Solar Panel holder for outdoor case on mast mount

Package solution to mount a solar panel to a cheap outdoor enclosure on a mast.
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updated April 16, 2024

Description

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I created this model to attach a solar panel to my outdoor Meshtastic router.

 

Build materials:

  • Cheap outdoor enclosure 120x90x70mm
  • RAK Green Power Module
  • RAK19007
  • RAK4631
  • Big ty-wraps for the mast mount
  • 12v solar panel - not sure about the minium wattage, I ordered this one to try (12V 4.2W)
    (edit the F360 file for the solar panel size you pick)
  • Battery (can be 18650 or something else)

The mast mount is dimensioned for a scaffolding pipe (48.3mm).

Build tips:

  • Be sure to use some kind of sealant/adhesive to attach the solarpanel, as these cheap solar panels won't survive if you leave the back exposed to the elements. Same goes for attaching it to the housing; degrease and use some sandpaper to rough up the surface and get a good bond.
  • I incorporated holes to use with heat-set inserts to hold the whole thing in place in conjuction with the adhesive.
  • I combined this with a 12v solar panel and the RAK green power module. 
  • The RAK Green Power module has a minimum input voltage of 5.3 V for a startup, that is why I use a 12v solar panel. Don't connect a 12v solar panel directly to the RAK19007. This combination should work even in clouded skies.
  • Get some sturdy nylon (black) ty-wraps, white ones don't hold up in the sun.
  • Don't drill the (antenna/wire grommet) holes too close to the bottom, it will interfere with the grid panel on the inside.
  • Use ABS or ASA or something else that holds up in outdoor/sunshine conditions

The solar panel size is parametric in Fusion360, it should just adapt to any solar panel size you enter.

 

Please ignore my ugly caulking work in the pictures ;-)

 

History:

Version 2024.04.03: Added more space behind the solar panel for wires

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Model origin

The author marked this model as their own original creation.

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