding method.

  Here, in the photoelectric conversion device of the present invention, the second induction means is mechanically connected to the plurality of photoelectric conversion modules disposed at the row direction end of the photoelectric conversion module combination, and the photoelectric conversion module It is preferable that the guide be foldable with a width corresponding to the width in the row direction, and the folding direction be a guide limited to either the front side or the back side. With such a configuration, it is possible to further guide the user to a preferred folding method in order to limit the folding direction in the row direction.

  Further, in the photoelectric conversion device of the present invention, the guide portion is provided with a plurality of second rigid members mechanically connected with the plurality of photoelectric conversion modules disposed at the row direction end of the photoelectric conversion module combination. It is preferable that the plurality of second rigid members be foldably and mechanically connected, and a second connecting portion restricting the direction of the folding to either the front side or the back side.

  Preferably, the second connection part is a hinge.

  Further, in the photoelectric conversion device of the present invention, preferably, the first guiding means limits the folding direction of the interface to either one of the front side and the back side. With such a configuration, it is possible to further guide the user to a preferred folding method in order to limit the folding direction in the row direction.

  Further, in the photoelectric conversion device according to the present invention, the interface is provided with a plurality of first rigidity mechanically and electrically connected to the plurality of photoelectric conversion modules disposed at the column direction end of the photoelectric conversion module combination. It is preferable to provide a member and a first connecting portion that mechanically and electrically connects the plurality of first rigid members in a foldable manner and restricts the folding direction to either the front side or the back side. With such a configuration, the interface can be folded in units of the first rigid member, and can be extended linearly.

  Further, in the photoelectric conversion device of the present invention, preferably, the interface includes a lock mechanism for holding the first rigid member in a linearly expanded state. With such a configuration, it is possible to prevent the state in which each first rigid member is folded or unfolded is released against the user's intention. In addition, since the interface is more difficult to fold than the guide, it is possible to guide to the preferred folding procedure of folding the interface after folding the guide.

  Further, in the photoelectric conversion device according to the present invention, it is preferable that the lock mechanism releases holding of the expanded state by a release operation different from an operation of folding the first rigid member. With such a configuration, since it takes time to fold the interface, it is possible to further guide the procedure of the preferred folding method in which the guide is folded and then the interface is folded.

  In the photoelectric conversion device according to the present invention, the lock mechanism holds the expanded state in a state where the guide portion is expanded, and interlocks to be in a state other than the state in which the guide portion is expanded or in a folded state. It is preferable to release the holding of the expanded state. With such a configuration, it is possible to lead to a preferred folding procedure of folding the interface after folding the guide without complicating the operation.

  Further, in the photoelectric conversion device according to the present invention, it is preferable that the first guiding unit is to leave a bending wedging in a specific direction in the first connecting portion. With such a configuration, it is possible to guide to a suitable folding procedure with a simple configuration.

  Moreover, it is preferable that the said 2nd induction | guidance | derivation means is to make a bending wedging in a specific direction remain in the said 1st connection member. With such a configuration, it is not necessary to provide a guide portion, so space saving of the photoelectric conversion device can be achieved.

  In the photoelectric conversion device of the present invention, preferably, the photoelectric conversion module combination is detachable from the interface. With such a configuration, the handleability of the photoelectric conversion device can be improved.

  Further, in the photoelectric conversion device of the present invention, it is preferable to include a support portion capable of suspending and supporting the photoelectric conversion device. With such a configuration, space saving can be achieved when the photoelectric conversion device is installed.

  According to the present invention, it is possible to provide a photoelectric conversion device that can improve the storability at the time of non-use and can guide the user to a preferable folding method.

It is a block diagram which shows schematic structure of the photoelectric conversion apparatus which concerns on the 1st Embodiment of this invention. It is a perspective view in the use condition of the photoelectric conversion apparatus shown in FIG. It is a perspective view in the accommodation state of the photoelectric conversion apparatus shown in FIG. It is a left view which shows the structure of the connection part in the guide part of the photoelectric conversion apparatus shown in FIG. It is a figure which shows the structure of the interface of the photoelectric conversion apparatus shown in FIG. It is a figure which shows the state in which the interface of the photoelectric conversion apparatus shown in FIG. 1 was folded. It is (a) top sectional drawing in the holding | maintenance state of the lock mechanism which has a releasing means in the interface of the photoelectric conversion apparatus shown in FIG. 1, (b) It is front sectional drawing. It is (a) top sectional drawing in the cancellation | release state of the lock mechanism which has a releasing means in the interface of the photoelectric conversion apparatus shown in FIG. 1, (b) It is front sectional drawing. It is (a) top view in the use condition of the photoelectric conversion apparatus shown in FIG. 1, and (b) front view. It is (a) top view in the row direction folding state of the photoelectric conversion apparatus shown in FIG. 1, and (b) it is a front view. It is (a) top view in the accommodation state of the photoelectric conversion apparatus shown in FIG. 1, and (b) front view. It is a figure which shows the usage example of the photoelectric conversion apparatus shown in FIG. It is a top view of the modification 1 of the photoelectric conversion apparatus shown in FIG. It is a top view of the modification 2 of the photoelectric conversion apparatus shown in FIG. It is a top view of the modification 3 of the photoelectric conversion apparatus shown in FIG. It is a top view of the modification 4 of the photoelectric conversion apparatus shown in FIG. FIG. 17 is a perspective view of a part of an example (part 1) in which the photoelectric conversion device shown in FIG. 16 includes a lock mechanism. FIG. 18 is a top cross-sectional view in each of (a) a holding state and (b) a released state of the lock mechanism in the interface of the photoelectric conversion device illustrated in FIG. 17. It is a perspective view of a part of example (the 2) in which a photoelectric conversion device shown in Drawing 16 is provided with a lock mechanism. FIG. 20 is a top cross-sectional view in each of (a) a released state and (b) a holding state of the lock mechanism in the interface and guide portion of the photoelectric conversion device shown in FIG. It is a top view of the modification 5 of the photoelectric conversion apparatus shown in FIG. It is a perspective view which shows the structure of photoelectric conversion module IF which concerns on the modification 6 of the photoelectric conversion apparatus shown in FIG. It is a perspective view which shows the structure of the rigid member which comprises the interface which concerns on the modification 6 of the photoelectric conversion apparatus shown in FIG. It is a figure which shows a part of modification 7 (the 1) of the photoelectric conversion apparatus shown in FIG. It is a figure which shows a part of modification 7 (the 2) of the photoelectric conversion apparatus shown in FIG.

