Solar cell manufacturing apparatus and solar cell manufacturing method

Abstract

A solar cell manufacturing apparatus according to an embodiment of the present invention comprises: a plurality of stages which are arranged in a row and are in contact with each other, and on which solar cells are mounted; a base unit for supporting the plurality of stages and transferring the plurality of stages to the curing zone; a transfer unit for transferring the plurality of stages to a curing zone; a transfer unit for transferring the plurality of stages to a curing zone; and a pin supply unit disposed on one side of the base unit and supplying a pin between predetermined adjacent two stages among the plurality of stages, in which the two stages coupled to the pin supplied by the pin supply unit are spaced apart from each other.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The embodiments of the present invention relate to a solar cell manufacturing apparatus and a solar cell manufacturing method. Background Technology

[0002] Solar cells are formed by placing diodes with pn junctions on a substrate. When sunlight reaches the solar cell, it generates excitons, or electron-hole pairs, which split into electrons and holes. The electrons and holes migrate to the n-layer and p-layer, respectively, thereby generating photovoltaic power across the pn junction. Overlapping refers to the process of electrically connecting multiple solar cells to each other by placing wires on the solar cells to form a single solar cell module.

[0003] Here, the process of joining solar cells and wires includes applying conductive adhesive (ECA) to the surface of the solar cell and joining the wires to the solar cell.

[0004] The process of using conductive adhesives to bond solar cells to wires is a next-generation process for manufacturing solar cells, and various studies have been conducted on its specific implementation. Summary of the Invention

[0005] [Technical Issues]

[0006] The purpose of this invention is to provide a solar cell manufacturing apparatus and a solar cell manufacturing method including a process of joining solar cells and wires using an adhesive.

[0007] The above objectives are provided by way of example, and the invention is not limited thereto.

[0008] [Technical Solutions]

[0009] 1. One aspect of the present invention relates to a solar cell manufacturing apparatus. The solar cell manufacturing apparatus includes: a plurality of platforms arranged in a row and in contact with each other, each platform having a solar cell disposed thereon; a base that supports the plurality of platforms while conveying them to a curing zone; and a pin feeder disposed on one side of the base and supplying pins between two predetermined adjacent platforms of the plurality of platforms, wherein the two platforms coupled to the pins supplied by the pin feeder are spaced apart from each other.

[0010] 2. In embodiment 1, the pin feeder may include: a pin feeder body; and a pin insertion unit disposed in the pin feeder body and inserting at least one pin into one side of the stage.

[0011] 3. In embodiment 2, multiple platforms can form multiple platform modules arranged in a row and in contact with each other. The multiple platform modules can be transported sequentially on the base, and pins can be inserted between two adjacent platform modules.

[0012] 4. In embodiment 3, the pin insertion unit may include: a first pin insertion unit disposed on one side of the pin feeder body and inserting a first pin into one side of the platform; and a second pin insertion unit disposed on the other side of the pin feeder body and inserting a second pin into the other side of the platform, wherein the first pin insertion unit and the second pin insertion unit alternately insert the first pin and the second pin into the plurality of platform modules being transported.

[0013] 5. In embodiment 2, the solar cell manufacturing apparatus may further include a stage feeder that receives a stage into which a pin is to be inserted and places the stage on the stage feeder at a position corresponding to the pin feeder.

[0014] 6. In embodiment 5, the stage feeder may include a clamping contact portion that contacts the pin feeder when the pin is inserted into the stage.

[0015] 7. In embodiment 1, the pin may have a length (L2) ranging from about 10% to about 20% of the length (L1) of the platform.

[0016] 8. In embodiment 1, each stage of the stage has a pin insertion hole formed on its side surface, and a pin can be inserted into the pin insertion hole.

[0017] 9. Another aspect of the present invention relates to a method for manufacturing a solar cell. The method includes the following steps: supplying a stage; supplying wires to the stage; supplying a solar cell and a fixture to the stage on which the wires have been supplied; preheating the solar cell and fixture on the stage; curing the solar cell and fixture on the stage; and removing the solar cell, wherein the step of supplying the stage includes the following steps: inserting a first pin into the stage; and inserting a second pin into the stage.

[0018] 10. In embodiment 9, the steps of inserting the first pin into the stage and inserting the second pin into the stage can be performed alternately.

[0019] 11. In embodiment 9, the step of inserting the first pin into the stage may include: clamping the first pin; inserting the first pin into the first pin insertion hole of the stage; releasing the clamping of the first pin; and displacing the pin feeder in a direction different from the position of the stage.

[0020] The above and other aspects, features and advantages of the invention will become apparent from the detailed description, claims and drawings used in practicing the invention.

[0021] [Beneficial Effects]

[0022] In the solar cell manufacturing apparatus and method according to embodiments of the present invention, pins are supplied between a platform module forming a solar cell module and including multiple platforms, and a second platform module forming another solar cell module and including multiple platforms, to cut the wires connecting the first and second platform modules. This allows a constant distance to be automatically maintained between the platform modules during transport of the multiple platforms for curing the substrate, thereby enabling efficient cutting of the wires between one platform module and another.

[0023] Furthermore, the solar cell manufacturing apparatus and method according to embodiments of the present invention allow for the replacement of pins supplied between one platform module and another platform module, thereby enabling flexible assurance of space between one platform module and another platform module.

[0024] The effects of the present invention are not limited to those described above, and other effects not mentioned in the claims will become apparent to those skilled in the art. Attached Figure Description

[0025] Figure 1 This is an overall conceptual view of a solar cell manufacturing apparatus according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0026] Figure 2 This diagram sequentially illustrates the process of connecting a solar cell and wires according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0027] Figure 3 This is a perspective view of a solar cell manufacturing apparatus according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0028] Figure 4 This is a perspective view of a solar cell manufacturing apparatus including a curing unit according to an embodiment of the present invention, showing a stage placed therein.

[0029] Figure 5 yes Figure 4 Part A1 is the bottom view of the curing unit.

[0030] Figure 6 yes Figure 4 Part A2 is the top view of the base.

[0031] Figure 7 yes Figure 4 A magnified view of part B.

[0032] Figure 8 It is shown Figure 3 A side view of the two platforms of part A and the pin between the two platforms.

[0033] Figure 9 This is a conceptual diagram illustrating a cutting process in the gap G created by the pin according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0034] Figure 10 This is an enlarged perspective view showing a pin feeder according to an embodiment of the present invention, a platform to which the pin feeder supplies pins, and the surrounding structure.

[0035] Figure 11 yes Figure 4 A side view of part B.

[0036] Figure 12 yes Figure 10 Part C is a plan view showing the first pin holder of the first pin insertion unit, which holds the first pin.

[0037] Figure 13 yes Figure 10 Part C is a plan view showing a first pin insertion unit shifter of the first pin insertion unit, which shifts the first pin holder in the direction of setting the stage, and the first pin holder inserts the first pin into the first pin insertion hole of the stage.

[0038] Figure 14 yes Figure 10 Part C is a plan view showing the first pin holder release pin.

[0039] Figure 15 yes Figure 10 A plan view of part C shows the first pin insertion unit shifter shifting the first pin holder in the opposite direction to the stage.

[0040] Figure 16 This is a flowchart illustrating a method for manufacturing a solar cell according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0041] Figure 17 This is a flowchart illustrating the detailed steps in the operation of a pin feeder according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0042] Figure 18 It shows the setting Figure 17 A flowchart detailing the steps of inserting the first pin into the first pin insertion hole of a platform by the first pin insertion unit on one side of the pin feeder body.

