Solar cell with integrated bypass diode and method

摘要

An integrated solar cell bypass diode assembly (14) is provided by forming at least one recess (32) in the back (non-illuminated) side of the solar cell (16) and placing at least one discrete low-profile bypass diode (18; 56) in respective recesses so that each bypass diode (18; 56) is approximately flush with the back side (34) of the solar cell (16). Each bypass diode (18; 56) is bonded to the solar cell (16) for anti-parallel connection across the solar cell (16). The back side (34) of the solar cell (16) is preferably formed with a honeycomb pattern of recesses (32) to reduce the weight of the solar cell while maintaining mechanical strength. The recesses (32) that receive bypass diodes (18; 56) preferably have a rectangular shape that better accomodates the bypass diode (18; 56).