U.S. patent application number 15/362950 was filed with the patent office on 2017-04-06 for photovoltaic device.
The applicant listed for this patent is Dow Global Technologies LLC. Invention is credited to Ryan S. Gaston, Keith L. Kauffmann, James R. Keenihan, Joseph A. Langmaid, Leonardo C. Lopez, Kevin D. Maak, Michael E. Mills, Narayan Ramesh, Jason A. Reese, Samar R. Teli.
Application Number | 20170099029 15/362950 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 45444726 |
Filed Date | 2017-04-06 |
United States Patent
Application |
20170099029 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
Reese; Jason A. ; et
al. |
April 6, 2017 |
PHOTOVOLTAIC DEVICE
Abstract
The present invention is premised upon an improved photovoltaic
device ("PV device") more particularly to an improved photovoltaic
device with a multilayered photovoltaic cell assembly and a body
portion joined at an interface region and including an intermediate
layer, at least one interconnecting structural member, relieving
feature, unique component geometry or any combination thereof.
Inventors: |
Reese; Jason A.; (Auburn,
MI) ; Keenihan; James R.; (Midland, MI) ;
Gaston; Ryan S.; (Midland, MI) ; Kauffmann; Keith
L.; (Ypsilanti, MI) ; Langmaid; Joseph A.;
(Caro, MI) ; Lopez; Leonardo C.; (Midland, MI)
; Maak; Kevin D.; (Midland, MI) ; Mills; Michael
E.; (Midland, MI) ; Ramesh; Narayan; (Midland,
MI) ; Teli; Samar R.; (Midland, MI) |
|
Applicant: |
Name |
City |
State |
Country |
Type |
Dow Global Technologies LLC |
Midland |
MI |
US |
|
|
Family ID: |
45444726 |
Appl. No.: |
15/362950 |
Filed: |
November 29, 2016 |
Related U.S. Patent Documents
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Application
Number |
Filing Date |
Patent Number |
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13989172 |
May 23, 2013 |
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PCT/US2011/064393 |
Dec 12, 2011 |
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15362950 |
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61424325 |
Dec 17, 2010 |
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Current U.S.
Class: |
1/1 |
Current CPC
Class: |
Y02B 10/12 20130101;
Y02B 10/10 20130101; Y02E 10/50 20130101; H01L 31/048 20130101;
H02S 40/34 20141201; H02S 20/25 20141201 |
International
Class: |
H02S 20/25 20060101
H02S020/25; H02S 40/34 20060101 H02S040/34; H01L 31/048 20060101
H01L031/048 |
Goverment Interests
[0002] This invention was made with U.S. Government support under
contract DE-FC36-07G017054 awarded by the Department of Energy. The
U.S. Government has certain rights in this invention.
Claims
1-22. (canceled)
23. A photovoltaic device comprising: a three-dimensional
multi-layered photovoltaic cell assembly in the form of a panel
including at least: a top surface, a bottom surface, and a
peripheral edge extending between and connecting the top surface to
the bottom surface, the peripheral edge including a length and a
width; further including a barrier layer comprising a rigid
material that is transparent or translucent; a body portion
comprising: filled or unfilled moldable plastic material, a main
body portion, a first frame portion, and a second frame portion
extending from an opposite side of the main body portion as the
first frame portion and an empty region located between the first
frame portion and the second from portion; and wherein the body
portion is at least partially surrounding a portion of the top
surface and the peripheral edge of the three-dimensional
multi-layered photovoltaic cell assembly, and the main body portion
has a bottom peripheral edge extending between and connecting the
first frame portion and the second frame portion; a relieving
feature comprised at least partially of an elastomeric material
disposed in a localized thinning of the main body portion, the
localized thinning of the main body portion extending along the
bottom peripheral edge of the main body portion and being located
outside of the peripheral edge of the three-dimensional
multi-layered photovoltaic cell assembly so that the relieving
feature allows elastic deformation of the photovoltaic device over
a temperature range; and at least one electrical connector assembly
with a connector housing, the connector housing having an outer
surface having a housing top surface, a housing bottom surface, and
a housing peripheral edge connecting the housing top surface and
the housing bottom surface, and the at least one connector housing
is located between a portion of the relieving feature and the
bottom peripheral edge of the main body portion.
24. The photovoltaic device according to claim 23, wherein the at
least one electrical connector assembly is two electrical connector
assemblies disposed on opposite sides of the three dimensional
multi-layered photovoltaic cell assembly.
25. The photovoltaic device according to claim 23, wherein the
relieving feature is disposed in the main body portion within 15.0
mm of the barrier layer of the three-dimensional multi-layered
photovoltaic cell assembly along at least 50 percent of a top
peripheral edge of the multi-layered photovoltaic cell assembly,
and wherein the top peripheral edge of the three-dimensional
multi-layered photovoltaic cell assembly is located proximate to
the bottom peripheral edge of the main body portion.
26. The photovoltaic device according to claim 23, wherein the
housing peripheral edge of the connector housing includes a top
peripheral edge and a bottom peripheral edge and the bottom
peripheral edge is located proximate to the three-dimensional
multi-layered photovoltaic cell assembly and the top peripheral
edge is located opposite the bottom peripheral edge, and the
relieving feature is disposed in the main body portion within 5.0
mm of the top peripheral edge of the connector housing.
27. The photovoltaic device according to claim 23, wherein the
barrier layer is comprised of a glass with a thickness of 1.0 to
5.0 mm.
28. The photovoltaic device according to claim 23, wherein at least
the body portion is comprised of: a body material with a body
coefficient of linear thermal expansion, the body portion with a
body lower surface portion, body upper surface portion and a body
side surface portion spanning between the upper and lower surface
portions and forming a body peripheral edge, wherein at least a
portion of the body portion abuts to a segment of a barrier layer
peripheral edge at an interface region; wherein the at least one
electrical connector assembly further includes at least one
component at least partially embedded in the body side surface
portion and the connector assembly component includes a connector
assembly lower surface portion, a connector assembly upper surface
portion and a connector assembly side surface portion spanning
between the upper and lower surface portions which forms a
connector assembly peripheral edge, wherein the connector assembly
peripheral edge that is closest to the interface region has at
least one rounded connector corner, and the connector assembly is
in electrical communication with a photovoltaic cell layer of the
photovoltaic cell assembly.
28. The photovoltaic device according to claim 23, wherein: the
multilayered photovoltaic cell assembly is comprised of: the
barrier layer with a barrier layer material having a barrier
coefficient of linear thermal expansion and a photovoltaic cell
layer disposed inboard of a barrier layer peripheral edge, the
barrier layer including a barrier lower surface portion, a barrier
upper surface portion and a barrier side surface portion spanning
between the upper and lower surface portions with a barrier profile
between the upper and lower surface portions and a barrier
perimeter spanning about the barrier layer which forms the barrier
layer peripheral edge; the body portion comprised of: a body
material with a body coefficient of linear thermal expansion, the
body portion with a body lower surface portion, body upper surface
portion and a body side surface portion spanning between the upper
and lower surface portions and forming a body peripheral edge,
wherein at least a portion of the body portion abuts to a segment
of the barrier layer peripheral edge at an interface region.
29. The photovoltaic device according to claim 23, comprising an
intermediate layer comprised of a layer material and including a
layer elastic modulus value, a layer ultimate elongation value, a
layer coefficient of thermal expansion value and a layer strength
value, wherein the intermediate layer is at least partially
disposed between the three-dimensional multi-layered photovoltaic
cell assembly and the body portion.
30. The photovoltaic device according to claim 23, wherein the
localized thinning of the main body portion has a width that is
about 2.5 mm to 12.5 mm.
31. The photovoltaic device according to claim 30, wherein the
barrier layer includes corners with a barrier layer peripheral edge
extending therebetween and the relieving feature extends along at
least about 50 percent of the barrier layer peripheral edge between
the corners.
32. The photovoltaic device according to claim 31, wherein the
relieving feature is located along at least about 90 percent of the
barrier layer peripheral edge between the corners.
33. The photovoltaic device according to claim 30, wherein the
relieving feature directly abuts the connector housing.
34. The photovoltaic device according to claim 23, wherein the body
portion is around at least a portion of the peripheral edge of the
multi-layered photovoltaic cell assembly and a bottom of the
three-dimensional multi-layered photovoltaic cell assembly is a
bottom of the photovoltaic device at the three-dimensional
multi-layered photovoltaic cell assembly.
35. The photovoltaic device according to claim 30, wherein the body
portion is around at least a portion of the peripheral edge of the
multi-layered photovoltaic cell assembly and a bottom of the
three-dimensional multi-layered photovoltaic cell assembly is a
bottom of the photovoltaic device at the three-dimensional
multi-layered photovoltaic cell assembly.
36. The photovoltaic device according to claim 23, wherein the
localized thinning has a depth of at least 50 percent that of a
depth of the three-dimensional multi-layered photovoltaic cell
assembly, and wherein the localized thinning of the main body
portion is a channel.
37. The photovoltaic device according to claim 23, wherein the
elastomeric material comprises butyl rubber, ionomers, silicone
rubber, polyurethane elastomers, polyolefin elastomers, or any
combination thereof.
Description
CLAIM OF PRIORITY
[0001] The present application claims the benefit of the filing
date of U.S. Provisional Application No. 61/424325 filed on Dec.
17, 2010 the contents of which are hereby incorporated by reference
in their entirety.
FIELD OF THE INVENTION
[0003] The present invention relates to an improved photovoltaic
device ("PVD" or "PV device"), more particularly to an improved
photovoltaic device with a multilayered photovoltaic cell assembly
in the form of a panel and a body portion joined at an interface
region including at least one interconnecting member, at least one
interconnecting structural member, relieving feature, unique
component geometry, or any combination thereof.
