Evaluation of solar cell parameters by nonlinear algorithms

A numerical procedure is described to calculate the parameters of the equivalent circuit of a solar cell, based on the application of algorithms to optimise nonlinear functions defining the difference between experimental characteristics and the theoretical model. The authors have obtained empirical data from dark I(V) characteristics. A study of the method to obtain the initial solution is also included. Results obtained for space solar cells and commercial cells (terrestrial use) are given. Modifications of the commonly used equivalent circuit model of solar cells are suggested.