Flexible solar cells have received growing attention recently because of their ever-increasing range of applications. Here, the development of ultraflexible, lightweight, and high efficiency (19%) monocrystalline silicon solar cells with excellent reliability, mechanical resilience, and thermal performance is demonstrated by applying a corrugation method combined with laser patterning. The flexing mechanism converts large-scale rigid photovoltaic cells with interdigitated back contacts (IBCs) into a flexible version with a preserved efficiency. The corrugation technique is based on the formation of patterned grooves in active silicon to achieve ultraflexibility. As a result, islands of silicon with different shapes are obtained which are interconnected through the IBCs. Multiple corrugation patterns such as linear, honeycomb, and octagonal designs are studied, each resulting in different flexing capabilities in terms of flexing directionality and minimum bending radius, in addition to providing an atypical appearance with an aesthetic appeal. The corrugation method is shown to improve thermal dissipation (14.6% lower temperature) and to relieve the thermal mismatch challenge compared to the rigid cells because of the finlike architecture. Finally, encapsulation using a transparent polymeric material enables a robust performance of the flexible cells when exposed to different environmental conditions such as acid rain, snow, and mechanical shocks.
In recent years, there has been an increasing demand for unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) with various capabilities suitable for both military and civilian applications. There is also a substantial interest in the development of novel drones that can fly autonomously in different environments and locations and perform various missions. Nevertheless, current battery‐powered UAVs are limited by their flight range. Consequently, several approaches are being developed to enhance the flight endurance of drones, including augmenting the drone with solar power. In this review, the different classifications of drones that have been developed based on their weight and flight range are identified. Then, the design challenges of the electrical systems embedded in the flying drones are explained. Next, approaches used to increase the flight endurance using various types of solar cells with respect to their materials and mechanical flexibility, in addition to various navigation and control approaches, are discussed in detail. Finally, limitations of existing solar‐powered UAVs are presented in addition to proposed solutions and recommendations for the next generation of drones.
respect to their materials and mechanical flexibility, in addition to various navigation and control approaches. Finally, limitations of existing solar-powered UAVs are presented in addition to proposed solutions and recommendations for the next generation of drones.
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