final work placement report

Work Placement Industrial Report

Nanotechnology Research Group

Waterford Institute of Technology

Name: Lee Siang Wei

Year 3 Semester 2

Academic Year 2014/15

Department of Engineering Technology

School of Engineering

Waterford Institute of Technology,

Ireland.

Student Industrial Placement-WIT BEng (Hons) Electronic Engineering – 2014/15

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Declaration

“The report submitted herewith is a result of my own works. All information that has been

obtained from other sources had been fully acknowledged. I understand that plagiarism

constitutes a breach of Institute rules and regulations and would be subjected to disciplinary

actions.”

Signature

-----------------------

Lee Siang Wei

Date:


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Acknowledgement

Firstly, I would like to thank my industrial supervisor who is also Principal Investigator of

Nanotechnology Research Group, Dr. Joseph O'Mahony for his positive attitude showed to

my work and supervision that truly helps the progression and smoothness of this internship

program. The co-operation is much indeed appreciated.

Secondly, I also like to thank to these people below:

Yang Dong (Kevin)

Postgraduate Researcher at Nanotechnology Research Group

Development Engineer at Waterford Institute of Technology

Shi Bo Cai (Cian)

Development Scientist at Waterford Institute of Technology

Part-Time Assistant Lecturer at Waterford Institute of Technology

for extending their friendship towards me and their guidance and knowledge, skill and for

encouraging me through this practical training since the first day I am in Nanotechnology

Research Group, then making a pleasure-training environment in the Nanotechnology

Workshops. With their all guiding and helping this report would be a reality.

Last but not least, I would like to express my heartfelt gratitude to my family members for

their support, concern and love. A paper is not enough for me to express the support and

guidance I received from them almost for all the work I did there


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Table of contents

Declaration................................................................................................................................i

Acknowledgement....................................................................................................................ii

Chapter 1: Introduction.............................................................................................1-11

1.1 : Objectives

1.2 : Position and Job Responsibilities during Work Placement

1.3 : Work Placement Organisation

1.3.1 WIN-IPT Profile

1.3.2 WIN-IPT Staff Person, Academic Partners and Industrial

Partners

1.3.2.1 Staff Person

1.3.2.2 Academic Partner

1.3.3 WIN-IPT Working Projects

Chapter 2: Projects, Tasks and Activities...............................................................12-41

2.1 : Weekly Tasks and Activities Description

2.2 : Programming Work

2.2.1 Description of coding of Solar Monitoring System

2.2.2 User Guide for Solar Monitoring System

2.3 : Office Work

2.3.1 Office work for WIT Weather Station

Chapter 3: Learning Outcomes………………………………………………..…42-43

Chapter 4: Conclusion..................................................................................................44

References...................................................................................................................... ......45-46

Appendices.............................................................................................................................47


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Chapter 1: Introduction

As one of the student of Engineering, we should proud that what have we have

study. This is because nowadays Engineering is one of the toughest courses in most

study road. That‘s why Accreditation of Engineering and Technology (ABET) define

it as, ―the profession in which knowledge of the mathematical and natural sciences

gained by study, experience and practice is applied with judgment to develop ways to

utilize, economically, the material and forces of nature for the benefit of mankind‖.

It is compulsory that all the Engineering students no matter him or her who

study in any college or university must undergo at least one time of work placement,

including School of Engineering, Waterford Institute of Technology. Work placement

in industry was introduced on the awareness that student can do their practical work

well with applying of Engineering theoretical knowledge gained during lecture. It is a

great opportunity provided to student to comprehend and appreciate real-life working

experience.

In this report, it describes the activities carried out during a 15-week, full-time

work placement at the Nanotechnology Research Group of Waterford Institute of

Technology. The document contains information about the organization and the

responsibilities performed throughout the period from 9 February until 5 June 2015.

The first part of the report offers an overview of the organization, followed by the

working tasks initially agreed upon with the Nanotechnology Group. Hence, it

continues to describe in some detail the most relevant projects carried out and their

respective analysis. Finally, the report ends with a few learning outcomes and

conclusions from this work placement.

At the beginning of the internship I formulated several learning goals, which I

wanted to achieve:

to see what is like to work in a professional environment;

to see if this kind of work is a possibility for my future career;

to use my gained skills and knowledge and see what skills and knowledge I

still need to work in a professional environment;

to get fieldwork experience/collect data in an environment unknown for me;


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to get experience in working in another country/with persons from another

culture;

to enhance my interpersonal communication skills;

1.1 Objectives

Work placement provided:

To prepare students for employment at the conclusion of their studies by

providing an opportunity to relate academic and practical aspects of their work.

To acquaint students with first-hand knowledge of the various aspects of work as

they really are in the industry.

To provide students with the opportunity to establish contact with the profession

of their choice, hoping that this may lead to employment after their graduation.

To provide the industry an opportunity to assess in advance performance of its

potential employees.

1.2 Position and Job Responsibilities during Work Placement

During 15 weeks at here, I had been work as a research student in the group of

Nanotechnology Research Department of Waterford Institute of Technology. As a

research student, the scope of work is to complete programming work and

troubleshoot the code of incomplete Solar Monitoring System. Solar Monitoring

System is a system that generates final result of solar energy data, for examples daily

yield, daily irradiance, specific yield and performance ratio by inserting some of the

specific data into the system. These data are very valuable as we need them in order to

carry out a direct comparison between the region of Waterford, Ireland and Bangor,

Wales. At the same time, data collected from existing solar electricity generating sites

in both Ireland and Wales will also be gathered and compared in order to realistically

assess the potential for solar power in the cross-border region.

In this system, it contains a lot of debugging errors when the system is running.

Hence, I have to interpret and investigate the former error coding in order to find out

where is the actual location of them located. During the discovery of the error coding,


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a modification and changes on the coding is indeed to keep the system running free of

errors even also improve the system. This process has to be tested repeatedly as when

an error exists at certain part of the code, it might not work well in the next coming

codes. Therefore, every time I have to examine the codes and test debug run of the

system after modifying the codes. After the completion of coding on this system, I

have to test the system whether it fully functioning or not by browsing the specific

data and then make a comparison on outcome data with previous data.

