Systems methods and apparatuses for magnetic processing of solar modules

摘要

Provided herein are methods, apparatuses and systems for fabricating photovoltaic cells and modules. In certain embodiments, the methods, apparatuses and systems involve coating ferromagnetic substrates with thin film solar cell materials and using magnetic force to constrain, move or otherwise manipulate partially fabricated cells or modules. According to various embodiments, the methods, apparatuses and systems provide magnetically actuated handling throughout a photovoltaic cell or module fabrication process, from forming photovoltaic cell layers on a substrate to packaging the module for transport and installation. The magnetically manipulated processing provides advantages over conventional photovoltaic module processing operations, including fewer mechanical components, greater control over placement and tolerances, and ease of handling. As a result, the methods, apparatuses and systems provide highly efficient, low maintenance photovoltaic module fabrication processes.

主权项

1. A thin film photovoltaic cell pallet to support a partially fabricated thin film photovoltaic cell module, said pallet comprising a planar pallet body; a magnetic sheet disposed on said planar pallet body; and a plurality of spaced-apart substantially parallel magnetic elements disposed on said magnetic sheet.