WO2023228950A1

WO2023228950A1 - Solar cell module

Info

Publication number: WO2023228950A1
Application number: PCT/JP2023/019200
Authority: WO
Inventors: 良太手島; 佑太西尾
Original assignee: 京セラ株式会社
Priority date: 2022-05-27
Filing date: 2023-05-23
Publication date: 2023-11-30

Abstract

A solar cell module (100) is equipped with a first protective layer (1), a solar cell unit (3), one or more support members (5) and a filling material (4). The first protective layer (1) has a first surface (1f) and a second surface (1s), which is on the reverse side of the first surface (1f). The solar cell unit (3) is positioned so as to face the second surface (1s) of the first protective layer (1). The one or more support members (5) are positioned so as to be adjacent to the solar cell unit (3). The support members (5) include an inside section (51) and an outside section (52). The inside section (51) is positioned so as to face the second surface (1s) of the first protective layer (1). The outside section (52) is positioned so as to extend from the inside section (51) to the outside of the first protective layer (1). The filling material (4) is positioned so as to contact the second surface (1s) of the first protective layer (1). The filling material (4) is positioned so as to cover the solar cell unit (3). The filling material (4) is positioned so as to protrude to the outside of the first protective layer (1) when seen in a planar view from between the second surface (1s) of the first protective layer (1) and the support member (5).

Description

solar module

Cross-reference of related applications

This application claims priority to Japanese Application No. 2022-086773 (filed on May 27, 2022), and the entire disclosure of the application is incorporated herein by reference.

The present disclosure relates to a solar cell module.

A solar cell module is known in which a plurality of solar cell elements arranged in a plane and electrically connected are located between a front protective layer and a back protective layer (see, for example, the description in Patent Document 1). ). In this solar cell module, a plurality of solar cell elements are covered with a filler whose main component is ethylene vinyl acetate copolymer (EVA).

International Publication No. 2021/070743

A solar cell module is disclosed.

In one embodiment, the solar cell module includes a first protective layer, a solar cell section, one or more support members, and a filler. The first protective layer has a first surface and a second surface opposite to the first surface. The solar cell section is located facing the second surface of the first protective layer. The one or more support members are positioned adjacent to the solar cell section. The support member includes an inner portion and an outer portion. The inner portion is located opposite the second surface of the first protective layer. The outer portion extends from the inner portion to the outside of the first protective layer. The filler material is located in contact with the second surface of the first protective layer. The filler is positioned to cover the solar cell section. The filler is located between the second surface of the first protective layer and the support member so as to protrude to the outside of the first protective layer in plan view.

FIG. 1 is a plan view showing an example of the external appearance of the solar cell module according to the first embodiment when viewed from above. FIG. 2 is a diagram illustrating an example of a virtual cross section of the solar cell module in FIG. 1 taken along line II-II. FIG. 3A is a diagram illustrating an example of the structure of the solar cell element when viewed from above on the first element surface. FIG. 3(b) is a diagram illustrating an example of the structure when the second element surface of the solar cell element is viewed from above. FIGS. 4A to 4C are diagrams each illustrating a state of a cross section during manufacture in the method for manufacturing a solar cell module according to the first embodiment. FIG. 5 is a diagram illustrating a bent state of the solar cell module according to the first embodiment. FIG. 6 is a diagram showing an example of a virtual cut surface of the solar cell module according to the second embodiment. FIGS. 7A and 7B are diagrams each illustrating a cross-sectional state during manufacturing in the method for manufacturing a solar cell module according to the second embodiment. FIG. 8 is a diagram illustrating an example of the external appearance of the solar cell module according to the third embodiment when viewed from above. FIG. 9 is a diagram illustrating an example of the external appearance of the solar cell module according to the fourth embodiment when viewed from above. FIG. 10A is a plan view showing an example of the external appearance of the solar cell module according to the fifth embodiment when viewed from above. FIG. 10(b) is a diagram showing an example of a virtual cut surface of the solar cell module of FIG. 10(a) along the line Xb-Xb. FIG. 11A is a plan view showing an example of the external appearance of the solar cell module according to the sixth embodiment when viewed from above. FIG. 11(b) is a diagram showing an example of a virtual cut surface of the solar cell module of FIG. 11(a) along the line XIb-XIb. FIG. 12A is a diagram illustrating an example of the structure of the solar cell section according to the sixth embodiment when viewed from above. FIG. 12(b) is a diagram showing an example of a hypothetical cut plane along the line XIIb-XIIb of the solar cell portion of FIG. 12(a).

The inventor has created a technology that reduces the possibility that a protective layer will peel off from a filler in a solar cell module. Regarding this, the first to sixth embodiments will be described below based on the drawings.

In the drawings, parts having the same or similar configurations and functions are designated by the same reference numerals, and redundant description will be omitted in the following description. The drawings are shown schematically. A right-handed XYZ coordinate system is attached to FIGS. 1 to 12(b). In this XYZ coordinate system, the short direction of the front surface 10f of the solar panel 10 is the +X direction, the longitudinal direction of the front surface 10f is the +Y direction, and the normal to the front surface 10f is orthogonal to both the +X direction and the +Y direction. The direction is the +Z direction.

<1. First embodiment>
<1-1. Solar cell module＞
A solar cell module 100 according to a first embodiment will be described based on FIGS. 1 to 3(b).

As shown in FIGS. 1 and 2, the solar cell module 100 includes, for example, a solar cell panel 10. The solar cell panel 10 has, for example, a light-receiving surface (also referred to as a front surface) 10f through which light mainly enters, and a back surface 10b located on the opposite side of the front surface 10f. In the first embodiment, the front surface 10f is in a state facing the +Z direction. The back surface 10b is in a state facing the -Z direction. The +Z direction is set, for example, in a direction facing the sun, which is in the south. In the example of FIG. 1, the front surface 10f has a rectangular shape, which is an example of a rectangular shape.

The solar cell module 100 may further include a terminal box (not shown) for extracting the power generated by the solar cell panel 10 to the outside.

As shown in FIGS. 1 and 2, the solar cell panel 10 includes, for example, a first protective layer 1, a second protective layer 2, a solar cell part 3, a filler 4, and a support member 5. We are prepared.

<1-1-1. First protective layer>
The first protective layer 1 has, for example, a first surface 1f and a second surface 1s (see FIG. 2). In the first embodiment, the first surface 1f constitutes, for example, the front surface 10f of the solar cell panel 10. That is, the first protective layer 1 has a rectangular shape, which is an example of a rectangular shape. In the example of FIG. 1, the first protective layer 1 has edges 1a to 1d. The edge 1a to edge 1d correspond to each side of the rectangular shape of the first protective layer 1, respectively. The edge 1a and the edge 1b are located on both sides of the first protective layer 1 in the X direction, respectively. The edge 1a and the edge 1b extend, for example, along the +Y direction and are substantially parallel to each other. The edge 1c and the edge 1d are located on both sides of the first protective layer 1 in the Y direction, respectively. The end edge 1c extends, for example, along the +X direction, and connects the end of the end edge 1a in the +Y direction and the end of the end edge 1b in the +Y direction. The end edge 1d extends, for example, along the +X direction, and connects the end of the end edge 1a in the −Y direction and the end of the end edge 1b in the −Y direction. The edge 1c and the edge 1d are, for example, substantially parallel to each other. In the examples shown in FIGS. 1 and 2, the first surface 1f is exposed to a space (also referred to as external space) 200 outside the solar cell module 100. Further, the second surface 1s is a surface opposite to the first surface 1f.

The first protective layer 1 has, for example, light-transmitting properties. Specifically, the first protective layer 1 has, for example, transparency to light having a wavelength in a specific range. The specific range of wavelengths includes, for example, the wavelength of light that can be photoelectrically converted by the solar cell unit 3. If the wavelengths in the specific range include wavelengths of sunlight with high irradiation intensity, the photoelectric conversion efficiency of the solar cell module 100 can be improved.

As the material of the first protective layer 1, for example, a resin having weather resistance is applied. In other words, the first protective layer 1 is made of, for example, a weather-resistant resin. Here, the term "weather resistance" refers to a property that does not easily cause alterations such as deformation, discoloration, and deterioration when used outdoors, for example. By applying resin to the material of the first protective layer 1, the first protective layer 1 has, for example, moisture-permeable and waterproof properties. Therefore, the first protective layer 1 can reduce the intrusion of water such as water droplets from the external space 200 of the solar cell module 100 toward the solar cell section 3, and can reduce the amount of moisture that enters the external space 200 from the filler 4. can be passed. Here, the weather-resistant resin includes, for example, a fluorine-based resin. Fluorine-based resins include, for example, fluorinated ethylene propylene copolymer (FEP), ethylene tetrafluoroethylene copolymer (ETFE), and ethylene chlorotrifluoroethylene copolymer (Ethylene Chlorotrifluoroethylene). :ECTFE) etc. Here, for example, the first protective layer 1 may be composed of two or more layers of resin having weather resistance. In this case, the fluorine-based resin applied to the first protective layer 1 may be, for example, two or more types of resin. For this reason, for example, a mode is conceivable in which the fluororesin applied to the first protective layer 1 includes at least one resin among FEP, ETFE, and ECTFE.

The thickness of the first protective layer 1 is, for example, about 0.05 millimeter (mm) to 0.5 mm. In this way, the first protective layer 1 is made of a moisture-permeable and waterproof resin with a relatively low density, and is thin, so the first protective layer 1 is light. Therefore, the weight of the solar cell module 100 can be reduced compared to, for example, a structure in which high-density glass having a thickness of about 1 mm or more is used instead of the first protective layer 1. 100 can be made into a thin film.

Note that as the material for the first protective layer 1, resins such as acrylic resin and polycarbonate can be used instead of or together with the fluorine resin. When acrylic resin and polycarbonate are used, the thickness of the resin is, for example, about 0.03 mm to 0.6 mm. The first protective layer 1 may be formed by laminating multiple types of resins.