Furthermore, I have to analyse and organise all the solar monitoring data by

using the new-created system. As I early mentioned, these data are using to make a

comparison between 2 regions, therefore I need to make a performance analysis of

Waterford Weather Station for both the year 2014 and 2015. Inside performance

analysis, it contains a monthly summary on Solar Irradiance, System Yield, Specific

Yield, Performance Ratio and soon on. Moreover, graphical and schematic diagrams

for monthly and annual weather station data were also prepared to support the data

and provide a visual presentation of the data. These data will have been updated and

can be copied into the website as required. At last, I got to make another copy of

performance analysis for WIN-IPT in order to assimilate the format of the Weather

Station Data of Waterford with Weather Station Data of Bangor. This is because

WIN-IPT will need both of these data to develop a number of portable Solar Energy

Monitoring stations and carryout a direct comparison between the two regions.

I‘m feel honoured that can work with this group that offered me to learn lots of

programing skills, knowledge, and experiences on computer system and also the area

of Photovoltaic (PV) technologies. Furthermore, I also had been trained to be

a) Instil the qualities of integrity, responsibility and self-confident.

b) Instil spirit of teamwork and good relationship between students and workers..

c) Expose to actual working environment.


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1.3 Work Placement Organisation

1.3.1 WIN-IPT Profile

WIN-IPT (stands for The Wales Ireland Network for Innovative Photovoltaic

Technologies) is an industry-driven initiative, designed to improve modernisation and

develop business opportunities for small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs)

working in the area of Photovoltaic (PV) technologies. The PV sector is growing

rapidly, with annual growth rates exceeding 25% seen in the EU. Yet, with weak

R&D Infrastructure bases, the PV market is 1/200th of the EU average in Ireland and

1/20th in Wales. The development of a network of expertise to provide research-

informed knowledge, in addition to laboratory and manufacturing support, is required

to bring the cross-border PV market into line with EU norms.

Therefore, WIN-IPT will create an inter-regional (West Wales and South-East

Ireland) centre of PV expertise through knowledge transfer between higher education

research institutes, industry and local authorities. They are willing to provide direct

R&D assistance and consultancy services to SMEs in the PV sector. Specifically,

WIN-IPT will deliver direct R&D support to develop:

• Self-powered wireless sensors for building management and control

functions

• Self-powered lighting and display technologies for building navigation

• Low-cost printable photovoltaic device manufacturing processes

• Next generation Solar Cell technologies – Organic Photovoltaic (OPV)

In addition the network will monitor the performance of existing PV

electricity generators and investigate the potential for further exploitation of solar

energy in the cross-border region. WIN-IPT actions will result in a better informed

industry, with greater confidence for investing in PV and low carbon technologies.

Well, this 3-year initiative (2012–2014) is part-funded by the European Regional

Development Fund (ERDF), through the Ireland Wales Programme (INTERREG 4A).


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1.3.2 WIN-IPT Staff Person, Academic Partners and Industrial Partners

There are 3 different academic organisation s from different country included in

various kind projects of WIN-IPT: Waterford Institute of Technology from Ireland,

Swansea University from United Kingdom, and lastly was Bangor University from

Wales. Below were the detail of staff and description of them:

1.3.2.1 Staff Person

a) Waterford Institute of Technology (WIT), Ireland

Brian Murphy

Joseph O‘Mahony

Dong Yang (Kevin)

Yiyang Sun (Bill)

Daniel Tiemann

Mandy O‘Neill

Ken Deevy

Eleanor Owens

Panagiotis Manesiotis

Mervin Doyle

Colm Tynan

Derek Sinnott

Stephen Norton

b) Swansea University, UK

David T. Gethin

Tatyana V. Korochkina

Tim Claypole

c) Bangor University

Jeff Kettle

James Wang

Eva Campo

Xianfeng Chen


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1.3.2.2 Academic Partner

a) Waterford Institute of Technology, Waterford City, Ireland

School of Engineering

The School is comprised of the departments of Architecture, Construction & Civil

Engineering, Engineering Technology, and Trade Studies. It provides professionally

accredited flexible pathways for lifelong learning in a variety of engineering,

architecture and built environment disciplines. It includes three Departments and is

home to a broad range of education courses and research programmes from Higher

Certificate to Doctorate at Levels 6-10 on the Irish National Framework of

Qualifications.

Besides, the students increasingly work in interdisciplinary teams to help solve real

world problems to gaining specialist individual knowledge and skills. Most of the

degree programmes also include an Industrial Placement semester in Ireland or

overseas. The innovative research activities are typically carried out in partnership

with local, national and international companies, organisations and communities.

Pharmaceutical & Molecular Biotechnology Research Centre (PMBRC)

The Pharmaceutical and Molecular Biotechnology Research Centre (PMBRC) is an

applied research centre which aims to support the sustainable growth of the

pharmaceutical and healthcare industry in the south east of Ireland. Situated in the

heart of the region on the WIT campus, the centre seeks to stimulate research and

innovation, allowing companies to embed R&D into their activities.

The PMBRC has established links with national and international partners in industry,

academia and medical care institutions. The PMBRC Gateway is delivering solutions

for industry in the pharmaceutical and healthcare sectors in areas such as drug

delivery, process technology, biotechnology, biomedical and separation science.

PMCRC offers industry:

Physico-chemical characterisation of materials.

Advanced analytical capability.

Formulation, process development and drug delivery


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b) Swansea University, Singleton Park, Swansea, Wales

Welsh Centre for Printing & Coating (WCPC)

WCPC is one of the World's leading centres for research and development of printing

and coating processes. The WCPC has expertise in screen, flexographic, lithographic,

rotogravure, digital and pad printing. In addition the WCPC also has experience in the

modelling of the print process, using techniques such as finite element, finite

difference and statistical and neural networks. The comprehensive laboratories are

fully equipped for sample analysis and characterization of material properties relevant

to the print process.

