Overall Project
The Solar Tree team’s mission is to research, design, build and test a ~1.5 kW mobile solar charging system that is aesthetically pleasing. Solar panels are usually obscure things hidden away from plain view to the public, and our goal is to change that. We will provide a recharging station for the hundreds of electric utility vehicles on campus, and we are coordinating with campus Fleet Services to do so. After going through a range of considerations, we have decided to provide AC power in the first stage of our project. Despite the inefficiency, this will make the system compatible with the entire electric utility vehicle fleet and provide us the opportunity to provide power for most devices (leading to exciting showcase possibilities)!
We have finished most of our research and are currently in the design phase, and we anticipate building over the summer. While a challenge in every sense of the word, our team is optimistic, dedicated and ready to take it on; dream big and make things happen!
Solar Panel Subteam
Team leader: Lauren Rueda
Meeting time: Fridays at 3pm, S&E library. Email Lauren for specific room.
This subteam is focused on researching and designing the photovoltaic array for the Solar Tree. This includes researching solar panels and other electrical components, and working with the structural team to find the most optimal systems for the structure.
Electricity Storage Subteam
Mechanical Structure Subteam
Outreach Subteam