[0043] Figure 19 It shows the setting Figure 17A flowchart detailing the steps of inserting a second pin into a second pin insertion hole on a platform using a second pin insertion unit located on one side of the pin feeder body. Detailed Implementation

[0044] This invention can be modified in various ways and can have various embodiments, some of which are shown in the accompanying drawings and described in detail in the following description of the invention. However, it should be understood that the invention is not intended to be limited to any particular embodiment, and the invention includes all modifications, equivalents, or substitutions falling within its scope. Throughout the description of the invention, the same parts will be indicated by the same reference numerals.

[0045] In the following, exemplary embodiments of the present invention will be described in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings, wherein the same or corresponding parts will be indicated by the same reference numerals and repeated descriptions thereof will be omitted.

[0046] In the following implementation, the terms "first," "second," etc., are not intended to be limiting, but are used to distinguish one element from another.

[0047] In the following implementation, unless the context clearly indicates otherwise, the singular forms “a,” “an,” and “the” are also intended to include the plural forms.

[0048] In the following embodiments, the terms “includes,” “including,” “comprises,” and / or “comprising,” when used in this specification, specify the presence of the stated feature or component but do not exclude the presence or addition of one or more other features or components.

[0049] In the accompanying drawings, for clarity, the dimensions of various elements, layers, etc., may be enlarged or reduced. For example, for ease of description, the dimensions and thickness of each element shown in the drawings are arbitrarily illustrated, but the invention is not limited thereto.

[0050] When exemplary embodiments are implemented in different ways, a particular processing order may be performed differently than the order described. For example, two consecutively described processes may be performed substantially simultaneously or in the reverse order of their description.

[0051] The terminology used herein is for the purpose of describing particular embodiments and is not intended to be limiting. Furthermore, the terms “includes,” “including,” “comprises,” and / or “comprising,” when used in this specification, specify the presence of the stated feature, integer, step, operation, element, component, and / or group thereof, but do not exclude the presence or addition of one or more other features, integers, steps, operations, elements, components, and / or groups thereof.

[0052] In the following text, reference will be made to Figures 1 to 9 This describes a solar cell manufacturing apparatus according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0053] Figure 1 This is an overall conceptual view of a solar cell manufacturing apparatus according to one embodiment of the present invention. Figure 2 This diagram sequentially illustrates the process of connecting a solar cell and wires according to an embodiment of the present invention. Figure 3 This is a perspective view of a solar cell manufacturing apparatus according to one embodiment of the present invention. Figure 4 This is a perspective view of a solar cell manufacturing apparatus including a curing unit according to an embodiment of the present invention, showing a stage placed therein. Figure 5 yes Figure 4 Part A1 is the bottom view of the curing unit. Figure 6 yes Figure 4 Part A2 is the top view of the base. Figure 7 yes Figure 4 A magnified view of part B. Figure 8 It is shown Figure 3 A side view of the two platforms of part A and the pin set between the two platforms. Figure 9 This is a conceptual diagram illustrating a cutting process in the gap G created by the pin according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0054] A solar cell manufacturing apparatus is a device used to connect solar cells C and wires w to form a solar cell module. Solar cell C includes a semiconductor junction region having a pn junction surface, and when irradiated with a certain amount of energy or more, solar cell C generates an electromotive force to convert light energy into electrical energy. The semiconductor material included in solar cell C is not limited to specific materials and may include silicon (monocrystalline silicon, polycrystalline silicon, and amorphous silicon), gallium arsenide, cadmium telluride, cadmium sulfide, indium phosphide, copper indium gallium selenide (CIGS), organic dyes, or mixtures thereof.

[0055] The wire w is a conductor used to electrically connect multiple solar cells C to each other, and is configured to connect the front and back sides of adjacent solar cells C to each other. For example, the wire w can be electrically connected to the solar cells C by a curing process. Alternatively, the wire w can be electrically connected to the solar cells C by a conductive adhesive (ECA).

[0056] Reference Figures 1 to 9 According to one embodiment of the present invention, a solar cell manufacturing apparatus includes a plurality of platforms 100 arranged in a row to contact each other, and each platform 100 having a solar cell disposed thereon; a base 10 that supports the plurality of platforms 100 and transports the plurality of platforms 100 to a curing zone; and a pin feeder 200 disposed on one side of the base 10 and supplying pins P between two predetermined adjacent platforms of the plurality of platforms 100, wherein the two platforms 100, 100' coupled to the pins P supplied by the pin feeder 200 are spaced apart from each other by the pins P.

[0057] Reference Figure 1 The curing process can be performed simultaneously with the solar cell C passing through the curing unit 20 and each solar cell C being placed on the stage 100. The solar cell C can be supplied via the battery supply unit 80. The battery supply unit 80 can supply solar cells C with conductive adhesive (ECA) applied.

[0058] Battery feeder 80 can deliver solar cell C with conductive adhesive applied to battery clamp feeder 90. Additionally, referring to battery clamp feeder 90, clamp feeder 70 can be disposed on the opposite side of battery feeder 80 to supply clamp J to battery clamp feeder 90.

[0059] The battery clamp feeder 90 can transport the solar cell C and the clamp J to the upper side of the base 10 via the battery clamp transport unit 91. The battery clamp transport unit 91 can clamp the solar cell C and the clamp J together and can rotate the solar cell C and the clamp J around the rotation axis 91a to place the solar cell C and the clamp J on the upper side of the base 10. Then, the solar cell C and the clamp J disposed on the upper side of the base 10 can be sequentially placed on the stage 100, and the stage 100 can then enter the curing zone Z6 together with the solar cell C and the clamp J disposed thereon to undergo curing treatment.

[0060] A stage supply area Z2 may be provided with a stage feeder 40. The stage feeder 40 can supply the stage 100 to the stage supply area Z2. The solar cell C and the fixture J can be placed on the stage 100 supplied to the stage supply area Z2, and the stage 100, together with the solar cell C and the fixture J placed thereon, can pass through the curing area Z6 to allow the curing process for the solar cell C to be performed.

[0061] On the stage 100, which has passed through the curing zone Z6 and the exit zone Z7 described below, the clamp J can be separated from the stage 100 and the solar cell C and retrieved by the clamp retrieval unit 71. The solar cell C, which is separated from the clamp J and placed on the stage 100, can be separated from the stage 100 and removed by the battery conveying unit 50. The clamp retrieval unit 71 can supply the retrieved clamp to the clamp feeder 70, and the clamp feeder 70 can then resupply the retrieved clamp to the battery clamp feeder 90.

[0062] The battery transport unit 50 may include a cutting unit 51. After the curing process is completed, the solar cell C, which is separated from the stage and the fixture, is transported to the battery transport unit 50. After being cut between one solar cell module and another by the cutting unit 51 provided in the battery transport unit 50, the battery transport unit 50 can unload the solar cell as a solar cell module unit to the outside.

[0063] The stage 100, separated from the fixture J and the solar cell C, can be recovered by the stage recovery unit 40'. The stage recovery unit 40' is connected to the stage feeder 40, and the stage 100 recovered by the stage recovery unit 40' can be transported to the stage feeder 40. The stage feeder 40 can then resupply the transported stage 100 to the stage supply area Z2.