BACKGROUND
[0004] Efforts to improve PV devices, particularly those devices
that are integrated into building structures (e.g. roofing shingles
or exterior wall coverings), to be used successfully, should
satisfy a number of criteria. The PV device should be durable (e.g.
long lasting, sealed against moisture and other environmental
conditions) and protected from mechanical abuse over the desired
lifetime of the product, preferably at least 10 years, more
preferably at least 25 years. The device should be easily installed
(e.g. installation similar to conventional roofing shingles or
exterior wall coverings) or replaced (e.g. if damaged). It may be
desirable to choose materials and components, along with design
features that aid in meeting the desired durability requirements
such as being free of deformations that would impair performance
(for example as published in United Laboratories UL 1703 Standard
ISBN 0-7629-0760-6 and or Temperature Cycling Test pursuant to
IEC16646).
[0005] To make this full package desirable to the consumer, and to
gain wide acceptance in the marketplace, the system should be
inexpensive to build and install. This may help facilitate lower
generated cost of energy, making PV technology more competitive
relative to other means of generating electricity.
[0006] Existing art systems for PV devices may allow for the device
to be directly mounted to the building structure or they may fasten
the devices to battens, channels or "rails" ("stand-offs)) above
the building exterior (e.g. roof deck or exterior cladding). These
systems may be complicated, typically do not install like
conventional cladding materials (e.g. roofing shingles or siding)
and, as a consequence, may be expensive to install. Also, they may
not be visually appealing as they do not look like conventional
building materials. "Stand-offs" to mount PV device every 2-4 feet
may be required. Thus, installation cost can be as much or more as
the cost of the article. They also may suffer from issues related
to environmental conditions such as warping, fading and degradation
of its physical properties.
[0007] Among the literature that can pertain to this technology
include the following patent documents: US20080190047(A1); U.S.
Pat. No. 4,321,416; U.S. Pat. No. 5,575,861; U.S. Pat. No.
5,437,735; U.S. Pat. No. 5,990,414; U.S. Pat. No. 6,840,799;
EP1744372; U.S. Pat. No. 6,875,914; U.S. Pat. No. 5,590,495; U.S.
Pat. No. 5,986,203; US2008/0115822; EP1923920; U.S. Pat. No.
7,365,266; US20070295393 A1; US20070295392 A1; WO 2008/139102; WO
2009/042496; WO 2009/042492; WO 2009/042523; WO 2009/042522; and
U.S. Provisional 61/233,527, all incorporated herein by reference
for all purposes.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
[0008] The present invention is directed to a PV device that
addresses at least one or more of the issues described in the above
paragraphs.
[0009] Accordingly, pursuant to one aspect of the present
invention, there is contemplated a photovoltaic device that
includes at least: a three-dimensional multi-layered photovoltaic
cell assembly in the form of a panel with at least a top surface, a
bottom surface, and a peripheral edge, further including a barrier
layer; a body portion, wherein the body portion is at least
partially surrounding a portion of the top surface and peripheral
edge of the three-dimensional multi-layered photovoltaic cell
assembly; and at least one relieving feature disposed in the panel
or in the body portion adapted to allow elastic deformation of the
photovoltaic device over a temperature range.
[0010] The invention may be further characterized by one or any
combination of the features described herein, such as the
three-dimensional multi-layered photovoltaic cell assembly includes
at least one electrical connector assembly with a connector
housing, the housing having an outer surface; the three-dimensional
multi-layered photovoltaic cell assembly includes two electrical
connector assemblies disposed on opposite sides of the assembly;
the plurality of relieving features are disposed in the body
portion at least partially between the barrier layer and the
housing of the two electrical connector assemblies; the relieving
features are disposed within 15.0 mm of the barrier layer of the
three-dimensional multi-layered photovoltaic cell assembly along at
least 50 percent of a top peripheral edge; the relieving features
are disposed within 5.0 mm of a top peripheral edge of the
connector housing; the relieving feature comprises a barrier layer
divided in at least two pieces with at least a relieving
elastomeric barrier between each piece; the relieving feature
comprises at least a partial thinning of the body portion between a
corner of the connector housing and a rounded barrier perimeter
corner; the relieving feature comprises a localized thinning of the
body portion, wherein the localized thinning has a depth of at
least 50 percent that of a depth of the three-dimensional
multi-layered photovoltaic cell assembly; the relieving feature
includes an elastomeric filling material; the barrier layer is
comprised of a glass with a thickness of 1.0 to 5.0 mm; at least
one interconnecting structural member; at least the body portion is
comprised of: a body material with a body CLTE, the body portion
with a body lower surface portion, body upper surface portion and a
body side surface portion spanning between the upper and lower
surface portions and forming a body peripheral edge, wherein at
least a portion of the body portion abuts to a segment of the
barrier layer peripheral edge at an interface region; (A) the
segment of the barrier layer peripheral edge that abuts the portion
of the body portion has rounded barrier perimeter corners within
the segment and/or (B) the device further includes at least one
component of the electrical connector assembly at least partially
embedded in the body side surface portion and the connector
assembly component includes a connector assembly lower surface
portion, a connector assembly upper surface portion and a connector
assembly side surface portion spanning between the upper and lower
surface portions which forms a connector assembly peripheral edge,
wherein the connector assembly peripheral edge that is closest to
the interface region has at least one rounded connector corner, and
the connector assembly is in electrical communication with the
photovoltaic cell layer; the multilayered photovoltaic cell
assembly is comprised of: at least a barrier layer with a barrier
CLTE and a photovoltaic cell layer disposed inboard of a barrier
layer peripheral edge, the barrier layer including a barrier lower
surface portion, a barrier upper surface portion and a barrier side
surface portion spanning between the upper and lower surface
portions with a barrier profile between the upper and lower surface
portions and a barrier perimeter spanning about the barrier layer
which forms the barrier layer peripheral edge; the body portion
comprised of: a body material with a body CLTE, the body portion
with a body lower surface portion, body upper surface portion and a
body side surface portion spanning between the upper and lower
surface portions and forming a body peripheral edge, wherein at
least a portion of the body portion abuts to a segment of the
barrier layer peripheral edge at an interface region; the body
portion includes a bending region that has a thickness ("TBR") of
about 2.5 mm to 4.0 mm, further wherein the bending region that has
a starting point away from the interface region by a distance
defined by greater than or equal to a Constant X'* (body
CLTE/barrier CLTE)+a Constant C', wherein X' ranges from 1.0 to 5.0
and C' ranges from 1.0 to 5.0; an intermediate layer comprised of a
layer material and including a layer elastic modulus value, a layer
ultimate elongation value, a layer coefficient of thermal expansion
value and a layer strength value, wherein the intermediate layer is
at least partially disposed between the three-dimensional
multi-layered photovoltaic cell assembly and the body portion
assembly.
[0011] It should be appreciated that the above referenced aspects
and examples are non-limiting, as others exist within the present
invention, as shown and described herein.
DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0012] FIG. 1 is a plan view of an illustrative PV device according
to the present invention.
[0013] FIG. 2A is a perspective and exploded view of an
illustrative PV device according to the present invention.
[0014] FIG. 2B is a perspective and exploded view of another
illustrative PV device according to the present invention.
[0015] FIG. 3 is a plan view of an illustrative connector housing
according to the present invention.
[0016] FIG. 4A is a partial plan view of an illustrative PV device
showing an exemplary position of an interconnecting member.
[0017] FIG. 4B is a sectional view of FIG. 4A.
[0018] FIG. 5A is a partial plan view of an illustrative PV device
showing another exemplary position of an interconnecting
member.
[0019] FIG. 5B is a sectional view of FIG. 5A.
[0020] FIG. 6A is a partial plan view of an illustrative PV device
showing yet another exemplary position of an interconnecting
member.
[0021] FIG. 6B is an exemplary sectional view of FIG. 6A.
[0022] FIG. 6C is another exemplary sectional view of FIG. 6A.
[0023] FIG. 7A is a partial plan view of an illustrative PV device
showing yet another exemplary position of an interconnecting
member.
[0024] FIG. 7B is an exemplary sectional view of FIG. 7A.
[0025] FIG. 7C is another exemplary sectional view of FIG. 7A.
[0026] FIG. 8 is a plan view of an illustrative PV device showing
an exemplary position of an interconnecting structural member.
[0027] FIG. 9A is a plan view of an illustrative PV device showing
another exemplary position of an interconnecting structural
member.
[0028] FIG. 9B is a sectional view of 9A through the connector and
showing the interface to the layer 122.
[0029] FIG. 10 is a partial plan view of an illustrative PV device
showing another exemplary position of an interconnecting structural
member.
[0030] FIGS. 11A-F are sectional views of exemplary relief channels
(relieving features) according to the present invention.
[0031] FIG. 12 is a plan view of an illustrative PV device showing
an exemplary position of a relieving feature.
[0032] FIG. 13 is a plan view of an illustrative PV device showing
other exemplary positions of relieving features.
[0033] FIG. 14 is a plan view of an illustrative PV device showing
an exemplary relieving feature in layer 122.
[0034] FIG. 15 is a plan view of an illustrative PV device showing
other exemplary positions of relieving features.
[0035] FIG. 16 is a plan view of an illustrative PV device showing
other exemplary positions of relieving features.
[0036] FIG. 17 is a perspective view of an illustrative barrier
layer according to the present invention.
[0037] FIG. 18 is a plan view of FIG. 17.
[0038] FIG. 19 is a plan view of another illustrative PV device
according to the present invention.
[0039] FIG. 20 is a plan view of another illustrative PV device
according to the present invention.
[0040] FIG. 21 is a side view of several PV devices on a building
structure.
[0041] FIG. 22 is a close sectional view of an illustrative bending
region according to the present invention.
[0042] FIG. 23 is a close sectional view of another illustrative
bending region according to the present invention.
[0043] FIG. 24 is a side view showing an illustrative desirable
cant.
