A Forum run by Enthusiasts of MidNite Solar

General Category => General Discussion => Topic started by: Robin on November 01, 2017, 02:54:55 PM

Title: Homeles Shelter
Post by: Robin on November 01, 2017, 02:54:55 PM
Last winter we were doing a lot of testing of the upcoming SOB project. We will start shipping these in November 2017. Peter, one of our electrical engineers had to work outside in the cold and rain. He worked under our 20,000 watt ground mounted and home made solar array. To attempt to keep warm, Peter put up a blue tarp and hooked up a portable heater. It didn't work that well. One day I saw that he had put up a cardboard sign next to the blue tarp. It read "anything helps".
OK, I got the message. We started enclosing the underside of the solar array to keep the cold out. Well, we sort of got carried away. We now have a fully stocked engineering lab with 23,000 watts of PV, tons of grid tie inverters, battery based inverters and a few dozen different charge controllers along with battery banks. The part I like the best is the air conditioner, heater, fridge, microwave, couch, TV, stereo and coffee maker. There are work benches for electronic test equipment and such too.
I like it because it is hard for people to find me out there. I can actually get things done! The building I normally work out of doesn't have air conditioning, so the Homeless shelter is great on those hot summer days.
This "solar Lab" will be of great importance for testing the B17-3, B17-5, Rosie, Little Rosie, Andy's three inverters and Jim's three inverters. Oh yeah, we will also be testing two new charge controllers there also. One is called the Big Kid and the other is called the Little Kid.
Lots of projects. Peter is now spoiled. He doesn't like to work at his real desk anymore.
I have some early pictures of the Homeless shelter. It is much better outfitted today, but this will give you an idea of what we have to work in.
Title: Re: Homeles Shelter
Post by: Westbranch on November 01, 2017, 04:27:21 PM
Robin I notice that the SMA unit and a bunch of others have NO SPD's... 

I only see them on the Magnum and Outback units???  Are the rest just for show?
Title: Re: Homeles Shelter
Post by: Robin on November 01, 2017, 05:30:08 PM
The SMA probably does have SPD's, but they are out of view on the bottom of the E-Panel. You can only see the inverter on this picture.
The other E-Panels on the all are engineering prototypes. Engineers never wire things up correctly. Takes too much time. Since they already know our SPD's work, they probably just skipped this step. I will get Gordon to add them.
I am working on an E-Panel system for the Rosie and Big Kid. I think you all will like it. It sort of reminds me of a cross between Buck Rogers and Aliens!
Title: Re: Homeles Shelter
Post by: Highflyer on November 08, 2017, 04:18:57 PM
Robin,

Any chance there is a picture or two of Rosie and the Big Kid you could show us?

Can't wait for the system to become available.
Title: Re: Homeles Shelter
Post by: onanparts on November 08, 2017, 08:36:48 PM
Quote from: Highflyer on November 08, 2017, 04:18:57 PM
Robin,

Any chance there is a picture or two of Rosie and the Big Kid you could show us?

Can't wait for the system to become available.

No Big Kid pics but here is an early 3D printed prototype of the Willy/Rosie. Plus a couple homeless shelter pics including a few homeless engineers! :) Note the "portable laptop desk" on wheels. A true Homeless Engineer!
Title: Re: Homeles Shelter
Post by: Robin on November 09, 2017, 12:34:32 AM
Here is a start.
Title: Re: Homeles Shelter
Post by: Highflyer on November 09, 2017, 03:03:22 PM
Oh My and WOW doesn't do it justice.

I need more panels, and batteries!

Holy crap I can't wait.
Title: Re: Homeles Shelter
Post by: Robin on November 09, 2017, 11:28:29 PM
I was hoping that would be the response! This system is going to be very cool!
Title: Re: Homeles Shelter
Post by: russ_drinkwater on November 11, 2017, 03:14:54 PM
Looks sexy! ;D ;)
Title: Re: Homeles Shelter
Post by: harryn on December 14, 2017, 11:51:50 AM
Looks really interesting.

Anything that you can do to make it easy to install over size wires and 5/16th inch ring lugs on ALL wire connections would be much appreciated for my applications.

Thanks

Harry
Title: Re: Homeles Shelter
Post by: Robin on December 14, 2017, 07:52:49 PM
UL doesn't like forcing end customers to use large ring terminals. Customers typically don't have 10,000PSI crimping machines!
We will accommodate very large cables though.
The Rosie inverter has 8mm studs. That is about the same as 5/16". I like to use metric on user hardware because when it gets lost, you can get replacements anywhere in the world.
The Big Kid will accept at least 2AWG wires.
Title: Re: Homeles Shelter
Post by: Westbranch on December 14, 2017, 10:52:41 PM
Has Santa been using the Shelter to store any NEW gifties we are unaware of so far??