[0064] The platform 100 can be transported from the platform supply area Z2 to the exit area Z7 on the base 10. The platform 100 can also be transported from the platform supply area Z2 to the solar cell placement area Z3. In the solar cell placement area Z3, solar cells C supplied from the battery clamp feeder 90 can be placed on the platform 100 via the battery clamp transport unit 91.

[0065] With the solar cell C mounted on the stage 100, the stage 100 can be transported from the solar cell mounting area Z3 to the fixture fixing area Z4. In the fixture fixing area Z4, once the fixture J is mounted on the stage 100, the solar cell C can be fixed to the stage 100.

[0066] With the solar cell C and the fixture J mounted on the stage 100, the stage 100 can be transported from the fixture fixing area Z4 to the preheating area Z5. In the preheating area Z5, the solar cell C mounted on the stage 100 can be preheated by the first heater H1 provided in the preheating area Z5 before the curing process.

[0067] With the solar cell C and the fixture J mounted on the stage 100, the stage 100 can be transported from the preheating zone Z5 to the curing zone Z6. After entering the curing zone Z6, the solar cell C mounted on the stage 100 can undergo curing treatment.

[0068] After passing through the curing zone Z6, the stage 100, on which the solar cell C and the fixture J are mounted, can be conveyed to the exit zone Z7. In the exit zone Z7, the first heater H1 can be configured to act as a temperature buffer structure to prevent the solar cell C from experiencing sudden temperature changes by slowly reducing the temperature of the solar cell C mounted on the stage 100 as the stage 100 is removed from the high-temperature environment of the curing zone Z6.

[0069] The stage 100 can be conveyed to the stage recovery unit 40' via the exit area Z7. Here, the clamp J can be separated from the stage 100 and the solar cell C and recovered by the clamp recovery unit 71. The clamp recovery unit 71 can be located in the area corresponding to the stage recovery unit 40'. Therefore, the clamp recovery unit 71 can recover the clamp J located on the stage recovery unit 40'. Alternatively, the clamp recovery unit 71 can be placed between the exit area Z7 and the stage recovery unit 40'. Therefore, the clamp recovery unit 71 can recover the clamp J located in the area corresponding to the clamp recovery area.

[0070] Additionally, the solar cell C can be detached from and removed from the platform 100 (from which the clamp J is recovered) via the battery delivery unit 50. Then, the platform 100 can be transferred to the platform feeder 40 via the platform recovery unit 40' and can be resupplyed to the platform supply area Z2.

[0071] The wire feeder 30 can be located on one side of the platform supply area Z2. The wire feeder 30 can extend and transport the wire w to the platform supply area Z2, the solar cell placement area Z3, and the clamp fixing area Z4 via a clamp for securing the wire w. Here, the extended wire w can be guided by a wire groove formed on the platform 100. Therefore, the wire supply area Z1 can be a region including the wire feeder 30, the platform supply area Z2, the solar cell placement area Z3, and the clamp fixing area Z4.

[0072] The wire w can be disposed on both the upper and lower surfaces of the solar cell C. The wire w disposed on the lower surface of the solar cell C can be guided by a wire groove formed on the stage 100. The wire w disposed on the upper surface of the solar cell C can be fixed to the upper surface of the solar cell C by pressing the wire w against the upper surface of the solar cell C via a clamp J. The clamp J can fix the wire w so that it will not lift or deviate from a specific position when connected to the upper surface of the solar cell C.

[0073] The wire feeder 30 may include: a cutter configured to cut the wound wire to a preset first length; and a clamp configured to extend and convey the first length of wire through the stage supply area Z2 and the solar cell placement area Z3 to the clamp fixing area Z4.

[0074] Reference Figure 2 In order to perform the curing process, the stage 100 is supplied to the stage supply area Z2 and the solar cell placement area Z3. Figure 2 (a)), and when the first wire w1 is supplied via the wire feeder 30 ( Figure 2 (b) The battery clamp conveying unit 91 simultaneously places the pair of first solar cells C1 and first clamps J1 on the first conductor w1. Figure 2 (c) Here, the battery clamp conveying unit 91 places the first solar cell C in the solar cell placement area Z3 and places the first clamp J in the clamp fixing area Z4.

[0075] Then, the stage 100, the first wire w1, the first clamp J1, and the first solar cell C1 are conveyed on the base 10 to the curing zone Z6 at a pitch P, and the second wire w is supplied to the conveyed solar cell C. Figure 2 (d)

[0076] Reference Figure 3 The pitch P can be the width P of the stage. Here, the preheating zone can have a width Z5 corresponding to the width P of the stage. Specifically, each of the width Z5 of the preheating zone and the width P of the stage can refer to the width in a direction parallel to the conveying direction of the solar cell C.

[0077] Then, the battery clamp conveying unit 91 simultaneously places the paired second clamps J2 and the second solar cell C2 onto the second conductor w2. Figure 2 (e)).

[0078] Refer again Figure 1 The clamps and solar cells placed on the platform 100 at the platform recovery unit 40' are picked up by the clamp recovery unit 71 and the battery delivery unit 50 respectively to separate them from the platform 100.

[0079] Then, the first wire w1, the first clamp J1, the first solar cell C1, the second wire w2, the second clamp J2, and the second solar cell C2 are conveyed on the base 10 to the curing area Z6 at a pitch P, and the third wire w3 is supplied to the conveyed solar cell C. Figure 2 (f)

[0080] Then, the battery clamp conveying unit 91 simultaneously places the pair of third clamps J3 and third solar cells C3 onto the third conductor w3. Figure 2 (g)). See again. Figure 1 The clamps and solar cells placed on the platform 100 at the platform recovery unit 40' are picked up by the clamp recovery unit 71 and the battery delivery unit 50 respectively and separated from the platform 100.

[0081] In the above sequence, the wire w and the clamp J are placed on the solar cell C on the stage 100, and the curing process can be carried out in the curing zone Z6, wherein the wire w is bonded to the upper and lower surfaces of the solar cell C.

[0082] The stage 100 can transport the solar cell C and the wires w disposed on the solar cell C to the curing zone Z6. The stage 100 can enter the curing zone Z6 via tracks L formed on opposite sides of the base 10, and can also leave the curing zone Z6 via tracks L. (See reference...) Figure 3 Multiple stages 100 can be continuously supplied to the curing zone Z6 in a connected state.

[0083] Multiple platforms 100 can each be equipped with multiple solar cells C, each solar cell C having a wire w on it. For example... Figure 2 As shown, a wire disposed on the upper surface of a solar cell C can extend to be disposed on the lower surface of another solar cell C connected to the first solar cell C. Conversely, a wire disposed on the lower surface of a solar cell C can extend to be disposed on the upper surface of another solar cell C connected to the first solar cell C. Here, both the upper and lower surfaces of a solar cell C can have wires disposed thereon.

[0084] The base 10 of the transport stage 100 is formed in an elongated shape, so that the stage 100 can move into the curing area Z6 on the base 10. A guide G is formed at the lower end of the stage 100, which is connected to the track L formed on the base 10 and allows the stage 100 to move along the track L.

[0085] Two guide rods SH can be formed parallel to the tracks L formed on opposite sides of the base 10. When the platform 100 is transported along the track L, the platform 100 can be transported with its lower end in contact with the guide rods SH.

