[RE-wrenches] Small PV system/experiment for kids

[Stephen Kane]

Jason,

Similar to Karl's suggestion, we have built a few education systems with a
small PV module direct to a 12 VDC bilge/sump pump like the Rule models
(with some fusing and disconnecting means of course). 
Showing movement of water when the module is in clear sun vs partially or
completely shading the module seems like an effective way to demonstrate to
kids how solar works with a direct load.
The whole setup is pretty simple and affordable.

Stephen Kane
Kane Solar
Lyons, CO

-----Original Message-----
From: re-wrenches-bounces at lists.re-wrenches.org
[mailto:re-wrenches-bounces at lists.re-wrenches.org] On Behalf Of Jesse Dahl
Sent: Wednesday, December 12, 2012 7:58 AM
To: RE-wrenches
Subject: Re: [RE-wrenches] Small PV system/experiment for kids

This is for older kids, but may help.  I did a project for a 7th - 10th
grade science class.  The school wanted one module and batteries, but I
talked them out of any batteries, and they went with a small awning mount
array and grid tied it with weather station, temp and irradiance meters
along with monitoring.  I created a small week long curriculum for the
teachers and walked them through the system using that curriculum.  Might be
a little more than you're looking for...

Jesse

Sent from my iPhone


Hi Jason,
When I was in fifth grade I built a little PV project. It consisted of a
very small module (smaller than a dollar bill) and a tiny dc motor mounted
in a box with string hooked up to it, and some weights. I demonstrated how
shading and irradiance levels affect how much weight the motor could lift. I
received an 'A'.

Karl Jaeger
LightWave Solar Electric


On Dec 12, 2012, at 8:08 AM, Jason Szumlanski <jason at fafcosolar.com> wrote:

> I have been approached by a local elementary school to develop a very
small PV related experiment or system that is appropriate for children aged
9-11. Not having kids myself, I have no idea where to start with this. They
are fine with mounting a PV panel on the roof, wall, or ground. They want
something interesting and/or interactive that the students can monitor over
time.
> 
> Has anyone done something like this that would be suitable?
> 
> Jason Szumlanski
> Fafco Solar
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