DEVICE AND METHOD FOR MAINTAINING A PHOTOVOLTAIC CELL, DEVICE FOR DEPOSITTING THIN FILMS AND METHOD FOR PASSIVATING A PHOTOVOLTAIC CELL

Abstract

The invention relates to a device for holding (1) a photovoltaic cell (5) to form a passivation layer on said photovoltaic cell, the photovoltaic cell comprising a first face (5A), a second face (5B) and a peripheral edge (5C) connecting the first face and the second face, the device comprising: - a first support part (10) comprising a first support face (10A) and a second support face (10B), the first support face being provided with a first sealing gasket (15) shaped according to a perimeter of the photovoltaic cell, - a second support part (20) comprising a third support face (20A) and a fourth support face (20B), the third support face being provided with a second sealing gasket (25) shaped according to the perimeter of the photovoltaic cell, and - compression means (30A,30B) configured to hold the photovoltaic cell tightly against the first sealing gasket and against the second sealing gasket. Figure for the abbreviation: Fig. 1,

Description

Title of the invention: DEVICE AND METHOD FOR MAINTAINING A PHOTOVOLTAIC CELL, DEVICE FOR DEPOSITTING THIN FILMS AND METHOD FOR PASSIVATING A PHOTOVOLTAIC CELL technical field

[0001] The present invention relates generally to the manufacture of photovoltaic cells.

[0002] The invention relates more particularly to a device and a method for maintaining at least one photovoltaic cell.

[0003] It also relates to a thin film deposition device and a method for passivating at least one photovoltaic cell. STATE OF THE ART

[0004] A photovoltaic module comprises a multitude of identical photovoltaic cells connected in series and / or parallel to provide the output voltage and / or current required to power electrical devices. The most common module format uses 60 square (or "pseudo-square") cells, 156 mm on each side, arranged in six strings of ten cells connected in series. The six strings of photovoltaic cells are also connected in series. The open-circuit voltage across the module is then equal to 60 times the threshold voltage of a photovoltaic cell. The module's electrical current corresponds approximately to the current supplied by each photovoltaic cell (in practice, photovoltaic cells do not have exactly the same performance, and the electrical current is limited by the least efficient cell in the module).

[0005] With the latest photovoltaic cell technologies, particularly PERT (Passivated Emitter and Rear Totally Diffused) technology, the current of a monofacial cell with a surface area of ​​156 mm x 156 mm reaches high values, on the order of 9 A for a solar irradiance of 1000 W / m². These current values ​​are increased by approximately 20% when using a bifacial cell, due to the diffuse solar radiation captured on the rear face of the cell. This high electrical current flows through the interconnecting elements between the cells of the module and causes significant resistive losses.

[0006] In order to reduce these resistive losses, one solution is to assemble modules with photovoltaic cells of smaller surface area, and therefore lower current. These smaller surface area cells are commonly called "sub-cells" and obtained by cutting full-size photovoltaic cells (e.g. 156 mm x 156 mm).

[0007] However, cutting a photovoltaic cell creates new edges that are left exposed. Furthermore, cutting (with a laser, for example) is likely to create defects and introduce impurities near the cutting plane. These defects and impurities reduce the lifetime of free charge carriers by acting as recombination centers for electron-hole pairs, resulting in a decrease in cell efficiency. This phenomenon is particularly pronounced for heterojunction photovoltaic (HET) cells, which by nature have very few surface defects and where the creation of a few localized defects is sufficient to significantly reduce the cell's electrical performance.

[0008] A method for passivating photovoltaic cells which allows the deposit of a passivation material to be located in the vicinity of only one edge of the photovoltaic cell is known in particular from document FR3091025.

[0009] To be compatible with the requirements of industrial production, while depositing a passivation material only on the edges of the photovoltaic cells, document FR3091025 describes an arrangement consisting of stacking a plurality of photovoltaic cells on top of each other, the stack resting directly on a support.

[0010] According to this arrangement, the front and rear faces of each photovoltaic cell are therefore in direct contact with one of the faces of another photovoltaic cell or with the substrate. This direct contact leads to a risk of damage to these front and rear faces. Furthermore, the front and / or rear faces include metallized components (e.g., collector fingers, busbars) onto which interconnecting elements (ribbons, wires, etc.) are welded or bonded.

[0011] In addition, stacking a large number of photovoltaic cells also presents risks of breakage of the photovoltaic cells included in the stack, in particular for the photovoltaic cells positioned in a lower part of the stack and which then suffer the pressure exerted by all the photovoltaic cells stacked above them.

[0012] Furthermore, in practice, stacking photovoltaic cells directly on top of each other does not allow the thin film deposition to be confined to the peripheral edge of the photovoltaic cell. Part of the thin film is deposited on the front and rear faces of the photovoltaic cell. Summary of the invention

[0013] The present invention therefore aims to improve the manufacture of photovoltaic cells by ensuring in particular that the passivation process of the photovoltaic cells Voltaic does not degrade the photovoltaic cells themselves or their electrical performance.

[0014] The invention relates firstly to a device for holding at least one photovoltaic cell to form a passivation layer on a part of said photovoltaic cell, the photovoltaic cell comprising a first face, a second face opposite said first face, and a peripheral edge connecting the first face and the second face, the holding device comprising: - a first support part comprising a first support face and a second support face opposite said first support face, the first support face being provided with a first sealing gasket shaped around the perimeter of the photovoltaic cell, - a second support part comprising a third support face and a fourth support face opposite said third support face, the third support face being provided with a second sealing gasket shaped around the perimeter of the photovoltaic cell, and - compression means configured to hold the photovoltaic cell in tight contact against the first sealing gasket and against the second sealing gasket.

[0015] Thus, advantageously according to the invention, when the photovoltaic cell is held in the holding device, only the peripheral edge of the photovoltaic cell is visible and accessible from outside the holding device (into which the photovoltaic cell is inserted). In other words, the first sealing gasket and the second sealing gasket isolate the first and second faces of the photovoltaic cell, placed in the holding device, from outside the holding device.

[0016] Thus, during the deposition of a passivation layer, only the peripheral edge of the photovoltaic cell is exposed to the passivation species, so that the passivation layer is formed only on this peripheral edge.

[0017] Furthermore, thanks to the presence of the sealing gaskets, the first and second faces of the photovoltaic cell are not subjected to stress in the areas with metallization. Their electrical performance is therefore maintained.

[0018] In addition to the characteristics mentioned in the preceding paragraphs, the holding device according to one aspect of the invention may have one or more additional characteristics from among the following, considered individually or according to all technically possible combinations:

[0019] - means are provided for positioning the photovoltaic cell between the first part of support and second part of support;

[0020] - the positioning means include guiding elements positioned in edge of the first sealing joint and / or the second sealing joint so as to position the perimeter of the photovoltaic cell opposite the first sealing joint and the second sealing joint;

[0021] - the positioning means comprise at least one configured robotic arm to position the photovoltaic cell between the first support part and the second support part so that the perimeter of the photovoltaic cell is positioned opposite the first sealing joint and the second sealing joint;

[0022] - the first support face of the first support part includes a groove shaped to fix the first sealing gasket onto the first part of the support;

[0023] - the third support face of the second support part includes a groove shaped to fix the second sealing gasket onto the second support part;

[0024] - the compression means are configured to exert a pressure force on greater than 2 Newtons to keep the photovoltaic cell pressed tightly against the first sealing gasket and against the second sealing gasket;

[0025] - the compression means are configured to exert a pressure force between 2 and 10 Newtons to keep the photovoltaic cell pressed tightly against the first sealing gasket and against the second sealing gasket;

[0026] - the compression means comprise two pistons positioned on either side of the first support part and the second support part;

[0027] - the compression means comprise a load element positioned on the second support part so as to exert said pressure force;

[0028] - the first sealing gasket and the second sealing gasket are formed in a flexible polymer material;

[0029] - it is also planned:

[0030] a third support part comprising a fifth support face and a sixth support face opposite said fifth support face, the fifth support face being provided with a third sealing gasket shaped according to another perimeter of another photovoltaic cell, said other perimeter of the other photovoltaic cell being similar to the perimeter of the photovoltaic cell, said other photovoltaic cell comprising another first face, another second face, opposite said other first face, and another peripheral edge connecting the other first face and the other second face,

[0031] the fourth support face of the second support part being provided with a fourth sealing gasket shaped according to the perimeter of the other photovoltaic cell,

[0032] the compression means being configured to maintain the other photovoltaic cell in tight contact against the third sealing gasket and against the fourth sealing gasket.

