Modeling and Simulation of a Bonding Process for Space Solar Cells

A bonding process for space solar cells implemented by an automated coating and bonding system was theoretically investigated for future parametric studies to achieve better bonding quality.First,the mechanical pmpetries of sillcone adhesive and the vacuum.suction cup were experimentally analyzed.Based on the constitutive relationship of four parts in the bonding process,the dynamic bonding process was modeled systematically,and numerically simulated by a commercial finite element analysis code,Adina.The final bonding edge-alignment error and the thickness and uniformity of the adhesive layer were obtained from simulation and validated by experiments.A simulation platform was created for predicting the final bonding quality via adjusting bonding parameters when dimensions of the solar cells and adhesive were changed.