Hereinafter, embodiments of the present invention will be described.
In the present specification, the vertical direction means a direction perpendicular to the paper surface of the top view of the photoelectric conversion device as shown in FIG. 9A, etc., and the upper direction is the front direction of the paper surface in the same direction, and the lower direction is the opposite direction. Shall mean. In addition, the front side means the side facing upward in the use state of the photoelectric conversion device, and the back side means the opposite side.

  Hereinafter, with reference to FIGS. 1-12, the photoelectric conversion apparatus 1 which concerns on one Embodiment of this invention is illustrated in detail. FIG. 1 is a block diagram showing a schematic configuration of a photoelectric conversion device 1 according to an embodiment of the present invention.

  The photoelectric conversion device 1 according to the present embodiment includes a photoelectric conversion module coupled body 10, a main body 20, and a guide portion 40 as shown in FIG. The photoelectric conversion device 1 can receive power supply from a commercial power supply via the AC adapter 30. The AC adapter 30 includes an outlet 31 and an AC / DC converter 32. An AC voltage is input from a commercial power source to the AC / DC converter 32 via the outlet 31. The AC / DC converter 32 converts the input AC voltage into a DC voltage and supplies the DC voltage to the main body 20.

  The photoelectric conversion module combination 10 is composed of a plurality of photoelectric conversion module groups 11, and each photoelectric conversion module group 11 includes a plurality of photoelectric conversion modules P electrically connected to one another, the photoelectric conversion modules P and the main body 20. And a photoelectric conversion module interface (IF) 12 electrically connecting the Although details will be described later, as shown in FIG. 2, the photoelectric conversion modules P constituting the photoelectric conversion module group 11 are mechanically and electrically connected to each other through the first connection member 13. Further, the photoelectric conversion modules P between the adjacent photoelectric conversion module groups 11 are mechanically connected via the second connection member Q.

  The photoelectric conversion module P includes a solar cell panel 14. The solar cell panel 14 is a panel-like member configured of a solar cell that photoelectrically converts incident light such as sunlight and room light and outputs electric power. In addition, the photoelectric conversion module P further includes a base (not shown) for supporting the solar cell panel 14, an extraction wiring (not shown) for extracting the electric power generated by the solar cell panel 14, and the like.

  The types of solar cells constituting the solar cell panel 14 can be roughly classified into inorganic solar cells using inorganic materials and organic solar cells using organic materials. As an inorganic type solar cell, Si type using silicon (Si), the compound type using a compound, etc. are mentioned. In addition, as organic solar cells, low molecular weight vapor deposition systems using organic pigments, polymer coating systems using conductive polymers, coating systems using conversion type semiconductors, thin film systems such as titania, organic dyes, The dye sensitization system etc. which consist of electrolytes are mentioned. The solar cells constituting the solar cell panel 14 can also include organic-inorganic hybrid solar cells and solar cells using a perovskite compound. In the present invention, a thin panel solar cell panel 14 is used, and a dye-sensitized solar cell made of a plastic film or the like is preferable. The thin panel solar cell panel 14 is not limited to the one made of the above-mentioned plastic film or the like, and it is needless to say that any similar thin panel may be used.

  The photoelectric conversion module IF 12 is an interface for mechanically and electrically connecting the photoelectric conversion module group 11 to the main body 20. Details of the photoelectric conversion module IF 12 will be described later.

  The main body 20 includes an interface 21, a booster circuit unit 22, a photoelectric conversion module voltage detection unit 23, an AC adapter voltage detection unit 24, a rechargeable battery 25, an external interface (IF) 26, and a charge / discharge control circuit 27. , Controller 28.

  The interface 21 is an interface for mechanically and electrically connecting the photoelectric conversion module group 11 to the main body 20. The interface 21 outputs the power supplied from the connected photoelectric conversion module group 11 via the photoelectric conversion module IF 12 to the booster circuit unit 22.

  The booster circuit unit 22 boosts the voltage of the power supplied from the photoelectric conversion module group 11 via the interface 21 to a predetermined voltage necessary for charging the rechargeable battery 25 and outputs the boosted voltage to the charge / discharge control circuit 27.

  The photoelectric conversion module voltage detection unit 23 detects and detects a voltage (photoelectric conversion module voltage) supplied to the booster circuit unit 22 through the interface 21 from the photoelectric conversion module group 11 connected to the interface 21 of the main body 20. The result is output to the controller 28.

  The AC adapter voltage detection unit 24 detects a voltage (AC adapter voltage) supplied from the AC adapter 30 to the charge / discharge control circuit 27, and outputs a detection result to the controller 28.

  The rechargeable battery 25 is a battery that can be charged and discharged, such as a lead storage battery or a lithium ion secondary battery.

  The external interface (IF) 26 is an interface capable of connecting an external device and supplying power to the connected external device. The external IF 26 is not particularly limited. For example, the external IF 26 is a connector (USB connector) using a USB (Universal Serial Bus) interface, a cable having a connector at its tip, etc. Supply power to the external device in response to a charge request from the external device. The photoelectric conversion device 1 can be mechanically and electrically detached via the external IF 26 to various devices to be charged, for example, devices such as a mobile phone, a smartphone, a tablet device, and a personal computer.

  The charge and discharge control circuit 27 performs charge and discharge control between the booster circuit unit 22, the AC adapter 30, the rechargeable battery 25, and an external device connected via the external IF 26.