<1-1-2. Solar cell department>
The solar cell section 3 is located, for example, between the first protective layer 1 and the second protective layer 2. In other words, the solar cell section 3 is in a state facing the first protective layer 1 in the Z direction, and is also in a state facing the second protective layer 2 in the Z direction. As shown in FIGS. 1 and 2, the solar cell section 3 includes, for example, a plurality of solar cell elements 31. The plurality of solar cell elements 31 are located between the second surface 1s of the first protective layer 1 and the second protective layer 2. In the first embodiment, the plurality of solar cell elements 31 are two-dimensionally arranged. In the examples of FIGS. 1 and 2, the plurality of solar cell elements 31 are arranged in a plane along the second surface 1s of the first protective layer 1. Note that the plurality of solar cell elements 31 may be arranged one-dimensionally.

The solar cell section 3 further includes, for example, a plurality of first wiring members 32, a second wiring member 33, and a third wiring member 34. The solar cell section 3 includes, for example, a plurality of (here, two) solar cell strings 30. For example, the plurality of solar cell strings 30 are arranged in the X direction. Each of the plurality of solar cell strings 30 includes, for example, a plurality of (here, six) solar cell elements 31 and a plurality of first wiring members 32. In each solar cell string 30, the plurality of solar cell elements 31 are arranged in the Y direction, for example. For example, the plurality of first wiring members 32 are in a state of electrically connecting two mutually adjacent solar cell elements 31 among the plurality of solar cell elements 31. The second wiring member 33 is in a state of electrically connecting two mutually adjacent solar cell strings 30. In the example of FIGS. 1 and 2, the two third wiring members 34 are connected to two solar cell strings 30, respectively, and are drawn out to the outside of the solar cell panel 10.

Each of the plurality of solar cell elements 31 can convert light energy into electrical energy. Each of the plurality of solar cell elements 31 has a first element surface 31f and a second element surface 31s. The first element surface 31f is a surface of the solar cell element 31 located on the front surface side. The second element surface 31s is a surface of the solar cell element 31 opposite to the first element surface 31f. In the example of FIG. 2, the first element surface 31f is in a state facing the +Z direction, and the second element surface 31s is in a state facing the -Z direction. In this case, for example, the first element surface 31f primarily serves as a surface onto which light is incident (also referred to as a light-receiving surface), and the second element surface 31s primarily serves as a surface onto which light does not enter (also referred to as a non-light-receiving surface). ).

In the first embodiment, as shown in FIGS. 3(a) and 3(b), each of the plurality of solar cell elements 31 includes a semiconductor substrate 310, a first extraction electrode 311, and a first current collecting electrode. 312, a second extraction electrode 313, and a second current collection electrode 314.

For example, a crystalline semiconductor, an amorphous semiconductor, or a compound semiconductor is applied to the semiconductor substrate 310. The crystalline semiconductor includes, for example, crystalline silicon. Amorphous semiconductors include, for example, amorphous silicon. As the compound semiconductor, for example, a semiconductor using four types of elements, copper, indium, gallium, and selenium, or a semiconductor using two types of elements, cadmium and tellurium, is applied. Here, it is assumed that crystalline silicon is applied to the semiconductor substrate 310. In this case, the semiconductor substrate 310 mainly includes a region having a first conductivity type (also referred to as a first conductivity type region) and a region having a second conductivity type opposite to the first conductivity type (a second conductivity type region). ). The first conductivity type region is located, for example, on the second element surface 31s side of the semiconductor substrate 310 in the −Z direction. The second conductivity type region is located, for example, in the surface layer portion of the semiconductor substrate 310 on the first element surface 31f side in the +Z direction. Here, for example, when the first conductivity type is p-type, the second conductivity type is n-type. Furthermore, for example, when the first conductivity type is n-type, the second conductivity type is p-type. Accordingly, the semiconductor substrate 310 has a pn junction located at the interface between the first conductivity type region and the second conductivity type region. The thickness of the semiconductor substrate 310 is, for example, approximately 0.15 mm to 0.5 mm.

The first extraction electrode 311 and the first current collecting electrode 312 are located, for example, on the surface of the semiconductor substrate 310 on the first element surface 31f side. For example, a bus bar electrode is applied to the first extraction electrode 311. For example, a finger electrode is applied to the first current collecting electrode 312. In the example of FIG. 3A, five substantially parallel first extraction electrodes 311 are located on the first element surface 31f side of the semiconductor substrate 310, and a large number of substantially parallel first current collecting electrodes 312 are located on the first element surface 31f side of the semiconductor substrate 310. It is located substantially perpendicular to the five first extraction electrodes 311 . In the example of FIG. 3A, each of the first extraction electrodes 311 has a long shape in the Y direction, and each of the first current collecting electrodes 312 has a long linear shape in the X direction. have. Furthermore, for example, an antireflection film 315 may be located on a region of the second conductivity type region of the semiconductor substrate 310 where the first extraction electrode 311 and the first current collection electrode 312 are not formed. . The antireflection film 315 includes an insulating film made of silicon nitride or the like. Here, the main component of the first extraction electrode 311 is, for example, silver. The term "main component" refers to a component that has the largest (highest) ratio (also referred to as content) among the contained components. In this case, the first extraction electrode 311 can be formed by applying silver paste into a desired shape by screen printing or the like and then firing it. For example, a metal paste containing a metal powder containing silver as a main component, an organic vehicle, and a glass frit is applied to the silver paste. The main component of the first current collecting electrode 312 is also silver, for example. In this case, like the first extraction electrode 311, the first current collecting electrode 312 can be formed by applying silver paste into a desired shape by screen printing or the like and then firing it. The first extraction electrode 311 and the first current collecting electrode 312 may be formed in separate steps or in the same step, for example.

The second extraction electrode 313 and the second current collection electrode 314 are located, for example, on the surface of the semiconductor substrate 310 on the second element surface 31s side. For example, a busbar electrode is applied to the second extraction electrode 313. In the example of FIG. 3B, the second extraction electrodes 313 are arranged in a matrix of 4 rows and 5 columns on the second element surface 31s side of the semiconductor substrate 310. Each of the second extraction electrodes 313 has an elongated shape that is long in the Y direction. The second current collecting electrode 314 is located on the second element surface 31s side of the semiconductor substrate 310 over substantially the entire area where the second extraction electrode 313 is not formed. In plan view, the peripheral edge of each second extraction electrode 313 may overlap with the second current collecting electrode 314. Thereby, the connection between each second extraction electrode 313 and the second current collecting electrode 314 can be improved. A passivation film may be present in a desired pattern between the first conductivity type region of the semiconductor substrate 310 and the pair of the second extraction electrode 313 and the second current collection electrode 314. The passivation film is, for example, a thin film of oxide or nitride such as aluminum oxide. Here, the main component of the second extraction electrode 313 is, for example, silver. In this case, like the first extraction electrode 311, the second extraction electrode 313 can be formed by applying silver paste into a desired shape by screen printing or the like and then firing it. The main component of the second current collecting electrode 314 is, for example, aluminum. In this case, the second current collecting electrode 314 can be formed by applying aluminum paste into a desired shape by screen printing or the like and then firing it. For example, a metal paste containing a metal powder containing aluminum as a main component, an organic vehicle, and a glass frit is applied to the aluminum paste.

The first wiring material 32 connects, for example, the first lead-out electrode 311 of one solar cell element 31 and the second lead-out electrode 313 of another solar cell element 31 adjacent to this one solar cell element 31 with electricity. is in a state where it is connected. In the examples of FIGS. 3A and 3B, the outer edges of the plurality of first wiring members 32 are virtually drawn with two-dot chain lines. In the examples shown in FIGS. 1 to 3(b), each first wiring member 32 has an elongated shape that is long in the Y direction. Here, the first wiring material 32 is in a state of being joined to the first extraction electrode 311 and the second extraction electrode 313, for example. For example, a first joint portion 321 exists between the first wiring material 32 and the first extraction electrode 311. The first joint portion 321 is a portion where the first wiring material 32 and the first extraction electrode 311 are joined. Each first wiring member 32 is in a state of being joined to the first lead-out electrode 311 of one solar cell element 31 via a first joint portion 321. Further, for example, a second joint portion 322 exists between the first wiring material 32 and the second extraction electrode 313. The second joint portion 322 is a portion where the first wiring material 32 and the second extraction electrode 313 are joined. Each first wiring member 32 is in a state of being joined to the second extraction electrode 313 of another solar cell element 31 adjacent to one solar cell element 31 via a second joint portion 322 . As the first wiring material 32, for example, a linear or band-shaped electrically conductive metal body is applied. As the material for the first joint portion 321 and the second joint portion 322, for example, a low melting point alloy such as solder or a low melting point single metal is applied. More specifically, for example, a copper foil having a thickness of about 0.1 mm to 0.2 mm and a width of about 1 mm to 2 mm is applied to the first wiring material 32, and solder is applied to the entire surface of the first wiring material 32. is covered. The first wiring material 32 is in a state of being electrically connected to the first extraction electrode 311 and the second extraction electrode 313, for example, by soldering. In this case, for example, the solder located between the first wiring material 32 and the first extraction electrode 311 constitutes the first joint portion 321. Further, for example, the solder located between the first wiring material 32 and the second extraction electrode 313 constitutes the second joint portion 322 .

<1-1-3. Filling material>
The filler 4 is in a state covering the solar cell part 3 between the first protective layer 1 and the second protective layer 2. In other words, the filler 4 is in a state covering the plurality of solar cell elements 31 between the first protective layer 1 and the second protective layer 2. From another point of view, the filler 4 is filled in, for example, a region (also referred to as a gap region) 10g between the first protective layer 1 and the second protective layer 2 while covering the solar cell part 3. in a state.

The filler 4 has a first surface 4f located on the front surface, and a second surface 4s located on the opposite side to the first surface 4f. The first surface 4f of the filler 4 is in contact with the second surface 1s of the first protective layer 1, and the second surface 4s of the filler 4 is in contact with the second protective layer 2.

