Schiller LLC

Schiller has engineered and delivered multiple lines using the proprietary BackBone concept, in which full size glass substrates up to and beyond Generation 5 glass sizes, are handled in a central control region and can be handed off to multiple process steps. Handing off full cassettes of glass between process stations greatly reduces the required manufacturing space. In addition, process stations can be maintained easily without affecting the line flow, and expansion systems can be added in the future allowing for significantly more throughput with less downtime. Companies using the BackBone have announced significant reductions in their cost per watt of the modules produced.

Unique ProLoad Stations

Schiller combines the BackBone concept with unique ProLoad stations that handle the substrates as they are being processed at any one step.  Separating the main handling and buffering capability of the BackBone with the high speed ProLoad stations allows for superior logistical control and specialized loading characteristics where needed.

Line Control (LC) Software

The BackBone and ProLoad systems are tied together with Schiller’s proprietary Line Control software system.  This fab-proven software provides a complete and ongoing picture of the status of production, and combines process and inspection data for factory managers to control their process.  Schiller Line Control software is operating in thin films Fabs seamlessly with MES and other fab-level software but can operate “stand alone” without the need for any higher-level package.  Schillers Line Control software in already in use at  eight factories, making and selling thin film modules successfully in continuous operation 24 hours per day, 7 days per week.

Key Aspects Of Our BackBone Concept

Automated Cassette Handling of Full Substrates Schiller Solutions for Thin Film Solar	Space Efficient Design Reduces Cost Buffering in existing operating space
BackBone serves Multiple ProLoad Stations Reduces Space Requirements	Specialized Low Vibration Transport System Schiller Solutions for Thin Film Solar
Cassettes Systems allows for Rapid Scaling Coordinated with Logistical Control and LC Software	ProLoad Services Multiple Process Systems Easily Ramp Production with additional process tools
Intelligent Automation Approach for Substrate Handling Maintain Substrate in consistent orientation	Specialized End Effectors for Specific Tasks Designed for very high temperatures and low vibration

 

Integrated Management Solutions