[0033] The invention also relates to a device for depositing thin films (and in particular for depositing at least one passivation layer) on at least a part of a photovoltaic cell comprising:

[0034] - a holding device as defined above,

[0035] - at least one photovoltaic cell positioned in the retaining device,

[0036] - a thin film deposition chamber (and in particular a deposition chamber for at least one passivation layer) comprising a side wall defining a housing for the retaining device in which said photovoltaic cell is positioned, and

[0037] - means for injecting at least one type of passivation agent to form a passivation layer on the peripheral edge of the photovoltaic cell when the passivation material is flush with the peripheral edge of the photovoltaic cell.

[0038] Pumping means for the passivation species are also provided, configured to allow the circulation of the passivation species around the holding device in a directional flow.

[0039] The present invention also relates to a method for retaining at least one photovoltaic cell comprising a first face, a second face opposite said first face, and a peripheral edge connecting the first face and the second face, the method comprising the steps of:

[0040] - supply of a first support part comprising a first face of support and a second support face opposite said first support face, the first support face being provided with a first sealing gasket shaped around the perimeter of the photovoltaic cell,

[0041] - supply of a second support part comprising a third face of support and a fourth support face opposite said third support face, the third support face being provided with a second sealing gasket shaped around the perimeter of the photovoltaic cell,

[0042] - positioning of the photovoltaic cell between the first part of the support and the second part of support, and

[0043] - compression of a stack formed by the first part of the support, the cell photovoltaic and the second support part so as to hold the photovoltaic cell in tight contact against the first sealing gasket and against the second sealing gasket.

[0044] In this holding method, the positioning step includes the successive positioning of the first support part, the photovoltaic cell and the second support part.

[0045] The invention also relates to a method for passivating at least one photocell photovoltaic system including stages of:

[0046] - holding the photovoltaic cell in a holding device according to a maintenance method as previously introduced,

[0047] - positioning of the retaining device equipped with the photovoltaic cell in a thin-film deposition chamber, and

[0048] -injection of at least one passivation species into the thin film deposition chamber so as to form a passivation layer on a peripheral edge of the photovoltaic cell when the passivation species is flush with the peripheral edge of the photovoltaic cell. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE FIGURES

[0049] Other features and advantages of the invention will become clear from the description given below, by way of example and not limitation, with reference to the accompanying figures, among which:

[0050] [Fig. 1] is a perspective representation of a holding device according to a first embodiment of the invention,

[0051] [Fig.2] is a cross-sectional view along axis AA of the holding device of the [Fig.1],

[0052] [Fig.3] is a cross-sectional view of a variant of the retaining device of the [Fig.1],

[0053] [Fig.4] is a top view of a support portion included in the device maintenance of [Fig.1],

[0054] [Fig.5] represents a side view of a holding device, in a loading position, according to a second embodiment according to the invention,

[0055] [Fig.6] represents a side view of a retaining device, in a compression position, according to the second embodiment of the invention,

[0056] [Fig.7] represents a side view of a holding device, in a loading position, according to a third embodiment according to the invention,

[0057] [Fig.8] represents a side view of a holding device, in a compression position, according to a third embodiment of the invention,

[0058] [Fig.9] represents a side view of a holding device, in a loading position, according to a fourth embodiment according to the invention,

[0059] [Fig. 10] represents a side view of a holding device, in a compression position, according to a fourth embodiment of the invention,

[0060] [Fig. 11] is a top view of a support portion included in the retaining device of [Fig. 9], and

[0061] [Fig. 12] represents an example of the thin film deposition device according to the present invention.

[0062] For clarity, identical or similar elements are identified by identical reference signs throughout the figures.

[0063] DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF AT LEAST ONE EMBODIMENT

[0064] The present invention aims to improve the manufacturing of photovoltaic cells and, in particular, to improve the passivation phase of photovoltaic cells. More specifically, the present invention aims, initially, to improve the maintenance of photovoltaic cells during the passivation phase.

[0065] For this purpose, the invention proposes, as shown in Figures 1 to 11, a holding device 1; 100; 150; 200 for at least one photovoltaic cell 5. This holding device 1; 100; 150; 200 actually corresponds here to a nacelle allowing the loading of at least one photovoltaic cell 5. The term "nacelle" here means a support receiving the photovoltaic cell 5 on the surface of which a thin layer of a passivation layer will be deposited.

[0066] It should be noted here that the photovoltaic cell 5 is not part of the holding device 1; 100; 150; 200 itself. However, for clarity, the holding device 1; 100; 150; 200 is described in relation to this photovoltaic cell 5.

[0067] The photovoltaic cells 5 concerned by the present invention are, for example, sub-cells, that is to say portions or pieces of a full-size photovoltaic cell (also referred to as a "whole" photovoltaic cell).

[0068] The sub-cells are for example previously obtained by cutting full-size photovoltaic cells.

[0069] Full-size photovoltaic cells were previously manufactured from semiconductor substrates, for example, crystalline silicon. These substrates were initially cut from a silicon ingot and then subjected to several manufacturing steps (for example, surface structuring, doping, annealing, passivation, screen printing, etc.), but no further cutting steps. The full-size photovoltaic cells have passivation layers on all of their faces and lateral surfaces.

[0070] The photovoltaic cells 5 concerned by the present invention each comprise a first face 5A and a second face 5B, opposite the first face 5A. The first face 5A is, for example, the one intended to be exposed to incident solar radiation.

[0071] Each photovoltaic cell 5 also includes a peripheral edge 5C connecting the first face 5A and the second face 5B. This peripheral edge 5C therefore corresponds to the lateral surface connecting the first face 5A and the second face 5B. By definition here, the peripheral edge 5C thus extends around the entire perimeter of the first face 5A and the second face 5B of the photovoltaic cell 5. In this description, the "perimeter" of the photovoltaic cell 5 means the contour line of the first face 5A and / or the second face 5B.

[0072] Viewed from the front (from the first face 5A or the second face 5B), the photovoltaic cells 5 preferably have a rectangular or pseudo-rectangular shape. In the pseudo-rectangular format, the four corners of the photovoltaic cells 5 are truncated or rounded. In particular, the photovoltaic cells 5 may have a square or pseudo-square shape.

[0073] The perimeter of the photovoltaic cell 5 therefore has a rectangular or pseudo-rectangular shape (or, in the particular case, a square or pseudo-square shape).

[0074] The dimensions of the first face 5A and the second face 5B are generally standardized, for example 156 mm x 156 mm.

[0075] The photovoltaic cells 5 can be monofacial or bifacial. In the case of a monofacial cell, only the first face 5A of the photovoltaic cell 5 captures solar radiation. In the case of a bifacial cell, both faces 5A and 5B of the photovoltaic cell 5 capture solar radiation. The first face 5A is then the one that allows for obtaining the maximum electric current when it is facing the sun.

[0076] Preferably, the photovoltaic cells 5 are ready to be interconnected in a string of cells. They are provided on the first face 5A and / or on the second face 5B with one or more metallizations (not shown) intended to collect the photogenerated charge carriers and to receive interconnecting elements, for example, metallic wires or ribbons. The metallizations are preferably electrically conductive tracks called "busbars". The busbars can electrically connect collection fingers distributed over the entire surface of the first face 5A and / or the second face 5B. The second face 5B of the photovoltaic cells 5 can also be entirely metallized. In an embodiment, the photovoltaic cells 5 are without busbars 5 but only have collection fingers.

[0077] Since the photovoltaic cells 5 are obtained by cutting a full-size photovoltaic cell whose faces are equipped with passivation layers, the first face 5A and the second face 5B of each photovoltaic cell 5 have a passivation layer. This passivation layer renders the surface defects of the photovoltaic cell 100 inactive and improves the lifetime of the photogenerated charge carriers.

[0078] In contrast, the peripheral edge 5C of the photovoltaic cell includes areas where the semiconductor material (i.e., silicon) has been exposed. In other words, these areas of the peripheral edge 5C lack a passivation layer (due to the cutting process), unlike the first face 5A, the second face 5B, and any other areas of the peripheral edge 5C of the photovoltaic cell 5. For example, when a full-size photovoltaic cell is cut into four parallel cell bands, two cell bands have two parallel non-passivated edges, and two other cell bands have only one non-passivated edge.

[0079] The present invention therefore aims to protect, by forming a passivation layer, those areas in which the semiconductor material is exposed, without this deposit reaching the first face 5A and the second face 5B (because this would risk degrading the electrical performance of the photovoltaic cell 5).

[0080] For this purpose, the present invention relates first of all to the holding device 1; 100; 150; 200 of the photovoltaic cell 5 for the purpose of forming a passivation layer on a part of this photovoltaic cell 5.

[0081] Figures 1 to 11 represent different embodiments of the holding device according to the present invention.