Furthermore, the WCPC has access to the extensive facilities within Swansea

University. The multi-disciplinary staff includes post-doctoral and PhD researchers

from both industrial and academic backgrounds, together with support staff. The

expertise in the fundamental science and its practical application to improving process

quality and productivity is used to provide assistance identified by individual

companies, problem solving or developing specific courses for the transfer of

information.

c) Bangor University, Dean Street, Bangor, Gwynedd, Wales

School of Electronic Engineering

With an international reputation as a centre that undertakes both fundamental and

applied research into organic electronic materials and devices, the School of

Electronic Engineering encourages collaboration both nationally and

internationally. The excellent research facilities for organic electronics have been

instrumental in attracting collaboration from as far afield as Brazil, Germany, Japan,

Spain and Taiwan. Current research programmes include:

Organic TFTs and circuits

Organic memory

Interfaces in organic devices

Organic photovoltaics (OPVs)

Sensors

OLEDs


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The School of Electronic Engineering has two main research themes:

Optoelectronic Devices and Systems (ODS),

Organic Electronics (OE),

with further activity in laser micromachining being undertaken in the University‘s

spin-out company UK LMC Ltd based in the OpTIC Technium in St Asaph. Through

a combination of basic, strategic and applied research these groups aim to develop

fundamental understanding of key physical mechanisms and also aim to develop

commercially exploitable technology.


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1.3.3 WIN-IPT Working Projects

They have few of key projects: Organic Photovoltaic (OPV), Solar Monitoring,

Printed Devices, and lastly is Energy Harvesting.

a) Energy harvesting

Energy harvesting technologies provide a model replacement for traditional batteries

in applications where battery power is undesirable due to the cost associated with

battery replacement or where the use of batteries are prohibited due to practical access

limitations. These technologies are ideal for wireless sensors, especially in building

retrofit applications where direct power sources are unavailable or costly to

implement.

An energy harvester will gain energy from its ambient environment and convert it into

usable electrical energy, capable of powering small devices such as the ultra-low

power wireless sensor technology provided by Analog Devices, Ireland. Linking this

technology with the innovative high performance DSSC technology developed by

SolarPrint Ireland, WIN-IPT will demonstrate state-of-the-art energy harvesting

applications through the deployment of ambient powered Wireless Sensor Networks

for the control of energy use in a variety of buildings in the South-East of Ireland and

North Wales.

These buildings will range from historical public sites to ultra-modern high efficiency

buildings. Furthermore, WIN-IPT will combine this technology with the innovative

ASTRAL technology, developed by the Telecommunications Software & Systems

Group (TSSG) at WIT, to produce a novel building energy control product. Capable

of a simple retrofit into existing building stock, this product will assist building

managers to reduce the energy costs associated with the operation of their buildings.

b) Printed devices

Printing processes, such as screen printing, flexography, gravure, offset lithography

and inkjet, which are common to the graphic arts industry can be deployed for the

mass production of low-cost functional electronic devices such as thin film transistors,

solar cells and light emitting diodes.


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The combination of printing expertise, available at the Welsh Centre for Printing and

Coating (WCPC) at Swansea University, and organic device development and

characterisation expertise, available at Bangor University and Waterford Institute of

Technology, will form an innovative research cluster to develop new technologies and

manufacturing processes for photovoltaic and photo emissive devices. This

knowledge cluster will work with industrial partners to develop specialised

conductive ink formulations that will lead to the development of novel devices.

c) Solar monitoring

North Wales and the South-East of Ireland share a common mild climate, with similar

sunshine patterns, and should therefore be capable of generating similar amounts of

solar electricity. While support for the roll-out of solar electricity generation is

comparatively strong in relation to other renewable sources in North Wales, the

opposite is the case for Ireland. Here the desire for increased fuel diversity has not

fully addressed the potential for solar power and the development of grid integration

solutions for renewables. WIN-IPT will address this shortfall in policy by comparing

solar energy yields on both sides of the cross-border region.

Working with innovative companies such as Egnitec and Pure Wafer Solar, WIN-IPT

will develop a number of portable Solar Energy Monitoring stations and carryout a

direct comparison between the two regions. Data collected from existing solar

electricity generating sites in both Ireland and Wales will also be gathered and

compared in order to realistically assess the potential for solar power in the cross-

border region.

Feeding into this will be a survey to determine the potential total rooftop solar

electricity yield for Waterford City in South-East Ireland. WIN-IPT Network‘s

activity will be guided by relevant industrial experiences to ensure that the barriers to

market roll-out can be addressed from the perspective of both the public and the

private sectors.


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Solar Monitoring Data:

WIT SOLAR MONITORING FACILITY, Waterford City, Ireland (Latitude:

52.244886, Longitude: -7.140378)

BANGOR UNIVERSITY SOLAR MONITORING FACILITY, Dean Street, Bangor,

Gwynedd, LL57 1UT, Wales (Latitude: 53.22963, Longitude: -4.12402)

d) Organic Photovoltaic

Organic Photovoltaic (OPV) devices, based on small molecules and polymers, have

the potential to provide a low-cost alternative to silicon in the generation of solar

electricity. With reported laboratory power conversion efficiencies exceeding 10%,

and the potential for manufacture using suitable printing processes, OPV is an

exciting future technology.

Key outstanding issues to be addressed include:

The identification of organic molecules/polymers that can be prepared in ink

formulation for printing

Optimisation of the lifetime and performance of OPV devices

Of particular interest is the ability to integrate the manufacture of these devices with

other printable technologies to produce fully functional self-powered devices of high

reliability. WIN-IPT will work with industrial partners to develop a knowledge cluster

in the cross-border region to support this emerging technology.

http://www.winipt.eu/index.php?cID=233

http://www.winipt.eu/index.php?cID=283


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Chapter 2: Projects, Tasks and Activities

During my work placement at Nanotechnology Research Group in WIT, I have

worked on different tasks, projects and activities. The projects and activities can be

divided into weekly tasks that involve programming work and office work that have

to be conducted at the actual events.

2.1 Weekly Tasks and Activities Description

Week 2 to week 9

Redesign a new interface of Weather Station Data.