  The controller 28 controls the operation of each part of the main body 20. For example, the controller 28 uses the charge / discharge control circuit 27 to charge and discharge based on the detection result of the photoelectric conversion module voltage detection unit 23, the detection result of the AC adapter voltage detection unit 24, the charge amount of the rechargeable battery 25, and the like. Control the path of Further, the controller 28 controls, for example, a boosting operation by the boosting circuit unit 22.

  Next, the configuration of the photoelectric conversion device 1 will be described in more detail with reference to FIGS. 2 and 3. FIG. 2 is a perspective view of the photoelectric conversion device 1 according to the present embodiment in a use state and FIG. 3 in a storage state, respectively. Here, in order to generate power using the photoelectric conversion device 1, the use state is such that the photoelectric conversion modules P are spread so as not to overlap with each other, and the entire photoelectric conversion module assembly 10 is planar. The storage state refers to a state in which each photoelectric conversion module P is folded to store the photoelectric conversion device 1 when the photoelectric conversion device 1 is not used, and all the photoelectric conversion modules P are stacked in the vertical direction. The components of the main body 20 other than the interface 21 are not particularly limited in appearance and thus are indicated by broken lines.

  As shown in FIG. 2, in the use state of the photoelectric conversion module connected body 10, the photoelectric conversion modules P are arranged in a matrix. Each photoelectric conversion module P is mechanically and electrically connected in the column direction by the first connection member 13 to configure a photoelectric conversion module group 11. Each photoelectric conversion module P is mechanically connected also in the row direction by the second connection member Q.

  Then, the plurality of photoelectric conversion modules P arranged at the end in the column direction of the photoelectric conversion module connected body 10, here three photoelectric conversion modules P (P11, P12, P13) arranged in the first row are photoelectric conversion It is mechanically and electrically connected to the interface 21 via the module IF 12. In addition, the plurality of photoelectric conversion modules P arranged at the row direction end of the photoelectric conversion module combination 10, in this case, the three photoelectric conversion modules P (P11, P21, P31) arranged in the first column are mechanical And the guiding unit 40.

  The photoelectric conversion module P has a thin panel shape, and in the present example, has a rectangular shape in the top view. The thickness of the photoelectric conversion module P in the vertical direction is preferably, for example, 3 mm or less from the viewpoint of manufacturing technology. The lower limit of the thickness of the photoelectric conversion module P is preferably about 10 μm. The photoelectric conversion module P can also be coated with an exterior material for providing environmental resistance. Moreover, it is preferable that the photoelectric conversion module P has flexibility. Furthermore, it is preferable that the photoelectric conversion module P be covered with a frame that is a rigid member on the outer periphery. Thereby, for example, the bending deformation of the photoelectric conversion module P due to the stress generated from the first connection member 13 and the second connection member Q in the storage state or the like can be suppressed.

  The photoelectric conversion module P is provided with the solar cell panel 14 so as to be able to receive incident light from above. The photoelectric conversion module P includes a lead-out wiring connected to the solar cell panel 14 and extended onto the side surface of the photoelectric conversion module P, and the electric power generated by the solar cell panel 14 is drawn out through the lead-out, and the first connection The light is output to the interface 21 through the member 13 and the other photoelectric conversion module P. The solar cell panel 14 included in the photoelectric conversion module P may be provided to be capable of receiving incident light from directions other than the upper side, for example, the lower side.

  The first connection member 13 is a flexible conductive member (for example, a conductive cable or a flexible substrate), and mechanically and electrically connects the photoelectric conversion modules P in the column direction. In addition, the first connection member 13 may include a covering member for protecting and / or reinforcing the conductive member. The first connection member 13 has a smaller thickness in the vertical direction than the photoelectric conversion module P, and is connected to an arbitrary point on the opposing side surface of the photoelectric conversion module P adjacent in the column direction, for example, near the center in the vertical direction.

  The first connection member 13 is configured to be able to fold the photoelectric conversion module P connected via the first connection member 13. The first connection member 13 preferably has higher flexibility than the photoelectric conversion module P in terms of ease of folding. In addition, in FIG. 2, although the 1st connection member 13 connects each photoelectric conversion module P in two places, it is not limited to such a structure, You may connect in one place, or three or more places It may be linked. In addition, the length of the first connection member 13 between the photoelectric conversion modules P adjacent in the column direction is not particularly limited as long as the adjacent photoelectric conversion modules P can be folded together or longer, but the viewpoint of aesthetics Therefore, it is preferable that the length of the second connection member Q between the photoelectric conversion modules P adjacent in the row direction be substantially the same.

  The second connection member Q is a flexible member, and mechanically connects the photoelectric conversion modules P in the row direction. The second connection member Q has a smaller thickness in the vertical direction than the photoelectric conversion module P, and is connected to an arbitrary position on the opposing side surface of the photoelectric conversion module P adjacent in the row direction, for example, near the center in the vertical direction.

  The second connection member Q is configured to be able to fold the photoelectric conversion module P connected via the second connection member Q. The second connection member Q preferably has higher flexibility than the photoelectric conversion module P in terms of ease of folding. In addition, in FIG. 2, although the 2nd connection member Q connects each photoelectric conversion module P in one place, it is not limited to such a structure, You may connect in two or more places.

  In addition, the second connection member Q may have stretchability in the connection direction with the photoelectric conversion module P. Specifically, the second connection member Q is formed in, for example, a bellows shape, formed of a cloth of rubber or an elastic material, or formed of a combination thereof, thereby having elasticity. Good. Here, that the second connection member Q is formed in a bellows shape means that the second connection member Q is formed to be folded in a bellows shape in the connection direction of the photoelectric conversion module P.

  The photoelectric conversion module IF12 is a conductive member (for example, a conductive cable or a flexible substrate), and mechanically and electrically connects the photoelectric conversion module group 11 and the interface 21 of the main body 20 in the column direction. In addition, the photoelectric conversion module IF12 may include a covering member for protecting and / or reinforcing the conductive member.

