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A process of making a photovoltaic unit includes steps of simultaneously forming a first layer of n-type material and a second layer of p-type material using a continuous casting process, and continuously bonding the first and second layers to form a p-n junction. The process may be performed using

A process of making a photovoltaic unit includes steps of simultaneously forming a first layer of n-type material and a second layer of p-type material using a continuous casting process, and continuously bonding the first and second layers to form a p-n junction. The process may be performed using a twin-roll type continuous casting system having a continuous casting mold that includes a first mold compartment for receiving molten n-type material and a second mold compartment for receiving molten p-type material. The molten n-type material and the molten p-type material are gradually solidified into semi-solid shells and are pressed together by opposed casting rolls, creating a metallurgical bond between the n-type material and the p-type material that forms an effective p-n junction. The process permits the large scale efficient manufacturing of photovoltaic units.

대표청구항

What is claimed is: 1. A method of making a photovoltaic unit, comprising:simultaneously forming a first layer of n-type material and a second layer of p-type material using a continuous casting process; andcontinuously bonding said first and second layers to form a p-n junction.

What is claimed is: 1. A method of making a photovoltaic unit, comprising:simultaneously forming a first layer of n-type material and a second layer of p-type material using a continuous casting process; andcontinuously bonding said first and second layers to form a p-n junction.