Abstract: A photovoltaic device can include a module and a rail. The module can have an edge formed around a perimeter of the module. The rail can include a coupling surface at a top side of the rail, and a recessed surface offset from the coupling surface and towards a bottom side of the rail.

Abstract: A photovoltaic device can include a module and a rail. The module can have an edge formed around a perimeter of the module. The rail can include a coupling surface at a top side of the rail, and a recessed surface offset from the coupling surface and towards a bottom side of the rail.

Abstract: An apparatus and a method for testing and/or conditioning photovoltaic modules. The apparatus includes a set of contacts for contacting electrical conductors of the module and a testing and/or conditioning system for testing and/or conditioning of the module and measuring parameters associated therewith.

Abstract: A support structure for orienting and supporting at least one solar panel includes a lock rail and a support rail that are engaged together through a locking mount. The locking mount has a retaining pin that permits the locking rail to be connected to the support rail without tools. The locking mount may provide a permanent or a releasable connection that retains the solar panel to the support structure.

Abstract: Characteristics of partially assembled photovoltaic modules can be determined using electrical connection apparatuses and methods. By providing deformable electrical contacts against a partially assembled module on an assembly line, an electrical bias can be applied to the module before the module is completely assembled. An electrical connection apparatus for a photovoltaic module may include a first contact configured to engage a first lead on the photovoltaic module, a second contact configured to engage a second lead on the photovoltaic module, and an electrical power source configured to apply an electrical bias between the first contact and the second contact.

Abstract: A double sided tape applicator can include a quick release head to facilitate, for example, cleaning and tape threading.

Abstract: A apparatus and method for manufacturing a photovoltaic module includes components for heating the module and applying an electrical bias to the module to improve photovoltaic module performance and manufacture multiple photovoltaic modules with similar performance.

Abstract: A tape dispenser includes a torque controller and a take-up cassette.

Abstract: A double sided tape applicator can include a quick release head to facilitate, for example, cleaning and tape threading.

Abstract: A apparatus and method for manufacturing a photovoltaic module includes components for heating the module and applying an electrical bias to the module to improve photovoltaic module performance and manufacture multiple photovoltaic modules with similar performance.

Abstract: A method for processing a coated glass substrate may include a high-temperature activation process.

Abstract: A tape-dispensing apparatus may include a removable part and a base part.

Abstract: An integrated controller is provided for controlling communications with a plurality of peripheral devices. The integrated controller includes a bus interface for processing communications with a processor; a switch for routing communications between the processor and one or more of the peripheral devices; and a plurality of controllers, where each of the controllers provide an interface to at least one peripheral device. The controllers include at least one PHY controller for a corresponding peripheral device that provides an electrical interface to a connection, such as a network connection. The controllers also include at least one MAC controller that stores and forwards packets to and from a network connection.