Steven E Miles

US Patent:

41676440, Sep 11, 1979

Filed:

Sep 29, 1978

Appl. No.:

5/947018

Inventors:

William T. Kurth - South Hamilton MA
Steven G. Miles - North Billerica MA

Assignee:

Exxon Research & Engineering Co. - Florham Park NJ

International Classification:

H01L 3104

US Classification:

136 89EP

Abstract:

A solar cell module consisting of a solar cell panel and a frame therefor is disclosed. The solar cell panel is formed from a hard, light transparent sheet material which preferably is glass and has arrayed on the bottom surface of the glass a plurality of individual solar cells interconnected in the requisite series and/or parallel circuit arrangement. The cells are bonded permanently to the underside of the panel by suitable bonding means such as a silicon adhesive. The rear surface of the solar cells and glass is covered with a suitable material, preferably with a light transparent elastomer, to protect the cells from the elements, thereby preventing corrosion of the electrical contacts. The frame extends around the perimeter of the solar panel and has at least one top flange that is essentially coplanar with the solar panel for supporting engagement with a setting strip of resilient material. The setting strip has parts embracing the flange and the marginal edge of the solar cell panel.