(Created page with "'''Moving relevant information from CCAT_MEOW/OM onto this new page.''' This is the Operation and Maintenance (O&M) manual for CCAT mobile energy operations wagon (MEOW)...")
 
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===Bikes===
===Bikes===
There are four 12V bikes currently installed with the CCAT trailer. These bikes can be connected in series or in parallel electrically to increase voltage or current respectively. [[File:MEOW Bike.JPG|thumb|One of the four bikes]]
There are four 12V bikes currently located in the CCAT trailer. These bikes can be connected in series or in parallel electrically to increase voltage or current respectively.One of the bikes revived a new generator (need details of generator and the fabrication process of the bracket)
[[File:MEOW Bike.JPG|thumb|One of the four bikes]]


===PV System===
===PV System===
The MEOW has a 920 W PV system having four panels of 230 W each. The solar panels are connected to four 12 V, 102 aH (C-20) GEL cell batteries (Trojan Battery Company) in series producing 48 V to turn on a Outback GVFX48 inverter that can operate in both off-grid and on-grid applications. The system also has a charge controller that has 150 V limit. Necessary breakers to protect each component from overload current (between the PV panels and charge controller, between the charge controller and batteries, and between the batteries and inverter) have installed.
The MEOW has a 920 W PV system having four panels of 230 W each. The solar panels are connected to four 12 V, 100 AH, Absorbed Glass Mat (AGM)--Sealed Rechargeable Deep Cycle batteries that are solar specifically designed(Light Catcher Solar company). Batteries are in a series producing 48 V to turn on a Outback GVFX48 inverter that can operate in both off-grid and on-grid applications. The system also has a charge controller that has 150 V limit. Necessary breakers to protect each component from overload current (between the PV panels and charge controller, between the charge controller and batteries, and between the batteries and inverter) have installed.
 
===Inverter===
What does it do? It converts direct current (DC) from the batteries to alternating current (AC) that can be used in appliances and in the home
 
===Charge Controller===
A charge controller is used in the MEOW’s system to prevent overloading the batteries with charge or allowing the batteries to be drained too quickly.
 
==Maintenance==
The maintenance instructions for the trailer and PV system are shown here.
 
===License===
In order to keep in compliance with state law, the trailer should have its plate renewed every five years. The plate can be renewed at the following link: http://www.dmv.ca.gov/online/vrir/vr_top2.htm (Harper, 2010). [[File:MEOW License Plate.JPG|thumb|License plate, trailer lock and break lights]]
 
===Tires===
To keep the tires in good repair it is important the the tires pressure, tread, lugs, and bearings are all maintained. The following sections describe the maintenance required. [[File:MEOW Tires.JPG|thumb|Tires on left side of MEOW]]
 
;Tire Pressure
The pressure of the tires should be checked every 6 months and this pressure should be maintained at 30-60 psi. Keeping the pressure at the right level provides better fuel economy as well as maintaining the integrity of the tires (Harper, 2010).
 
;Tire Tread
A tread gauge should be used to check for tread depth every 2 years. The tires should be replaced when the tread depth drops below 4/32”. Standard tread depth is 7/32”.
 
The tires should be rotated every two years by moving the back tires to the front diagonally and the front tires straight back. This rotation will help to maintain evenness.
 
If the trailer has not moved in the last two months it should be moved slightly to balance wear on the tread. At this point bulging and cracking should be checked for on the sides of the tires to verify that there is no risk of blowout (Harper, 2010).
 
;Tire Lugs
The tire lug nuts should be checked for tightness before each use of the trailer. If they can be tightened by hand they are too loose (Harper, 2010).
 
;Tire Bearings
The bearings on the trailers wheels should be checked every 6 months or whenever grinding metal is heard while the trailer is moving.
 
To maintain the bearings the E-Z lube cap should be removed and the cavity should be filled at least one third to one half full with lithium complex NLGI consistency #2 grease.
 
Every two years the bearings should be repacked. This includes removing each of the bearings and greasing each individually. During repacking, each bearing should be checked for wear and cleaned of debris. While working with the grease it is important the grease does not make contact with skin, eyes and clothing (Harper, 2010).
 
===Trailer Brakes===
In order to maintain brakes it is important that the switches, pads and lights all be maintained. The following sections discuss these procedures (Harper, 2010).
 
