You can freely build on How Amorphous Silicon Changed Solar Power

What this patent covers

The patent details a method for creating semiconductor devices using amorphous silicon, which is silicon that lacks a rigid, repeating crystal structure. By using a process called glow discharge in silane gas, the inventors created a material that could form effective electronic junctions. Specifically, the patent claims devices where this amorphous silicon is paired with metallic regions or other semiconductor layers to create barriers that generate a space charge region. This allows the device to capture solar radiation and convert it into electricity, or function as a basic electronic component.

What is now free to use

All 1 claims of US 4064521 are in the public domain. Specifically:

The 1 dependent claim add narrowing limitations and are also free.

What is NOT covered

Patent expiry frees this specific invention. Separately-patented improvements made after expiry may still be protected.

• Does not cover crystalline silicon, which is the standard material used in most traditional computer chips.

• Does not cover any manufacturing process that does not use a glow discharge in silane gas.

• Does not cover devices where the amorphous silicon layer is thicker than one micron if the specific electronic performance claims are not met.

Who is building on this today

The technology pioneered by RCA is now the foundation for the entire thin-film photovoltaic industry. Companies like First Solar and various manufacturers of consumer-grade solar electronics continue to refine the deposition processes originally explored in this era.

Products built on expired version of this technology

How to cite this patent in your documentation

RCA Corp. US Patent 4064521. Semiconductor device having a body of amorphous silicon. Granted 1977, expired 1996. Now in the public domain.

Note: This is a convenience citation. Consult a patent attorney for formal freedom-to-operate analysis.

PatentBrief is an educational resource and does not provide legal advice. Patent expiration information is derived from USPTO records and may not reflect continuation patents, divisional filings, or separately-patented improvements. For commercial use or production decisions, obtain a formal freedom-to-operate (FTO) opinion from a registered patent attorney.