Wire transfer device for solar cell, apparatus and method for manufacturing solar module

Abstract

The present invention provides a wire transfer device for a solar cell, an apparatus and a method for manufacturing a solar module. The wire transfer device for a solar cell comprises: a base plate on which a wire for a solar cell having a compressed part is disposed; a loading unit for loading the wire and moving the wire to the base plate; a jig unit disposed above the base plate to overlap the wire; an alignment unit for applying force to the jig unit so that the jig unit aligns the wire for a solar cell on the base unit; and an unloading unit for discharging the wire for a solar cell aligned with the jig unit.

Description

Wire transport device for solar cells, solar module manufacturing device and manufacturing method

[0001] The present invention relates to a wire transport device for a solar cell, a solar module manufacturing device including the same, and a solar module manufacturing method.

[0002] Recently, interest in new and renewable energy sources has been increasing due to issues such as global environmental problems, depletion of fossil fuels, waste disposal from nuclear power plants, and site selection for new power plants. Among these, research and development on solar power generation, which is a pollution-free and infinite energy source, is actively underway.

[0003] Solar power generation requires semiconductor devices called solar cells, which convert solar energy into electrical energy. Since solar cells alone can only generate a maximum voltage of about 0.5 V, individual solar cells must be connected in series. These individual solar cells, connected in this way to form a modular structure, are called solar cell modules.

[0004] In general, solar cell modules are manufactured through a cell test process that classifies solar cell cells, a soldering (tabbing) process that connects solar cell cells in series using wires, a lay-up process that arranges solar cells in a horizontal shape and laminates low-iron tempered glass, EVA, and backsheets, a lamination process that presses solar cell modules under high-temperature vacuum, and a module test process that checks whether the completed solar cell module operates normally.

[0005] The soldering process includes applying and drying flux to the wire, cutting the wire, aligning the cut wire to the solar cell using a gripper, and soldering the wire between the solar cell.

[0006] However, if the wires are misaligned or rotated 90 degrees during the soldering process, the solar cell may break during the process of connecting the wires to the solar cell. This leads to reduced productivity and yield.

[0007] Accordingly, there is a need for a device to transfer the wires to a device where soldering is performed to connect multiple solar cells, while ensuring that the wires are positioned accurately during the process of being connected to the solar cells.

[0008] The present invention provides a wire transport device for a solar cell, a solar module manufacturing device including the same, and a solar module manufacturing method.

[0009] One aspect of the present invention provides a solar cell wire transport device including a base plate on which a solar cell wire having a compression portion is placed, a loading unit for loading the wire and moving it to the base plate, a jig unit for being placed on the upper portion of the base plate so as to overlap the wire, an alignment unit for applying force to the jig unit so that the jig unit aligns the solar cell wire on the base plate, and an unloading unit for discharging the solar cell wire aligned with the jig unit.

[0010] Another aspect of the present invention provides a solar module manufacturing device, comprising: a press device for compressing a solar cell wire in a preset pattern; a soldering device for connecting a plurality of solar cell cells with the solar cell wire; and a transport device disposed between the press device and the soldering device for aligning the solar cell wire from a base plate to the jig unit and transferring the jig unit and the solar cell wire to the soldering device, wherein the transport device comprises: a loading unit for loading the solar cell wire that has passed through the press device onto the base plate; a jig unit disposed on the upper portion of the base plate so as to overlap with the solar cell wire; an alignment unit for applying force to the jig unit so that the jig unit aligns the solar cell wire on the base plate; and an unloading unit for unloading the solar cell wire aligned with the jig unit onto the soldering device.

[0011] Another aspect of the present invention provides a method for manufacturing a solar module, comprising the steps of: compressing a solar cell wire in a preset pattern; aligning the solar cell wire with a jig unit so that a plurality of compressed portions of the solar cell wire have a preset arrangement; and receiving the aligned solar cell wire and soldering the solar cell wire to a solar cell.

[0012] A solar cell wire transport device according to one embodiment of the present invention, a solar module manufacturing device including the same, and a solar module manufacturing method can improve the quality of a solar cell module by aligning solar cell wires in a preset arrangement on solar cell cells.

[0013] FIG. 1 is a conceptual diagram illustrating a solar module manufacturing device according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0014] Fig. 2 is a side view illustrating the solar cell wire transport device of Fig. 1.

[0015] Figure 3 is a plan view illustrating the wire transport device for solar cells of Figure 1.

[0016] Figure 4 is a cross-sectional view taken along line AA of Figure 3.

[0017] FIG. 5 is a flowchart illustrating a method for manufacturing a solar module according to another embodiment of the present invention.

[0018] Figures 6 to 10 are drawings illustrating the process of the solar cell wire transport device of Figure 2 aligning and transporting wires.

[0019] One aspect of the present invention provides a solar cell wire transport device including a base plate on which a solar cell wire having a compression portion is placed, a loading unit for loading the wire and moving it to the base plate, a jig unit for being placed on the upper portion of the base plate so as to overlap the wire, an alignment unit for applying force to the jig unit so that the jig unit aligns the solar cell wire on the base plate, and an unloading unit for discharging the solar cell wire aligned with the jig unit.

[0020] Additionally, the alignment unit may be provided with a pusher disposed on one side of the jig unit, and a driving unit that provides a driving force to cause the pusher to perform a linear reciprocating motion toward the jig unit.

[0021] Additionally, the pusher has magnetism and can be attached to one side of the jig unit.

[0022] Additionally, the alignment unit may have a stopper disposed between the pusher and the base plate.