[0082] Figures 1 to 4 represent a first embodiment of the retaining device 1. As can be seen in these figures, the retaining device 1 comprises a first support part 10, a second support part 20 and compression means 30A, 30B; 30C.

[0083] The first support portion 10 comprises a first support face 10A and a second support face 10B opposite the first support face 10A. It is formed from a solid material, that is, one that does not contain any hollow portions. This makes it possible, in particular, to increase the resistance of the first support portion 10, especially during the compression applied by the compression means 30A, 30B, 30C (as will be described later). The solid material is, for example, a stainless steel or anodized aluminum type material. This material is particularly suitable for the passivation of photovoltaic cells because it will not be damaged during this process.

[0084] As can be seen in Figures 1 and 4, the first support portion 10 preferably has a generally parallelepiped shape. Alternatively, it could have a different shape, as long as the shape in question has two substantially parallel opposite faces (regardless of their shape).

[0085] The first support portion 10 here has a length 1 and a width L ([Fig. 4]), corresponding to characteristic dimensions of the rectangular section of the first support portion 10 (parallelepiped in shape). The length 1 and the width L are determined here according to the dimensions of the photovoltaic cell 5.

[0086] Preferably, the length 1 and the width L of the first support part 10 are similar to the length and width of the photovoltaic cell 5. By "similar" (or "similar"), it is meant in this description that the difference between the two quantities considered is less than 10%.

[0087] The length 1 is, for example, greater than 30 millimeters (mm). Preferably, it is between 50 and 210 mm.

[0088] The width L is, for example, greater than 20 mm. Preferably, it is between 25 and 210 mm.

[0089] As shown in Figures 1 to 4, the first support face 10A is provided with a first sealing gasket 15. This first sealing gasket 15 is configured to bear against the first face 5A of the photovoltaic cell 5.

[0090] The first sealing gasket 15 here has a rectangular cross-section (Figures 2 and 3). Alternatively, its cross-section may, for example, be cylindrical.

[0091] Advantageously here, the first sealing gasket 15 is shaped around the perimeter of the photovoltaic cell 5. In other words, the first sealing gasket 15 is in the form of a cord having the shape of the circumference (i.e. the outer limit) of the photovoltaic cell 5.

[0092] Here, knowing that the photovoltaic cell 5 has a rectangular shape, the first sealing gasket 15 therefore extends in a rectangular shape corresponding to the periphery of the photovoltaic cell 5 (as can be seen in [Fig.4]).

[0093] In practice, the first sealing gasket 15 is formed from a flexible polymer material. Such a flexible polymer material is defined, for example, using the standard Shore A hardness scale. In the context of the invention, the materials considered have, for example, a rating between 70 and 90 on this Shore A scale. These are, for example, fluoroelastomers.

[0094] In particular, the flexible polymer material used for the first sealing gasket 15 is here adapted to withstand passivation temperatures between 50 and 200 degrees Celsius (°C).

[0095] These include, for example, materials such as fluorinated elastomers (of the FKM type) or a mixture of synthetic rubber, elastomer and a fluorinated polymer material.

[0096] These materials are particularly advantageous for forming the first sealing gasket because they exhibit qualities of resistance to high temperatures (up to 200°C typically) and resistance to gases such as ozone and oxygen or plasma.

[0097] Moreover, these materials exhibit low permeability to gases, and in particular to the gases used for the passivation of the photovoltaic cell described below.

[0098] In other words, the materials used to form the first sealing gasket 15 are particularly suitable for the passivation of photovoltaic cells because they will not be damaged during this process. Thanks to the properties of the material used to form it, the sealing qualities of the first sealing gasket 15 are maintained for the applications covered by the present invention. (and in particular for the deposition of passivation layers).

[0099] The first sealing joint 15 is, for example, a static sealing joint in Viton™ brand fluoroelastomers.

[0100] The first sealing gasket 15 is fixed to the first support face 10A of the first support part 10. Regardless of the fixing method used, the first sealing gasket 15 is fixed to the first support part 10 so as to be located opposite the periphery of the photovoltaic cell 5. More particularly, the first sealing gasket 15 is fixed to the first support part 10 so as to be located opposite the end edge of the first face 5A of the photovoltaic cell 5.

[0101] Advantageously, the first support face 10 A of the first support part 10 includes a groove 16 shaped to allow the fixing of the first sealing gasket 15 in the first support part 10.

[0102] As can be seen in Figures 2 and 3, the groove 16 is "cut out", in the first support part 10, from the first support face 10A of the first support part 10.

[0103] Here, the groove 16 extends along the edge of the first support part 10, over the entire periphery of the first support face 10A. This then allows the first sealing gasket 15 to be positioned (and fixed) opposite the periphery of the first face 5A of the photovoltaic cell 5.

[0104] In order to allow the first sealing gasket 15 to be fixed to the first part of support 10, the groove 16 has for example a section (in the plane of the first support face 10A) that is smaller at the level of its opening (therefore at the level of the first support face 10A) than at the level of its bottom wall (in a plane parallel to the plane of the first support face 10A).

[0105] The first sealing gasket 15 is inserted into the groove 16 thus formed in exerting a pressure force (i.e., compressing it). The opening of the groove, with a smaller cross-section, then allows the first sealing gasket 15 to be held in the groove 16, and thus fixed to the first part of the support 10.

[0106] Alternatively, the groove 16 may have a cross-section (i.e. in a plane orthogonal to the first support face 10A) smaller than the cross-section of the first sealing joint 15.

[0107] The first sealing gasket 15 is inserted into the groove 16 shaped according This variant is achieved by exerting a pressure force (i.e., by compressing it). Once inserted into this groove 16, the first sealing gasket 15 expands. This expansion then results in a pressure force being exerted by the first sealing gasket 15 on the walls of the groove 16. This then holds the first sealing gasket 15 in the groove 16 (and thus allows it to be fixed to the first support part 10).

[0108] As an alternative to the groove described, the first sealing gasket can be bonded to the first support face 10A of the first support part 10. The adhesive used for bonding has, in particular, high-temperature resistance properties (typically up to 200°C). The adhesive also has low permeability to gases, and in particular to the gases used for the passivation of the photovoltaic cell described below. A fluoroelastomer-based adhesive can, for example, be used in this alternative.

[0109] As shown in Figures 1 to 4, the retaining device 1 also includes the second support portion 20. This second support portion 20 has characteristics similar to those of the first support portion 10 detailed previously. The second support portion 20 can be viewed, in this first embodiment of the invention, as the symmetrical counterpart of the first support portion 10 with respect to a plane in which the photovoltaic cell 5 will be positioned. These characteristics are presented hereafter in the context of the second support portion 20.

[0110] The second support portion 20 comprises a third support face 20A and a fourth support face 20B opposite the third support face 20A. It is formed from a solid material, meaning one that does not contain any hollow portions. This makes it possible, in particular, to increase the strength of the second support portion 20, especially during compression applied by the compression means (as will be described later). The solid material is, for example, a stainless steel or anodized aluminum type material. This material is particularly suitable for the passivation of photovoltaic cells because it will not be damaged during this process.

[0111] As can be seen in Figures 1 and 4, the second support part 20 preferably has a generally parallelepiped shape. Alternatively, it could have a different shape, as long as the shape in question has two substantially parallel opposite faces (regardless of their shape).

[0112] The second support part 20 here has a length 1 and a width L ([Fig. 4]), corresponding to the characteristic dimensions of the rectangular section of the second support part 20 (which is parallelepiped in shape). The length 1 and the width L are determined here according to the dimensions of the photovoltaic cell 5.

[0113] Preferably, the length 1 and the width L of the second support part 10 are similar to the length and width of the photovoltaic cell 5.

[0114] The length 1 is, for example, greater than 30 millimeters (mm). Preferably, it is between 50 and 210 mm.

[0115] The width L is, for example, greater than 20 mm. Preferably, it is between between 25 and 210 mm.

[0116] As shown in Figures 1 to 4, the third support face 20A is provided with a second sealing gasket 25. This second sealing gasket 25 is configured to bear against the second face 5B of the photovoltaic cell 5.

[0117] The second sealing gasket 25 here has a rectangular cross-section (Figures 2 and 3). Alternatively, its cross-section may, for example, be cylindrical.

[0118] Advantageously here, the second sealing gasket 25 is shaped around the perimeter of the photovoltaic cell 5. In other words, the second sealing gasket 25 is in the form of a cord having the shape of the circumference (i.e. the outer limit) of the photovoltaic cell 5.

