Abstract
Free-form solar cells are cells of unconventional shapes (e.g. hexagonal, leaf-shaped etc). Their flexible shape adds to the aesthetics of the surroundings as well as allows to place them over objects where conventional solar cells might not fit. Evidently, these cells need to be efficient as well, and one of the important factors that controls their performance is the front metallization design. In this paper, we present the application of topology optimization (TO) to optimize the front metallization patterns for free-form solar cells. TO distributes the electrode material on the solar cell front surface in an efficient manner, such that the total power output is maximized. To demonstrate the capability of the proposed methodology, we use it to optimize front metal grids for several complex solar cell shapes e.g. circular, hexagonal, leaf-shaped, motorbike fairings, etc. The results presented here demonstrate the capability of TO to generate efficient designs for these free-form shapes.
Highlights
With the rising global population and limited fossil fuel reserves, the availability of sufficient energy sources is increasingly uncertain
We present the application of topology optimization (TO) to design front electrode patterns for free-form solar cells to obtain maximum power output
The front surface of the solar cell is assumed to consist of a transparent conductive oxide (TCO) layer and the metal electrode having thicknesses of 200 nm and 10 mm, respectively
Summary
With the rising global population and limited fossil fuel reserves, the availability of sufficient energy sources is increasingly uncertain. Since a significant part of the generated energy is lost while transporting it from the remote areas where these PV systems are installed, people have started installing solar panels on rooftops and along their window panes. For the installation of solar systems in residential areas, no additional space is needed. These systems are used to generate electricity at the point of use, which leads to lower transmission costs. Solar panels installed on the rooftops must add to the building's aesthetics and blend into its architectural makeup. Since traditional looking houses and commercial buildings hold significantly high monetary value in the real estate market, owners try to ensure that the building's appearance is not adversely affected by these solar panels [3]. Architects are challenged to find the optimum balance between the traditional aesthetics and the energy efficiency
Sign-in/Register to view highlights & summary Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have
Schedule a callDisclaimer: All third-party content on this website/platform is and will remain the property of their respective owners and is provided on "as is" basis without any warranties, express or implied. Use of third-party content does not indicate any affiliation, sponsorship with or endorsement by them. Any references to third-party content is to identify the corresponding services and shall be considered fair use under The CopyrightLaw.
