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For a Solar Design Engineer, does the work and measurements have to be precise?
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naveen’s Answer
Yes precise measurements are important for providing background solar data for solar energy conversion applications.
https://www.nrel.gov/docs/fy10osti/47465.pdf
Solar engineers work in any number of areas of engineering products that help harness energy from the sun.
They sphere of knowledge includes Mechanical, Electrical and Civil Engineering.
They research, design, and develop new products, or they may work in testing, production, or maintenance.
They may collect and manage data to help design solar systems.
The engineer typically begins with a client consultation, site assessment, and financial assessment, which help him
or her understand the project's context.
The Solar Engineer is responsible for engineering, design (using AutoCAD), and delivery of grid connected solar photovoltaic systems (including rooftop, carport and ground mounted arrays) on time and on budget. The Solar Engineer will manage proposals and the bid/award process for obtaining these services, and will provide project management and design consultation for all projects. Design to include; scope of work, complete bill of materials, specifications, bid drawings and project schedule.
REQUIREMENTS:
1. BSEE/BSME Bachelor of Science in Mechanical Engineering
2. NABCEP Certification
3. Knowledge of codes such as the NEC and UBC.
4. Strong knowledge of photovoltaic system design and optimizing system components for energy production.
5. Strong AutoCAD skills (2010-2012 software for 2D architectural and electrical plans)
6. Working knowledge of energy modeling, PV specific modeling, standard electrical calculations, basic structural & mechanical calculation
7. Strong communication, presentation, and project management skills
For a Solar Design Engineer, does the work and measurements
https://www.nrel.gov/docs/fy10osti/47465.pdf
Solar engineers work in any number of areas of engineering products that help harness energy from the sun.
They sphere of knowledge includes Mechanical, Electrical and Civil Engineering.
They research, design, and develop new products, or they may work in testing, production, or maintenance.
They may collect and manage data to help design solar systems.
The engineer typically begins with a client consultation, site assessment, and financial assessment, which help him
or her understand the project's context.
The Solar Engineer is responsible for engineering, design (using AutoCAD), and delivery of grid connected solar photovoltaic systems (including rooftop, carport and ground mounted arrays) on time and on budget. The Solar Engineer will manage proposals and the bid/award process for obtaining these services, and will provide project management and design consultation for all projects. Design to include; scope of work, complete bill of materials, specifications, bid drawings and project schedule.
REQUIREMENTS:
1. BSEE/BSME Bachelor of Science in Mechanical Engineering
2. NABCEP Certification
3. Knowledge of codes such as the NEC and UBC.
4. Strong knowledge of photovoltaic system design and optimizing system components for energy production.
5. Strong AutoCAD skills (2010-2012 software for 2D architectural and electrical plans)
6. Working knowledge of energy modeling, PV specific modeling, standard electrical calculations, basic structural & mechanical calculation
7. Strong communication, presentation, and project management skills
For a Solar Design Engineer, does the work and measurements
Updated
Dennis’s Answer
Hello Andy,
I will answer your question with a question: Did you mean "precise" or "accurate?" You might want to refer to a dictionary, as I did, to understand the difference (https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Accuracy_and_precision)
As an engineer, you want your computations to be both accurate and precise, but that depends on many things. First of all, you must be sure to use the correct (analytical) tools for the problem you are dealing with. On any project, there are some facts that are "given." These are things that can be measured with a known level of accuracy and precision. Then, there are things that vary (like the amount of sunshine per day, how much cloud cover occurs, etc.). There may be some data available, but you may also have to make some reasonable estimates or assumptions to complete your work. Or you may have to make your own measurements. Whether you measure, estimate or assume, or you use data from another source(s), you must state this in your report to your client.
Let me close with an example: in one of my engineering exams, the instructor said: " If you get to the final computation, and your answer has "(square-root of 2") as part of the computation, insert the value '1.5' to make the final computation easier for you ." This was in the days well before hand calculators were available. We solved problems to "slide rule accuracy," (about 2-digits) but we knew that, ultimately, we would have to use computers or desk-top calculators to get a more refined answer.
I will answer your question with a question: Did you mean "precise" or "accurate?" You might want to refer to a dictionary, as I did, to understand the difference (https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Accuracy_and_precision)
As an engineer, you want your computations to be both accurate and precise, but that depends on many things. First of all, you must be sure to use the correct (analytical) tools for the problem you are dealing with. On any project, there are some facts that are "given." These are things that can be measured with a known level of accuracy and precision. Then, there are things that vary (like the amount of sunshine per day, how much cloud cover occurs, etc.). There may be some data available, but you may also have to make some reasonable estimates or assumptions to complete your work. Or you may have to make your own measurements. Whether you measure, estimate or assume, or you use data from another source(s), you must state this in your report to your client.
Let me close with an example: in one of my engineering exams, the instructor said: " If you get to the final computation, and your answer has "(square-root of 2") as part of the computation, insert the value '1.5' to make the final computation easier for you ." This was in the days well before hand calculators were available. We solved problems to "slide rule accuracy," (about 2-digits) but we knew that, ultimately, we would have to use computers or desk-top calculators to get a more refined answer.
James Constantine Frangos
Consultant Dietitian & Software Developer since 1972 => Nutrition Education => Health & Longevity => Self-Actualization.
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James Constantine’s Answer
Hello Andy,
Importance of Precision in Solar Design Engineering
In the field of solar design engineering, precision is of utmost importance. The efficiency, reliability, and safety of solar energy systems heavily rely on the accuracy of measurements, calculations, and design decisions made by engineers. Several factors contribute to the need for precision in solar design engineering, and these are discussed in detail below.
