Abstract: Automated testing of solar panel modules employs a gantry system to continuously transfer modules in and out of a workstation where the modules undergo solar simulation current voltage testing and high voltage safety measurements. The gantry system includes a carriage and a clamp device that is adopted to receive and secure the perimeter of each module, which has a positive and negative junction box, located on its back side and contact pins are inserted into the junction boxes during testing. The clamp has an electrically conductive inner perimeter that engages the corresponding outer perimeter of module. High voltage testing determines the level of current leakage between the interior and exterior of the module. A takt time of fifteen seconds or better is achieved.

Abstract: A glide head having a portion thereof that is selectively extendable toward the rotating disk by the application of an electrical signal thereto. The extendable portion may be located on a side wing extending from a slider main body. The side wing may include a piezoelectric transducer with a relatively durable contact layer provided on the bottom portion thereof. The slider can be flown relatively close to the rotating media and the transducer can be activated to actuate the contact layer into a closer position relative to the rotating disk. The distance at which physical contact occurs may be measured.