[0023] In addition, the jig unit has a wire jig having a contact end that contacts the compressed portion of the solar cell wire and a jig block arranged on both sides of the wire jig, and the alignment unit can apply force to the jig block so that the compressed portion is aligned to a preset position.

[0024] In addition, the jig block has a jig groove arranged to face the pusher of the alignment unit, so that the pusher can be inserted into the jig groove when the alignment unit is driven.

[0025] Additionally, the base plate may include a first guide block having a first guide groove to align a plurality of the solar cell wires at a preset interval, and a second guide block having a second guide groove into which the compressed portion of the solar cell wire is inserted.

[0026] Additionally, the loading unit can move the plurality of cut solar cell wires to the upper portion of the base plate and raise the base plate.

[0027] In addition, the unloading unit may be provided with a magnet portion that generates magnetic force and is connected to the jig block, and an adsorption portion that is positioned on top of the solar cell wire and picks up the solar cell wire.

[0028] In addition, the transport device may further include a position confirmation unit disposed on the upper portion of the base plate to recognize the position of the solar cell wire disposed on the base plate.

[0029] Another aspect of the present invention provides a solar module manufacturing device, comprising: a press device for compressing a solar cell wire in a preset pattern; a soldering device for connecting a plurality of solar cell cells with the solar cell wire; and a transport device disposed between the press device and the soldering device for aligning the solar cell wire from a base plate to the jig unit and transferring the jig unit and the solar cell wire to the soldering device, wherein the transport device comprises: a loading unit for loading the solar cell wire that has passed through the press device onto the base plate; a jig unit disposed on the upper portion of the base plate so as to overlap with the solar cell wire; an alignment unit for applying force to the jig unit so that the jig unit aligns the solar cell wire on the base plate; and an unloading unit for unloading the solar cell wire aligned with the jig unit onto the soldering device.

[0030] Additionally, the transport device may further include a conveyor unit that transfers the jig unit recovered from the soldering device to the base plate.

[0031] In addition, the present invention may further include a cutting device disposed between the press device and the transport device, which cuts a solar cell wire having a compressed portion in a preset pattern.

[0032] Additionally, the alignment unit may be provided with a pusher disposed on one side of the jig unit, and a driving unit that provides a driving force to cause the pusher to perform a linear reciprocating motion toward the jig unit.

[0033] In addition, the jig unit has a wire jig having a contact end that contacts the compressed portion of the solar cell wire, and jig blocks arranged on both sides of the wire jig, and the alignment unit can apply force to the jig blocks so that the compressed portion is aligned to a preset position.

[0034] Another aspect of the present invention provides a method for manufacturing a solar module, comprising the steps of: compressing a solar cell wire in a preset pattern; aligning the solar cell wire with a jig unit so that a plurality of compressed portions of the solar cell wire have a preset arrangement; and receiving the aligned solar cell wire and soldering the solar cell wire to a solar cell.

[0035] Additionally, the step of aligning the solar cell wire may include the step of placing the jig unit on the base plate and the step of applying force to the jig unit with a pusher of the alignment unit.

[0036] In addition, the step of aligning the solar cell wire can be performed by having the alignment unit apply force to the jig unit while the contact end of the jig unit is in contact with the compression portion, thereby aligning the compression portion to a preset position.

[0037] Other aspects, features and advantages other than those described above will become apparent from the following drawings, claims and detailed description of the invention.

[0038] The configuration and operation of the present invention will be described in detail with reference to embodiments of the present invention illustrated in the attached drawings below.

[0039] The present invention is capable of various modifications and embodiments. Specific embodiments are illustrated in the drawings and described in detail in the detailed description. The effects and features of the present invention, as well as the methods for achieving them, will become clearer with reference to the embodiments described in detail below, along with the drawings. However, the present invention is not limited to the embodiments disclosed below and can be implemented in various forms.

[0040] Hereinafter, embodiments of the present invention will be described in detail with reference to the attached drawings. When describing with reference to the drawings, identical or corresponding components are given the same reference numerals and redundant descriptions thereof will be omitted.

[0041] In the examples below, singular expressions include plural expressions unless the context clearly indicates otherwise.

[0042] In the examples below, terms such as “include” or “have” mean that a feature or component described in the specification is present, and do not preclude the possibility that one or more other features or components may be added.

[0043] In some embodiments, where implementations are otherwise feasible, specific process sequences may be performed in a different order than described. For example, two processes described in succession may be performed substantially simultaneously, or in a reverse order from the described order.

[0044] For convenience of explanation, the sizes of components in the drawings may be exaggerated or reduced. For example, the sizes and thicknesses of each component shown in the drawings are arbitrarily indicated for convenience of explanation, and thus the following embodiments are not necessarily limited to those shown.

[0045] FIG. 1 is a conceptual drawing illustrating a solar module manufacturing device (1) according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0046] Referring to FIG. 1, a solar module manufacturing device (1) may include a press device (10) for compressing a wire for a solar cell, a cutting device (20) for cutting the wire, a transport device (30) for transporting the wire to a soldering device (40), and a soldering device (40) for soldering the wire to a plurality of solar cell cells (C).

[0047] A wire (W) can be used to electrically connect multiple solar cells (C). The wire (W) is arranged along the surface of the solar cells (C) and can electrically connect adjacent solar cells (C). The wire (W) can be defined by names such as busbar, ribbon, and tab wire.

[0048] The wire (W) may include various conductive materials that connect the solar cells (C). For example, the wire (W) may have a core layer of metal and a solder layer made of a solder material that is thinly coated on the surface of the core layer.