Interpreted and investigated the former code with errors.

Modified it and improved the previous system.

Examined and tested the code repeatedly until no error exists.

Tested the completed system whether it fully utilized or not.

Start from week 2, I have received the first task of my project that is to identify and

resolve the errors of previous system of Solar Energy Monitoring. The Solar Energy

Monitoring System is a system used to calculate and generate final result of solar

energy, for instances: daily yield, daily irradiance, specific yield and performance

ratio after gathering the MPP Data and Logfile Data. These results will then ready to

copy into the website as required after the documentation.

Meanwhile, it is Microsoft Visual Studio in base system which means that I can write

my programming coding and interface design in VB mode. At first, I need to redesign

a new interface of the system with more user-friendly and easy to use. I had made

minor changes on interface of this system. For instances: I set the bigger size of font

to let the user easy to recognize and won‘t be easily wrong press. In addition, I also

hide some of the buttons so that the user won‘t be confuse and follows the step when

they using of this system. The hidden buttons will be showed respectively when it

reaches its function. Below are some differences between previous system and new

created system:


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Previous Solar Monitoring System


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New Interface Solar Monitoring System


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After design for the interface, I then started to interpreted and investigated the former

code in order to fix into my new-design system. When the errors exist, I need to

modified the codes in another way to keep the system running free of error even

improve the system. This process has to be done repeatedly as when an error exists at

certain part of the code, it might not work well in the next coming codes. Therefore,

every time I have to examine the codes and test debug run of the system after

modifying the codes. For the coding, I will explain more details in chapter 2.1.1.

Week 10 to week 15

Collected the data at root top of Engineering Building of WIT.

Managed and organised annual and monthly weather station data for year

2014 and 2015

Prepared graph and schematic diagram for annual and monthly weather station

data.

Summarised the annual and monthly weather station data by collection of

information.

During week 10, I was accompanied by Yang Dong in order to collect the MPP and

logfile Data from WIT solar monitoring facility which is the root top of engineering

building of WIT. The Solar Monitoring Facility at Waterford Institute of Technology

is comprised of

i) Weather Station - Davis Instrument Vantage Pro 2, with Solar Radiation

and UV Sensors

ii) PureWafer 235W Polycrystalline Silicon Solar Panel, inclined at 37

degrees to the horizontal

iii) Egnitec PVMS250 PV Measurement System, for logging PV data


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PureWafer 235W Polycrystalline Silicon Solar Panel

Davis Instrument Vantage Pro 2

PVMS250 PV Measurement System


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The Davis Instrument Vantage Pro2 weather station series function as to measure

barometric pressure, temperature, humidity, rainfall, wind speed and direction,

UV/solar(with additional of Solar Radiation and UV Sensor) and soon on. It consists

of 2 components: the Integrated Sensor Suite (ISS) which houses and manages the

external sensor array; and the weather station console which provides the user

interface, data display, A/D conversion and calculations. The Integrated Sensor Suite

(ISS) collects outside weather data and sends the data to a Vantage Pro2 console. The

standard version of the ISS contains a rain collector, temperature sensor, humidity

sensor and anemometer. Temperature and humidity sensors are mounted in a passive

radiation shield to minimize the impact of solar radiation on sensor readings. The

anemometer measures wind speed and direction and can be installed adjacent to the

ISS or apart from it.

Integrated Sensor Suite

Vantage Pro2 Weather Station console displays and records the station‘s weather data,

provides graph and alarm functions, and interfaces to a computer using the optional

WeatherLink® software. This instrument is actually where the output of Logfile Data

I used. Furthermore, Vantage Pro2 weather station also includes 2 additional sensors

which are UV Sensor and Solar Radiation Sensor. Solar Radiation and UV Sensors is

to measure global radiation, the sum at the point of measurement of both the direct

and diffuse components of solar irradiance. The sensor‘s transducer, which converts


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incident radiation to electrical current, is a silicon photodiode with wide spectral

response. From the sensor‘s output voltage, the console calculates and displays solar

irradiance. It also integrates the irradiance values and displays total incident energy

over a set period of time.

Vantage Pro2 Weather Station console

The solar panel that our facility used to record the photovoltaic energy output is

PureWafer 235W Polycrystalline Silicon Solar Panel. In order to get the maximum

solar energy productivity, the solar panel we have inclined it at 37 degrees to the

horizontal. PVMS250 will then collect the measurement of PV output and record into

MPP Data file.

PureWafer 235W Polycrystalline Silicon Solar Panel


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The PVMS250 unit is a dedicated photovoltaic measurement system. It incorporates a

maximum power point tracker (MPPT) and current-voltage (IV) curve tracing

capability, as well as two PT100 temperature sensor inputs. Between regular IV traces

the PV module under test can be maintained at specific operating conditions:

maximum power point (MPP), open circuit or short circuit.

PVMS250 Photovoltaic Measurement Systems

In order to let the user to get the data easily when using of this system, I had arranged

all the MPP Data and Logfile Data into a folder in sort of month and year. Afterwards,

I begin to manage and organise the MPP Data and Logfile Data by using the Solar

Monitoring System. This is because I need to make a performance analysis for the

year 2014 and year 2015. For the performance analysis, it contains of 12 months of

data and I have to make a monthly summary on Solar Irradiance, System Yield,

Specific Yield, and Performance Ratio for each month.

i) Solar Irradiance- Total solar energy was available.

ii) System Yield- Total of actual energy produced by the system.

iii) Performance Ratio- Measure of the quality of a PV system

iv) Specific Yield- Measure of energy produced per unit of installed capacity.

At the same time, I also have to prepare graphical diagram in order to support the data

and provide a visual presentation of the data above. Therefore, an annual summary

can be completed by doing this. Graphs and Data (including on Monthly Summary

sheet) will have been updated and can be copied into the website as required.


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2.2 Programming Work

The projects that I have worked on during my work placement can be divided into the

following 5 parts, the figure below shown that the flow chart of Solar Monitoring

System.

Figure 2.1 Flow Chart of Solar Monitoring System

First part of system is to browse the monthly Logfile data of weather station data.