In the first embodiment, the filler 4 includes a first filler 41 and a second filler 42. The first filler 41 is located on the front surface 10f side with respect to the second filler 42, for example. Conversely, the second filler 42 is located on the back surface 10b side with respect to the first filler 41. The first filler 41 is in a state of forming, for example, the first surface 4f, and is in a state of covering the entire surface of the solar cell section 3 on the first protective layer 1 side. In other words, the first filler 41 is in a state covering the plurality of solar cell elements 31, for example, between the first protective layer 1 and the plurality of solar cell elements 31. The second filler 42 is in a state of forming, for example, the second surface 4s, and is in a state of covering the entire surface of the solar cell section 3 on the second protective layer 2 side. In other words, the second filler 42 is in a state of covering the plurality of solar cell elements 31, for example, between the second protective layer 2 and the plurality of solar cell elements 31. Therefore, in the first embodiment, the solar cell section 3 is in a state of being sandwiched and surrounded by the first filler 41 and the second filler 42, for example. Thereby, for example, the attitude of the solar cell section 3 can be maintained by the filler 4.

Furthermore, the filler 4 has, for example, translucency. Here, the filler 4 has, for example, translucency to light having a wavelength in the above-mentioned specific range. Here, for example, if at least the first filler 41 of the first filler 41 and the second filler 42 constituting the filler 4 has translucency, the incident light from the front surface 10f side , can reach up to the solar cell section 3.

As the material for the first filler 41, for example, ethylene vinyl acetate copolymer (EVA), polyvinyl acetal such as polyvinyl butyral (PVB), acid-modified resin, etc. are used. Here, for example, if relatively inexpensive EVA is used as the material of the first filler 41, the performance of protecting the plurality of solar cell elements 31 can be easily achieved. The acid-modified resin includes, for example, a modified polyolefin resin that can be formed by graft modification of a resin such as polyolefin with an acid. Examples of acids that can be used for graft modification of acid-modified resins include acrylic acid, methacrylic acid, maleic acid, fumaric acid, itaconic acid, maleic anhydride, hymic anhydride, itaconic anhydride, and citraconic anhydride. Ru. As the material for the second filler 42, for example, like the first filler 41, polyvinyl acetal such as EVA and PVB, acid-modified resin, etc. are used. The first filler 41 and the second filler 42 may be made of two or more types of materials, for example.

The second filler 42 may contain, for example, a pigment. For example, when a white pigment is included, the light transmitted through the solar cell section 3 can be reflected by the second filler 42 and made to enter the solar cell section 3 again. Thereby, the power generation efficiency of the solar cell module 100 can be improved.

Note that the filler 4 may not include the second filler 42 and may include only the first filler 41. In this case, the first filler 41 covers the solar cell section 3 between the first protective layer 1 and the second protective layer 2.

<1-1-4. Back protective layer＞
The second protective layer 2 is in a state of forming the back surface 10b of the solar cell panel 10, for example. The second protective layer 2 is, for example, in a state facing the second surface 1s of the first protective layer 1. The second protective layer 2 is in contact with the filler 4 on the side opposite to the first protective layer 1 with respect to the filler 4 . The second protective layer 2 is located, for example, facing the solar cell section 3 and the inner portion 51 of the support member 5 in the Z direction. As will be described later, the inner portion 51 is a portion of the support member 5 on the solar cell section 3 side with respect to the outer portion 52 in the X direction.

The second protective layer 2 can, for example, protect the solar cell section 3 from the back surface 10b side. For example, a back sheet forming the back surface 10b is applied to the second protective layer 2. The thickness of the back sheet is, for example, about 0.15 mm to 0.5 mm. For example, resin is used as the material for the back sheet. For example, the same material as the first protective layer 1 can be applied to the resin. The second protective layer 2 has the same or similar shape to the first protective layer 1 when viewed in plan from the back surface 10b side. For example, a configuration is assumed in which both the first protective layer 1 and the second protective layer 2 have a rectangular outer shape when viewed from the rear surface 10b side. As shown in FIGS. 1 and 2, the second protective layer 2 has edges 2a to 2d. The edge 2a to edge 2d correspond to each side of the rectangular shape of the second protective layer 2, respectively. The edge 2a and the edge 2b are located on both sides of the second protective layer 2 in the X direction, respectively. The edge 2a and the edge 2b extend, for example, along the +Y direction and are substantially parallel to each other. The edge 2c and the edge 2d are located on both sides of the second protective layer 2 in the Y direction, respectively. The edge 2c extends, for example, along the +X direction, and connects the edge 2a in the +Y direction and the edge 2b in the +Y direction. The end edge 2d extends, for example, along the +X direction, and connects the end of the end edge 2a in the −Y direction and the end of the end edge 2b in the −Y direction. The edge 2c and the edge 2d are, for example, substantially parallel to each other.

<1-1-5. Support member>
The support member 5 is a member for improving the rigidity of the solar cell panel 10, and has higher rigidity than all of the first protective layer 1, second protective layer 2, and filler 4, for example. . For example, metal can be used as the material of the support member 5, and as a more specific example, aluminum or stainless steel can be used.

When viewed from above toward the main surface of the surface protection layer 1, the support member 5 is located adjacent to the solar cell section 3 with an interval therebetween. In other words, the support member 5 is located adjacent to the solar cell section 3 with an interval when viewed with the line of sight along the Z direction. Hereinafter, viewing with the line of sight along the Z direction will also simply be referred to as planar viewing. The support member 5 includes an inner portion 51 and an outer portion 52. The inner portion 51 faces the first protective layer 1 in the Z direction, and also faces the second protective layer 2 in the Z direction.

The outer portion 52 extends from the inner portion 51 to the side opposite to the solar cell section 3 (that is, to the outside). In the example of FIGS. 1 and 2, the outer portion 52 extends from the inner portion 51 to the outside of the first protective layer 1 and the second protective layer 2 in plan view. That is, the outer portion 52 is not facing the first protective layer 1 in the Z direction, nor is it facing the second protective layer 2 in the Z direction. The inner portion 51 of the support member 5 is located on the solar cell section 3 side (that is, inside) with respect to the outer portion 52 of the support member 5 in plan view.

In the examples shown in FIGS. 1 and 2, the support member 5 has a plate-like shape, and has a rectangular shape in plan view. In the example of FIG. 2, the ZX cross section of the support member 5 also has a rectangular shape. The corners of the support member 5 may be chamfered as appropriate. The longitudinal direction (here, the Y direction) of the support member 5 is, for example, along the edge 1a, which is one side of the first protective layer 1. Further, the longitudinal direction of the support member 5 is, for example, along the arrangement direction (here, the Y direction) of the plurality of solar cell elements 31 included in one solar cell string 30. That is, the longitudinal direction of the support member 5 is along, for example, the longitudinal direction of the first wiring member 32 (here, the Y direction).

In the example of FIGS. 1 and 2, the solar panel 10 includes two support members 5. The two support members 5 are located along the edge 1a and the edge 1b of the first protective layer 1, respectively. That is, one support member 5 is located at the edge 1a of the first protective layer 1, and the other support member 5 is located at the edge 1b of the first protective layer 1. Each support member 5 has a rectangular shape whose longitudinal direction is the Y direction. Below, one support member 5 is also called support member 5A, and the other support member 5 is also called support member 5B. According to this name, the edge 1a is the edge of the first protective layer 1 on the support member 5A side, and the edge 1b is the edge of the first protective layer 1 on the support member 5B side. I can say that. Furthermore, it can be said that the edge 2a is the edge of the second protective layer 2 on the support member 5A side, and the edge 2b is the edge of the second protective layer 2 on the support member 5B side.

The filler 4 is also located between the first protective layer 1 and the support member 5A. That is, the filler 4 is in a state filled between the first protective layer 1 and the support member 5A. Further, the filler 4 is also located between the first protective layer 1 and the support member 5B. That is, the filler 4 is in a state filled between the first protective layer 1 and the support member 5B. Therefore, the support member 5A and the support member 5B are adhesively fixed to the first protective layer 1 via the filler 4. The length of each support member 5 in the longitudinal direction (in the Y direction here) is, for example, approximately equal to the length of the first protective layer 1. The width of each support member 5 in the transverse direction (here, the X direction) is set to, for example, several tens of mm or more. The width of the inner portion 51 of each support member 5 is set, for example, to approximately 20% or more and 80% or less of the width of each support member 5. Thereby, each support member 5 can be integrated with the filler 4 with relatively high adhesive strength. The thickness of each support member 5 is larger than the thickness of the solar cell section 3, and is set to about 1 mm to 5 mm, for example.

As shown in FIGS. 1 and 2, the filler 4 protrudes from between the first protective layer 1 and the inner portion 51 of the support member 5A to the outside of the first protective layer 1 in plan view. In other words, the filler 4 extends from the edge 1a of the first protective layer 1 to the side opposite to the inner portion 51 of the support member 5A in plan view. In other words, at least a part of the edge 41a of the filler 4 on the first protective layer 1 side and on the outer portion 52 side of the support member 5A is located on the outside with respect to the edge 1a of the first protective layer 1 in plan view. It is located in As shown in FIG. 1, the filler 4 may protrude outward from the edge 1a over the entire area of the edge 1a of the first protective layer 1. In other words, the entire area of the edge 41a of the filler 4 may be located on the outside with respect to the edge 1a of the first protective layer 1. A portion of the filler 4 located outside the edge 1a of the first protective layer 1 is in contact with the outside portion 52 of the support member 5A. That is, this portion is in a state of being adhered to the outer portion 52 of the support member 5A.

The width in the X direction of the portion of the filler 4 located outside the edge 1a of the first protective layer 1 may be, for example, 0.1 mm or more, or 0.2 mm or more, It may be 0.5 mm or more, 1 mm or more, or 2 mm or more.

As shown in FIGS. 1 and 2, the filler 4 protrudes from between the first protective layer 1 and the inner portion 51 of the support member 5B to the outside of the first protective layer 1 in plan view. You can. In other words, the filler 4 may extend from the edge 1b of the first protective layer 1 to the side opposite to the inner portion 51 of the support member 5B in plan view. In other words, at least a part of the edge 41b of the filler 4 on the first protective layer 1 side and on the outer portion 52 side of the support member 5B is located on the outside with respect to the edge 1b of the first protective layer 1 in plan view. It may be located in As shown in FIG. 1, the filler 4 may protrude outward from the edge 1b over the entire area of the edge 1b of the first protective layer 1. That is, the entire area of the edge 41b of the filler 4 in the Y direction may be located outside of the edge 1b of the first protective layer 1. A portion of the filler 4 located outside the edge 1b of the first protective layer 1 is in contact with the outside portion 52 of the support member 5B. That is, this portion is in a state of being adhered to the outer portion 52 of the support member 5B.