[0044] FIG. 25 is a side view showing an illustrative un-desirable
cant.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENT
[0045] The present invention relates to an improved photovoltaic
device 10 (hereafter "PV device"), as illustrated in FIG. 1, can be
described generally as an assembly of a number of components and
component assemblies that functions to provide electrical energy
when subjected to solar radiation (e.g. sunlight). Of particular
interest and the main focus of the present disclosure is an
improved PV device 10 that includes at least a multilayered
photovoltaic cell assembly 100 (hereafter "MPCA") joined to a body
portion 200. In a preferred embodiment, the PV device is formed by
taking the MPCA (and potentially other components and assemblies
such as connector components) and forming (e.g. via injection
molding) the body portion about at least portions the MPCA. It is
contemplated that the relationships (e.g. at least the geometric
properties and the material properties) between the components and
component assemblies are surprisingly important in solving one or
more of the issues discussed in the background section above. Of
particular interest in this invention is where the PV device 10 is
utilized for what is commonly known as Building-Integrated
Photovoltaics, or BIPV. Each of the components and component
assemblies and their relationships are disclosed in greater detail
and specificity in the following paragraphs.
Multilayered Photovoltaic Cell Assembly (MPCA) 100
[0046] It is contemplated that the MPCA 100 may be a compilation of
numerous layers and components/assemblies, for example as disclosed
in currently pending International patent application No.
PCT/US09/042496, incorporated herein by reference. The MPCA
contains at least a barrier layer 122 and a photovoltaic cell layer
110 (generally located inboard of the peripheral edge of the
barrier layer 122). It is contemplated that the MPCA 100 may also
contain other layers, such as encapsulant layers and other
protective layers. Illustrative examples are shown in the figures
and are discussed below. Exploded views of exemplary MPCAs 100 are
shown in FIG. 2A and 2B. It is contemplated that the overall MPCA
100 thickness MT may be about 1 to 12 mm, preferably about 2 to
9mm, and most preferably less than about 9.0 mm.
[0047] Functionally, these encapsulant layers and other protective
layers may include a number of distinct layers that each serve to
protect and/or connect the MCPA 100 together. Each preferred layer
is described in further detail below, moving from the "top" (e.g.
the layer most exposed to the elements) to the "bottom" (e.g. the
layer most closely contacting the building or structure). In
general each preferred layer or sheet may be a single layer or may
itself comprise sub layers.
Barrier Layer 122
[0048] The barrier layer 122 may function as an environmental
shield for the MPCA 100 generally, and more particularly as an
environmental shield for at least a portion of the photovoltaic
cell layer 110. The barrier layer 122 is preferably constructed of
a transparent or translucent material that allows light energy to
pass through to the photoactive portion of the photovoltaic cell
layer 110. This material may be flexible (e.g. a thin polymeric
film, a multi-layer film, glass, or glass composite) or be rigid
(e.g. a thick glass or Plexiglas such as polycarbonate). The
material may also be characterized by being resistant to
moisture/particle penetration or build up. The barrier layer 122
may also function to filter certain wavelengths of light such that
unpreferred wavelengths may not reach the photovoltaic cells. In a
preferred embodiment, the barrier layer 122 material will also
range in thickness from about 0.05 mm to 10.0 mm, more preferably
from about 0.1 mm to 4.0 mm, and most preferably from 2.5 mm to 3.5
mm. Other physical characteristics, at least in the case of a film,
may include: a tensile strength of greater than 20 MPa (as measured
by JIS K7127); tensile elongation of 1% or greater (as measured by
JIS K7127); and/or a water absorption (23.degree. C., 24 hours) of
0.05% or less (as measured per ASTM D570); and/or a coefficient of
linear expansion ("CLTE") of about 5.times.10-6 mm/mm.degree. C. to
100.times.10-6 mm/mm.degree. C., more preferably of about
10.times.10-6 mm/mm.degree. C. to 80.times.10-6 mm/mm.degree. C.,
and most preferably from about 20.times.10-6 mm/mm.degree. C. to
50.times.10-6 mm/mm.degree. C. Other physical characteristics, at
least in the case of a thick glass, may include: a coefficient of
linear expansion ("CLTE") of about 5.times.10-6 mm/mm.degree. C. to
about 140.times.10-6 mm/mm.degree. C., preferably of about
7.times.10-6 mm/mm.degree. C. to about 50.times.10-6 mm/mm.degree.
C., more preferably from about 8 x10-6 mm/mm.degree. C. to about
30.times.10-6 mm/mm.degree. C., and most preferably from about
9.times.10-6 mm/mm.degree. C. to about 15.times.10-6 mm/mm.degree.
C. Other physical characteristics, at least in the case of a thick
glass, may include: a density of about 2.42 g/cm.sup.3 to about
2.52 g/cm.sup.3, a tensile strength of between about 75 to 200
N/sq.mm, a compressive strength of between 500 and 1200 N/sq.mm, a
modulus of elasticity of between 60-80 GPa, a CLTE of about
9.times.10-6 mm/mm.degree. C., and a visible light transmission of
at least about 85%, preferably about at least 87%, more preferably
at least about 90%.
First Encapsulant Layer 124
[0049] In one example of an encapsulant layer, a first encapsulant
layer 124 may be disposed below the barrier layer 122 and generally
above the photovoltaic cell layer 110. It is contemplated that the
first encapsulant layer 124 may serve as a bonding mechanism,
helping hold the adjacent layers together. It should also allow the
transmission of a desirous amount and type of light energy to reach
the photovoltaic cell 110. The first encapsulant layer 124 may also
function to compensate for irregularities in geometry of the
adjoining layers or translated through those layers (e.g. thickness
changes). It also may serve to allow flexure and movement between
layers due to temperature change and physical movement and bending.
In a preferred embodiment, first encapsulant layer 124 may consist
essentially of an adhesive film or mesh, preferably an EVA
(ethylene-vinyl-acetate), thermoplastic polyolefin, polyurethanes,
ionomers, silicon based polymers or similar material. The preferred
thickness of this layer range from about 0.1 mm to 1.0 mm, more
preferably from about 0.2 mm to 0.8 mm, and most preferably from
about 0.25 mm to 0.5 mm.
Photovoltaic Cell Layer 110
[0050] The photovoltaic cell layer 110 contemplated in the present
invention may be constructed of any number of known photovoltaic
cells commercially available or may be selected from some future
developed photovoltaic cells. These cells function to translate
light energy into electricity. The photoactive portion of the
photovoltaic cell is the material which converts light energy to
electrical energy. Any material known to provide that function may
be used including crystalline silicon, amorphous silicon, CdTe,
GaAs, dye-sensitized solar cells (so-called Gratezel cells),
organic/polymer solar cells, or any other material that converts
sunlight into electricity via the photoelectric effect. However,
the photoactive layer is preferably a layer of
IB-IIIA-chalcogenide, such as IB-IIIA-selenides, IB-IIIA-sulfides,
or IB-IIIA-selenide sulfides. More specific examples include copper
indium selenides, copper indium gallium selenides, copper gallium
selenides, copper indium sulfides, copper indium gallium sulfides,
copper gallium selenides, copper indium sulfide selenides, copper
gallium sulfide selenides, and copper indium gallium sulfide
selenides (all of which are referred to herein as CIGSS). These can
also be represented by the formula Culn(1-x)GaxSe(2-y)Sy where x is
0 to 1 and y is 0 to 2. The copper indium selenides and copper
indium gallium selenides are preferred. Additional electroactive
layers such as one or more of emitter (buffer) layers, conductive
layers (e.g. transparent conductive layers) and the like as is
known in the art to be useful in CIGSS based cells are also
contemplated herein. These cells may be flexible or rigid and come
in a variety of shapes and sizes, but generally are fragile and
subject to environmental degradation. In a preferred embodiment,
the photovoltaic cell assembly 110 is a cell that can bend without
substantial cracking and/or without significant loss of
functionality. Exemplary photovoltaic cells are taught and
described in a number of US patents and publications, including
U.S. Pat. No. 3,767,471, U.S. Pat. No. 4,465,575, US20050011550 A1,
EP841706 A2, US20070256734 a1, EP1032051A2, JP2216874, JP2143468,
and JP10189924a, incorporated hereto by reference for all
purposes.
[0051] The photovoltaic cell layer 110, for example as illustrated
in FIG. 2B, may also include electrical circuitry, such as buss
bar(s) 111 that are electrically connected to the cells, the
connector assembly component(s) 300 and generally run from side to
side of the PV device 10. This area may be known as the buss bar
region 311.
Second Encapsulant Layer 126
[0052] In another example of an encapsulant layer, a second
encapsulant layer 126 is generally connectively located below the
photovoltaic cell layer 110, although in some instances, it may
directly contact the top layer 122 and/or the first encapsulant
layer 124. It is contemplated that the second encapsulant layer 126
may serve a similar function as the first encapsulant layer,
although it does not necessarily need to transmit electromagnetic
radiation or light energy.
Back Sheet 128
[0053] In an example of a protective layer there may be a back
sheet 128 which is connectively located below the second
encapsulant layer 126. The back sheet 128 may serve as an
environmental protection layer (e.g. to keep out moisture and/or
particulate matter from the layers above). It is preferably
constructed of a flexible material (e.g. a thin polymeric film, a
metal foil, a multi-layer film, or a rubber sheet). In a preferred
embodiment, the back sheet 128 material may be moisture impermeable
and also range in thickness from about 0.05mm to 10.0 mm, more
preferably from about 0.1 mm to 4.0 mm, and most preferably from
about 0.2 mm to 0.8 mm. Other physical characteristics may include:
elongation at break of about 20% or greater (as measured by ASTM
D882); tensile strength or about 25 MPa or greater (as measured by
ASTM D882); and tear strength of about 70 kN/m or greater (as
measured with the Graves Method). Examples of preferred materials
include: glass plate; aluminum foil; poly (vinyl fluoride) (for
example, commercially available as Tedlar.RTM. (a trademark of
DuPont)); poly (ethylene terephthalate); copolymer of
tetrafluoroethylene and hexafluoroethylene (also known as "FEP");
poly (ethylene tetrafluoroethylene); poly (ethylene naphthalate);
poly (methyl methacrylate); and polycarbonate, or a combination
thereof.