Inside this text file consists of various kinds of solar monitoring data: date, time,

temperature, wind speed, wind direction, humidity, solar radiation, solar energy and

soon on in every minute which are important for data processing and documentation.

For the second part, the function is to load the selected Logfile by clicking ‗load‘

button and then to transfer it into the excel form of data grid view. The purpose of 3rd

part is to calculate the average temperature, hourly and daily solar irradiation per day

based on the value of collected data (temperature and solar radiation) and solar

formulae. Each of the data will printed on the second data grid view by daily. The 4th

part of system is to fill in the PV (photovoltaic) data by inserting the certain month of

MPP Data which is in ‗csv‘ form of excel file. After inserting MPP Data, the system

Part 1:

Browse Button

Part 3:

Read Button

Part 2:

Load Button

Part 4:

PV Button

Part 5:

Save Button Solar

Monitoring

System


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started to calculate hourly and daily PV output which is the power generated by

photovoltaic. Moreover, it also compute the specific yield and performance ratio

based on certain formulae. For the 5th part is the last part of system, is to transfer and

save all the processed data into excel form of data. The data saved in the form of excel

will be exactly same as the data that showed in the data grid view of the system.

2.2.1 Description of coding of Solar Monitoring System

Part 1: Browse Button

Figure 2.2 Function WeatherStationData_Load

Figure 2.2 shows that the default loading of Solar Monitoring System. I set that the

ability of each button except ‗Browse‘ button as false so that no user is pressing that

button before clicking the ‗Browse‘ button.

Figure 2.3 Function ButtonBrowse_Click


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Figure 2.3 states that the function of button ‗Browse‘. I inserted a dialog function

called as ―FolderBrowserDialog‖ so that to let the user to search the Logfile Data

folder location in ‗txt‘ type of file from the PC. If there is a multiple Logfile Data in

that folder, it will repeat and continue add into the listbox until the last ‗txt‘ file. Once

the user selects any one of the Logfile Data from listbox, the system will enable the

button ‗Load‘ to ready for the next step.

Part 2: Load Button

Figure 2.4 Function ButtonLoad_Click

Figure 2.4 show that the function of button ‗Load‘. I had clear the row and set 38

columns of data grid view. This is because inside the Logfile Data has 38 columns of

different type of data, for examples: Solar Radiation, UV Index, Wind Direction,

Wind Speed, Temperature and soon on. A ―For Loop‖ is needed here to print out the

name index of each of data. After that, another ―For Loop‖ is needed to read the value

of row of Logfile Data. As we know, each row consists of collected various solar data

per minute. It takes some time to read the data as monthly logfile data consists of 43

thousand of rows to print into the DataGridView1, which is ―Weather Data Load‖ tab

control. After the completion of loop, the data grid view will add another row to


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indicate that the progress is finish. Therefore, the system will proceed to another tab

control which is ―Weather Station Data‖ and the GroupBox1 which contains of button

‗Read‘ and button ‗PV‘ is enable to show for next function.

Figure 2.5 Function FillingResults

Figure 2.5 shows that the private sub function of FillingResults which is used to print

out each of the header name into DataGridView2. This function must be done before

the function of ‗Read‘ button because the header must be given to let the user know

the type of the value.

Part 3: Read Button

Figure 2.6 Function ButtonRead_Click

Figure 2.6 shows that the function of button ‗Read‘. After completion of running

function read(), it enable the ‗PV‘ button.


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Figure 2.7 Function read()

Figure 2.7 shows the function read(). At first, I make some declaration on which data

on I used. Therefore, a ―For Loop‖ is needed to accumulate the total value of solar

radiation and temperature per day in order to get the average value of them. As you

can see, after accumulate every minute of the value of solar radiation and temperature,

‗samples‘ will also accumulate by 1 until the end of the day. It mean that the values


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will then divided by ‗samples‘ which is total 1440 minutes (24 hours x 60 minutes) to

get the average value on that day. This step is keep repeated until the end of the month.

As I mentioned in Figure 2.1.4, each of the value of average temperature, hourly solar

irradiation and daily solar irradiation will then print on their column respectively day

by day.

Part 4: PV Button

Figure 2.8 Function ButtonPV_Click

Figure 2.8 shows the function of button ‗PV‘. As the same way as button ‗Browse‘, I

inserted ―FolderBrowserDialog‖ to let the user to search another type of file: MPP

Data in ‗csv‘ form. The ―While Loop‖ is place here to make sure the user to insert the

correct month of MPP Data with Logfile Data as a message box will appear to warn

the user to browse the MPP Data again and again until the right month of MPP Data

inserted. If the inserting of MPP data is same month of logfile data, then it will

continue run through the function of read2().


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Figure 2.9 Function read2()

Once the system run here, it will calculate hourly and daily PV output which is the

power generated by photovoltaic. Moreover, it also compute the specific yield and

performance ratio based on certain formulae.


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Part 5: Save Button

Figure 2.10 Function ButtonSave_Click

Figure 2.10 is the function of transferring and saving all the processed data into excel

form of data. The data saved in the form of excel will be exactly same as the data that

showed in the data grid view of the system. This part of system does not face lots of

problem as the coding run smoothly and data in excel file is exact the same with the

system.


28

2.2.2 User Guide for Solar Monitoring System

In order to use the system, below is the guidance of the way to access the Solar

Monitoring System.

1. Import the logfile data by clicking the ‗Browse‘ button.

i. It will bring u to a new interface that to browse for the folder, it is

recommend that put all the Logfile Data into a specific folder so that

easier to find the location.

ii. After select the folder where the Logfile Data put inside, click ‗OK‘

button to proceed to next step.

iii. The listbox will display the Logfile Data in ‗txt‘ type. The ‗Load‘

button is unable to click as none of the Logfile Data is choose.


29

2. Select any one of logfile data and press the button ‗Load‘.

i. The system will need some time to access the data and then transform

them into data grid view on the ―Weather Data Load‖ tab control page.

ii. After complete the loading, all the Logfile Data will display on the tab

control ―Weather Data Load‖.

