Thesis "FEM Analysis for Low-Stress Wire Interconnection"

The Fraunhofer-Gesellschaft (www.fraunhofer.com) currently operates 76 institutes and research units throughout Germany and is a leading applied research organization. Around 32 000 employees work with an annual research budget of 3.4 billion euros.

The Fraunhofer Institute for Solar Energy Systems ISE in Freiburg is the largest solar research institute in Europe. Our approximately 1,400 employees work towards a sustainable, economical, secure, and socially just energy supply system based on renewable energies. We contribute to this with our research focuses on energy provision, energy distribution, energy storage, and energy utilization. Through outstanding research results, successful industry projects, company spin-offs, and global collaborations, we are shaping the sustainable transformation of the energy system.

In the “Module Technology” department, we deal with the interconnection of crystalline silicon solar cells, their encapsulation in PV modules, detailed efficiency analysis, the simulation of thermo-mechanical reliability, the development of new module concepts for application-oriented use, for example in vehicle-integrated or building-integrated photovoltaics. We develop the associated manufacturing processes, evaluate new materials and carry out finite element method (FEM) simulations. Our developments focus on higher efficiencies, more cost-effective manufacturing processes and materials, improved long-term stability and new products.

The interconnection of solar cells in photovoltaic modules is predominantly carried out by soldering. The resulting thermomechanical stresses lead to challenges for the interconnection of new solar cell technologies and the long-term stability of photovoltaic modules. The use of the finite element method allowes to simulatively investigate and evaluate the interconnection process, including the variation of materials. Corresponding models are developed with which the mechanical stresses of the interconnection are determined in order to identify optimizations in the process control and material selection to enable minimal stress possible for the interconnection of the solar cells.

Would you like to play an active role in shaping the energy transition and write your thesis in this area? With us you will find the experts and the environment to realize these goals.

For our “Module Technology” department, we are looking for a student assistant with the opportunity to write a Bachelor's or Master's thesis at the earliest possible date.

What you will do

The goal of your thesis is to develop a multiphysical FEM model based on existing models to simulate mechanical stresses for the soldering of solar cells. You will build on existing FEM models.
With the FEM model, you will investigate the influence of interconnector geometries and shapes on mechanical stresses to enhance long-term stability.
You will participate in national research projects and validate your simulations with experimental data.
You will independently conduct literature research. You will present your results clearly in presentations.

What you bring to the table

You are studying engineering or natural sciences or a comparable field.
You have an interest in modeling and analysis.
You possess basic knowledge of the Finite Element Method, ideally with Comsol Multiphysics.
You have very good Excel skills, good Word and PowerPoint skills.
You have a high aptitude for complex technical and physical relationships.
You have a structured, committed, and independent working style, as well as analytical thinking skills and pronounced creativity.
You like to take responsibility and complete tasks independently, in a structured manner, and with high quality.
You are interested in motivating teamwork.
You find it easy to build and maintain trusting relationships.
You enjoy working constructively with others.
You can express yourself confidently in both German and English.

What you can expect

Exclusive Insight: In collaboration with the scientists of our unit, you will gain insight into the daily life of research and development at a research institute.
Research Mix: You will have the opportunity to combine experimental work with theory, applying and expanding your knowledge from your studies.
Supervision: You will be supervised by scientists during your work and receive feedback on your progress.
Teamwork: Through interaction with scientific and student employees, you will gain experience in teamwork and can contribute your previous experiences.
Working Hours and Location: We offer you the opportunity to flexibly adjust your working hours to your needs in consultation and occasionally work from home.
Equal Opportunities: We value equal opportunities and provide space for diversity.
After Work: Celebrate yourself and your colleagues at after-work events or our annual employee parties.

In addition to the thesis, a contract as a student assistant will be agreed upon. The remuneration will be based on the level of your academic qualification.

We value and promote the diversity of our employees' skills and therefore welcome all applications – regardless of age, gender, nationality, ethnic and social origin, religion, worldview, disability, as well as sexual orientation and identity. Severely disabled persons will be given preference in case of equal suitability.

Have we piqued your interest? Then apply online now with your detailed application documents. (incl. cover letter, CV, references/performance record) We look forward to getting to know you!

We will be happy to answer any questions you may have about this position:
Benjamin Grübel
+49 761 4588-2580

Fraunhofer Institute for Solar Energy Systems ISE

www.ise.fraunhofer.de

Requisition Number: 80177 Application Deadline:

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