Apparatus and method for photovoltaic module with tapered edge seal
US9673344B2 · kind B2 · utility
Assignee
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | Aug 7, 2014 |
| Grant date | Jun 6, 2017 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Dec 12, 2034 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC Y)Emerging Cross-Sectional Technologies
- CPC primaryY02P70/50
- WIPO fieldElectrical machinery, apparatus, energy
- WIPO sectorElectrical engineering
Abstract
A photovoltaic module generates electrical power when installed on a roof. The module is constructed as a laminated sandwich having a transparent protective upper layer adhered to a photovoltaic layer. The photovoltaic layer is adhered to the top of a rigid layer, preferably formed from a fiber reinforced plastic. A tapered edge seal is disposed about the peripheral outer edge of the module, so that water and debris easily run off Preferably, the tapered edge seal is disposed adjacent the photovoltaic layer, and above the rigid substrate layer. The tapered edge seal is thinner at the outer peripheral portion thereof than at a portion thereof adjacent the photovoltaic layer. The laminated module preferably has a layer of double stick tape on the bottom to adhere the module to the surface of a roof.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.