Abstract: A cover (14) for an array (12) of foil matrix-mounted (18), spaced photovoltaic members (16) protects the array (12) from the environment and increases its efficiency. Upper portions (31) of the members (16) extend above the free reflective surface (20T) of the foil matrix (18). The cover (14)includes an environment-excluding coating (60) which is emplaced on the array (12) to conform to the upper portions (31). The coating is configured as cusps (68) which overlie the free surface (20T) of the matrix (18) centrally between adjacent members (16). The nadirs (72) of the cusps (68) are closely spaced from the free surface (20T). Accordingly, each member (16) effectively supports a conformal lens (70) which directs thereat much of the otherwise "wasted" light that would fall on the free foil surface (20T) between adjacent members (16) and would not fall on the members (16).

Abstract: Solar cells are formed of semi-conductor spheres of P-type interior having an N-type skin are pressed between a pair of aluminum foil members forming the electrical contacts to the P-type and N-type regions. The aluminum foils, which comprise 1.0% silicon by weight, are flexible and electrically insulated from one another. The spheres are patterned in a foil matrix forming a cell. Multiple cells can be interconnected to form a module of solar cell elements for converting sun light into electricity.

Abstract: A method of making single crystal semiconductor grade silicon spheres for solar cells and the like from metallurgical grade silicon. The process comprises sizing metallurgical grade silicon particles to a desired range and oxidizing the outer surfaces of the particles to form a silicon dioxide skin thereon. The particles are then heated to melt the silicon within the skin to cause impurities to travel into the skin. This is made possible because single crystals are formed. The skin and impurities therein are then etched off and the remaining particles are again treated to form a skin with subsequent melt of the interior silicon and removal of the skin, the cycle being repeated until the desired degree of silicon purity is obtained. An intermediate shotting step can yield spheres of substantially uniform diameter for use as the feed for the repeat cycle.

Abstract: The disclosure relates to a solar array with interconnects wherein an array is formed by providing a pair of spaced flexible aluminum foil sheets which are electrically insulated from each other and wherein semiconductor spheres extend through one of the sheets and are electrically coupled to both sheets. A plurality of such arrays are formed in a strip and the individual arrays are separated by placing shims at the scribe locations and scribing thereover so that one of the sheets has an edge extending outwardly for connection to a sheet of another array. In this manner, large solar panels can be formed from a plurality of interconnected arrays in a reel-to-reel embodiment.

Abstract: Solar spheres are formed of semi-conductor spheres of P-type interior having an N-type skin are pressed between a pair of aluminum foil members forming the electrical contacts to the P-type and N-type regions. The aluminum foils, which comprise 1.0% silicon by weight, are flexible and electrically insulated from one another. The spheres are patterned in a foil matrix forming a cell. Multiple cells can be interconnected to form a module of solar cell elements for converting sun light into electricity.

Abstract: A multi-layered screen with layers closely spaced positioned for use in carburetor equipped internal combustion motors in the manifold openings beneath the carburetor in the path of intake air flow with, under a one-barrel carburetor one multi-layered screen being used, with a two-barrel carburetor one or two multi-layered screen units are used depending on whether one barrel is a kick in barrel for acceleration, and in a four-barrel carburetor two are used for the normal run barrels with none in the two kick in barrels that come into use for heavy acceleration.

Abstract: The disclosures relates to a method of forming an array of small apertures in an aluminum foil for receiving semiconductor spheres in said aperature. The apertures are formed by embossing the foil at the locations of the apertures to provide worked metal regions of reduced thickness at said locations. The foil is then etched in toto, etching taking place more rapidly at the worked metal region. Also, due to the reduced thickness of the foil at the embossed regions, such regions are etched away to provide apertures before the remainder of the foil undergoes material metal loss to provide the desired aperture array.

Abstract: The disclosure relates to a method of forming adherent contacts to oxide coated semiconductor material wherein the oxide coating and a portion of the semiconductor material are mechanically removed, such as by abrading, to provide a roughened surface on the semiconductor material. The contact material is then applied over the mechanically roughened surface and bonded at elevated temperatures to provide the adherent contact.

Abstract: The disclosure relates to a method of bonding semiconductor material to aluminum foil to provide electrical connection therebetween wherein the foil and/or the semiconductor material may have an oxide coating thereon. The method comprises heating the foil to a temperature in the range of from about 500.degree. C. to about 577.degree. C. and then moving the semiconductor into said foil under impact to expose elemental aluminum and semiconductor material at the point of impact and form a bond therebetween at the point of impact.

Abstract: The disclosure relates to a method of making solar cell arrays and modules and the arrays and modules wherein the arrays are formed of semiconductor spheres of P-type interior having an N-type skin housed in a pair of aluminum foil members which form the contacts to the P-type and N-type regions. The foils are electrically insulated from each other and are flexible. Multiple arrays can be interconnected to form a module of solar cell elements for converting light energy into electrical energy.

Abstract: The disclosure relates to a method of making solar cell arrays and modules and the arrays and modules wherein the arrays are formed of semiconductor spheres of P-type interior having an N-type skin housed in a pair of aluminum foil members which form the contacts to the P-type and N-type regions. The foils are electrically insulated from each other and are flexible. Multiple arrays can be interconnected to form a module of solar cell elements for converting light energy into electrical energy.

Abstract: The disclosure relates to a method of sealing the surface of an aluminum member, such as an aluminum foil, from the environment by first placing the foil in an H.sub.2 SO.sub.4 bath to form an oxide which normally will not provide a total seal of the aluminum from the environment and then placing the aluminum member with oxide thereon in an H.sub.3 PO.sub.4 bath to close the pores in the oxide layer and provide sealing of the aluminum from the environment. This process also passivates the silicon.

Abstract: The disclosure relates to a method of etching semiconductor material wherein the material is secured in an oxide coated aluminum foil which acts as an etchant mask. The portion of the material extending from one side of the foil can then be etched with a semiconductor material etchant with the remainder of the material being masked from the etchant by the foil.