Method and apparatus for manufacturing solar cell panels

Abstract

To provide a method and apparatus for manufacturing solar cell panels that can improve the positioning accuracy of solar cell groups.SOLUTION: A rotatable holding unit 3 is used to hold a solar cell group 90. The solar cell group 90 held by the holding unit 3 is transported above a sheet 99. The solar cell group 90 is positioned above the sheet 99. The holding unit 3 has an engaging portion 60 that is spaced apart from a rotation axis A of the holding unit 3. In a process of positioning the solar cell group 90, an engaged portion 29 corresponding to the engaging portion 60 is engaged with the engaging portion 60, thereby restricting movement of the holding unit 3 in a rotation direction θ of the holding unit 3.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 6

Description

[Technical field]

[0001] The present disclosure relates to a method and an apparatus for manufacturing a solar panel. [Background technology]

[0002] In recent years, miniaturization and mass production of artificial satellites have been progressing. Miniaturized and mass-produced artificial satellites are used, for example, in satellite constellations. Artificial satellites have solar cell panels. The solar cell panels used in artificial satellites are required to be lightweight and capable of supplying large power. For this reason, along with the mass production of artificial satellites, mass production of solar cell panels that are lightweight and capable of supplying large power is required. Therefore, there is a demand for a method for manufacturing solar cell panels with high efficiency and a manufacturing device capable of manufacturing solar cell panels with high efficiency. Specifically, there is a demand for a solar cell panel manufacturing method and a solar cell panel manufacturing device that are capable of manufacturing solar cell panels of uniform quality in a short construction period.

[0003] When manufacturing a solar panel, a plurality of solar cell groups are arranged on a sheet. In the solar panel used for an artificial satellite, the plurality of solar cell groups are arranged at narrower intervals than in a general solar panel. In other words, in the solar panel used for an artificial satellite, the plurality of solar cell groups are arranged at higher density than in a general solar panel.

[0004] When manufacturing a solar panel, a solar cell group may be rotated around a straight line extending in a direction perpendicular to the surface of a sheet on which the solar cell group is arranged. The solar cell group is positioned in the rotation direction of the solar cell group. If the position of the solar cell group is misaligned in the rotation direction, the ideal position of the solar cell group on the sheet will differ from the actual position of the solar cell group. In particular, the amount of misalignment of the solar cell group increases as it moves away from the rotation axis. As a result, each of the multiple solar cell groups may interfere with each other. Therefore, when arranging the solar cell group on the sheet, it is required to position the solar cell group with high precision in the rotation direction.

[0005] Japanese Patent Laid-Open Publication No. 2010-34134 (Patent Document 1) describes a manufacturing apparatus for a concentrating solar power generation device. The manufacturing apparatus for a concentrating solar power generation device described in Patent Document 1 has a rotation control mechanism. [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0006] [Patent Document 1] JP 2010-34134 A Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0007] According to the manufacturing device for concentrating photovoltaic power generation devices described in the above Patent Document 1, a rotation control mechanism controls the rotation of a lens group plate. Mechanisms for controlling rotation with high precision include, for example, a high-resolution motor, a reducer with small backlash, and a robot that can be driven with high precision. However, even if these mechanisms are used, it is difficult to position the solar cell group with high precision in the rotation direction.

[0008] The present disclosure has been made in view of the above, and has an object to provide a solar cell panel manufacturing method and solar cell panel manufacturing apparatus that are capable of improving the accuracy of positioning a solar cell group. [Means for solving the problem]

[0009] The method for manufacturing a solar cell panel according to the present disclosure includes the following steps: Applying an adhesive to an adhesive surface of a solar cell group having a light-receiving surface and an adhesive surface opposite the light-receiving surface. After the step of applying the adhesive to the adhesive surface, holding the solar cell group using a rotatable holding part. Transporting the solar cell group held by the holding part above the sheet. Positioning the solar cell group above the sheet. Contacting the solar cell group with the sheet at the adhesive surface to bond the solar cell group and the sheet using the adhesive. The holding part has an engaging part that is spaced from the rotation axis of the holding part. In the step of positioning the solar cell group, movement of the holding part in the rotation direction of the holding part is restricted by engaging an engaged part corresponding to the engaging part with the engaging part. Effect of the Invention

[0010] According to the solar cell panel manufacturing method of the present disclosure, the engaged portion is engaged with the engaging portion to restrict movement of the holding portion in the rotation direction of the holding portion. Therefore, it is possible to prevent the position of the holding portion and the solar cell group from shifting in the rotation direction. This makes it possible to provide a solar cell panel manufacturing method and a solar cell panel manufacturing apparatus that can improve the accuracy of positioning the solar cell group. [Brief description of the drawings]

[0011] [Figure 1] 1 is a schematic perspective view showing a configuration of a solar cell panel manufacturing apparatus according to an embodiment of the present invention. [Diagram 2] 1 is an enlarged schematic view showing a configuration of a solar cell panel manufacturing apparatus according to an embodiment of the present invention. [Diagram 3] 4 is a schematic side view showing the configuration of a holding unit and a position correction unit according to the embodiment. FIG. [Figure 4] 1 is a schematic cross-sectional view showing a configuration of a solar cell panel manufacturing apparatus according to an embodiment of the present invention. [Diagram 5] 1 is a block diagram showing a configuration of a solar cell panel manufacturing apparatus according to an embodiment of the present invention; [Figure 6] 1 is a flow diagram illustrating a schematic diagram of a method for manufacturing a solar cell panel according to an embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 7] FIG. 11 is a cross-sectional view illustrating a step of supplying a solar cell group. [Figure 8] FIG. 11 is a schematic plan view showing a step of supplying a solar cell group. [Figure 9] 11 is a schematic plan view showing a process in which a holding portion holds a solar cell group. FIG. [Figure 10] FIG. 13 is a schematic perspective view showing a step of transporting a solar cell group above a sheet. [Figure 11] 11 is a schematic perspective view showing a process of rotating the solar cell group along the rotation direction. FIG. [Figure 12] FIG. 11 is a first schematic perspective view showing a step of engaging the holding portion with the engaged portion. [Figure 13] 13 is a second perspective schematic view showing a step of engaging the holding portion with the engaged portion. FIG. [Figure 14] 1 is a schematic plan view showing a configuration of a solar cell panel according to an embodiment of the present invention; DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

[0012] Hereinafter, embodiments of the present disclosure will be described with reference to the drawings. In the following drawings, the same or corresponding parts are designated by the same reference numerals, and the description thereof will not be repeated.

[0013] <Configuration of solar panel manufacturing equipment>

[0014] First, the configuration of a solar cell panel manufacturing apparatus 100 according to the present embodiment will be described with reference to FIGS.

[0015] As shown in Fig. 1, solar cell panel manufacturing apparatus 100 mainly includes a first stage 4, a transport unit 6, an alignment unit 1, and a head unit 7. The first stage 4 supports a sheet 99. The transport unit 6 moves the alignment unit 1 and the head unit 7. The alignment unit 1 moves the head unit 7. The head unit 7 holds a solar cell group 90.

[0016] The first stage 4 has a first support surface 41. The first support surface 41 is a surface on which the sheet 99 is placed. The first support surface 41 is flat. The first support surface 41 extends along a plane perpendicular to the vertical direction Z. The vertical direction Z is the direction in which a rotation axis A, which will be described later, extends.