;Battery Break and Breakaway Switch
 
For each trip the following five steps should be followed to inspect the battery brake and switch the instructions for which can be found in the How To section.
 
;Break Pads
The brakes should be inspected once a year. the brakes are checked by removing tires and inspecting each of the mechanical parts as well as the brake pads. The pads should be replaced if there thickness is measured to be less than 4/32”. This task can be performed by a mechanic or trained. CCAT technician (Harper, 2010).
 
;Break Lights and Turn Signals
For each trip the lights should be connected to the vehicle and checked. If one of the lights does not work confirm that the corresponding light on the vehicle works. If that is not the problem than the issue is with the connection between the trailer and the vehicle. Make sure that the connection is clean. If this does not solve the problem than check to make sure that the bulbs have not burnt out. As a last resort a mechanic or trained CCAT technician should investigate (Harper, 2010).
 
===Locks===
Powdered graphite can help to lubricate sticky locks. Grease and oil are actually counterproductive as they tend to attract debris that degrades the function of the lock. Graphite can be found at any local hardware store. The codes of the locks should be exchanged such that each of the three directors can remember the codes over there full directorship (Harper, 2010).
 
===Hitch===
The lever of the trailer hitch should be lubricated every 6 months. The connection should not move around at all when the lever is closed. If this occurs tighten the latch by wrenching tight the nut under the hitch. The hitch ball should be lubricated with WD-40, grease, hitch ball wax or beeswax. Extra lubricant should be wiped away (Harper, 2010). [[File:MEOW Hitch Lock.JPG|thumb|Hitch Lock]]
 
===Battery Vents===
The battery vent is used to evacuate used hydrogen gas from the batteries during equalization. The vent should be cleared of debris that could clog the vent once every year (Harper, 2010).[[File:MEOW Battery Vent.jpg|thumb|Battery Vent]]
 
===Fire Extinguisher===
There currently is no fire extinguisher inside of the MEOW unit and one should be installed immediately. The extinguisher is maintained yearly by checking to make sure that it is fully charged according to the dial on the side and that there is no physical damage to it. If the dial is in the red zone than the extinguisher should be replaced (Harper, 2010).
 
===General Inspection===
Each of the bolts and screws on the trailer should be inspected before use. The racks should also be checked every time to make sure no rusting or corrosion has occurred. If corrosion is such that structural integrity is threatened, the racks for the panels should be replaced (Harper, 2010).
 
===Bikes===
The bikes in the trailer should be maintained just like any other bike. The chain should be checked for rust and lubricated once a year. Loose connections should also be checked for in relation to the generator. Before each use of the MEOW the bikes should be checked to make sure that they are producing a current. If not, the generator should be checked by a trained technician (Harper, 2010).
 
===Solar Panels===
[[File:MEOW Panel.JPG|thumb|right|MEOW Solar Panels]]
It is important to clean solar panels on a regular basis to get optimal performance. Usually dust and bird droppings prevent solar radiation to fall on solar cells and thereby reduce the power output of the solar panel. Since the MEOW is a mobile vehicle and is used for various purposes in different locations within the community, it is a good practice to inspect and clean the solar panels before every use.
 
Cleaning off the surface of the solar panels with warm water and dishwashing soap to remove any accumulation of dust is one of the most cost effective methods. When cleaning, remember to also clean the frame and backing of the solar panel. If the surface of the panel is hot due to outside ambient, it is recommended to cool it down before applying soap. The hot panels could cause soap residue to form on the panel that would inhibit the passage of light (Harper, 2010).
 
It is also advised to check open circuit voltage (Voc) and short circuit current (Isc) of the solar panel before every use of MEOW. These parameters are used to find out the state of degradation of each solar panel and to determine if further testing or maintenance is required on the panels. A solar panel that produces noticeably less power than the others in the array can act as a resistor rather than a power source, reducing the productivity of the entire array (Harper, 2010).
 
 
===Solar Array Positioning===
Positioning for max efficiency (Arcata Latitude is 41°)
41° according to Lonny Grafman
41° + 15° for max efficiency in the summer
41° - 15° for max efficiency in the winter
 
===Junction Box===
[[File:CCAT MEOW JB.JPG|thumb|right|Junction Box]]
As humboldt county has relatively long rainy season, it is advisable to inspected junction box periodically to ensure that water is not collecting in the box. A maintenance person should look for degradation of the box itself or seal that could allow water into the junction box. If water is allowed to enter the junction box, the water could then enter the electronics located inside the trailer and cause electronic failure.
 