Supplemental Barrier Sheet 130
[0054] In another example of a protective layer there may be a
supplemental barrier sheet 130 which is connectively located below
the back sheet 128. The supplemental barrier sheet 130 may act as a
barrier, protecting the layers above from environmental conditions
and from physical damage that may be caused by any features of the
structure on which the PV device 10 is subjected to (e.g. For
example, irregularities in a roof deck, protruding objects or the
like). It is contemplated that this is an optional layer and may
not be required. It is also contemplated that this layer may serve
the same functions as the body portion 200. In a preferred
embodiment, the supplemental barrier sheet 130 material may be at
least partially moisture impermeable and also range in thickness
from about 0.25 mm to 10.0 mm, more preferably from about 0.5 mm to
2.0 mm, and most preferably from 0.8 mm to 1.2 mm. It is preferred
that this layer exhibit elongation at break of about 20% or greater
(as measured by ASTM D882); tensile strength or about 10 MPa or
greater (as measured by ASTM D882); and tear strength of about 35
kN/m or greater (as measured with the Graves Method). Examples of
preferred materials include thermoplastic polyolefin ("TPO"),
thermoplastic elastomer, olefin block copolymers ("OBC"), natural
rubbers, synthetic rubbers, polyvinyl chloride, and other
elastomeric and plastomeric materials. Alternately the protective
layer could be comprised of more rigid materials so as to provide
additional roofing function under structural and environmental
(e.g. wind) loadings. Additional rigidity may also be desirable so
as to improve the coefficient of thermal expansion of the PV device
10 and maintain the desired dimensions during temperature
fluctuations. Examples of protective layer materials for structural
properties include polymeric materials such polyolefins,
polyesters, polyamides, polyimides, polyester amides, polysulfone,
acetal, acrylic, polyvinyl chloride, nylon, polycarbonate,
phenolic, polyetheretherketone, polyethylene terephthalate,
epoxies, including glass and mineral filled composites or any
combination thereof.
[0055] The above described layers may be configured or stacked in a
number of combinations, but it is preferred that the barrier layer
122 is the top layer. Additionally, it is contemplated that these
layers may be integrally joined together via any number of methods,
including but not limited to: adhesive joining; heat or vibration
welding; over-molding; or mechanical fasteners.
[0056] For the sake of clarity in view of some of the embodiments
discussed below, the MPCA 100 can be further described in another
fashion, as a two part assembly. The first part, the MPCA
subassembly 101, comprising all the layers of the MPCA 100 (with
the exception of the barrier layer 122) and the second part being
the barrier layer 122. The barrier layer 122 may also be described
as having a length "L.sub.BL" and a width "W.sub.BL", for example
as labeled in FIG. 2A. Preferably, the L.sub.BL ranges from about
0.75 to about 1.25 times that of the L.sub.BP discussed below, more
preferably the lengths are within about 5-10% of each other. Also
contemplated is that the MPCA subassembly 101 may have an overall
CLTE ("subassembly CLTE") that ranges from about 30.times.10-6
mm/mm.degree. C. to 150.times.10-6 mm/mm.degree. C., more
preferably about 50.times.10-6 mm/mm.degree. C. to 100.times.10-6
mm/mm.degree. C.
Body Portion 200
[0057] It is contemplated that the body portion 200 may be a
compilation of components/assemblies, but is preferably generally a
polymeric article that is formed by injecting a polymer (or polymer
blend) into a mold (with or without inserts such as the MPCA 100 or
the other component(s) (e.g. connector component)--discussed later
in the application), for example as disclosed in currently pending
International patent application No. PCT/US09/042496, incorporated
herein by reference. The body portion 200 functions as the main
structural carrier for the PV device 10 and should be constructed
in a manner consistent with this. For example, it can essentially
function as a plastic framing material. It is contemplated that the
body portion 200 should adhere to MPCA 100 with an adhesion
strength no less than the stress due to thermal expansion.
[0058] It is contemplated that the compositions that make up the
body portion 200 also exhibit a coefficient of linear thermal
expansion ("CLTE") of about 0.5.times.10-6 mm/mm.degree. C. to
about 140.times.10-6 mm/mm.degree. C., preferably of about
3.times.10-6 mm/mm.degree. C. to about 50.times.10-6 mm/mm.degree.
C., more preferably from about 5.times.10-6 mm/mm.degree. C. to
about 30.times.10-6 mm/mm.degree. C., and most preferably from
about 7.times.10-6 mm/mm.degree. C. to about 15.times.10-6
mm/mm.degree. C. Most desirably, the CLTE of the composition that
makes up the body portion 200 should closely match the CLTE of the
barrier layer 122. Preferably the CLTE of the composition making up
the body portion 200 disclosed herein are also characterized by a
coefficient of linear thermal expansion (CLTE) is within factor of
20, more preferably within a factor of 15, still more preferably
within a factor of 10, even more preferably within a factor of 5,
and most preferably within a factor of 2 of the CLTE of the barrier
layer 122. For example, if the barrier layer 122 has a CLTE of
9.times.10-6 mm/mm.degree. C., then the CLTE of the molding
composition is preferably between 180.times.10-6 mm/mm.degree. C.
and 0.45.times.10-6 mm/mm.degree. C. (a factor of 20); more
preferably between 135.times.10-6 mm/mm.degree. C. and
0.6.times.10-6 mm/mm.degree. C. (a factor of 15); still more
preferably between 90.times.10-6 mm/mm.degree. C. and
0.9.times.10-6 mm/mm.degree. C. (a factor of 10); even more
preferably between 45.times.10-6 mm/mm.degree. C. and
1.8.times.10-6 mm/mm.degree. C. (a factor of 5) and most preferably
between 18.times.10-6 mm/mm.degree. C. and 4.5.times.10-6
mm/mm.degree. C. (a factor of 2). Matching the CLTE's between the
composition comprising the body portion 200 and the barrier layer
122 is important for minimizing thermally-induced stresses on the
BIPV device during temperature changes, which can potentially
result in cracking, breaking of PV cells, etc.
[0059] For some embodiments of the photovoltaic articles disclosed
herein, the barrier layer 122 includes a glass barrier layer. If
the barrier layer 122 includes a glass layer, the CLTE of the
molding composition is preferably less than 80.times.10-6
mm/mm.degree. C., more preferably less than 70.times.10-6
mm/mm.degree. C., still more preferably less than 50.times.10-6
mm/mm.degree. C., and most preferably less than 30.times.10-6
mm/mm.degree. C. Preferably, the CLTE of the novel composition is
greater than 5.times.10-6 mm/mm.degree. C.
[0060] When glass is used (as the barrier layer 122), the
compositions of the body material preferably have an elongation at
break of at least 3% but not typically more than 200%. It is also
contemplated, when glass is not used, that the body material
preferably has an elongation at break of at least 100%, more
preferably at least 200%, more preferably still at least 300% and
preferably no more than 500%. The tensile elongation at break of
compositions were determined by test method ASTM D638-08 (2008) @
23.degree. C. using a test speed of 50 mm/min.
[0061] In a preferred embodiment, the body support portion 200 may
comprise (be substantially constructed from) a body material. This
body material may be a filled or unfilled moldable plastic (e.g.
polyolefins, acrylonitrile butadiene styrene (SAN), hydrogenated
styrene butadiene rubbers, polyesters, polyamides, polyester
amides, polyether imide, polyimides, polysulfone, acetal, acrylic,
polyvinyl chloride, nylon, polyethylene terephthalate,
polycarbonate, thermoplastic and thermoset polyurethanes, synthetic
and natural rubbers, epoxies, SAN, Acrylic, polystyrene, or any
combination thereof). Fillers (preferably up to about 50% by
weight) may include one or more of the following: colorants, fire
retardant (FR) or ignition resistant (IR) materials, reinforcing
materials, such as glass or mineral fibers, surface modifiers.
Plastic may also include anti-oxidants, release agents, blowing
agents, and other common plastic additives. In a preferred
embodiment, glass fiber filler is used. The glass fiber preferably
has a fiber length (after molding) ranging from about 0.1 mm to
about 2.5 mm with an average glass length ranging from about 0.7 mm
to 1.2 mm.
[0062] In a preferred embodiment, the body material
(composition(s)) has a melt flow rate of at least 5 g/10 minutes,
more preferably at least 10 g/10 minutes. The melt flow rate is
preferably less than 100 g/10 minutes, more preferably less than 50
g/10 minutes and most preferably less than 30 g/10 minutes. The
melt flow rate of compositions were determined by test method ASTM
D1238-04, "REV C Standard Test Method for Melt Flow Rates of
Thermoplastics by Extrusion Plastometer", 2004 Condition L
(230.degree. C./2.16 Kg). Polypropylene resins used in this
application also use this same test method and condition. The melt
flow rate of polyethylene and ethylene--.alpha.-olefin copolymers
in this invention are measured using Condition E (190.degree.
C./2.16 Kg), commonly referred to as the melt index.
[0063] In all embodiments, the compositions have flexural modulus
of at least 200 MPa, more preferably at least 400 MPa and most
preferably at least 700 MPa. According to the preferred embodiment
where the MPCA 100 includes a glass layer, the flexural modulus is
preferably at least 1000 and no greater than 7000 MPa. According to
the second embodiment, the flexural modulus is no greater than 1500
MPa, more preferably no greater than 1200 MPa, most preferably no
greater than 1000 MPa. The flexural modulus of compositions were
determined by test method ASTM D790-07 (2007) using a test speed of
2 mm/min. It is contemplated that the compositions that make up the
body portion 200 also exhibit a coefficient of linear thermal
expansion ("body CLTE") of about 25.times.10-6 mm/mm.degree. C. to
70.times.10-6 mm/mm.degree. C., more preferably of about
27.times.10-6 mm/mm.degree. C. to 60.times.10-6 mm/mm.degree. C.,
and most preferably from about 30.times.10-6 mm/mm.degree. C. to
40.times.10-6 mm/mm.degree. C.