The width in the X direction of the portion of the filler 4 located outside the edge 1b of the first protective layer 1 may be, for example, 0.1 mm or more, or 0.2 mm or more, It may be 0.5 mm or more, 1 mm or more, or 2 mm or more.

In the example of FIG. 2, the filler 4 is also located between the second protective layer 2 and the support member 5A. That is, the filler 4 is in a state filled between the second protective layer 2 and the support member 5A. Further, the filler 4 is also located between the second protective layer 2 and the support member 5B, and is in a state filled between the second protective layer 2 and the support member 5. Therefore, the support member 5A and the support member 5B are also adhesively fixed to the second protective layer 2 via the filler 4.

In the example of FIG. 2, the filler 4 is in a state of protruding from between the second protective layer 2 and the inner portion 51 of the support member 5A to the outside of the second protective layer 2 in plan view, and The second protective layer 2 protrudes from between the inner portion 51 of the support member 5B and the inner portion 51 of the support member 5B in a plan view. In other words, the filler 4 extends from the edge 2a of the second protective layer 2 to the side opposite to the inner portion 51 of the support member 5A, and from the edge 2b of the second protective layer 2 in a plan view. It extends in the opposite direction from the inner portion 51 of the support member 5B. In other words, at least a portion of the edge 42a of the filler 4 on the second protective layer 2 side and on the outer portion 52 side of the support member 5A is located on the outside with respect to the edge 2a of the second protective layer 2 in plan view. At least a part of the edge 42b of the filler 4 on the second protective layer 2 side and on the outer portion 52 side of the support member 5B is located at a distance from the edge 2b of the second protective layer 2 in plan view. It is located on the outside. The filler 4 may protrude outward in the entire area of each of the edge 2a and the edge 2b of the second protective layer 2. That is, the entire area of the edge 42a of the filler 4 in the Y direction may be located outside of the edge 2a of the second protective layer 2, and the entire area of the edge 42b of the filler 4 in the Y direction may be located outside of the edge 2a of the second protective layer 2. The region may be located outside with respect to the edge 2b of the second protective layer 2. A portion of the filler 4 located outside the second protective layer 2 is in contact with an outside portion 52 of the support member 5 . That is, this part is in a state of being adhered to the outer part 52 of the support member 5.

The width in the X direction of the portion of the filler 4 located outside the second protective layer 2 may be, for example, 0.1 mm or more, 0.2 mm or more, or 0.5 mm or more. It may be 1 mm or more, or it may be 2 mm or more.

The outer portion 52 of each support member 5 is attached to an attachment target member such as an external building material. For example, outer portion 52 may be formed with mounting holes (not shown). The attachment hole penetrates the outer portion 52 in the Z direction in a region outside the filler 4. The solar cell panel 10 can be attached to the attachment target member by passing the mounting bolts through the attachment holes and attaching the solar cell panel 10 to the attachment target member. In the examples of FIGS. 1 and 2, the two support members 5 are located on both sides of the solar panel 10, so it is possible to fix the two support members 5 on both sides of the solar panel 10 to the attachment target member. can. Therefore, the solar cell panel 10 can be more firmly attached to the attachment target member. It can also be said that the support member 5 is a mounting member.

Further, in the example of FIG. 1, the support members 5, which are rigid bodies, are not mainly located on both sides of the solar cell panel 10 in the Y direction. That is, the supporting member 5 is an end of the solar cell panel 10 in the +Y direction and extending along the +X direction, and an end in the -Y direction and extending along the +X direction. There is no substantial location in the area. Therefore, as shown in FIG. 5, by applying the external force F1 to the support member 5, the solar cell panel 10 can be bent in an arc shape when viewed in the direction along the Y direction. For example, the solar cell panel 10 can be bent to a state along an arc with a radius of about several hundred mm (for example, 500 mm). In other words, the solar cell panel 10 can be bent in an arc shape when viewed with the line of sight along the Y direction. According to this, it is easy to attach the solar cell panel 10 to the curved attachment target member.

<1-1-6. Filler thickness>
As shown in FIG. 2, the thickness of the filler 4 may be small in the solar cell part 3, or may be large in the space between the solar cell part 3 and the support member 5. According to this, the strength of the solar cell panel 10 can be improved between the support member 5 and the solar cell section 3. Therefore, the solar cell panel 10 can appropriately cope with stress due to bending. Furthermore, since the filler 4 is thin in the solar cell section 3, the flexibility of the solar cell panel 10 can be improved. In other words, it is possible to achieve both flexibility and strength of the solar cell panel 10.

<1-2. Characteristics of solar cell module>
According to this embodiment, the inner portion 51 of the rigid support member 5 is covered with the filler 4 between the first protective layer 1 and the second protective layer 2. Therefore, the rigidity of the solar cell panel 10 can be improved. In the example of FIG. 1, the support member 5A is located at the edge 1a of the solar cell panel 10 between both ends of the solar cell panel 10 in the Y direction, so that the rigidity in the Y direction is particularly improved. I can do it. The support member 5B can also improve the rigidity of the solar cell panel 10, especially in the Y direction.

Moreover, in this embodiment, the filler 4 is in a state of protruding outward from the edge 1a of the first protective layer 1. Therefore, compared to a structure in which the filler 4 does not protrude, the edge 1a of the first protective layer 1 is more reliably adhered to the filler 4. In the example of FIG. 1, since the filler 4 protrudes outward from the entire area of the edge 1a of the first protective layer 1, the entire area of the edge 1a of the first protective layer 1 is covered with the filler 4 more reliably. Glued. Therefore, the possibility that the edge 1a of the first protective layer 1 will peel off from the filler 4 can be reduced.

The filler 4 covered part or all of the edge 1a of the first protective layer 1 (that is, the side surface on the edge 1a side that connects the first surface 1f and the second surface 1s of the first protective layer 1). May be located in the state. In this case, the filler 4 continuously covers the side surfaces of the first protective layer 1 from the second surface 1s. According to this, the edge 1a of the first protective layer 1 is more firmly adhered to the filler 4, so that the possibility that the edge 1a of the first protective layer 1 peels off from the filler 4 is further reduced. I can do it.

Furthermore, in the specific example described above, the filler 4 is in a state of protruding outward from the edge 1b of the first protective layer 1 and the

edges

2a and 2b of the second protective layer 2, respectively. Therefore, the possibility that the edge 1b of the first protective layer 1 will peel off from the filler 4 can be reduced, and each of the

edges

2a and 2b of the second protective layer 2 will peel off from the filler 4. The possibility can be reduced.

The filler 4 covers part or all of the edge 1b of the first protective layer 1 (that is, the side surface on the edge 1b side that connects the first surface 1f and the second surface 1s of the first protective layer 1). The edge 2b of the second protective layer 2 may cover part or all of the edge 2a of the second protective layer 2 (that is, the side surface on the edge 1b side of the second protective layer 2). (that is, the side surface of the second protective layer 2 on the edge 2b side) may be partially or completely covered. According to this, the possibility that the first protective layer 1 or the second protective layer 2 will peel off can be further reduced.

Note that if the filler 4 protrudes outward from the entire area of the edge 1a of the first protective layer 1, the possibility that the edge 1a of the first protective layer 1 will peel off from the filler 4 is effectively reduced. be able to. However, the filler 4 does not necessarily need to protrude outward from the entire area of the edge 1a. For example, the filler 4 may protrude outward from 80% or more of the area of the edge 1a in the Y direction, or may protrude outward from 90% or more of the area. Even in this case, it is possible to reduce the possibility that the first protective layer 1 will peel off. The filler 4 may protrude outward from 80% or more of the area in the Y direction of each of the edge 1b, the edge 2a, and the edge 2b, or may protrude outward from 90% or more of the area.

<1-3. Manufacturing method of solar cell module according to first embodiment>
Next, an example of a method for manufacturing the solar cell module 100 will be described based on FIGS. 4(a) to 4(c).

First, the first protective layer 1 is prepared. Here, for example, as the first protective layer 1, a resin film having rectangular front and back surfaces and weather resistance is prepared. For example, a fluorine-based resin is used as the weather-resistant resin. As the fluorine-based resin, for example, FEP, ETFE, or ECTFE is used. Here, for example, the second surface 1s, which is one surface of the first protective layer 1, is subjected to a treatment for activating the surface, such as corona treatment or plasma treatment. Thereby, the adhesion between the first protective layer 1 and the filler 4 can be improved in the lamination process described below.

Next, as shown in FIGS. 4(b) and 4(c), for example, the first protective layer 1, the sheet 41s, the sheet 41t, the solar cell part 3, the support member 5, the sheet 42s, the sheet 42t, and the By laminating the two protective layers 2, a laminate 10s is formed.

In the stacked body 10s, the solar cell section 3 is located between two support members 5, and these are arranged in a spaced-apart manner in the X direction. Further, at this time, wiring is appropriately positioned to be drawn out from the solar cell section 3 to the outside of the solar cell panel 10 and connected to a terminal box or the like. For example, the plurality of solar cell elements 31 of the solar cell section 3 are connected to each other by a first wiring material 32 and a second wiring material 33. Further, the third wiring member 34 is connected to the solar cell section 3 .

The sheet 41s and the sheet 41t are sheets made of resin (such as EVA) that is the base material of the first filler 41. The sheet 41s is located between the first protective layer 1 and the solar cell section 3 and between the first protective layer 1 and the support member 5. That is, the sheet 41s is located on the first protective layer 1, and the solar cell section 3 and the support member 5 are located on the sheet 41s. The sheet 41s has a rectangular shape as an example of a rectangular shape in plan view.

The width of the sheet 41s in the X direction may be larger than the width of the first protective layer 1 in the X direction. In the examples shown in FIGS. 4(b) and 4(c), the edge of the sheet 41s in the -X direction protrudes outward from the edge 1a of the first protective layer 1, and the edge of the sheet 41s in the +X direction The end portion is in a state of protruding outward from the edge 1b of the first protective layer 1. In other words, the end portion of the sheet 41s in the −X direction faces the supporting member 5A in the −X direction in the Z direction, but does not face the first protective layer 1 in the Z direction. The +X-direction end of the sheet 41s also faces the +X-direction support member 5B in the Z direction, but does not face the first protective layer 1 in the Z direction.

