PAGE CONTENTS
Objectives
The objectives of the de-risking phase performed within this contract are :
- Identification of the critical steps in the manufacturing process
- Development of a core process optimized for automation and low-cost assembly
- Demonstration of the robustness of the process by testing coupons.
- Evaluation of laser grooving to improve the solar cell performance
- Co-engineering with tool supplier to define a preliminary technical solution for the PVA automated manufacturing line.
Challenges
The main challenge is to de-risk the critical process steps (i.e. solar cell bonding and welding) of the PVA assembly with focus on the automatization of the manufacturing.
System Architecture
The new automated production line will include:
- Incoming verification and sorting of Solar Cell Assemblies (SCA)
- Laydown of SCAs on the PVA substrate (“bonding” step)
- Interconnections of SCAs (“welding” step)
- Harnessing and addition of individuals parts
- In-line testing and inspection of the PVA
Plan
This project comprises the de-risking phase of the PVA automated manufacturing project.
Current Status
COMPLETED. With the successful manufacturing and thermal cycling of the two first PVA test coupons.
