IBIS (Integrated Blanket/Interconnect System), Boeing's solution for implementing IMM (Inverted Metamorphic) solar cells on a light-weight flexible solar panel

Abstract

Boeing has assembled a team of industry experts to develop a compact, flexible solar panel which will allow first to market implementation of next generation Inverted Metamorphic (IMM), 33% efficient solar cells for space. Under the IBIS (Integrated Blanket/Interconnect System) program, IMM solar cells will be integrated into modular solar cell assemblies that can be further assembled into a roll or fold-out blanket, compatible with Boeing's HPSA solar array deployment system. Such an array will provide unprecedented increases in power and an order of magnitude reduction in mass and stowage volume. IBIS, HPSA, and DARPA FAST (concentrator solar array) are part of a coordinated plan to deliver Boeing's next generation of high power solar arrays.