In plan view, the sheet 41t is located between the support member 5 and the solar cell section 3 and above the sheet 41s. In the example of FIG. 4(b) and FIG. 4(c), two support members 5 are located, so two sheets 41t are located. In plan view, each sheet 41t has, for example, an elongated shape that is long in the Y direction. In the examples of FIGS. 4(b) and 4(c), the width of each sheet 41t is narrower than the distance between the support member 5 and the solar cell section 3. That is, in the examples of FIGS. 4(b) and 4(c), the sheet 41t is located in a state where it does not face both the support member 5 and the solar cell section 3 in the Z direction.

The sheet 42s and the sheet 42t are sheets made of resin (such as EVA) that is the base material of the second filler 42. The sheet 42s and the sheet 42t may contain pigment. The sheet 42s is located between the second protective layer 2 and the solar cell section 3 and between the second protective layer 2 and the support member 5. In other words, the sheet 42s is positioned with both ends facing the support member 5, respectively. The sheet 42s has a rectangular shape as an example of a rectangular shape in plan view.

In plan view, the sheet 42t is located between the support member 5 and the solar cell section 3 and above the sheet 42s. In the example of FIG. 4(b) and FIG. 4(c), two support members 5 are located, so two sheets 42t are located. In plan view, each sheet 42t has, for example, an elongated shape that is long in the Y direction. In the examples of FIGS. 4(b) and 4(c), the width of each sheet 42t is narrower than the distance between the support member 5 and the solar cell section 3. That is, in the examples shown in FIGS. 4(b) and 4(c), the sheet 42t is positioned so as not to face both the support member 5 and the solar cell section 3 in the Z direction.

The second protective layer 2 is located on the sheet 42s and the sheet 42t. The width of the sheet 42s in the X direction may be larger than the width of the second protective layer 2 in the X direction. In the examples shown in FIGS. 4(b) and 4(c), the edge of the sheet 42s in the -X direction protrudes outward from the edge 2a of the second protective layer 2, and the edge of the sheet 42s in the +X direction The end portion protrudes outward from the edge 2b of the second protective layer 2. That is, in the examples of FIGS. 4(b) and 4(c), although the end of the sheet 42s in the -X direction faces the supporting member 5A in the -X direction in the Z direction, the second protective layer 2 They are not facing each other in direction. The +X-direction end of the sheet 42s also faces the +X-direction support member 5B in the Z direction, but does not face the second protective layer 2 in the Z direction.

In the example of FIG. 4(c), although the sheet 42s and the second protective layer 2 are shown as having a flat plate shape, if they have flexibility or softness, the central part of the sheet 42s and the second protective layer 2 may be It can bend toward the protective layer 1 side.

Next, for example, a lamination process is performed on the laminate 10s. Here, for example, a laminate device (laminator) is used to integrate the laminate 10s. For example, in a laminator, the laminate 10s is placed on a heater board in a chamber, and while the pressure inside the chamber is reduced from 50 Pascals (Pa) to about 150 Pa, the laminate 10s is heated from 100 degrees Celsius (100 degrees Celsius) to 200 degrees Celsius. Heat to about 200°C. At this time, the

sheets

41s, 41t, 42s, and 42t become fluidized to some extent by heating. In this state, in the chamber, the laminate 10s is pressed in the Z direction with a pressing member such as a diaphragm sheet, thereby integrating the laminate 10s.

In this lamination process, as described above, the sheet 41s protrudes outward from each of the edge 1a and edge 1b of the first protective layer 1 in the X direction. Therefore, it is easy to form the filler 4 in a state in which it protrudes outward from the first protective layer 1. In the lamination process, the sheet 42s protrudes outward from each of the edge 2a and edge 2b of the second protective layer 2 in the X direction. Therefore, it is easy to form the filler 4 in a state in which it protrudes outward from the second protective layer 2.

Note that, as described above, since the sheet melted during the lamination process is fluid, it can flow outward by being pressed by the pressing body. Therefore, the width of the sheet 41s in the X direction does not necessarily have to be greater than the width of the first protective layer 1 in the X direction. In short, in the lamination process, the width of the sheet 41s in the X direction is preferably set to such an extent that the molten sheet can protrude beyond the

edges

1a and 1b of the first protective layer 1. The width of the sheet 42s in the X direction may also be set to a value that allows the melted sheet to protrude beyond the

edges

2a and 2b of the second protective layer 2.

Furthermore, in the above example, the sheet 41t and the sheet 42t are located in the stacked body 10s. In other words, the total thickness of the sheet increases between the support member 5 and the solar cell section 3. Therefore, the thickness of the filler 4 between the support member 5 and the solar cell section 3 can be increased more easily.

After the lamination process, a terminal box or the like may be attached to the solar cell panel 10 as appropriate. At this time, for example, wiring drawn out from the solar cell section 3 to the outside of the solar cell panel 10 is appropriately connected to a terminal in the terminal box. Thereby, the solar cell module 100 is assembled.

In the above example, the solar cell panel 10 including the support member 5 is integrated by lamination processing. Therefore, the solar cell panel 10 is easier to assemble than a structure in which an external frame (not shown) is attached to the solar cell panel 10 with screws or the like instead of the support member 5.

<1-4. Number of arrays of solar cell elements>
In the example of FIG. 1, the number of solar cell elements 31 arranged in the X direction is 2, which is an even number. In other words, the number of solar cell elements 31 arranged in the direction orthogonal to the longitudinal direction of the support member 5 is an even number. Furthermore, the widths of each solar cell element 31 in the X direction are substantially equal to each other. Therefore, the solar cell element 31 does not exist at the center of the solar cell panel 10 in the X direction. That is, the center of the solar cell panel 10 corresponds to the portion between the solar cell elements 31.

By the way, when the solar cell panel 10 is bent by the external force F1 (see also FIG. 5), a relatively large stress is also applied to the center of the solar cell panel 10 in the X direction. Further, even when a load such as snow is applied to the solar cell panel 10 while the support member 5 is attached to the attachment target member, the solar cell panel 10 can bend in an arc shape when viewed in the Y direction. Even in such a case, a relatively large stress is applied to the center of the solar cell panel 10 in the X direction.

In the example of FIG. 1, no solar cell element 31 is present at the center of the solar cell panel 10. Therefore, even when the solar cell panel 10 is bent due to the external force F1 or a load such as snow accumulation being applied to the solar cell panel 10, the stress applied to each solar cell element 31 is relatively small. Therefore, it is possible to reduce the possibility that problems such as performance deterioration of the solar cell element 31 due to stress will occur.

<2. Other embodiments>
The present disclosure is not limited to the first embodiment described above, and various changes and improvements can be made without departing from the gist of the present disclosure.

<2-1. Second embodiment>
<2-1-1. Solar cell module＞
In the first embodiment, as shown in FIG. 6, the edge 2a of the second protective layer 2 may be located on the solar cell part 3 side with respect to the edge 1a of the first protective layer 1. . Further, the edge 2b of the second protective layer 2 may be located on the solar cell section 3 side with respect to the edge 1b of the first protective layer 1. In other words, the width of the second protective layer 2 in the X direction may be smaller than the width of the first protective layer 1 in the X direction. Moreover, the edge 42a of the filler 4 may be located on the solar cell part 3 side with respect to the edge 41a, and the edge 42b of the filler 4 may be located on the solar cell part 3 side with respect to the edge 41b. You may do so.

As a more specific example, as shown in FIG. 6, the second protective layer 2 may be located avoiding the area facing each support member 5 in the Z direction, and the filler 4 may be located on each support member 5. 5 in the −Z direction (that is, on the opposite side to the first protective layer 1), and may be located away from a region facing each support member 5 in the Z direction. In other words, the filler 4 and the second protective layer 2 do not need to be located in a region that is in the −Z direction with respect to the support member 5 and that faces the support member 5 in the Z direction.

In such a structure, the entire surface of the support member 5 in the -Z direction is exposed to the outside of the solar cell module 100. In the example of FIG. 6, the attachment target member 300 to which the support member 5B in the +X direction is fixed and the fastening member 301 that fixes them are shown by imaginary lines. In the example of FIG. 6, the attachment target member 300 faces the support member 5 in the Z direction and is in contact with the support member 5. The fastening member 301 is, for example, a bolt that penetrates the support member 5 in the Z direction. The support member 5 can be pressed and fixed to the attachment target member 300 by the fastening member 301 . Although not shown in FIG. 6, the support member 5A can also be attached to the attachment target member, for example, like the support member 5B.

In the example of FIG. 6, the filler 4 and the second protective layer 2 are not interposed between the attachment target member 300 and the support member 5B. Therefore, even if the thickness of the filler 4 and the second protective layer 2 changes due to various factors such as thermal expansion, thermal contraction, and aging deterioration of the filler 4 and the second protective layer 2, the support member 5B and the attachment The distance from the target member 300 does not change. Therefore, loosening of the fastening member 301 due to variations in the thickness of the filler 4 and the second protective layer 2 can be suppressed, and the solar cell module 100 can be more firmly attached to the mounting target member 300 with higher reliability. Can be fixed.

Furthermore, since the opposing area between the support member 5B and the attachment target member 300 can be improved, the support member 5B can be more firmly fixed to the attachment target member 300. Conversely, even if the width of the support member 5B in the X direction is narrowed, the opposing area between the support member 5B and the attachment target member 300 can be secured, so the solar cell module 100 can be downsized.

Further, in the example of FIG. 6, a part of the filler 4 is located between the first protective layer 1 and each support member 5. Therefore, even if water such as rainwater adheres to the front surface 10f of the solar cell panel 10 from the external space 200, it is difficult for the water to enter between the first protective layer 1 and each support member 5. On the other hand, since rainwater does not easily reach the back surface 10b of the solar cell panel 10, the amount of water that enters between the second protective layer 2 and each support member 5 is small in the first place. Therefore, the solar cell section 3 can also be appropriately protected from water.

<2-1-2. Manufacturing method of solar cell module according to second embodiment>
Next, an example of the lamination process in the method for manufacturing the solar cell module 100 according to the second embodiment will be described based on FIGS. 7(a) and 7(b).