[0119] Here, knowing that the photovoltaic cell 5 has a rectangular shape, the second sealing gasket 25 therefore extends in a rectangular shape corresponding to the periphery of the photovoltaic cell 5 (as can be seen in [Fig.4]).

[0120] In practice, the second sealing gasket 25 is formed from a flexible polymer material. Such a flexible polymer material is defined, for example, using the standard Shore A hardness scale. In the context of the invention, the materials considered have, for example, a rating between 70 and 90 on this Shore A scale. These are, for example, fluoroelastomers.

[0121] In particular, the flexible polymer material used for the second sealing gasket 15 is here adapted to withstand passivation temperatures between 50 and 200 degrees Celsius (°C).

[0122] These include, for example, materials such as fluorinated elastomers (of the FKM type) or a mixture of synthetic rubber, elastomer and a fluorinated polymer material.

[0123] These materials are particularly advantageous for forming the second sealing gasket because they exhibit qualities of resistance to high temperatures (up to 200°C typically) and resistance to gases such as ozone and oxygen or plasma.

[0124] Moreover, these materials exhibit low permeability to gases, and in particular to the gases used for the passivation of the photovoltaic cell described below.

[0125] In other words, the materials used to form the second sealing gasket 25 are particularly suitable for the passivation of photovoltaic cells because they will not be damaged during this process. Thanks to the properties of the material used to form it, the sealing qualities of the second sealing gasket 25 are maintained for the applications referred to in the present invention (and in particular for the deposition of passivation layers).

[0126] The second sealing gasket 25 is for example a static sealing gasket made of fluoroelastomers from the Viton™ brand.

[0127] The second sealing gasket 25 is fixed to the third support face 20A of the second support part 20. Regardless of the fixing method used, the second sealing gasket 25 is fixed to the second support part 20 so as to be located opposite the periphery of the photovoltaic cell 5. More particularly, the second sealing gasket 25 is fixed to the second support part 10 so as to be located opposite the end edge of the second face 5B of the photovoltaic cell 5.

[0128] Thus, the second sealing gasket 25 is positioned on the third support face 20A of the second support part 20, opposite the first sealing gasket 15 fixed to the first support part 10. This is particularly advantageous when holding the photovoltaic cell 5 between the first support part 10 and the second support part 20, because this positioning opposite the first sealing gasket 15 and the second sealing gasket 25 results in symmetrical support on the photovoltaic cell 5 (on the first face 5A and the second face 5B). This prevents any imbalance in the pressure forces applied to the two faces of the photovoltaic cell 5, and therefore avoids the risk of damage, or even breakage, of the photovoltaic cell 5 when it is held in the holding device 1 (for example, during the deposition of a passivation layer).

[0129] Advantageously, the third support face 20 A of the second support part 20 includes a groove 26 shaped to allow the fixing of the second sealing gasket 25 in the second support part 20.

[0130] As can be seen in Figures 2 and 3, the groove 26 is "cut out", in the second support part 20, from the third support face 20A of the second support part 20.

[0131] Here, the groove 26 extends along the edge of the second support part 20, over the entire periphery of the third support face 20A. This then allows the second sealing gasket 25 to be positioned (and fixed) opposite the periphery of the second face 5B of the photovoltaic cell 5.

[0132] In order to allow the fixing of the second sealing gasket 25 to the second support part 20, the groove 26 has for example a section (in the plane of the third support face 20A) smaller at the level of its opening (therefore at the level of the third support face 20A) than at the level of its bottom wall (in a plane parallel to the plane of the third support face 10A).

[0133] The second sealing gasket 25 is inserted into the groove 26 thus formed by applying a pressure force (i.e., by compressing it). The opening of the groove, with its smaller cross-section, then allows the second sealing gasket to be held in place. 25 in groove 26, and therefore to fix it to the second support part 20.

[0134] Alternatively, the groove 26 may have a cross-section (i.e. in a plane orthogonal to the third support face 20A) smaller than the cross-section of the second sealing joint 25.

[0135] The second sealing gasket 25 is inserted into the groove 26 formed according to this embodiment by applying a pressure force (i.e., by compressing it). Once inserted into this groove 26, the second sealing gasket 25 relaxes. This relaxation then results in a pressure force exerted by the second sealing gasket 25 on the walls of the groove 26. This then holds the second sealing gasket 25 in the groove 26 (and thus allows it to be fixed to the third support part 20).

[0136] As an alternative to the groove described, the second sealing gasket 25 can be bonded to the third support face 20A of the second support part 20. The adhesive used for bonding has, in particular, high-temperature resistance properties (typically up to 200°C). The adhesive also has low permeability to gases, and in particular to the gases used for the passivation of the photovoltaic cell described below. A fluoroelastomer-based adhesive can, for example, be used in this alternative.

[0137] Thus, the first support part 10 and the second support part 2 are arranged so as to "sandwich" the photovoltaic cell 5 to hold it in the holding device 1. More particularly, as can be seen in figures 1 to 3, the photovoltaic cell 5 is positioned between the first sealing gasket 15 and the second sealing gasket 25.

[0138] Advantageously, as described above, the first sealing gasket 15 and the second sealing gasket 25 are positioned opposite each other so as to bear symmetrically, respectively, on the first face 5A and the second face 5B of the photovoltaic cell 5.

[0139] In order for the photovoltaic cell 5 to be held in the holding device 1 in a particular position (in particular for the deposition of a passivation layer described below), the holding device 1 includes the compression means 30A, 30B; 30C.

[0140] These compression means 30A, 30B; 30C are configured to hold the photovoltaic cell 5 in tight contact against the first sealing gasket 15 and the second sealing gasket 25.

[0141] In this description, "tight support" means a close holding of the photovoltaic cell 5 between the first sealing gasket 15 and the second sealing gasket 25, by exerting a certain pressure force on it.

[0142] In other words, the compression means 30A, 30B; 30C make it possible to hold the photovoltaic cell 5 firmly between the first sealing joint and the second sealing joint 25 (therefore between the first support part 10 and the second support part 20) so that the position of the photovoltaic cell 5 thus maintained cannot be changed.

[0143] Taking into account the shape and positioning of the first sealing gasket 15 and the second sealing gasket 25, the tight support is implemented at the periphery of the first face 5A and the second face 5B of the photovoltaic cell 5, symmetrically on the first face 5A and the second face 5B.

[0144] In other words, this tight support is provided on the parts of the faces of the photovoltaic cell 5 that do not include metallizations or fragile elements. The location of this tight support therefore prevents degradation of the photovoltaic cell 5 and its electrical performance.

[0145] Furthermore, this arrangement makes it possible to exert a holding pressure force at the same level on the first face 5A and the second face 5B of the photovoltaic cell 5, so that there is no imbalance between the forces exerted on the two faces of the photovoltaic cell 5. This then makes it possible to avoid risks of breakage of the photovoltaic cell 5.

[0146] As can be seen in Figures 1 to 3, when the photovoltaic cell 5 is held in the holding device 1, only the peripheral edge 5C of the photovoltaic cell 5 is visible and accessible from outside the holding device 1 (into which the photovoltaic cell 5 is inserted). In other words, the first sealing gasket 15 and the second sealing gasket 25 isolate the first face 5A and the second face 5B of the photovoltaic cell 5, placed in the holding device 1, from outside the holding device 1 (and in particular, as will be described later, from the kind of passivation used for depositing a passivation layer).

[0147] In practice, the compression means 30A, 30B; 30C are configured to exert a pressure force greater than 2 Newtons (N).

[0148] Preferably according to the invention, the compression means 30A, 30B, and 30C are configured to exert a pressure force of between 2 and 10 N. Advantageously, this pressure force is sufficient to hold the photovoltaic cell 5 in position, without the photovoltaic cell 5 being able to move between the first sealing gasket 15 and the second sealing gasket 25 (and therefore between the first support portion 10 and the second support portion 20). Furthermore, the pressure force exerted by the compression means 30A, 30B, and 30C is not so great as to avoid the risk of breakage of the photovoltaic cell 5 (when it is held tightly between the first sealing gasket 15 and the second sealing gasket 25).

[0149] In practice, two positions of the retaining device 1 can be identified in depending on the state of the compression means 30A, 30B, 30C. When the compression means 30A, 30B, 30C are in a rest state (they therefore do not exert a compressive force), the retaining device is in a position called the "loading position" in which the photovoltaic cell 5 can be positioned between the first support part 10 and the second support part 20. The retaining device 1 is, in a sense, "open". In other words, in this loading position, the first sealing gasket 15 and the second sealing gasket 25 are spaced apart, i.e., a gap is defined between the two.

[0150] In this first embodiment, the gap between the first support part 10 and the second support part 20, in the loading position of the retaining device 1, is not critical.