[0049] The wire (W) may have a compressed portion (WC) and a non-compressed portion (WR). The non-compressed portion (WR) may be disposed on the surface of a solar cell (C), and the compressed portion (WC) may be disposed in a space between adjacent solar cells (C). The compressed portion (WC) may reduce the space between adjacent solar cells (C), thereby improving the quality and productivity of the solar module.

[0050] The press device (10) can compress the solar cell wire (W) in a preset pattern. The press device (10) can compress the wire (W) in a preset pattern to form a compressed portion (WC).

[0051] The press device (10) may include at least one roller for compressing the wire (W) and a driving unit (not shown) for providing driving force to the roller.

[0052] In one embodiment, the press device (10) is configured such that a plurality of wires (W) are fed as a set, and the rollers can compress the plurality of wires (W) in a preset pattern. Thus, a compressed portion (WC) may be included in a portion of the wire (W) pressed by the rollers.

[0053] The cutting device (20) can cut the compressed solar cell wire (W) according to a preset length. The cutting length of the wire (W) can be set longer than the length of the solar cell (C) so as to connect adjacent solar cell (C).

[0054] In one embodiment, the cutting device (20) may include a cutting unit (not shown) and a driving unit (not shown) that provides driving force to the cutting unit. The cutting unit cuts the wire (W) according to a preset cutting length, and may simultaneously cut a plurality of wires (W) set as one set.

[0055] In one embodiment, the cutting device (20) is arranged on one side of the press device (10), so that the pressed wire (W) can be continuously fed into the cutting device (20). In addition, the press device (10) and the cutting device (20) can be integrated into one, so that pressing and cutting can be performed simultaneously or sequentially. In addition, the cutting device (20) can be arranged between the press device (10) and the transport device (30).

[0056] The transport device (30) can transfer the wire (W) to the soldering device (40). The transport device (30) can align the compression portions (WC) to transfer a plurality of wires (W) as a set to the soldering device (40).

[0057] In one embodiment, the transport device (30) may be arranged on one side of the press device (10) or the cutting device (20) to continuously transfer the cut wire (W) to the soldering device (40). In addition, the transport device (30) may be integrated with at least one of the press device (10) and the cutting device (20) to directly transfer the pressed and cut wire (W) to the soldering device (40). In addition, the transport device (30) may be arranged between the press device (10) and the soldering device (40). The transport device (30) will be described in detail below.

[0058] A soldering device (40) can electrically connect a solar cell wire (W) to a plurality of solar cell cells (C). The soldering device (40) can solder the solar cell wire (W) to a soldering pad (not shown) of the solar cell cell (C), thereby connecting the wire (W) to the solar cell cell (C).

[0059] The solar module manufacturing device (1) may be equipped with a wire feeding device (not shown) that supplies wire (W) to a press device (10). In addition, the solar module manufacturing device (1) may include a solar cell feeding device (not shown) that supplies solar cell (C) to a soldering device (40). The solar module manufacturing device (1) may be equipped with a laminating device (not shown) that covers a solar module on which a soldering process has been completed with a sealant (not shown).

[0060] FIG. 2 is a side view illustrating the solar cell wire transport device (30) of FIG. 1, FIG. 3 is a plan view illustrating the solar cell wire transport device (30) of FIG. 1, and FIG. 4 is a cross-sectional view taken along line AA of FIG. 3.

[0061] Referring to FIGS. 2 and 3, the transport device (100) may include a base plate (110), a loading unit (120), a jig unit (130), an alignment unit (140), an unloading unit (150), a conveyor unit (160), a supply plate (170), a guide plate (180), and a stopper (190).

[0062] A solar cell wire (W) having a compression portion (WC) can be arranged on the base plate (110). The base plate (110) can arrange a set of solar cell wires (W), and the arrangement of the solar cell wires (W) can be aligned before soldering.

[0063] The base plate (110) may have a flat shape so that the wire (W) can be stably placed.

[0064] Referring to FIG. 4, the base plate (110) may be provided with a first guide block (111). The first guide block (111) may align the wire (W) at a preset interval in the base plate (110).

[0065] A plurality of first guide blocks (111) may be provided on the base plate (110) so as to be supported at multiple points of the wire (W) in the longitudinal direction of the wire (W).

[0066] The first guide block (111) protrudes from the upper surface of the base plate (110) and may have a first guide groove (1111). A plurality of first guide grooves (1111) may be provided along the longitudinal direction of the first guide block (111). Since the plurality of first guide grooves (1111) are arranged to be spaced apart from each other, the plurality of wires (W) can have their positions set in the width direction on the base plate (110). At this time, the first guide groove (1111) may be inserted with a non-compressed portion (WR) of the wire (W).

[0067] The base plate (110) may be provided with a second guide block (112). The second guide block (112) may support a compressed portion (WC) of the wire (W) in the base plate (110).

[0068] The second guide block (112) can provide a space in which the compressed portion (WC) of the wire (W) is aligned when the compressed portion (WC) of the wire (W) is misaligned, using the jig unit (130) described later.

[0069] The first guide block (111) and the second guide block (112) may have different heights.

[0070] In one embodiment, the first height (h1) of the first guide block (111) may be set to be greater than the second height (h2) of the second guide block (112). Since the wire (W) is supported on the surface of the compressed portion (WC) of the second guide block (112), the second height (h2) of the second guide block (112) may be set to be lower than the first height (h1) of the first guide block (111) whose non-compressed portion (WR) is inserted into the first guide groove (1111).

