Solar Energy Collection and Management for Networked Infomechanical Systems (NIMS)

Method: the experimentation tested various properties under different conditions to characterize the solar cells. Results: established the amount of power the solar array could harvest in a day. Some effects of shading and complete coverage on the solar panel were factored and evaluated. The effects of weather on the solar system were found and analyzed. Conclusions: the battery bank needs a minimum of three days of storage (for short-term deployment) more is optimal. The solar panels should be connected in array to receive more power. To collect more energy from the sun, the array should have an angle of includination of latitude+15 degrees. There is room for additional study on the PV system, particularly the stress on the solar cells due to obstructions. A possible finding upon further study might implement a circuit that cuts off the load if the voltage drops below 11v. Upon testing the solar panels in the field, mounted horizontally, it was found that enough energy was provided to power the node for a 24-hour period.