3. Click the ‗Read‘ button to proceed the next step.

i. This step also need some time to run as it calculate the the average

temperature, hourly and daily solar irradiation per day based on the

data in logfile.

ii. After the completion of calculation, all the results will display on the

tab control of ―Processed Weather Data‖.


30

4. Import the MPP Data in ‗csv‘ type of excel file by pressing ‗PV‘ button.

i. Make sure that the month of MPP Data file must be exact the same

month with Logfile Data.

ii. Same as above, the system also need some time to run through the

calculation of hourly, daily PV output, specific yield and performance

ratio.

iii. The results will also show at the same page.


31

5. Press the ‗Save‘ button to save all the results in ―Processed Weather Data‖ and

transform into excel form.


32

2.3 Office Work

Once done for the programming part of Solar Monitoring System, I had got to begin

to manage and organise the MPP Data and Logfile Data by using the Solar

Monitoring System. This is because I need to make a performance analysis for the

year 2014 and year 2015. For the performance analysis, it contains of 12 months of

data and I have to make a monthly summary on Solar Irradiance, System Yield,

Specific Yield, and Performance Ratio for each month.








sheet) will have been updated and can be copied into the website as required. At last, I

got to make another copy of performance analysis for WIN-IPT in order to assimilate

the format of the Weather Station Data of Waterford with Weather Station Data of

Bangor. This is because WIN-IPT will need both of these data to develop a number of

portable Solar Energy Monitoring stations and carryout a direct comparison between

the two regions.


33

2.3.1 Office work for WIT Weather Station

As I mentioned in my weekly log, I need to sum up some of the value respectively as

I need to make a summary of monthly and annually performance analysis on

Waterford Weather Station Data. There are a few values that I needed to calculate:

Daily Solar Irradiance, Daily Photovoltaic Output, Specific Yield, and Performance

Ratio. At here, I would like to explain each of these terms:

i) Daily Solar Irradiance is a measure of the solar energy (measured in

kWh/m2) by daily produced by the Sun in the form of electromagnetic

radiation.

ii) Daily PV Output is the amount of usable energy (measured in kWh)

produced by the system by daily after harvesting of solar energy.

iii) Specific Yield is the total annual energy generated per unit of installed

capacity (measure in kWh/kWp). It is often used to help determine the

financial value of an array and compare operating results from different

technologies and systems

iv) Performance Ratio is a measure of the quality of a PV system (including

BOS components) and its performance in a specific location –

dimensionless. It shows up losses due to shading, soiling, inverter losses,

irradiation, temperature etc. It is less dependent on irradiation levels than

specific yield. The formulae of performance ratio is given below:

( (

)

( )

)

Performance Ratio values:

>0.8 – good system

0.65-0.8 – average system

<0.65 – poor system

At first, I have to total up the values of Daily Solar Irradiance, Daily PV Output, and

also Specific Yield for specific month sheet. This is because I need the total amount

of Solar Irradiance and PV Output to calculate the average performance ratio for that


34

month. After that, I can make a calculation on Performance Ratio once I get the total

values for both Daily Solar Irradiance and Daily PV Output. By using the formula

given above, total of Daily PV Output divided by total of Daily Solar Irradiance and

also the peak power of PV which is 0.235 (as ours module the PV using is 235Wp).

Therefore, 2 graphical diagrams for both Daily Solar Irradiance and Daily PV Output

are required to support the data and provide a visual presentation of the data. This

procedure need to conduct for several times in order to make up the annually

performance analysis.


35

For the annually performance analysis, a new sheet is opened to copy the monthly

weather station data into here. As you can see, the values for each month of the PV

Output, Solar Irradiance, Specific Yield and Performance Ratio are copied into this

page in order to make a graphical diagram for the purpose of visualisation

presentation.


36

Besides, I have to prepare another performance analysis for WIN-IPT Weather Station

Data. I was given another Solar Monitoring System to do this. The new Solar

Monitoring System was using of database of Microsoft Access to run through the

program. Below is the user guide for Performance Database for WIN-IPT Weather

Station Data:

1. Open PV_performance.mdb (access database)

a. FIRST TIME ONLY – the user will need to delete all the records form the

tbl_WeatherData table

2. Import egnitec data

a. Move all MPP Data files into a folder

b. Open frmImportData

i. Import Folder by clicking ‗…‘, it will select folder where MPP

Data files are located.

ii. File Type – set to default mode ―Egnitec MPP_IV‖

iii. Click on ‗Validate‘, it should return with ―Validation Complete‖

and File Count will have the number of valid data files it found.

iv. Click on ―Process Data‖, it should return with ―Processing

Complete‖ and Record Count will have the number of import

records processed. Import File will have name of the file holding

the import records.

v. Click on ―Import Data‖, the user will be asked if they wish to

―Delete Existing Records from Table?‖ – (FIRST TIME ONLY)

select ―Yes‖ the first time to use this database (this will delete all

the existing Bangor data), otherwise ―No‖.


37

vi. The user may get a message warning that they won‘t be able to

undo the paste append – click ―Yes‖ to continue. The user will get

an ―Import Complete‖ message once the data has been imported.

3. Import Weather Data

a. Click on ―External Data‖ ribbon tab heading

b. Click on ―Text File‖ on the ―Import‖ section of the ribbon – this will bring

up ―Get External Data –Text File‖ dialog box

i. File name – select the weather Data Logfile.

ii. Click on ―Append a copy of the records to the table‖ radio button

iii. Select ―tbl_WeatherData‖ from combo list

iv. Click OK to bring up the ―Import Text Wizard‖ dialog


38

v. Click ―Advanced...‖ to bring up Import Specification dialog

vi. Click ―Specs...‖, select ―Weatherlink Import Specification‖ from

list and Click on ―Open‖. This will open the ―Weatherlink Import

Specification‖ in the Import spec dialog.


39

vii. Click ―OK‖ to bring back to the Import text File dialog.

viii. Click ―Finish‖ to import the data.

ix. Access will come back with ―Access unable to append all the data

to the table‖

x. Click ―Yes‖ to proceed with appending data to table.

xi. ―Save Import Steps‖ dialog will be displayed. Click ―Close‖.

