Solar Panel/Cell Manufacturing

Smiffy: Do you want to get involved in making the cells, or the panels? An interesting burgeoning aspect of the Solar game is the purported 40% and above efficiency ratings that put the usual 17% to shame. See link: http://compoundsemiconductor.net/cws/article/news/27298 http://www.renewableenergyaccess.com/rea/news/story?id=46765 As for a brief understanding of how they work in general and the manufacturing see this: http://science.howstuffworks.com/solar-cell.htm There are about 10 different pages there that explain from a simple level to a more complex chemical level how photons are turned into electrons. If you are interested in machines to help make Solar "Panels" I have seen Laminators, and cell arrangers for alignment. Thoughts? Kosmo

Thanks for your detailed response. The idea is to build the automation modules required to make the panels. Either the rigid type or the thin film flex type. I'm very aware of the wafer fab process having sold 2D/3D wafer inspection equipment. There is a company called Spire Solar already building a turnkey automated line. www.spiresolar.com Do you know of any other companies?

The manufacturing of solar cells combining low price and high performance is the limitation on large scale deployment of solar photovoltaic technology. For an automation company the major openings that aren't sardine cans are in the automated test and assembly of solar panels and, even more ripe, the automated test, layout and assembly of solar arrays. This would perforce involve optimization of area coverage, ease of access and fault diagnostics.

Solar cell technology has a ways to go but is being worked to death by many talented groups. The utility interface is also an issue but tends to be dominated by the power companies and governed by the various laws and regulations surrounding localized two way exchange of energy. Reducing module and array costs (which is about half the total cost) seems the best lever now.

Cactus43 thanks for the response. We are capable of designing and building practically any system whether it be for inspection or for manufacturing purposes. I'm trying to understand the inspection requirements for the wafers or cells, 2D, 3D or both? In addition we are currently looking at the design of a laser edge trimmer for the solar panel assembly line. Any thoughts you may have are appreciated.

I have a question?????

I am thinking of a project that would use Solar Cells and have been looking for

sources... The project will probably require a custom pannel. Low power but a unique

physical configuration.

Got any ideas on good cell sources and/ or fabricators ?????

Pacesetter: Depending on the volume you need, I may be able to point you in the right direction. I work in Shanghai and have worked on a couple project with Chinese and Macao manufacturers. There are some that can do good product, but again, depends on your needs and volumes. For cell sources, many people are suing Suntech, and if not there are th enormal industry stalwarts. Kosmo

Hi Kosmo,

This a early development project for a consumer product. I need detailed specs, and subsequently some cells that I can wire up for a prototype. Then I can spec out the actual solar panel configuration and build several more prototypes for more extensive testing. I will check out the manufacturers you suggested.

Thanks for the lead