Junction box with a support member for thin film photovoltaic devices and their methods of manufacture

Abstract

Photovoltaic devices are generally provided that can include, in one particular embodiment, a transparent substrate; a plurality of thin film layers defining a plurality of photovoltaic cells connected in series to each other on the transparent substrate; a first lead connected to one of the photovoltaic cells; and, an encapsulation substrate on the plurality of thin film layers. The encapsulation substrate can generally define a back surface and a connection aperture through which the first lead extends. A junction box can be positioned over the connection aperture and connected to the first lead. The junction box generally comprises a support member extending through the connection aperture to mechanically support the transparent substrate in an area opposite to the connection aperture. Methods and kits are also generally provided.

Dependencies are inferred from the claim text.