  By providing the photoelectric conversion module IF 12 between the photoelectric conversion module combination body 10 and the main body 20, the photoelectric conversion device 1 can make it difficult for the stress applied to the photoelectric conversion module combination body 10 or the main body 20 to be transmitted to each other. it can. The photoelectric conversion module IF 12 may not have flexibility, but preferably has flexibility in that the applied stress can be further reduced.

  The interface 21 is configured by connecting a plurality of first rigid members 211 via a first connection portion 216. Each of the first rigid members 211 is mechanically and electrically connected one by one to the photoelectric conversion modules P disposed at the end in the column direction of the photoelectric conversion module combination 10. The interface 21 can be folded with a width corresponding to the width in the row direction of the photoelectric conversion module P by folding the first rigid member 211 through the first connection portion 216, and the folding direction is front or back It is limited to either one.

  Here, the width corresponding to the width of the photoelectric conversion module P in the row direction is substantially equal to the width of the photoelectric conversion module P in the row direction, and the photoelectric conversion module P is folded via the second connection member Q. Can be any width as long as By folding the interface 21 with a width corresponding to the width of the photoelectric conversion module P in the row direction, the photoelectric conversion module P can also be interlocked and folded in the row direction.

  Each first rigid member 211 has a thickness equal to or greater than the total thickness of all the photoelectric conversion modules P connected in the column direction in the vertical direction, and preferably has substantially the same thickness as the total thickness. Thereby, the photoelectric conversion module P can be protected by the interface 21 in the storage state.

  Specifically, the interface 21 includes three first rigid members 211 (211a, 211b, 211c) and two first connecting portions 216 (216a, 216b) in this example. The first rigid member 211 a and the first rigid member 211 b are foldably connected (openable and closable) to the front side via the first connection portion 216 a. Further, the first rigid member 211 b and the first rigid member 211 c are connected to the back side so as to be able to open and close via the first connecting portion 216 b. Thus, as a whole, the first rigid member 211 and the first connecting portion 216 restrict the folding direction of the interface 21 to either the front side or the back side, thereby the folding direction of the photoelectric conversion device 1 in the row direction. It functions as a first guiding means for guiding.

  The guide portion 40 is configured by connecting a plurality of second rigid members 41 via a second connection portion 42. The photoelectric conversion modules P arranged at the row direction end of the photoelectric conversion module combination 10 are mechanically connected to each of the second rigid members 41 one by one. The guiding portion 40 is foldable by a width corresponding to the width in the column direction of the photoelectric conversion modules P by folding the second rigid member 41 via the second connecting portion 42, and the folding direction is the front side or the back side It is limited to either one. Each second rigid member 41 preferably has substantially the same thickness as the photoelectric conversion module P in the vertical direction.

  Here, the width corresponding to the width in the column direction of the photoelectric conversion module P is substantially equal to the width in the column direction of the photoelectric conversion module P, and the photoelectric conversion module P is folded via the first connection member 13. Can be any width as long as By folding the guide part 40 by the width corresponding to the width of the photoelectric conversion module P in the column direction, the photoelectric conversion module P can be interlocked and folded in the column direction. As described above, the guiding unit 40 functions as a second guiding unit that guides the folding direction of the photoelectric conversion device 1 in the column direction.

  The guide part 40 is provided with three 2nd rigid members 41 (41a, 41b, 41c) and two 2nd connection parts 42 (42a, 42b) in this example. The second rigid member 41a and the second rigid member 41b are foldably connected to the front side via the second connecting portion 42a. The second rigid member 41 b and the second rigid member 41 c are foldably connected to the back side via the second connecting portion 42 b.

  Here, with reference to FIG. 4, the second connecting portion 42 of the guiding portion 40 will be described in detail.

  The second connecting portion 42 is configured to foldably connect the second rigid member 41 and restrict the folding direction to either the front side or the back side. Specifically, for example, as shown in FIG. 4A, the second connecting portion 42 can be configured as a hinge that connects the adjacent second rigid members 41 to each other. In this example, the folding direction between the second rigid members 41a and 41b is restricted to the front side by providing hinges as the second connection portions 42a on the surfaces of the adjacent second rigid members 41a and 41b and connecting them. .

  In addition, as shown in FIG. 4B, the second connecting portion 42 may be constituted by a flexible connecting member 421 for connecting the adjacent second rigid members 41 and a reverse bending prevention mechanism 422. it can. Here, the reverse bending prevention mechanism 422 is provided above or below the connection member 421 of each of the adjacent second rigid members 41 so that the guide portions 40 are in contact with each other when the guide members 40 are in a used state. It is a constructed rigid member. Thereby, the folding direction of the guide portion 40 is limited to either the front side or the back side. In this example, the connecting members 421 are provided on the opposite side surfaces of the adjacent second rigid members 41a and 41b, and the reverse bending prevention mechanism 422 is provided on the back surface so that the folding direction between the second rigid members 41a and 41b is on the front side. It is limited.

  Furthermore, the reverse bending prevention mechanism 422 can be configured as a part of the second rigid member 41, as shown in FIG. 4 (c). In this example, the connecting member 421 is provided on the facing side of the adjacent second rigid members 41a and 41b, and a part of the back surface of the second rigid members 41a and 41b is configured as the reverse bending prevention mechanism 422. The folding direction between the two rigid members 41a and 41b is restricted to the front side.

  In addition, as the second connecting portion 42, in addition to the one shown in FIG. 4, a known mechanism capable of foldably connecting the second rigid member 41 and restricting the folding direction to either the front side or the back side. Can be adopted.

  Here, the configuration of the interface 21 will be described in detail with reference to FIGS. 5 to 8.

