Abstract: Disclosed are a method and an apparatus for string connecting photovoltaic modules. The method includes: acquiring position information of n photovoltaic modules to be connected; categorizing the n photovoltaic modules into m partitions based on the position information of the n photovoltaic modules; generating k candidate connection solutions of an ith partition in the m partitions, wherein the ith partition includes m photovoltaic modules, and each of the k candidate connection solutions uses one photovoltaic module in the m photovoltaic modules as a starting point, and obtaining at least one string of photovoltaic modules by simulating connection of the m photovoltaic modules according to a preset connection solution; and selecting a target connection solution from the k candidate connection solutions based on an estimated cable use amount corresponding to each of the k candidate connection solutions.

Abstract: Disclosed are a method and an apparatus for string connecting photovoltaic modules. The method includes: acquiring position information of n photovoltaic modules to be connected; categorizing the n photovoltaic modules into m partitions based on the position information of the n photovoltaic modules; generating k candidate connection solutions of an ith partition in the m partitions, wherein the ith partition includes m photovoltaic modules, and each of the k candidate connection solutions uses one photovoltaic module in the m photovoltaic modules as a starting point, and obtaining at least one string of photovoltaic modules by simulating connection of the m photovoltaic modules according to a preset connection solution; and selecting a target connection solution from the k candidate connection solutions based on an estimated cable use amount corresponding to each of the k candidate connection solutions.

Abstract: A method of manufacturing a film-covered article by the following steps. A thermoplastic film is heated to become pliable. The film has a decorative surface and a backing surface. The heated film is positioned between an open mold. The open mold has a first mold surface, a sealing surface and a sealing member. The sealing surface contacts the sealing member and forms a chamber between the mold and the film. A fluid pressure is applied between the mold and the film to cause the film to conform to the first mold surface. A molten resin is injected adjacent to the film-backing surface to form the film-covered article. The invention may be practiced by either applying a positive pressure to push the film to conform to the first mold surface or a negative pressure to drawing the film against a vacuum between the film and the first mold surface.

Abstract: A gas assisted injection molded part includes internal cavities extending between two surfaces of the part. The cavities are plated for electrical conductivity after a surface cleaning and etching process. The part may be an automobile instrument panel wherein the internal cavities are plated to create a series of "bus" conductor lines. These lines carry power, ground and/or electrical signals over relatively large distances, allowing other components to attach at points along the structure eliminating the need for discrete wiring and wire harness interconnect assemblies.