US 9666732

Here's a concise summary of US Patent 9666732:

Title: High-efficiency solar cell structures and methods of manufacture
Assignee: First Solar Inc
Inventors: Oliver Schultz-Wittmann, Denis DeCEUSTER
Filing Date: August 19, 2015
Issue Date: May 30, 2017

Abstract:
The patent discloses solar cells of varying composition, generally comprising a central substrate, conductive layer(s), antireflection layers(s), passivation layer(s), and/or electrode(s). It highlights multifunctional layers that combine functions such as passivation, transparency, sufficient conductivity for vertical carrier flow, the junction, and varying degrees of anti-reflectivity. Improved manufacturing methods are also described, including single-side Chemical Vapor Deposition (CVD) processes and thermal treatment for layer formation and/or conversion.

Plain-Language Overview of Independent Claims:

The patent contains several independent claims covering both solar cell structures and methods of manufacturing them. Based on the provided patent text, the key independent claims focus on the combination of layers and manufacturing processes for high-efficiency solar cells.

• Independent Method Claim (from Summary of the Invention):
  One aspect of the invention covers a method for fabricating solar cell structures. This method includes providing a wafer as a central substrate, followed by the deposition or growth of interface passivation layers over the substrate. Subsequently, conductive layers are deposited over the passivation layers, and a thermal treatment is applied. The method also allows for optional deposition of antireflective layers (which may include back-side mirrors) and the provision of metallization to form electrodes.

• Independent Method Claim (Multifunctional Film):
  Another independent claim describes a method that involves applying a heat treatment to produce a multifunctional film. This film then separates into a surface passivating interface layer and a highly doped polycrystalline passivation layer with high transparency.

• Independent Method Claim (Crystallization):
  A further independent claim focuses on a method that includes depositing an amorphous, silicon-containing compound. A heat treatment is then used to initiate the crystallization of this compound into a polycrystalline film.

• Independent Method Claim (Optical Transmissivity):
  Another independent method claim details depositing an amorphous, silicon-containing compound and subsequently using a heat treatment that not only leads to the crystallization of the film but also increases its optical transmissivity.

• Independent Method Claim (Doping Activation):
  An independent claim covers depositing an amorphous, silicon-containing compound and then using a heat treatment to activate doping atoms within the compound.

• Independent Method Claim (High-Temperature Doping and Diffusion):
  One embodiment of the invention comprises depositing an amorphous, silicon-containing compound and applying a thermal treatment greater than 500° C. This treatment activates doping atoms in the compound and results in the diffusion of these dopant atoms into a substrate wafer to create either a high-low junction or a p-n junction.

CAFC 2026 Dockets:
A search of the CAFC 2026 dockets did not return any specific cases or mentions of US patent 9666732 as of April 26, 2026. The available scheduled cases for April, May, and June 2026 do not list this patent number.