[0017] The transport unit 6 has a support unit 68 and a first drive unit 69 (see FIG. 5). The support unit 68 is spaced apart from the first stage 4. In the vertical direction Z, the support unit 68 is provided above the first stage 4. A direction that is parallel to the vertical direction Z and extends from the support unit 68 to the first stage 4 is defined as a first direction 101. Conversely, a direction that is parallel to the vertical direction Z and extends from the first stage 4 to the support unit 68 is defined as a second direction 102. The upward direction is the second direction 102.

[0018] The shape of the support part 68 is, for example, a rectangular parallelepiped shape. The support part 68 extends along a direction perpendicular to the up-down direction Z. The direction in which the support part 68 extends is the left-right direction X. The direction perpendicular to each of the up-down direction Z and the left-right direction X is the front-rear direction Y. The first drive part 69 is connected to the support part 68. The first drive part 69 can move the support part 68 along the front-rear direction Y. From another perspective, the transport part 6 can move the alignment part 1 and the head part 7 along the front-rear direction Y. The first drive part 69 may be capable of moving the support part 68 along each of the left-right direction X and the up-down direction Z. From another perspective, the transport part 6 may be capable of moving the alignment part 1 and the head part 7 along each of the left-right direction X and the up-down direction Z.

[0019] As shown in FIG. 1 and FIG. 2, the alignment unit 1 is attached to a support unit 68. The alignment unit 1 is supported by the support unit 68. The alignment unit 1 can move the head unit 7 along each of the left-right direction X, the front-back direction Y, and the up-down direction Z. In other words, the alignment unit 1 can move the head unit 7 along three orthogonal axes. The alignment unit 1 has a second drive unit 12, a third drive unit 13, and a fourth drive unit 14.

[0020] The second driving unit 12 is attached to the support unit 68. The second driving unit 12 is capable of moving the third driving unit 13 along the front-rear direction Y. From another perspective, the second driving unit 12 is capable of moving the head unit 7 along the front-rear direction Y. The second driving unit 12 is, for example, a linear motion mechanism such as an electric actuator or an air cylinder.

[0021] The third driving unit 13 is attached to the second driving unit 12. The third driving unit 13 is capable of moving the fourth driving unit 14 along the left-right direction X. From another perspective, the third driving unit 13 is capable of moving the head unit 7 along the left-right direction X. The third driving unit 13 is, for example, a linear motion mechanism such as an electric actuator and an air cylinder.

[0022] The fourth driving unit 14 is attached to the third driving unit 13. The fourth driving unit 14 is capable of moving the head unit 7 along the vertical direction Z. The fourth driving unit 14 is, for example, a linear motion mechanism such as an electric actuator or an air cylinder.

[0023] As shown in FIG. 1 and FIG. 2, the head unit 7 is attached to the fourth driving unit 14. The head unit 7 has a connection unit 5, a rotation driving unit 2, a holding unit 3, a bearing 27, and a position correction unit 20. The connection unit 5 is attached to the fourth driving unit 14. The connection unit 5 has, for example, a plate-like shape. The connection unit 5 supports each of the rotation driving unit 2 and the position correction unit 20. The connection unit 5 connects the rotation driving unit 2 and the position correction unit 20.

[0024] The rotation drive unit 2 is attached to the connection unit 5. The rotation drive unit 2 is capable of rotating the holding unit 3 about a rotation axis A. The rotation direction of the holding unit 3 is defined as a rotation direction θ. The rotation drive unit 2 has a motor 19 and a shaft coupling 23.

[0025] The motor 19 is attached to the connection portion 5. The motor 19 has a main body portion 18 and a first shaft portion 15. The main body portion 18 is attached to the connection portion 5. The main body portion 18 is capable of rotating the first shaft portion 15 about a rotation axis A.

[0026] The first shaft portion 15 is attached to the main body portion 18. The first shaft portion 15 extends from the main body portion 18 in a first direction 101. The shape of the first shaft portion 15 is, for example, cylindrical. The first shaft portion 15 extends along the up-down direction Z. The central axis of the first shaft portion 15 may substantially overlap with the rotation axis A.

[0027] The shaft coupling 23 is attached to the first shaft portion 15. The shaft coupling 23 surrounds the first shaft portion 15. The shaft coupling 23 has an annular shape. The shaft coupling 23 transmits the rotational motion generated by the motor 19 to the holder 3. The shaft coupling 23 surrounds the rotation axis A.

[0028] As shown in Figs. 1 and 2, the holding portion 3 is provided in a first direction 101 relative to the motor 19. The holding portion 3 is attached to a shaft coupling 23. From another perspective, the shaft coupling 23 connects the motor 19 and the holding portion 3. The holding portion 3 is spaced from the connection portion 5. The holding portion 3 is spaced from the first stage 4. The holding portion 3 holds a solar cell group 90. The holding portion 3 has a second shaft portion 16, a base portion 39, a plurality of suction portions 30, a first camera 51, a second camera 52, and an engagement portion 60.

[0029] As shown in FIG. 2, the second shaft portion 16 is attached to the shaft coupling 23. From another perspective, the shaft coupling 23 connects the first shaft portion 15 and the second shaft portion 16. The second shaft portion 16 is surrounded by the shaft coupling 23. The second shaft portion 16 is provided in the first direction 101 relative to the first shaft portion 15. The second shaft portion 16 has a cylindrical shape. The second shaft portion 16 extends along the up-down direction Z. The central axis of the second shaft portion 16 may substantially overlap with the rotation axis A.

[0030] The base portion 39 is connected to the second shaft portion 16. The base portion 39 has, for example, a plate-like shape. The base portion 39 has a first surface 71, a second surface 72, a first end surface 21, and a second end surface 22. At the first surface 71, the base portion 39 is connected to the second shaft portion 16. The second shaft portion 16 extends from the first surface 71 along the second direction 102.

[0031] The first surface 71 extends along a plane perpendicular to the up-down direction Z. When viewed in the up-down direction Z, the shape of the first surface 71 is, for example, rectangular. The second surface 72 is provided on the opposite side of the first surface 71. The second surface 72 extends along a plane perpendicular to the up-down direction Z. When viewed in the up-down direction Z, the shape of the second surface 72 is rectangular. The direction from the first surface 71 to the second surface 72 is the first direction 101.

[0032] The first end face 21 is continuous with each of the first face 71 and the second face 72. The first end face 21 extends along a plane perpendicular to the longitudinal direction of the base portion 39. When viewed in the longitudinal direction of the base portion 39, the first end face 21 has a rectangular shape. The second end face 22 is provided on the opposite side of the first end face 21. The second end face 22 extends along a plane perpendicular to the longitudinal direction of the base portion 39. When viewed in the longitudinal direction of the base portion 39, the second end face 22 has a rectangular shape. The direction from the first end face 21 to the second end face 22 is along the longitudinal direction of the base portion 39. The longitudinal direction of the base portion 39 is along a plane perpendicular to the up-down direction Z.

[0033] 1 and 2, an engagement portion 60 is provided on the first surface 71. The engagement portion 60 is spaced apart from the rotation axis A. The engagement portion 60 has a first engagement portion 61 and a second engagement portion 62.

