Improved method of producing two or more thin-film-based interconnected photovoltaic cells

Abstract

The present invention is premised upon a method of producing two or more thin-film-based interconnected photovoltaic cells comprising the steps of: a) providing a photovoltaic article comprising: a flexible conductive substrate, at least on photoelectrically active layer, a top transparent conducting layer, and a carrier structure disposed above the tap transparent layer; b) forming one or more first channels through the layers of the photovoltaic article; c) applying an insulating layer to the conductive substrate and spanning the one or more first channel; d) removing the carrier structure; e) forming an addition to the one or more first channels through the insulating layer; f) forming one or more second channels off set from the one or mom first channels through the insulating layer to expose a conductive surface of the flexible conductive substrate; g) applying a first electrically conductive material to the conductive surface of the flexible conductive substrate via the one or more; second channels; h) applying an electrically conductive film to the first insulating layer, wherein the film is In electrical communication with the flexible conductive substrate via the first electrically conductive material; J) applying a second electrically conductive material above the top transparent conducting layer and through the one or more first channels, electrically connecting the layers of the photovoltaic article from step b to the electrically conductive film; j) forming one: or more third channels through the electrically conductive film; k) applying a second Insulating layer below the electrically conductive film; l) forming one or mom fourth channels through the layers of the photovoltaic article, thus producing two or more interconnected photovoltaic cells.

Description

technical field [0001] The present invention relates to improved methods of producing two or more thin film-based interconnected photovoltaic cells, and more particularly to the production of two or more Improved methods for thin-film based interconnected photovoltaic cells. Background technique [0002] Attempts to improve the fabrication of photovoltaic devices, especially thin film based interconnected photovoltaic cells, have been the subject of much recent research and development. Of particular interest is the ability to fabricate thin film-based interconnected photovoltaic cells of various shapes and sizes while maintaining efficient production and relatively low capital investment, making the final product more affordable. It has been a goal of the industry to develop these methods and techniques that can help make more affordable end products while still producing a quality product. [0003] In one application, these thin film-based interconnected photovoltaic cel...

AI Technical Summary

Problems solved by technology

The shapes and sizes available for relatively low-cost thin-film-based interconnected photovoltaic cells may limit the design of larger photovoltaic devices and device systems, and thus their possible markets

Images