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The roof consists of 4, 305 watt LG panels. The 1,220 Watt array pivots in the front of the van. I can access the space above from below through the van’s moon roof. Actuators (one on each side) tilt the array up to a maximum of about 40°, adjustable for maximizing output. I'll have the camper top open as the sun sets, getting kids ready for bed. With an 180° spin of the vehicle, I'll be able to position the array to catch the morning sun. At full tilt I have 40 degrees of angle allowing me to be directly facing the sun for far more than the six hours stationary panels can attain.  Being able to move the van ensures that I can always get the most exposure.  I needed to use 4 Drok Dc Dc boost converters to boost each panel voltage from 40 Voc to 55 Voc.  These converters are then wired in series for around 220 Voc.  The array can theoretically put out 8 amps total at 150 volts into the battery.   I've seen 8 amps max at 150 volts, but 6-7 consistently.

The panels sit on two rails of 3 inch aluminum angle running the length of the array.  The panels are sealed together with silicone sealant providing a solid leak proof roof that can also flex a little and still seal.

The panels lift with two 300lb linear power screw actuators.  The motors can each pull 6 amps and push 300lbs.  I have them together fused at 7.5 amps.  The motors are only working about half as hard as they need to.


The panels put out an actual 6-7 amps with the inefficiency of the controllers I'm using. Parked by my house in Ashland, Oregon I get about 25 amp hours in a day...15-20 miles of city driving.  If I work it, tracking all day and such I will get approximately 50 amp hours out of my required 80.  Of course the driving conditions determine how far that gets me....see range.

The vehicle was designed for a one day full charge.