First Solar, Inc. Patent applications |
Patent application number | Title | Published |
20160126397 | Photovoltaic Device Including a Back Contact and Method of Manufacturing - A photovoltaic device includes a substrate, a transparent conductive oxide, an n-type window layer, a p-type absorber layer and an electron reflector layer. The electron reflector layer may include zinc telluride doped with copper telluride, zinc telluride alloyed with copper telluride, or a bilayer of multiple layers containing zinc, copper, cadmium and tellurium in various compositions. A process for manufacturing a photovoltaic device includes forming a layer over a substrate by at least one of sputtering, evaporation deposition, CVD, chemical bath deposition process, and vapor transport deposition process. The process includes forming an electron reflector layer over a p-type absorber layer. | 05-05-2016 |
20150236173 | PHOTOVALTAIC DEVICE CONDUCTING LAYER - A multilayered structure may include a doped buffer layer on a transparent conductive oxide layer. | 08-20-2015 |
20150187981 | Method for Deposition - Embodiments of the present invention include a method. The method includes producing a first vapor from a solid source material, reacting hydrogen telluride to form a second vapor comprising tellurium, and depositing on a support a coating material comprising tellurium within a deposition environment, the deposition environment comprising the first vapor and the second vapor. Another embodiment is a system. The system includes a deposition chamber disposed to contain a deposition environment in fluid communication with a support; a solid source material disposed in fluid communication with the deposition chamber; and a hydrogen telluride source in fluid communication in fluid communication with the deposition chamber. | 07-02-2015 |
20150160531 | Nanostructured Functional Coatings and Devices - In one aspect of the present invention, an article including a nanostructured functional coating disposed on a substrate is described. The functional coating is characterized by both anti-reflection properties and down-converting properties. Related optoelectronic devices are also described. | 06-11-2015 |
20150114824 | PHYSICAL VAPOR DEPOSITION TILE ARRANGEMENT AND PHYSICAL VAPOR DEPOSITION ARRANGEMENT - In various embodiments, a physical vapor deposition tile arrangement is provided. The physical vapor deposition tile arrangement may include a plurality of physical vapor deposition tiles arranged next to each other; and a resilient structure configured to press the plurality of physical vapor deposition tiles together. | 04-30-2015 |
20150072466 | Doping An Absorber Layer Of A Photovoltaic Device Via Diffusion From A Window Layer - Methods for doping an absorbent layer of a p-n heterojunction in a thin film photovoltaic device are provided. The method can include depositing a window layer on a transparent substrate, where the window layer includes at least one dopant (e.g., copper). A p-n heterojunction can be formed on the window layer, with the p-n heterojunction including a photovoltaic material (e.g., cadmium telluride) in an absorber layer. The dopant can then be diffused from the window layer into the absorber layer (e.g., via annealing). | 03-12-2015 |
20150040970 | Vacuum Deposition System For Solar Cell Production And Method Of Manufacturing - An inline vacuum deposition system contains thermal source pairs configured in adjacent deposition zones. Dopant sources allow the electrical characteristics of the sequentially formed layers to be controlled for a preferred deposition growth profile. | 02-12-2015 |
20150031164 | Vapor Deposition Apparatus for Continuous Deposition of Multiple Thin Film Layers on a Substrate - Vapor deposition apparatus for forming stacked thin films on discrete photovoltaic module substrates conveyed in a continuous non-stop manner through the apparatus are provided. The apparatus includes a first sublimation compartment positioned over a first deposition area of said apparatus, a second sublimation compartment positioned over a second deposition area of said apparatus, and an internal divider positioned therebetween and defining a middle seal member. An actuator is attached to the internal divider and is configured to move the internal divider to control intermixing of first source material vapors and second source material vapors within the first deposition area and the second deposition area. Methods are also generally provided for depositing stacked thin films on a substrate. | 01-29-2015 |
20150027372 | Vapor Deposition Apparatus for Continuous Deposition of Multiple Thin Film Layers on a Substrate - A vapor deposition apparatus to form stacked thin films on discrete photovoltaic module substrates conveyed in a continuous non-stop manner through said apparatus is provided. The apparatus includes a first sublimation compartment positioned over a first deposition area of said apparatus and a second sublimation compartment positioned over a second deposition area of said apparatus. The first sublimation compartment is configured to heat a first source material therein to sublimate the first source material into first source material vapors. A movable first shutter plate within the first sublimation compartment is configured to control the flow rate of the first source material vapors therethrough. Similarly, the second sublimation compartment is configured to heat a second source material therein to sublimate the second source material into second source material vapors, and includes a movable first shutter plate configured to control the flow rate of the second source material vapors therethrough. | 01-29-2015 |
20140374266 | METHOD AND APPARATUS FOR FORMING A CADMIUM ZINC TELLURIDE LAYER IN A PHOTOVOLTAIC DEVICE - A method and apparatus for controlling and changing the composition of a cadmium zinc telluride (CZT) transition layer as it is formed over a partially completed photovoltaic device using electrochemical deposition (ECD) where plating variables are systematically changed while the CZT transition layer is formed to change the composition of the plated CZT transition layer. | 12-25-2014 |
20140373917 | PHOTOVOLTAIC DEVICES AND METHOD OF MAKING - In one aspect of the present invention, a photovoltaic device is provided. The photovoltaic device includes a transparent layer; a first porous layer disposed on the transparent layer, wherein the first porous layer comprises a plurality of pores extending through a thickness of the first porous layer; a first semiconductor material disposed in the plurality of pores to form a patterned first semiconductor layer; and a second semiconductor layer disposed on the first porous layer and the patterned first semiconductor layer, wherein the patterned first semiconductor layer is substantially transparent. Method of making a photovoltaic device is also provided. | 12-25-2014 |
20140373908 | PHOTOVOLTAIC DEVICES - A photovoltaic device is presented. The photovoltaic device includes a layer stack; and an absorber layer is disposed on the layer stack. The absorber layer includes cadmium, tellurium, and selenium. A semiconductor layer is further disposed on the absorber layer, wherein a valence band offset between the semiconductor layer and the absorber layer is less than about 1.3 electron Volts, and a band gap of the semiconductor layer is in a range from about 1.2 electron Volts to about 3.5 electron Volts. | 12-25-2014 |
20140370649 | METHOD AND APPARATUS FOR FORMING COPPER(Cu) OR ANTIMONY(Sb) DOPED ZINC TELLURIDE AND CADMIUM ZINC TELLURIDE LAYERS IN A PHOTOVOLTAIC DEVICE - A method and apparatus for an amount of Cu or Sb dopant incorporated into a zinc-based layer as the layer is being formed. The layer is formed over a coated substrate using an electrochemical deposition (ECD) process. In the ECD process, the bias voltage and plating solution composition may be systematically changed during the electrochemical deposition process to change the amount of Cu or Sb dopant incorporated into the plated layer. | 12-18-2014 |
20140360565 | PHOTOVOLTAIC DEVICES AND METHOD OF MAKING - A photovoltaic device is presented. The photovoltaic device includes a layer stack; and an absorber layer is disposed on the layer stack. The absorber layer includes selenium, and an atomic concentration of selenium varies non-linearly across a thickness of the absorber layer. A method of making a photovoltaic device is also presented. | 12-11-2014 |