[0034] As shown in FIG. 2, a first engagement portion 61 is provided on the first surface 71. The shape of the first engagement portion 61 is, for example, a cylindrical shape. The first engagement portion 61 extends along the up-down direction Z. From another perspective, the direction in which the first engagement portion 61 extends is parallel to the rotation axis A. The first engagement portion 61 is spaced apart from the rotation axis A. In the longitudinal direction of the base portion 39, the first engagement portion 61 is provided between the rotation axis A and the first end surface 21. The first engagement portion 61 is provided in the second direction 102 with respect to the base portion 39. The first engagement portion 61 is, for example, a cam follower.

[0035] The first engagement portion 61 has a first outer peripheral surface 63. The first outer peripheral surface 63 has an annular shape. The first outer peripheral surface 63 extends along the up-down direction Z. When viewed in the up-down direction Z, the first outer peripheral surface 63 has a circular shape.

[0036] The second engagement portion 62 is provided on the first surface 71. The shape of the second engagement portion 62 is, for example, cylindrical. The second engagement portion 62 extends along the up-down direction Z. From another perspective, the direction in which the second engagement portion 62 extends is parallel to the rotation axis A. The second engagement portion 62 is spaced apart from the rotation axis A. In the longitudinal direction of the base portion 39, the second engagement portion 62 is provided between the rotation axis A and the second end surface 22. The second engagement portion 62 is provided in the second direction 102 with respect to the base portion 39. The second engagement portion 62 is, for example, a cam follower.

[0037] The second engagement portion 62 has a second outer peripheral surface 64. The second outer peripheral surface 64 is annular in shape. The second outer peripheral surface 64 extends along the up-down direction Z. When viewed in the up-down direction Z, the second outer peripheral surface 64 is circular in shape.

[0038] The second engagement portion 62 is provided on the opposite side of the first engagement portion 61 with respect to the rotation axis A. From another perspective, the rotation axis A is provided between the first engagement portion 61 and the second engagement portion 62. The first engagement portion 61, the rotation axis A, and the second engagement portion 62 are aligned, for example, along the longitudinal direction of the base portion 39. In the longitudinal direction of the base portion 39, the distance between the first engagement portion 61 and the rotation axis A is substantially the same as the distance between the second engagement portion 62 and the rotation axis A.

[0039] On the second surface 72, each of the plurality of suction portions 30 is fixed to the base portion 39. The plurality of suction portions 30 suction the solar cell group 90. The plurality of suction portions 30 are lined up along the longitudinal direction of the base portion 39. The number of the plurality of suction portions 30 is, for example, five.

[0040] A suction port (not shown) is provided in each of the plurality of suction units 30. The suction port is open toward the first direction 101. Each of the plurality of suction units 30 is capable of suctioning an object located in the first direction 101 relative to the plurality of suction units 30.

[0041] The first camera 51 is attached to the base portion 39 at the first end surface 21. The first camera 51 can capture an image of an object located in a first direction 101 relative to the first camera 51. The first camera 51 can capture an image of the solar cell group 90 to which the multiple suction portions 30 are suctioned.

[0042] At the second end surface 22, the second camera 52 is attached to the base portion 39. The second camera 52 is provided on the opposite side of the base portion 39 to the first camera 51. From another perspective, the base portion 39 is provided between the first camera 51 and the second camera 52. The second camera 52 can capture an image of an object located in the first direction 101 relative to the second camera 52. The second camera 52 can capture an image of the solar cell group 90 to which the multiple suction portions 30 are suctioned.

[0043] The bearing 27 is attached to the connection portion 5. The bearing 27 is supported by the connection portion 5. In the vertical direction Z, the bearing 27 is provided between the motor 19 and the base portion 39. The bearing 27 is spaced apart from both the motor 19 and the base portion 39. The bearing 27 is attached to the second shaft portion 16. The bearing 27 surrounds the second shaft portion 16. The bearing 27 supports the second shaft portion 16. The bearing 27 can receive a force applied to the second shaft portion 16 along the direction in which the second shaft portion 16 extends. The bearing 27 surrounds the rotation axis A. The bearing 27 is a thrust bearing.

[0044] 2, the position correction unit 20 is attached to the connection unit 5. The position correction unit 20 is supported by the connection unit 5. The position correction unit 20 is spaced apart from the rotation drive unit 2. The position correction unit 20 has a fifth drive unit 25, a sixth drive unit 26, and an engaged unit 29.

[0045] The fifth driving unit 25 is attached to the connection unit 5. The fifth driving unit 25 is capable of moving the sixth driving unit 26 and the engaged unit 29 along the front-rear direction Y. The fifth driving unit 25 is, for example, a linear motion mechanism such as an electric actuator or an air cylinder.

[0046] The sixth driving unit 26 is attached to the fifth driving unit 25. The sixth driving unit 26 can move the engaged part 29, for example, along the left-right direction X. From another perspective, the position correction unit 20 can move the engaged part 29 along two different axes. The sixth driving unit 26 is, for example, a linear motion mechanism such as an electric actuator and an air cylinder.

[0047] The engaged portion 29 is attached to the sixth driving portion 26. The shape of the engaged portion 29 is, for example, plate-like. The engaged portion 29 is spaced from the base portion 39. The engaged portion 29 is provided in the second direction 102 relative to the base portion 39. The engaged portion 29 corresponds to the engaging portion 60 (see FIG. 1). Specifically, the engaged portion 29 is engageable with each of the first engaging portion 61 and the second engaging portion 62. The engaged portion 29 is spaced from the rotation axis A. The direction from the engaged portion 29 toward the rotation axis A is along, for example, the left-right direction X. The direction from the engaged portion 29 toward the rotation axis A may be along the front-rear direction Y, or may be inclined with respect to each of the left-right direction X and the front-rear direction Y.

[0048] 3, engaged portion 29 has a first tip surface 36, a second tip surface 37, and a concave surface 38. The first tip surface 36 extends along a plane perpendicular to the direction from engaged portion 29 toward rotation axis A. In the direction from engaged portion 29 toward rotation axis A, the first tip surface 36 is the portion of engaged portion 29 that is closest to rotation axis A (see FIG. 2).

[0049] The second tip surface 37 extends along a plane perpendicular to the direction from the engaged portion 29 toward the rotation axis A. The second tip surface 37 is spaced apart from the first tip surface 36. In the direction from the engaged portion 29 toward the rotation axis A, the second tip surface 37 may be at the same position as the first tip surface 36. In the direction perpendicular to the direction from the engaged portion 29 toward the rotation axis A, the rotation axis A is provided between the first tip surface 36 and the second tip surface 37.

[0050] The concave surface 38 is continuous with each of the first tip surface 36 and the second tip surface 37. In the front-rear direction Y, the concave surface 38 is provided between the first tip surface 36 and the second tip surface 37. The concave surface 38 is recessed in a direction from the rotation axis A toward the engaged portion 29 relative to the first tip surface 36. The concave surface 38 can engage with the engaging portion 60. Specifically, the engaged portion 29 restricts the movement of the engaging portion 60 by contacting the engaging portion 60 at the concave surface 38. The concave surface 38 is a portion that contacts either the first engaging portion 61 or the second engaging portion 62. The concave surface 38 constitutes the groove 28. When viewed in the up-down direction Z, the shape of the groove 28 is V-shaped.