[0151] When the compression means 30A, 30B, 30C exert the corresponding pressure force to hold the photovoltaic cell 5 between the first sealing gasket 15 and the second sealing gasket 25, the retaining device 1 is in a position referred to as the "compression position". Figures 1 to 3 illustrate the retaining device 1 in this compression position. The loading position is not shown for this first embodiment (but is shown in Figures 5, 7 and 9 for the other embodiments of the retaining device 100; 150; 200 described below).

[0152] In other words, the compression means 30A, 30B, 30C are configured to compress the first support part 10 and the second support part 20 from a loading position (allowing the introduction of the photovoltaic cell 5 into the holding device 1) to a compression position (in which the photovoltaic cell 5 is held in tight contact between the first sealing gasket 15 and the second sealing gasket 25).

[0153] According to a first alternative shown in [Fig.2], the compression means 30A, 30B comprise two pistons 30A, 30B positioned on either side of the first support part 10 and the second support part 20.

[0154] More particularly, the first piston 30A is positioned in contact with the second support face 10B of the first support part 10. The first piston 30A then exerts a pressure force directed towards the photovoltaic cell 5 so that the first sealing gasket 15 is in tight contact against the first face 5A of the photovoltaic cell 5.

[0155] The second piston 30B is positioned in contact with the fourth face 20B of the second support part 20. The second piston 30B then exerts a pressure force directed towards the photovoltaic cell 5 so that the second sealing gasket 25 is in tight contact against the second face 5B of the photovoltaic cell 5. The pressure forces exerted by the two pistons 30A, 30B are opposite and similar in standard so as to allow the retention of the photovoltaic cell 5 between the first sealing joint 15 and the second sealing joint 25.

[0156] According to a second alternative shown in [Fig.3], the compression means 30C include a load element 30C positioned on the second support part 20. This load element 30C is, for example, a mass positioned on the fourth support face 20B of the second support part 20 and whose weight corresponds to the pressure force exerted to hold the photovoltaic cell 5 between the first sealing joint 15 and the second sealing joint 25.

[0157] Alternatively, this load element is for example formed by stacking a plurality of support parts (the weight of which corresponds to the pressure force exerted to hold the photovoltaic cell 5 between the first sealing joint 15 and the second sealing joint 25).

[0158] In order to refine the positioning of the photovoltaic cell 5 between the first support part 10 and the second support part 20 (more particularly between the first sealing gasket 15 and the second sealing gasket 20), so as to ensure that this positioning is precise, the retaining device 1 also includes positioning means 40A, 40B, 40C, 40D for the photovoltaic cell 5 between the first support part 10 and the second support part 20. These positioning means 40A, 40B, 40C, 40D are configured to position the photovoltaic cell 5 between the first sealing gasket 15 and the second sealing gasket 25 so that the periphery of the photovoltaic cell 5 is opposite the first sealing gasket 15 and the second sealing gasket 25.

[0159] In other words, the positioning means 40A, 40B, 40C, 40D allow the positioning of the photovoltaic cell 5, in the retaining device 1, between the first support part 10 and the second support part 20 in order to align the periphery of the photovoltaic cell 5 with the first sealing gasket 15 and the second sealing gasket 25. In other words, the peripheral edge 5C of the photovoltaic cell 5 extends in line with the first sealing gasket 15 and the second sealing gasket 25.

[0160] According to a first embodiment shown in [Fig.4], the positioning means 40A, 40B, 40C, 40D are formed by guide elements 40A, 40B, 40C, 40D. Here, four guide elements 40A, 40B, 40C, 40D are provided, each guide element 40A, 40B, 40C, 40D being associated with one of the sides of the rectangular shape along which the contour of the first peripheral joint 15 (or the second peripheral joint 25) extends.

[0161] Each guide element 40A, 40B, 40C, 40D then comprises an end edge 41A, 41B, 41C, 41D intended to form a stop for one side of the perimeter edge. 5C pherical of the photovoltaic cell 5.

[0162] In practice, each guide element 40A, 40B, 40C, 40D is positioned so that the corresponding end edge 41A, 41B, 41C, 41D is positioned at the edge of the first sealing gasket 15. In other words, each end edge 41A, 41B, 41C, 41D is positioned along the periphery of the first sealing gasket 15. They then define a receiving frame for the photovoltaic cell 5 between the first support part 10 and the second support part 20. The receiving frame thus defined corresponds to the precise positioning required for the photovoltaic cell 5 to allow alignment of the periphery of the photovoltaic cell 5 with the first sealing gasket 15 and the second sealing gasket 25.

[0163] Alternatively, the guide elements could be formed from a single piece defining the receiving frame mentioned above.

[0164] This first embodiment corresponds to a manually loaded holding device 1.

[0165] According to a second embodiment shown (not shown), the positioning means comprise a robotic arm configured to precisely position the photovoltaic cell 5 between the first support part 10 and the second support part 20. More particularly, the robotic arm is configured to position the photovoltaic cell 5 between the first sealing gasket 15 and the second sealing gasket 25 in order to align the periphery of the photovoltaic cell 5 with the first sealing gasket 15 and the second sealing gasket 25. The robotic arm is therefore controlled to position the photovoltaic cell 5 such that the peripheral edge 5C of the photovoltaic cell 5 extends in line with the first sealing gasket 15 and the second sealing gasket 25.

[0166] Conventionally, the robotic arm is connected to a controller and at least one sensor (not shown). The controller commands the robotic arm so that the photovoltaic cell 5 is positioned precisely between the first sealing gasket 15 and the second sealing gasket 25 (and therefore between the first support section 10 and the second support section 20). To do this, the controller memorizes, for example, the position of the first support section 10 and the second support section 20 and commands the robotic arm to position the photovoltaic cell 5 so that its perimeter extends in line with the first sealing gasket 10 and the second sealing gasket 20. The associated sensor(s) acquire information on the positioning, refine it, and verify that it has been carried out according to the command.

[0167] The use of the robotic arm corresponds to a variant with automated loading of the holding device 1 according to the invention.

[0168] Advantageously, the retaining device 1 according to the invention allows to ensure that only the peripheral edge 5C of the photovoltaic cell 5 is accessible from outside the holding device 1 when the photovoltaic cell 5 is held there. This then ensures that only the peripheral edge 5C of the photovoltaic cell 5 can be exposed to the passivation process for the deposition of a passivation layer (the other parts of the photovoltaic cell 5 being isolated by the presence of the first sealing gasket 15 and the second sealing gasket 25 which form a barrier to the passivation process used).

[0169] The first embodiment of the retaining device 1 is shown in a vertical configuration in Figures 1 to 3. It is of course not limited to this vertical configuration and can, alternatively, be arranged in a horizontal configuration (as shown for the third embodiment in Figures 7 and 8).

[0170] In such a horizontal configuration, it can be envisaged that the first support part and the second support part are held by vertical supports (which then act as supports). The compression means according to the invention are configured in such a way that, of course, in such a horizontal configuration, the photovoltaic cell does not slip between the first and second sealing gaskets. It is held firmly between the two.

[0171] Figures 5 and 6 show a second embodiment of the retaining device 100 according to the invention. Figure 5 shows the retaining device 100 according to this second embodiment in a loading position. Figure 6 shows the retaining device 100 according to this second embodiment in a compression position.

[0172] This holding device 100 according to this second embodiment is based on the same principle as that described according to the first embodiment. The difference lies in the fact that, in this second embodiment, the holding device 100 allows for the holding of a plurality of photovoltaic cells 5. The photovoltaic cells 5 of this plurality all have essentially the same shapes and dimensions. The perimeter of these photovoltaic cells 5 is therefore substantially similar.

[0173] Only the differences of this second embodiment compared to the first embodiment are described in detail below.

[0174] As can be seen in Figures 5 and 6, the retaining device 100 comprises a plurality of support parts 110A, 110B, 120, a plurality of sealing joints 115 and compression means 130A, 130B.

[0175] Each sealing gasket 115 of the plurality of sealing gaskets has the same characteristics as the first sealing gasket 15 and the second gasket The sealing characteristics described for the first embodiment are therefore not described again here.

[0176] The plurality of support parts 110A, 110B, 120 includes end support parts 110A, 110B and intermediate support parts 120.

[0177] The two end support parts 110A, 110B respectively have the same characteristics as the first support part 10 and the second support part 20 described in the first embodiment of the retaining device 1. They are therefore not described in detail again here. As can be seen in Figures 5 and 6, these end support parts 110A, 110B are provided, only on one of their support faces HOC, 110D, with a sealing gasket 115.

