Solar Panel Test and Final Assembly Cell

Indexing conveyors move panels through the system. Prior to each process, a 2D barcode is read to retrieve setup parameters particular for the model at hand from the factory server. Panels are loaded and unloaded from the performance/hi-pot/continuity tester using a six-axis robot. Upon successful completion, a good panel is placed on the output conveyor where two different labels are applied. A second vision-guided robot retrieves a diode cover, lid, and leash. While on the conveyor, the robot locates panel mounted junction boxes and determines where to place the retrieved components. The robot places four screws into the cover. Each is driven to a specific torque. A completed panel is passed to the manual inspection stations, which feature trunnions to rotate the panel for the operator’s final inspection.