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4 comments:

  1. We're currently working on figuring out the configuration of for the solar panels. As well as the structure on which the solar panels will be positioned. Solar panels, Inverters, converters and optimizers are being studied to determine the best possible setup for our battery. The software for calculating loads, cost, and cash flow used are PVsol, PVsyst and SAM.

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  2. This week I contributed to the team by calculating for a sytem of 12.4 kW that moved 4.8 min on the Spartan Superway track. This was done using Pycharm with this python file Here: https://sites.google.com/site/albertolopezoiloftrop/spartan-superway-solar-summer-2017

    The calculations for PVsyst, PVsol and SAM are all found in the link above as well. There is image files and files to run the software. Trial versions for PVsyst and PVsol are in use so beware, they might not operate like the actual site.

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  3. This week I worked on learning the solar analysis softwares and what inputs must be determined to size a system. Previous bills with kWh or yield can be used as well as kW used per year. There is multiple ways of doing the analysis. Another way to choose how many solar panels are needed is the area desired for use. I also worked on building a solar panel structure that sits on top of the rails as shown here. There is a bracket that holds it together top of the track structure. I chose the shape as shown here: https://sites.google.com/site/albertolopezoiloftrop/spartan-superway-solar-summer-2017, with the brackets on the side that tighten and loosen, which allow for movement of the the panel if required. More work is still needed to finish this system.

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  4. This week I designed a clamp in SolidWorks for the support structure for The Futran System in South Africa and a bracket as seen here: https://sites.google.com/site/albertolopezoiloftrop/spartan-superway-solar-summer-2017

    I wanted to reduce cost and allow for them to be easily moveable if desired. A simple solar panel structure was also added to be able to set the brackets in place. These designs will be modified depening on the new structure. In addition, I spent some more time on sizing systems in SAM, PVsyst and PVsol. However, without any real inputs from the pod system of Futran Inc. in South Africa. More will be done in the next couple of weeks. An Engineer from Futran came from South Africa to give us guidance on further designing the structure to meet engineering standards. They curently do not have a Solar System design, this is where we come in to help.

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