[0086] Each track in track L extends from one end of base 10 to the other end of base 10 along its length. On the other hand, guide rod SH extends through preheating zone Z5, curing zone Z6 and outlet zone Z7.

[0087] According to this embodiment, the manufacturing apparatus may further include a first heater H1 disposed between two guide rods SH on the upper surface of the base 10. In this embodiment, the first heater H1 is composed of three heaters and has a tubular structure extending in a longitudinal direction parallel to the guide rods SH. However, it should be understood that the number and shape of the first heater H1 are not limited thereto.

[0088] The first heater H1 can have a length corresponding to that of the guide rod SH. Therefore, like the guide rod SH, the first heater H1 extends through the preheating zone Z5, the curing zone Z6, and the outlet zone Z7. In this structure, preheating of the solar cell C can be performed in the preheating zone Z5, curing of the solar cell C can be performed in the curing zone Z6, and a process to reduce the temperature difference between the curing zone Z6 and the outside can be performed in the outlet zone Z7.

[0089] According to this embodiment, the first heater H1 can be a cartridge heater.

[0090] The stage 100, on which the solar cell C is mounted, can pass over the first heater H1. As the stage 100 passes over the first heater H1, the first heater H1 can perform a curing process on the solar cell C mounted on the stage 100.

[0091] The curing unit 20 is disposed above the base 10. The curing unit 20 is formed as a box shape with an opening at its lower surface. The curing unit 20 may be formed as an elongated shape in the length direction of the base 10 to cover the central portion of the base 10.

[0092] The curing unit 20 can be configured to cover the curing area Z6 of the base 10. However, in the event of a malfunction or maintenance of the curing unit 20, the curing unit 20 can be opened to allow maintenance work to be performed on its interior.

[0093] Multiple solar cells C disposed within the curing unit 20 can be cured within the curing unit 20, wherein each solar cell C is mounted on a corresponding stage 100, and the curing unit 20 is coupled to the central portion of the base 10. The curing unit 20 can be configured to accommodate as many stages 100 on which solar cells C are mounted as possible, so as to maximize the number of solar cells C to be cured.

[0094] Reference Figure 5 The curing unit 20 may have a plurality of second heaters H2 disposed on its inner top 21. According to this embodiment, the second heaters H2 consist of four heaters and have a tube structure extending in a length direction parallel to the length direction of the curing unit 20. However, it should be understood that the number and shape of the second heaters H2 are not limited thereto.

[0095] According to this embodiment, the second heater H2 can be an infrared (IR) heater.

[0096] Reference Figure 3 and Figure 4 The base may also include an exit zone Z7, on which the stage 100, on which the solar cell C is mounted, is conveyed from the curing zone Z6 to the exit zone Z7. Here, a first heater H1 can be disposed in the curing zone Z6, the preheating zone Z5, and the exit zone Z7. That is, the first heater H1 can extend beyond both ends of the second heater H2. After the curing process, the solar cell C conveyed from the curing unit 20 can undergo post-heating by the first heater H1 in the exit zone Z7. In other words, the first heater H1 can be disposed in the exit zone Z7 so that when the stage 100 is conveyed from the high-temperature environment within the curing zone Z6 to the outside of the curing zone Z6, the solar cell C mounted on the stage 100 will not experience a sudden temperature change. The first heater H1 disposed in the exit zone Z7 can act as a temperature buffer to slowly reduce the temperature of the solar cell C mounted on the stage 100. This further improves the quality of the cured solar cell.

[0097] According to this embodiment, multiple platforms 100 form platform modules M1 and M2 arranged in a row and in contact with each other, and the platform modules M1 and M2 are sequentially transported on the base 10. Here, a pin P is inserted between two adjacent platform modules M1 and M2. Here, a single solar cell module can be formed on one platform module.

[0098] Reference Figure 3 Although only two platform modules M1 and M2 are shown in this embodiment, it should be understood that multiple platform modules can be continuously supplied to the base 10 as platforms are supplied.

[0099] Multiple solar cells C on a platform module that has undergone curing are interconnected via wires w. These multiple solar cells C connected by wires w can form a solar cell module.

[0100] According to this embodiment, regardless of the module, the wire w can be continuously supplied to multiple platforms 100 that are continuously supplied to the base, and each solar cell module can be divided by a cutting operation. Here, compared to the process of supplying individual wires to each solar cell module, by adopting the process of supplying the entire wire and then cutting the wire instead of supplying individual wires to each solar cell module, the production cycle can be reduced while improving manufacturing efficiency.

[0101] In summary, in order to form each solar cell module from multiple platforms 100 supplied sequentially to the base, it is necessary to cut the portions of the wires connecting the solar cell modules to each other so that each solar cell module can be separated.

[0102] According to this embodiment, a solar cell manufacturing apparatus may include a pin feeder 200 configured to supply pins between two predetermined adjacent platforms of a plurality of platforms 100, wherein the two platforms 100 coupled to each other by means of pins P supplied from the pin feeder 200 may be spaced apart from each other.

[0103] Here, the wires w connecting the two spaced-apart platforms can be easily cut by the cutting unit 51 using the gap G formed between the two platforms.

[0104] According to this embodiment, a pin P of predetermined length is installed between two platforms 100, 100', thereby allowing the operator to ensure the desired gap G between the platforms when cutting the wire. Therefore, by simply replacing the pin P of predetermined length in the pin feeder, the operator can effectively ensure the gap G between the two platforms 100, 100' based on possible conditions during the cutting operation (e.g., the position of the cutting unit, the cutting space, etc.).

[0105] Reference Figure 9 According to this embodiment, the battery transport unit 50 may be equipped with a cutting unit 51. That is, after the curing process is completed, the solar cell C, separated from the stage and fixture, is transported to the battery transport unit 50, and the battery transport unit 50 can then cut the wires between two adjacent solar cell modules using the cutting unit 51. Through this operation, the solar cell can be divided into solar cell modules, so that the solar cell modules can be individually transported to the outside on the base 10.

[0106] For example, such as Figure 8As shown, the length L2 of the pin can be in the range of approximately 10% to approximately 20% of the stage length L1. For example, the pin length L2 can be 10%, 11%, 12%, 13%, 14%, 15%, 16%, 17%, 18%, 19%, or 20% of the stage length L1. When the pin length L2 is less than 10% of the stage length L1, it is difficult to ensure sufficient space for the cutting operation. If the pin length L2 is greater than 20% of the stage length L1, the number of solar cells C supplied per unit area of ​​the curing zone Z1 will be reduced, resulting in an increase in the manufacturing cycle time of the solar cell module.

[0107] Furthermore, since multiple platforms 100 are transported with pin P inserted between two platforms 100, 100' during the transport process, the process of transporting multiple platforms 100 for curing can be performed while ensuring the gap between each platform module, thereby making it easier to perform subsequent processing for each solar cell module after the curing process.

[0108] Furthermore, since the gap G between the two platforms 100 and 100' with pin P remains constant during the process of conveying multiple platforms 100, the wire cutting operation can be performed regardless of the conveying position of the multiple platforms, compared to the case where the conveying position or conveying speed of the platforms is adjusted to form the gap between the platforms.

[0109] Furthermore, since the width between multiple platforms and the gap G between platform modules are calculated, the manufacturing cycle time of the solar cell module can be predicted. Moreover, by adjusting the length of pin P, the process can be performed by setting the optimal gap G during the cutting operation, thereby reducing the manufacturing cycle time.

