PLYMOUTH, Mich. (AP) -- Rofin-Sinar Technologies Inc., a maker of industrial lasers, said Thursday it will team up with Manz Automation AG of Germany to develop a new machine concept for the production of thin-film solar modules.
The goal is to develop a new type of manufacturing equipment for the photovoltaic industry that combines two processes: laser edge ablation and laser cutting of thin-film solar modules.
The companies expect the combination of technologies from Rofin-Sinar and Manz Automation will result in production cost savings and improvements in the quality of solar modules.
The joint project will start in September, and the new machines are expected to be ready within 12 months.
