====== solar cells ======

^ Parts infobox ^^
| Image | {{:archive:solar-cells.scad.png?240}} |
| designers |  |
| date |  |
| vitamins |  |
| materials |  |
| transformations |  |
| lifecycles |  |
| parts | [[:silicon_wafers|Silicon wafers]] |
| techniques | [[:soldering|Soldering]], [[:potting|Potting]] |
| tools | [[:soldering_irons|Soldering irons]] |
| files |  |
| suppliers |  |
| git |  |

[[:category:parts|Category:Parts]]

[[:category:electric_parts|Category:Electric parts]]

==== Introduction ====

Many [[:category:projects|projects]] require power in some form.  Photovoltaic panels provide a rugged, durable, mass produced, and inexpensive platform for the system's energy production needs.  PV panels are made from arrays of cells connected in serial and parallel.

==== Challenges ====

Similar to battery packs, balancing solar cells helps to ensure maximum power production and longevity.  Sealing cells against the weather and oxidization are challenges.  As is encasing the cells in a durable medium which is transparent to the light wavelengths converted to electricity by the cells.

==== Approaches ====

{{:archive:from_a_solar_cell_to_a_pv_system.svg?600}}

Individual solar cells typically measure 125mm square and produce approximately 0.5v @ 3W each @ 20% efficiency.

==== Development targets ====

Use [[:hoses|hoses]], {{:archive:titebond_ii_msds.pdf?600}}, and [[:couplers|couplers]] to create a liquid cooling loop on rear side of panel.

==== References ====

  * [[https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Solar_cell|Wikipedia: Solar cell]]
  * [[https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Photovoltaic_system|Wikipedia: Photovoltaic system]]

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[[https://github.com/timschmidt/replimat/blob/e0bc0b855bb946bab00c75ca0d8b002ae0dc0172/wiki/solar_cells.html|Original archived page]] — revision 8084, 2021-09-23T09:07:37+00:00, by Tim.