[0110] According to this embodiment, the pin feeder 200 may include a pin feeder body 200a and pin insertion units 210 and 220. The pin insertion units 210 and 220 are disposed on one side of the pin feeder body 200a and configured to insert at least one pin P into one side of the stage 100. The pin insertion units 210 and 220 may include: a first pin insertion unit 210, which is disposed on one side of the pin feeder body 200a and configured to insert a pin P into one side of the stage 100; and a second pin insertion unit 220, which is disposed on the other side of the pin feeder body 200a and configured to insert a pin P into the other side of the stage 100.

[0111] Here, pin P is inserted between two adjacent platform modules 100, 100', and the first pin insertion unit 210 and the second pin insertion unit 220 can alternately insert pins between the multiple platform modules being transported on the base. In other words, when each of the platform modules consisting of multiple platforms is supplied to the base 10, the first pin insertion unit 210 and the second pin insertion unit 220 of the pin supplier 200 can alternately insert the first pin P1 and the second pin P2 between the multiple platform modules being transported on the base.

[0112] Next, refer to Figures 10 to 15 The solar cell manufacturing apparatus according to embodiments of the present invention will be described in more detail. Figures 10 to 15 For components not shown, refer to Figures 1 to 9 The components shown and their descriptions are as follows.

[0113] Figure 10 This is an enlarged perspective view showing a pin feeder, a platform for supplying pins to the pin feeder, and a surrounding structure according to an embodiment of the present invention. Figure 11 yes Figure 4 A side view of part B. Figure 12 yes Figure 10 Part C is a plan view showing the first pin holder of the first pin insertion unit, which holds the first pin. Figure 13 yes Figure 10 Part C is a plan view showing a first pin insertion unit shifter of the first pin insertion unit, which shifts the first pin holder in the direction of setting the stage, and the first pin holder inserts the first pin into the first pin insertion hole of the stage. Figure 14 yes Figure 10 Part C is a plan view showing the first pin holder release pin. Figure 15 yes Figure 10 A plan view of part C shows the first pin insertion unit shifter shifting the first pin holder in the opposite direction to the stage.

[0114] Reference Figures 10 to 15 In the solar cell manufacturing apparatus according to an embodiment of the present invention, a stage has a first pin insertion hole 100a and a second pin insertion hole 100b formed on its side surface, and a first pin P1 and a second pin P2 can be inserted into the first pin insertion hole 100a and the second pin insertion hole 100b, respectively.

[0115] For example, the first pin insertion unit 210 can supply the first pin P1 to the first pin insertion hole 100a of the platform 100 located between the first supply platform module and the second supply platform module. Additionally, the second pin insertion unit 220 can supply the second pin P2 to the second pin insertion hole 100b of the platform 100 located between the first supply platform module and the second supply platform module.

[0116] When the first pin insertion unit 210 supplies a pin to a certain stage 100, the second pin insertion unit 220 can receive a new pin and prepare to supply the received new pin to the next stage 100. In addition, when the second pin insertion unit 220 supplies a pin to the next stage 100, the first pin insertion unit 210 can receive a new pin and prepare to supply the received new pin to the third stage 100.

[0117] According to this embodiment, the first pin insertion unit 210 includes: a first pin insertion unit body 213; a first pin insertion unit shifter 211, which shifts the first pin insertion unit body 213 relative to the pin feeder body 200a while advancing toward the stage 100; a first pin insertion unit connector 212, which connects the first pin insertion unit body 213 to the first pin insertion unit shifter 211; and first pin holders 214 and 215, which are mounted on the first pin insertion unit body 213 to hold the first pin P1.

[0118] The second pin insertion unit 220 further includes: a second pin insertion unit body 223; a second pin insertion unit shifter 221 that shifts the second pin insertion unit body 223 relative to the pin feeder body 200a while advancing toward the stage 100; a second pin insertion unit connector 222 that connects the second pin insertion unit body 223 to the second pin insertion unit shifter 221; and second pin holders 224 and 225 that are mounted on the second pin insertion unit body 223 to hold the second pin P2.

[0119] According to this embodiment, the first pin holders 214 and 215 can detachably attach the first pin P1 to the stage 100, and the second pin holders 224 and 225 can detachably attach the second pin P2 to the stage 100. That is, the first pin holders 214 and 215 can attach the first pin P1 to the stage 100, or remove the first pin P1 from the first pin insertion hole 100a of the stage 100. Similarly, the second pin holders 224 and 225 can attach the second pin P2 to the stage, or remove the second pin P2 from the second pin insertion hole 100b of the supply stage 100. This is because the multiple continuously supplied stages 100 can be classified into stages for supplying pin P and stages for not supplying pin P, as described below.

[0120] Here, the pins P1 and P2 held by the first pin holders 214 and 215 and the second pin holders 224 and 225 can be replaced by pins of different lengths as needed.

[0121] The pin feeder 200 may have a platform feeder 40 provided on one side, and the platform 100 configured to receive the pin P may be placed in the platform feeder 40. The pin feeder 200 may be provided on one side of the platform 100 placed on the platform feeder 40, and the base 10 may be provided on the other side facing the platform 100.

[0122] Platform feeder 40 is coupled to elevator E. Platform feeder 40 and platform 100 mounted on platform feeder 40 can be lifted by elevator E. Pin feeder 200 can be provided on the side where platform feeder 40 and platform 100 are lifted upwards, and base 10 can be provided on the other side facing platform 40.

[0123] Therefore, pin P is inserted into a pin insertion hole formed on one side surface of the platform 100 by a pin feeder 200 provided on one side of the platform 100, and the platform 100 with pin P inserted can be conveyed to the base 10 provided on the other side of the platform 100.

[0124] The pin feeder 200 may not supply pins P to the platform 100. That is, the platform feeder 40 and the platform 100, which are lifted by the elevator E, can be directly transported to the base 10 without the pins being supplied by the pin feeder 200.

[0125] For example, when the platform 100 being transported to the base 10 is a platform 100' located at the end opposite to the transport direction X of a plurality of platforms arranged in a row and constituting the platform module M1, pin P can be supplied to the corresponding platform.

[0126] In addition, when the platform 100 conveyed to the base 10 is one of the other platforms among a plurality of platforms except for the platform 100' located at the end opposite to the conveying direction X, the pin P may not be conveyed to the corresponding platform.

[0127] The controller can determine whether the raised platform 100 is a platform that needs to be supplied with pins P in sequence or a platform that does not need to be supplied with pins P, and can send a signal to the pin feeder 200 regarding whether pins P should be supplied to the corresponding platform.

[0128] According to this embodiment, the stage feeder 40 may include clamping contact portions B1 and B2 that contact the pin feeder 200 when the pin P is inserted into the stage 100.

[0129] Specifically, the stage feeder 40 may include: a first clamp contact portion B1, which contacts the first pin clamps 214 and 215 when the first pin P1 is inserted into the stage; and a second clamp contact portion B2, which contacts the second pin clamps 224 and 225 when the second pin P2 is inserted into the stage.