For example, as shown in FIGS. 7(a) and 7(b), the first protective layer 1, the sheet 41s, the sheet 41t, the solar cell part 3, the support member 5, the sheet 42s, the sheet 42t, and the second protective layer 2 is stacked to form a stacked body 10s. As shown in FIGS. 7(a) and 7(b), in the laminate 10s according to the second embodiment, between the support member 5 and the second protective layer 2, The seat 42s is not located. That is, the width of the sheet 42s in the X direction is smaller than the width of the sheet 41s in the X direction, and more specifically, smaller than the interval between the two support members 5. Further, the width of the sheet 42s is wider than the width of the solar cell section 3 in the X direction. This sheet 42s is positioned so as to face the solar cell section 3 in the Z direction, but not to face the support member 5 in the Z direction.

Furthermore, as shown in FIGS. 7(a) and 7(b), the width of the second protective layer 2 in the X direction is narrower than the width of the first protective layer 1 in the X direction. The width of the second protective layer 2 in the X direction may be, for example, the same as the interval between the two supporting members 5, or may be narrower than the interval. In another example described later, the width of the second protective layer 2 in the X direction may be wider than the interval between the supporting members 5 and narrower than the width of the first protective layer 1 in the X direction.

Next, for example, a lamination process is performed on the laminate 10s. Here, for example, a laminate device (laminator) is used to integrate the laminate 10s. Thereby, the solar cell panel 10 shown in FIG. 6 can be manufactured.

<2-1-3. Another example of the second embodiment>
In the example of FIG. 6, the filler 4 and the second protective layer 2 are not located in the entire region facing each support member 5 in the −Z direction with respect to each support member 5. However, this is not necessarily the case. A portion of the second protective layer 2 and the filler 4 may be located in this area. In the example of FIG. 6, a state in which a part of the filler 4 and a part of the second protective layer 2 are located in the region on the support member 5A side in the -X direction is shown by a two-dot chain line. Even in this case, in plan view, the edge 2a of the second protective layer 2 in the -X direction is located on the solar cell part 3 side with respect to the edge 1a of the first protective layer 1 in the -X direction. The edge 42a of the material 4 on the second protective layer 2 side and the outer portion 52 side is on the solar cell part 3 side with respect to the edge 41a of the filler 4 on the first protective layer 1 side and the outer portion 52 side. Located in The edge 42a of the filler 4 may be located outside the edge 2a of the second protective layer 2. Although not shown in FIG. 6, on the support member 5B side in the +X direction, a part of the filler 4 and a part of the second protective layer 2 are located in this area, as on the support member 5A side. You may do so. Further, part of the filler 4 may be located in this area, and part of the second protective layer 2 may not be located in this area.

Even with such a structure, the area of the portion of each support member 5 exposed on the second protective layer 2 side can be increased. Therefore, the opposing area between the support member 5 and the attachment target member can be improved, and the solar cell module 100 can be more firmly fixed to the attachment target member. Alternatively, even if the width of the support member 5 in the X direction is narrowed in the solar cell module 100, the opposing area between the support member 5 and the attachment target member can be secured, so the solar cell module 100 can be made smaller. can.

<2-2. Third embodiment>
In the first embodiment and the second embodiment, as shown in FIG. 8, a plurality of support members 5 may be arranged in a line at intervals in the Y direction. In the example of FIG. 8, four support members 5 are arranged in the Y direction on each of both sides of the solar cell panel 10 in the X direction. That is, the four supporting members 5A are arranged at intervals in the Y direction at the ends of the solar cell panel 10 in the −X direction and extending along the Y direction, and the four supporting members 5A are arranged at intervals in the Y direction. The two support members 5B are arranged at intervals in the Y direction at an end of the solar cell panel 10 in the +X direction and extending along the Y direction. In the example of FIG. 8, the four support members 5A are located facing the four support members 5B in the X direction. That is, the eight support members 5 are arranged in a matrix with four rows and two columns.

The filler 4 protrudes from between the first protective layer 1 and each of the support members 5A to the outside of the edge 1a of the first protective layer 1 in plan view. A portion of the filler 4 located outside the edge 1a of the first protective layer 1 is in a state of being adhered to the outside portion 52 of the support member 5. Further, the filler 4 protrudes from between the first protective layer 1 and each of the supporting members 5B to the outside of the edge 1b of the first protective layer 1 in plan view. A portion of the filler 4 located outside the edge 1b of the first protective layer 1 is in a state of being adhered to the outside portion 52 of the support member 5.

The filler 4 may protrude from between the second protective layer 2 and each of the support members 5A to the outside of the edge 2a of the second protective layer 2 in plan view. A portion of the filler 4 located outside the edge 2 a of the second protective layer 2 can be bonded to the outside portion 52 of the support member 5 . Further, the filler 4 may protrude outward from the edge 2b of the second protective layer 2 from between the second protective layer 2 and each of the supporting members 5B. A portion of the filler 4 located outside the edge 2b of the second protective layer 2 can be bonded to the outer portion 52 of the support member 5.

As described above, also in the third embodiment, the filler 4 is in a state of protruding outward from each of the edge 1a and the edge 1b of the first protective layer 1. Therefore, the possibility that the first protective layer 1 will peel off from each of the edge 1a and the edge 1b can be reduced. In addition, when the filler 4 is in a state where it protrudes outward from each of the edge 2a and the edge 2b of the second protective layer 2, the second protective layer 2 extends beyond the edge 2a and the edge 2b, respectively. The possibility of peeling can also be reduced.

Further, according to the third embodiment, since the plurality of support members 5 are arranged at intervals in the Y direction, the solar cell panel 10 has an arc shape when viewed with the line of sight along the X direction. It can also bend. In addition, in the example of FIG. 8, the filler 4 is applied from each of the edge 1a and the edge 1b of the first protective layer 1 at a position where the support members 5 on both sides of the solar cell panel 10 in the X direction are not present. Although it does not protrude outward, it may also protrude.

<2-3. Fourth embodiment>
In the first to third embodiments, as shown in FIG. 9, the support member 5 may be located on only one side of the solar cell panel 10 having a rectangular shape. In other words, the support member 5 may be located only on one side of the first protective layer 1 and the second protective layer 2 having a rectangular shape. In the example of FIG. 9, the support member 5 is located only on one side of the solar cell panel 10 in the −X direction. That is, the support member 5 is located between the edge 1a of the first protective layer 1 and the edge 2a of the second protective layer 2. Even with this structure, the rigidity of the solar cell panel 10 can be improved compared to a structure without the support member 5. Moreover, this solar cell panel 10 is integrated by lamination processing. Therefore, assembly of the solar cell panel 10 is easy.

Furthermore, since the support members 5 are not located on the three sides of the solar cell panel 10, the solar cell panel 10 can easily bend in more directions. In other words, the flexibility of the solar cell panel 10 can be improved.

<2-4. Fifth embodiment>
In the first embodiment to the fourth embodiment, the solar cell module 100 may further include a reinforcing fiber member 60, for example, as shown in FIGS. 10(a) and 10(b). The reinforcing fiber member 60 includes, for example, aramid fibers such as Kevlar (registered trademark) fibers and fiber members such as carbon fibers, and is covered with a filler 4 between the first protective layer 1 and the second protective layer 2. Located in the state. For example, the entire reinforcing fiber member 60 is covered with the filler 4. In the example of FIG. 10(a), the reinforcing fiber member 60 is located along the side of the solar cell panel 10 where the support member 5 is not located. In the example of FIG. 10(a), since the two support members 5 are located on both sides (corresponding to the first side) of the solar cell panel 10 in the X direction, the two reinforcing fiber members 60 They are located on both sides (corresponding to the second side) of the panel 10 in the Y direction. The sides on both sides in the X direction herein refer to one side located at the end of the solar panel 10 in the -X direction and extending along the Y direction, and the end of the solar panel 10 in the +X direction. and one side extending along the Y direction. In addition, the sides on both sides in the Y direction refer to one side located at the end of the solar cell panel 10 in the -Y direction and extending along the X direction, and one side located at the end of the solar cell panel 10 in the +Y direction. and one side extending along the X direction. The reinforcing fiber member 60 has an elongated shape that is long in the X direction, and is positioned so as not to overlap the solar cell section 3 in plan view. In other words, the reinforcing fiber member 60 is located so as not to face the solar cell section 3 in the Z direction.

The length of the reinforcing fiber member 60 in the longitudinal direction (that is, the length in the X direction) may be, for example, one-half or more, or two-thirds or more of the width of the solar cell panel 10 in the X direction. It may be three quarters or more. Both ends of the reinforcing fiber member 60 in the X direction may be in contact with the support member 5, respectively.

The reinforcing fiber member 60 is easily deformable and has high strength. Therefore, the reinforcing fiber member 60 can improve the strength of the solar cell panel 10 without reducing its flexibility. In the example of FIG. 10A, the reinforcing fiber member 60 is located on the side of the solar cell panel 10 where the support member 5 is not located, so the reinforcing fiber member 60 can improve the portion with low strength. Therefore, the support member 5 and the reinforcing fiber member 60 can increase the overall strength in the peripheral area of the solar cell panel 10.

<2-5. Sixth embodiment>
In the first to fifth embodiments, for example, as shown in FIGS. 11(a) to 12(b), the solar cell section 3 includes a plurality of cells each including a thin film semiconductor and a transparent electrode. The solar cell section 3B may be changed to include a thin film solar cell element 31B. Thin film based semiconductors include, for example, silicon based, compound based or other types of semiconductors. As the silicon-based thin film semiconductor, for example, a semiconductor using amorphous silicon or thin film polycrystalline silicon is applied. Compound thin film semiconductors include, for example, compound semiconductors having a chalcopyrite structure such as CIS semiconductors or CIGS semiconductors, compound semiconductors such as compounds having a perovskite structure, compound semiconductors having a kesterite structure, or cadmium telluride (CdTe) semiconductors. applies. A CIS semiconductor is a compound semiconductor containing copper (Cu), indium (In), and selenium (Se). A CIGS semiconductor is a compound semiconductor containing Cu, In, gallium (Ga), and Se. Here, an example will be described in which a plurality of thin film solar cell elements 31B are located on the substrate 6.

