To convert the energy of sunlight into direct electric current, solar cells are used - devices that consist of a semiconductor material. The advantage of solar panels is their stability and reliability. You can even assemble such a device at home.
Necessary
- - Solar cells;
- - plastic crosses;
- - glue;
- - thin plexiglass;
- - substrate;
- - diode;
- - junction box;
- - mounting tape.
Instructions
Step 1
Choose correctly the main element of the solar battery - photographic plates. The output power of the device depends on the choice made. Better to use silicon solar cells.
Step 2
Pick up the box in which the photographic plates will need to be inserted. The frame must not conduct current, for example, it can be made of wood. Make a markup, that is, draw a grid inside the box, while leaving five-millimeter gaps between the solar cells.
Step 3
To prevent the solar cells from sliding out, glue plastic crosses at the gaps. Cut holes for the wires in the wooden box.
Step 4
Connect the photographic plates to the wires (if they are not already connected), then glue the solar cells to the frame, and thread all the wires through the holes drilled in advance. It is important to remember that the power of the solar battery and the current strength depend on the connection method. So, if you need to achieve a certain current strength, parallel connection of solar cells is performed (a serial connection allows you to get the desired voltage indicator).
Step 5
Use thin (2mm) plexiglass for the front cover. The thickness of the substrate should be no more than four millimeters. To seal all the seams around the perimeter, cover with construction tape, then pass the joints between the plywood (bottom of the box) and construction tape with office tape.
Step 6
Connect the junction box and fix it to the wooden frame to drain the power. Be sure to install a diode in the break of the terminal block (it will prevent current leakage at night).
Step 7
Install a self-assembled solar panel on a roof or other unshaded place.