[0130] The first clamping contact portion B1 and the second clamping contact portion B2 can be used as stops, which set the distance that the first pin clamps 214, 215 and the second pin clamps 224, 225 advance for pin insertion. Therefore, when the first pin clamps 214, 215 and the second pin clamps 224, 225 are moved toward the stage 100 by the first pin insertion unit shifter 211 and the second pin insertion unit shifter 221, the first pin clamps 214, 215 and the second pin clamps 224, 225 contact the first clamping contact portion B1 and the second clamping contact portion B2 respectively, and the first pin insertion unit shifter 211 and the second pin insertion unit shifter 221 stop the movement of the first pin clamps 214, 215 and the second pin clamps 224, 225. Thus, the first pin P1 and the second pin P2 fed by the first pin holders 214 and 215 and the second pin holders 224 and 225 can be inserted into the first pin insertion hole 100a and the second pin insertion hole 100b of the stage 100 under appropriate pressure.

[0131] Next, refer to Figures 11 to 18 A method for manufacturing a solar cell according to one embodiment of the present invention will be described. Figures 11 to 18 For details not shown in the description, please refer to the relevant section. Figures 1 to 9 The description.

[0132] Figure 11 yes Figure 4 A side view of part B. Figure 12 yes Figure 10Part C is a plan view showing the first pin holder of the first pin insertion unit, which holds the first pin. Figure 13 yes Figure 10 Part C is a plan view showing a first pin insertion unit shifter of the first pin insertion unit, which moves the first pin holder in the direction of setting the stage, and the first pin holder inserts the first pin into the first pin insertion hole of the stage. Figure 14 yes Figure 10 Part C is a plan view showing the first pin holder release pin. Figure 15 yes Figure 10 A plan view of part C shows the first pin insertion unit shifter shifting the first pin holder in the opposite direction to the stage. Figure 16 This is a flowchart illustrating a method for manufacturing a solar cell according to an embodiment of the present invention. Figure 17 This is a flowchart illustrating the detailed steps in the operation of a pin feeder according to an embodiment of the present invention. Figure 18 It shows the setting Figure 17 A flowchart detailing the steps of inserting the first pin into the first pin insertion hole of a platform by the first pin insertion unit on one side of the pin feeder body. Figure 19 It shows the setting Figure 17 A flowchart detailing the steps of inserting a second pin into a second pin insertion hole on a platform using a second pin insertion unit located on one side of the pin feeder body.

[0133] Reference Figure 16 According to one embodiment of the present invention, a solar cell manufacturing method can be performed while the stage 100 moves at a preset pitch P. For example, as the supplied stage 100 moves at the preset pitch P, a wire w, a solar cell C, and a clamp J can be arranged on the stage 100, so that processes such as heating, curing, and removal can be performed sequentially.

[0134] The solar cell manufacturing method according to this embodiment includes the following steps: supplying a stage (S100); supplying wires to the stage (S200); supplying the solar cell and fixture to the stage (S300); preheating the solar cell and fixture (S400); curing the solar cell and fixture (S500); and removing the solar cell (S800).

[0135] Additionally, the step of supplying the platform (S100) can refer to the step of supplying the platform. For example, step S100 can refer to the step of raising the platform feeder 40 to supply the platform 100 to the platform supply area Z2. The platform 100 supplied in the platform supply step S100 can be conveyed one pitch P at a time according to the processing sequence.

[0136] The step of supplying wires to the platform (S200) can be performed after the supply platform (S100). The step of supplying wires to the platform (S200) can be the step of guiding the wire feeder 30 to supply wire w onto the platform 100. For example, step S200 can refer to the step of supplying wires onto the platform 100 placed in the solar cell mounting area Z3 and the clamp fixing area Z4. Specifically, in step S200, the wire feeder 30 can extend the wire w to the platform supply area Z2, the solar cell mounting area Z3, and the clamp fixing area Z4 via a clamp. Here, the extended wire w can be guided by a wire groove formed on the platform 100.

[0137] The step of supplying the solar cell and the fixture to the platform (S300) can be performed after the step of supplying the wires to the platform (S200). Step S300, supplying the solar cell and the fixture to the platform, can refer to the step of supplying the solar cell C and the fixture J to the platform 100 on which the wires w are provided. For example, step S300 can refer to the step of supplying the solar cell C to the platform 100 provided in the solar cell placement area Z3, and the step of supplying the fixture J to the platform 100 provided in the fixture fixing area Z4. In step S300, the solar cell C and the fixture J can be simultaneously supplied to the corresponding areas by the battery fixture conveying unit 91. Furthermore, the wires w provided on the solar cell C can be fixed to the solar cell C by the fixture J supplied in step S300. That is, it can be done as follows... Figure 2 As shown in (e), the wire w1, the solar cell C, the wire w2 and the clamp can be sequentially arranged on the stage 100 in the clamp fixing area Z4.

[0138] A preheating step (S400) can be performed after the step of supplying the solar cell and fixture onto the stage (S300). The preheating step (S400) can refer to the step of preheating the solar cell C and wire w disposed on the stage 100 by a first heater H1 in the preheating zone Z5. For example, as... Figure 2 As shown in (f), in step S400, the solar cell C and the lower conductor w1 and upper conductor w2 respectively disposed on the upper and lower surfaces of the solar cell C can be preheated by the first heater H1 in the preheating zone Z5. Here, the first heater H1 can be disposed on the upper surface of the base 10, which transports and supports the aforementioned stage 100.

[0139] A curing step (S500) can be performed after the preheating step (S400) of the solar cell and fixture. The curing step (S500) can refer to the curing of the solar cell C and the wire w disposed on the stage 100 by a first heater H1 and a second heater H2 in the curing zone Z6. For example, in step S500, the solar cell C and the lower wire w1 and upper wire w2 disposed on the upper and lower surfaces of the solar cell C, respectively, can be cured in the curing zone Z6 by the first heater H1 and the second heater H2. Here, the second heater H2 can be disposed inside the curing unit 20 disposed above the base 10. The stage 100 can be transported between the first heater H1 and the second heater H2. Through step S500, the conductive adhesive (ECA) deposited on the upper and lower surfaces of the solar cell C can be cured, thereby allowing the wires w1 and w2 disposed on the upper and lower surfaces of the solar cell C to be physically and electrically connected to the solar cell C.

[0140] The step of removing the solar cell (S800) can be performed after the step of curing the solar cell and the fixture (S500). In step S800, the solar cell C, to which wires w1 and w2 are connected, can be removed. For example, the solar cell C, to which wires w1 and w2 are connected, can be separated from and removed from the stage 100 by the battery delivery unit 50.

[0141] The solar cell manufacturing method according to an embodiment of the present invention may further include a step of post-heating the solar cell and the fixture (S510). The step of post-heating the solar cell and the fixture (S510) can be performed between the step of curing the solar cell and the fixture (S500) and the step of removing the solar cell (S800). For example, step S510 may refer to the step of post-heating the solar cell C that has left the curing unit 20 after the curing step S500 in the exit zone Z7 using a first heater H1. Step S510 can act as a buffer step by slowly lowering the temperature of the solar cell C that has left the curing unit 20 in the exit zone Z7. Step S510 can prevent the cured solar cell C from experiencing sudden temperature changes, thereby further improving the quality of the solar cell C.

[0142] The solar cell manufacturing method according to an embodiment of the present invention may further include a step of retrieving the fixture (S600). The step of retrieving the fixture (S600) may be performed between the step of curing the solar cell and the fixture (S500) and the step of removing the solar cell (S800). For example, step S600 may refer to the step of retrieving the fixture J placed on the stage 100 after the stage 100 has passed through the curing zone Z6 and the exit zone Z7. Specifically, in step S600, the fixture J disposed on the stage 100 recovery unit 40' can be separated from the stage 100 and the solar cell C and retrieved by the fixture recovery unit 71. Alternatively, step S600 may refer to the step of retrieving the fixture J disposed in a fixture recovery area (not shown), which is located between the exit zone Z7 and the stage recovery unit 40'. Here, the fixture recovery unit 71 may be located in an area corresponding to the fixture recovery area.