[0071] The base plate (110) can be raised or lowered in the height direction. The raising and lowering driving unit (113) can raise or lower the base plate (110) during the alignment process. Specifically, the base plate (110) is raised or lowered so that a plurality of wires (W) are introduced at a low height, and the wires (W) can be aligned by coming into contact with the jig unit (130).

[0072] In one embodiment, the elevation drive unit (113) may be equipped with various components capable of adjusting the height of the base plate (110). For example, the elevation drive unit (113) may transmit the rotational power of the driving motor to a chain, belt, gear, etc. to raise and lower the base plate (110). In addition, the elevation drive unit (113) may be equipped with a hydraulic cylinder or a gas cylinder to raise and lower the base plate (110).

[0073] Specifically, the elevating drive unit (113) places the base plate (110) at a low position as shown in Fig. 2 in the process of placing the wire (W) on the base plate (110). Thereafter, the elevating drive unit (113) raises the base plate (110) in the +Z-axis direction to a preset height (h3), so that the second guide block (112) can be positioned in the second area (AR2).

[0074] Thereafter, the lifting / lowering drive unit (113) can lower the base plate (110) to a preset height (h3) in the -Z-axis direction in order to reposition the wire (W) on the base plate (110).

[0075] The loading unit (120) can move the wire (W) to the base plate (110). The cut wire (W) is temporarily placed on the supply plate (170), and the loading unit (120) can move the wire (W) placed on the supply plate (170) to the base plate (110).

[0076] In one embodiment, the loading unit (120) may have a body (121) and a gripper (122).

[0077] The body (121) extends to one side and can move across the top of the base plate (110). That is, the body (121) can reciprocate in the X-axis direction.

[0078] The gripper (122) is placed at the end of the body (121) and can hold the end of the wire (W). When the body (121) advances to the supply plate (170), the gripper (122) can hold the end of the wire (W) placed on the supply plate (170).

[0079] Thereafter, when the body (121) moves backward toward the rear of the base plate, the gripper (122) releases the gripping, so that the wire (W) can be placed on the base plate (110). At this time, the compressed portion (WC) of the wire (W) can be placed on the second guide block (112).

[0080] The jig unit (130) can come into contact with the wires (W) placed on the base plate (110). The jig unit (130) can align the wires (W) and maintain the aligned state of one set of wires (W) when the wires (W) are moved to the soldering device (40).

[0081] The jig unit (130) can be moved to a preset alignment position via the conveyor unit (160). The jig unit (130) is placed in the first area (AR1) which is the upper part of the second guide block (112), and when the wire (W) placed on the base plate (110) moves to the upper part of the base plate (110) via the elevating and lowering driving unit (113), the wire (W) can come into contact with the wire jig (132) of the jig unit (130).

[0082] In one embodiment, the jig unit (130) may include a jig block (131) and a jig wire (132).

[0083] The jig block (131) is arranged on both sides of the jig unit (130) and can support the jig wire (W). The jig block (131) is arranged on the upper side of the conveyor unit (160), so that the jig unit (130) can be moved to the first area (AR1) by driving the conveyor unit (160).

[0084] The jig block (131) may have a jig groove (1311) on one side. The jig groove (1311) may be positioned to face the alignment unit (140) that applies force to the jig unit (130). When the alignment unit (140) is driven, the pusher (141) may be inserted into the jig groove (1311).

[0085] The wire jig (132) is supported on a jig block (131) and may have elasticity. The wire jig (132) is supported on a pair of jig blocks (131) arranged to face each other, and may have a predetermined elasticity so that its shape is deformed by an external force and restored when the external force is removed.

[0086] The wire jig (132) can be deformed into various shapes depending on the arrangement of the wire (W) when in contact with the wire (W). For example, the wire jig (132) has a loop shape with an empty interior, so that when an external force is applied, the shape of the internal space can be deformed, and when the external force is removed, the wire jig can be restored to the loop shape again.

[0087] The alignment unit (140) can align the wire (W) placed on the base plate (110) using the jig unit (130).

[0088] The alignment unit (140) may be placed on one side of the jig unit (130). Specifically, the alignment unit (140) may be placed on the -Y axis of the jig unit (130) and may apply force to the jig unit (130) to move the jig unit (130) in the Y-axis direction.

[0089] In one embodiment, the alignment unit (140) may include a pusher (141), a cylinder (142), a driving unit (143), a first body (144), and a second body (145).

[0090] The pusher (141) is arranged on one side of the jig unit (130) and can apply force to the jig unit (130). The pusher (141) is arranged to face the jig block (131) of the jig unit (130) in the first body (144), and the jig block (131) can be moved in the Y-axis direction by linear movement of the pusher (141).

[0091] The pusher (141) may be magnetic. When the pusher (141) is inserted into the jig groove (1311), the pusher (141) may be connected to the jig block (131) by magnetic force.

[0092] The cylinder (142) can receive driving force from the driving unit (143) to make the pusher (141) move linearly back and forth.

[0093] In one embodiment, the cylinder (142) can cause the first body (144) to move linearly back and forth in the Y-axis direction, and the pusher (141) can also move linearly back and forth in the Y-axis direction by the linear reciprocating movement of the first body (144).

[0094] In another embodiment, the cylinder (142) can cause each pusher (141) to move linearly in the Y-axis direction. The cylinder (142) is directly connected to the pusher (141) and can move the pusher (141) toward the jig block (131).

[0095] The driving unit (143) can provide driving force to the cylinder (142). The cylinder (142) can perform linear reciprocating motion through compression and expansion of air supplied from the driving unit (143).

[0096] The first body (144) supports the pusher (141), and the second body (145) is connected to an external structure (not shown) so that the position of the alignment unit (140) can be fixed.

