초록 ▼

A solar panel in which the bus-and-interconnect structures are visually masked, to improve not only aesthetics but also the operational characteristics of the panel. A transparent superstrate for the panel has on a surface juxtaposed to the radiation-receiving surfaces of the cells a pattern masking

A solar panel in which the bus-and-interconnect structures are visually masked, to improve not only aesthetics but also the operational characteristics of the panel. A transparent superstrate for the panel has on a surface juxtaposed to the radiation-receiving surfaces of the cells a pattern masking material just sufficient, with manufacturing tolerances, to mask the generally non-symmetrical interconnect structure in a substantially more uniform, symmetrical manner. The masking material may be matte-finish (paint) or highly reflective (a metallic deposit), and in either case may be applied by the same process (e.g., silk screen). The reflective mask structure inhibits heat build-up in the panel; and the matte-finish mask structure is generally unobtrusive and aesthetically pleasing, as required for example, in vehicular applications. A redundant bus structure yields surprisingly compact interconnects, with increased versatility in arrangement of grid patterns of collector electrodes, and is highly compatible with the masking structures and techniques.

대표청구항 ▼

A solar panel comprising: a plurality of solar cells having radiation absorbing surfaces and opposed back surfaces; conducting means for interconnecting the solar cells; a transparent superstrate upon one surface of which the radiation absorbing surfaces are mounted; and means upon a surface of said

A solar panel comprising: a plurality of solar cells having radiation absorbing surfaces and opposed back surfaces; conducting means for interconnecting the solar cells; a transparent superstrate upon one surface of which the radiation absorbing surfaces are mounted; and means upon a surface of said transparent superstrate for masking said interconnecting means and for masking the peripheral edge portions of said radiation absorbing surfaces of said solar cells so as to present a uniform visual appearance to the panel.