Process development for automated solar cell and module production. Task 4. Automated array assembly. Quarterly report No. 1
Work has been divided into five phases. The first phase is to modify existing hardware and controlling computer software to: (1) improve cell-to-cell placement accuracy, (2) improve the solder joint while reducing the amount of solder and flux smear on the cell's surface, and (3) reduce the system cycle time to 10 seconds. The second phase involves expanding the existing system's capabilities to be able to reject broken cells and make post-solder electrical tests. Phase 3 involves developing new hardware to allow for the automated encapsulation of solar modules. This involves three discrete pieces of hardware: (1) a vacuum platen end effector for the robot which allows it to pick up the 1' x 4' array of 35 inter-connected cells. With this, it can also pick up the cover glass and completed module, (2) a lamination preparation station which cuts the various encapsulation components from roll storage and positions them for encapsulation, and (3) an automated encapsulation chamber which interfaces with the above two and applies the heat and vacuum to cure the encapsulants. Phase 4 involves the final assembly of the encapsulated array into a framed, edge-sealed module completed for installation. For this we are using MBA's Glass Reinforced Concrete (GRC) in panels such as those developed by MBA for JPL under contract No. 955281. The GRC panel plays the multiple role of edge frame, substrate and mounting structure. An automated method of applying the edge seal will also be developed. The final phase (5) is the fabrication of six 1' x 4' electrically active solar modules using the above developed equipment. Progress is reported. (WHK)
- Research Organization:
- MB Associates, San Ramon, CA (USA)
- DOE Contract Number:
- NAS-7-100-955699
- OSTI ID:
- 6751150
- Report Number(s):
- DOE/JPL/955699-80-01
- Country of Publication:
- United States
- Language:
- English
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Process development for automated solar cell and module production. Task 4. Automated array assembly. Annual report
Process development for automated solar cell and module production. Task 4. Automated array assembly. Quarterly report No. 4
Related Subjects
SOLAR CELL ARRAYS
PRODUCTION
SOLAR CELLS
AUTOMATION
COMPUTERIZED CONTROL SYSTEMS
COVERINGS
ENCAPSULATION
PROCESSING
REINFORCED CONCRETE
RESEARCH PROGRAMS
SOLDERING
BUILDING MATERIALS
CONCRETES
CONTROL SYSTEMS
DIRECT ENERGY CONVERTERS
EQUIPMENT
FABRICATION
JOINING
MATERIALS
PHOTOELECTRIC CELLS
PHOTOVOLTAIC CELLS
REINFORCED MATERIALS
SOLAR EQUIPMENT
WELDING
140501* - Solar Energy Conversion- Photovoltaic Conversion