PROJECT OBSTACLES
PROBLEM
How do we build an affordable heat sink that can be used in Ghana's hot and humid environment?
How do we keep the device well insulated enough for direct-solar power use? (Meaning, the device will only be actively cooling during daylight hours when there is enough energy supplied through the panels.)
HOW WE WILL CONFRONT THE PROBLEM
We will need to test it with infrequent electricity and in a similar environment to get honest results. From our basic design (outlined below) we will try to attach other simple modifications such as a fan or further insulation to achieve freezing temperatures.
DECISION MATRIX
Insulation
On a scale of 1-5, 1 being the worst, 5 being the best.
Wool is the best insulator for the prototype.
DECISION MATRIX
Container
On a scale of 1-5, 1 being the worst, 5 being the best.
Aluminum is the best material to build the prototype out of.
DECISION MATRIX
Heat Sink
On a scale of 1-5, 1 being the worst, 5 being the best.
Homemade "CPU" type cooler (plated metal) with convective cooling is the best heat sink for the prototype.
OTHER PROBLEMS
SCALING OF PROTOTYPE WAS TOO LARGE
NOT ASKING FOR MORE GUIDANCE
LITTLE TO NO KNOWLEDGE ON THE TECHNICAL FEATURES OF THE PROJECT
TO THE FUTURE SOLAR ICE GROUPS
Build a small “fridge” component during the first few weeks of the quarter. Do a decision matrices on which materials to use but focus on the electrical component later. It’s the manufacturing of the parts that really took up a lot of time. By building a small “fridge” first, the group will be closer to their first prototype.
Using solar power to make ice is a challenging task for students without copious technical knowledge. Try thinking of a different group that could use an inexpensive, efficient, cooler or fridge that can keep things cold but not necessarily make ice.
IMPROVEMENTS
Add more TEC Plates if that is the mechanism you want to keep using.
Create a larger heatsink to pull the heat away from the peltier device.
Try running water underneath the heatsink to act as an additional source.
More precise measurements in the design process to minimize error during implementation.
Research other technologies that can freeze water.