Patent ID: 8063301

Claim:
A photovoltaic module comprising: a photovoltaic submodule including a plurality of solar cells interposed between a light-transmitting first member and a second member through the intermediary of an encapsulant, a connecting lead extending from an edge between the light-transmitting first member and the second member for outputting generated electric current; a terminal box disposed at an edge of the photovoltaic submodule and housing a connecting part between the connecting lead and a cable for outputting generated electric current to the outside, the terminal box disposed at an ineffective part of the photovoltaic submodule which does not contribute to power generation; and an outer frame disposed about an outer circumference of the photovoltaic submodule, wherein the outer frame includes a fitting part and a lateral main body, the fitting part receiving and pinching the outer circumference of the photovoltaic submodule, the lateral main body including an opening for receiving the terminal box therein and wherein the connecting lead extends from the edge of the outer circumference of the photovoltaic submodule, is inserted into the fitting part of the outer frame, and is received in the terminal box.