The planar multijunction cell - A new solar cell for earth and spaceA new family of high-voltage solar cells, called the planar multijunction (PMJ) cell is being developed. The new cells combine the attractive features of planar cells with conventional or interdigitated back contacts and the vertical multijunction (VMJ) solar cell. The PMJ solar cell is internally divided into many voltage-generating regions, called unit cells, which are internally connected in series. The key to obtaining reasonable performance from this device was the separation of top surface field regions over each active unit cell area. Using existing solar cell fabricating methods, output voltages in excess of 20 volts per linear centimeter are possible. Analysis of the new device is complex, and numerous geometries are being studied which should provide substantial benefits in both normal sunlight usage as well as with concentrators.
Document ID
19800064035
Acquisition Source
Legacy CDMS
Document Type
Conference Proceedings
Authors
Evans, J. C., Jr. (NASA Lewis Research Center Cleveland, OH, United States)
Chai, A.-T. (NASA Lewis Research Center Cleveland, Ohio, United States)
Goradia, C. (NASA Lewis Research Center Cleveland, OH, United States)