[0178] On the contrary, the intermediate support parts 120 are provided with two sealing gaskets 115. Each intermediate support part 120 comprises, like the end support parts 110A, 110B, the first support part 10 and the second support part 20, two opposing support faces 120A, 120B.

[0179] As shown in Figures 5 and 6, each support face 120A, 120B is provided with a sealing gasket 115. In other words, each intermediate support part 120 is provided with two sealing gaskets 115, one on each support face 120A, 120B. As in the first embodiment, each sealing gasket 115 is configured to bear against one of the faces 5A, 5B of the relevant photovoltaic cell 5.

[0180] Finally, the intermediate support parts 120 have the same characteristics as the end support parts 110A, 110B, the first support part 10 and the second support part 20, except that they are provided, on their two support faces 120A, 120B, with a sealing gasket 115 configured to bear against one of the faces 5A, 5B of the photovoltaic cells 5.

[0181] In order to keep the plurality of photovoltaic cells 5 in the holding device 100 in a particular position (in particular for the deposition of a passivation layer described below), the holding device 100 also includes the compression means 130A, 130B.

[0182] These compression means 130A, 130B are similar to those described in the first embodiment but adapted to the configuration of the second embodiment with a plurality of support parts 110A, 110B, 120 and a plurality of sealing joints 115 and so as to maintain a plurality of photovoltaic cells 5.

[0183] For example, in the case where the compression means 130A, 130B comprise two pistons 130A, 130B, these two pistons 130A, 130B are positioned on either side of the two end support parts 110A, 110B.

[0184] More specifically, each of the pistons 130A, 130B is positioned in contact with the free support face (i.e., without a sealing gasket) of the corresponding end support portion 110A, 110B. The two pistons 130A, 130B then exert opposing and similar pressure forces so as to hold the photovoltaic cells 5 in tight contact against the relevant sealing gaskets 115.

[0185] The holding device 100 according to this second embodiment also includes positioning means (not shown in the figures). Here, too, these positioning means are similar to those described previously for the first embodiment, except that they are also adapted to the configuration of the second embodiment with a plurality of support portions 110A, 110B, 120 and a plurality of sealing gaskets 115, and so as to hold a plurality of photovoltaic cells 5.

[0186] For example, a plurality of sets of guide elements may be provided, each set being associated with the positioning of one of the photovoltaic cells 5 of the plurality of photovoltaic cells 5 to be positioned.

[0187] Figures 7 and 8 represent a third embodiment of the retaining device 150 according to the invention. Figure 7 shows the retaining device 100 according to this third embodiment in a loading position. Figure 8 shows the retaining device 100 according to this third embodiment in a compression position.

[0188] This support device 150 according to this third embodiment is based on the same principle as that described according to the second embodiment. The difference lies in the fact that, in this third embodiment, the support device 150 is arranged in a horizontal configuration.

[0189] The difference with the second embodiment described above lies in the fact that, in the loading position ([Fig.7]), the holding device 150 includes a support means 155 for holding the photovoltaic cells 5 during their loading in the holding device 150.

[0190] This support means 155 includes, for example, a rail configured to come against the support parts 110A, 110B, 120 so as to retain the photovoltaic cells 5 in the holding device 150 during their charging.

[0191] Alternatively, this support means 155 can be formed by a portion of the guide elements assembly. This portion of the guide elements assembly is, for example, positioned on the side of the retaining device 150 from which the inserted photovoltaic cells 5 might fall. This portion of the guide elements assembly then forms a stop for one side of the peripheral edge 5C of each photovoltaic cell 5 inserted in the retaining device 150.

[0192] This support means 155 is, for example, removable. It can, for example, be mounted movably on the retaining device 150 between a position of use, during loading the photovoltaic cells 5 into the holding device 150, so as to form a stop for them, and a holding position in which the photovoltaic cells 5 are held in tight contact between the sealing gaskets 115. In this holding position, the support means 155 is for example positioned away from the support parts 110A, 110B, 120 (so as not to be in contact with them).

[0193] Whereas in the other embodiments described in this application, no spacing constraint is imposed between the support parts, the horizontal arrangement of this third embodiment requires an additional condition.

[0194] Indeed, in order to prevent the photovoltaic cells from tipping over during charging (which could damage them), the distance d between two adjacent support parts 110A, 110B, 120 is limited. This distance d is, for example, less than 10 times the thickness of the photovoltaic cells 5. Preferably, this distance d is less than 5 times the thickness of the photovoltaic cells 5.

[0195] Figures 9 and 10 represent a fourth embodiment of the retaining device 200 according to the invention. Figure 9 shows the retaining device 200 according to this fourth embodiment in a loading position. Figure 10 shows the retaining device 200 according to this fourth embodiment in a compression position.

[0196] This retaining device 200 according to this fourth embodiment is based on the same principle as that described according to the second embodiment. The difference lies in the fact that, in this fourth embodiment, the compression means 230A, 230B are coupled to a spring support system 250. This spring support system 250 is configured to dampen the compression movement and facilitate the return to the loading position when the compression means 230A, 230B no longer exert the compressive force on the plurality of support parts 210A, 210B, 220.

[0197] The spring support system 250 here comprises four uprights 251, 252, 253, 254 extending between the two end parts 210A, 210B. Here, the four uprights 251, 252, 253, 254 cooperate with the support parts 210A, 210B, 220.

[0198] For this purpose, in this fourth embodiment, the support parts 210A, 210B, 220 have an extension part 241, 242, 243, 244 at their corners in order to cooperate with the spring support system 250 ([Fig. 11]).

[0199] More specifically here, as can be seen in [Fig. 11], each support portion 210A, 210B, 220 comprises, at each of its corners, a material extension, the extension portion 241, 242, 243, 244. Each extension portion 241, 242, 243, 244 comprises an opening 241A, 242A, 243A, 244A, at through which extends the amount 251, 252, 253, 254 concerned.

[0200] As can be seen in Figures 9 to 11, the spring support system also includes a plurality of springs 260. More specifically, each upright 251, 252, 253, 254 is equipped with at least one spring 260.

[0201] Here, the spring support system 250 comprises a plurality of springs 260. Each spring 260 is positioned between two adjacent support parts 210A, 210B, 220. More specifically, as can be seen in [Fig. 11], the ends of each spring 260 bear on the extension parts 241, 242, 243, 244. In practice, each end of each spring bears on the extension parts 241, 242, 243, 244, at the periphery of the relevant opening 241A, 242A, 243A, 244A.

[0202] Each spring 260 is a compression spring, with a stiffness between 0.2 and 10 N / mm (Newton per millimeter).

[0203] Advantageously, in this fourth embodiment, thanks to this spring support system 250 (and the plurality of springs 260), each support part 210A, 210B, 220 slides along the uprights 251, 252, 253, 254, under the action of the plurality of springs 260. More specifically, each support part 210A, 210B, 220 slides along the uprights 251, 252, 253, 254 between the loading position and the compression position of the retaining device 200. In the loading position, the plurality of springs 260 is in its rest position, so the photovoltaic cells 5 can be inserted between the support parts 210A, 210B, 220. In the compression position, the plurality of springs 260 is compressed, allowing each photovoltaic cell 5 to be held tightly between the two relevant sealing joints 215.

[0204] The holding device 200 according to this fourth embodiment also includes positioning means 240A, 240B, 240C.

[0205] As shown in [Fig. 11], these positioning means 240A, 240B, 240C are, for example, formed here by the guide elements 240A, 240B, 240C as described previously in the first embodiment (only three of the four guide elements are shown in [Fig. 11]).

[0206] The difference with the first embodiment lies in the shape of these guide elements 240A, 240B, 240C. Indeed, here they are shaped to take into account the extension portions 241, 242, 243, 244. As shown in [Fig. 1 1], the guide elements 240A, 240B, 240C, 240D are truncated at the extension portions 241, 242, 243, 244 so as to be complementary in shape to them. This ensures that the end edge 245A, 245B, 245C can form a stop for one side of the peripheral edge 5C of each photovoltaic cell 5 despite the presence of these extension portions 241, 242, 243, 244.

[0207] Thus, thanks to their shape adapted to the configuration of this fourth embodiment (with the presence of the uprights 251, 252, 253, 254 and the extension parts 241, 242, 243, 244), each guide element 240A, 240B, 240C is positioned such that the corresponding end edge 245A, 245B, 245C is positioned at the edge of the sealing joints 215. In other words, each end edge 245A, 245B, 245C is positioned along the perimeter of the sealing joints 215, so as to define a receiving frame for each photovoltaic cell 5 (each receiving frame thus defined corresponds to the precise positioning required for the photovoltaic cell 5 to allow alignment of the perimeter of the photovoltaic cell 5 with the sealing joints). 215 as previously described).