[0143] The solar cell manufacturing method according to an embodiment of the present invention may further include a step of recycling the platform (S700). The step of recycling the platform (S700) can be performed between the step of curing the solar cell and the fixture (S500) and the step of removing the solar cell (S800). For example, step S700 may refer to the step of recycling the platform 100 that has passed through the curing zone Z6 and the exit zone Z7. Specifically, in step S700, the platform 100 can be recycled by the platform recycling unit 40'. The platform recycling unit 40' is connected to the platform feeder 40, and the platform 100 recycled by the platform recycling unit 40' can be conveyed to the platform feeder 40. The platform feeder 40 can then resupply the conveyed platform 100 to the platform supply zone Z2.

[0144] Therefore, as the stage 100 moves sequentially through the stage supply area Z2, the solar cell placement area Z3, the fixture fixing area Z4, the preheating area Z5, the curing area Z6, and the exit area Z7, the preparation and execution of the curing process for the solar cell C can be performed sequentially.

[0145] In other words, the steps of supplying wires w to the stage 100, placing the solar cell C on the stage 100, placing wires w on both surfaces of the solar cell C, and pressing the wires w placed on the upper surface of the solar cell C by the clamp J are performed sequentially. Then, after the step of preheating the solar cell C by the first heater H1, the stage 100 with the solar cell C (with wires placed on the solar cell C) enters the curing zone Z6 defined by the curing unit 20 and undergoes curing treatment in the curing zone Z6, thereby enabling the curing treatment to be performed systematically and stably.

[0146] Furthermore, after the curing process is complete, the carrier and fixtures used to transport solar cells can be recycled and resupplyed, thus enabling the recycling of components.

[0147] The operation of the pin feeder will be described in more detail below.

[0148] Reference Figure 17 In the solar cell manufacturing method according to the embodiment, the step S100 of supplying the stage may include the following steps: inserting a first pin into a stage (S110) and inserting a second pin into another stage (S120).

[0149] For example, the step of inserting the first pin into a platform (S110) can refer to the step of the first pin insertion unit 210, located on one side of the pin feeder body 200a, inserting the first pin P1 into the first pin insertion hole 100a of a platform. Similarly, the step of inserting the second pin into another platform (S120) can refer to the step of the second pin insertion unit 220, located on the other side of the pin feeder body 200a, inserting the second pin P2 into the second pin insertion hole 100b of another platform. The steps of inserting the first pin into a platform (S110) and inserting the second pin into another platform (S120) can be repeated alternately.

[0150] Reference Figures 12 to 15 and Figure 18 The step of inserting the first pin into a platform (S110) includes the following steps: clamping the first pin P1 (S111); inserting the first pin P1 into the first pin insertion hole 100a (S112); releasing the clamping of the first pin P1 (S113); and displacing the pin feeder 200 in a direction different from the position of the platform 100 (S114). Specifically, the step of displacing the pin feeder 200 in a direction different from the position of the platform 100 (S114) may include displacing the first pin holders 214 and 215 in a direction different from the position of the platform 100, that is, in a direction opposite to the direction of the platform 100.

[0151] For example, the step of clamping the first pin P1 (S111) can refer to the step of the first pin holders 214 and 215 clamping the first pin P1. Alternatively, the step of inserting the first pin P1 into the first pin insertion hole 100a (S112) can refer to the step of the first pin insertion unit shifter 211 of the first pin insertion unit 210 shifting the first pin holders 214 and 215 in the direction of setting a platform, and the first pin holders 214 and 215 inserting the first pin P1 into the first pin insertion hole 100a of the platform. Furthermore, the step of releasing the clamping of the first pin P1 (S113) can refer to the step of releasing the clamping of the first pin P1 by the first pin holders 214 and 215. Furthermore, the step (S114) of shifting the first pin holders 214 and 215 in the direction opposite to the stage can refer to the step of the first pin insertion unit shifter 211 shifting the first pin holders 214 and 215 in the direction opposite to the stage 100. The steps mentioned above can be executed sequentially by the controller.

[0152] Reference Figure 12 The first pin holders 214 and 215 of the first pin insertion unit 210 can hold the first pin P1. Here, the two first pin holders 214 and 215 can remain in contact with each other to hold the first pin P1 inserted between the two holders.

[0153] The first pin P1 held by the clamp can be replaced by a pin with a different shape or length corresponding to the cutting condition.

[0154] Reference Figure 13 The first pin insertion unit shifter 211 of the first pin insertion unit 210 shifts the first pin holders 214 and 215 in the direction of setting a platform, and the first pin holders 214 and 215 can insert the first pin P1 into the first pin insertion hole 100a of a platform.

[0155] Here, the first pin holders 214 and 215 can insert the first pin P1 into the first pin insertion hole 100a while holding the first pin P1. The first pin holders 214 and 215 can insert the first pin P1 into the first pin insertion hole 100a while moving towards the stage 100.

[0156] Here, when the first pin holders 214 and 215 contact the first holder contact portion B1 coupled to the stage feeder 40, the first pin holders 214 and 215 stop their clamping action, and the first pin P1 is able to maintain a preset depth inserted into the first pin insertion hole 100a.

[0157] Reference Figure 14The clamping of the first pin P1 by the first pin holders 214 and 215 can be released. Here, the two first pin holders 214 and 215 can release their clamping and open to disengage from the first pin P1. The first pin P1 can be separated from the first pin holders 214 and 215 while remaining inserted into the first pin insertion hole 100a. The clamping and releasing operations of the two first pin holders 214 and 215 can be driven by a motor of the first insertion unit body. The first insertion unit body can receive signals from the controller regarding the clamping operation and can selectively drive the clamping and releasing operations of the two holders in response to the signals.

[0158] Reference Figure 15 The first pin insertion unit shifter 211 can shift the first pin holders 214 and 215 in the opposite direction to the stage 100. Thus, the first pin holders 214 and 215 can return to their original positions without holding the first pin P1. Then, a new pin is held by the first pin holders 214 and 215, and a new stage is supplied again by the stage feeder 40. When the new stage is one that requires a pin, the stage feeder 40 can advance again toward the corresponding stage to install the new pin onto it.

[0159] Although the operation of the first pin insertion unit 210 has been described above, it should be understood that the operation of the second pin insertion unit 220 can also be performed in a manner corresponding to the operation method of the first pin insertion unit 210.

[0160] In other words, referencing Figures 12 to 15 and Figure 19 The step of inserting the second pin into the stage (S120) includes the following steps: clamping the second pin P2 (S121); inserting the second pin P2 into the second pin insertion hole 100b (S122); releasing the clamping of the second pin P2 (S123); and displacing the pin feeder 200 in a direction different from the position of the stage 100 (S124). Specifically, the step of displacing the pin feeder 200 in a direction different from the position of the stage 100 (S124) may include the step of displacing the second pin holders 224 and 225 in a direction different from the position of the stage 100, that is, in a direction opposite to the direction of the stage 100.