[0064] Preferably, the novel compositions are characterized as
having an RTI Electrical and an RTI Mechanical Strength, each of
which is at least 85.degree. C., preferably at least 90.degree. C.,
more preferably at least 95.degree. C., still more preferably at
least 100.degree. C., and most preferably at least 105.degree.
C.
[0065] RTI (Relative Thermal Index) is determined by the test
procedure detailed in UL 746B (Nov. 29, 2000). Essentially a key
characteristic of the plastic is measured at the start of the test
(for instance tensile strength), and then samples placed in at
least four elevated temperatures (e. g. 130, 140, 150, 160 deg C)
and samples periodically tested throughout several months. The
reductions in key properties are then tested, and working criteria
established from comparison results of known materials of proven
field service. The effective lifetime of the unknown sample is then
determined compared to the known material. RTI is expressed in
degrees C. The test takes a minimum of 5000 hours to complete, and
can be both time-consuming and costly.
[0066] Because RTI is an expensive and time-consuming test, a
useful proxy for guiding the skilled artisan in selecting useful
compositions is the melting point, as determined by differential
scanning calorimetry (DSC). It is preferred that for the
compositions set forth as useful herein, no melting point is seen
at temperatures less than 160.degree. C. in differential scanning
calorimetry for a significant portion of the composition and
preferably no melting point is seen under 160.degree. C. for the
entire composition. The Differential Scanning calorimetry profiles
were determined by test method ASTM D7426-08 (2008) with a heating
rate of 10.degree. C./min. If a significant fraction of the
injection molding composition melts at temperatures below
160.degree. C., it is unlikely that the composition will pass the
UL RTI tests 746B for Electrical, Mechanical Strength,
Flammability, and Mechanical Impact with a high enough rating to
adequately function when used in the PV device 10 (particularly
when uses as a BIPV).
[0067] It is contemplated that the body portion 200 may be any
number of shapes and sizes. For example, it may be square,
rectangular, triangular, oval, circular or any combination thereof.
The body portion 200 may also be described as having a length
"L.sub.BP" and a width "W.sub.BP", for example as labeled in FIG.
2A and may be as little as 10 cm and as much as 500 cm or more,
respectively. It may also have a thickness (t) that may range from
as little as about 1 mm to as much as 20 mm or more and may vary in
different area of the body portion 200. Preferably, the body
portion 200 can be described as having a body lower surface portion
202, body upper surface portion 204 and a body side surface portion
206 spanning between the upper and lower surface portions and
forming a body peripheral edge 208.
Connector Assembly
[0068] The connector assembly functions to allow for electrical
communication to and/or from the PV device 10. This communication
may be in conjunction with circuitry connected to the photovoltaic
cell layer 110 or may just facilitate communication through and
across the PV device 10 via other circuitry. The connector assembly
may be constructed of various components and assemblies, and the
main focus of this invention relates to the connector assembly
component(s) 300 that are integral to (embedded within) the PV
device. Generally, as illustrated in FIG. 3, this component 300
comprises a polymeric housing 310 and electrical leads 320
protruding into the PV device 10, although other configurations are
contemplated. Examples of preferred materials that make up the
housing 310 include: Polymeric compounds or blends of PBT
(Polybutylene Terephthalate), PPO (Polypropylene Oxide), PPE
(Polyphenylene ether), PPS (Polyphenylene sulfide), PA (Poly Amid)
and PEI (polyether imide) and these can be with or without fillers
of up to 65% by weight. It is contemplated that the compositions
that make up the housing 310 also exhibit a coefficient of linear
thermal expansion ("CLTE") in the flow direction of about
12.times.10-6 mm/mm.degree. C. to 100.times.10-6 mm/mm.degree. C.,
more preferably of about 15.times.10-6 mm/mm.degree. C. to
80.times.10-6 mm/mm.degree. C., and most preferably from about
20.times.10-6 mm/mm.degree. C. to 60.times.10-6 mm/mm.degree.
C.
[0069] It is contemplated that the housing 310 may be constructed
of any number of materials (as shown above), but preferably with
material characteristics such as: a tensile modulus that is at
least about 0.1 GPa, more preferably about 1 GPa, and most
preferably about 10 GPa or more; ultimate elongation value of about
1 percent, more preferably about 1.5 percent, and most preferably
about 2.5 percent or more; coefficient of linear thermal expansion
value of about 50.times.10-6 mm/mm.degree. C., more preferably
about 30.times.10-6 mm/mm.degree. C., and most preferably about
20.times.10-6 mm/mm.degree. C.
[0070] In this illustrative connector housing 310, the housing may
be further defined as having a connector assembly lower surface
portion 312, a connector assembly upper surface portion 314 and a
connector assembly side surface portion 316 that spans between the
upper and lower surface portions. The side surface portion 316
forming a connector assembly peripheral edge 316'. Also located on
the side surface portion 316 may be flanges or projections 318.
[0071] In one embodiment, it is contemplated that the connector may
also include a latching feature (not shown) which may function to
positively latch a male and female connector portions together when
installed. This may be a preferred configuration in the case where
the intermediate layer 500, interconnecting structural member 1500,
relieving feature 2500, or any combination thereof are disposed
about the connector housing 310.
[0072] It is also contemplated that the "connector assembly" or
"connector housing 310" described above could be some other
component or object that is located in the same place in the PV
device 10. The relationships discussed in the following sections
also apply to this other component or object.
Intermediate Layer 500
[0073] Intermediate layer or layers may be provided in the device
10. The intermediate layer may function to aid in controlling
stress/strain due to the CLTE mismatch between the MPCA 100, the
body portion and/or the connector housing 310. It also may have the
added benefit of aiding in the overall dimensional stability of the
device, particularly in relation to the movement of the connector
housing 310 over a desired temperature range (e.g. about
-40.degree. C. to 90.degree. C.). Additionally, it may exhibit
moisture barrier properties, such as water vapor transmission rate
of preferably no greater than 50 g/m.sup.2-day at 38.degree. C. In
the case wherein the device 10 includes a relatively ridged
polygonal barrier layer 122 and at least one housing 310, it may
function as a bridge between the two components.
[0074] It is contemplated that the intermediate layer 500 may
comprise (be substantially constructed from) an intermediate layer
material. This intermediate layer material preferably may be
selected from a group consisting of materials such as butyl rubber,
ionomers, silicone rubber, polyurethane elastomers, polyolefin
elastomers can serve this purpose or composites thereof. In one
preferred embodiment, the layer material is formed from an
encapsulant layer, the encapsulant as described above.
[0075] In one embodiment, where the layer 500 is designed to
substantially absorb stresses, it is contemplated that the
intermediate layer 500 may be constructed of any number of
materials (as shown above), but preferably with material
characteristics such as: an tensile modulus that is less than about
300 MPa, more preferably less than about 50 MPa, and most
preferably about 1 MPa or less; ultimate elongation value of about
200 percent, more preferably about 500 percent, and most preferably
about 1200 percent or more.
[0076] In another embodiment, where the layer 500 may both absorb
and transfer the stresses, it is contemplated that the intermediate
layer 500 may be a material with an elastic (tensile or Young's)
modulus that is at least within (plus or minus) about 15 percent of
an elastic (tensile or Young's) modulus of any of (or all of) the
body portion 200, the MPCA 100, and the connector housing 310, more
preferably about 10 percent, and most preferably about 5 percent.
In a preferred embodiment, the layer elastic (tensile or Young's)
modulus that is at least 5 percent less than that the body portion
elastic (tensile or Young's) modulus or the cell elastic (tensile
or Young's) modulus. It is also contemplated, that in a preferred
embodiment, the layer material has a layer ultimate elongation
value at least 100 percent more than a body portion ultimate
elongation value, a cell ultimate elongation value, or both. It is
also contemplated, that in a preferred embodiment, the layer
material has a layer yield strength value at least 5 percent lower
than a body portion yield strength value and a cell yield strength
value. In an alternative way of defining the layer 500, it may
preferably be characterized as have a Young's modulus value ranging
from about 50 to 5000 MPa, more preferably from about 100 to 700
MPa, and most preferably from about 150 to 400 MPa.
[0077] It is contemplated that the intermediate layer 500 may be a
separate component that is disposed between the MPCA 100 and the at
least one connector 300 or may surround portions of the connector
300 and/or the top layer 122. The layer 500 may also be integral to
the MPCA 100. Illustrative examples are provided below.
Interconnecting Structural Member 1500
[0078] Interconnecting structural member or members may be provided
in the device 10. The interconnecting structural member 1500 may
function to aid in controlling stress/strain due to the CLTE
mismatch between the MPCA 100, the body portion and/or the
connector housing 310. It also may have the added benefit of aiding
in the overall dimensional stability of the device, particularly in
relation to the movement of the connector housing 310 over a
desired temperature range (e.g. about -40.degree. C. to 90.degree.
C.). In the case wherein the device 10 includes a relatively ridged
barrier layer 122 and at least one housing 310, it may function as
a bridge between the two components.
[0079] It is contemplated that the structural member 1500 may be
constructed of any number of materials, but preferably constructed
of a material with a tensile modulus that is at least about
1.25.times. that of a tensile modulus of the body portion, more
preferably about 1.5.times., and most preferably about 2.times. or
more. For example, using an inorganic material (such as a steel
reinforcement member that may have a modulus of about 206 GPa) this
range could be up to 200.times.. It is also contemplated that the
interconnecting structural member may be a material with a tensile
modulus that is virtually equivalent to a tensile modulus of the
top layer or as much as about 4.times. thereof. In one preferred
embodiment, the structural member 1500 tensile modulus is at least
within about 5 to 30 percent of a tensile modulus of the top layer
122, more preferably about 7 to 20 percent, and most preferably
about 10 to 15 percent. In a preferred embodiment, the
interconnecting structural member 1500 may comprise (be
substantially constructed from) an interconnecting structural
member material. The interconnecting structural member material
preferably may be selected from a group consisting of glass,
metals, ceramics, aluminum, steel, carbon fiber, filled and
unfilled polymers, or composites thereof.