  The first connecting portion 216a is a flexible member that electrically connects the first rigid member 211a and the first rigid member 211b with a hinge that mechanically connects the first rigid member 211a and the first rigid member 211b. It consists of a conductive member (a conductive cable and a flexible substrate). The first connecting portion 216b is a flexible member electrically connecting the first rigid member 211b and the first rigid member 211c with a hinge that mechanically connects the first rigid member 211b and the first rigid member 211c. It consists of a conductive member.

  Thus, in the present embodiment, the two first rigid members 211 are connected by one hinge. Note that there are various configurations for mechanically and electrically connecting the two housings so as to be able to open and close by using a hinge and a conductive member, and the descriptions thereof will be omitted because they are well known to those skilled in the art. Do.

  In the interface 21, the adjacent first rigid members 211 are mechanically connected in an openable / closable manner by the first connecting portion 216 and are also electrically connected. Therefore, as shown in FIGS. 3 and 6, the interface 21 can be folded in units of the first rigid member 211. Also, the interface 21 can be extended linearly as shown in FIG. Hereinafter, the state in which the interface 21 is spread in a straight line is appropriately abbreviated as the “developed state”.

  Further, the interface 21 may be provided with a lock mechanism for holding the first rigid members 211 in a folded state. For example, as shown in FIG. 5, a portion where the first rigid member 211 a and the first rigid member 211 b contact in a folded state, and a state in which the first rigid member 211 b and the first rigid member 211 c are folded. The first rigid members 211 may be held in a folded state by providing the magnets M at the places where they abut.

  Further, for example, the first rigid member 211a and the first rigid member 211b are in contact with each other in the folded state, and the first rigid member 211b and the first rigid member 211c are in contact with each other in the folded state. By providing an engagement mechanism (for example, a claw and a claw engagement portion), the first rigid members 211 may be held in a folded state.

  Furthermore, the interface 21 may be provided with a lock mechanism for holding the first rigid members 211 in a linearly expanded state (deployed state). For example, as in the case of the lock mechanism for holding the first rigid members 211 in the folded state, the magnets M may be provided at positions where they abut each other in the unfolded state, or an engagement mechanism may be provided. Then, the expanded state may be held.

  As described above, by providing the interface 21 with the lock mechanism, it is possible to prevent the first rigid members 211 from being released in a state where they are folded or linearly extended against a user's intention. Can. In particular, the interface 21 is provided with a lock mechanism for holding the expanded state, so that when the user puts the photoelectric conversion device 1 in the storage state from the use state, the user first folds the guide portion 40. The interface 21 can be guided to the preferred folding procedure of folding.

  The interface 21 has a release means (operation unit) 220 as a lock mechanism for holding the expanded state, for example, as shown in FIGS. 7 and 8, and holds the expanded state by a release operation by the release means 220. A lock mechanism may be provided to release the lock.

  FIG. 7A is a top cross-sectional view and FIG. 7B is a side cross-sectional view when the interface 21 is provided with a lock mechanism 217 having releasing means and the lock mechanism 217 is in a holding state. Further, FIG. 8 is (a) a top sectional view and (b) a side sectional view when the interface 21 is provided with a lock mechanism 217 having releasing means and the lock mechanism 217 is in the released state.

  As shown in FIGS. 7 and 8, the lock mechanism 217 includes an engagement protrusion 218, a locking recess 219, and an operation portion 220. The engagement protrusion 218 is provided inside the one first rigid member 211 (in the present example, the first rigid member 211 b) via an elastic member, and the elastic member is provided with the other first rigid member 211 (in the present example). It is biased in the direction of the rigid member 211a). The locking recess 219 is a recess provided in the first rigid member 211a, and the engagement protrusion 218 can be inserted therein. The operation portion 220 is connected to the engagement protrusion 218 and protrudes from the side surface in the row direction of the first rigid member 211 b. When an external force is applied by a user operation or the like, the operation unit 220 moves, and the engagement protrusion 218 interlocks and moves in the connecting direction of the first rigid member 211.

  In the unfolded state, as shown in FIG. 7, the engagement protrusion 218 is biased by the elastic member to be inserted into the locking recess 219. As a result, the first rigid members 211a and 211b are prevented from being folded via the first connection portion 216a, and the interface 21 is held in the unfolded state.

  Further, for example, when the operation unit 220 moves by the application of an external force by the user's operation or the like, as shown in FIG. 8, the engagement protrusion 218 is disengaged from the locking recess 219 (release operation). As a result, holding of the expanded state is released. That is, the holding of the unfolded state is released by the release operation different from the operation of folding the first rigid member 211.

  And in the state where each 1st rigid member 211a and 211b was bent via the 1st connection part 216a, although engagement projection 218 protrudes from the 1st rigid member 211b, each 1st rigid member 211a and 211b spreads. The engagement protrusion 218 is pushed into the first rigid member 211 a as it is being advanced. And if each 1st rigid member 211a, 211b is spread linearly (deployment state), it will be in the state where engagement projection 218 was inserted in stop recess 219. As described above, the expanded state can be maintained without requiring any special operation only by linearly expanding the first rigid members 211a and 211b.

  As described above, according to the interface 21 having the release means 220 and provided with the lock mechanism 217 for releasing the holding of the expanded state by the release operation by the release means 220, the release means 220 is used when folding from the expanded state. Although the release operation is required, no special operation is required when changing from the folded state to the expanded state. Therefore, when the user places the photoelectric conversion device 1 in the use state from the use state, the user can further guide the procedure of the preferred folding method in which the user first folds the guide portion 40 and then folds the interface 21. In addition, when the storage state is changed to the use state, the interface 21 can be easily expanded.

  Next, with reference to FIG. 9 to FIG. 11, the process in which the photoelectric conversion device 1 according to the present embodiment is folded and stored from the use state will be described.

  Fig.9 (a) is a top view in the use condition of the photoelectric conversion apparatus 1 which concerns on this embodiment, FIG.9 (b) is a front view in the use condition of the photoelectric conversion apparatus 1 which concerns on this embodiment. 10A is a top view of the photoelectric conversion device 1 according to the present embodiment in the column direction folded state, and FIG. 10B is a column direction folded state of the photoelectric conversion device 1 according to the present embodiment It is a front view in.

