Advancements in Shingle Matrix Technology for High Volume Production

Shingle matrix technology is an innovative approach to organize shingle cells in a brick-wall-like configuration, offering numerous advantages for photovoltaic modules. Although it originated almost three decades ago, this methodology has been pioneered and refined over the past three years through collaborative efforts between Fraunhofer ISE and M10 Solar Equipment GmbH to make it a commercial product. The stringing of shingle matrix has been successfully achieved the development and implementation of the shingle matrix stringer. This paper provides a comprehensive explanation of matrix shingle technology, describing the steps for constructing matrix shingle solar modules. Additionally, it explores challenges faced during development, offering effective solutions for achieving high efficiency and an aesthetically pleasing end-product. The study demonstrates that full-scale shingle matrix modules withstand climate chamber tests according to IEC 61215, experiencing power losses of less than –3.4%, even when undergoing a sequence of stresses. Furthermore, it unveils practical industrial solutions for cell metallization and overlap reduction. The solutions minimize power losses due to host cell separation and interconnection materials and are both cost-effective and environmentally friendly.