20140338722 | PHOTOVOLTAIC MODULES WITH A CONTROLLED COLOR ON THEIR WINDOW SURFACE AND ARRAYS THEREOF - Thin film photovoltaic devices are provided that include a transparent substrate defining an inner surface and an outer surface; a thin film stack on the inner surface of the transparent substrate; an encapsulation substrate on the thin film stack; and a color reflection film on the outer surface of the transparent substrate. The thin film stack has a photovoltaic heterojunction (e.g., formed from a n-type window thin film layer and an absorber thin film layer). Generally, the color reflection film comprises a colorant, such as a refractive material (e.g., a nitride material, an oxide material, or mixtures thereof). Methods are also provided for forming such a photovoltaic device, and for forming an array of photovoltaic devices to define an image. | 11-20-2014 |
20140326315 | PHOTOVOLTAIC DEVICES AND METHOD OF MAKING - A photovoltaic device is presented. The photovoltaic device includes a layer stack; and an absorber layer is disposed on the layer stack. The absorber layer comprises selenium, wherein an atomic concentration of selenium varies across a thickness of the absorber layer. The photovoltaic device is substantially free of a cadmium sulfide layer. | 11-06-2014 |
20140318602 | INTEGRATED POWER CONNECTORS FOR PV MODULES AND THEIR METHODS OF MANUFACTURE - Photovoltaic devices are provided that include a thin film stack (of a plurality of photovoltaic cells connected in series to each other) on a transparent substrate, a first busbar electrically connected to the first terminal cell, and a second busbar electrically connected to the second terminal cell. An encapsulation substrate is on the plurality of thin film layers and defines a first connection aperture positioned over the first busbar and a second connection aperture positioned over the second bus bar. A first electrical connector is positioned on the encapsulation substrate and is electrically connected to the first busbar through the first connection aperture, and a second electrical connector is positioned on the encapsulation substrate and is electrically connected to the second busbar through the second connection aperture. Solar arrays and kits are also provided that include such photovoltaic devices and a connection cable. | 10-30-2014 |
20140284750 | Photovoltaic Device Including A Back Contact And Method Of Manufacturing - A photovoltaic device includes a substrate, a transparent conductive oxide, an n-type window layer, a p-type absorber layer and an electron reflector layer. The electron reflector layer may include zinc telluride doped with copper telluride, zinc telluride alloyed with copper telluride, or a bilayer of multiple layers containing zinc, copper, cadmium and tellurium in various compositions. A process for manufacturing a photovoltaic device includes forming a layer over a substrate by at least one of sputtering, evaporation deposition, CVD, chemical bath deposition process, and vapor transport deposition process. The process includes forming an electron reflector layer over a p-type absorber layer. | 09-25-2014 |
20140273407 | Formulations And Methods For Surface Cleaning And Passivation of CdTe Substrates - Methods and compositions for the surface cleaning and passivation of CdTe substrates usable in solar cells are disclosed. In some embodiments amine-containing chelators are used and in other embodiments phosphorus-containing chelators are used. | 09-18-2014 |
20140273313 | METHOD AND APPARATUS PROVIDING INLINE PHOTOLUMINESCENCE ANALYSIS OF A PHOTOVOLTAIC DEVICE - A method and apparatus are disclosed which use a photoluminescent light intensity signature to characterize a processed photovoltaic substrate. | 09-18-2014 |
20140263902 | SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR MOUNTING PHOTOVOLTAIC MODULES - A support structure for orienting and supporting at least one solar panel includes a lock rail and a support rail that are engaged together through a locking mount. The locking mount has a retaining pin that permits the locking rail to be connected to the support rail without tools. The locking mount may provide a permanent or a releasable connection that retains the solar panel to the support structure. | 09-18-2014 |
20140261688 | HIGH EFFICIENCY PHOTOVOLTAIC DEVICE EMPLOYING CADMIUM SULFIDE TELLURIDE AND METHOD OF MANUFACTURE - A photovoltaic device is disclosed including at least one Cadmium Sulfide Telluride (CdS | 09-18-2014 |
20140261687 | METHOD OF REDUCING SEMICONDUCTOR WINDOW LAYER LOSS DURING THIN FILM PHOTOVOLTAIC DEVICE FABRICATION, AND RESULTING DEVICE STRUCTURE - A completed photovoltaic device and method forming it are described in which fluxing of a window layer into an absorber layer is mitigated by the presence of a sacrificial fluxing layer. | 09-18-2014 |
20140261686 | PHOTOVOLTAIC DEVICE WITH A ZINC OXIDE LAYER AND METHOD OF FORMATION - Photovoltaic devices with a zinc oxide layer replacing all or part of at least one of a window layer and a buffer layer, and methods of making the devices. | 09-18-2014 |
20140261685 | THIN FILM PHOTOVOLTAIC DEVICE WTIH LARGE GRAIN STRUCTURE AND METHODS OF FORMATION - Embodiments include photovoltaic devices that include at least one absorber layer, e.g. CdTe and/or CdS | 09-18-2014 |
20140261667 | PHOTOVOLTAIC DEVICE HAVING IMPROVED BACK ELECTRODE AND METHOD OF FORMATION - A back electrode for a PV device and method of formation are disclosed. A ZnTe material is provided over an absorber material and a MoN | 09-18-2014 |
20140248738 | Method of P-Type Doping of Cadmium Telluride - A method of p-type doping cadmium telluride (CdTe) is disclosed. The method comprising the steps of, (a) providing a first component comprising cadmium telluride (CdTe) comprising an interfacial region, and (b) subjecting the CdTe to a functionalizing treatment to obtain p-type doped CdTe, said functionalizing treatment comprising a thermal treatment of at least a portion of the interfacial region in the presence of a first material comprising a p-type dopant, and of a second material comprising a halogen. A method of making a photovoltaic cell is also disclosed. | 09-04-2014 |
20140246083 | PHOTOVOLTAIC DEVICES AND METHOD OF MAKING - A photovoltaic device is presented. The photovoltaic device includes a buffer layer disposed on a transparent conductive oxide layer; a window layer disposed on the buffer layer; and an interlayer interposed between the transparent conductive oxide layer and the window layer. The interlayer includes a metal species, wherein the metal species includes gadolinium, beryllium, calcium, barium, strontium, scandium, yttrium, hafnium, cerium, lutetium, lanthanum, or combinations thereof. A method of making a photovoltaic device is also presented | 09-04-2014 |
20140238849 | METHODS AND APPARATUS FOR CONTROLLING DOPANT CONCENTRATION IN THIN FILMS FORMED VIA SPUTTERING DEPOSITION - Sputtering chambers including one or more first sputtering targets within the sputtering chamber and one or more second sputtering targets are generally provided. Each first sputtering target comprises a source material, and each second sputtering target comprises the source material and a dopant. A conveyor system is configured to transport a plurality of substrates through the sputtering chamber to deposit a thin film onto a surface of each substrate. A power source is electrically connected to each of the first sputtering targets and the second sputtering target. A target shield can also be included within the sputtering chamber, and can be positioned between a portion of the second sputtering target and the conveyor system. The dopant can be present within the second sputtering target as a discrete insert within a cavity defined by the source material. Methods are also provided for making a sputtering target and depositing a thin film. | 08-28-2014 |
20140231945 | TEMPERATURE-ADJUSTED SPECTROMETER - A temperature-adjusted spectrometer can include a light source and a temperature sensor. | 08-21-2014 |
20140220727 | Methods of Making Photovoltaic Devices - A method of making a photovoltaic device is presented. The method includes disposing an absorber layer on a window layer. The method further includes treating at least a portion of the absorber layer with a first solution including a first metal salt to form a first component, wherein the first metal salt comprises a first metal selected from the group consisting of manganese, cobalt, chromium, zinc, indium, tungsten, molybdenum, and combinations thereof. The method further includes treating at least a portion of the first component with cadmium chloride to form a second component. The method further includes treating at least a portion of the second component with a second solution including a second metal salt to form an interfacial layer on the second component, wherein the second metal salt comprises a second metal selected from the group consisting of manganese, cobalt, nickel, zinc, and combinations thereof. | 08-07-2014 |