[0051] 3, the engaged portion 29 has a first portion 31, a second portion 32, and a third portion 33. The first portion 31 is attached to the sixth driving portion 26. The shape of the first portion 31 is, for example, a rectangular parallelepiped shape.

[0052] The second part 32 is continuous with the first part 31. The second part 32 is provided with respect to the first part 31 in a direction from the engaged part 29 toward the rotation axis A. The second part 32 is spaced apart from the sixth driving part 26. The second part 32 constitutes the first tip surface 36. The second part 32 constitutes a part of the concave surface 38. The second part 32 is a part that contacts either the first engaging part 61 or the second engaging part 62.

[0053] The third portion 33 is continuous with the first portion 31. The third portion 33 is provided with respect to the first portion 31 in a direction from the engaged portion 29 toward the rotation axis A. The third portion 33 is spaced apart from the second portion 32. The third portion 33 is spaced apart from the sixth driving portion 26. The third portion 33 constitutes the second tip surface 37. The third portion 33 constitutes a part of the concave surface 38. The third portion 33 is a portion that contacts either the first engaging portion 61 or the second engaging portion 62.

[0054] In a direction perpendicular to the direction from the rotation axis A toward the engaged portion 29, the rotation axis A is between the second portion 32 and the third portion 33. As the rotation axis A moves away from the first tip surface 36 along the direction from the rotation axis A toward the engaged portion 29, the distance between the second portion 32 and the third portion 33 in the direction perpendicular to the direction from the rotation axis A toward the engaged portion 29 becomes shorter.

[0055] The position correction unit 20 can control the position of the holding unit 3 in the rotation direction θ. The position correction unit 20 restricts the movement of the holding unit 3 in the rotation direction θ by engaging the engaged portion 29 with the engaging portion 60. Specifically, when the engaged portion 29 and the first engaging portion 61 are engaged with each other, the first engaging portion 61 is located between the second portion 32 and the third portion 33 in the rotation direction θ. When the engaging portion 60 and the engaged portion 29 are not engaged with each other, the rotation drive unit 2 can rotate the holding unit 3 along the rotation direction θ.

[0056] The position correction unit 20 can rotate the holding unit 3 along the rotation direction θ. From another perspective, the position correction unit 20 can move the engaged portion 29 while maintaining a state in which the engaged portion 29 is engaged with the engaging portion 60. Specifically, the position correction unit 20 can move the engaged portion 29, for example, along the front-rear direction Y while maintaining a state in which the engaged portion 29 is in contact with the engaging portion 60 on the concave surface 38. Note that in Figs. 1, 2 and 3, a state in which the engaged portion 29 is engaged with the first engaging portion 61 is shown.

[0057] 4, the solar cell panel manufacturing apparatus 100 has a second stage 8, an inverting unit 9, and a coating unit (not shown). The second stage 8 supports a solar cell group 90. The second stage 8 may be a different part from the first stage 4 (see FIG. 1), or may be the same part. The second stage 8 has a second support surface 89 and a side wall surface 88.

[0058] The second support surface 89 is a surface on which the solar cell group 90 is arranged. The second support surface 89 is planar. The second support surface 89 extends along a plane perpendicular to the up-down direction Z. The side wall surface 88 is continuous with the second support surface 89. The side wall surface 88 extends along the up-down direction Z. The side wall surface 88 is in a second direction 102 relative to the second support surface 89. When viewed in the up-down direction Z, the side wall surface 88 is annular. The side wall surface 88 surrounds the solar cell group 90.

[0059] In the up-down direction Z, the inversion unit 9 is provided in the second direction 102 relative to the second stage 8. The inversion unit 9 is spaced apart from the second stage 8. The inversion unit 9 is capable of holding the solar cell group 90 by adsorbing the solar cell group 90. The inversion unit 9 is capable of rotating, for example, about a straight line parallel to the left-right direction X. The application unit (not shown) is provided above the second stage 8. The application unit is capable of applying an adhesive (not shown) to the solar cell group 90 arranged on the second support surface 89. The transport unit 6 (see FIG. 1) is capable of moving the holding unit 3 (see FIG. 1) above the second stage 8.

[0060] As shown in Fig. 5, the solar cell panel manufacturing apparatus 100 has a control unit 10. The control unit 10 is electrically connected to a first drive unit 69. The control unit 10 is capable of controlling the first drive unit 69 by outputting a signal to the first drive unit 69. Specifically, the control unit 10 is capable of moving the support unit 68 (see Fig. 1) by outputting a signal to the first drive unit 69.

[0061] The control unit 10 is electrically connected to the second drive unit 12. The control unit 10 is capable of controlling the second drive unit 12 by outputting a signal to the second drive unit 12. Specifically, the control unit 10 is capable of moving the solar cell group 90 (see FIG. 1 ) along the front-rear direction Y by outputting a signal to the second drive unit 12.

[0062] The control unit 10 is electrically connected to the third drive unit 13. The control unit 10 is capable of controlling the third drive unit 13 by outputting a signal to the third drive unit 13. Specifically, the control unit 10 is capable of moving the solar cell group 90 along the left-right direction X by outputting a signal to the third drive unit 13.

[0063] The control unit 10 is electrically connected to the fourth drive unit 14. The control unit 10 is capable of controlling the fourth drive unit 14 by outputting a signal to the fourth drive unit 14. Specifically, the control unit 10 is capable of moving the solar cell group 90 in the up-down direction Z by outputting a signal to the fourth drive unit 14.

[0064] The control unit 10 is electrically connected to the fifth driving unit 25. The control unit 10 is capable of controlling the fifth driving unit 25 by outputting a signal to the fifth driving unit 25. Specifically, the control unit 10 is capable of moving the engaged portion 29 (see FIG. 2) along the front-rear direction Y by outputting a signal to the fifth driving unit 25.

[0065] The control unit 10 is electrically connected to the sixth drive unit 26. The control unit 10 is capable of controlling the sixth drive unit 26 by outputting a signal to the sixth drive unit 26. Specifically, the control unit 10 is capable of moving the engaged portion 29 along the left-right direction X by outputting a signal to the sixth drive unit 26.

[0066] The control unit 10 is electrically connected to the motor 19. The control unit 10 is capable of controlling the motor 19 by outputting a signal to the motor 19. Specifically, the control unit 10 is capable of rotating the solar cell group 90 along a rotation direction θ by outputting a signal to the motor 19.

[0067] The control unit 10 is electrically connected to the first camera 51. The control unit 10 can cause the first camera 51 to capture an image by outputting a signal to the first camera 51. The first camera 51 transmits captured image data to the control unit 10.

[0068] The control unit 10 is electrically connected to the second camera 52. The control unit 10 can cause the second camera 52 to capture an image by outputting a signal to the second camera 52. The second camera 52 transmits captured image data to the control unit 10.

[0069] The control unit 10 is electrically connected to the multiple adsorption units 30. The control unit 10 can control adsorption using the multiple adsorption units 30 by outputting signals to the multiple adsorption units 30. The control unit 10 is electrically connected to the reversing unit 9. The control unit 10 can control adsorption using the reversing unit 9 and rotation of the reversing unit 9 by outputting signals to the reversing unit 9.