[0097] The drawing describes an embodiment in which the alignment unit (140) is driven in a cylinder manner, but is not limited thereto, and the alignment unit (140) may be applied with various driving methods that can cause the pusher (141) to move linearly and reciprocally. For example, the pusher (141) may be linearly moved by receiving driving force from a driving motor, a piezoelectric material, etc.

[0098] The alignment unit (140) may include a control unit (not shown). The control unit may control the linear movement of the cylinder (142) by determining whether the cylinder (142) performs linear reciprocating movement, the linear movement distance of the cylinder (142), and the linear movement speed of the cylinder (142).

[0099] The jig unit (130) can perform linear reciprocating motion according to the force applied by the alignment unit (140).

[0100] In one embodiment, the jig unit (130) can move in the +Y-axis direction as the alignment unit (140) applies force to the jig unit (130) in the +Y-axis direction. Thereafter, the jig unit (130) can be coupled with the pusher (141) of the alignment unit (140) and returned to the -Y-axis direction.

[0101] The unloading unit (150) can discharge the jig unit (130) and the wire (W) to the soldering device (40). The unloading unit (150) can be placed above the wire (W) and the jig unit (130).

[0102] The unloading unit (150) moves in the -Z-axis direction during the process of absorbing the wire (W), and can move in the three-axis direction to transfer the absorbed wire (W) to the soldering device (40).

[0103] In one embodiment, the unloading unit (150) can move to pick the wire (W) and connect with the jig block (131). The unloading unit (150) can move in the -Z-axis direction to pick the wire (W) after the wire (W) is aligned by the alignment unit (140).

[0104] In one embodiment, the unloading unit (150) may include a body (151), a magnet portion (152), an adsorption portion (153), and an adsorption driving portion (154).

[0105] The body (151) forms the exterior of the unloading unit (150) and can support the magnet portion (152) and the suction portion (153).

[0106] The magnet part (152) is placed on the upper part of the jig unit (130), so that the jig unit (130) can be attached to the unloading unit (150).

[0107] The suction part (153) is arranged along the wire (W) and can pick the wire (W) by suction.

[0108] The suction drive unit (154) is connected to the suction unit (153), and when driven, air is sucked in, so that the wire (W) can be fixed to the suction unit (153).

[0109] The conveyor unit (160) can supply the jig unit (130) to a preset alignment position. The conveyor unit (160) can extend in the X-axis direction. The conveyor unit (160) can receive the jig unit (130) from the soldering device (40) at one end, move the jig unit (130) in the opposite direction of the other end, and supply the jig unit (130) to the alignment position.

[0110] The conveyor unit (160) can be positioned on top of the base plate (110) to provide a path along which the jig unit (130) can move. The jig unit (130) can be positioned in the first area (AR1) along the conveyor unit (160).

[0111] Specifically, the conveyor unit (160) can move the jig unit (130) above the second guide block (112) so that the contact end of the jig unit (130) comes into contact with the compression portion (WC) of the wire (W).

[0112] The conveyor units (160) can be arranged to face each other on both sides of the base plate (110). Since the base plate (110) is arranged between the conveyor units (160), the base plate (110) can be moved without interference from the conveyor units (160) when rising or falling.

[0113] The supply plate (170) can be used to place wires that have been processed, such as by compression and cutting. In one embodiment, the wire (W) placed on the supply plate (170) can be moved onto the base plate (110) via the loading unit (120).

[0114] Referring to FIG. 3 and FIG. 6, a guide plate (180) can be placed on one side of the jig unit (130) to guide the sliding movement of the jig unit (130).

[0115] The guide plate (180) is placed on the opposite side of the alignment unit (140), and can assist the sliding of the jig unit (130) when the jig unit (130) moves in the Y-axis direction by the alignment unit (140).

[0116] In one embodiment, the guide plate (180) has a Teflon coating layer to reduce friction of the jig block (131) of the jig unit (130).

[0117] A stopper (190) can be placed between the pusher (141) and the conveyor unit (160) to limit the movement of the jig unit (130). The stopper (190) can be placed on the opposite side of the guide plate (180).

[0118] As an example, referring to FIG. 9, the stopper (190) may be positioned so that its upper end protrudes from the conveyor unit (160) and partially overlaps the lower side of the jig block (131).

[0119] The stopper (190) can restrict the movement of the jig block (131) by contacting the lower part of the jig block (131) during the process of the jig unit (130) returning in the -Y-axis direction, thereby preventing the jig block (131) from moving beyond the stopper (190).

[0120] Additionally, since the stopper (190) limits the movement of the jig unit (130), the pusher (141) having magnetism can be separated from the jig block (131).

[0121] The transport device (100) may include a position confirmation unit (not shown). The position confirmation unit can confirm the position or arrangement of the wire (W) placed on the base plate (110). The position confirmation unit transmits the sensed position confirmation result to a control unit (not shown), so that the control unit can additionally determine whether realignment of the wire (W) is necessary.

[0122] In one embodiment, the positioning unit may correspond to an image sensor such as a camera or LIDAR capable of recognizing the position of the wire (W).

[0123] According to one embodiment of the present invention, a solar module manufacturing device (1) and a solar cell wire transport device (30, 100) can align solar cell wires, thereby increasing the productivity and reliability of solar modules. Since the solar module manufacturing device (1) and the solar cell wire transport device (30, 100) align compressed portions of solar cell wires before a soldering process, the compressed portions are arranged in a set position or direction during the process, thereby reducing wire breakage and cracking of solar cell modules occurring during the manufacturing process.

