The Javelin Technologies Blog

Gastle Engineering Services has won the Runner-up prize for the 2010 Javelin Green Design Contest.

10 kW Microfit Ground Mount Solar Panel System

Product Name: 10 kW Microfit Ground Mount Solar Panel System

Product Function: This solar panel system generates electricity from the sun therefore reducing the need for less “green” methods of power generation (i.e. coal and natural gas). This system requires a small area of land roughly 34′x40′ in size. Typical users of this system are farmers and people with small acreages. This system can also be used on commercial roof tops such as strip malls with a different mounting method.

How did SolidWorks help: Solidworks enabled me to design this system with a minimum of structure to support the wind and snow loads that this system will see. The simulation express allowed me to check individual members for strucural integrity.

Product Quality Improvement: Achieved a weight reduction of approximately 15%.

Design Cost Saving: There was a cost savings of $0.14/watt over the existing design.