Aligns & Transports Completed Solar Cell Strings

Spi-Module Lay-Up Station shown as option with Spi-Assembler

The Spi-Module Lay-Up Station automatically aligns and places completed solar cell strings in position for module assembly. The Spi-Module Lay-Up Station can be implemented as an option to the Spi-Assembler 6000, or it can be used as standalone equipment.

The Spi-Module Lay-Up Station includes a string unloader robot for string transport, a string aligner, and a ball table for module lay-up. When the Spi-Assembler completes a cell string, a conveyor belt positions the string for pick-up by the string unloader. The unloader transports the string to either the stack table, for visual inspection or placement in a stack, or the string aligner for alignment prior to lay-up. A tilt table aligns the string’s long axis by tilting down approximately 20° to allow the string to rest against adjustable alignment guides. After alignment, the unloader picks up the string and transports it over a ball table to the appropriate string position for placement on the module. When required, the unloader automatically rotates 180° to reverse the string polarity. A ball table with retractable pads is provided for module lay-up. The number of strings per module, the string spacing, and the orientation of each string are software programmable.

Features & Benefits

• Provides accurate, automated string alignment to glass and other module materials
• Eliminates manual handling of cell strings, minimizing cell breakage, contamination and stress on solder joints
• Rugged design for large scale string and module lay-up
• Adjustable for a variety of cell sizes and string positions
• The number of strings per module, the string spacing, and the orientation of each string are software programmable
• Mechanically floating vacuum cup mounts minimize mechanical stress on the cells during pickup
• Ball table with pads is included for module lay-up
• Can be used with a Spi-Assembler or as standalone equipment