Parallel solar charger

thingiverse

The Solar Charger Module is engineered for efficient battery charging of standard lead batteries.\r\nThis device integrates a solar charger, a distributor capable of supporting up to three batteries in parallel, and a convenient OEM connector allowing easy access to the batteries. It's specifically designed for use with Phoenix Contact connectors that are installed on board Bavaria Cruiser yachts along with the Cristec CPS3 OEM charger. This connector is particularly convenient as it enables charging all onboard batteries through a single plug. However, finding this connector can be challenging, and I've encountered difficulties sourcing it from retailers such as Conrad and Reichelt, as well as directly from the manufacturer. The minimum purchase quantity required is 50 units, prompting me to design an alternative solution.\r\n\r\nThis charger incorporates electronic components (Schottky diodes and fuses) to safeguard and balance the batteries. The diodes prevent overcharging by blocking current flow between batteries and ensure that the battery with the lowest charge is always prioritized for charging first. This setup allows efficient conservation charging of all batteries using a single small solar panel, which can be as low as 15 watts.\r\n\r\nA detailed description of this project can be found on my website: http://www.oe1cgs.at/ladeverteiler-fuer-solar-erhaltungsladung/\r\n\r\nIn addition to the printed components and a basic PWM solar charger, you'll need the following items (bill of materials):\r\n- 4mm diameter brass rod, 140 mm long\r\n- 4 M4 nuts to be glued into the connector\r\n- 2 M3 nuts to be glued into the connector\r\n- 4 screws, M4 x 10 mm with flat head\r\n- 4 self-tapping screws, 3x12 mm\r\n- 4 self-tapping screws, 3x6 mm