[0124] Specifically, a plurality of wires (W), each having a compressed portion (WC), must be arranged at a position or direction in which the compressed portion (WC) is set. For example, the flat portion of the compressed portion (WC) of each wire (W) must be arranged to face one direction. Since the compressed portion (WC) is arranged between the solar cells (C) in the soldering process, the compressed portions (WC) of the multiple wires (W) must be arranged in the same direction between the solar cells (C). If the compressed portions (WC) of the wires (W) are arranged in different directions, quality degradation, such as cracks, may occur in the solar module during the soldering process performed in the soldering device (40) or the subsequent lamination process.

[0125] The wire transport device (30, 100) for solar cells can improve productivity by aligning the compressed portion (WC) before transferring the wire (W) to the soldering device (40). The wire transport device (30, 100) for solar cells can align the compressed portion (WC) of the wire (W) in a set direction by applying force to the jig unit (130) by the alignment unit (140).

[0126] According to one embodiment of the present invention, the solar module manufacturing device (1) and the solar cell wire transport device (30, 100) can be applied by adding an alignment unit to a conventional solar module manufacturing device, so that the productivity of solar modules can be increased by simply improving the equipment.

[0127] FIG. 5 is a flowchart illustrating a method for manufacturing a solar module according to another embodiment of the present invention.

[0128] Referring to FIGS. 1 and 5, a method for manufacturing a solar module according to another embodiment of the present invention will be described in detail.

[0129] In step S510, the press device (10) can compress the solar cell wire (W) in a preset pattern.

[0130] The press device (10) can receive wire from the wire feeding device and compress the wire (W) into a preset pattern.

[0131] The press device (10) can compress the wire (W) in a portion where a plurality of solar cells overlap during a soldering process. The non-compressed portion (WR) of the wire (W) can be placed on the surface of the solar cell (C), and the compressed portion (WC) of the wire (W) can be placed in a space between adjacent solar cells (C).

[0132] In step S520, the cutting device (20) can cut the solar cell wire (W) to a preset length.

[0133] The cutting device (20) can cut the wire (W) having a compressed portion (WC) compressed by the press device (10) and an uncompressed portion (WR) that is not compressed, so that the wire has a preset length. The length of the wire (W) can be set differently depending on the size of the solar cell or the specifications of the solar module.

[0134] In step S530, the transport device (30) can align the solar cell wire (W) so that the compressed portion (WC) of the solar cell wire (W) has a preset arrangement.

[0135] The transport device (30) can align the misaligned solar cell wire (W) by applying force to the jig unit (J) for fixing the solar cell wire (W) through the alignment unit, thereby aligning the misaligned solar cell wire (W) in the compression portion (WC).

[0136] The process of aligning the wire (W) for solar cells is described in detail below.

[0137] In step S540, the transport device (30) can transfer the jig unit (J) and the aligned solar cell wire (W) to the soldering device (40).

[0138] The transport device (30) can transfer the jig unit (J) and the solar cell wire to the soldering device (40) through the unloading unit.

[0139] In one embodiment, the transport device (30) can transfer the jig unit and the solar cell wire (W) to the soldering device (40) by connecting the magnet unit and the jig unit included in the unloading unit and sucking the wire using the suction unit included in the unloading unit.

[0140] The process of transferring the jig unit (J) and the solar cell wire (W) to the soldering device (40) will be described in detail below.

[0141] In step S550, the soldering device (40) can receive the aligned solar cell wire (W) and solder the solar cell wire (W) to the solar cell (C).

[0142] The soldering device (40) can receive solar cells (C) from a solar cell feeding device. The soldering device (40) can receive wires (W) at preset locations above the solar cells (C). The soldering device (40) can electrically connect the solar cells (C) and the wires (W) through soldering.

[0143] When the wire (W) is placed on the solar cell (C), the transport device (30) can retrieve the jig unit (J). The jig unit (J) can be transferred back to the conveyor unit and moved to the alignment position.

[0144] Figures 6 to 10 are drawings illustrating the process of the solar cell wire transport device (100) of Figure 2 aligning and transporting the wire (W).

[0145] With reference to FIGS. 6 to 10, steps S530 and S540 of FIG. 5 will be described in detail below.

[0146] The transport device (30) can align the solar cell wire (W) so that the compressed portion (WC) of the solar cell wire (W) has a preset arrangement.

[0147] A wire (W) for a solar cell may be placed on the base plate (110). Specifically, the wire (W) may be placed on the first guide block (111) of the base plate (110).

[0148] Referring to FIG. 6, the wire (W) can be placed on the base plate (110) via the loading unit (120) of the transport device (100). By transporting the wire (W) using the loading unit (120), the wire (WA1) aligned at a preset position can be placed on the base plate (110).

[0149] However, during the wire transport process, misaligned wires (WT1) may be generated in the compressed portion (WC) of the wire. The misaligned wires (WT1) may cause cracks in the solar module during the soldering or lamination process that connects the wires (W) to multiple solar cells (C).

[0150] After the aligned wire (WA1) and the misaligned wire (WT1) are placed on the base plate (110) through the loading unit (120), the base plate (110) can be raised and lowered in the +Z-axis direction through the raising and lowering drive unit (113).

[0151] In one embodiment, the base plate (110) can be raised and lowered by a preset height (h5) in the +Z-axis direction through the raising and lowering drive unit (113) so that the aligned wire (WA1) and the misaligned wire (WT1) can come into contact with the jig unit (130).

[0152] The aligned wire (WA1) and the misaligned wire (WT1) can come into contact with the wire jig (132) of the jig unit (130) through the elevation of the base plate (110). The wire jig (132) can have a contact end (1321) come into contact with the aligned wire (WA1) and the misaligned wire (WT1).

