Title:	Methodology and Tool for the Electrical Layout of BIPV-Modules with Novel Design Features
Author(s):	J. Eisenlohr, S. Gasparotto, A. Mondon, L. Schäfer, M. Heinrich, T.E. Kuhn
Topic:	PV Applications and Integration
Subtopic:	PV on/in Buildings, Infrastructure, Landscape, Water and Nature
Event:	36th European Photovoltaic Solar Energy Conference and Exhibition
Session:	6DO.8.5
Pages:	1749 - 1753
ISBN:	3-936338-60-4
Paper DOI:	10.4229/EUPVSEC20192019-6DO.8.5
Price:	0,00 EUR
Document(s):	paper

Abstract/Summary:

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For photovoltaic systems that are integrated into buildings (building-integrated photovoltaics, BIPV), the aesthetical properties are crucial. While PV-modules based on (pseudo-)square crystalline silicon solar cells feature a geometrically regular and usually very technical appearance, architects and designers demand more freedom of design for PV-modules. Simultaneously, the electric efficiency and yield should stay in the focus when developing aesthetically valuable modules. In this work, we present a novel BIPV module design method aiming at high efficiency and innovative design. The novel concept is based on the idea that a PV cell can also consist of several parts that are electrically connected in parallel. These solar cell parts can vary in size and shape and be connected using a wire-based approach. A large variety of geometrical designs is possible and the modules can be aesthetically integrated into the design of a building’s envelope. The electric design of those modules is of course more challenging and we developed a simulation tool that allows for calculating the electric module properties based on an arbitrary design. The design can be given as an image, which is automatically translated via image recognition into a SPICE model. Using SPICE, the relevant electrical output (IV-curve, Jsc, Voc, FF) can be calculated and designs can be optimized electrically.