초록 ▼

A method for effectuating scribe and break of coated glass microsheets for use with satellite solar cell covers. The method improves the consistency and edge quality of scribed solar cell covers, and also adds scribe and break capabilities not available with the conventional processes, resulting in

A method for effectuating scribe and break of coated glass microsheets for use with satellite solar cell covers. The method improves the consistency and edge quality of scribed solar cell covers, and also adds scribe and break capabilities not available with the conventional processes, resulting in various, even complex shapes and improved yields. The laser scribe method ensures that most of the laser energy is absorbed in a thin layer that is removed during the pulse, which further ensures that virtually no heat is left behind. This method also promotes a superior and consistent edge quality in satellite solar cell covers. The smoother edges eliminate points of weakness from where cracks may originate, as frequently experienced with the conventional diamond scribe techniques. A laser source such as a KrF excimer laser is utilized for scribing the microsheets. The absorption of the laser correlates with the particular properties of the coating contained on the surface of the microsheets and the particular properties of the microsheet itself. The microsheets are broken to their final size by applying a tensile force perpendicular to the scribe line.

대표청구항 ▼

[ What is claimed and desired to be secured by United States Letters Patent is:] [1.] A method of scribing and breaking microsheets comprising the steps of:a. obtaining a microsheet of glass of a predetermined physical thickness;b. obtaining a laser source capable of producing a wavelength which is

[ What is claimed and desired to be secured by United States Letters Patent is:] [1.] A method of scribing and breaking microsheets comprising the steps of:a. obtaining a microsheet of glass of a predetermined physical thickness;b. obtaining a laser source capable of producing a wavelength which is strongly absorbed by the glass, said laser source being capable of generating at least one pulse sufficiently short in time so as to avoid damaging said microsheet by generation of excessive heat;c. scribing said microsheet with said laser source to a predetermined depth in said microsheet to form one or more scribe lines; andd. breaking said microsheet along the one or more scribe lines. [19.] A glass cover microsheet formed by scribing a microsheet of glass having a predetermined physical thickness to a predetermined depth using a laser to form one or more scribe lines, and breaking the microsheet of glass along the one or more scribe lines such that the resulting edges of the scribed and broken microsheet of glass are smooth and substantially lack points of weakness from where cracks may originate.