  Here, in the column-direction folded state of the photoelectric conversion device 1, the photoelectric conversion devices P in each row are collectively arranged according to the folding direction restricted by the guide portion 40 from the use state shown in FIG. In this state, the photoelectric conversion modules P of all the rows are superimposed on the photoelectric conversion modules P of the row connected to the interface 21 by folding alternately in the column direction.

  In this example, the photoelectric conversion module P (P31, P32, P33) in the third row is folded so as to overlap the back side of the photoelectric conversion module P (P21, P22, P23) in the second row, and these are put together to form the first row. Of the photoelectric conversion module P (P11, P12, P13).

  FIG. 11A is a top view of the photoelectric conversion device 1 according to the present embodiment in a storage state, and FIG. 11B is a front view of the photoelectric conversion device 1 according to the present embodiment in a storage state.

  Here, the storage state of the photoelectric conversion device 1 corresponds to the photoelectric conversion device P of each row according to the folding direction restricted by the interface 21 from the row direction folding state shown in FIG. Together with all the photoelectric conversion modules P being folded in a row direction.

  In this example, first, the second row in which the third row of photoelectric conversion modules P (P13, P23, P33) overlapped in the vertical direction is overlapped in the vertical direction in conjunction with the folding of the first connection portion 216b of the interface 21. The photoelectric conversion module P (P12, P22, P32) is folded so as to overlap on the back side of the whole. Then, the second row photoelectric conversion modules P (P12, P13, P22, P23, P32, P33) overlapped in the up and down direction in conjunction with the folding of the first connecting portion 216a of the interface 21 are collectively made into the first row. The photoelectric conversion module P (P11, P21, P31) is in a state of being folded so as to overlap the front side of the whole.

  As described above, when the photoelectric conversion device 1 changes the use state to the storage state, the photoelectric conversion modules P together with the guide unit 40 are folded alternately in the column direction, and the photoelectric conversion modules P of all the rows are interface 21 And the interface 21 and the photoelectric conversion modules P of each column are alternately folded in the row direction, and all the photoelectric conversion modules P are overlapped. Is the preferred folding procedure.

  Next, a usage example of the photoelectric conversion device 1 according to the present embodiment will be described.

  The photoelectric conversion device 1 may include a support portion 301 that supports the photoelectric conversion device 1. Thus, for example, as shown in FIG. 12, when the user is at home, the photoelectric conversion device 1 is installed in the use state in the vicinity of the window 302 via the support portion 301. In the case where the photoelectric conversion module assembly 10 is used, for example, in a flat state on a desk or the like, the photoelectric conversion module assembly 10 takes up a place. Then, as shown in FIG. 12, space saving at the time of installation can be achieved by suspending and supporting the photoelectric conversion device 1 (the photoelectric conversion module connected body 10).

  Next, a modification of the photoelectric conversion device 1 according to the present embodiment will be described.

  In the photoelectric conversion device 1, the respective second rigid members 41 constituting the guiding portion 40 do not necessarily have to be directly connected to the photoelectric conversion modules P arranged at the row direction end of the photoelectric conversion module combination 10. For example, as shown in FIG. 13, they may be connected indirectly via the flexible member 43 (Modification 1).

  Further, in the photoelectric conversion device 1, each second rigid member 41 constituting the guiding portion 40 needs to extend over the entire side surface of the photoelectric conversion module P disposed at the row direction end of the photoelectric conversion module combination 10. Alternatively, as shown in FIG. 14, for example, as long as it is connected to the second connection portion 42, it may not be provided in other places (Modification 2). Thereby, size reduction and weight reduction of the photoelectric conversion device 1 can be achieved.

  Further, in the photoelectric conversion device 1, the second connection member Q does not necessarily have to be provided between all the photoelectric conversion modules P. For example, as shown in FIG. 15, other than between photoelectric conversion modules P in the row farthest from the interface 21 The second connecting member Q may not be provided (Modification 3). Thereby, size reduction and weight reduction of the photoelectric conversion device 1 can be achieved.

  Further, in the photoelectric conversion device 1, for example, as shown in FIG. 16, the guide portion 40 and the interface 21 may be connected to each other, or may be integrally formed (Modification 4). Thereby, the whole photoelectric conversion device 1 is stabilized, and the handleability is improved.

  Here, referring to FIG. 17 and FIG. 18, in the photoelectric conversion device 1 according to the fourth modification, the interface 21 is a lock mechanism for holding the first rigid members 211 in a linearly expanded state. An example (part 1) to be provided will be described. In addition, in FIG. 17, illustration is abbreviate | omitted about components other than the interface 21 and the guide part 40 for simplicity.

  As shown in FIG. 17, the first rigid member 211 a constituting the interface 21 includes a switch 221 projecting to a place where the second rigid member 41 b constituting the guiding portion 40 is disposed in the folded state. In the state shown in FIG. 17, the first rigid members 211a and 211b are held in the linearly expanded state and can not be folded. However, when the guide portion 40 is folded and the switch 221 is pushed into the inside of the first rigid member 211a by the second rigid member 41b, the holding of the linearly spread first rigid members 211a and 211b is released. , Can be folded.

  Next, the mechanism of such a lock mechanism will be described with reference to FIG. The lock mechanism 217 includes an engagement protrusion 218, a locking recess 219, and a switch 221. The engagement protrusion 218 is provided inside the first rigid member 211 a and biased in the same direction by a biasing member 222 biased in the direction of the switch 221 (downward direction in FIG. 18) by the elastic member.

  Further, a path constraining portion 223 formed in, for example, a groove shape is provided inside the first rigid member 211a, and the engaging projection 218 is restricted in the path by, for example, inserting a protrusion into the path constraining portion 223 There is.

