Patent ID: 6020555
Filing Date: 2000-02-01
Classification: H01L,Y02E,Y10S

Abstract:
Apparatus for generating solar energy, including,a plurality of solar cells 50a-50f connected in a series relationship, anda plurality of diodes 50a-50f each diode having an anode and a cathode and each connected to an individual one of the solar cells for reverse biasing such diode against conductivity during the operation of the individual one of the solar cells in generating solar energy and each operative to provide a current by-passing such individual one of the solar cells when such individual one of the solar cells becomes damaged or shadowed,each of the solar cells having a positive termination 61 and a negative termination 64,there being an air gap 62 between the positive termination and the negative termination of each of the solar cells,the negative termination of each solar cell being defined in part by negative terminals 66 and 68 disposed in the air gap 62 for that solar cell and being separated by air gaps 72 and 74 for that solar cell from the positive termination 61 defined in part by a positive terminal 70.