Circuit Configuration for Power Generation Comprising Series-Connected Solar Cells Having Bypass Diodes

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This patent describes a solar panel design in which each series-connected solar cell is provided with a parallel bypass diode, each physically and electrically integrated into the module structure. The bypass diodes are arranged linearly between the solar cells, enabling current to flow around any shaded or malfunctioning cell. The invention uses a simplified method for integrating both solar cells and bypass diodes with straightforward linear structuring, making the panel easier and more cost-effective to manufacture while offering improved safety and module performance under partial shading conditions.

Use CasesContent extracted from patent full text and abstract with AI.

• Rooftop solar installations for residential, commercial, or industrial buildings, where partial shading from trees, chimneys, or nearby objects is common.
• Solar farms or utility-scale photovoltaic arrays that require robust and reliable operation to maximize energy yield in varying environmental conditions.
• Solar-powered consumer electronic devices or off-grid solutions where efficiency and reliability are important, even in non-ideal lighting situations.
• Building-integrated photovoltaics (BIPV), where architectural features may cause variable shading across the solar panel modules.
• Portable and flexible solar panels designed for use in temporary installations or harsh environments.

BenefitsContent extracted from patent full text and abstract with AI.

• Enhanced reliability and safety by preventing overheating and damage (hot spots) in solar cells subjected to shading or defects.
• Continued power generation when some cells are shaded or non-functional, thanks to integrated bypass diodes allowing current to be rerouted.
• Simplified module design and manufacturing process due to linear, straightforward structuring, reducing cost and production complexity.
• Reduces losses in power output under non-uniform illumination, improving overall efficiency in real-world conditions compared to standard panels without integrated bypass diodes.
• Adaptability to a range of thin-film solar cell technologies and substrate types, including flexible or rigid modules.

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Patent Abstract

The invention relates to a solar panel that is technically simple to produce, comprising a plurality of solar cells (10, 11, 12, 13) that are disposed one behind another and are electrically connected in series, wherein: a bypass diode (20, 21, 22, 23) for electrical bridging is electrically connected to each solar cell (10, 11, 12, 13) in parallel, said bypass diodes (20, 21, 22, 23) being disposed one behind the other; and each solar cell (10, 11, 12, 13) and each bypass diode (20, 21, 22, 23) comprises a photovoltaically active layer (32), as well as a lower electrically conductive layer (31) and an upper electrically conductive layer (33) which border the photovoltaically active layer (32); the solar panel is characterised in that each bypass diode (20, 21, 22, 23) is disposed between solar cells (10, 11, 12, 13).