Sure would be nice to jump for joy at the unwrapping of a New MidNite Riveter...

We've all been good this well at least I have this year...

Not so sure about Nigel... he's having too much fun with his manlift...
Title: Re: Homeles Shelter
Post by: Robin on December 15, 2017, 12:10:13 AM
There are new things in the homeless shelter for sure. The problem they have to work first. Then we can try to blow them up. Won't be long now.
Title: Re: Homeles Shelter
Post by: CDN-VT on December 15, 2017, 01:36:42 AM
Quote from: Westbranch on December 14, 2017, 10:52:41 PM


We've all been good this well at least I have this year...

Not so sure about Nigel... he's having too much fun with his manlift...

My Wife endorsed me on the purchase for the reason if I fall & damage me , Were both done for .
I use this also to go up 65' and as I go up I remove the limbs for the chipper or , if there larger than 3" branches , there cut @18" for the wood stove & then I can tie a 2" double braided line to the mast & use the tractor or excavator to make sure the 250'-300' tree go's the correct way , then onto the mill for toothpicks and larger .

VT
Title: Re: Homeles Shelter
Post by: Westbranch on December 15, 2017, 11:26:07 PM
I like your wife already ;D....Have to get her to talk to mine 8)...  Oh the tools I need!

That looks like a standing seam roof(?).... Are those the S-5 clamps?
can you explain your process of mounting the panels as I see they have a bolt/pin (?) attached to keep it from slipping off the lift wires, and that one has been wired in, or is that boogie board upside down?
Any snow down there yet? Had to blade off  the road 2 weeks ago and then it dropped ~ 10 inches but it has melted in, just enough to cause trouble the next trip if we get anymore...  dang cluody days, will have to boost them next visit if not >90%
ej
Title: Re: Homeles Shelter
Post by: CDN-VT on December 16, 2017, 12:47:58 AM
Yes the roof was duroid 3 years old .
I rolled out the roof last year & got ready for the install .
Removed the old & stored it as in bundles as bought , lost 2% . roof ridge saved .

New roof installed this fall . All mounting is MADE here due to the bought SS brackets KILL the roof  ..
I'll post up the pix of the system & the hardware drilled & screwed into the trusses , SO each seam is on top of  a ridge of a truss .

I get winds of 100-140 kms , I have built all my mounting's .. Many for metal roofs cause leaks & damage the roof .

Just did a huge barn that had very steep . man-Lift was the way .

Now the panel is on a hook lift system till up & then transfers to a bolt down & hooked in .
All fittings are SS316 Nyloc & SDG is used on all connections

Im hopping the pix shot will house a auto washer system  ..

VT
Title: Re: Homeles Shelter
Post by: WizBandit on December 16, 2017, 08:03:07 PM
Just curious, what did you have to give for the lift?

Quote from: CDN-VT on December 15, 2017, 01:36:42 AM
Quote from: Westbranch on December 14, 2017, 10:52:41 PM


We've all been good this well at least I have this year...

Not so sure about Nigel... he's having too much fun with his manlift...

My Wife endorsed me on the purchase for the reason if I fall & damage me , Were both done for .
I use this also to go up 65' and as I go up I remove the limbs for the chipper or , if there larger than 3" branches , there cut @18" for the wood stove & then I can tie a 2" double braided line to the mast & use the tractor or excavator to make sure the 250'-300' tree go's the correct way , then onto the mill for toothpicks and larger .

VT
Title: Re: Homeles Shelter
Post by: CDN-VT on December 16, 2017, 09:14:42 PM
Give the Wife ?
We don't work our partnership like that . She can do / or buy whatever if it will work for her or us .
Buy useless stuff she will not Do !, but When I saw a honda rear rototiller FR800 in the craiglist  last year fall  ,,I showed it to her & she says we'll buy it for our Xmas gifts / or something .

Now the MD530  (new machine now MD-600N ) was a push .

VT
Title: Re: Homeles Shelter
Post by: WizBandit on December 18, 2017, 10:16:33 AM
 :o No, what did you have to pay for it, I just bought the same lift with 105 hrs on it, 2014 like new.
$17k

Quote from: CDN-VT on December 16, 2017, 09:14:42 PM
Give the Wife ?
Title: Re: Homeles Shelter
Post by: CDN-VT on December 18, 2017, 09:27:53 PM
Duh !!

