Goals
- Source PV cells
- Design PV array
- Integrate MPPTs into design
Background and strategic fit
PV cells are the primary source of power for our car. WSC and ASC allow 5m^2 of array space.
MSXII had very good cells, but due to minimum voltage requirements, we were forced to section our array into sub-optimal modules, reducing efficiency. We also had issues mounting the cells to the aerobody and damaged a majority of them.
Assumptions
- We want to shoot for a maximal array size
- We have a minimum voltage to meet per MPPT
- We're continuing to use the AERL RaceMax 600B MPPTs
Requirements
| # | Title | User Story | Importance | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Develop optimal array | We need to divide the array into sections to produce as much power as possible over the course of a day. | Must have | |
| 2 | Support supplementary modules | We might be allowed to bring an extra 1-2m^2 of PV cells for charging. This would be nice to support. | Optional | We are not allowed to have supplementary modules for ASC 2018. |
| 3 | Figure out how to interface with the MPPTs | It would be nice if we could read back the data from the MPPTs. | Optional | The AERL RaceMax 600B supports a meter module. See MPPT Interface Board for progress. |
User interaction and design
Questions
Below is a list of questions to be addressed as a result of this requirements document:
| Question | Outcome |
|---|---|
| How are we sectioning the array? | |
| How are we dealing with the different maximum array sizes? | |
| How are we integrating bypass diodes? |