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
Tags
The author marked this model as their own original creation.