I'm a idiot somedayz .
I had a good look at your posed PIX
Mine has surge brakes & to push it on with a tractor , the hitch needs to be put into working mode .

VT
Title: Re: Homeles Shelter
Post by: onanparts on January 21, 2018, 06:24:48 PM
Stopped by Midnite yesterday to see what was going on. Discovered boB and Robin have been so busy with all the new projects, Inverters included, that they both have not been to the barber shop in some time! Actually boB does have a new "Hair Stylist" :)

They were taking a very rare break to see who was the faster picker on their Dad's guitar. Looks like Robin wins! Fast hands for sure! :)
Title: Re: Homeles Shelter
Post by: harryn on January 26, 2018, 12:33:15 PM
Quote from: Robin on December 14, 2017, 07:52:49 PM
UL doesn't like forcing end customers to use large ring terminals. Customers typically don't have 10,000PSI crimping machines!
We will accommodate very large cables though.
The Rosie inverter has 8mm studs. That is about the same as 5/16". I like to use metric on user hardware because when it gets lost, you can get replacements anywhere in the world.
The Big Kid will accept at least 2AWG wires.

Thank you.  8mm is the standard size we use when possible and while UL might not be as excited about ring terminals, the marine industry loves them.  Much appreciated.
Title: Re: Homeles Shelter
Post by: unyalli on February 10, 2018, 02:12:54 PM
Quote from: Robin on December 14, 2017, 07:52:49 PM
The Big Kid will accept at least 2AWG wires.

Big Kid?? What's a Big Kid?

- Jeff
Title: Re: Homeles Shelter
Post by: Robin on March 10, 2018, 01:42:26 AM
The Big Kid name has changed to the Barcelona. There is a story behind that name.
The Barcelona is a stand alone charge controller. It is very powerful and very high voltage. Let's wait to see just how much power Mario can get out of it.
Title: Re: Homeles Shelter
Post by: Highflyer on March 10, 2018, 11:09:31 AM
Robin,

Is there any chance we could see a preview pic of the Barcelona?

Any timelines yet for any of the new stuff?  Will Rosie, and Barcelona have an E-panel setup?

Man I can't wait for all this goodness to be loosed!

Thanks
Title: Re: Homeles Shelter
Post by: Robin on March 10, 2018, 11:38:20 AM
I will ask Rob Ruth to post some pictures.
Title: Re: Homeles Shelter
Post by: Ron Swanson on March 10, 2018, 12:23:12 PM
Quote from: Robin on March 10, 2018, 01:42:26 AM
The Big Kid name has changed to the Barcelona. There is a story behind that name.
The Barcelona is a stand alone charge controller. It is very powerful and very high voltage. Let's wait to see just how much power Mario can get out of it.

Funny, just yesterday I was thinking we really need a 600V or even 1000V string charge controller from you guys.

Is that what the Barcelona will be?
Title: Re: Homeles Shelter
Post by: Robin on March 10, 2018, 04:14:23 PM
The Barcelona is indeed a 600V charge controller. We will see just how much output current it will be rated at? We expect 100 amps plus.
The picture is of a Rosie and Barcelona on a dual door E-Panel. The four meters are just cuz. They can all be doing something different and will be connected via Canbus. I would appreciate any ideas on what you all would like these meters to be telling you. We haven't really thought about it much. It can always be voltage and current related stuff, but we could also throw in a fuel gauge for one of them?
Let us know what you would like to see.
Title: Re: Homeles Shelter
Post by: Robin on March 10, 2018, 04:22:18 PM
Oops, the last picture actually showed a Rosie and a Little Rosie on the E-Panel. The Little Rosie is expected to be about 2000 watts of inverter/charger. Attached here is a picture of the Barcelona. The only difference physically is the end piece where the battery connects or conduit in the case of the Barcelona. All the parts of the enclosure are die cast aluminum and extruded aluminum heatsink. These things will be very rugged!
Title: Re: Homeles Shelter
Post by: Westbranch on March 10, 2018, 07:57:43 PM
Hi Robin, I was thinking along the line of  Watts  Out (demand) or % of Capacity and Volts/Frequency for the Little Sister, Analog Dials of course!

Stackable or built in for NA 240V motors (water/well pumps)?

