Name of Sponsoring Organization: University of South Florida (EE)
Sponsor Point of Contact (name): Chris Ferekides
Email Address:
Name of Technical Mentor (i.e. Subject Matter Expert): Chris Ferekides
TM Email Address:
Project Title: Optical Characterization Instrument
Required EE Area(s) of Expertise: Programming; device physics; microprocessors; electronics
Brief Project Description: The device will measure the current-voltage characteristics of a solar cell under user specified illumination conditions. The tool must have (1) a completely dark housing for mounting the solar cell, (2) a selectable filter wheel, (3) white light source, (4) motors for movement of wheel etc., (5) power supply with adjustable/controllable output to provide power to light source, (6) measurement instrumentation for the collection of data, (7) a user interface for entering initial measurement requirements, (8) all electrical probes, connectors etc necessary to measure the solar cell.
Major system products expected from this project: The deliverable will be an instrument capable of performing monochromatic current-voltage measurements under user specified conditions, collect and process data, and provide tabulated as well as graphical output results.
Parts of the project that “Engineering Design” is expected (e.g., mathematical calculations and/or verification simulations):
The level of support (Time: technical guidance, materials, computing, financial, etc.) for the project. If no financial support will be provided, please offer an estimate of the Materials Cost: Technical guidance Required materials and supplies.