  Specifically, when the engagement protrusion 218 is biased by the biasing member 222 and moves in the direction of the switch 221, it simultaneously moves in the right direction in FIG. 18 and is a recess provided in the first rigid member 211b. A part is inserted into a certain locking recess 219 (FIG. 18A). As a result, the first rigid members 211a and 211b are held in the linearly expanded state.

  Also, when the switch 221 is pushed into the inside of the first rigid member 211a, when the engagement protrusion 218 moves in the direction opposite to the direction of the switch 221, it simultaneously moves in the left direction in FIG. (FIG. 18 (b)). As a result, the holding of the first rigid members 211a and 211b in the linearly expanded state is released.

  As described above, the first rigid members 211a and 211b are held in the linearly expanded state when the guide 40 is not in the folded state, but the guide 40 is in the folded state and the switch 221 is not in the folded state. When the first rigid member 211a is pushed in, the holding of the first rigid members 211a and 211b in the linearly expanded state is released. Therefore, the user can be guided to a suitable folding procedure in which the guide portion 40 is folded and then the interface 21 is folded without making the operation complicated.

  Here, referring to FIG. 19 and FIG. 20, in the photoelectric conversion device 1 according to the fourth modification, the interface 21 is a lock mechanism for holding the first rigid members 211 in a linearly expanded state. An example (part 2) provided will be described. In addition, in FIG. 19, illustration is abbreviate | omitted about components other than the interface 21 and the guide part 40 for simplicity.

  As shown in FIG. 19, the second rigid member 41 a constituting the guide portion 40 includes a switch 44 projecting to a place where the second rigid member 41 b is disposed in the use state. In the state shown in FIG. 19, the holding of the first rigid members 211 a and 211 b in the linearly expanded state is released and can be folded. However, when the guide portion 40 is in use and the switch 44 is pushed into the second rigid member 41a by the second rigid member 41b, the holding of the first rigid members 211a and 211b in the linearly extended state is released. And can be folded.

  Next, the mechanism of such a lock mechanism will be described with reference to FIG. The lock mechanism 217 includes a switch 44, a connecting rod 45, an engagement protrusion 218, a locking recess 219, and a shaft portion 224.

  The switch 44, the connecting rod 45, the shaft portion 224 and the engagement protrusion 218 are connected in this order. The shaft portion 224 is rotatable around its axis in the vertical direction. The switch 44 is biased by a resilient member in a direction (discharge direction) to be discharged from the second rigid member 41 a.

  In a state where no external force is applied to the switch 44, as shown in FIG. 20A, the switch 44 protrudes in the discharge direction by the elastic member, and the engagement protrusion 218 is out of the locking recess 219. . As a result, the holding of the first rigid members 211a and 211b in the linearly extended state is released.

  On the other hand, when an external force is applied to the switch 44 and the switch 44 is pushed in the direction of the rigid member 41a, as shown in FIG. As a result, the shaft portion 224 rotates clockwise in FIG. 20, and in conjunction with this, the engagement protrusion 218 moves in the direction of the first rigid member 211 b and is inserted into the locking recess 219. As a result, the state in which the first rigid members 211a and 211b are linearly extended is held.

  As described above, when the guide portion 40 is in use, that is, in the expanded state, the switch 44 is pushed into the inside of the second rigid member 41a, and the linearly expanded state of the first rigid members 211a and 211b is obtained. Although held, when the guide portion 40 is in a state other than the use state, the holding of the linearly spread first rigid members 211a and 211b is released. Therefore, it is possible to guide the user to a preferred folding method of folding the interface 21 after folding the guide portion 40.

  The photoelectric conversion module P included in the photoelectric conversion device 1 has been described as being rectangular in the top view, but is not limited to such a shape, for example, a polygon such as a hexagon or a circle as shown in FIG. It may be

  In addition, the photoelectric conversion module combination body 10 and the main body 20 included in the photoelectric conversion device 1 may be configured to be removable from each other via the photoelectric conversion module IF 12 and the interface 21. The mechanism of detachment is not particularly limited. For example, as shown in FIG. 22, the photoelectric conversion module IF 12 has a guide 121 and a connector 122 provided at the tip of the guide 121, and the interface 21 is shown in FIG. As shown in the drawing, the guide rail 212 may have a shape that restricts the guide 121 to movement in only one direction, and the main body side connector 213 to which the connector 122 can be connected.

  In this case, the connector 121 of the photoelectric conversion module IF 12 and the main body side connector 213 of the interface 21 are connected by sliding and inserting the guide 121 of the photoelectric conversion module IF 12 in a state of being fitted on the guide rails 212 of the interface 21. Ru. As a result, the photoelectric conversion module IF 12 and the interface 21 are physically connected between the guide 121 and the guide rail 212 and electrically connected between the connector 122 and the main body side connector 213.

  Further, as shown in FIGS. 24 and 25, in the photoelectric conversion device 1, the photoelectric conversion modules P arranged at the end in the column direction may be directly connected to the interface 21 without passing through the photoelectric conversion module IF 12. At this time, for example, as shown in FIG. 24, in order to prevent the first connecting member 13 between the photoelectric conversion modules P in the second and third rows from coming into contact with the interface 21 in the storage state, The conversion modules P (P11, P12, P13) may be configured to be longer in the column direction than the other photoelectric conversion modules P. By directly connecting the photoelectric conversion module P to the interface 21 as described above, it is possible to suppress the occurrence of a twist between the photoelectric conversion module P and the interface 21.

  In addition, as shown in FIG. 25, for example, the photoelectric conversion device 1 prevents the first connection member 13 between the photoelectric conversion modules P in the second and third rows from contacting the interface 21 in the storage state. A recess may be formed in part of the interface 21 to accommodate the first connection member 13. As a result, in addition to the fact that twisting between the photoelectric conversion module P and the interface 21 can be suppressed, the further miniaturization of the photoelectric conversion device 1 can be achieved.

