Foxbox ideal for automated assembly of PV arrays

Multi-Contact has launched the Foxbox, a junction box designed to help manufacturers of solar-panel modules increase their productivity.

The compact Foxbox has been designed for use in the automated assembly of polycrystalline photovoltaic (PV) arrays.

The junction box consists of two parts, with interchangeable cables and diodes fitted into the cover.

The backplate is mounted on the PV module and the cover clips on, with spring pressure ensuring a reliable long-term connection.

As the mounting of the backplate can be monitored using optical sensors, reliability in automated assembly is high.

By clipping on the cover at the end of the production line, entanglement of cables is avoided, which is often a problem with fully automated assembly.

As well as enabling the rapid automated manufacture of panel systems, Multi-Contact said the design makes it simple to unclip and replace components in a single unit during servicing without the need to return the module to the workshop.

This is said to be an advantage if the panels are located in difficult-to-access areas such as those encountered with rooftop installations.

The units are also suitable for manual assembly, where the clip-on design is an advantage.

The use of spring pressure to make the electrical contacts means that assembly costs are reduced, as soldering is not required.

The high contact forces are said to ensure high reliability throughout the lifecycle of the product.

Jointly developed with Spelsberg, the Foxbox is rated for currents up to 10A, with voltage ratings of 1,000V (IEC) and 600V (UL).

The units are TUV approved and UL approval is pending.

Environmental protection is to IP65.

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