===Rain===
Make sure the doors are closed to keep out the rain
The coverings for the inverter, charge controller, and batteries should be on or screwed in.
 
 
===Battery and other electrical devices===
[[File:CCAT MEOW Battery.jpg|thumb|right|MEOW Battery Bank]]
Batteries
There are 4 deep cycle AGM Interstate batteries that are aligned in series
Average total voltage is 48V- 52V when fully charged
Around 40V is when the batteries are completely drained.
Do NOT use the MEOW’s energy when the voltage is around 40V this will cause permanent damage to the batteries.
Battery Testing
The battery voltage should be checked about once every month to make sure that the batteries aren’t being over charged or completely drained
Overcharged and drained are signs that the batteries need to be replaced.
 
Note: Do not leave the battery bank in a discharged state for any length of time, recharge as soon as possible.
 
===Bike belt check===
[[File:Bike belt alignment.jpg|thumb|right|MEOW bike band alignment]]
Ensure gears turn properly and straight.
Check belt, if cracking, broken or torn contact CCAT co-directors to replace belt.
To replace belts remove front wheel bolts and slide it back, remove the belt from the generators and place it gently on the ground. Then slide new belt onto large wheel, tighten the bolts and slip belt around the generator pulley. Check / tighten loose bolts, then test for security and stability of the replacement.
 
===Bicycle generators===
Check if wiring from generators is properly secure
 
 
=== Schedule ===
<!-- Please keep the format the same as it populates the kiosk in CCAT. -->
 
;Daily
*Check state-of-charge reading on charge controller (~1.25 at full charge)
*Inspect tire lugs
*Test breaks, break switches and break battery
*Check battery lights and turn signals
*Check trailers bolts and PV racks for corrosion
*Check that batteries are producing current
 
;Monthly
*Check battery terminals for corrosion, debris, or loose/exposed wires
*Check Battery Voltage every month the following link is for a fill in sheet to use to check the battery voltage[https://docs.google.com/document/d/1iQZvobZnsLN-3lyQSWOjV6sp4mQ44NhLM-sOBgqvRQM/edit]
*Move trailer several feet forward or backwards to balance tread wear (can be every other month)
 
;Every 6 months
*Cleaning of MEOW solar panel during rainy season
*Inspection of junction box. Check junction box seal, box degradation and inspection of water inside
*Check Tire Pressure
*Check and clean bearings
*Lubricate trailer hitch lever
 
;Yearly
*Check break battery health
*Check break pads
*Clear battery vent
*Check fire extinguisher
*Check bike chains for rust and electrical connections for looseness
 
;Every 2 years
*Check tire tread
*Rotate Tires
*Repack tire bearings
 
;Every 5 years
*Renew trailer license
*Replace batteries
 
=== Instructions ===
Step by step process for maintenance and inspection of various components of CCAT MEOW are given below. These are based on the MEOW maintenance manual developed by the ENGR 535 class of 2010.
 
{{How to
|title=How to check open circuit voltage (Voc) and short circuit current (Isc) of the solar panel
|File:MEOW Panel.JPG |MEOW Solar Panels |1 |Disconnect the solar panels from battery bank.
'''Step 2 :''' Remove the access panels from back side of each solar panel with the help of a screwdriver.
|File:mutimeter volate.jpg |Multimeter |3 |Test the open circuit voltage (Voc) by setting the multimeter to test DC Voltage and then holding the probes across the input and output terminals of the panel.
'''Step 4 :''' Test the short circuit current (Isc) by setting the multi-meter to test DC current, and again hold the probes across the terminals.
 
'''Step 5 :''' Record the readings for each panel and the ambient conditions in a maintenance log. If the panels vary by more than 20% in either voltage or current, contact appropriate solar technician.
 
}}
Note: The readings should be taken as quickly as possible for minimizing the effect of the
outside conditions and angle of the incoming sunlight. Ideally, readings will be taken on a
day with either no cloud cover, or no moving clouds so that the available solar radiation
stays constant (Harper,2010). A multi-meter, screwdriver, and ladder will be needed to measure
Voc and Isc. 
 