[0208] Regardless of the embodiment of the holding device, it holds the photovoltaic cell(s) 5 in such a way that only the peripheral edge 5C of the photovoltaic cell 5 is accessible from outside the holding device when the photovoltaic cell 5 is held there. This ensures that only the peripheral edge 5C of the photovoltaic cells 5 is exposed to the passivation agents for the deposition of the passivation layer (the other parts of the photovoltaic cells 5 being isolated by the presence of the seals which form a barrier to the passivation agents used).

[0209] Furthermore, the elements forming the retaining device have the characteristics necessary to withstand the passivation step. In other words, the various elements of the retaining device have, in particular, resistance properties to high temperatures (typically up to 200°C) and low permeability to the passivation species used for the passivation of the photovoltaic cell described below.

[0210] The present invention also relates to a device 50 for depositing thin films on at least one photovoltaic cell 5.

[0211] Figure 12 shows an example of the thin-film deposition device 50 according to the present invention. This device 50 allows, in particular, the deposition of at least one passivation layer on the photovoltaic cells 5.

[0212] As shown in this figure, this thin film deposition device 50 comprises a thin film deposition chamber 60, the holding device 1; 100; 150; 200 as described above equipped with at least one photovoltaic cell 5 and injection means 70 of at least one passivation species.

[0213] The enclosure 60 for depositing thin films (and in particular at least one passivation layer) includes, for example, a set of walls for delimiting a housing 65 for the holding device 1; 100; 150; 200. This housing The receiving chamber 65 is also the one in which the passivation species are introduced in such a way as to lead to the formation of passivation layers on the photovoltaic cells 5 (and in particular on the peripheral edge 5C of each photovoltaic cell 5). This thin-film deposition chamber 60 is, for example, a vacuum deposition chamber.

[0214] This thin film deposition enclosure 60 is dimensioned to accommodate the holding device 1; 100; 150; 250, as described above, equipped with one or more photovoltaic cells 5.

[0215] Furthermore, in order not to be damaged during the passivation process (i.e. during the injection of the passivation species so as to form the passivation layers), the internal walls of the thin film deposition chamber 60 have in particular properties of resistance to high temperatures (up to 200°C typically) and low permeability to the passivation species used during this passivation process.

[0216] In order to enable the formation of passivation layers on the photovoltaic cells 5, the thin-film deposition device 50 includes means for injecting at least one passivation species. Preferably, this passivation species is in the form of a gas.

[0217] In the present invention, a passivation layer is formed, for example, by atomic layer deposition (ALD). According to this method, different precursor gases are introduced into the thin-film deposition chamber 60 and directed to the different areas (here, the peripheral edge 5C of each photovoltaic cell 5) on which one or more atomic layers are to be deposited.

[0218] In practice, an atomic layer is formed on a relevant area (i.e., here the peripheral edge 5C of each photovoltaic cell 5) by exposing this area to the flow of a first precursor gas injected into the thin-film deposition chamber 60 by the injection means 70. This first precursor gas reacts with the terminations of the relevant area and forms a monolayer containing other terminations (reactive groups). A second precursor gas (also injected by the injection means 70) is then introduced and reacts with the terminations of the monolayer formed (following the injection of the first precursor gas) so as to form the desired passivation layer.

[0219] In practice, the injection means 70 are, for example, formed by an injection head (not shown) allowing the introduction of gas into the thin-film deposition chamber 60. The deposition conditions (such as the position of the injection head, the gas flow rates, the precursor concentration, and the temperature) and the dimensions of the injection head are advantageously chosen so that the passivation layer is formed at the peripheral edge 5C of each photovoltaic cell 5 held in the holding device 1; 100; 150; 200.

[0220] Preferably, the material of the passivation layer is, for example, alumina (Al2O3), silicon dioxide (SiO2), silicon nitride (Si3N4) or hydrogenated amorphous silicon (a-Six:H).

[0221] The thickness of the passivation layer is on the order of a few nanometers (nm) to a few tens of nanometers. For example, in the case of alumina, the thickness of the passivation layer is greater than 5 nm, preferably between 5 and 15 nm. In the case of hydrogenated amorphous silicon nitride, the thickness of the passivation layer is preferably between 5 and 15 nm.

[0222] Alternatively, the passivation agent may be in the form of a vaporized liquid solution. This could be, for example, a vaporized polymer liquid solution. The polymer in this case is a fluoropolymer such as Nafion™.

[0223] Thanks to the holding device 1; 100; 150; 200 described above, only the peripheral edge 5C of each held photovoltaic cell 5 is exposed to the passivation species injected into the thin-film deposition chamber 60. Thus, advantageously, the passivation layer is formed only on the peripheral edge 5C of each photovoltaic cell 5 held in the holding device 1; 100; 150; 200 (when the passivation species injected into the thin-film deposition chamber 60 are flush with the peripheral edge 5C of each photovoltaic cell 5). Locating the deposit only on the peripheral edge (and not on all faces of each photovoltaic cell) facilitates the subsequent interconnection step of the photovoltaic cells. This, in turn, prevents the degradation of the photovoltaic cells' electrical performance.

[0224] Alternatively, the passivation layer can be deposited by other methods. For example, physical vapor deposition (PVD) or chemical vapor deposition (CVD) methods can be used.

[0225] Alternatively, a chemical liquid phase deposition method can be used.

[0226] Alternatively, plasma-based deposition methods can also be used. In such a case, the materials used, particularly for the support parts, must be suitable for conductivity. Graphite, in particular, can be used for this purpose.

[0227] Advantageously, in order to define a directional flow around the holding device 1; 100; 150; 200 in the receiving housing 65 of the enclosure 60 of the storage thin layers, the latter also includes an 80 pumping system.

[0228] This pumping system 80 is configured to allow the circulation of the passivation species around the support device 1; 100; 150; 200, according to a directional flow. The directional flow is defined here as from one end to the other of the support device 1; 100; 150; 200. For example, the circulation of the passivation species takes place, within the thin film deposition chamber 60, from one of the end support sections to the other.

[0229] The directional flow is therefore imposed, in the thin film deposition chamber 60, between the introduction of the passivation species, by the injection means 70, and the aspiration generated by the pumping system 80. This makes it possible in particular to ensure a similar exposure to the passivation species for all the photovoltaic cells 5, over their entire peripheral edge 5C.

[0230] Method for retaining at least one photovoltaic cell

[0231] The present invention also relates to a method of holding at least one photovoltaic cell 5 in the holding device 1; 100; 150; 200 (for then depositing a passivation layer on this photovoltaic cell 5).

[0232] The holding method first comprises a step of supplying at least two support parts. These are, for example, the first support part 10 and the second support part 20 described previously. These support parts are fitted with sealing gaskets formed as previously described.

[0233] The holding method then includes a step of positioning the photovoltaic cell 5 between the two support parts, and more particularly between the two respective joints formed on the two support parts concerned.

[0234] Optionally, this positioning step may include a substep for adjusting the position of the photovoltaic cell 5 to ensure precise positioning. This substep is implemented by the positioning means described above.

[0235] The holding method finally includes a step of compressing a stack formed by the two support parts between which the photovoltaic cell 5 is positioned so as to hold the photovoltaic cell 5 in tight contact against the two respective sealing joints.

[0236] In the case of an automated implementation of the holding process, the positioning step includes positioning the first support part, then the photovoltaic cell (on the first sealing gasket of the first positioned support part), and then the second support part (with the second sealing gasket in contact with the photovoltaic cell). In this case, this positioning is carried out, for example, by a robotic arm that successively positions each of the first support part, the photovoltaic cell, and the second part of support.

[0237] Method for passivating at least one photovoltaic cell

[0238] The present invention finally relates to a method of passivating at least one photovoltaic cell 5.

[0239] In general, this passivation process comprises the following steps: - holding the photovoltaic cell 5 in the holding device 1; 100; 150; 200 according to the holding process, - positioning of the holding device 1; 100; 150; 200 equipped with the photovoltaic cell 5 in the housing 65 of the enclosure 60 for thin film deposition, - injection of at least one passivation species into the thin film deposition chamber 60 so as to form the passivation layer on the peripheral edge 5C of the photovoltaic cell 5 when the injected passivation species is flush with this peripheral edge 5C.

