This Machine Makes 33 Feet of Printed Solar Cells A Minute
Laura McQuarrie — May 22, 2013 — Eco
References: vicosc.unimelb.edu.au & gizmodo
These printed solar cells are produced at an astonishingly fast rate of 33 feet per minute and could have huge implications for the future of solar-powered objects and architecture.
The printer system developed by ‘VICOSC’ makes use of printing capabilities that have been around for awhile. Dr. David Jones, project coordinator and researcher at the University of Melbourne says, “We’re using the same techniques that you would use if you were screen printing an image on to a T-Shirt.” The photovoltaic cells are embedded into sheets of plastic or steel just like inks on a printed shirt.
Although the technology itself is nothing new, the process is an innovative one that cuts down the production time and cost of solar panels.
The printer system developed by ‘VICOSC’ makes use of printing capabilities that have been around for awhile. Dr. David Jones, project coordinator and researcher at the University of Melbourne says, “We’re using the same techniques that you would use if you were screen printing an image on to a T-Shirt.” The photovoltaic cells are embedded into sheets of plastic or steel just like inks on a printed shirt.
Although the technology itself is nothing new, the process is an innovative one that cuts down the production time and cost of solar panels.
Trend Themes
1. Printed Solar Cells - Using printing techniques to produce solar cells rapidly and efficiently.
2. Fast Production - Developing printing systems that can produce solar panels at a rate of 33 feet per minute.
3. Cost-effective Technology - Utilizing printing capabilities to reduce the production time and cost of solar panels.
Industry Implications
1. Renewable Energy - Leveraging printed solar cells to advance the renewable energy industry.
2. Manufacturing - Implementing fast production techniques for the manufacturing of solar panels.
3. Technology - Integrating innovative printing processes into the technology industry to improve solar-powered objects and architecture.
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