Solar Cell Array Design Handbook: The Principles and Technology of Photovoltaic Energy Conversion

20 years ago,photovoltaicswas in its infancy. Today, solar cell arrays supply power to space satellites, homes, and factories; designs for increasingly powerful arrays are on drawing boards the world over; and declining costs have made the solar cell more affordable and competitive than ever. This comprehensive handbook is a response to the phenomenal growth of photovoltaics. Taking the user's point of view, it brings together all current information on solar cell array design for both terrestrial and space applications. It gives a broad picture of solar cell array systems, and spells out in detail the latest technological data needed for the specification, design, fabrication and testing of solar cell arrays. In addition to information on the overall design process, the reader will find authoritative treatment of: theoretical, physical, scientific and engineering principles underlying solar array technology; uses of solar cell arrays; optical elements, including filters, coatings and sunlight concentrator elements; electrical features with full attention to solar cell interconnectors; mechanical characteristics at both assembly and component levels; techniques for fabrication process control; electrical, optical, and environmental test procedures; and design problems and how to deal with them. Also discussed in depth are the effects of the environment, the handling and transportation of solar arrays as well as the general, mechanical, thermal and electromagnetic properties of materials used in them. With extensive insolance tables, conversion factors and formulas, and an explanation of the basic mathematical principles involved, the appendices fully confirm the usefulness of this work for specialists and students alike.