Test Module Testing Plan

Testing data:https://docs.google.com/spreadsheets/d/1wUV_xhaDlA8TH_6aYkhI0XrEKF64Y7xCR2FrybDJHgY/edit?usp=sharing  

Bypass diode testing:

• To test a bypass diode in a solar panel, use a multimeter in diode or continuity mode. Connect the probes to the diode's terminals and observe the readings. A healthy diode will show a low resistance (forward voltage) in one direction and a high resistance (open circuit) in the other. If the diode shows low resistance in both directions, it's shorted, and if it shows high resistance in both directions, it's open. 

• Here's a more detailed breakdown:

  • 1. Preparation:

    • Disconnect the solar panel from the electrical system and ensure no power is flowing through it.

    • Determine which terminal is the anode and which is the cathode. 

  • 2. Testing with a Multimeter:

    • Diode or Continuity Mode: Set your multimeter to the diode or continuity mode

    • Reverse Probes: Reverse the probes (cathode to anode, anode to cathode) and repeat the measurement. 

  • 3. Interpretation of Results:

    • Forward Direction: The multimeter should display a low resistance reading (around 0.6-0.7 volts).

    • Reverse Direction: The multimeter should display a high resistance reading (open circuit or infinity).

    • Faulty Diode:

      • Shorted: Low resistance in both directions.

      • Open: High resistance in both directions. 

• Voltage Drop:

  • Put multimeter in diode mode in forward bias 

    • Anode to cathode 

    • https://www.fluke.com/en-us/learn/blog/digital-multimeters/how-to-test-diodes?srsltid=AfmBOopQ5OR4hEJZGfkLzujaVzLNGNq29Xe0WGD63qJSa2RsLd33hrAS&utm_source=chatgpt.com

Backing Testing:

• Weight testing

  • Test the weight of backing 

    • Hard backing - https://www.coveme.com/dymat-spv-backsheet/

    • Soft backing - just ETFE layer

    • No backing - exposed POE

  • Figure out the weight difference between the three 

  • Figure out what is most optimal for the top shell

• Adhesive and curvature testing

  • “ I just got off a call with SunCat Solar asking them about the different adhesion methods to attach an array to the topshell. He mentioned utilizing Glue-on-a-roll which is essentially the adhesive material that is on VHB tape without the foam which will allow our adhesion to be more thin/aerodynamic. I think we should definitely ask D2 about the thickness and weight of the cells after lamination because if the modules are quite thin (<2mm) after lamination then we could opt for a liquid adhesive such as GE Silicone 2 which he recommends using. Overall, we should definitely talk with D2 about the properties of the modules after lamination and ask for their input on the method of adhesion and also do our own testing so if we could create a 3D model of the bidirectional curvature by the time the test modules come in, that would be quite helpful to see what method works best for us.”

  • Ask Advait if he can make a composite layup to mimic the topshell 

  • Ask Aeroshell to print out 3D model of curve

  • Test different adhesion methods 

    • Glue-on-a-roll

    • VHB Tape 

    • GE Silicone 2

Connection testing

• Solder front and back connectings 

• Which one looks better/is more aerodynamic