Post-Lamination Manufacturing Process Automation for Photovoltaic Modules: Annual Technical Progress Report

Spire is addressing the PVMaT project goals of photovoltaic (PV) module cost reduction and improved module manufacturing process technology. New cost-effective automation processes are being developed for post-lamination PV module assembly, where post-lamination is defined as the processes after the solar cells are encapsulated. These processes apply to both crystalline and thin-film solar cell modules. Four main process areas are being addressed: 1) Module buffer storage and handling between steps; 2) Module edge trimming, edge sealing, and framing; 3) Junction-box installation; and 4) Testing for module performance, electrical isolation, and ground-path continuity.