{{How to
|title=How to conduct battery maintenance
|File:CCAT MEOW Battery.jpg |MEOW battery bank |1 |Visually inspect the batteries to ensure they are not leaking or there is no crack in the outer jacket.
'''Step 2 :''' Make sure the battery connections not corroded and secure.
 
'''Step 3 :''' Deep-Cycle AGM batteries do not require watering.
 
'''Step 4 :''' Check the state of charge.
 
'''Step 5 :''' If fluid is on the top of the battery this means that the battery is being overcharged and the performance and life will be reduced.
 
'''Step 6 :''' Check that all vent caps are secured properly on the battery.
 
'''Step 5 :''' Clean the top of the battery, terminals and connections with a cloth or brush and a solution of baking soda and water. Do not allow cleaning solution to get inside the battery.
 
'''Step 5 :''' Keep the area around batteries clean and dry.
}}
 
===Battery Testing===
The battery voltage should be checked about once every month to make sure that the batteries aren’t being over charged or completely drained. Overcharged and drained symptoms indicate that the batteries need to be replaced.
 
{{#widget:YouTube|id=1eEt1kNHmMA}}
 
 
How to measure battery voltage? First grab a multimeter. Set the multimeter to the setting with a V⎓ (this symbol ⎓ will be underneath the V on the multimeter)
This setting is meant to measure ONLY direct current, which is the current batteries produce.
Do not use this setting for measuring the current in the inverter. They use AC current.
Then place the one prong on the bolt of one end of the battery and place the other prong on the other side of the corresponding battery.
A voltage reading will appear on the multimeter.
It doesn’t matter if it’s negative use the absolute value.
Write down the voltage.
Follow steps c-e for taking the voltage measurement of the rest of the batteries.
The importance of this testing is to see the health of each individual battery.
Any voltage below 12V means the battery is damaged and possibly in need of replacing.
 
 
{{How to
|title=How to Prepare the MEOW for a trip
|File:Breakaway_Switch.JPG|Battery Breakaway Switch |1 | Verify the electric plug is not connected to the towing vehicle.
'''Step 2 :''' The breakaway pin should be pulled forward in the direction of the hitch
 
'''Step 3 :''' A green light indication means that the brakes are charged if not the battery should be charged before departure.
 
'''Step 4 :''' When the battery is charged, test the brakes by attempting to move the trailer while the breaks are on.
 
'''Step 5 :''' The battery is charged using a maximum 1.2 Amp trickle charge. The battery should be replaced every 3-5 years depending on health.
}}
 
==Troubleshooting==
This is only how to troubleshoot basic operations.
{| class="wikitable"
|-
! Problem
! Suggestion
|-
| Battery does not charge or battery meter does not showing reading
| Inspect PV terminals are properly attached. Charge controller is working and no loose or open wire in junction box
|-
|Battery meter showing partial charging of battery
|[[File:CCAT MEOW battery meter.png|thumb|right|MEOW voltage from the PV array]]
Inspect the battery state of charge (do not preform equalization). Use outside source to charge battery and see how battery preforms. If not preforming, possible have to purchase new batteries. 
|-
|Outlet attached to the inverter isn't channeling a current to the extension cords that are used to power items. 
|[[File:MEOW breaker box.jpg|thumb|right|MEOW reset breaker box tape instructions]]
First, hit reset on the outlet inside the MEOW then check again if it is still not working
Next, check the voltage of the batteries.
In our current system if the voltage is around 40V then the batteries are drained and the inverter will no longer pull energy from the batteries to prevent permanent damage to the batteries.
Allow time for the solar panels to charge batteries up to at least 48V.
Check the breakers and make sure they are aligned as they should be and that everything is connected
|-
|Solar inverter with red light sensors
|{{#widget:YouTube|id=mGa0mip7Tyw}}
|}
 
[[Category:CCAT active project]]

Revision as of 16:22, 16 May 2019

Moving relevant information from CCAT_MEOW/OM onto this new page.

This is the Operation and Maintenance (O&M) manual for CCAT mobile energy operations wagon (MEOW). Please refer to it and keep it up to date with any O&M changes.The MEOW was constructed originally in 2003 to showcase solar electric power at concerts and other public gatherings. At these events the bikes are removed from the interior of the trailer and can generate electrical output when used. This power charges the same battery bank associated with the PV system and in turn the system together can power different loads at the event such as the sound system.