4. Extract Performance Monitoring Data

a. Open ―PV_Performance_2015.xlsx‖ excel spreadsheet

b. Open frmExportData form in Access – it might take a while to load, as

it builds a list of valid export months.

c. Select the month for which you wish to extract data.

d. Click on ―Daily Yield‖ to extract daily yield data (it might take a while

to run!). A query will be displayed with the data records.

e. Copy the data to the clipboard - Right click on box at top left of query

and select ―Copy‖


40

f. Switch to the spread sheet and select cell A27 and paste the data.

g. This will update the data on the spread sheet and the associated graph

and calculated monthly totals. The spread sheet was designed with two

modules in mind, so I will probably have to change it a bit as I only

have one module.

h. Repeat for ―Solar Energy‖ and ―Monitoring Availability‖ (use the

―Monitoring Availability (Post May 2014)‖ button), pasting into cells

indicated above.

5. Monthly Summary –I will need to change formulae for Specific Yield, for

ours module is 235Wp.

6. Graphs and Data (including on Monthly Summary sheet) will now have been

updated and can be copied into the website as required.


41

On a monthly basis:

Monitoring Availability: a measure of what was measured and when was it

measured, it is very useful as a guide to how accurate

the other figures are.

Energy Yield : a measure of actual energy produced (in kWh).

Daily Irradiance : a measure of how much energy was available (in

kWh/m2).

Therefore, I got to calculate performance figures like Energy Yield, Specific Yield,

Performance Ratio & Total Irradiation based on certain formulae. On an annual basis

I need to report monthly totals for System Yield and Irradiation, Specific Yield and

Performance Ratio like the same way as WIT Weather Station Data.


42

Chapter 3: Learning Outcomes

Work placement is the beginning of the road that will lead me what I want to be at

after my graduation. Besides, it provides a good opportunity for me to practice I need

to perform and also prepares me for the future life that I aim at. In this chapter I will

reflect on my work placement.

Improving of Practical Skill

The work placement let me have the opportunity to connect the learning of theory in

the class with current industry challenges, and have exposure to the latest

technologies. It was exactly what I needed to foster the lack of practical skills I had.

For example, I had learnt of programming language and done a mini assignment on

this programming during last semester and this work placement provide me a great

chance to apply my programming knowledge fully on Solar Monitoring System. I

would acquire practical experience to complement the theoretical content of my

studies. In addition, I was taught some basics on data collection, data processing and

setting-up research projects.

Learning of New Theoretical Knowledge

During my work placement period in the Nanotechnology Research Group of WIT, it

was a new learning on my theoretical knowledge, when I have been learned the

course of Electronics Engineering in the classroom. Through this work placement, I

had been learnt more about the knowledge on renewable energy which is solar energy

and also photovoltaic system. This knowledge might be helpful for me to search for

my future career.

Enhancing of Interpersonal Communication Skills

During my work placement period, the Interpersonal skills, the skills I use every day

to communicate and interact with other people, are greatly improved for me. Not only

how I communicate with others, but also I got confidence and my ability to listen and

understand. Problem solving, decision making and personal stress management are

also considered interpersonal skills. Through this internship, I found that I gained

many new perspectives, such as problem solving skill, diversity, and good


43

communication, attention to detail, time management, self-confidence, responsibility

and cultural sensitivity. Although I was reserved in communication at the beginning

due to my main language is Chinese language but in the course of months it went

better. This is because an interesting and open attitude of the people has helped me a

lots in this field. Besides, my supervisor was so kind to answer with patience and

teach me much that made this work placement so enjoyable. I had gotten a wonderful

internship that spent such a happy moment with all of them.

Work Ethics Related Issue

A work placement is an opportunity to learn the skills and behaviours along with the

work values that are required for success in the workplace. Workplace ethics are

established codes of conduct that reflect the values of the organization or company

where you are employed. I have seen possess a willingness to work hard from my

supervisor during my work placement period. In addition to working hard it is also

important to work smart. This means I acquired the most efficient way to complete

tasks and finding ways to save time while completing daily tasks. It‘s also important

to care about my job and complete all projects while maintaining a positive attitude.


44

Chapter 4 Conclusion

After going through the whole period of work placement as a research student, I‘ve

observed so many professional activities and learnt them as well. One main thing that

I have learned through this internship is time management skills as well as self-

motivation. When I first started I did not think that I was going to be able to make

myself sit in an office for six hours a day, five days a week. Once I realized what I

had to do I organized my day and work so that I was not overlapping or wasting my

hours. I learned that I needed to be organized and have questions ready for when it

was the correct time to get feedback.

From this work placement and time management I had to learn how to motivate

myself through being in the office for so many hours. I came up with various

proposals and ideas that the group is still looking into using. This work placement

program was very fruitful to me because I had to cover many different fields not only

cultural part. I also learnt new concepts and new ways of working. During this period

I acquired practical experience to complement the theoretical content of my study for

campus WIT.

In conclusion, this practical training has exposed me with the technical working

environment as my preparation to join the workforce upon my completion studies.

This work placement experience also helps in producing well-balanced graduates who

are not only technically competent but also skilled in interpersonal communication,

which is the main moving force of advancement. This work placement was definitely

beneficial for me and I‘m grateful and thankful that I got to experience and learn

many things.


45

References

About the Welsh Centre for Printing and Coating in Welsh Centre for Printing and

Coating. Retrieve from

http://wcpcswansea.com/about/

About WIN-IPT in Wales Ireland Network for Innovative Photovoltaic Technologies.

