Circulating-Belt Lamination Spacer for Reduced Photovoltaic Edge Compression

A spacing device acts as an intermediary element between the membrane and the laminate edges. The spacing device comprises a support structure with spacing elements that extend into the membrane, creating a physical barrier that prevents the membrane from directly contacting and compressing the laminate edges while still allowing the membrane to apply pressure to the laminate surface for effective lamination.

The spacing device implements local quality by providing differential support: the laminate edges receive protective spacing while the central laminate area receives full membrane pressure. The spacing elements are strategically positioned only at critical edge regions where compression occurs, allowing the membrane to maintain full contact and pressure on the laminate body for effective lamination without causing edge damage.

The spacing device serves as a mediator that distributes and controls the transmission of pressure forces. By positioning spacing elements at the laminate edges, the device creates a graduated pressure distribution where the membrane pressure is gradually transmitted from the central region toward the edges, preventing sudden tensile force concentration that would cause delamination or breakage while still achieving effective bonding in the laminate body.

The spacing device provides beforehand cushioning by pre-positioning support elements at the laminate edges before the membrane is applied. This preemptive spacing structure cushions the laminate edges against the full force of membrane pressure, preventing the development of harmful tensile forces that would lead to delamination or breakage during the lamination process.