As shown in FIGS. 11(a) to 12(b), the solar cell section 3B includes a substrate 6 and a plurality of solar cell elements 31B arranged in a plane on the substrate 6. have Here, being lined up in a plane means that each of the plurality of solar cell elements 31B is located along a virtual or actual plane, and that the plurality of solar cell elements 31B are lined up. In the examples shown in FIGS. 12(a) and 12(b), the plurality of solar cell elements 31B are arranged on the substrate 6 along the surface of the substrate 6. As the substrate 6, for example, a transparent glass substrate having a thickness of about 0.5 mm to 2 mm is applied. Here, for example, it is assumed that the solar cell section 3B includes N solar cell elements 31B (N is a natural number of 2 or more). In this case, for example, if N solar cell elements 31B are electrically connected in series, the larger the numerical value N, the larger the output voltage of the solar cell section 3B can be. FIGS. 12(a) and 12(b) show an example in which a plurality of solar cell elements 31B (seven in this case) are lined up along the +Y direction. Here, for example, each of the solar cell elements 31B has an elongated shape with a longitudinal direction along the +X direction. In this case, for example, if the width of the solar cell element 31B in the +Y direction is approximately several millimeters (mm) to 1 centimeter (cm), the solar cell section 3B may include several tens to hundreds of solar cell elements 31B. can be lined up.

Each of the plurality of solar cell elements 31B includes, for example, a first electrode layer 8a, a semiconductor layer 8b, and a second electrode layer 8c, as shown in FIG. 12(b). Further, in the solar cell section 3B, for example, as shown in FIG. 12(b), a connecting section 9 and a transparent section 7 are present between adjacent solar cell elements 31B. Here, for example, if the second electrode layer 8c is a layer (also referred to as a translucent electrode layer) that has higher transmissivity for light in a specific range of wavelengths than the semiconductor layer 8b, in each solar cell element 31B, Incident light can pass through the second electrode layer 8c. Thereby, for example, incident light that has passed through the first protective layer 1 can pass through the second electrode layer 8c and be irradiated onto the semiconductor layer 8b. At this time, for example, the incident light may be absorbed by the semiconductor layer 8b. Here, for example, if the second protective layer 2 is made of a light-transmitting material like the first protective layer 1, the first electrode layer 8a is more sensitive to wavelengths in a specific range than the semiconductor layer 8b. If the layer is highly transparent to light (transparent electrode layer), the incident light that has passed through the second protective layer 2 can pass through the first electrode layer 8a and be irradiated onto the semiconductor layer 8b.

The first electrode layer 8a is located, for example, on the surface of the substrate 6 facing the +Z direction. The first electrode layer 8a is, for example, an electrode (also referred to as a first electrode) that can collect charges generated by photoelectric conversion in response to light irradiation in the semiconductor layer 8b. If the material of the first electrode layer 8a is, for example, a transparent conductive oxide (TCO) that is transparent to light in a specific range of wavelengths, can be transmitted through the second protective layer 2 and the first electrode layer 8a and incident on the semiconductor layer 8b. Examples of TCO include indium tin oxide (ITO), fluorine-doped tin oxide (FTO), and zinc oxide (ZnO). When using zinc oxide as the TCO, the TCO may contain aluminum (Al), boron (B), or gallium (Ga) as necessary. In the example of FIG. 12(b), seven first electrode layers 8a are arranged on the substrate 6 in a plane along the +Y direction. Here, the first electrode layer 8a of the m-th solar cell element 31Bm (m is a natural number from 1 to 6) and the first electrode layer 8a of the (m+1)-th solar cell element 31B (m+1) The portions extending toward the battery element 31Bm are lined up with a gap (also referred to as a first gap) G1 in between. For example, the first electrode layer 8a of the first solar cell element 31B1 and the portion of the second solar cell element 31B2 where the first electrode layer 8a extends toward the first solar cell element 31B1 are connected to the first electrode layer 8a of the first solar cell element 31B1. They are lined up with a gap G1 in between. Each first gap G1 has a longitudinal direction along the +X direction. Here, in each first gap G1, there is a first groove portion P1 whose bottom surface is the surface of the substrate 6.

The semiconductor layer 8b is located between the first electrode layer 8a and the second electrode layer 8c. Here, in the semiconductor layer 8b of the m-th solar cell element 31Bm, the first electrode layer 8a of the adjacent (m+1)-th solar cell element 31B (m+1) in the +Y direction extends in the -Y direction. It extends over the end of the section. For example, the semiconductor layer 8b of the first solar cell element 31B1 extends until it reaches the end of the portion where the first electrode layer 8a of the adjacent second solar cell element 31B2 extends in the -Y direction. It is located in The semiconductor layer 8b is made of, for example, the above-mentioned thin film semiconductor.

The second electrode layer 8c is located on the semiconductor layer 8b. The second electrode layer 8c is an electrode (also referred to as a second electrode) that can collect charges generated by photoelectric conversion in response to light irradiation in the semiconductor layer 8b. As the material of the second electrode layer 8c, for example, like the material of the first electrode layer 8a, a transparent conductive oxide (TCO) that is transparent to light in a specific range of wavelengths may be used. In the example of FIG. 12(b), seven second electrode layers 8c are arranged in a plane along the +Y direction. Here, a portion where the second electrode layer 8c of the m-th solar cell element 31Bm extends toward the (m+1)th solar cell element 31B(m+1) and a portion of the (m+1)-th solar cell element 31B(m+1) are shown. The second electrode layers 8c are lined up with a gap (also referred to as a second gap) G2 in between. For example, the portion where the second electrode layer 8c of the first solar cell element 31B1 extends in the +Y direction and the second electrode layer 8c of the second solar cell element 31B2 are arranged with a gap (second gap) G2 in between. They are in line. Each second gap G2 has a longitudinal direction along the +X direction. Here, in each second gap G2, there is a third groove portion P3 having the first electrode layer 8a as the bottom surface. Further, here, for example, between the m-th solar cell element 31Bm and the (m+1)th solar cell element 31B (m+1) that are adjacent in the +Y direction, the second gap G2 is +Y larger than the first gap G1. It is located at a position shifted in the direction. Therefore, for example, the inter-cell region 31ga between the m-th solar cell element 31Bm and the (m+1)-th solar cell element 31B (m+1) adjacent in the +Y direction is the edge of the first gap G1 in the -Y direction. from the edge of the second gap G2 in the +Y direction.

The connecting portion 9 is in a state where two adjacent solar cell elements 31B among the plurality of solar cell elements 31B are electrically connected in series. In the example of FIG. 12(b), the m-th connection portion 9m is located penetrating between the semiconductor layer 8b and the transparent portion 7. This m-th connection portion 9m is in a state of electrically connecting the m-th solar cell element 31Bm and the (m+1)th solar cell element 31B (m+1). For example, the first connection portion 91 is in a state of electrically connecting the first solar cell element 31B1 and the second solar cell element 31B2. More specifically, the m-th connection portion 9m electrically connects the second electrode layer 8c of the m-th solar cell element 31Bm and the first electrode layer 8a of the (m+1)-th solar cell element 31B (m+1). is connected to. For example, the first connecting portion 91 is in a state of electrically connecting the second electrode layer 8c of the first solar cell element 31B1 and the first electrode layer 8a of the second solar cell element 31B2. Thereby, the plurality of solar cell elements 31B are in a state where they are electrically connected in series. In addition, the connecting portion 9 has the end surface of the semiconductor layer 8b facing the +Y direction and the end surface of the transparent portion 7 facing the −Y direction as both side surfaces, and the surface facing the −Z direction of the first electrode layer 8a as the bottom surface. It exists in a second groove portion (not shown). Each second groove has a longitudinal direction along the +X direction. The second groove is filled with the connecting portion 9.

The transparent portion 7 has higher translucency than the semiconductor layer 8b for light having wavelengths in a specific range. The transparent portion 7 can be formed, for example, by locally heating a part of the semiconductor layer having a perovskite structure. Here, the m-th transparent portion 7m is located between the m-th connection portion 9m of the m-th solar cell element 31Bm and the (m+1)th solar cell element 31B (m+1). For example, the first transparent part 71 is located between the first connection part 91 of the first solar cell element 31B1 and the second solar cell element 31B2. In the example of FIG. 12(b), the m-th transparent portion 7m connects the m-th connecting portion 9m of the m-th solar cell element 31Bm, and the m-th solar cell element 31Bm and the (m+1)th solar cell element 31B. (m+1), and the third groove portion P3 exists between the groove portion P3 and the third groove portion P3. For example, the first transparent part 71 includes a first connection part 91 of the first solar cell element 31B1, a third groove part P3 existing between the first solar cell element 31B1 and the second solar cell element 31B2, It is located between. The transparent portion 7 may be made of a non-transparent semiconductor layer, or may be the same as the semiconductor layer 8b, for example.

In the first solar cell element 31B1, the first electrode layer 8a has a portion (also referred to as a first portion) 8ae that extends in the −Y direction further than the semiconductor layer 8b and the second electrode layer 8c. In the seventh solar cell element 31B7, the semiconductor layer 8b and the second electrode layer 8c extend further in the +Y direction than the first electrode layer 8a, and the second electrode layer 8c extends further in the +Y direction than the semiconductor layer 8b. It has an extended portion (also referred to as a second portion) 8ce. A first wiring material 32a for output of the first polarity is electrically connected to the first portion 8ae. Here, the first wiring material 32a is in a state of being joined to the first portion 8ae, which is a part of the electrode of the first solar cell element 31B1, for example. Specifically, for example, a portion located between the first wiring material 32a and the first portion 8ae and in a state of joining the first wiring material 32a and the first portion 8ae (a third joint (also referred to as part) 321B exists. In the example of FIG. 12(a), the first wiring material 32a is located along the edge of the first solar cell element 31B1 located in the -Y direction. A second wiring material 32b for outputting the second polarity is electrically connected to the second portion 8ce. Here, the second wiring material 32b is in a state of being joined to the second portion 8ce, which is a part of the electrode of the seventh solar cell element 31B7, for example. Specifically, for example, a portion located between the second wiring material 32b and the second portion 8ce and in a state of joining the second wiring material 32b and the second portion 8ce (a fourth joint (also referred to as part) 322B exists. In the example of FIG. 12A, the second wiring material 32b is located along the edge of the seventh solar cell element 31B7 located in the +Y direction.