20140216550 | Photovoltaic Device Including a P-N Junction and Method of Manufacturing - A photovoltaic device includes a substrate structure and a p-type semiconductor absorber layer, the substrate structure including a CdSSe layer. A photovoltaic device may alternatively include a CdSeTe layer. A process for manufacturing a photovoltaic device includes forming a CdSSe layer over a substrate by at least one of sputtering, evaporation deposition, CVD, chemical bath deposition process, and vapor transport deposition process. The process includes forming a p-type absorber layer above the CdSSe layer. | 08-07-2014 |
20140216542 | SEMICONDUCTOR MATERIAL SURFACE TREATMENT WITH LASER - A photovoltaic device and its method of manufacture are disclosed. The device is formed by forming a window layer over a substrate, forming an absorber layer over the window layer, and annealing the absorber layer using a laser beam to remove contaminants from the surface of the absorber layer and/or to reduce the thickness of the absorber layer. | 08-07-2014 |
20140216535 | PHOTOVOLTAIC DEVICE WITH PROTECTIVE LAYER OVER A WINDOW LAYER AND METHOD OF MANUFACTURE OF THE SAME - A photovoltaic device including a protective layer between a window layer and an absorber layer, the protective layer inhibiting dissolving/intermixing of the window layer into the absorber layer during a device activation step, and methods of forming such photovoltaic devices. | 08-07-2014 |
20140202524 | PHOTOVOLTAIC MODULE GROUND MOUNT - A photovoltaic module ground mounting system can include a collapsible photovoltaic module mounting assembly framework. | 07-24-2014 |
20140186975 | METHOD AND SYSTEM FOR IN-LINE REAL-TIME MEASUREMENTS OF LAYERS OF MULTILAYERED FRONT CONTACTS OF PHOTOVOLTAIC DEVICES AND CALCULATION OF OPTO-ELECTRONIC PROPERTIES AND LAYER THICKNESSES THEREOF - A method and system for real-time, in-line calculations of opto-electronic properties and thickness of the layers of multi-layered transparent conductive oxide stacks of photovoltaic devices is provided. The method and system include taking measurements of each layer of the stack during deposition thereof. The measurements are then used to calculate the opto-electronic properties and thicknesses of the layers in real-time. | 07-03-2014 |
20140185061 | METHOD AND SYSTEM FOR IN-LINE REAL-TIME CALCULATION OF THICKNESSES OF SEMICONDUCTOR LAYERS OF A PHOTOVOLTAIC DEVICE - A method and system for real-time, in-line measurements of thicknesses of semiconductor layers of photovoltaic devices is provided. The method and system include taking ex-situ optical data measurements after deposition of the semiconductor layers. The measurements are then used to calculate the thicknesses of the layers in real-time using optical modeling software. | 07-03-2014 |
20140174533 | SOLAR MODULE WITH LIGHT-TRANSMISSIVE EDGE SEAL - A solar module with a front support, a back support, and a photovoltaic active material located between the front and back supports. An electrically insulative light transmissive seal is located at the peripheral edges of the front support and back support to electrically isolate the active material from the outer surfaces of the solar module. | 06-26-2014 |
20140170801 | METHODS OF FABRICATING A PHOTOVOLTAIC MODULE, AND RELATED SYSTEM - A method of processing a semiconductor assembly is presented. The method includes fabricating a photovoltaic module including a semiconductor assembly. The fabrication step includes performing an efficiency enhancement treatment on the semiconductor assembly, wherein the efficiency enhancement treatment includes light soaking the semiconductor assembly, and heating the semiconductor assembly. The semiconductor assembly includes a window layer having an average thickness less than about 80 nanometers, wherein the window layer includes cadmium and sulfur. A related system is also presented. | 06-19-2014 |
20140166088 | PHOTOVOLTAIC DEVICE - An article, such as a photovoltaic device, and methods for making such articles, are provided. For example, one embodiment is an article comprising a plurality of layers comprising an absorber layer and a window stack. The window stack comprises antimony. | 06-19-2014 |
20140127889 | SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR DEPOSITING A MATERIAL ON A SUBSTRATE - A method and apparatus for depositing a film on a substrate includes introducing a material and a carrier gas into a heated chamber. The material may be a semiconductor material, such as a cadmium chalcogenide. A resulting mixture of vapor and carrier gas containing no unvaporized material is provided. The mixture of vapor and carrier gas are remixed to achieve a uniform vapor/carrier gas composition, which is directed toward a surface of a substrate, such as a glass substrate, where the vapor is deposited as a uniform film. | 05-08-2014 |
20140104616 | FLUX MONITOR - A flux monitor system includes a light source and a sensor. | 04-17-2014 |
20140103580 | SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR REMOVING COATING FROM AN EDGE OF A SUBSTRATE - A coating-removal apparatus may include a source positioned on a mounting plate, and operable to emit a laser beam at a first path, where the mounting plate is configured to receive an edge of a photovoltaic module in a designated region substantially proximate to the mounting plate, such that the first path intersects the designated region, and where the mounting plate is further configured to reposition the source to create an additional path that intersects with the designated region, where the additional path is distinct from the first path. | 04-17-2014 |
20140102537 | PHOTOVOLTAIC MODULE - A layer for use in a photovoltaic module may include an interlayer and one or more corrosion barriers adjacent to an electrically conductive layer. | 04-17-2014 |
20140087075 | SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR DEPOSITION OF A MATERIAL ON A SUBSTRATE - A method and apparatus for improving coating of a substrate. | 03-27-2014 |
20140083505 | VARYING CADMIUM TELLURIDE GROWTH TEMPERATURE DURING DEPOSITION TO INCREASE SOLAR CELL RELIABILITY - A method for forming thin films or layers of cadmium telluride (CdTe) for use in photovoltaic modules or solar cells. The method includes varying the substrate temperature during the growth of the CdTe layer by preheating a substrate (e.g., a substrate with a cadmium sulfide (CdS) heterojunction or layer) suspended over a CdTe source to remove moisture to a relatively low preheat temperature. Then, the method includes directly heating only the CdTe source, which in turn indirectly heats the substrate upon which the CdTe is deposited. The method improves the resulting CdTe solar cell reliability. The resulting microstructure exhibits a distinct grain size distribution such that the initial region is composed of smaller grains than the bulk region portion of the deposited CdTe. Resulting devices exhibit a behavior suggesting a more n-like CdTe material near the CdS heterojunction than devices grown with substrate temperatures held constant during CdTe deposition. | 03-27-2014 |
20140065731 | IN-LINE METROLOGY SYSTEM - A metrology system for gauging and spatially mapping a semiconductor material on a substrate can be used in controlling deposition and thermal activation processes. | 03-06-2014 |
20140057389 | PHOTOVOLTAIC BACK CONTACT - A method to preparing Cadmium telluride surface before forming metal back contact is disclosed. The method can include removing carbon from Cadmium telluride surface. | 02-27-2014 |
20140051206 | METHOD AND APPARATUS PROVIDING MULTI-STEP DEPOSITION OF THIN FILM LAYER - A multi-stage method and apparatus for vaporizing and depositing a tellurium containing semiconductor material on a substrate. | 02-20-2014 |
20140008662 | PHOTOVOLTAIC DEVICES INCLUDING HETEROJUNCTIONS - A photovoltaic cell including a first semiconductor layer that includes a III-V compound semiconductor, the first semiconductor layer positioned over a transparent conductive layer, and a second semiconductor layer that includes a II-VI compound semiconductor, the second semiconductor layer positioned between the first semiconductor layer and a back metal contact. The photovoltaic cell further includes an interfacial layer between the first and second semiconductor layers that enhances a rectifying junction formed between the III-V and II-VI compound semiconductor materials. | 01-09-2014 |
