Abstract: A metal electrode is formed on a substrate. The metal electrode includes a first layer, a second layer, and a third layer lying, from an outermost surface of the metal electrode toward the substrate, in this order. The first layer contains tin as a principal constituent and the second layer contains a metallic element which produces an eutectic reaction with tin, wherein the melting point of the first layer is higher than the melting point of the second layer. The third layer is an underlying metallic layer for the first and second layers.

Abstract: A metal electrode of the invention is formed on a substrate. The metal electrode includes a first layer, a second layer and a third layer lying from an outermost surface of the metal electrode toward the substrate in this order. The first layer contains tin as a principal constituent and the second layer contains a metallic element which produces an eutectic reaction with tin, wherein the melting point of the first layer is higher than that of the second layer. The third layer is formed as an underlying metallic layer for the first and second layers.

Abstract: In a solar array paddle having panels which are connected to a main body of a satellite and rotatably connected to one another, elastic insertion members for prevention of vibration are disposed in a clearance between each of the panels and between the main body and the panel adjacent to the main body when the panels are housed, folded, and layered. Each of the insertion members for prevention of vibration is inserted into the clearances and between the main body of the satellite and the panels adjacent to the main body such that one surface contacts a first panel and the other surface is adhered to a second panel.

Abstract: In a solar array paddle having a plurality of panels which are connected to a main body of a satellite and rotatably connected to one another, a plurality of elastic insertion member for prevention of vibration is disposed in a clearance between each of the panels and in that between the main body and the panel adjacent to the main body when the panels are housed with them folded and layered. Each of the insertion member for prevention of vibration is inserted into the above-described clearances and those between the main body of the satellite and the panels adjacent to the main body such that one surface thereof is contacted with a relevant surface and the other surface thereof is adhered to another relevant surface.

Abstract: A joining method using lead-free solder which can produce a good joint through a heating process. A first lead-free alloy layer is formed on surfaces of all parts to be mounted on a board at a temperature equal to or lower than the melting point of the first alloy layer. A second lead-free alloy layer having a melting point lower than the first alloy layer is formed on surface of the board. The first and second alloy layers are placed in contact with each other and heated to a predetermined temperature.