  In addition, the photoelectric conversion device 1 may function as a first guiding unit that guides the folding direction of the photoelectric conversion device 1 in the row direction by leaving bending creases in the specific direction in the first connection portion 216. . Specifically, bending thorns can be left by, for example, storing the shape of the first connecting portion 216 so as to be easily bent to either the front side or the back side. In this case, it is preferable to use, for example, a resin, cloth, leather, or the like as the covering member in order to allow the first connecting portion 216 to leave a bending crease.

  Furthermore, the photoelectric conversion device 1 may function as a second guiding unit that guides the folding direction of the photoelectric conversion device 1 in the column direction by leaving bending rods in the specific direction in the first connection member 13. . Specifically, the bending defect can be left by storing, for example, a curved shape so that the first connection member 13 is easily bent to either the front side or the back side.

  In this case, it is preferable to use, for example, a resin, cloth, leather, or the like as the covering member for the first connecting member 13 in order to leave a bending crease. In addition, when making the 1st connection member 13 function as a 2nd induction | guidance | derivation means, the photoelectric conversion apparatus 1 does not necessarily need to be equipped with the guide part 40. FIG.

  The foregoing merely shows one embodiment of the present invention, and it goes without saying that various modifications may be added within the scope of the claims. For example, although arrangement | positioning of each photoelectric conversion module P, the 2nd connection member Q, etc. was demonstrated using a row | line and a column, a row | line and a row | line | column are specified for convenience of explanation, You may replace these mutually. Moreover, although it demonstrated using photoelectric conversion module connection body 10 which made photoelectric conversion module P the arrangement | positioning of 3 rows 3 columns, the number of lines and the number of columns of photoelectric conversion module P shall be arbitrary integers of 2 or more, respectively. Can.

  According to the present invention, it is possible to provide a photoelectric conversion device capable of improving the storability at the time of non-use and downsizing at the time of use.

Reference Signs List 1 photoelectric conversion device 10 photoelectric conversion module connected body 11 photoelectric conversion module group 12 photoelectric conversion module IF
13 first connecting member 14 solar cell panel 20 main body 21 interface 22 step-up circuit unit 23 photoelectric conversion module voltage detection unit 24 AC adapter voltage detection unit 25 rechargeable battery 26 external interface 27 charge and discharge control circuit 28 controller 30 AC adapter 31 outlet 32 AC / DC converter 40 Guide (second induction means)
41 second rigid member 42 second connecting portion 43 flexible member 44 switch 45 connecting rod 121 guide 122 connector 211 first rigid member (first guiding means)
212 guide rail 213 main body side connector 216 first connecting portion (first guiding means)
217 Locking mechanism 218 Engaging projection 219 Locking recess 220 Operation part (releasing means)
221 Switch (cancellation means)
222 biasing member 223 path restraint portion 224 shaft portion 301 support portion 302 window 421 connection member 422 reverse bending prevention mechanism M magnet P photoelectric conversion module Q second connection member

Claims (13)

A plurality of thin panel photoelectric conversion modules arranged in a matrix, a first connecting member mechanically and electrically connecting the photoelectric conversion modules in the column direction, and a mechanical connection of the photoelectric conversion modules in the row direction And a second connecting member to be connected, wherein the photoelectric conversion module coupled body is foldable between the adjacent photoelectric conversion modules;
An interface mechanically and electrically connected to the plurality of photoelectric conversion modules arranged at the column direction end of the photoelectric conversion module combination, and foldable by a width corresponding to the width of the photoelectric conversion modules in the row direction A body comprising
A photoelectric conversion device comprising
The interface comprises a first guiding means for guiding the folding direction in the row direction,
The photoelectric conversion module combination includes a second guiding unit that guides the folding direction in the column direction.
Photoelectric conversion device.   The second induction means is mechanically connected to the plurality of photoelectric conversion modules disposed at the row direction end of the photoelectric conversion module combination, and is folded with a width corresponding to the width of the photoelectric conversion modules in the column direction The photoelectric conversion device according to claim 1, which is a guide portion which is possible and whose folding direction is limited to either one of the front side and the back side. The guide unit is
A plurality of second rigid members mechanically connected to the plurality of photoelectric conversion modules disposed at the row direction end of the photoelectric conversion module combination;
A second connecting portion that mechanically connects the plurality of second rigid members in a foldable manner and restricts the folding direction to either the front side or the back side;
The photoelectric conversion device according to claim 2, comprising:   The photoelectric conversion device according to claim 3, wherein the second connection portion is a hinge.   The photoelectric conversion device according to any one of claims 2 to 4, wherein the first guiding means limits the folding direction of the interface to either one of the front side and the back side. Said interface is
A plurality of first rigid members mechanically and electrically connected to the plurality of photoelectric conversion modules disposed at the column direction end of the photoelectric conversion module combination;
A first coupling portion that foldably and mechanically and electrically connects the plurality of first rigid members and restricts the folding direction to either the front side or the back side;
The photoelectric conversion device according to claim 5, comprising:   The photoelectric conversion device according to claim 6, wherein the interface includes a lock mechanism for holding the first rigid member in a linearly expanded state.   The photoelectric conversion device according to claim 7, wherein the lock mechanism releases the holding of the expanded state by a release operation different from an operation of folding the first rigid member.   The lock mechanism holds the expanded state in a state in which the guide portion is expanded, and releases the holding of the expanded state in conjunction with the state in which the guide portion is in a state other than the expanded state or in a folded state. The photoelectric conversion device according to claim 7 or 8.   The photoelectric conversion device according to claim 6, wherein the first guiding unit is to leave a bending rod in a specific direction in the first connection portion.   The photoelectric conversion device according to claim 1, wherein the second guiding unit is to leave a bending rod in a specific direction in the first connection member.   The photoelectric conversion device according to any one of claims 1 to 11, wherein the photoelectric conversion module combination is detachable from the interface.   The photoelectric conversion device according to any one of claims 1 to 12, further comprising a support capable of suspending and supporting the photoelectric conversion device.

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