[0153] The wire jig (132) is made of a metal material and has an empty space inside, so that it can have elasticity and shape restoring power. For example, when a misaligned wire (WT1) comes into contact with a contact end (1321) of the wire jig (132), a part of the wire jig (132) connected to the contact end (1321) that comes into contact with the misaligned wire (WT1) may be deformed. Accordingly, even if a misaligned wire (WT1) exists on the base plate (110), the wire jig (132) can come into contact with all wires (W), including the aligned wire (WA1) and the misaligned wire (WT1).

[0154] Referring to Fig. 7, the alignment unit (140) can apply force to the jig unit (130). The alignment unit (40) can apply force to one side of the jig block (131) with the pusher (141).

[0155] In one embodiment, the pusher (141) of the alignment unit (140) can be inserted into the jig groove (1311) of the jig unit (130). The jig block (131) can have the jig groove (1311) on one side facing the pusher (141). In one embodiment, the depth of the jig groove (1311) can be set to be greater than the length of the pusher (141). The jig groove (1311) can provide an area to which the pusher (141) applies force.

[0156] In one embodiment, the pusher (141) of the alignment unit (140) may be magnetic. When the pusher (141) and the jig block (131) come into contact, the jig block (131) may be connected to the pusher (141) by magnetic force.

[0157] In one embodiment, the alignment unit (140) may move a preset distance (d1) in the -Y-axis direction to apply force to the jig unit (130), and the jig unit (130) may move in the -Y-axis direction in response thereto. In addition, the alignment unit (140) may apply force to the jig unit (130) at a preset speed. Here, the preset distance (d1) may correspond to a distance obtained by adding a length corresponding to the depth of the jig groove (1311) and a distance between the pusher (141) and the jig block (131) before applying force.

[0158] Referring to FIG. 8, the misaligned wire (WT1) can be aligned by the alignment unit (140) applying force to the jig unit (130).

[0159] By aligning the misaligned wire (WT1) in the same arrangement as the aligned wire (WA2), the portion of the wire jig (132) that was deformed by the misaligned wire (WT1) can be restored to its state before contact.

[0160] As the alignment unit (140) applies force to the jig unit (130), the jig unit (130) can move in the same direction as the applying direction of the alignment unit (140). Specifically, as the alignment unit (140) applies force to the jig unit (130) in the -Y-axis direction, the jig unit (130) can also move in the -Y-axis direction.

[0161] The guide plate (180) is positioned on the opposite side of the jig unit (130) where the alignment unit (140) is located, so as to help prevent the jig unit (130) from moving out of a preset position range. In addition, since the guide plate (180) has a coating layer on its surface that guides sliding, it can guide the movement of the jig block (131) in the -Y-axis direction.

[0162] Referring to FIG. 9, after the wire is aligned by applying force to the jig unit (130), the alignment unit (140) and the jig unit (130) can return to their original state before applying force.

[0163] The alignment unit (140) can move a preset distance (d1) in the +Y-axis direction. Accordingly, the jig unit (130) connected to the pusher (141) of the alignment unit (140) by magnetic force can also move together with the alignment unit (140).

[0164] The stopper (190) can limit the movement of the jig unit (130) during the movement process of the jig unit (130) combined with the alignment unit (140).

[0165] Specifically, the stopper (190) is positioned so that the upper end protrudes from the conveyor unit (160) and partially overlaps the lower side of the jig block (131) so that it can come into contact with the jig unit (130) during the movement of the jig unit (130). Through this, the stopper (190) can restrict the movement of the jig block (131) so that the jig unit (130) does not move beyond the stopper (190) during the movement of the jig unit (130). At this time, since the stopper (190) restricts the movement of the jig unit (130), the pusher (141) can be separated from the jig block (131).

[0166] Referring to FIG. 10, the transport device (100) can transfer the jig unit (130) and the aligned solar cell wire (W) to the soldering device (40).

[0167] The unloading unit (150) can transport the jig unit (130) and the aligned wire to the soldering device (40). In one embodiment, the unloading unit (150) can move in the -Z-axis direction to transport the jig unit (130) and the wire to the soldering device (40).

[0168] The magnet unit (152) included in the unloading unit (150) can be connected to the jig unit (130) through magnetic force. In addition, the adsorption unit (153) can absorb air around the wire to adsorb the wire (W).

[0169] After the jig unit (130) is combined with the magnet part (152) and the adsorption part (153) adsorbs the wire (W), the unloading unit (150) can move in the three-axis direction to transfer the jig unit (130) and the adsorbed wire (W) to the soldering device (40).

[0170] According to one embodiment of the present invention, a method for manufacturing a solar module can improve the productivity and reliability of a solar module by aligning solar cell wires. Since the method aligns the compressed portions of the solar cell wires prior to the soldering process, the compressed portions are positioned in a predetermined position or direction during the process, thereby reducing wire breakage and cracking of the solar cell module that occur during the manufacturing process.

[0171] While the present invention has been described with reference to the embodiments illustrated in the drawings, these are merely exemplary, and those skilled in the art will understand that various modifications and equivalent alternative embodiments are possible. Therefore, the true scope of technical protection of the present invention should be determined by the technical spirit of the appended claims.

[0172] The specific implementations described in the examples are exemplary and do not limit the scope of the examples in any way. Furthermore, unless specifically stated as "essential," "important," or the like, an element may not be absolutely necessary for the application of the present invention.