[0070] The control unit 10 has a communication unit 42, a storage unit 43, and a calculation unit 44. The communication unit 42 transmits signals to each of the first driving unit 69, the second driving unit 12, the third driving unit 13, the fourth driving unit 14, the fifth driving unit 25, the sixth driving unit 26, the motor 19, the first camera 51, the second camera 52, the plurality of suction units 30, and the reversing unit 9. The communication unit 42 receives image data output from each of the first camera 51 and the second camera 52.

[0071] The storage unit 43 stores the positions at which the solar cell group 90 is to be arranged. The calculation unit 44 performs a predetermined calculation based on the data input to the communication unit 42 and the data stored in the storage unit 43.

[0072] <Solar cell panel manufacturing method>

[0073] Next, a method for manufacturing a solar cell panel according to the present embodiment will be described with reference to FIGS.

[0074] 6 to 8, first, a step (S10) of supplying a solar cell group 90 is performed. The solar cell group 90 is supplied onto a second stage 8. The second stage 8 contacts the solar cell group 90 at a second support surface 89. The side wall surface 88 surrounds the solar cell group 90.

[0075] 7 and 8, solar cell group 90 has a light-receiving surface 96 and an adhesive surface 95. The light-receiving surface 96 is a portion of solar cell group 90 that receives sunlight. The adhesive surface 95 is provided on the opposite side of light-receiving surface 96. The adhesive surface 95 is a portion of solar cell group 90 that is adhered to sheet 99 (see FIG. 1).

[0076] The solar cell group 90 has a plurality of solar cells 91 and wiring 92. The number of the solar cells 91 is determined in advance. The number of the solar cells 91 is, for example, five. Each of the solar cells 91 has a plate shape.

[0077] Each of the plurality of solar cells 91 constitutes a light receiving surface 96. Each of the plurality of solar cells 91 constitutes an adhesive surface 95. The plurality of solar cells 91 are arranged in a row. The wiring 92 electrically connects each of the plurality of solar cells 91. The wiring 92 is provided on the light receiving surface 96.

[0078] 8, the solar cell group 90 has a first end 81 and a second end 82. In the direction in which the multiple solar cells 91 are arranged, the second end 82 is opposite to the first end 81. The direction from the first end 81 to the second end 82 is along the direction in which the multiple solar cells 91 are arranged.

[0079] In the step (S10) of supplying solar cell group 90, solar cell group 90 is supplied so that light receiving surface 96 faces second stage 8. Wiring 92 contacts second stage 8. Adhesive surface 95 is positioned in second direction 102 relative to light receiving surface 96.

[0080] Next, a step (S20) of aligning the multiple solar cells 91 is performed. Specifically, the solar cell group 90 is pressed against the side wall surface 88 along a direction (for example, the front-rear direction Y) perpendicular to the arrangement direction of the multiple solar cells 91 and parallel to the second support surface 89. Each of the multiple solar cells 91 comes into contact with the side wall surface 88. As a result, the multiple solar cells 91 are aligned.

[0081] Next, a step (S30) is performed of applying an adhesive to the adhesive surface 95. Specifically, an adhesive (not shown) is applied to the adhesive surface 95 using an application unit (not shown).

[0082] Next, a step (S40) of inverting solar cell group 90 is performed. Specifically, as shown in Fig. 7, control unit 10 outputs a signal to inverting unit 9, thereby causing inverting unit 9 to adhere to adhesive surface 95. In this way, inverting unit 9 holds solar cell group 90.

[0083] As shown in FIG. 9 , the inversion unit 9 inverts the solar cell group 90 so that the position of the bonding surface 95 and the position of the light receiving surface 96 are swapped. Specifically, the control unit 10 outputs a signal to the inversion unit 9 to rotate the solar cell group 90, for example, around a straight line parallel to the arrangement direction of the multiple solar cells 91. The rotation angle of the solar cell group 90 is about 180°. As a result, the position of the bonding surface 95 and the position of the light receiving surface 96 are swapped. The light receiving surface 96 is located in a second direction 102 with respect to the bonding surface 95. The solar cell group 90 moves away from the second stage 8.

[0084] Next, a step (S50) in which the holding unit holds the solar cell group 90 is performed. As shown in FIG. 9, the control unit 10 outputs a signal to the transport unit 6 to move the alignment unit 1 and the head unit 7 above the solar cell group 90. The control unit 10 outputs a signal to the alignment unit 1 to move the head unit 7 along the first direction 101. As a result, the plurality of suction units 30 come into contact with the solar cell group 90 at the light receiving surface 96. The plurality of suction units 30 suction the light receiving surface 96. Specifically, the control unit 10 outputs a signal to the plurality of suction units 30 to cause the plurality of suction units 30 to suction the light receiving surface 96. As a result, the holding unit 3 holds the solar cell group 90. The control unit 10 outputs a signal to the reversing unit 9 to release the suction of the bonding surface 95 by the reversing unit 9. As a result, the solar cell group 90 is transferred from the reversing unit 9 to the holding unit 3.

[0085] Next, a step (S60) of transporting the solar cell group 90 above the sheet 99 is performed. As shown in Fig. 10, the control unit 10 outputs a signal to the transport unit 6 to move the alignment unit 1 and the head unit 7 above the sheet 99. As a result, the solar cell group 90 held by the holding unit 3 is transported above the sheet 99. In the step (S60) of transporting the solar cell group 90 above the sheet 99, the engaged portion 29 is not engaged with the engaging portion 60. In other words, the engaged portion 29 is separated from the engaging portion 60.

[0086] 10, a sheet 99 is placed on the first support surface 41. The sheet 99 is supported by the first stage 4. The sheet 99 is used as a substrate. A plurality of alignment markers 98 are provided on the sheet 99. The alignment markers 98 are used as a reference when arranging the solar cell group 90.

[0087] Next, the control unit 10 determines whether or not to rotate the solar cell group 90 along the rotation direction θ (step S70). Specifically, the calculation unit 44 reads out data on the position at which the solar cell group 90 is to be arranged, which is held by the holding unit 3, from the storage unit 43. The calculation unit 44 determines whether or not to rotate the solar cell group 90, based on the data on the position at which the solar cell group 90 is to be arranged, which is held by the holding unit 3.

[0088] When the control unit 10 determines not to rotate the solar cell group 90 (NO in step S70), the control unit 10 performs a step (S90) of engaging the engaging portion 60 with the engaged portion 29. On the other hand, when the control unit 10 determines to rotate the solar cell group 90 (YES in step S70), the control unit 10 performs a step (S80) of rotating the solar cell group 90 along the rotation direction θ. The following describes the case where the solar cell panel manufacturing apparatus 100 determines to turn over the solar cell group 90 (YES in step S70).

[0089] As shown in FIG. 11, in the step (S80) of rotating the solar cell group 90 along the rotation direction θ, the control unit 10 rotates the solar cell group 90 using the holding unit 3. Specifically, the control unit 10 rotates the holding unit 3 about the rotation axis A by outputting a signal to the motor 19. The rotation angle of the holding unit 3 in the rotation direction θ is about 180°. This causes the solar cell group 90 to rotate such that the positions of the first end 81 and the second end 82 are interchanged. The positions of the first end surface 21 and the second end surface 22 are interchanged. From another perspective, the positions of the first engagement portion 61 and the second engagement portion 62 are interchanged.