Looking good.
Title: Re: Homeles Shelter
Post by: Robin on March 10, 2018, 08:31:26 PM
The Barcelona should be capable of 7000 watts if it goes as planned. There are plenty of hurdles to overcome, but Mario is working on it as we speak. The transistors required to make this work are not even available yet. We will be testing at reduced capacity.
The Little Rosie will be 120/240VAC. It should be able to operate at 50 or 60Hz. The new larger display (MNGP2) has built in blue tooth. All new products will connect to the internet via our upcoming comm box.
Title: Re: Homeles Shelter
Post by: Highflyer on March 10, 2018, 10:34:56 PM
I would like to see SOC, percent of capability.  amps (in/out), volts.

Thanks for the pics!  Can't wait to hear about the Beta program!

Title: Re: Homeles Shelter
Post by: Ron Swanson on March 10, 2018, 11:18:07 PM
We really want the conduit holes/wire area to be much bigger.  The ones on Classics are way too cramped.

I'm sure they will be bigger but we'd like to see them bigger proportionally as well.
Title: Re: Homeles Shelter
Post by: mike90045 on March 11, 2018, 03:25:40 AM
That 100A controller really needs to take #2 or larger wire, the type of "griper" or "saddle" terminal, not a setscrew that mashes the snot out of the wires.
my opinion
Title: Re: Homeles Shelter
Post by: Ron Swanson on March 11, 2018, 10:35:44 AM
Quote from: mike90045 on March 11, 2018, 03:25:40 AM
That 100A controller really needs to take #2 or larger wire, the type of "griper" or "saddle" terminal, not a setscrew that mashes the snot out of the wires.
my opinion

I'm not sure I agree with that statement, I like simple, stupid terminals.

Title: Re: Homeles Shelter
Post by: unyalli on March 11, 2018, 10:38:26 AM
Quote from: mike90045 on March 11, 2018, 03:25:40 AM
That 100A controller really needs to take #2 or larger wire, the type of "griper" or "saddle" terminal, not a setscrew that mashes the snot out of the wires.
my opinion

X2

- Jeff
Title: Re: Homeles Shelter
Post by: Westbranch on March 11, 2018, 01:43:50 PM
Robin, re blue tooth, can there be the ability to have a smart  and/or  a dumb remote to monitor from the kitchen or ?

X 3 for bigger  100A  cable connectors.....  BOLT-Up type on an outer surface, like Telcom batteries use?
Title: Re: Homeles Shelter
Post by: Robin on March 11, 2018, 03:28:59 PM
Well, let's try this again. The last time the files were too large and this thing dropped everything. Grrrrr.
OK, the MNGP2 is part of the new Canbus system. You can have as many devices on the system as you like up to some ridiculous number.
I like one of the meters being a fuel gauge. No buttons to push. Of course you can always go to the MNGP2 and push buttons to get a higher resolution picture of the SOC. I would think the MNGP2 would also tell you the SOC if going to that screen? Then again you can program the MNGP2 to tell you at regular intervals all the battery voltage and SOC information. Once a minute if you want. The MNGP2 also has a feature you will like. We call it the radio button. Go to the screen you want to frequent, then push the radio button. That just programmed the button to always take you to that spot with just one button push. There is only one radio button on each MNGP2, so choose wisely. It is easy to change what it does just like a real radio too.
Did you all know we have been shipping voice for a couple of months now? We put it in the Rick mode (off) as the default, so it is possible nobody knows about this feature yet. Spanish is coming very soon, then French.
Conduit and wire size. Take a look at the pictures attached. You can see that there are two 1" conduit openings that go straight into the terminal block. No bending. The third is for aux, voltage sense, bat temp sense, Canbus etc.
The green terminal block shown is only good for 115 amps. That is as high as UL would approve it for. All the spec sheets lead one to believe it is 125 amps. Well, that is only for CE. Rats! We may be more powerful than 115 amps. The third picture is of the relay board in the B17. You will see a couple of PCB mount terminals that accept 2/0 wire. We will have to deal with the 600V problem and spacings required for that, but if we go over 115 amps, we will have little choice. This PCB terminal block has a set screw to mess up all your handywork, but the 115 amp block have an elevator clamp that doesn't mess things up. Personally I am hoping for messing up the wire strands.
Title: Re: Homeles Shelter
Post by: CDN-VT on March 11, 2018, 10:46:40 PM
Robin
ALWAYS post your thoughts & type , once that is done then edit to add  pix.
I have been Grrrrrrrrrrrrr also , and then to make sure because my fingers do NOT keep up to my thoughts ""I should "" copy my type in case on enter  / post / submit , its lost & hrs of time wasting .

VT \Nig`
Title: Re: Homeles Shelter
Post by: onanparts on March 19, 2018, 07:51:19 PM
Homeless shelter now has High End Classic Audio Gear! The one on the left sports a "wire recorder" yee haw!