20140000649 | PHOTOVOLTAIC SUBSTRATE CLEANING SYSTEM AND METHOD | 01-02-2014 |
20130327391 | APPARATUS AND METHOD FOR IMPROVING EFFICIENCY OF THIN-FILM PHOTOVOLTAIC DEVICES - A method for producing apparatus for producing and photovoltaic device including semiconductor layers with halide heat treated surfaces that increase grain growth within at least one of the semiconductor layers and improve the interface between the semiconductor layers. The halide heat treatment includes applying and heating multiple coatings of a halide compound on surfaces adjacent to or part of the semiconductor layers. | 12-12-2013 |
20130314093 | METHOD AND SYSTEM EMPLOYING A SOLUTION CONTACT FOR MEASUREMENT - An inline metrology method and system using an electrolytic cell for measuring electrical characteristics of a semiconductor device, such as a photovoltaic device, during manufacture. | 11-28-2013 |
20130313900 | SYSTEM AND METHOD OF IN SITU SOLAR MODULE BIASING - A system and method for biasing one or more arrays of photovoltaic modules. An array of biasing photovoltaic modules is coupled to an array of photovoltaic modules to be biased. The coupling may be via a current regulating device. The array of biasing photovoltaic modules and current regulating device provide a forward bias current to the array of photovoltaic modules to be biased. The array of biasing photovoltaic modules includes more photovoltaic modules than the array of photovoltaic modules to be biased. | 11-28-2013 |
20130312824 | METHOD OF PROVIDING CHLORIDE TREATMENT FOR A PHOTOVOLTAIC DEVICE AND A CHLORIDE TREATED PHOTOVOLTAIC DEVICE - A method of manufacturing a photovoltaic device including depositing a cadmium telluride layer onto a substrate; treating the cadmium telluride layer with a compound comprising chlorine and an element from Groups 1-11, zinc, mercury, or copernicium or a combination thereof; and annealing the cadmium telluride layer. A chloride-treated photovoltaic device. | 11-28-2013 |
20130298992 | PHOTOVOLTAIC DEVICE - A method to improve CdTe-based photovoltaic device efficiency is disclosed. The CdTe-based photovoltaic device can include oxygen or silicon in semiconductor layers. | 11-14-2013 |
20130270744 | SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR REMOVING COATING FROM AN EDGE OF A SUBSTRATE - A coating-removal apparatus may include a source positioned on a mounting plate, and operable to emit a laser beam at a first path, where the mounting plate is configured to receive an edge of a photovoltaic module in a designated region substantially proximate to the mounting plate, such that the first path intersects the designated region, and where the mounting plate is further configured to reposition the source to create an additional path that intersects with the designated region, where the additional path is distinct from the first path. | 10-17-2013 |
20130267060 | APPARATUS AND METHOD FOR FORMING A TRANSPARENT CONDUCTIVE OXIDE LAYER OVER A SUBSTRATE USING A LASER - An apparatus and method for converting an amorphous transparent conductive oxide to a crystalline form with the assistance of irradiation of a laser. | 10-10-2013 |
20130255999 | METHOD AND APPARATUS FOR PROVIDING A CONDUCTOR INTERFACE FOR A PHOTOVOLTAIC MODULE - Described embodiments provide a conductor interface for a photovoltaic module that includes a raised feature on a bottom surface. Methods of forming such structures are also disclosed, as are photovoltaic modules containing the conductor interface. | 10-03-2013 |
20130245846 | CONTROL SYSTEM FOR PHOTOVOLTAIC POWER PLANT - A control system for a photovoltaic (“PV”) power plant that includes a plant-level control system for implementing plant-level control functions at power generation sites of the plant, a supervisory system for supervisory control and data acquisition of the plant, and a communications network connecting the plant-level control system, the supervisory system, and plant devices is described. Methods of controlling a PV plant using the plant-level control system and the supervisory system and methods of regulating power characteristics in power generation sites are also described. | 09-19-2013 |
20130234523 | METHOD AND APPARATUS PROVIDING POINT OF INTERCONNECTION CONTROL FOR POWER PLANTS - A method and apparatus to control power output of a power plant. A control module includes a plurality of controllers for different power parameters of the power plant and a master controller. The plurality of controllers receive measured parameters from the power plant, compare the received parameters with received set points, and provide respective reactive power commands to the power plant. The master controller determines which of the plurality of controllers is to be enabled to output a reactive power command to the power plant. | 09-12-2013 |
20130230945 | METHOD AND APPARATUS FOR FORMING A TRANSPARENT CONDUCTIVE OXIDE USING HYDROGEN - A method and apparatus for forming a crystalline cadmium stannate layer of a photovoltaic device by heating an amorphous layer in the presence of hydrogen gas. | 09-05-2013 |
20130213814 | FILM INSPECTION METHOD - A method for forming a defect marker on a thin film of a photovoltaic device by plating to detect pinholes and/or electrical shunts during device fabrication is disclosed. Also disclosed is a system for implementing such a method. | 08-22-2013 |
20130206738 | IN SITU INDUCTIVE ABLATION METER - Real time monitoring and detection of the depths of laser scribes used during pulsed laser ablation processes. During a laser scribing process, sensors are used to determine in real time an amount of ablated material from a substrate undergoing the process. Laser scribing can be terminated when the amount of ablated material as detected by the sensors corresponds to a desired scribe depth. | 08-15-2013 |
20130206065 | IN SITU SUBSTRATE DETECTION FOR A PROCESSING SYSTEM USING INFRARED DETECTION - Infrared detection is used to monitor the temperature within a vapor transport deposition processing chamber. Changes in temperature that occur when a substrate passes an infrared detector are detected and used to precisely locate a position of the substrate within the chamber. Position correction of the substrate can also be implemented. | 08-15-2013 |
20130203202 | INTEGRATED VAPOR TRANSPORT DEPOSITION METHOD AND SYSTEM - vapor transport deposition system and method that includes a vaporizer and distributor unit and at least one auxiliary process unit for integrating thin-film layer deposition with one or more pre- or post-deposition processes. | 08-08-2013 |
20130200234 | MOUNTING CLAMP AND MOUNTING CLAMP CONFIGURATION FOR PHOTOVOLTAIC MODULE INSTALLATION - Disclosed are photovoltaic module mounting assemblies with mounting clamps for connecting multiple photovoltaic modules into a photovoltaic array. One embodiment of the mounting assembly includes mounting clamps that are positioned on the mounting assembly parallel to the scribe lines of the module. Another embodiment of the mounting assembly uses mounting clamps that are configured to hold a portion of the module at a predetermined distance away from the photovoltaic cells of the module. | 08-08-2013 |
20130196466 | METHOD AND APPARATUS FOR PRODUCING A TRANSPARENT CONDUCTIVE OXIDE - A method and apparatus for manufacturing a multi-layered structure includes forming a crystalline layer of a material by depositing an amorphous layer of the material on a heated substrate. | 08-01-2013 |
20130193297 | SLIDER CLIP AND PHOTOVOLTAIC STRUCTURE MOUNTING SYSTEM - Described herein is a mounting system and slider clips that support simplified installation of photovoltaic structures. The mounting system comprises a support structure which can be mounted to support columns via an optional tilt table. The support structure comprises a plurality of parallel spaced beams and a plurality of parallel spaced rails that are mounted approximately perpendicular to the beams. Disclosed embodiments describe a collapsible support structure in which the rails are pivotally mounted to the beams. Rails are preassembled with prefabricated slider clips for holding edge portions of the photovoltaic structures. Rails can also be integrally formed with slider clips. Described herein are also methods of installing one or more photovoltaic structures using the mounting system and methods for manufacturing slider clips and a photovoltaic structure mounting system. | 08-01-2013 |