[0161] For example, the step of clamping the second pin P2 (S121) can refer to the step of the second pin holders 224 and 225 clamping the second pin P2. Furthermore, the step of inserting the second pin P2 into the second pin insertion hole 100b (S122) can refer to the step of the second pin insertion unit shifter 221 of the second pin insertion unit 220 shifting the second pin holders 224 and 225 in the direction of setting a platform, and the second pin holders 224 and 225 inserting the second pin P2 into the second pin insertion hole 100b of a platform. Furthermore, the step of releasing the clamping of the second pin P2 (S123) can refer to the step of releasing the clamping of the second pin P2 by the second pin holders 224 and 225. Furthermore, the step (S124) of moving the second pin holders 224 and 225 in the opposite direction to the stage can refer to the step of the second pin insertion unit shifter 221 shifting the second pin holders 224 and 225 in the opposite direction to the stage 100. The steps mentioned above can be executed sequentially by the controller.

[0162] Reference Figure 12 The second pin holders 224 and 225 of the second pin insertion unit 220 can hold the second pin P2. Here, the two second pin holders 224 and 225 can remain in contact with each other to hold the second pin P2 inserted between the two holders.

[0163] The second pin P2 held by the clamp can be replaced by a pin with a different shape or length corresponding to the cutting condition.

[0164] Reference Figure 13 The second pin insertion unit shifter 221 of the second pin insertion unit 220 shifts the second pin holders 224 and 225 in the direction of setting a platform, and the second pin holders 224 and 225 can insert the second pin P2 into the second pin insertion hole 100b of a platform.

[0165] Here, the second pin holders 224 and 225 can insert the second pin P2 into the second pin insertion hole 100b while holding the second pin. The second pin holders 224 and 225 can insert the second pin P2 into the second pin insertion hole 100b while moving towards the stage 100.

[0166] When the second pin holders 224 and 225 contact the second holder contact portion B2 coupled to the stage feeder 40, the second pin holders 224 and 225 stop their clamping action, and the second pin P2 is able to maintain a preset depth inserted into the second pin insertion hole 100b.

[0167] Reference Figure 14The clamping of the second pin P2 by the second pin holders 224 and 225 can be released. Here, both holders of the second pin holders 224 and 225 can release their clamping and open to disengage from the second pin P2. The second pin P2 can be separated from the second pin holders 224 and 225 while remaining inserted into the second pin insertion hole 100a. The clamping and releasing operations of the two holders of the second pin holders 224 and 225 can be driven by a motor of the second insertion unit body. The second insertion unit body can receive signals from the controller regarding the clamping operation and can selectively drive the clamping and releasing operations of the two holders in response to these signals.

[0168] Reference Figure 15 The second pin insertion unit shifter 221 can shift the second pin holders 224 and 225 in the opposite direction to the stage 100. Thus, the second pin holders 224 and 225 can return to their original positions without holding the second pin P2. Then, a new pin is held by the second pin holders 224 and 225, and a new stage is supplied again by the stage feeder 40. When the new stage is one that requires a pin, the stage feeder 40 can advance again toward the corresponding stage to install the new pin onto it.

[0169] While the invention has been described with reference to embodiments and accompanying drawings, it should be understood that these embodiments are provided by way of example only, and various modifications, alterations, and variations can be made without departing from the spirit and scope of the invention. The scope of the invention should be defined by the appended claims.

[0170] The specific technical details described in the embodiments are provided by way of example and do not limit the scope of the invention. To make the description of the invention concise and clear, descriptions of typical techniques and configurations in the art may be omitted. Furthermore, the connections of lines or connecting members between components shown in the drawings are for illustrating functional connections and / or physical or circuit connections, which can be represented by various alternative or additional functional, physical, or circuit connections in an actual device. In addition, unless specifically stated as "essential," "important," etc., some components may not be required when applying the invention.

[0171] Unless otherwise stated, the word "described" or similar designations in the specification and claims of this invention may refer to both the singular and the plural. Furthermore, when a scope is described in an embodiment, it is intended to include the invention having individual values ​​within that scope (unless otherwise stated), and it means that each individual value constituting that scope is described in the description of the invention. Additionally, the steps constituting the method according to an embodiment may be performed in any suitable order unless the order is explicitly stated or otherwise indicated. It should be understood that the embodiment is not necessarily limited to the order in which the steps are described. Unless defined by the claims, the use of any exemplary or illustrative terms (e.g., "etc.") in the embodiments is intended only to describe the embodiments in detail and not to limit the scope of the embodiments. Furthermore, those skilled in the art will recognize that various modifications, combinations, alterations, and changes can be made based on the design conditions and factors within the scope of the appended claims or their equivalents.

Claims

1. A solar cell manufacturing apparatus, comprising: Multiple platforms are arranged in a row to contact each other, and each platform has a solar cell mounted thereon; A base that supports the plurality of platforms while conveying the plurality of platforms to the curing zone; as well as A pin feeder, disposed on one side of the base, supplies pins between two predetermined adjacent platforms among the plurality of platforms. The two platforms coupled to the pins supplied by the pin feeder are spaced apart from each other.

2. The solar cell manufacturing apparatus according to claim 1, wherein... The pin feeder includes: The main body of the supply unit; as well as A pin insertion unit is disposed in the pin feeder body and inserts at least one pin into one side of the platform.

3. The solar cell manufacturing apparatus according to claim 2, wherein... The multiple platforms form multiple platform modules arranged in a row and in contact with each other. The plurality of platform modules are sequentially conveyed on the base, and The pin is inserted between two adjacent platform modules.

4. The solar cell manufacturing apparatus according to claim 3, wherein The pin insertion unit includes: The first pin insertion unit is disposed on one side of the pin feeder body and inserts the first pin into one side of the platform. as well as A second pin insertion unit is disposed on the other side of the pin feeder body and inserts a second pin into the other side of the platform. The first pin insertion unit and the second pin insertion unit alternately insert the first pin and the second pin between the plurality of transport platform modules.

5. The solar cell manufacturing apparatus according to claim 2, further comprising: A platform feeder that receives the platform into which the pin is to be inserted and places the platform on the platform at a position corresponding to the pin feeder.

6. The solar cell manufacturing apparatus according to claim 5, wherein... The stage feeder includes a clamping contact portion that contacts the pin feeder when the pin is inserted into the stage.

7. The solar cell manufacturing apparatus according to claim 1, wherein... The pin has a length (L2) ranging from about 10% to about 20% of the length (L1) of the platform.

8. The solar cell manufacturing apparatus according to claim 1, wherein Each of the platforms has a pin insertion hole formed on its side surface, and The pin is inserted into the pin insertion hole.

9. A method for manufacturing a solar cell, comprising: Supply platform; The wires are supplied to the platform; The solar cell and fixture are supplied onto the platform on which the wires are supplied; Preheat the solar cell and the fixture on the platform; The solar cell and the fixture on the stage are cured; as well as Remove the solar cell. The step of supplying the platform includes: Insert the first pin into the stage; and Insert the second pin into the stage.

10. The method for manufacturing a solar cell according to claim 9, wherein... The steps of inserting the first pin into the stage and inserting the second pin into the stage are performed alternately.

11. The method for manufacturing a solar cell according to claim 9, wherein... The step of inserting the first pin into the stage includes: Clamp the first pin; Insert the first pin into the first pin insertion hole of the stage; Release the clamp on the first pin; as well as The pin feeder is moved in a direction different from the position where the platform is set.

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