Solar Panel Visual Inspection System (IEC 61215-2, MQT 01).

The Solar Panel Visual Inspection System provides the controlled conditions for the visual inspection defined in IEC 61215-2 (MQT 01). It is built to reveal the visual defects a photovoltaic module can develop — cracks, bubbles, delamination, discolouration and similar flaws — both before and after the other qualification tests in the sequence.

The module is illuminated from the front and from behind by independently controlled lighting at no less than 1000 lux, and an operator examines it through a camera that travels on X and Y axes with at least 20× optical zoom. The live image is shown on a 43-inch display, so fine detail across a large module can be inspected without moving the panel.

The sample is held by hand without tools, stays at the chosen angle and can be rotated a full turn; the fixture accepts module frames from 5 mm to 50 mm thick and panel sizes from 1.90 × 1.0 m up to 2.60 × 1.5 m. The aluminium-profile structure and replaceable G13/T8 lamps keep the station serviceable.

ULMEKA designs and manufactures this system. Lighting layout, camera travel and fixturing are built to the module sizes and the applicable standard; the exact configuration is defined during the quotation stage.