[0090] Next, a step (S90) of engaging the engaging portion 60 with the engaged portion 29 is performed. As shown in Fig. 12 and Fig. 13, the sixth driving portion 26 of the position correction portion 20 presses the engaged portion 29 against the first engaging portion 61 along the direction from the engaged portion 29 toward the rotation axis A. Specifically, the control portion 10 outputs a signal to the sixth driving portion 26 to move the engaged portion 29 along the left-right direction X.

[0091] The engaged portion 29 contacts, for example, the first engaging portion 61. Specifically, either the first portion 31 or the second portion 32 contacts the first engaging portion 61. From another perspective, the concave surface 38 and the first outer peripheral surface 63 are in line contact at one location. As the engaged portion 29 continues to move along the direction from the engaged portion 29 toward the rotation axis A, both the first portion 31 and the second portion 32 contact the first engaging portion 61. From another perspective, the concave surface 38 and the first outer peripheral surface 63 are in line contact at two locations. A contact portion (not shown) between the concave surface 38 and the first outer peripheral surface 63 extends along the up-down direction Z. This causes the engaged portion 29 and the first engaging portion 61 to engage with each other.

[0092] The first engaging portion 61 is located in the groove 28. In the rotational direction θ, the first engaging portion 61 is sandwiched between the first portion 31 and the second portion 32. This restricts the movement of the holding portion 3 in the rotational direction θ. When the first engaging portion 61 and the engaged portion 29 engage with each other, a force may be applied from the concave surface 38 to the first outer peripheral surface 63, so that the holding portion 3 may rotate around the rotation axis A along the rotational direction θ. In addition, in the step (S90) of engaging the engaging portion 60 with the engaged portion 29, the second engaging portion 62 and the engaged portion 29 may engage with each other. From another perspective, the concave surface 38 and the second outer peripheral surface 64 may come into contact with each other. In the step (S90) of engaging the engaging portion 60 with the engaged portion 29, the engaged portion 29 engages with either the first engaging portion 61 or the second engaging portion 62.

[0093] Next, a step (S100) of measuring the amount of misalignment between the solar cell group 90 and the sheet 99 is performed. Specifically, the control unit 10 outputs a signal to each of the first camera 51 and the second camera 52, thereby causing each of the first camera 51 and the second camera 52 to capture images of the solar cell group 90 and the alignment marker 98. The image data captured by each of the first camera 51 and the second camera 52 is output to the control unit 10. The calculation unit 44 calculates the amount of misalignment between the solar cell group 90 and the sheet 99 based on the image data output from each of the first camera 51 and the second camera 52.

[0094] Next, a step (S110) of controlling the position of the solar cell group 90 in the rotation direction θ is performed. The control unit 10 moves the engaged part 29 while maintaining the state in which the engaged part 29 is engaged with the first engaging part 61. Specifically, the control unit 10 moves the engaged part 29 along the front-rear direction Y by outputting a signal to the fifth driving unit 25 based on the measured positional deviation amount. A force along the front-rear direction Y is applied from the engaged part 29 to the first engaging part 61. In other words, a force along a direction perpendicular to the direction from the engaged part 29 toward the rotation axis A is applied from the engaged part 29 to the first engaging part 61. The holding unit 3 and the solar cell group 90 rotate along the rotation direction θ around the rotation axis A. This controls the position of the solar cell group 90 in the rotation direction θ.

[0095] Next, a step (S120) of controlling the position of the solar cell group 90 in each of the left-right direction X and the front-back direction Y is performed. The position of the solar cell group 90 in a plane perpendicular to the rotation axis A is controlled. Specifically, the control unit 10 moves the solar cell group 90 along the front-back direction Y by outputting a signal to the second driving unit 12 based on the measured amount of positional deviation. The control unit 10 moves the solar cell group 90 along the left-right direction X by outputting a signal to the third driving unit 13 based on the measured amount of positional deviation. In this way, the position of the solar cell group 90 in each of the left-right direction X and the front-back direction Y is controlled.

[0096] As shown in FIG. 6, steps S90, S100, S110, and S120 constitute a step (S1) of positioning solar cell group 90 above sheet 99.

[0097] Next, a step (S130) of bonding the solar cell group 90 and the sheet 99 is performed. Specifically, the control unit 10 moves the solar cell group 90 along the first direction 101 by outputting a signal to the fourth driving unit 14. The solar cell group 90 comes into contact with the sheet 99 via the adhesive. As a result, the solar cell group 90 and the sheet 99 are bonded together using the adhesive.

[0098] Next, a step (S140) of releasing the adsorption of the solar cell group 90 is performed. Specifically, the control unit 10 outputs a signal to the multiple adsorption units 30, thereby releasing the adsorption of the solar cell group 90 by each of the multiple adsorption units 30. This causes the holding unit 3 to release the hold of the solar cell group 90.

[0099] Next, a step (S150) of retracting the holding unit 3 is performed. Specifically, the control unit 10 outputs a signal to the fourth driving unit 14 to move the head unit 7 along the second direction 102. The holding unit 3 moves away from the solar cell group 90. The control unit 10 outputs a signal to the transport unit 6 to retract the holding unit 3 from above the solar cell group 90.

[0100] Next, a step (S160) of releasing the engagement between engaging portion 60 and engaged portion 29 is performed. Specifically, control portion 10 outputs a signal to sixth driving portion 26 to move engaged portion 29 along a direction from rotation axis A toward engaged portion 29. Engaged portion 29 moves away from first engaging portion 61. As a result, engagement between engaging portion 60 and engaged portion 29 is released.

[0101] After the step (S160) of releasing the engagement between the engaging portion 60 and the engaged portion 29, for example, a step (S10) of supplying a solar cell group 90 may be performed. The above-mentioned steps S10 to S160 may be repeated until the number of solar cell groups 90 adhered to the sheet 99 reaches a predetermined number. In this manner, the solar cell panel 200 is manufactured.

[0102] As shown in FIG. 14, the solar cell panel 200 has a sheet 99 and a plurality of solar cell groups 90. At an adhesive surface 95 (see FIG. 7), each of the plurality of solar cell groups 91 is adhered to the sheet 99. The plurality of solar cell groups 90 are arranged in a direction perpendicular to the arrangement direction of the plurality of solar cell groups 91. The plurality of solar cell groups 90 are arranged at substantially equal intervals. An interval D between the plurality of solar cell groups 90 in the arrangement direction of the plurality of solar cell groups 90 is, for example, 0.8 mm or more and 1.0 mm or less. The orientations in which two adjacent solar cell groups 90 are arranged may be different, for example. Specifically, the directions from the first end 81 to the second end 82 in each of the two adjacent solar cell groups 90 may be opposite to each other.

[0103] The length of the solar cell group 90 in the direction in which the multiple solar cells 91 are arranged is defined as a first length L1. The first length L1 is, for example, about 1.2 m. The length of the solar cell group 90 in a direction perpendicular to the direction in which the multiple solar cells 91 are arranged is defined as a second length L2. The second length L2 is, for example, about 150 mm.

[0104] Next, the effects of the solar cell panel manufacturing method and solar cell panel manufacturing apparatus 100 according to the present embodiment will be described.

