Solar cell with integrated bypass diode and method

摘要

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