Operation

The following sections describe general operation procedures for the MEOW trailer and PV system.

Purpose

The MEOW was constructed originally in 2003 to showcase solar electric power at concerts and other public gatherings. At these events the bikes are removed from the interior of the trailer and can generate electrical output when pedaled. This power charges the same battery bank associated with the PV system and in turn the system together can power different loads at the event such as the sound system.

Power Access Port

Trailer

The MEOW is compatible for use with any vehicle with a ball hitch and brake light connection system.

Bikes

There are four 12V bikes currently located in the CCAT trailer. These bikes can be connected in series or in parallel electrically to increase voltage or current respectively.One of the bikes revived a new generator (need details of generator and the fabrication process of the bracket)

One of the four bikes

PV System

The MEOW has a 920 W PV system having four panels of 230 W each. The solar panels are connected to four 12 V, 100 AH, Absorbed Glass Mat (AGM)--Sealed Rechargeable Deep Cycle batteries that are solar specifically designed(Light Catcher Solar company). Batteries are in a series producing 48 V to turn on a Outback GVFX48 inverter that can operate in both off-grid and on-grid applications. The system also has a charge controller that has 150 V limit. Necessary breakers to protect each component from overload current (between the PV panels and charge controller, between the charge controller and batteries, and between the batteries and inverter) have installed.

Inverter

What does it do? It converts direct current (DC) from the batteries to alternating current (AC) that can be used in appliances and in the home

Charge Controller

A charge controller is used in the MEOW’s system to prevent overloading the batteries with charge or allowing the batteries to be drained too quickly.

Maintenance

The maintenance instructions for the trailer and PV system are shown here.

License

In order to keep in compliance with state law, the trailer should have its plate renewed every five years. The plate can be renewed at the following link: http://www.dmv.ca.gov/online/vrir/vr_top2.htm (Harper, 2010).

License plate, trailer lock and break lights

Tires

To keep the tires in good repair it is important the the tires pressure, tread, lugs, and bearings are all maintained. The following sections describe the maintenance required.

Tires on left side of MEOW
Tire Pressure

The pressure of the tires should be checked every 6 months and this pressure should be maintained at 30-60 psi. Keeping the pressure at the right level provides better fuel economy as well as maintaining the integrity of the tires (Harper, 2010).

Tire Tread

A tread gauge should be used to check for tread depth every 2 years. The tires should be replaced when the tread depth drops below 4/32”. Standard tread depth is 7/32”.

The tires should be rotated every two years by moving the back tires to the front diagonally and the front tires straight back. This rotation will help to maintain evenness.

If the trailer has not moved in the last two months it should be moved slightly to balance wear on the tread. At this point bulging and cracking should be checked for on the sides of the tires to verify that there is no risk of blowout (Harper, 2010).

Tire Lugs

The tire lug nuts should be checked for tightness before each use of the trailer. If they can be tightened by hand they are too loose (Harper, 2010).

Tire Bearings

The bearings on the trailers wheels should be checked every 6 months or whenever grinding metal is heard while the trailer is moving.

To maintain the bearings the E-Z lube cap should be removed and the cavity should be filled at least one third to one half full with lithium complex NLGI consistency #2 grease.

Every two years the bearings should be repacked. This includes removing each of the bearings and greasing each individually. During repacking, each bearing should be checked for wear and cleaned of debris. While working with the grease it is important the grease does not make contact with skin, eyes and clothing (Harper, 2010).

Trailer Brakes

In order to maintain brakes it is important that the switches, pads and lights all be maintained. The following sections discuss these procedures (Harper, 2010).

Battery Break and Breakaway Switch

For each trip the following five steps should be followed to inspect the battery brake and switch the instructions for which can be found in the How To section.

Break Pads

The brakes should be inspected once a year. the brakes are checked by removing tires and inspecting each of the mechanical parts as well as the brake pads. The pads should be replaced if there thickness is measured to be less than 4/32”. This task can be performed by a mechanic or trained. CCAT technician (Harper, 2010).

