Importance

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Abstract

Multiple thin-film photoelectric conversion elements formed on a flexible insulating substrate are organized as a single photoelectric conversion module via a manufacturing process that substantially eliminates the probability of damaging the light-receiving surface of the photoelectric conversion elements during the manufacturing process. Each photoelectric conversion element includes a rear electrode layer, a photoelectric conversion layer, and a transparent electrode layer laminated on one side of a substrate, and an auxiliary connecting electrode layer formed on the other side of the substrate. The manufacturing process for the conversion module involves utilizing an apparatus which includes two perpendicularly overlapping belt systems and a cutting/heating unit. The first belt system applies a thermally adhesive resin film to the light-receiving surface of the conversion elements mounted on a substrate. The cutting/heating unit identifies and cuts out non-defective conversion elements. The cutting/heating unit also affixes one surface of the cut out conversion element to a transparent protective film dispensed by the second belt system. The second belt system also applies a conductive material to the other surface of the cut out conversion element, thereby connecting the auxiliary connecting electrode layers of the discrete conversion elements. Finally, the second belt system applies a transparent protective film on top of the conductive material and the auxiliary connecting electrode layer.

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First Claim