For example, a linear or strip-shaped conductive metal body is applied to the first wiring material 32a and the second wiring material 32b, respectively. The material for the third joint portion 321B and the fourth joint portion 322B may be, for example, a low melting point alloy such as solder or a low melting point single metal. More specifically, for example, copper foil having a thickness of about 0.1 mm to 0.2 mm and a width of about 1 mm to 2 mm is applied to the first wiring material 32a and the second wiring material 32b, respectively. The entire surfaces of the first wiring material 32a and the second wiring material 32b are coated with solder. The first wiring material 32a is in a state of being electrically connected to the first portion 8ae, for example, by soldering. Further, the second wiring material 32b is in a state of being electrically connected to the second portion 8ce by, for example, soldering. In this case, for example, the solder located between the first wiring material 32a and the first portion 8ae constitutes the third joint portion 321B. Further, for example, the solder located between the second wiring material 32b and the second portion 8ce constitutes the fourth joint portion 322B. Hereinafter, the third joint portion 321B and the fourth joint portion 322B will also be abbreviated as “joint portions” as appropriate. Further, here, for example, if the first polarity is a negative polarity, the second polarity is a positive polarity. For example, if the first polarity is positive, the second polarity is negative. Each of the first wiring material 32a and the second wiring material 32b is in a state of being drawn out to the outside through, for example, a through hole penetrating the second protective layer 2.

Here, for example, the substrate 6 of the solar cell section 3B may be used as the second protective layer 2. Moreover, in the above-mentioned example, although the plurality of solar cell elements 31B are lined up along the Y direction, the arrangement is not necessarily limited to this. The arrangement direction of the plurality of solar cell elements 31B may be the X direction, and can be changed as appropriate.

<3. Others>
In the first to sixth embodiments, for example, the second protective layer 2 may be omitted. In this structure, the free acid (for example, acetic acid) generated in the filler 4 is desorbed from the filler 4 in the -Z direction in a gaseous state, so it is possible to reduce defects in the solar cell section 3 due to the free acid. .

In the first to sixth embodiments, the two support members 5 may be located on both sides of the solar cell panel 10 in the Y direction instead of on both sides in the X direction. The solar cell panel 10 can be bent when viewed with the line of sight along the X direction. In this case, the number of solar cell elements 31 arranged in the Y direction may be an even number. According to this, the central portion of the solar cell panel 10 in the Y direction corresponds to the portion between the solar cell elements 31. Therefore, stress generated in the solar cell elements 31 can be reduced compared to a structure in which the number of arrays is an odd number.

In the first to sixth embodiments described above, a covering member may be located to cover the filler 4 located in a state protruding from the first protective layer 1 and/or the second protective layer 2. The covering member covers at least a portion of the filler 4 that protrudes from the first protective layer 1 and/or the second protective layer 2 (hereinafter referred to as a protruding portion). The covering member may be, for example, an aluminum vapor-deposited adhesive tape. The aluminum vapor-deposited adhesive tape includes, for example, a PET (polyethylene terephthalate) film on which aluminum is vapor-deposited, and an acrylic adhesive located on one side of the film. This aluminum-deposited PET tape can be attached to the protruding portion of the filler 4.

The covering member can protect the protruding portion of the filler 4 from environmental loads such as ultraviolet rays, outside air, and rainwater. If the covering member peels off due to deterioration over time, etc., the protruding portion of the filler 4 may be exposed to ultraviolet rays, outside air, rainwater, etc., but the protruding portion can be protected until the covering member peels off. In other words, the covering member can delay the timing at which the environmental load is applied to the protruding portion of the filler 4. Therefore, the possibility that the first protective layer 1 and/or the second protective layer 2 will peel off from the filler 4 can be further reduced. In other words, the weather resistance of the solar cell module 100 can be improved.

Furthermore, even if the covering member peels off from the filler 4 due to deterioration over time, as long as the filler 4 protrudes from the first protective layer 1, the possibility of peeling of the first protective layer 1 can be reduced. If the filler 4 protrudes from the second protective layer 2, the possibility of peeling of the second protective layer 2 can be reduced.

Note that the covering member is not limited to aluminum-deposited PET tape. The covering member may be, for example, a PET tape without aluminum vapor deposition, or a metal foil tape using at least one of stainless steel and aluminum alloy. In short, the covering member may include a weather-resistant base material and an adhesive located on one side of the base material.

As mentioned above, although the solar cell module has been explained in detail, the above explanation is an example in all aspects, and this disclosure is not limited thereto. Furthermore, the various examples described above can be applied in combination as long as they do not contradict each other. And it is understood that countless examples not illustrated can be envisioned without departing from the scope of this disclosure.

This disclosure includes the following content:

In one embodiment, (1) the solar cell module includes a first protective layer having a first surface and a second surface opposite to the first surface, and a first protective layer facing the second surface of the first protective layer. a solar cell part located in a state where the solar cell part is located in a state where the solar cell part is located in a state where one or more support members including an outer portion extending to the outside of the first protective layer; and one or more supporting members that are in contact with the second surface of the first protective layer, cover the solar cell section, and and a filler located between the second surface of the protective layer and the support member to protrude outside the first protective layer in plan view.

(2) In the solar cell module of (1) above, the second protective layer is located on the side opposite to the first protective layer with respect to the filler, in contact with the filler and facing the solar cell part. A protective layer can further be provided.

(3) In the solar cell module according to (2) above, the second protective layer is located opposite to the inner portion of the support member, and the filler is located between the second protective layer and the support member. The second protective layer can be located in such a way that it protrudes from between the second protective layer and the second protective layer in a plan view.

(4) In the solar cell module according to (2) or (3) above, the edge of the filler on the second protective layer side and the outer portion side is on the first protective layer side and the outer portion side. It can be located on the solar cell part side with respect to the edge.

(5) In the solar cell module according to any one of (2) to (4) above, the edge of the second protective layer on the supporting member side is the same as the edge of the first protective layer on the supporting member side. On the other hand, it can be located on the solar cell section side.

(6) In the solar cell module according to (2) above, the second protective layer may be positioned avoiding a region facing the support member.

(7) In the solar cell module according to any one of (1) to (6) above, the solar cell section includes a plurality of solar cell elements located facing the second surface of the first protective layer. The number of arrays of the plurality of solar cell elements may be an even number.

(8) In the solar cell module according to any one of (1) to (7) above, the support member is a plurality of support members, the first protective layer has a rectangular shape, and the plurality of support members are The first protective layer may be spaced apart along one side of the first protective layer.

(9) In the solar cell module according to any one of (1) to (8) above, the first protective layer has a rectangular shape, and the support member is located on only one side of the first protective layer. be able to.

(10) The solar cell module according to any one of (1) to (9) above further includes a reinforcing fiber member, the first protective layer has a rectangular shape, and the supporting member The reinforcing fiber member may be located on a second side of the first protective layer where the supporting member is not located, covered with the filler.

1 First protective layer 1a Edge of first protective layer 1 on support member 5A side 1b Edge of first protective layer 1 on support member 5B side 1f First surface 1s Second surface 2 Second protective layer 2a Second protection Edge of layer 2 on support member 5A side 2b Edge of second protective layer 2 on support member 5B side 3, 3B

Solar cell section

31, 31B Solar cell element 4 Filler 41a First protective layer 1 of filler 4 side and an edge on the outer portion 52 side of the support member 5A 41b An edge of the filler 4 on the first protective layer 1 side and on the outer portion 52 side of the support member 5B 42a An edge of the filler 4 on the second protective layer 2 side and Edge of the support member 5A on the outer portion 52 side 42b Edge of the filler 4 on the second protective layer 2 side and the outer portion 52 side of the

support member 5B

5, 5A, 5B Support member 60 Reinforced fiber member 100 Solar cell module

Claims

A solar cell module,
a first protective layer having a first surface and a second surface opposite to the first surface;
a solar cell section located opposite the second surface of the first protective layer;
one or more support members located adjacent to the solar cell section;
a filler located in contact with the second surface of the first protective layer and covering the solar cell part,
The support member includes an inner portion facing the second surface of the first protective layer, and an outer portion extending from the inner portion to the outside of the first protective layer,
In the solar cell module, the filler is located between the second surface of the first protective layer and the support member so as to protrude to the outside of the first protective layer in plan view.
The solar cell module according to claim 1,
The solar cell module further includes a second protective layer located on a side opposite to the first protective layer with respect to the filler, in contact with the filler, and facing the solar cell section.
The solar cell module according to claim 2,
The second protective layer is located opposite to the inner portion of the support member,
In the solar cell module, the filler is located between the second protective layer and the support member and protrudes to the outside of the second protective layer in a plan view.
The solar cell module according to claim 2 or 3,
An edge of the filler on the second protective layer side and the outer part side is located on the solar cell part side with respect to an edge on the first protective layer side and the outer part side. solar cell module.
The solar cell module according to any one of claims 2 to 4,
In the solar cell module, an edge of the second protective layer on the support member side is located on the solar cell unit side with respect to an edge of the first protective layer on the support member side.
The solar cell module according to claim 2,
In the solar cell module, the second protective layer is located so as to avoid a region facing the support member.
The solar cell module according to any one of claims 1 to 6,
The solar cell section includes a plurality of solar cell elements located opposite the second surface of the first protective layer,
The solar cell module, wherein the number of the plurality of solar cell elements arranged is an even number.
The solar cell module according to any one of claims 1 to 7,
The support member is a plurality of support members,
The first protective layer has a rectangular shape,
In the solar cell module, the plurality of support members are arranged at intervals along one side of the first protective layer.
The solar cell module according to any one of claims 1 to 8,
The first protective layer has a rectangular shape,
In the solar cell module, the support member is located on only one side of the first protective layer.
The solar cell module according to any one of claims 1 to 9,
Further comprising a reinforcing fiber member,
The first protective layer has a rectangular shape,
The support member is located on a first side of the first protective layer,
In the solar cell module, the reinforcing fiber member is located on a second side of the first protective layer where the supporting member is not located, covered with the filler.