Naked Science Forum

On the Lighter Side => Science Experiments => Topic started by: RoadSpawn on 22/01/2015 02:52:15

Title: Hobby type solar panels
Post by: RoadSpawn on 22/01/2015 02:52:15

My son and I are working on a science fair project. He created a lego car and I attached a 3.2v motor to it. I bought a 3v solar panel but it was not enough power to get it moving. I then bought a 7.2v panel but still got the same result. When I attached two AAA batteries (3v total), the car launched across the room.  Are the panels not generating at their rated volts? The day of the test was very sunny and bright. Do volts from solar panels not measure up to volts from batteries?

I know I need to lighten the weight of the lego car, but I was just wondering why we got these results? Thanks

RoadSpawn

Title: Re: Hobby type solar panels
Post by: Don_1 on 22/01/2015 15:45:16

Is your solar panel receiving enough light to attain its maximum potential output?

Try directing a powerful torch at the solar panel from a close range.

Title: Re: Hobby type solar panels
Post by: Colin2B on 15/02/2015 00:25:54

Quote from: RoadSpawn on 22/01/2015 02:52:15

Do volts from solar panels not measure up to volts from batteries?
RoadSpawn

You also need to consider current. What is the max load current of the motor, and what is the max output of the panel?
Ideally you would try to match the load impedance to the source, but in this case you will have to suck and see.
You might need more than one panel.