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University of Michigan Solar Car

completed

Race Electrical Lead for the UM Solar Car Team

solarelectronicsPCBbattery management

Overview

Served as Race Electrical Lead for the University of Michigan Solar Car Team, working on Electrum, the 2019 competition vehicle. The team placed 3rd in the World Solar Challenge in Australia.

Technical Details

  • Developed custom PCB to electrically connect and monitor experimental Li-ion pouch cells for a 6kWh pack with only 20kg of cells
  • Designed the solar array layout and wiring for the 2019 solar car, Electrum
  • Improved the Battery Management System by enhancing efficiency and modularity
  • Planned integration of all electrical systems with each other and with mechanical systems
  • Designed and programmed a supplemental BMS for a secondary emergency battery; assembled a custom 172V, 100A battery pack using 18650 cells
  • Designed and manufactured a 2.0 sqm silicon cell supplemental solar array that could fold to fit in the back of the car