[0105] When manufacturing a solar cell panel, the solar cell group 90 is positioned. When positioning the solar cell group 90, the position of the solar cell group 90 may be shifted in the rotation direction θ due to backlash of the shaft coupling 23 and the rotation drive unit 2. According to the solar cell panel manufacturing method of this embodiment, the holding unit 3 has an engaging unit 60. The engaging unit 60 is spaced apart from the rotation axis A. In the step of positioning the solar cell group 90, the engaged unit 29 is engaged with the engaging unit 60 to restrict movement of the holding unit 3 in the rotation direction θ. This makes it possible to suppress the position of the solar cell group 90 from being shifted in the rotation direction θ. As a result, the accuracy of positioning the solar cell group 90 can be improved.

[0106] According to the method for manufacturing a solar cell panel according to this embodiment, the position of the solar cell group 90 in the rotation direction θ is controlled by moving the engaged portion 29 while maintaining the engaged state with the engaging portion 60. Therefore, the position of the solar cell group 90 in the rotation direction θ can be controlled with high accuracy compared to the case where the solar cell group 90 is rotated using the rotation drive unit 2. As a result, the accuracy of positioning the solar cell group 90 can be improved.

[0107] According to the manufacturing method for a solar cell panel of this embodiment, after the step (S110) of controlling the position of the solar cell group 90 in the rotational direction θ, a step (S120) of correcting the position of the solar cell group 90 in each of the left-right direction X and the front-back direction Y is performed. Therefore, according to the manufacturing method for a solar cell panel of this embodiment, it is easier to control the position of the solar cell group 90 compared to the case where the step (S110) of controlling the position of the solar cell group 90 in the rotational direction θ and the step (S120) of controlling the position of the solar cell group 90 in each of the left-right direction X and the front-back direction Y are performed simultaneously.

[0108] According to the solar cell panel manufacturing apparatus 100 of this embodiment, the position correction unit 20 restricts the movement of the holding unit 3 in the rotational direction θ by engaging the engaged portion 29 with the engaging portion 60. This makes it possible to prevent the position of the solar cell group 90 from shifting in the rotational direction θ. As a result, the accuracy of the positioning of the solar cell group 90 can be improved.

[0109] According to the solar cell panel manufacturing apparatus 100 of this embodiment, the position correction unit 20 can move the engaged portion 29 while maintaining the state in which the engaged portion 29 is engaged with the engaging portion 60. Therefore, by moving the engaged portion 29, the holding unit 3 can be moved along the rotation direction θ. This makes it possible to control the position of the solar cell group 90 in the rotation direction θ with high accuracy compared to the case in which the solar cell group 90 is rotated using the rotation drive unit 2. As a result, the accuracy of positioning the solar cell group 90 can be improved.

[0110] <Modification of this embodiment>

[0111] The configuration of the alignment unit 1 is not limited to the above, but may be any configuration that can control the position of the solar cell group in each of the left-right direction X, the front-back direction Y, the up-down direction Z, and the rotational direction θ.

[0112] The configurations of the engaging portion 60 and the engaged portion 29 are not limited to the above configuration. The engaging portion 60 and the engaged portion 29 may be capable of transmitting the power of the fifth driving portion 25 to the holding portion 3 by engaging with each other. The direction in which the first engaging portion 61, the rotation axis A, and the second engaging portion 62 are aligned may be inclined with respect to the longitudinal direction of the base portion 39.

[0113] Each of first camera 51 and second camera 52 needs only to be capable of detecting the positions of the solar cell group and the alignment markers indicating the arrangement positions, and recognizing any positional deviation.

[0114] The step (S110) of controlling the position of the solar cell group 90 in the rotational direction θ and the step (S120) of controlling the position of the solar cell group 90 in each of the left-right direction X and the front-back direction Y may be performed simultaneously. This makes it possible to reduce the time required for positioning the solar cell group 90.

[0115] The embodiments disclosed herein are illustrative in all respects and should not be considered as limiting. The scope of the present disclosure is defined by the claims, not the above description, and is intended to include the meaning equivalent to the claims and all modifications within the scope.

[0116] Various aspects of the present disclosure are summarized below as appendices. (Appendix 1) A step of applying an adhesive to an adhesive surface of a solar cell group having a light receiving surface and an adhesive surface opposite the light receiving surface; After the step of applying the adhesive to the bonding surface, a step of holding the solar cell group using a rotatable holding part; conveying the solar cell group held by the holding unit above a sheet; positioning the solar cell group above the sheet; and bonding the solar cell group and the sheet using the adhesive by contacting the solar cell group with the sheet at the adhesive surface, the holding portion has an engagement portion spaced from a rotation axis of the holding portion, A method for manufacturing a solar cell panel, in a step of positioning the solar cell group, the movement of the holding portion in the rotational direction of the holding portion is regulated by engaging an engaged portion corresponding to the engaging portion with the engaging portion. (Appendix 2) The method for manufacturing a solar cell panel described in Appendix 1, wherein in a step of positioning the solar cell group above the sheet, the engaged portion is moved while maintaining a state in which the engaged portion is engaged with the engaging portion, thereby controlling the position of the solar cell group in the rotational direction. (Appendix 3) 3. The method for manufacturing a solar cell panel according to claim 2, wherein in the step of positioning the solar cell group above the sheet, after controlling the position of the solar cell group in the rotation direction, the position of the solar cell group in a plane perpendicular to the rotation axis is controlled. (Appendix 4) The method for manufacturing a solar cell panel according to claim 2 or 3, wherein in the step of positioning the solar cell group above the sheet, after the engaged portion is engaged with the engaging portion and before the position of the solar cell group in the rotational direction is controlled, an amount of misalignment between the solar cell group and the sheet is measured using an alignment marker provided on the sheet. (Appendix 5) a step of contacting the solar cell group with the sheet at the adhesive surface to adhere the solar cell group and the sheet using the adhesive, followed by a step of releasing the solar cell group from the holding portion; a step of retracting the holding portion that has released the holding of the solar cell group from above the sheet; The method for manufacturing a solar cell panel according to any one of Appendix 1 to Appendix 4, further comprising the step of releasing the engagement between the engaging portion and the engaged portion after the step of retracting the holding portion, which has released its hold on the solar cell group, from above the sheet. (Appendix 6) supplying the solar cell group on a stage before applying the adhesive to the bonding surface of the solar cell group; aligning the plurality of solar cells constituting the solar cell group on the stage, The method for manufacturing a solar cell panel according to any one of claims 1 to 5, wherein in the step of supplying the solar cell group onto the stage, the solar cell group is supplied with the light receiving surface facing the stage. (Appendix 7) The solar cell group includes: A solar cell array includes a plurality of solar cells arranged in a row. and a second end portion on the opposite side of the first end portion in a direction in which the plurality of solar cells are arranged, The method for manufacturing a solar cell panel according to any one of Appendix 1 to Appendix 5, further comprising, before the step of positioning the solar cell group above the sheet, a step of rotating the solar cell group using the holding part along the rotation direction so that the position of the first end and the position of the second end are swapped. (Appendix 8) a step of inverting the solar cell group so that a position of the adhesive surface and a position of the light receiving surface are interchanged after the step of applying the adhesive to the adhesive surface of the solar cell group, The method for manufacturing a solar cell panel according to any one of Appendix 1 to Appendix 7, wherein in the step of holding the solar cell group using the rotatable holding part, the holding part holds the solar cell group by adsorbing the light receiving surface. (Appendix 9) A solar cell panel manufacturing apparatus for manufacturing a solar cell panel having a solar cell group, A holding unit that holds the solar cell group; A rotation drive unit that rotates the holding unit; a position correction unit spaced apart from the rotation drive unit, the holding portion has an engagement portion spaced apart from a rotation shaft of the rotation drive portion, the position correction unit has an engaged portion corresponding to the engaging portion, The position correction unit regulates movement of the holding part in a rotation direction of the holding part by engaging the engaged part with the engaging part. (Appendix 10) 10. The solar cell panel manufacturing apparatus of claim 9, wherein the position correction unit is capable of moving the engaged portion while maintaining a state in which the engaged portion is engaged with the engaging portion. (Appendix 11) The engaging portion has a cylindrical shape, The solar cell panel manufacturing apparatus according to claim 9 or 10, wherein the engaged portion has a concave surface engageable with the engaging portion. (Appendix 12) The solar cell group includes: A solar cell array includes a plurality of solar cells arranged in a row. and a second end portion on the opposite side of the first end portion in a direction in which the plurality of solar cells are arranged, The solar cell panel manufacturing apparatus of any one of Appendix 9 to Appendix 11, wherein when the engaging portion and the engaged portion are not engaged, the rotation drive portion is capable of rotating the solar cell group so that the position of the first end and the position of the second end are swapped by rotating the holding portion along the rotation direction. [Explanation of symbols]