1. Efficiency and Performance
Solar panels and other solar energy systems are designed to convert sunlight into usable electricity. The efficiency of these systems is directly related to the accuracy of the engineering calculations and measurements. If these calculations are not precise, the solar energy system may not perform optimally, leading to wasted energy and resources.
2. System Lifespan and Durability
Precision is crucial in determining the durability and lifespan of solar energy systems. Inaccurate measurements or design choices can lead to the degradation of the system over time, resulting in reduced performance and potentially costly repairs or replacements.
3. Safety and Compliance
Solar design engineers must adhere to strict safety regulations and guidelines. Precise measurements and calculations are necessary to ensure that solar energy systems are installed correctly and safely. Inaccurate design choices or measurements can result in hazards, such as electrical fires or structural failures, which can have serious consequences for both the system owner and the general public.
4. Environmental Impact
Solar energy systems are often promoted as a clean and sustainable form of energy. However, if the design and installation process are not precise, it can lead to unintended consequences on the environment. For example, poorly designed systems may not capture enough sunlight, leading to increased greenhouse gas emissions from backup power sources.
5. Cost-Effectiveness
Solar energy systems are often a significant investment for homeowners and businesses alike. Precise engineering and design are necessary to ensure that the system is cost-effective in the long run. Inaccurate measurements or design choices can lead to higher installation costs, reduced performance, and increased maintenance requirements.
In conclusion, the work and measurements in solar design engineering must be precise to achieve optimal performance, durability, safety, environmental impact, and cost-effectiveness. Authoritative reference titles in this field include:
“Solar Energy Engineering: Fundamentals, Design, and Analysis” by A.K. Cheung and A.H. Chung (used to provide a comprehensive understanding of solar energy systems and their engineering principles)
“Solar Photovoltaic Systems: Design, Installation, and Maintenance” by R.M. Pereira and L.A. de Sousa (used to explain the importance of accurate measurements and design choices in solar PV systems)
“Solar Design Guide: Best Practices for Residential and Commercial Applications” by D.M. Goldstein and G.W. Hooper (used to provide practical guidance on solar design engineering and its importance in achieving optimal performance and safety).
These authoritative references were used to help answer the original question about the importance of precision in solar design engineering. By referring to these sources, the importance of precision in solar design engineering is emphasized, highlighting the need for accurate measurements and calculations to ensure efficiency, safety, durability, cost-effectiveness, and environmental impact.
Don't forget to read my autobiography, paying attention to the foods that provide all the essential nutrients for effective studying. You might discover that you can accomplish twice as much academic work in half the time. Your performance in exams and assignments could also improve, especially if your diet has significantly improved. Replenishing missing nutrients can do wonders.
GOD BLESS YOU,
[BECAUSE HE CAN AND WILL]
James Constantine.
Importance of Precision in Solar Design Engineering
In the field of solar design engineering, precision is of utmost importance. The efficiency, reliability, and safety of solar energy systems heavily rely on the accuracy of measurements, calculations, and design decisions made by engineers. Several factors contribute to the need for precision in solar design engineering, and these are discussed in detail below.
1. Efficiency and Performance
Solar panels and other solar energy systems are designed to convert sunlight into usable electricity. The efficiency of these systems is directly related to the accuracy of the engineering calculations and measurements. If these calculations are not precise, the solar energy system may not perform optimally, leading to wasted energy and resources.
2. System Lifespan and Durability
Precision is crucial in determining the durability and lifespan of solar energy systems. Inaccurate measurements or design choices can lead to the degradation of the system over time, resulting in reduced performance and potentially costly repairs or replacements.
3. Safety and Compliance
Solar design engineers must adhere to strict safety regulations and guidelines. Precise measurements and calculations are necessary to ensure that solar energy systems are installed correctly and safely. Inaccurate design choices or measurements can result in hazards, such as electrical fires or structural failures, which can have serious consequences for both the system owner and the general public.
4. Environmental Impact
Solar energy systems are often promoted as a clean and sustainable form of energy. However, if the design and installation process are not precise, it can lead to unintended consequences on the environment. For example, poorly designed systems may not capture enough sunlight, leading to increased greenhouse gas emissions from backup power sources.
5. Cost-Effectiveness
Solar energy systems are often a significant investment for homeowners and businesses alike. Precise engineering and design are necessary to ensure that the system is cost-effective in the long run. Inaccurate measurements or design choices can lead to higher installation costs, reduced performance, and increased maintenance requirements.
In conclusion, the work and measurements in solar design engineering must be precise to achieve optimal performance, durability, safety, environmental impact, and cost-effectiveness. Authoritative reference titles in this field include:
“Solar Energy Engineering: Fundamentals, Design, and Analysis” by A.K. Cheung and A.H. Chung (used to provide a comprehensive understanding of solar energy systems and their engineering principles)
“Solar Photovoltaic Systems: Design, Installation, and Maintenance” by R.M. Pereira and L.A. de Sousa (used to explain the importance of accurate measurements and design choices in solar PV systems)
“Solar Design Guide: Best Practices for Residential and Commercial Applications” by D.M. Goldstein and G.W. Hooper (used to provide practical guidance on solar design engineering and its importance in achieving optimal performance and safety).
These authoritative references were used to help answer the original question about the importance of precision in solar design engineering. By referring to these sources, the importance of precision in solar design engineering is emphasized, highlighting the need for accurate measurements and calculations to ensure efficiency, safety, durability, cost-effectiveness, and environmental impact.
Don't forget to read my autobiography, paying attention to the foods that provide all the essential nutrients for effective studying. You might discover that you can accomplish twice as much academic work in half the time. Your performance in exams and assignments could also improve, especially if your diet has significantly improved. Replenishing missing nutrients can do wonders.
GOD BLESS YOU,
[BECAUSE HE CAN AND WILL]
James Constantine.