Mechanical 5 - Solar Panel Device

Student Team: 4 ME and 2 EM students
Advisor: T. Tollefsbol
Sponsoring Organization:  T&D Program/Engineering Management      
Liaison: tbd/Peter McKenny

Project Background:

Construct a mounting platform for four solar panels, design and build a device to deliver maximum electrical output from the panels throughout the day, and verify each panel provides an electrical output which is similar to specified test data.

Project Goal:

 Installation and testing of four/eight solar panels.

Project Deliverables:

1.      Construct suitable platform and mount solar panels

2.      Measure electrical output and compare to manufacturer’s test data sheets

3.      Design and build a device to maximize electrical output throughout the day

4.      Complete all electrical/mechanical testing to verify overall operation.

Project Management and Communication Expectations:

1.      Develop overall project plan and update weekly

2.      Conduct weekly team meeting with documented minutes including assigned action items/due dates and timesheet indicating hours spent and work completed

Project Research:

1.      Review and document all prior work in area (including history of solar panel development)

2.      Methods of installing and testing solar panels