Break Lights and Turn Signals

For each trip the lights should be connected to the vehicle and checked. If one of the lights does not work confirm that the corresponding light on the vehicle works. If that is not the problem than the issue is with the connection between the trailer and the vehicle. Make sure that the connection is clean. If this does not solve the problem than check to make sure that the bulbs have not burnt out. As a last resort a mechanic or trained CCAT technician should investigate (Harper, 2010).

Locks

Powdered graphite can help to lubricate sticky locks. Grease and oil are actually counterproductive as they tend to attract debris that degrades the function of the lock. Graphite can be found at any local hardware store. The codes of the locks should be exchanged such that each of the three directors can remember the codes over there full directorship (Harper, 2010).

Hitch

The lever of the trailer hitch should be lubricated every 6 months. The connection should not move around at all when the lever is closed. If this occurs tighten the latch by wrenching tight the nut under the hitch. The hitch ball should be lubricated with WD-40, grease, hitch ball wax or beeswax. Extra lubricant should be wiped away (Harper, 2010).

Hitch Lock

Battery Vents

The battery vent is used to evacuate used hydrogen gas from the batteries during equalization. The vent should be cleared of debris that could clog the vent once every year (Harper, 2010).

Battery Vent

Fire Extinguisher

There currently is no fire extinguisher inside of the MEOW unit and one should be installed immediately. The extinguisher is maintained yearly by checking to make sure that it is fully charged according to the dial on the side and that there is no physical damage to it. If the dial is in the red zone than the extinguisher should be replaced (Harper, 2010).

General Inspection

Each of the bolts and screws on the trailer should be inspected before use. The racks should also be checked every time to make sure no rusting or corrosion has occurred. If corrosion is such that structural integrity is threatened, the racks for the panels should be replaced (Harper, 2010).

Bikes

The bikes in the trailer should be maintained just like any other bike. The chain should be checked for rust and lubricated once a year. Loose connections should also be checked for in relation to the generator. Before each use of the MEOW the bikes should be checked to make sure that they are producing a current. If not, the generator should be checked by a trained technician (Harper, 2010).

Solar Panels

MEOW Solar Panels

It is important to clean solar panels on a regular basis to get optimal performance. Usually dust and bird droppings prevent solar radiation to fall on solar cells and thereby reduce the power output of the solar panel. Since the MEOW is a mobile vehicle and is used for various purposes in different locations within the community, it is a good practice to inspect and clean the solar panels before every use.

Cleaning off the surface of the solar panels with warm water and dishwashing soap to remove any accumulation of dust is one of the most cost effective methods. When cleaning, remember to also clean the frame and backing of the solar panel. If the surface of the panel is hot due to outside ambient, it is recommended to cool it down before applying soap. The hot panels could cause soap residue to form on the panel that would inhibit the passage of light (Harper, 2010).

It is also advised to check open circuit voltage (Voc) and short circuit current (Isc) of the solar panel before every use of MEOW. These parameters are used to find out the state of degradation of each solar panel and to determine if further testing or maintenance is required on the panels. A solar panel that produces noticeably less power than the others in the array can act as a resistor rather than a power source, reducing the productivity of the entire array (Harper, 2010).


Solar Array Positioning

Positioning for max efficiency (Arcata Latitude is 41°) 41° according to Lonny Grafman 41° + 15° for max efficiency in the summer 41° - 15° for max efficiency in the winter

Junction Box

Junction Box

As humboldt county has relatively long rainy season, it is advisable to inspected junction box periodically to ensure that water is not collecting in the box. A maintenance person should look for degradation of the box itself or seal that could allow water into the junction box. If water is allowed to enter the junction box, the water could then enter the electronics located inside the trailer and cause electronic failure.

Rain

Make sure the doors are closed to keep out the rain The coverings for the inverter, charge controller, and batteries should be on or screwed in.


Battery and other electrical devices

MEOW Battery Bank

Batteries There are 4 deep cycle AGM Interstate batteries that are aligned in series Average total voltage is 48V- 52V when fully charged Around 40V is when the batteries are completely drained. Do NOT use the MEOW’s energy when the voltage is around 40V this will cause permanent damage to the batteries. Battery Testing The battery voltage should be checked about once every month to make sure that the batteries aren’t being over charged or completely drained Overcharged and drained are signs that the batteries need to be replaced.

Note: Do not leave the battery bank in a discharged state for any length of time, recharge as soon as possible.

