The Boeing Company
Temperature controlled platform, system, and method for holding, probing, and testing solar cells

Abstract:

A platform for testing a solar cell is disclosed. The platform includes a plate defining a conductive surface configured to electrically contact the solar cell, two or more first vacuum ports disposed along a first area of the conductive surface of the plate, and two or more second vacuum ports disposed along a second area of the conductive surface of the plate. The second area covers a larger portion of the conductive surface compared to the first area. The solar cell is sized to seat against the first area of the conductive surface. The platform also includes a valve-sensor unit in fluid communication with the first vacuum ports and the second vacuum ports and a control board connected to the valve-sensor unit. The control board executes instructions to monitor a first pressure in the first vacuum ports and a second pressure in the second vacuum ports by the valve-sensor unit.