Power Generation

Power Generation’s goal is to generate as much power as possible to charge our high-voltage battery, solely with the energy from the sun. Within Power Generation, we are separated into 2 subsystems: Array Integration and Array Simulation. Array Integration is responsible for ensuring that the array is integrated within our system and will be involved in creating a systematic design of our solar array layout, Maximum Power Point Tracker, and telemetry devices. Array Simulation is responsible for designing our simulation techniques through both hardware and software. So, if you’re interested in anything from power electronics to software design, there is a place for you within Power Generation. 

Regarding our Array Layout, you will be able to design its orientation, to minimize our power loss. For our Maximum Power Point Tracker, you will be able to join in on the design process of this complex power electronic device. This interfaces hardware devices in the form of a boost converter and sensors with a software algorithm using firmware, to find the maximum power point needed to charge the battery. For Telemetry, you will be able to aid in the design of our Blackbody system, which collects irradiance and temperature data of our solar array. Finally, for our simulation techniques, you will be able to design various simulation software, such as our Curve Tracer, and hardware setups such as our solar cell characterization device, which is essential to simulating the behavior of our array under various conditions.