15 replies to this topic

[ckent323]

For folks frequently carrying kayaks, bikes, cargo boxes, etc on the roof of the camper that will shade solar panels.

Have you considered hanging panels from the sides of the camper?   I can envision a panel hanging off each side that has a hinge and support arms to allow it to fold up into a flat "awning" roof when the camper is parked.

While underway the panel(s) would need to be latched down so they don't tilt up like wings and sure they won't get maximum power when the rig is underway but maybe better than under things shading it on the roof.

Just a thought.

 

;-)

Edited by ckent323, 09 April 2021 - 01:48 AM.

[Vic Harder]

Interesting idea!  It would make angling them easier too.  Hmmmm.  If you bumped into them on a narrow trail though... ouch!

Edited by Vic Harder, 06 April 2021 - 06:27 PM.

[rando]

Wouldn't they also have a 50/50 chance of being in the shade of the popped top?  Or were you thinking of hanging them from the side of the roof?

 

Maybe the hood is a better option:

https://www.lensunso...le-solar-panel/

[Vic Harder]

I was thinking roof.

[ckent323]

The concept is hanging the panels from the edges of the roof.  Could be a bracket with hinge attachment for the panel attached to the Yakima tracks or equivalent.

Similer to our boat, one side would be partially shaded much of the time and each side would need its own solar controller to mitigate the issue  caused by one shaded panel.

The hood might be too hot, particularly for semi rigid panels (the bottom of solar panels get pretty hot hence the need for air gap).  

Panels are pretty thin and I think would be inside the envelope of a camper having jack brackets.  Certainly inside the truck envelope including side mirrors.

If navigating a tight trail with vegetation I can imaging fabric or even semi rigid protective covers that could be installerd or removed to mitigate sratching issues.

;-)

Craig

Edited by ckent323, 06 April 2021 - 08:03 PM.

[bsharp007]

I don't think you need more than 200 watts for the things you listed in reality.  In addition to what you listed as your load I also have the heater which can use a fair amount of amps but I have never not been fully charged going into evening. I added a portable 100 watt panel if I ever needed additional power and haven't had to use it thus far.  I

Edited by bsharp007, 09 April 2021 - 12:13 AM.