20130189635 | METHOD AND APPARATUS PROVIDING SEPARATE MODULES FOR PROCESSING A SUBSTRATE - A method and apparatus for heat treating a photovoltaic device. The apparatus includes a heating module, a processing module, and a cooling module in which the operating temperatures of the modules may be controlled separately. The heating module is configured to pre-heat a substrate and stabilize the substrate at the desired target temperature, the processing module is configured to thermally process the substrate, and the cooling module is configured for post-treatment cooling of the substrate. | 07-25-2013 |
20130186453 | MITIGATING PHOTOVOLTAIC MODULE STRESS DAMAGE THROUGH CELL ISOLATION - Described herein is a photovoltaic module and method of manufacturing a photovoltaic module to isolate potentially stress-damaged portions of cells from non-stress-damaged portions thereof. The module has a plurality of columnar photovoltaic cells, and at least one isolation scribe at a first edge of an active area of the photovoltaic module and extending across a photovoltaic cell in a direction perpendicular to a length of the columnar cells, where the at least one isolation scribe is deep enough to electrically isolate portions of the photovoltaic cell on opposite sides of the at least one isolation scribe. | 07-25-2013 |
20130183794 | METHOD AND SYSTEM OF PROVIDING DOPANT CONCENTRATION CONTROL IN DIFFERENT LAYERS OF A SEMICONDUCTOR DEVICE - A method and system for controlling the amount of a second material incorporated into a first material by controlling the amount of a third material which can interact with the second material. | 07-18-2013 |
20130180579 | PHOTOVOLTAIC DEVICE HAVING AN ABSORBER MULTILAYER AND METHOD OF MANUFACTURING THE SAME - A photovoltaic device having an absorber multilayer and methods of manufacturing the same are described. The absorber multilayer, which is formed adjacent to a window layer, may include a doped first cadmium telluride layer which contains a first dopant and an intrinsic second cadmium telluride layer. The absorber multilayer may further include at least a third cadmium telluride layer formed adjacent to a back contact. The at least third cadmium telluride layer may include doped or intrinsic cadmium telluride. | 07-18-2013 |
20130180568 | PHOTOVOLTAIC MODULE SUPPORT SYSTEM - A support system for a solar panel includes a triangular truss with connection points for mounting a photovoltaic module, and a cradle structure that supports the triangular truss and is connected to at least two side supports of the triangular truss. The cradle structure may be driven for rotation about an axis for tracking the sun and several cradle structures can be linked together for tracking movement using a buried linkage system. The truss may also be foldable for ease of transportation and storage. | 07-18-2013 |
20130153031 | PHOTOVOLTAIC DEVICE WITH AN ANTI-REFLECTIVE SURFACE AND METHODS OF MANUFACTURING SAME - A photovoltaic device comprising a substrate which has a porous first surface and a transparent conductive oxide layer located on a second surface opposite the first surface. A method of manufacturing the device is also described. | 06-20-2013 |
20130146576 | METHOD AND APPARATUS FOR PHOTOVOLTAIC DEVICE MANUFACTURE - A apparatus and method for manufacturing a photovoltaic module includes components for heating the module and applying an electrical bias to the module to improve photovoltaic module performance and manufacture multiple photovoltaic modules with similar performance. | 06-13-2013 |
20130143352 | PHOTOVOLTAIC DEVICES INCLUDING MG-DOPED SEMICONDUCTOR FILMS - A photovoltaic cell can include a dopant in contact with a semiconductor layer. | 06-06-2013 |
20130130475 | VAPOR TRANSPORT DEPOSITION METHOD AND SYSTEM FOR MATERIAL CO-DEPOSITION - An improved feeder system and method for continuous vapor transport deposition that includes at least two vaporizers couple to a common distributor through an improved seal for separately vaporizing and collecting at least any two vaporizable materials for deposition as a material layer on a substrate. Multiple vaporizer provide redundancy and allow for continuous deposition during vaporizer maintenance and repair. | 05-23-2013 |
20130130433 | METHOD AND APPARATUS PROVIDING SINGLE STEP VAPOR CHLORIDE TREATMENT AND PHOTOVOLTAIC MODULES - A method and apparatus are disclosed in which cadmium chloride is deposited on a cadmium telluride layer while simultaneously heat treating the cadmium telluride layer. | 05-23-2013 |
20130125975 | CONDUCTOR INTERFACE - Disclosed embodiments include a photovoltaic module including a conductor interface for electrically connecting tabs of internal module wiring with external conductors, where the conductor interface includes retention surfaces for retaining the tabs and external conductors in an electrically connected position. Methods of manufacturing a photovoltaic module are also disclosed. | 05-23-2013 |
20130121370 | METHOD AND APPARATUS PROVIDING TEMPERATURE UNIFORMITY - A temperature uniformity device controls the temperature and temperature uniformity of an object such as a photovoltaic module undergoing testing. The temperature uniformity device includes a thermal conductivity device and a pliable thermally conductive interface material inserted between the object and the thermal conductivity device. | 05-16-2013 |
20130118544 | METHOD AND APPARATUS PROVIDING ELECTRICAL CONNECTION TO A PHOTOVOLTAIC MODULE - Disclosed embodiments include photovoltaic modules having a conductor interface and a heat-activated adhesive layer configured to bond the conductor interface to the module. Methods of manufacturing photovoltaic modules having a conductor interface and heat-activated adhesive layer are also disclosed. | 05-16-2013 |
20130112288 | SYSTEM AND METHOD PROVIDING A HEATER-ORIFICE AND HEATING ZONE CONTROLS FOR A VAPOR DEPOSITION SYSTEM - A system and method employing a heater-orifice may be used to heat a flow path and to control the supply of vapor from a vaporizable material to an object. Variable or constant diameter heating rods may be used to apply heat to a flow path in order to control the supply of vapor from a vaporizable material. A baffle plate may be used to control the vapor pressure and vapor flow from a vessel containing a vaporizable material. The heater-orifice, heating rods, and baffle plate may be used alone or in combination with one another to control the flow of vaporizable material. | 05-09-2013 |
20130104982 | ULTRASONICALLY-WELDED JUNCTION BOX | 05-02-2013 |
20130098435 | HYBRID CONTACT FOR AND METHODS OF FORMATION OF PHOTOVOLTAIC DEVICES - Described herein is a contact for a photovoltaic device and method of making the same. The contact has a transparent conductive oxide stack, where a first portion of the transparent conductive oxide stack is formed by atmospheric pressure vapor deposition and a second portion of the transparent conductive oxide stack is formed by physical vapor deposition. | 04-25-2013 |
20130098433 | PHOTOVOLTAIC DEVICE AND METHOD OF FORMATION - An improved photovoltaic device and methods of manufacturing the same that includes an interface layer adjacent to a semiconductor absorber layer, where the interface layer includes a material in the semiconductor layer which decreases in concentration from the side of the interface layer contacting the absorber layer to an opposite side of the interface layer. | 04-25-2013 |
20130095601 | DEPOSITION CHAMBER CLEANING SYSTEM AND METHOD - An in-situ method of cleaning a vacuum deposition chamber can include flowing at least one reactive gas into the chamber. | 04-18-2013 |
20130095577 | SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR MEASURING LAYER THICKNESS AND DEPOSITING SEMICONDUCTOR LAYERS - Described herein is a method and apparatus for measuring the thickness of a deposited semiconductor material. A colorimeter has an optical source that illuminates a portion of a deposited semiconductor material with optical radiation, a sensor that collects and measures color information related to reflected radiation from the deposited semiconductor material, and a processor that receives the color information related to the reflected radiation from the sensor and calculates a thickness of the semiconductor material. The processor may control a semiconductor material deposition apparatus. | 04-18-2013 |