[0080] It is contemplated that the structural member 1500 may be
integrated in the body, or may be a separate component that is
disposed between the MPCA 100 and the at least one connector 300 or
may be integral to the connector 300. The structural member 1500
may be used anywhere localized strain exist to minimize the strain.
(e.g. not only between the MPCA 100 and a connector) It is also
contemplated that the structural member 1500 may include locating
features that may aid in the positioning of itself or additional
components of the device 10.
Geometric and Material Property Relationships
[0081] It is believed that the choices of materials used in the
construction of the PV device 10 and its constituent components and
both the geometric and physical property relationships have an
effect on overall performance of the system (e.g. durability and
ease of assembly of multiple PV devices together). Balancing the
needs of ease of manufacture, costs and/or product performance
requirements may drive unique material choices and component design
(e.g. the use of at least one interconnecting member described
below; the use of at least one interconnecting structural member
described below; and/or relieving feature(s) 2500 therein). The
present invention contemplates these factors and provides a unique
solution to achieve a desired result.
[0082] It is contemplated that it may be desirous to match physical
properties as much as feasible of the various components such that
the complete system can work in harmony (e.g. all or most
components constructed from similar materials or material
families). Where this cannot be achieved fully, it is contemplated
that unique geometric design features/components (e.g.
interconnecting members; interconnecting structural members;
relieving features, and/or geometric designs of individual
components) may be needed. Of particular interest is the
relationship of choice of material properties of the body portion
200, the MPCA 100 as a whole (and in some case particularly the
barrier layer 122), and the connector 300, and the geometric
relationship to each other. MPCA, Body, and/or Connector
Relationships
[0083] This section concentrates on certain aspects of the
relationships between the MPCA 100, the body portion 200, and/or
the connector housing 310 and interconnecting intermediate layer(s)
500 therein. The intermediate layer may be disposed in the panel or
in the body portion adapted to allow controlled elastic deformation
of the photovoltaic device 10 over a temperature range (typically
near to or just below the outer surface of the body portion 200).
Typically, the temperature range is from about -40.degree. C. to
90.degree. C. It is believed that this deformation is due in large
part to the CLTE differences between the body portion 200 (and the
connector, when present) and the MPCA 100. In other words, the
intermediate layer provides a mechanism for dissipating and/or
directing stresses caused by the CLTE differences. It is also
contemplated that the smaller the CLTE differences between the
respective components, the smaller (e.g. dimensionally) or fewer
areas where the intermediate layer (s) 500 may be required. For
example, when the CLTE differences between the respective
components are greater than 5 percent, it is believed that at least
one area of intermediate layering is required.
[0084] This section also concentrates on certain aspects of the
relationships between the MPCA 100, the body portion 200, and/or
the connector housing 310 and interconnecting structural member(s)
1500 therein. The interconnecting structural member disposed in the
panel or in the body portion adapted to allow controlled elastic
deformation of the photovoltaic device 10 over a temperature range
(typically near to or just below the outer surface of the body
portion 200). Typically, the temperature range is from about
-40.degree. C. to 90.degree. C. It is believed that this
deformation is due in large part to the CLTE differences between
the body portion 200 (and the connector, when present) and the MPCA
100. In other words, the interconnecting structural member provides
a mechanism for dissipating and/or directing stresses caused by the
CLTE differences.
[0085] This section concentrates on certain aspects of the
relationships between the MPCA 100, MPCA subassembly 101 and the
body portion 200. Several illustrative examples and preferred
embodiments are detailed herein. One skilled in the art should
realize that these examples should not be limiting and the present
invention contemplates other potential configurations.
[0086] It is believed that it may be desirous to control the
overall shape of the PV device 10, particularly to control the cant
(or cupping) of the body portion 200 along its width W.sub.BP.
Cupping or cant may be an important consideration when one PV
device 10 is laid on (or installed over) another PV device 10 on a
surface (e.g. a build structure 451), as illustrated in FIGS. 21,
24 and 25.
[0087] FIG. 25 is an illustrative example of a PV device 10 that is
not cupped and would not be desirous. FIG. 24 shows a PV device 10
that is cupped in a desirable fashion. The amount of cupping 454
(e.g. distance from the plane of the next lower structure 451 or
another PV device 10 cupping value) preferably ranges from about
3.0 mm to about 30 mm, more preferably from about 5.0 mm to 25.0
mm, and most preferably from about 7.0 mm to 15 mm.
[0088] It is believed that to effectuate manufacturing a PV device
10 that meets the some or all of the needs discussed above,
additional design considerations may be necessary. The present
invention contemplates that given the material and geometric
relationships discussed in the previous section, it may be
beneficial to include a bending region 210. Of particular note is
that as the percent difference in the subassembly CLTE to that of
the body portion material increase, the need for the bending region
increase. These ratios and their influence on component stresses
are significant in isolation of stress loadings. It may be
advantageous to locate these regions in such a way that
manufacturing and installation loadings do not combine with
stresses due to thermal loadings and the relative CLTE's of the
materials. This may also occur at a critical region of the device
that includes critical electrical components (connector, bus bars,
etc.) that influence the part to disadvantaged thicknesses and
lengths. Examples of the location and/or the configuration of the
bending region 210 are presented below. It is contemplated that any
or all combinations of aspects from each example may be combined if
so desired.
[0089] It is preferred that this bending region be located very
near (e.g. within about 25.0 mm) the fastening location (or
fastening zone 450) of the device 10, such that when it is fastened
(e.g. with mechanical fasteners such as nails 452, screws or the
like) to the mounting surface (e.g. building structure 451) that
the uppermost and lowermost edges are in full contact with the
mounting surface or the other devices. It is believed that this
maybe important for many aspects of a roofing device and a
photovoltaic device. Examples include water sealability, resistance
to wind loading, stability in wind and vibration, and maintaining a
uniform position on the mounting surface through environmental and
servicing situations. It is therefore very desirous to have a
bending region such that edges are properly pre-loaded to meet
these needs. Without the bending region, excessive force may be
needed to fasten the device to the mounting structure. Alternately,
if the part has insufficient bending resistance or improper bend
(or cant), sufficient edge contact cannot be maintained.
[0090] In the case where at least one connector 300 is present in
the device 10, the relationship of material properties between of
the connector housing 310 and the rest of the respective components
are contemplated. In one preferred embodiment, the layer elastic
(tensile or Young's) modulus may be at least about equivalent to,
more preferably less than and most preferably about 5 percent less
than the frame (body portion) elastic (tensile or Young's) modulus,
a connector elastic (tensile or Young's) modulus, or both. It is
also contemplated in another preferred embodiment that the layer
elastic (tensile or Young's) modulus value can be between the frame
(body portion) elastic (tensile or Young's) modulus value and the
cell elastic (tensile or Young's) modulus value. In yet another
preferred embodiment, the layer coefficient of thermal expansion
value is at least equivalent to, more preferably higher than and
most preferably about 10 percent higher than the frame (body
portion) coefficient of thermal expansion value and the connector
coefficient of thermal expansion value. In yet another preferred
embodiment, the layer ultimate elongation value at least about 50
percent more than, more preferably about 80 percent, and most
preferably about 100 percent more than the body portion ultimate
elongation value, the connector ultimate elongation value, or
both.
[0091] It is contemplated that the layer material adheres to the
various components that it comes into contact with, with a
preferred minimum adhesion value of at least about 0.5
joules/m.sup.2, more preferably about 1 joules/m.sup.2, and most
preferably about 2 joules/m2 as adhered to the three-dimensional
multi-layered photovoltaic cell assembly, the body portion or the
connector housing. It is also contemplated that it may be desirous
that the layer material have a greater adhesion (e.g. 5 percent or
greater) to one component versus another component. For example, it
may be preferred that the material of the intermediate layer
adheres to the connector housing more than to the frame (body
portion) assembly and/or adheres to the photovoltaic cell assembly
more than to the frame (body portion) assembly. It is contemplated
that that adhesion to the components, other than the frame assembly
(body portion) may be preferred due to the importance of having a
lower water vapor penetration to the electrical components in the
device 10.
[0092] It is also contemplated that the smaller the CLTE
differences between the respective components, the smaller (e.g.
dimensionally) or fewer numbers of interconnecting structural
member(s) 1500 may be required. For example, when the CLTE
differences between the respective components is greater than 5
percent, it is believed that at least one interconnecting
structural member and/or at least one relieving feature is
required.
[0093] It is contemplated that the structural member 1500 may be
directly mechanically interlocked (for example as shown in FIG. 9B)
into the device 10, may be interlocked via an adhesive system, or a
combination thereof. In the case of an adhesive system, the
adhesive chosen should have characteristics such as having a
tensile yield strength greater than a tensile yield strength of the
connector 300 and a tensile yield strength of the body 200. Other
desired characteristics may include an adhesive system, the
adhesive chosen to have an adhesion strength no less than the
stress due to thermal expansion. It is contemplated that the joint
between the components, where the adhesive is disposed, should be
at least a single or double lap joint, or any such joint that is
designed to minimize interfacial stresses.
[0094] Several illustrative examples and preferred embodiments are
detailed herein. One skilled in the art should realize that these
examples should not be limiting and the present invention
contemplates other potential configurations.
[0095] In a first example of an intermediate layer 500, as shown in
FIGS. 4A-B, the intermediate layer 500 is disposed between the
outer surface 204 of the body portion 200 and MPCA 100 and extends
around the connector 300 and to the edge of the barrier layer 122.
Preferably the layer 500 has a thickness I.sub.t of at least in the
immediate vicinity (e.g. within about 5.0 mm) of the connector 300
and the layer 122 of at least about 50 percent of their respective
thicknesses (C.sub.t, B.sub.t).
[0096] In a second example, as shown in FIGS. 5A-B, a first
intermediate layer portion 500 is disposed between the outer
surface 204 of the body portion 200 and MPCA 100 about the upper
edge of the layer 122. A second and third intermediate layer
portion 500 extends around the connector 300. Preferably the layer
500 has a thickness I.sub.t of at least in the immediate vicinity
(e.g. within about 5.0 mm) of the connector 300 and the layer 122
of at least about 50 percent of their respective thicknesses
(C.sub.t, B.sub.t).
