Artist Photovoltaic Modules

• Main Author: Shui-Yang Lien
• Format: Article
• Language: English
• Published: MDPI AG 2016-07-01
• Series: Energies
• Subjects: building-integrated photovoltaic (BIPV); full-color; laser process; photovoltaic (PV) module
• Online Access: http://www.mdpi.com/1996-1073/9/7/551

In this paper, a full-color photovoltaic (PV) module, called the artist PV module, is developed by laser processes. A full-color image source is printed on the back of a protective glass using an inkjet printer, and a brightened grayscale mask is used to precisely define regions on the module where colors need to be revealed. Artist PV modules with 1.1 × 1.4 m2 area have high a retaining power output of 139 W and an aesthetic appearance making them more competitive than other building-integrated photovoltaic (BIPV) products. Furthermore, the installation of artist PV modules as curtain walls without metal frames is also demonstrated. This type of installation offers an aesthetic advantage by introducing supporting fittings, originating from the field of glass technology. Hence, this paper is expected to elevate BIPV modules to an art form and generate research interests in developing more functional PV modules.