Bike belt check

MEOW bike band alignment

Ensure gears turn properly and straight. Check belt, if cracking, broken or torn contact CCAT co-directors to replace belt. To replace belts remove front wheel bolts and slide it back, remove the belt from the generators and place it gently on the ground. Then slide new belt onto large wheel, tighten the bolts and slip belt around the generator pulley. Check / tighten loose bolts, then test for security and stability of the replacement.

Bicycle generators

Check if wiring from generators is properly secure


Schedule

Daily
  • Check state-of-charge reading on charge controller (~1.25 at full charge)
  • Inspect tire lugs
  • Test breaks, break switches and break battery
  • Check battery lights and turn signals
  • Check trailers bolts and PV racks for corrosion
  • Check that batteries are producing current
Monthly
  • Check battery terminals for corrosion, debris, or loose/exposed wires
  • Check Battery Voltage every month the following link is for a fill in sheet to use to check the battery voltage[1]
  • Move trailer several feet forward or backwards to balance tread wear (can be every other month)
Every 6 months
  • Cleaning of MEOW solar panel during rainy season
  • Inspection of junction box. Check junction box seal, box degradation and inspection of water inside
  • Check Tire Pressure
  • Check and clean bearings
  • Lubricate trailer hitch lever
Yearly
  • Check break battery health
  • Check break pads
  • Clear battery vent
  • Check fire extinguisher
  • Check bike chains for rust and electrical connections for looseness
Every 2 years
  • Check tire tread
  • Rotate Tires
  • Repack tire bearings
Every 5 years
  • Renew trailer license
  • Replace batteries

Instructions

Step by step process for maintenance and inspection of various components of CCAT MEOW are given below. These are based on the MEOW maintenance manual developed by the ENGR 535 class of 2010.

File:MEOW Panel.JPG
How to check open circuit voltage (Voc) and short circuit current (Isc) of the solar panel
Note: The readings should be taken as quickly as possible for minimizing the effect of the 
outside conditions and angle of the incoming sunlight. Ideally, readings will be taken on a 
day with either no cloud cover, or no moving clouds so that the available solar radiation 
stays constant (Harper,2010). A multi-meter, screwdriver, and ladder will be needed to measure 
Voc and Isc.  
File:CCAT MEOW Battery.jpg
How to conduct battery maintenance

Battery Testing

The battery voltage should be checked about once every month to make sure that the batteries aren’t being over charged or completely drained. Overcharged and drained symptoms indicate that the batteries need to be replaced.

Error in widget YouTube: Unable to load template 'wiki:YouTube'


How to measure battery voltage? First grab a multimeter. Set the multimeter to the setting with a V⎓ (this symbol ⎓ will be underneath the V on the multimeter) This setting is meant to measure ONLY direct current, which is the current batteries produce. Do not use this setting for measuring the current in the inverter. They use AC current. Then place the one prong on the bolt of one end of the battery and place the other prong on the other side of the corresponding battery. A voltage reading will appear on the multimeter. It doesn’t matter if it’s negative use the absolute value. Write down the voltage. Follow steps c-e for taking the voltage measurement of the rest of the batteries. The importance of this testing is to see the health of each individual battery. Any voltage below 12V means the battery is damaged and possibly in need of replacing.


File:Breakaway_Switch.JPG
How to Prepare the MEOW for a trip

Troubleshooting

This is only how to troubleshoot basic operations.

Problem Suggestion
Battery does not charge or battery meter does not showing reading Inspect PV terminals are properly attached. Charge controller is working and no loose or open wire in junction box
Battery meter showing partial charging of battery
MEOW voltage from the PV array

Inspect the battery state of charge (do not preform equalization). Use outside source to charge battery and see how battery preforms. If not preforming, possible have to purchase new batteries.

Outlet attached to the inverter isn't channeling a current to the extension cords that are used to power items.
MEOW reset breaker box tape instructions

First, hit reset on the outlet inside the MEOW then check again if it is still not working Next, check the voltage of the batteries. In our current system if the voltage is around 40V then the batteries are drained and the inverter will no longer pull energy from the batteries to prevent permanent damage to the batteries. Allow time for the solar panels to charge batteries up to at least 48V. Check the breakers and make sure they are aligned as they should be and that everything is connected

Solar inverter with red light sensors
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