20130089948 | VAPOR TRANSPORT DEPOSITION METHOD AND SYSTEM FOR MATERIAL CO-DEPOSITION - An improved feeder system and method for vapor transport deposition that includes at least two vaporizers couple to a common distributor for vaporizing and co-depositing at least any two vaporizable materials as a material layer on a substrate. Composition of the material layer can be controlled by changing the flow of vapors from the respective vaporizers into the distributor to adjust the proportion of respective vapors in the combined vapor prior to deposition. Flow of the vapors from the respective vaporizers into the distributor may be controlled by adjusting the flow of carrier gas transporting the raw material into the vaporizer and/or by adjusting the vibration speed and/or amplitude of the powder feeders that process the raw material. | 04-11-2013 |
20130088329 | LIGHTABLE BRACELET SYSTEMS - A smart bracelet system having a first smart bracelet and second smart bracelet. The first smart bracelet comprises a first bracelet body having a first inner volume; a first attacher; a first pocket; a first powerer; a first chip; and a first illuminator. The second smart bracelet comprising; a second bracelet body having a second inner volume; a second attacher; a second pocket; a second powerer; a second chip; and a second illuminator. The first smart bracelet and the second smart bracelet are in communication with one another. The communication uses electromagnetic waves useful to enable communication between the bracelet during periods of darkness; thus tracking means are presented. | 04-11-2013 |
20130084670 | PHOTOVOLTAIC DEVICE - A moisture trapping filler composition may include a filler material combined with a desiccant material. | 04-04-2013 |
20130076367 | SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR ESTIMATING THE SHORT CIRCUIT CURRENT OF A SOLAR DEVICE - Described herein is a method and system for determining a short-circuit current of a solar device before the solar device is tested in a solar simulator. A solar device includes a substrate layer, a front contact layer, a window/emitter layer, an absorber layer and a back contact. A thickness of the window/emitter layer and an absorption wavelength of the absorber layer are determined. The window/emitter layer thickness and absorber layer absorption wavelength are used with a fitting parameter that corresponds to transmission properties of the substrate and first contact layers in order to determine the solar device's short-circuit current. | 03-28-2013 |
20130032199 | PHOTOVOLTAIC MODULE - A photovoltaic module conductor supporting structure that can be used to secure the conductor during manufacturing and in some situations to seal the terminal-area opening. | 02-07-2013 |
20120125395 | METHOD AND APPARATUS FACILITATING ELECTRICAL INTERCONNECTION OF A PLURALITY OF SOLAR MODULES - A method and apparatus to facilitate electrical interconnection of solar modules by using a wiring assembly having a plurality of conductors, each having one end connector and a plurality of spaced connection structures, each spaced structure for facilitating an electrical connection of at least one of the conductors with a respective solar module. The wiring assembly is mounted adjacent a plurality of solar modules such that the plurality of spaced connection structures are associated with respective electrical connections on a solar module to facilitate connection of the solar modules to the wiring assembly. | 05-24-2012 |
20120067422 | PHOTOVOLTAIC DEVICE WITH A METAL SULFIDE OXIDE WINDOW LAYER - Methods and devices are described for a photovoltaic device and substrate structure. In one embodiment, a photovoltaic device includes a substrate structure and a MS | 03-22-2012 |
20120067421 | PHOTOVOLTAIC DEVICE WITH A ZINC MAGNESIUM OXIDE WINDOW LAYER - Methods and devices are described for a photovoltaic device and substrate structure. In one embodiment, a photovoltaic device includes a substrate structure and a CdTe absorber layer, the substrate structure including a Zn | 03-22-2012 |
20120038385 | IN-PROCESS MEASUREMENT APPARATUS - An in-process measurement apparatus can be used to determine characteristics of a photovoltaic module. Capacitance measurements of the photovoltaic module are conducted before, during, or after execution of a high-potential leakage test, a performance test, or other tests of the module. The capacitance measurements are used to determine the characteristics of the photovoltaic module, including information regarding depletion width, doping density, film layer thickness, trap concentrations and absorber thickness. The apparatus can also be used to ensure that photovoltaic modules conform to product specifications. | 02-16-2012 |
20120018122 | Furnace and a Method for Cooling a Furnace - A furnace for conducting a high temperature process under oxidising conditions comprises an outer shell made from a metal, one or more cooling channels formed on or joined to the outer shell and a furnace lining. The furnace lining comprises a backing lining comprising a relatively high thermal conductivity layer positioned adjacent to an inner wall of the outer shell and a working lining positioned inwardly of the layer of relatively high thermal conductivity. The backing lining can comprise a graphite lining or a graphite-containing lining. The rate of heat transfer through the backing lining is sufficiently high to form a protective freeze on the backing lining in the event that the working lining wears away. | 01-26-2012 |
20110237021 | PHOTOVOLTAIC MODULE MANUFACTURE - A method for manufacturing a photovoltaic module including a laminating step. | 09-29-2011 |
20110223710 | Deposition Chamber Cleaning System and Method - An in-situ method of cleaning a vacuum deposition chamber can include flowing at least one reactive gas into the chamber. | 09-15-2011 |
20110214725 | PHOTOVOLTAIC DEVICE WITH GRADED BUFFER LAYER - A photovoltaic device can include a graded bandgap buffer layer. | 09-08-2011 |
20110212256 | DEPOSITION RATE CONTROL - An vapor deposition control system includes a multi-level control scheme. | 09-01-2011 |
20110204909 | SOLAR MODULE TEST CONTROL - A method for conditioning a photovoltaic module for testing includes setting an effective irradiance of a continuous light source at a target plane, configuring a test photovoltaic module to operate at a substantially maximum power point configuration, positioning the test photovoltaic module adjacent to the target plane, and configuring the test photovoltaic module for testing by removing the light source, cooling the test module to a testing temperature, and reversing the substantially maximum power point configuration. | 08-25-2011 |
20110203655 | PHOTOVOLTAIC DEVICE PROTECTION LAYER - A photovoltaic structure can include a protective cap, which can include sodium. | 08-25-2011 |
20110165315 | Flux Monitor - A flux monitor system includes a light source and a sensor. | 07-07-2011 |
20110162715 | SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR REMOVING COATING FROM AN EDGE OF A SUBSTRATE - A coating-removal apparatus may include a source positioned on a mounting plate, and operable to emit a laser beam at a first path, where the mounting plate is configured to receive an edge of a photovoltaic module in a designated region substantially proximate to the mounting plate, such that the first path intersects the designated region, and where the mounting plate is further configured to reposition the source to create an additional path that intersects with the designated region, where the additional path is distinct from the first path. | 07-07-2011 |
20110155182 | HIGH PRESSURE CLEANER - A method for cleaning a semiconductor material from a photovoltaic module manufacturing component can include enclosing the component and directing a liquid stream at the component. | 06-30-2011 |
20110147579 | PARTICULATE MONITORING - A method for monitoring a quantity of a particle in a sample of air may include heating a particle to form a vapor; detecting the particle; measuring a change in quantity of the particle; and indicating the change in quantity. | 06-23-2011 |
20110147230 | Film Removal - A method of removing coating from a substrate may include contacting a portion of coating on a surface of a substrate to an acid. | 06-23-2011 |
20110146786 | PHOTOVOLTAIC MODULE INTERLAYER - A photovoltaic module may include a substrate including a coating; and an interlayer placed in contact with the substrate, where the interlayer includes an acid-modified polyethylene. | 06-23-2011 |
20110146785 | PHOTOVOLTAIC DEVICE INCLUDING DOPED LAYER - A photovoltaic cell with a doped buffer layer includes a metal oxide and a dopant. | 06-23-2011 |
