Challenging Convention With The SBS Process

PHOTOVOLTAIC SCALE UP, PROCESS INNOVATION

Challenging Convention With The SBS Process

This is part 2 in our scale up series explaining the tools and processes offered by msolv® for the photovoltaics (PV) industry. We began in Part 1 with optimizing the laser scribing process to avoid critical interconnect failure in your solar modules. Now we move into innovative territory as we discuss the unique Stitch Band Scribing™ (SBS) process.

Stitch Band Scribing™: Precision Scribing That Scales With You

Laser scribing of PV modules poses many challenges, it takes experience to develop a process and determine how to:

Select the optimal laser for the application
Setup but remain flexible with software-controlled scribe dimensions
Realize single-digit micron scribe precision and accuracy
Reduce process times to maximise cost-effectiveness
Remain versatile with material handling options

Traditional laser scribing systems have fixed parameters that limit their flexibility in handling different scribing requirements. We understand that laboratories and some manufacturers need to offer varying cell sizes, scribe widths, directions and pitches for different applications. Quick changes and efficient processing from one product design to another are impossible to achieve with conventional multiple-fixed-beam laser scribing systems.

PV substrates are often not very flat – potentially warped by processing, thus requiring autofocus of the laser beam – challenging for conventional processing tools with multiple, fixed process heads, moving at very high speed.

These limitations can be dealbreakers for startups or high mix users needing to evolve module designs and qualify new processes rapidly.

Stitch Band Scribing™ (SBS) is a precise and efficient method for creating photovoltaic (PV) interconnects, ensuring accurate P1, P2, P3 and P4 scribing of panels, which is crucial for performance and longevity. In contrast to traditional systems, SBS tools need just one process head. They use a galvo-scanner for optical delivery to achieve beam speeds of > 20 m/s. While the process head moves much more slowly, simplifying the autofocus challenge. But the real benefit is software control that offers high flexibility and versatility, allowing for adjustable scribe widths, and variable interconnect pitches.

SBS is available in various tool formats to cover a wide range of panel sizes while minimizing equipment footprint. msolv® provide machines for R&D or production with robot or conveyor load/unload.

SBS supports fiducial writing and large area deletion; fiducial writing is typically added to P1 processing, while P4 isolation scribing is conducted with P3. The integrated camera vision system includes fiducial and previous scribe detection for precise alignment. Dynamic scribe location tracking ensures precise scribe position and stitching control on-the-fly.

Stitch Band Scribing™ (SBS) is a versatile and precise method for creating PV interconnects, ensuring high-quality and reliable scribing across both the long and short edges of panels. This technique enhances the efficiency and durability of photovoltaic cells, contributing to the advancement of solar energy technology.

Next up in Part 3, get an inside look at the MSV700, one of our SBS capable tools. See how it’s transforming solar manufacturing from lab to line.