Design Process Phases
In this phase we identify the problem and customer needs. Research the basic engineering and scientific principles , related technology and existing solutions associated with the project. Specify the requirements to articulate what the system must do for it to be successful.
In this phase we generate many different concepts for possible solutions to our problem, and evaluate the competing alternatives to pick the best design. Create a plan for how and when we will meet our major milestones. Write the proposal, a summary of what we plan to do for our client and what the client will do for us, including: the project overview, research completed, description of our design, budget, and schedule/deliverables.
Detailed Design and Subsystems Test
This phase will include our final design and tests of each subsystem within that design. Subsystems being tested are Bluetooth app connectivity between Arduino and Android. Once this is established we can begin to test connections between the Arduino, solar module, and LiFePO4 batteries, as well as current and voltage readings from battery and solar panels. Then we move to test Android App connectivity to an outside website for data logging.
Integration and Test
After all subsystem testing is complete we can begin to integrate all parts of total system. We will test the solar module input all the way through to the battery and solar module output. We will also test different load sizes to determine battery charge.