20110146784 | Photovoltaic device back contact - A method for manufacturing a photovoltaic device may include depositing a semiconductor absorber layer on a substrate, depositing a molybdenum in the presence of a nitrogen to form a molybdenum nitride in contact with the semiconductor absorber layer, and doping the molybdenum nitride with a copper dopant. | 06-23-2011 |
20110140528 | CABLE BUS - A photovoltaic array cable bus system can include a cable bus and at least one electrical connector. | 06-16-2011 |
20110139240 | PHOTOVOLTAIC WINDOW LAYER - A discontinuous or reduced thickness window layer can improve the efficiency of CdTe-based or other kinds of solar cells. | 06-16-2011 |
20110136294 | Plasma-Treated Photovoltaic Devices - A method of manufacturing a thin film photovoltaic device includes depositing a first compound semiconductor layer on a substrate and exposing the device to plasma, the plasma treating the layer. | 06-09-2011 |
20110132450 | Back Contact Deposition Using Water-Doped Gas Mixtures - A method of manufacturing a photovoltaic module may include depositing a semiconductor material adjacent to a substrate; and depositing a back contact material adjacent to the semiconductor material, where depositing the back contact material may include directing a feed gas including hydrogen toward the substrate. | 06-09-2011 |
20110132263 | System and Method for Depositing a Material on a Substrate - A method and apparatus for depositing a film on a substrate includes introducing a material and a carrier gas into a heated chamber. The material may be a semiconductor material, such as a cadmium chalcogenide. A resulting mixture of vapor and carrier gas containing no unvaporized material is provided. The mixture of vapor and carrier gas are remixed to achieve a uniform vapor/carrier gas composition, which is directed toward a surface of a substrate, such as a glass substrate, where the vapor is deposited as a uniform film. | 06-09-2011 |
20110132262 | System and Method for Depositing a Material on a Substrate - A method and apparatus for depositing a film on a substrate includes introducing a material and a carrier gas into a heated chamber. The material may be a semiconductor material, such as a cadmium chalcogenide. A resulting mixture of vapor and carrier gas containing no unvaporized material is provided. The mixture of vapor and carrier gas are remixed to achieve a uniform vapor/carrier gas composition, which is directed toward a surface of a substrate, such as a glass substrate, where the vapor is deposited as a uniform film. | 06-09-2011 |
20110132261 | System and Method for Depositing a Material on a Substrate - A method and apparatus for depositing a film on a substrate includes introducing a material and a carrier gas into a heated chamber. The material may be a semiconductor material, such as a cadmium chalcogenide. A resulting mixture of vapor and carrier gas containing no unvaporized material is provided. The mixture of vapor and carrier gas are remixed to achieve a uniform vapor/carrier gas composition, which is directed toward a surface of a substrate, such as a glass substrate, where the vapor is deposited as a uniform film. | 06-09-2011 |
20110108394 | Transport Device, Especially for Transporting Flat Substrates Through a Coating Installation - The transport device especially for transporting flat substrates through a coating installation comprises a plurality of transporting rolls, which are arranged transversely in relation to the transporting direction, and supporting rolls are also provided. | 05-12-2011 |
20110095004 | SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR TRACKING AND REMOVING COATING FROM AN EDGE OF A SUBSTRATE - A method for removing coating from a substrate may include: locating an edge of a substrate; directing a laser beam along a first path to a first position on a surface of the substrate proximate to an edge of the substrate at an angle of incidence suitable to redirect the laser beam along a second path, through the substrate, to a second position on a second surface of the substrate corresponding to the located edge of the substrate, where the second surface can include a coating; and ablating at least a portion of coating at the second position on the second surface of the substrate. | 04-28-2011 |
20110088768 | METHOD OF ANNEALING CADMIUM TELLURIDE PHOTOVOLTAIC DEVICE - A method of manufacturing a photovoltaic device may include forming a cadmium zinc sulfide layer on a substrate; depositing a cadmium telluride layer on the cadmium zinc sulfide layer; contacting a cadmium chloride to the cadmium telluride layer; and annealing one or more layers, where the one or more layers includes at least the cadmium telluride layer. | 04-21-2011 |
20110088742 | PHOTOVOLTAIC MODULE - A photovoltaic module may include a transparent conductive layer on a substrate a first submodule including a first plurality of photovoltaic cells connected in series and a second submodule including a second plurality of photovoltaic cells connected in series. | 04-21-2011 |
20110083972 | ELECTROCHEMICAL METHOD AND APPARATUS FOR REMOVING COATING FROM A SUBSTRATE - A method of removing coating from a substrate may include contacting at least a portion of a surface of a substrate to an electrolytic substance, where at least a portion of the surface includes cadmium; connecting a power source to the substrate and to an anode material; applying a current and a voltage; and removing at least a portion of coating from the substrate. | 04-14-2011 |
20110083734 | MODULE MOISTURE BARRIER - A photovoltaic module may include a substrate; a semiconductor layer adjacent to the substrate; a lead foil adjacent to the semiconductor layer; a cover glass adjacent to the lead foil, where the cover glass includes a top surface, a bottom surface, and an opening, where the opening penetrates the top and bottom surfaces of the cover glass, and the opening includes an opening lateral dimension; and a barrier layer between the cover glass and the semiconductor layer, where the barrier layer includes a barrier lateral dimension, where the barrier lateral dimension is greater than the opening lateral dimension. | 04-14-2011 |
20110079283 | SELF-REMEDIATING PHOTOVOLTAIC MODULE - A method for manufacturing a photovoltaic module may include forming a photovoltaic device including a constituent material; forming a hydrophilic material adjacent to the constituent material, where the hydrophilic material includes an acrylate-based polymer; and depositing a remediation agent adjacent to the hydrophilic material, such that the remediation agent is proximate to, but not contacting the constituent material. | 04-07-2011 |
20110079282 | SELF-REMEDIATING PHOTOVOLTAIC MODULE - A method for manufacturing a photovoltaic module may include forming a photovoltaic device including a constituent material; forming a hydrophilic material adjacent to the constituent material, where the hydrophilic material includes a polyvinyl acetate or alcohol; and depositing a remediation agent adjacent to the hydrophilic material, such that the remediation agent is proximate to, but not contacting the constituent material. | 04-07-2011 |
20110079280 | SELF-REMEDIATING PHOTOVOLTAIC MODULE - A method for manufacturing a photovoltaic module may include forming a photovoltaic device including a constituent material; forming a hydrophilic material adjacent to the constituent material, where the hydrophilic material includes polyethylene; and depositing a remediation agent adjacent to the hydrophilic material, such that the remediation agent is proximate to, but not contacting the constituent material. | 04-07-2011 |
20110079279 | SELF-REMEDIATING PHOTOVOLTAIC MODULE - A method for manufacturing a photovoltaic module may include forming a photovoltaic device including a constituent material; forming a hydrophilic material adjacent to the constituent material, where the hydrophilic material includes cellulose; and depositing a remediation agent adjacent to the hydrophilic material, such that the remediation agent is proximate to, but not contacting the constituent material. | 04-07-2011 |
20110061736 | PHOTOVOLTAIC BACK CONTACT - A method to preparing Cadmium telluride surface before forming metal back contact is disclosed. The method can include removing carbon from Cadmium telluride surface. | 03-17-2011 |
20110061712 | CORD PLATE - A photovoltaic module cord plate is disclosed. The cord plate has a base and channel. | 03-17-2011 |
20110060475 | Cloud Tracking - A cloud tracking system for photovoltaic power plant is disclosed. The cloud tracking system for photovoltaic power plant can include plurality of cloud shadow sensors positioned on the perimeter of the photovoltaic power plant. | 03-10-2011 |