[0117] 1 alignment unit, 2 rotation drive unit, 3 holding unit, 4 first stage, 5 connection unit, 6 transport unit, 7 head unit, 8 second stage, 9 inversion unit, 10 control unit, 12 second drive unit, 13 third drive unit, 14 fourth drive unit, 15 first shaft unit, 16 second shaft unit, 18 main body unit, 19 motor, 20 position correction unit, 21 first end surface, 22 second end surface, 23 shaft coupling, 25 fifth drive unit, 26 sixth drive unit, 27 bearing, 28 groove, 29 engaged unit, 30 suction unit, 31 first portion, 32 second portion, 33 third portion, 36 first tip surface, 37 second tip surface, 38 concave surface, 39 base unit, 41 first support surface, 42 communication unit, 43 memory unit, 44 calculation unit, 51 first camera, 52 second camera, 60 Engagement portion, 61 first engagement portion, 62 second engagement portion, 63 first outer peripheral surface, 64 second outer peripheral surface, 68 support portion, 69 first drive portion, 71 first surface, 72 second surface, 81 first end portion, 82 second end portion, 88 side wall surface, 89 second support surface, 90 solar cell group, 91 solar cell, 92 wiring, 95 bonding surface, 96 light receiving surface, 98 alignment marker, 99 sheet, 100 solar cell panel manufacturing apparatus, 101 first direction, 102 second direction, 200 solar cell panel, A rotation axis, D spacing, L1 first length, L2 second length, X left-right direction, Y front-back direction, Z up-down direction, θ rotation direction.

Claims

1. A step of applying an adhesive to an adhesive surface of a solar cell group having a light receiving surface and an adhesive surface opposite the light receiving surface; After the step of applying the adhesive to the bonding surface, a step of holding the solar cell group using a rotatable holding part; conveying the solar cell group held by the holding unit above a sheet; positioning the solar cell group above the sheet; and bonding the solar cell group and the sheet using the adhesive by contacting the solar cell group with the sheet at the adhesive surface, the holding portion has an engagement portion spaced from a rotation axis of the holding portion, A method for manufacturing a solar cell panel, in a step of positioning the solar cell group, the movement of the holding portion in the rotational direction of the holding portion is regulated by engaging an engaged portion corresponding to the engaging portion with the engaging portion.

2. 2. The method for manufacturing a solar cell panel according to claim 1, wherein in a step of positioning the solar cell group above the sheet, the position of the solar cell group in the rotational direction is controlled by moving the engaged portion while maintaining the engaged portion engaged with the engaging portion.

3. 3. The method for manufacturing a solar cell panel according to claim 2, wherein in the step of positioning the solar cell group above the sheet, a position of the solar cell group in the rotation direction is controlled, and then a position of the solar cell group in a plane perpendicular to the rotation axis is controlled.

4. 4. The method for manufacturing a solar cell panel according to claim 2 or 3, wherein in a step of positioning the solar cell group above the sheet, after the engaged portion is engaged with the engaging portion and before the position of the solar cell group in the rotational direction is controlled, an amount of misalignment between the solar cell group and the sheet is measured using an alignment marker provided on the sheet.

5. a step of contacting the solar cell group with the sheet at the adhesive surface to adhere the solar cell group and the sheet using the adhesive, followed by a step of releasing the solar cell group from the holding portion; a step of retracting the holding portion that has released the holding of the solar cell group from above the sheet; 4. The method for manufacturing a solar cell panel according to claim 1, further comprising a step of releasing the engagement between the engaging portion and the engaged portion after a step of retracting the holding portion, which has released its hold on the solar cell group, from above the sheet.

6. supplying the solar cell group on a stage before applying the adhesive to the bonding surface of the solar cell group; aligning the plurality of solar cells constituting the solar cell group on the stage, The method for manufacturing a solar cell panel according to claim 1 , wherein in the step of supplying the solar cell group onto the stage, the solar cell group is supplied such that the light receiving surface faces the stage.

7. The solar cell group includes: A solar cell array includes a plurality of solar cells arranged in a row. and a second end portion on the opposite side of the first end portion in a direction in which the plurality of solar cells are arranged, 4. The method for manufacturing a solar cell panel according to claim 1, further comprising, before a step of positioning the solar cell group above the sheet, a step of rotating the solar cell group along the rotation direction using the holding part so that the position of the first end and the position of the second end are swapped.

8. a step of inverting the solar cell group so that a position of the adhesive surface and a position of the light receiving surface are interchanged after the step of applying the adhesive to the adhesive surface of the solar cell group, 4. The method for manufacturing a solar cell panel according to claim 1, wherein in the step of holding the solar cell group using the rotatable holding portion, the holding portion holds the solar cell group by adsorbing the light receiving surface.

9. A solar cell panel manufacturing apparatus for manufacturing a solar cell panel having a solar cell group, A holding unit that holds the solar cell group; A rotation drive unit that rotates the holding unit; a position correction unit spaced apart from the rotation drive unit, the holding portion has an engagement portion spaced apart from a rotation shaft of the rotation drive portion, the position correction unit has an engaged portion corresponding to the engaging portion, The position correction unit regulates movement of the holding part in a rotation direction of the holding part by engaging the engaged part with the engaging part.

10. The solar cell panel manufacturing apparatus according to claim 9 , wherein the position correction unit is capable of moving the engaged portion while maintaining a state in which the engaged portion is engaged with the engaging portion.

11. The engaging portion has a cylindrical shape, The solar cell panel manufacturing apparatus according to claim 9 or 10, wherein the engaged portion has a concave surface that can engage with the engaging portion.

12. The solar cell group includes: A solar cell array includes a plurality of solar cells arranged in a row. and a second end portion on the opposite side of the first end portion in a direction in which the plurality of solar cells are arranged, 11. The solar cell panel manufacturing apparatus of claim 9, wherein when the engaging portion and the engaged portion are not engaged, the rotation drive portion is capable of rotating the solar cell group so that the position of the first end and the position of the second end are swapped by rotating the holding portion along the rotation direction.

Images