Development of automated photovoltaic module manufacturing processes

New automated processes and equipment are being developed at Spire Corporation for photovoltaic module, production, under the National Renewable Energy Laboratory's Photovoltaic Manufacturing Technology (PVMaT) project. These processes apply to both crystalline and thin film modules, and address the assembly and testing steps after solar cell lamination. Currently, most module manufacturers use little or no automation for these tasks. The implementation of automated systems is expected to result in labor cost savings, improved product quality, and increased throughput. A reduction in repetitive stress injuries may also be achieved by eliminating product lifting and manual edge trimming tasks. The system designs and automated processes developed in this program are presented.