[0240] Thanks to the holding device 1; 100; 150; 200 as described above, when the photovoltaic cell 5 is held in the holding device 1, only the peripheral edge 5C of the photovoltaic cell 5 is visible and accessible from outside the holding device 1 (into which the photovoltaic cell 5 is inserted). In other words, the first sealing gasket 15 and the second sealing gasket 25 isolate the first face 5A and the second face 5B of the photovoltaic cell 5, placed in the retaining device 1, from the outside of the retaining device 1. Thus, when injecting the passivation species into the thin film deposition chamber 60, the passivation layer only forms on the peripheral edge 5C of the photovoltaic cell 5 (when the injected passivation species touches this peripheral edge 5C and reacts with this peripheral edge).

[0241] The present invention is described for subcells but can also be implemented with full-size photovoltaic cells. In particular, for advanced cell technologies such as heterojunction (HET) cells, it may be useful to improve the existing passivation of the cell edges by forming a new passivation layer.

Claims

Claims

1. Holding device (1; 100; 150; 200) for at least one photovoltaic cell (5) to form a passivation layer on a portion of said photovoltaic cell (5), the photovoltaic cell (5) comprising a first face (5A), a second face (5B), opposite said first face (5A), and a peripheral edge (5C) connecting the first face (5A) and the second face (5B), the holding device (1; 100; 150; 200) comprising: - a first support portion (10; 110A, 110B, 120; 210A, 210B, 220) comprising a first support face (10A) and a second support face (10B) opposite said first support face (10A), the first support face (10A) being provided with a first seal (15 ; 115; 215) shaped along a periphery of the photovoltaic cell (5), - a second support part (20; 110A, 110B, 120; 210A, 210B, 220) comprising a third support face (20A;110D) and a fourth support face (20B) opposite said third support face (20A; 110D), the third support face (20A; 110D) being provided with a second seal (25; 115; 215) shaped around the periphery of the photovoltaic cell (5), and - compression means (30A, 30B; 30C; 130A, 130B; 230A, 230B) configured to keep the photovoltaic cell (5) in tight contact against the first seal (15; 115; 215) and against the second seal (25; 115; 215).;

2. Holding device (1; 100; 150; 200) according to claim 1, also comprising positioning means (40A, 40B, 40C, 40D; 240A, 240B, 240C) of the photovoltaic cell (5) between the first support part (10; 110A, 110B, 120; 210A, 210B, 220) and the second support part (20; 110A, 110B, 120; 210A, 210B, 220).

3. Holding device (1; 100; 150; 200) according to claim 2, wherein the positioning means (40A, 40B, 40C, 40D; 240A, 240B, 240C) comprise guide elements positioned at the edge of the first seal (15; 115; 215) and / or the second seal (25; 115; 215) so as to position the periphery of the photovoltaic cell (5) opposite the first seal (15; 115; 215) and the second seal (25; 115; 215).

4. Holding device (1; 100; 150; 200) according to claim 2 or 3, wherein the positioning means comprise at least one robotic arm configured to position the photovoltaic cell (5) between the first support part (10; 110A, 110B, 120; 210A, 210B, 220) and the second support part (20; 110A, 110B, 120; 210A, 210B, 220) so that the periphery of the photovoltaic cell (5) is positioned opposite the first seal (15; 115; 215) and the second seal (25; 115; 215).

5. Holding device (1; 100; 150; 200) according to any one of claims 1 to 4, wherein the first support face (10A; 110C) of the first support part (10; 110A, 110B, 120; 210A, 210B, 220) comprises a groove (16) shaped to fix the first seal (15; 115; 215) on the first support part (10; 110A, 110B, 120; 210A, 210B, 220).

6. Holding device (1; 100; 150; 200) according to any one of claims 1 to 5, wherein the third support face (20A; 110D) of the second support part (20; 110A, 110B, 120; 210A, 210B, 220) comprises a groove (26) shaped to fix the second seal (25; 115; 215) on the second support part (20; 110A, 110B, 120; 210A, 210B, 220).

7. Holding device (1; 100; 150; 200) according to any one of claims 1 to 6, wherein the compression means (30A, 30B; 30C; 130A, 130B; 230A, 230B) are configured to exert a pressure force greater than 2 Newtons, preferably between 2 and 10 Newtons, to hold the photovoltaic cell (5) in tight contact against the first seal (15; 115; 215) and against the second seal (25; 115; 215).

8. Holding device (1; 100; 150; 200) according to any one of claims 1 to 7, wherein the compression means (30A, 30B; 130A, 130B; 230A, 230B) comprise two pistons positioned on either side of the first support part (10; 110A, 110B, 120; 210A, 210B, 220) and the second support part (20; 110A, 110B, 120; 210A, 210B, 220).

9. A holding device (1; 100; 150; 200) according to any one of claims 1 to 8 taken in dependence on claim 7, wherein the compression means (30C) comprise a load element positioned on the second support portion (20; 110A, 110B, 120; 210A, 210B, 220) so as to exert said force of pressure.

10. A holding device (1; 100; 150; 200) according to any one of claims 1 to 9, wherein the first seal (15; 115; 215) and the second seal (25; 115; 215) are formed from a flexible polymer material.

11. Holding device (100; 150; 200) according to any one of claims 1 to 10, also comprising: - a third support part (120; 220) comprising a fifth support face and a sixth support face opposite said fifth support face, the fifth support face being provided with a third seal (115; 215) shaped according to another periphery of another photovoltaic cell (5), said other periphery of the other photovoltaic cell (5) being similar to the periphery of the photovoltaic cell (5), said other photovoltaic cell (5) comprising another first face, another second face, opposite said other first face, and another peripheral edge connecting the other first face and the other second face, the fourth support face of the second support part being provided with a fourth seal (115;215) shaped around the perimeter of the other photovoltaic cell (5), the compression means (130A, 130B; 230A, 230B) being configured to hold the other photovoltaic cell (5) in tight contact against the third seal (115; 215) and against the fourth seal (115; 215).;

12. Device (50) for depositing thin layers, and in particular a passivation layer, on at least one part of a photovoltaic cell (5) comprising: - a holding device (1; 100; 150; 200) according to any one of claims 1 to 11, - at least one photovoltaic cell (5) positioned in the holding device (1; 100; 150; 200), - an enclosure (60) for depositing thin layers comprising a side wall delimiting a receiving housing (65) for the holding device (1; 100; 150; 200) in which said photovoltaic cell (5) is positioned, and - means (70) for injecting at least one type of passivation making it possible to form a passivation layer on the peripheral edge (5C) of the photovoltaic cell (5) when the type of passivation flush with the peripheral edge (5C) of the photovoltaic cell (5).

13. Device (50) for depositing thin layers according to claim 12, also comprising means (80) for pumping the passivation species configured to allow the circulation of the passivation species around the holding device (1; 100; 150; 200) according to a directional flow.

14. Method for holding at least one photovoltaic cell (5) comprising a first face (5A), a second face (5B), opposite said first face (5A), and a peripheral edge (5C) connecting the first face (5A) and the second face (5B), the method comprising steps of: - providing a first support portion (10; 110A, 110B, 120; 210A, 210B, 220) comprising a first support face (10A; 110C) and a second support face opposite said first support face (10A; 110C), the first support face (10A; 110C) being provided with a first seal (15; 115; 215) shaped along a periphery of the photovoltaic cell (5), - providing a second support portion (20; 110A, 110B, 120; 210A, 210B, 220) comprising a third support face (20A; 110D) and a fourth support face opposite said third support face (20A; 110D), the third support face (20A;110D) being provided with a second seal (25; 115; 215) shaped around the periphery of the photovoltaic cell (5), - positioning the photovoltaic cell (5) between the first support part (10; 110A, 110B, 120; 210A, 210B, 220) and the second support part (20; 110A, 110B, 120; 210A, 210B, 220), and - compression of a stack formed by the first support part (10; 110A, 110B, 120; 210A, 210B, 220), the photovoltaic cell (5) and the second support part (20; 110A, 110B, 120; 210A, 210B, 220) so as to keep the photovoltaic cell (5) in tight contact against the first seal (15; 115; 215) and against the second seal (15; 115; 215).;

15. A holding method according to claim 14, wherein the positioning step comprises successively positioning the first support portion (10; 110A, 110B, 120; 210A, 210B, 220), the photovoltaic cell (5) and the second support portion (20; 110A, 110B, 120; 210A, 210B, 220).

16. Method for passivating at least one photovoltaic cell (5) including steps of: - holding the photovoltaic cell (5) in a holding device (1; 100; 150; 200) according to a holding method according to claim 14 or 15, - positioning the holding device (1; 100; 150; 200) provided with the photovoltaic cell (5) in a thin-film deposition enclosure (60), and -injection of at least one passivation species into the thin-film deposition enclosure (60) so as to form a passivation layer on a peripheral edge (5C) of the photovoltaic cell (5) when the passivation species is flush with the peripheral edge (5C) of the photovoltaic cell (5).

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