Abstract: Provided are flexible photovoltaic modules having flexible module connectors that allow their connector bodies to move with respect to other parts of the modules in one or more directions. This flexibility may be used to align connector bodies during installation. Further, flexibility may help to overcome the thermal expansion differences of various modules and supporting structure components during operation. Flexible arms may be used to support connector bodies with respect to module sealing sheets to provide the necessary flexibility. Such modules may also include various touch safety features to keep conductive elements of the module connectors disconnected from the photovoltaic cells prior to installation of the module and during initial installation operations. Also provided are flexible photovoltaic assemblies, each including multiple modules electrically interconnected with each other and sealed at their interfaces.

Abstract: Provided are flexible photovoltaic modules having header structures for protecting, reinforcing, and sealing edges formed by sealing sheets of the modules. A flexible module may include one or more header structures. In certain embodiments, two header structures are provided on the same edge or two opposite edges of the module. A header structure may enclose a portion of the edge or the entire edge. A header structure may be a sleeve enclosing an edge formed by two sealing sheets. In other embodiment, in which an edge is formed by only one shorter sealing sheet, a header structure may extend over this edge. A header structure may enclose one or more electrical leads protruding from a sealed space formed by the sealing sheets. These electrical leads may be connected to conductive elements provided within the header structure and used for establishing electrical connections to other components of the photovoltaic array.

Abstract: Provided are flexible photovoltaic modules having flexible module connectors that allow their connector bodies to move with respect to other parts of the modules in one or more directions. This flexibility may be used to align connector bodies during installation. Further, flexibility may help to overcome the thermal expansion differences of various modules and supporting structure components during operation. Flexible arms may be used to support connector bodies with respect to module sealing sheets to provide the necessary flexibility. Such modules may also include various touch safety features to keep conductive elements of the module connectors disconnected from the photovoltaic cells prior to installation of the module and during initial installation operations. Also provided are flexible photovoltaic assemblies, each including multiple modules electrically interconnected with each other and sealed at their interfaces.