[0097] In a third example, as shown in FIGS. 6A-C, a first
intermediate layer portion 500 is disposed between the body portion
200 and MPCA 100 about the upper edge of the layer 122 and is
coextensive with the body upper surface portion 204. In 6B, the
layer portion 500 is shown as being formed from encapsulant layer
124. In 6C, layer 500 is a separate component and/or material from
that of layer 124. In this example, the device 10 is shown without
the connectors 300; it is contemplated that they may be included if
desired.
[0098] In a fourth example, as shown in FIGS. 7A-C, a first
intermediate layer portion 500 is disposed between the body portion
200 and MPCA 100 and completely separates the two components,
coextensive with the body lower surface portion 202, and body upper
surface portion 204. In 7B, the layer portion 500 is shown as being
formed from encapsulant layer 124 and/or 126. In 7C, layer 500 is a
separate component and/or material from that of layers 124 and/or
126. In this example, the device 10 is shown without the connectors
300; it is contemplated that they may be included if desired.
[0099] In a first illustrative example of a interconnecting
structural member 1500, shown in FIG. 8, the body portion 200 and a
portion of the barrier layer 122 are joined (e.g. are in contact)
along the barrier layer peripheral edge 222. In this example, the
barrier layer is comprised of a glass with physical properties for
the glass, as disclosed in previous sections of the specification.
In this example, the barrier layer peripheral edge 222 has rounded
barrier perimeter corners 420. A set of opposing connector housings
310 are disposed along the outer edge of the body portion 200. Also
included is a singular interconnecting structural member 1500
disposed in the body portion 200.
[0100] In a first preferred embodiment, this interconnecting
structural member 1500 is located at least within a distance
D.sub.R of the barrier layer of the three-dimensional multi-layered
photovoltaic cell assembly along at least about 50 percent
(preferably at least about 70 to 90 percent) of the peripheral edge
222 between the corners 420. Preferably, distance D.sub.R is about
0 to 12.0 mm, more preferably about 0.5 mm to 7.0 mm, and most
preferably about 1.0 to 5.0 mm. In this illustrative example, the
interconnecting structural member 1500 is also disposed along at
least one or more sides of the connector housing 310. Preferably,
disposed within about 0.5 to 5.0 mm of a peripheral edge of the
connector housing, although it is contemplated that it may directly
abut the housing 310 (or the peripheral edge 222).
[0101] In this embodiment, the interconnecting structural member
1500 is comprised of a plate like structure that has a general
thickness M.sub.T of about 1.0 mm to 6.0 mm. It is contemplated
that the thickness may be uniform across the structural member
1500, although it may be advantageous for the thickness to be
greater in the vicinity of the housing 310 and/or the peripheral
edge 222 (e.g. equivalent to or at least about 75 percent the
thickness of the housing 310 and/or the peripheral edge 222
respectively).
[0102] In a second illustrative example, shown in FIGS. 9A-B, the
device 10 is configured similarly to that of the first example,
with the exception of the number of and location of the
interconnecting structural member 1500. In this illustrative
embodiment, there two interconnecting structural members 500. They
are integral to the connector housings 310 and project downward to
the barrier layer 122. The structural member 1500 includes a
locking portion 510 which overlaps the barrier layer on opposing
sides. In this example, it is contemplated that in the area of the
locking region 510, an adhesive may be at least partially disposed
between the structural member 1500 and the barrier layer 122.
Preferably, the locking portion is located on at least two planes
so that lateral forces in any direction will not cause it to become
dislodged.
[0103] In a third illustrative example, shown in FIG. 10, the
interconnecting structural member is mechanically interlocked with
the barrier layer 122 and the connector housing 310. In this
embodiment, the interconnecting structural member has locking
features 520 that are adapted to mate with a barrier locking
feature 123 and a connector locking feature 311. It is contemplated
that this may be a line to line fit, a press fit, or have an
intermediate adhesive layer disposed in-between. It is contemplated
that any number of shapes could be utilized to provide the locking
features 520 and the present example is not intended to be
limiting.
[0104] In a first illustrative example of a relieving feature 2500,
shown in FIG. 12, the body portion 200 and a portion of the barrier
layer 122 are joined (e.g. are in contact) along the barrier layer
peripheral edge 222. In this example, the barrier layer is
comprised of a glass with physical properties for the glass, as
disclosed in previous sections of the specification. In this
example, the barrier layer peripheral edge 222 has rounded barrier
perimeter corners 420. A set of opposing connector housings 310 are
disposed along the outer edge of the body portion 200. Also
included is a singular relieving feature 2500 disposed in the body
portion 200.
[0105] In a first preferred embodiment, this relieving feature 2500
is located at least within a distance D.sub.R of the barrier layer
of the three-dimensional multi-layered photovoltaic cell assembly
along at least about 50 percent (preferably at least about 70 to 90
percent) of the peripheral edge 222 between the corners 420.
Preferably, distance D.sub.R is about 10.0 to 30.0 mm, more
preferably about 12.5 mm to 25.0 mm, and most preferably about 15.0
to 20.0 mm. In this illustrative example, the relieving feature
2500 is also disposed above the connector housing 310. Preferably,
disposed within about 5.0 to 15.0 mm of a top peripheral edge of
the connector housing, although it is contemplated that it may
directly abut the housing 310.
[0106] In this embodiment, the relieving feature is comprised of a
localized thinning of the body portion 200. Preferably, the
localized thinning has a depth of at least 50 percent that of a
depth of the body portion 200 and constitutes a channel 510 with a
profile C.sub.P and a width C.sub.W. In a preferred embodiment, the
width C.sub.W is at least about 1.0 mm and as much as about 15.0
mm, more preferably about 2.5 mm to 12.5 mm, and most preferably
about 3.5 to 8.0 mm. It is contemplated that both the location of
the relieving feature 2500 and its width C.sub.W can be optimized.
Examples shown in FIGS. 11A-F are illustrative and should not be
considered as limiting.
[0107] In a second illustrative example, shown in FIG. 13, the
device 10 is configured similarly to that of the first example,
with the exception of the number of and location of the relieving
feature 2500. In this illustrative embodiment, there are four
relieving features 2500. They are disposed in the body portion 200
and span from the inside corners 430, 432 of the connector housings
towards the barrier layer 122. In this embodiment, it is preferred
that the features 2500 that abut the lower inside corners of the
connector housings 310 are directed towards the rounded barrier
perimeter corners 420 (somewhere in the curved arc). It is also
preferred that the features 2500 that abut the upper inside corners
of the connector housings 310 are directed towards the center of
the device 10. More preferably at an angle a that has a value
between about 15 an 65 degrees, even more preferably between about
30 and 45 degrees. The distal end of the feature (opposite the
connector housing 310) is preferably about 10.0 to 30.0 mm from the
peripheral edge 222, more preferably about 12.5 mm to 25.0 mm, and
most preferably about 15.0 to 20.0 mm.
[0108] In a third illustrative example, shown in FIG. 14, the
relieving feature is disposed in the barrier layer 122. In this
embodiment, the relieving feature has a depth that is at least
equivalent to the thickness of the barrier layer 122 and spans
across at least 25% of the width W.sub.BL (preferably across about
100%). It is also preferable that the channel have a profile
similar to that as shown in FIG. 11E. In this embodiment, it is
preferable that at least the bottom of the relieving feature
channel is filled with an elastomeric barrier material to provide
at least some environmental barrier protection (a low modulus, high
adhesion and high elongation material). For example, materials such
as butyl rubber, ionomers, silicone rubber, polyurethane
elastomers, polyolefin elastomers can serve this purpose. The use
of such a filler is also contemplated for any of the other
embodiments or examples.
[0109] In a fourth illustrative example, shown in FIG. 15, the
device 10 is configured similarly to that of the first example,
with the exception of the number of and location of the relieving
feature 2500. In this illustrative embodiment, there are six
relieving features 2500. They are disposed in the body portion 200
and are channels that run normal to the peripheral edge 222, from
the peripheral edge 222 to a point near the top of the connector
housing 310. They may be spaced apart about equally across the
device 10, but other spacing locations are contemplated.
[0110] In a fifth illustrative example, shown in FIG. 16, the
device 10 is configured similarly to that of the first example,
again with the exception of the number of and location of the
relieving feature 2500. In this illustrative embodiment, there are
two relieving features 2500. They are disposed in the body portion
200 and are channels that extend from the peripheral edge 222
(preferably in the rounded barrier perimeter corners 420) to a
lower outside corner of the connector housing 310 (preferably at
the outside periphery of the device 10).
[0111] In a first illustrative example of unique individual
component geometry, shown in FIGS. 17, 18 and 19, the body portion
200 and a portion of the barrier layer 122 are joined (e.g. are in
contact) along a segment 400 of the barrier layer peripheral edge
222 (a segment 400 of the perimeter of the barrier's edge). This
area where the two parts come together may be known as the
interface region 410. It is contemplated that this interface may
span across the entire barrier profile 230 or only a portion
thereof or onto a portion of the barrier lower surface portion 224,
the barrier upper surface portion 226, or both. In this example,
the barrier layer is comprised of a glass with physical properties
for the glass, as disclose in previous sections of the
specification. In this example, the barrier layer peripheral edge
222 has rounded barrier perimeter corners 420 within the segment
400. It is contemplated that the LBS may be equivalent to the
L.sub.BP and that barrier layer peripheral edge 222 need not have
rounded barrier perimeter corners 420 within the segment 400.
[0112] In a first preferred embodiment, these rounded corners 420
are located at least in the area of the segment 400 that faces the
largest portion of the body portion 200, which can be clearly seen
in the figures. Preferably, the rounded barrier perimeter corners
420 have a radius 422 of about 2.0 to 50.0 mm, more preferably
about 12.5 mm to 30.0 mm, and most preferably about 17.0 to 27.0
mm.
