DOI: https://doi.org/10.15368/theses.2011.73
Available at: https://digitalcommons.calpoly.edu/theses/514
Date of Award
6-2011
Degree Name
MS in Electrical Engineering
Department/Program
Electrical Engineering
Advisor
Vladimir Prodanov
Abstract
The technological advances made in the photovoltaic industry have led to a vast exploration of self-sustaining systems. As the consumer demand for electricity rises from increasing population and development of existing technologies, new practices in system designs are required to relieve the impact on the electrical grid.
This thesis delves into a developing concept of using photovoltaic modules for roadway lighting, with emphasis on establishing the fundamental design for a “spot-lighting” luminaire. By effectively extinguishing various sections of the luminaire in the absence of pedestrian trafficking, the proposed design and implementation will minimize the prolonged costs, as well as the overall power consumption. Furthermore, as the first stage in development, this thesis includes justifications for design and part selection, while complying with numerous requirements set forth by the City of Los Angeles and in accordance with regulations established by the Illuminating Engineering Society of North America (IESNA). To accomplish these goals, copious amounts of performance tests and simulations, both before and after system implementation, will characterize the overall feasibility of the stand-alone lighting application.