[0173] The use of the term "above" and similar referential terms in the specification of embodiments (especially the claims) may refer to both singular and plural. Furthermore, if a range is described in the embodiments, it is intended that the invention includes the application of individual values ​​falling within the range (unless otherwise stated), and is equivalent to describing each individual value constituting the range in the detailed description. Finally, unless the order of steps constituting a method according to an embodiment is explicitly stated or otherwise stated to the contrary, the steps may be performed in any suitable order. The embodiments are not necessarily limited by the order in which the steps are described. The use of all examples or exemplary terms (e.g., "etc.") in the embodiments is merely intended to describe the embodiments in detail, and the scope of the embodiments is not limited by the examples or exemplary terms, unless otherwise defined by the claims. Furthermore, those skilled in the art will recognize that various modifications, combinations, and variations may be made within the scope of the appended claims or their equivalents, depending on design conditions and factors.

[0174] According to one embodiment of the present invention, the wire transport device for solar cells, the solar module manufacturing device, and the manufacturing method thereof can be applied to various industrially applicable devices. Furthermore, the wire transport device can be applied to various devices for manufacturing solar modules.

Claims

1. A base plate on which a solar cell wire having a compressed portion is arranged; A loading unit for loading the above wire and moving it to the base plate; A jig unit disposed on the upper portion of the base plate, overlapping the wire; An alignment unit that applies force to the jig unit so that the jig unit aligns the solar cell wire on the base plate; and A solar cell wire transport device, comprising an unloading unit for discharging the solar cell wire aligned with the jig unit.

2. In paragraph 1, The above sorting unit is, A pusher arranged on one side of the above jig unit; and A wire transport device for a solar cell, comprising a driving unit that provides a driving force so that the pusher moves linearly reciprocally toward the jig unit.

3. In paragraph 2, The above pusher, A wire transport device for solar cells, having magnetism and attached to one side of the jig unit.

4. In paragraph 2, The above sorting unit is, A wire transport device for a solar cell, further comprising a stopper disposed between the pusher and the base plate.

5. In paragraph 1, The above jig unit, A wire jig having a contact end that contacts the compressed portion of the solar cell wire; and Having a jig block placed on both sides of the above wire jig; The above sorting unit is, A wire transport device for a solar cell, which applies force to the jig block so that the compressed portion is aligned to a preset position.

6. In paragraph 5, The above jig block is, A wire transport device for a solar cell, having a jig groove positioned to face the pusher of the alignment unit, such that the pusher is inserted into the jig groove when the alignment unit is driven.

7. In paragraph 1, The above base plate, A first guide block having a first guide groove to align a plurality of the solar cell wires at a preset interval; and A solar cell wire transport device comprising a second guide block having a second guide groove into which the compressed portion of the solar cell wire is inserted.

8. In paragraph 1, The above loading unit, A solar cell wire transport device that moves a plurality of cut solar cell wires to the upper portion of the base plate and raises the base plate.

9. In paragraph 1, The above unloading unit, A magnet part that generates magnetic force and is connected to the jig block; and A solar cell wire transport device comprising: a suction unit arranged on top of the solar cell wire to pick up the solar cell wire.

10. In paragraph 1, The above transport device, A solar cell wire transport device further comprising a position confirmation unit disposed on the upper portion of the base plate and recognizing the position of the solar cell wire disposed on the base plate.

11. A press device that compresses solar cell wires in a preset pattern; A soldering device for connecting a plurality of solar cells with the solar cell wire; and A transport device is disposed between the press device and the soldering device, and aligns the solar cell wire from the base plate to the jig unit, and transfers the jig unit and the solar cell wire to the soldering device; The above transport device, A loading unit for loading the solar cell wire that has passed through the press device onto the base plate; A jig unit disposed on the upper portion of the base plate so as to overlap with the solar cell wire; An alignment unit that applies force to the jig unit so that the jig unit aligns the solar cell wire on the base plate; and A solar module manufacturing device comprising an unloading unit for unloading the solar cell wire aligned with the jig unit into the soldering device.

12. In paragraph 11, The above transport device, A solar module manufacturing device further comprising a conveyor unit for transferring the jig unit recovered from the soldering device to the base plate.

13. In paragraph 11, A solar module manufacturing device further comprising a cutting device disposed between the press device and the transport device, the cutting device cutting a solar cell wire having a compressed portion in a preset pattern.

14. In paragraph 11, The above sorting unit is, A pusher arranged on one side of the above jig unit; and A solar module manufacturing device comprising a driving unit that provides driving force so that the pusher moves linearly reciprocally toward the jig unit.

15. In paragraph 11, The above jig unit, A wire jig having a contact end that contacts the compressed portion of the solar cell wire; and Having a jig block placed on both sides of the above wire jig; The above sorting unit is, A solar module manufacturing device that applies force to the jig block so that the compressed portion is aligned to a preset position.

16. A step of compressing a solar cell wire in a preset pattern; A step of aligning the solar cell wires so that the compressed portions of the plurality of solar cell wires have a preset arrangement using a jig unit; and A method for manufacturing a solar module, comprising: receiving the aligned solar cell wire and soldering the solar cell and the solar cell wire.

17. In paragraph 16, The step of aligning the above solar cell wires is: a step of placing the jig unit on the base plate; and A method for manufacturing a solar module, comprising: a step of applying force to the jig unit using a pusher of an alignment unit; 18. In paragraph 16, The step of aligning the above solar cell wires is: A method for manufacturing a solar module, wherein the contact end of the jig unit is in contact with the compression portion, and the alignment unit applies force to the jig unit so that the compression portion is aligned to a preset position.

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