Solar Shade Parametric CAD Modeling

Presenter

Brian Kenneth Boland

Group Members

Cris Torres Mejia

Campus

Fitchburg State University

Sponsor

Soumitra Basu, Department of Engineering Technology, Fitchburg State University

Schedule

Session 1, 10:30 AM - 11:15 AM [Schedule by Time][Poster Grid for Time/Location]

Location

Poster Board A7, Campus Center Auditorium, Row 1 (A1-A20) [Poster Location Map]

Abstract

In this project, principles of mechanics and strength of materials are applied to a “solar shade” on a building where solar panels harvest energy while also providing shade. The panels are positioned on a collapsible, hinged metal frame.

 

The type of material, geometry and the inertial characteristics of the metal frame are viewed as input variables in a Computer Aided Design (CAD) process where the model parameters are linked to computed variables. This is an example of “parametric design” with a solid modeling CAD software (SolidWorks). 

 

The collapsible solar shade experiences static and dynamic loads. The frame therefore must be designed in a way to articulate correctly, support the solar panels securely in the presence of wind load and stay attached to a surface (wood, masonry, etc.) The research project identifies the critical parameters that affect structural mechanics and resistance to wind load. These variables drive the design of the shade so that its dimensional attributes and the properties of the constituent members (modulus of elasticity, strength, and torsional rigidity) are linked to changes in wind load and frame geometry. The synthesis of wind load as a function of geometry and computed stresses, strains and flexure with a solid model paves the way for a subsequent multi-objective optimization process. 

 

The model will be prototyped through 3d printing. Linear deformations, twist, and flexure in response to loads will be measured and compared with theoretical data.

Keywords

innovative, force analysis, design

Research Area

Engineering

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