20110053306 | Photovoltaic Lead Manufacture - An improved lead foil operation procedure for photovoltaic module manufacture is disclosed. The procedure includes lift, cut, and fold lead foil. | 03-03-2011 |
20110046916 | Pyrometer - A position sensitive pyrometer includes a sensor. | 02-24-2011 |
20110041917 | Doped Transparent Conductive Oxide - A solar cell with a doped transparent conductive oxide layer is disclosed. The doped transparent conductive oxide layer can improve the efficiency of CdTe-based or other kinds of solar cells. | 02-24-2011 |
20110039401 | Apparatus and Method for Depositing a Material on a Substrate - Apparatus and a method for depositing a material on a substrate utilizes a distributor including a permeable member through which a carrier gas and a material are passed to provide a vapor that is deposited on a conveyed substrate. A secondary gas can be provided to promote uniform distribution of the material on the substrate. | 02-17-2011 |
20110030891 | Lamination process improvement - A method of laminating a photovoltaic module may include placing an interlayer in contact with a substrate, heating the interlayer with a source of infrared radiation and pressing the interlayer and the substrate together in a vacuum laminator. | 02-10-2011 |
20110005594 | Photovoltaic Devices Including Zinc - A method of manufacturing a photovoltaic cell may include depositing a cadmium sulfide layer on a transparent conductive oxide stack; depositing a zinc-containing layer on the cadmium sulfide layer; and depositing a cadmium telluride layer on the zinc-containing layer. | 01-13-2011 |
20110005591 | Solar Cell Front Contact Doping - A method of doping solar cell front contact can improve the efficiency of CdTe-based or other kinds of solar cells. | 01-13-2011 |
20100326491 | DOPANT-CONTAINING CONTACT MATERIAL - A photovoltaic device can include a doped contact layer adjacent to a semiconductor absorber layer, where the doped contact layer includes a metal base material and a dopant. | 12-30-2010 |
20100319775 | Method and Apparatus for Annealing a Deposited Cadmium Stannate Layer - A method for manufacturing a multi-layered structure can include annealing a stack, where the annealing can include heating the stack in the presence of an inert gas, and where the stack includes a layer including cadmium and tin. | 12-23-2010 |
20100307991 | PHOTOVOLTAIC MODULE GROUND MOUNT - A photovoltaic module ground mounting system can include a collapsible photovoltaic module mounting assembly framework. | 12-09-2010 |
20100307568 | METAL BARRIER-DOPED METAL CONTACT LAYER - A photovoltaic device can include an intrinsic metal layer adjacent to a semiconductor absorber layer; and a doped metal contact layer adjacent to the intrinsic metal layer, where the doped metal contact layer includes a metal base material and a dopant. | 12-09-2010 |
20100307561 | DOPED METAL CONTACT - A photovoltaic device can include a second metal layer adjacent to a first layer, where the first layer is positioned adjacent to a substrate, and where the second metal layer includes a dopant; and a copper-indium-gallium diselenide (CIGS) layer adjacent to the second metal layer. | 12-09-2010 |
20100307560 | SELF-REMEDIATING PHOTOVOLTAIC MODULE - A method for manufacturing a photovoltaic module can include depositing a heavy metal-immobilizing agent proximate to one or more components of a photovoltaic module. | 12-09-2010 |
20100304010 | Powder feed rate sensor - A powder feed rate sensor includes a surface or diaphragm configured to detect powder feed rate. | 12-02-2010 |
20100288355 | SILICON NITRIDE DIFFUSION BARRIER LAYER FOR CADMIUM STANNATE TCO - A photovoltaic device can include a transparent conductive oxide layer adjacent to a substrate and a barrier layer, which can include a silicon-containing material. | 11-18-2010 |
20100288354 | CADMIUM STANNATE TCO STRUCTURE WITH DIFFUSION BARRIER LAYER AND SEPARATION LAYER - A photovoltaic device can include a transparent conductive oxide layer adjacent to a substrate and one or more barrier layers, which can include a silicon oxide or a silicon nitride. | 11-18-2010 |
20100282320 | Photovoltaic Devices Including an Interfacial Layer - A photovoltaic cell can include an interfacial layer in contact with a semiconductor layer. | 11-11-2010 |
20100231045 | Photovoltaic Power Plant Output - A photovoltaic power system can include a photovoltaic array, an inverter, and a battery. | 09-16-2010 |
20100218803 | Non-planar photocell - A photovoltaic cell having a substrate with at least one curved surface reduces the number of processing steps necessary to manufacture a completed cell. Such a photovoltaic cell can have semiconductor material on the outer surface of a curved substrate or on the inner surface of a curved substrate. | 09-02-2010 |
20100212731 | Photovoltaic Devices Including Controlled Copper Uptake - A photovoltaic cell can include a substrate having a copper-doped semiconductor layer. The doping can be mediated with a salt. | 08-26-2010 |
20100212730 | PHOTOVOLTAIC DEVICES INCLUDING BACK METAL CONTACTS - A photovoltaic cell can include a substrate having a transparent conductive oxide layer, a CdS/CdTe layer, and a back metal contact. The back metal contact can be deposited by sputtering or by chemical vapor deposition. | 08-26-2010 |
20100210059 | SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR TOP-DOWN MATERIAL DEPOSITION - A method and apparatus for depositing a film on a substrate includes introducing a vaporizable material from a source positioned above a substrate. The vaporizable material is vaporized and directed as an vapor feed stream from the source, away from the substrate. The vapor feed stream is redirected as a plume from a redirector, towards the substrate and deposited as a film on the substrate. | 08-19-2010 |
20100193012 | Non-Corrosive Photovoltaic Panel Mounting Bracket - A system and method of mounting photovoltaic panels includes a mounting bracket. | 08-05-2010 |
20100186815 | Photovoltaic Device With Improved Crystal Orientation - A photovoltaic device can include a semiconductor absorber layer with improved cadmium telluride orientation. | 07-29-2010 |
20100186812 | PHOTOVOLTAIC DEVICES INCLUDING COPPER INDIUM GALLIUM SELENIDE - A copper indium gallium selenide photovoltaic cell can include a substrate having a transparent conductive oxide layer. The copper indium gallium selenide can be deposited using sputtering and vapor transport deposition. | 07-29-2010 |
20100116337 | Tandem Module Photovoltaic Devices Including An Organic Module - A tandem module photovoltaic cell can include an organic module in parallel with a semiconductor module. | 05-13-2010 |
20100059115 | Coated Substrates and Semiconductor Devices Including the Substrates - A photovoltaic cell can include a substrate having a transparent conductive oxide layer and an antireflective layer. The layers can be deposited by sputtering or by chemical vapor deposition. | 03-11-2010 |
20100059112 | Photovoltaic Devices Including Mg-Doped Semiconductor Films - A photovoltaic cell can include a dopant in contact with a semiconductor layer. | 03-11-2010 |
20090272437 | Transparent Conductive Materials Including Cadmium Stannate - A photovoltaic cell can include a transparent conductive layer including cadmium stannate. | 11-05-2009 |
20090260671 | SYSTEMS AND METHODS OF PARALLEL INTERCONNECTION OF PHOTOVOLTAIC MODULES - A photovoltaic system includes a first submodule and a second submodule connected in parallel. | 10-22-2009 |
20090255578 | Plasma-treated photovoltaic devices - A method of manufacturing a thin film photovoltaic device includes depositing a first compound semiconductor layer on a substrate and exposing the device to plasma, the plasma treating the layer. | 10-15-2009 |
20090246940 | System and method for depositing a material on a substrate - A method and apparatus for depositing a film on a substrate includes a plasma source positioned proximate to a distributor configured to provide a semiconductor coating on a substrate. | 10-01-2009 |
20090211637 | Photovoltaic devices including heterojunctions - A photovoltaic cell can include a heterojunction between semiconductor layers. | 08-27-2009 |
20090194166 | PHOTOVOLTAIC DEVICES INCLUDING DOPED SEMICONDUCTOR FILMS - A photovoltaic cell can include a dopant in contact with a semiconductor layer. | 08-06-2009 |
20090078318 | Photovoltaic Devices Including An Interfacial Layer - A photovoltaic cell can include an interfacial layer in contact with a semiconductor layer. | 03-26-2009 |