[0113] In a second preferred embodiment, the radius 422 of the
rounded barrier perimeter corners 420 is determined as a ratio of
the L.sub.BL (at least as measured within about 25.0 mm of the
interface region 410) to the L.sub.BP, calculated as
(L.sub.BL/L.sub.BP). Preferably, the ratio is about 0.00345 to
0.0862, more preferably about 0.01000 to 0.0500, and most
preferably about 0.0400 to 0.0450.
[0114] When glass is used (as the barrier layer 122) as in this
example, the compositions of the body material preferably have an
elongation at break of at least 3% but not typically more than 50%.
It is also contemplated, when glass is not used, that the body
material preferably has an elongation at break of at least 100%,
more preferably at least 200%, more preferably still at least 300%
and preferably no more than 500%. The tensile elongation at break
of compositions were determined by test method ASTM D638-08 (2008)
@ 23.degree. C. using a test speed of 50mm/min.
[0115] In a second illustrative example, shown in FIGS. 3 and 20,
the body portion 200 and the barrier layer 122 geometric
relationships are maintained. In this example a connector housing
310 is present. It is contemplated and preferred that the connector
assembly peripheral edge that is closest to the interface region
has at least one rounded connector corner 430 with a radius 432.
Generally, the rounded connector corner 430 may have a radius 432
of about 0.1 mm to 15.0 mm, more preferably about 0.5 mm to 5.0 mm,
and most preferably about 1.0 mm to 4.0 mm. In this example, the at
least one component of the connector assembly (e.g. connector
housing 310) is disposed away from the interface region by a
disposal distance 440 (e.g. closest point therebetween).
[0116] In a first preferred embodiment, a desirous disposal
distance 440 (in mm) can be calculated as a relationship between
various physical properties of some of the component materials.
Preferably, the disposal distance 440 is greater than or equal to
X*(body CLTE/barrier CLTE)+C. In a preferred embodiment, X is a
constant that ranges from about 1.0 to 4.0, more preferably from
about 2.5 to 3.8, and most preferably from about 3.0 to 3.75. In a
preferred embodiment, C is a constant that ranges from about 0.5 to
10.0, more preferably from about 1.0 to 5.0, and most preferably
from about 1.25 to 3.0.
[0117] In a second preferred embodiment, a desirous disposal
distance 440 can be calculated as ratio of the L.sub.BP (at least
as measured within about 25.0 mm of the rounded connector corner
430) to the disposal distance 440 (disposal distance
440/L.sub.BP=ratio). Preferably, the ratio is about 0.02 to 0.1,
more preferably about 0.03 to 0.08, and most preferably about 0.035
to 0.044.
[0118] In a third preferred embodiment, the radius 432 (of the at
least one rounded connector corner 430) is determined as a ratio of
the radius 432 to the L.sub.BP (at least as measured within about
25.0 mm of the rounded barrier perimeter corners 420) (radius
432/L.sub.BP=ratio). Preferably, the ratio is about 0.000172 to
0.0259, more preferably about 0.001000 to 0.015000, and most
preferably about 0.001724 to 0.00517.
[0119] Other relationships contemplated in the present invention
include: The distance between the interface region 410 and the buss
bar region 311 relative to the length (L.sub.BP, particularly
within about 25.0 mm of the region 410) of the body portion 200 can
be expressed as a ratio. Preferably, this ratio ranges from about
0.00348 to 0.0438, more preferably from about 0.01000 to 0.03000,
and most preferably from about 0.01500 to 0.02500. Furthermore, the
relationship of the thickness of the body portion (T) in relation
to the length (L.sub.BP, particularly within about 25.0 mm of the
region 410) is contemplated as a ratio (T/L.sub.BP). Preferably,
this ratio ranges from about 0.0017 to 0.035, more preferably from
about 0.0150 to 0.030, and most preferably from about 0.0100 to
0.0200.
[0120] In a first illustrative example of bending/cant, shown in
FIG. 22, a bending region 210 is created with the PV device 10 by
reducing the body portion 200 thickness (at least locally) and
wherein the MPCA subassembly 101 steps in a direction towards the
top surface of the body portion 200. It is contemplated that this
bending region 210 preferably starts at least about 5.0 mm away
from the interface region and continues to at least about to the
top of the MPCA subassembly 101, although it could continue further
up the body portion 200.
[0121] In a first preferred embodiment, the bending region 210
generally spans across at least about 70% of the length of PV
device 10 in an area that the connector housing 310 is and/or the
area where the buss bar region 311 is located. The body section
200, in the bending region 210, has a thickness ("T.sub.BR") of
about 2.5 mm to 4.0 mm.
[0122] In a second preferred embodiment, a starting point 211 for
the bending region 210 is located a distance (in mm) from the
interface region and is greater than or equal to X'*(body
CLTE/barrier CLTE)+C'. In this preferred embodiment, X' is a
constant that ranges from about 1.0 to 5.0, more preferably from
about 2.5 to 4.8 and most preferably has a value of 3.75. In this
preferred embodiment, C' is a constant that ranges from about 1.0
to 8.0, more preferably from about 2.0 to 6.0 and most preferably
from about 3.0 to 5.0.
[0123] In a third preferred embodiment, the preferred thickness
("T.sub.BR") is related to the ratio of the subassembly CLTE to the
body CLTE (subassembly CLTE/body CLTE). The thickness ("T.sub.BR")
being about 0.3 to 1.9 times this ratio. Preferably, the ratio is
about 1.0 to 5.0, more preferably about 1.5 to 3.5, and most
preferably about 1.8 to 2.1.
[0124] In a second illustrative example, shown in FIG. 23, the
bending region 210 is similar to that of the first example, but the
bending region does not continue to the top of the MPCA subassembly
101. The bending region only extends about 50 to 75% of the way to
the top of the MPCA subassembly 101 (e.g. in the direction of the
width W.sub.BP).
[0125] It is contemplated that the embodiments or examples
described above may not be mutually exclusive and may be used in
combination with each other.
[0126] Unless stated otherwise, dimensions and geometries of the
various structures depicted herein are not intended to be
restrictive of the invention, and other dimensions or geometries
are possible. Plural structural components can be provided by a
single integrated structure. Alternatively, a single integrated
structure might be divided into separate plural components. In
addition, while a feature of the present invention may have been
described in the context of only one of the illustrated
embodiments, such feature may be combined with one or more other
features of other embodiments, for any given application. It will
also be appreciated from the above that the fabrication of the
unique structures herein and the operation thereof also constitute
methods in accordance with the present invention.
[0127] Unless otherwise stated, the coefficient of linear expansion
("CLTE") for the materials and assemblies disclosed herein is
determined on a TA Instruments TMA Model 2940 by test method ASTM
E1824-08 (2008) in a temperature range of -40.degree. C. and
90.degree. C., at 5.degree. C. per minute, using the standard
software provided with the instrument. The skilled artisan will
appreciate that a composition may exhibit temperature ranges where
the CLTE changes from other regions as the material undergoes
thermal transitions. In such a case, the preferred ranges for CLTE
above refer to the largest measured CLTE for the compositions,
assemblies and/or barrier layer 122. A photovoltaic device may
include many different materials, including materials with very
different CLTE. For example, a PV assembly may include solar cells,
metal conductors, polymeric encapsulants, barrier materials such as
glass, or other disparate materials, all with different CLTE's. The
CLTE of a PV assembly may be determined by measuring the dimensions
of the assembly at a number of temperatures between -40.degree. C.
and 90.degree. C. This temperature range is also assumed for all
other physical properties (testing) unless otherwise specified.
[0128] The preferred embodiment of the present invention has been
disclosed. A person of ordinary skill in the art would realize
however, that certain modifications would come within the teachings
of this invention. Therefore, the following claims should be
studied to determine the true scope and content of the
invention.
[0129] Any numerical values recited in the above application
include all values from the lower value to the upper value in
increments of one unit provided that there is a separation of at
least 2 units between any lower value and any higher value. As an
example, if it is stated that the amount of a component or a value
of a process variable such as, for example, temperature, pressure,
time and the like is, for example, from 1 to 90, preferably from 20
to 80, more preferably from 30 to 70, it is intended that values
such as 15 to 85, 22 to 68, 43 to 51, 30 to 32 etc. are expressly
enumerated in this specification. For values which are less than
one, one unit is considered to be 0.0001, 0.001, 0.01 or 0.1 as
appropriate. These are only examples of what is specifically
intended and all possible combinations of numerical values between
the lowest value and the highest value enumerated are to be
considered to be expressly stated in this application in a similar
manner.
[0130] Unless otherwise stated, all ranges include both endpoints
and all numbers between the endpoints. The use of "about" or
"approximately" in connection with a range applies to both ends of
the range. Thus, "about 20 to 30" is intended to cover "about 20 to
about 30", inclusive of at least the specified endpoints.
[0131] The disclosures of all articles and references, including
patent applications and publications, are incorporated by reference
for all purposes.
[0132] The term "consisting essentially of" to describe a
combination shall include the elements, ingredients, components or
steps identified, and such other elements ingredients, components
or steps that do not materially affect the basic and novel
characteristics of the combination.
[0133] The use of the terms "comprising" or "including" describing
combinations of elements, ingredients, components or steps herein
also contemplates embodiments that consist essentially of the
elements, ingredients, components or steps.
[0134] Plural elements, ingredients, components or steps can be
provided by a single integrated element, ingredient, component or
step. Alternatively, a single integrated element, ingredient,
component or step might be divided into separate plural elements,
ingredients, components or steps. The disclosure of "a" or "one" to
describe an element, ingredient, component or step is not intended
to foreclose additional elements, ingredients, components or steps.
All references herein to elements or metals belonging to a certain
Group refer to the Periodic Table of the Elements published and
copyrighted by CRC Press, Inc., 1989. Any reference to the Group or
Groups shall be to the Group or Groups as reflected in this
Periodic Table of the Elements using the IUPAC system for numbering
groups.
* * * * *