This week, I began doing a rough calculation of the solar panel with using 1000W/m^2 of irradiance according to standard test conditions (STC) and the area of the solar panels. After further thought, these levels of energy produced are theoretical maximum which can only be reached under ideal conditions in a laboratory setting. More research led to using NASA's Surface Meteorology and Solar Energy Available Tables. The tables lists maximum radiation incident on an equator-pointed tilted surface per latitude and longitudinal input. The table also offers optimal angle per month of the year. For November and the location of the workshop, the optimal angle is 58 degrees southward. The average maximum radiation incident is 4.41kWh/m^2/day. Using this data, each of our solar panels can provide 373Wh/day of energy.

Testing Solar Panel

Last Friday, I brought home a set of the solar panels along with charging equipment. I began cleaning the equipment and making visual checks for damages. A rough outline of the circuit diagram was drawn on paper. I noticed that wire size seems be chosen randomly for various connections according to the battery box. I made a note to check NEMA standards for wire size according to amperage when measured. I ordered a multimeter to test amperage at various locations. Currently, I am working on incorporating quick disconnects and measurement points in the wiring schematic.

New Design Concept

For this week, we are exploring a new solar panel structure design that will incorporate pre-fabricated ribs from the manufacturing team. With this design we are hoping to reduce the time to fabricate ribs to support the solar panel. After finalizing this design, we will have to a failure analysis in order to compare with our previous design. After a choice is made, we should then work on the bill of material.