Retrieved from

http://www.winipt.eu/index.php/about/ , http://www.winipt.eu/index.php/projects/

Integrated Sensor Suite Installation Manual in Davis Instruments Corp. . Retrieved

from

http://www.davisnet.com/product_documents/weather/manuals/07395-

249_IM_06152.pdf

PMBRC Gateway - Pharmaceutical & Healthcare in Enterprise Ireland. Retrieved

from

http://www.enterprise-ireland.com/en/research-innovation/companies/collaborate-

with-companies-research-institutes/technology-gateway-pmbrc.html

PVMS Photovoltaic Measurement Systems—Specification in Engitec. Retrieved from

http://www.egnitec.com/downloads/PVMS_Unit_Spec_(1.0).pdf

Research in the School of Electronic Engineering in Bangor University. Retrieved

from

http://www.bangor.ac.uk/eng/research.php.en

http://wcpcswansea.com/about/

http://www.winipt.eu/index.php/about/

http://www.winipt.eu/index.php/projects/

http://www.davisnet.com/product_documents/weather/manuals/07395-249_IM_06152.pdf


http://www.enterprise-ireland.com/en/research-innovation/companies/collaborate-with-companies-research-institutes/technology-gateway-pmbrc.html

http://www.enterprise-ireland.com/en/research-innovation/companies/collaborate-with-companies-research-institutes/technology-gateway-pmbrc.html

http://www.egnitec.com/downloads/PVMS_Unit_Spec_(1.0).pdf

http://www.bangor.ac.uk/eng/research.php.en


46

School of Engineering-Welcome in Waterford Institute of Technology. Retrieved from

http://www.wit.ie/schools/engineering/school_of_engineering

Vantage Pro2 Console Manual in Davis Instruments Corp. . Retrieved from

http://www.davisnet.com/product_documents/weather/manuals/07395-

234_IM_06312.pdf

http://www.wit.ie/schools/engineering/school_of_engineering




47

Appendices

Appendix I

Weekly Logs

BEng (Hons) Electronic Engineering – WIT

Work Placement Weekly Log

Employment Record

Sheet Student: Lee Siang Wei

Week Ending:

13 February 2015 Week No. : 1

Day Hours Work Description

Monday 6

Have a tour of Nanotechnology Research Group at

Engineering Research Building of WIT.

Introduced of the personnel and facilities of the

department.

Tuesday 6

Detailed orientation to the department‟s work placement

project.

Become one of the contributors of the Solar Energy

Monitoring Project.

Wednesday 6 Familiarize myself with various kinds of data of solar

monitoring and harvesting.

Online self-learning of basic theory and knowledge of

Solar Energy and Insolation.

Thursday 6

Friday 6

SIGNED: DATE:

_____________________ Student _____________________

_____________________ Industry Supervisor _____________________

_____________________ WIT Placement Tutor _____________________



Employment Record


Week Ending:

6 March 2015 Week No. : 2


Monday 6

Received first task of the project that is to identify and

resolve the errors of previous system of solar energy

monitoring.

Online self-revision on basic theory of Visual Basic

information.

Tuesday 6 Online self -revision on basic theory of Visual Basic

information.

Wednesday 6

Redesign a new interface of Weather Station Data.



Examined and tested the code repeatedly until no error

exists.

Coding Progress:

1st part of system which is „Browse‟ button that used

to browse the „txt‟ files of monthly weather station

data. (Done)

1st part of system is considered as easier part in overall

of the system because its function is only to browse the

„txt‟ data from computer.

Thursday 6

Friday 6

SIGNED: DATE:

_____________________ Student _____________________





Employment Record


Week Ending:



Monday 6




exists.

Coding Progress:

2nd part of system is then to load the monthly „txt‟

files and transfer it into excel form of data grid

view. (Pending)

2nd part of system faced a minor problem but it‟s

not vital during the loading of „txt‟ files. It takes

longer time to load the monthly file and then

transform into data grid view.

Tuesday 6

Wednesday 6

Thursday 6

Friday 6

SIGNED: DATE:

_____________________ Student _____________________





Employment Record


Week Ending:



Monday 6




exists.

Coding Progress:

2nd part of system is then to load the monthly „txt‟

files and transfer it into excel form of data grid

view. (Done)

Tuesday 6

Wednesday 6

Thursday 6

Friday 6

SIGNED: DATE:

_____________________ Student _____________________





Employment Record


Week Ending:



Monday 6




exists.

Coding Progress:

3rd

part of system is to calculate the average

temperature, hourly and daily solar irradiation based

on the value of collected data and solar formulae.

(Pending)

3rd

part of system is one of the complicated parts

because the code still consisting errors and will not

return to its real value.

Tuesday 6

Wednesday 6

Thursday 6

Friday 6

SIGNED: DATE:

_____________________ Student _____________________





Employment Record


Week Ending:

3 April 2015 Week No. : 6


Monday 6 Interpreted and investigated the former code with errors.



exists.

Coding Progress:

3rd

part of system is the „read‟ button functions as to

read the data in excel form and calculate the average

temperature, hourly and daily solar irradiation based

on the value of collected data and solar formulae.

(Done)

Finally the values of hourly and daily solar

irradiance return to its real value.

This is because some of the coding has mixed

together and caused the errors exists.

Tuesday 6

Wednesday 6

Thursday 6

Friday 6

SIGNED: DATE:

_____________________ Student _____________________





Employment Record


Week Ending:






exists.

Coding Progress:

4th part of system is to calculate the hourly, daily

PV output, specific yield and performance ratio on

certain month based on certain formulae by

inserting Excel „csv‟ files which is consist of MPP

data. (Pending)

While the MPP data consists of Impp, Vmpp,

Module Temperature 1&2 and Err. Impp and Vmpp

are MPP current and MPP voltage that hold the

current and voltage reading taken at specific time.

Meanwhile, Module Temperature 1&2 are PT 100

temperature from sensor 1&2. Err is the current

operating status of the unit.

Encountered a problem that sometimes it can‟t load

the Excel csv file and also stuck at 12th line of row.

Tuesday 6

Wednesday 6

Thursday 6

Friday 6

SIGNED: DATE:

_____________________ Student _____________________





Employment Record Sheet Student: Lee Siang Wei

Week Ending:






exists.

Coding Progress:

4th part of system is to calculate the hourly, daily

PV output, specific yield and performance ratio on

certain month based on certain formulae by

inserting Excel „csv‟ files which is consist of MPP

data. (Done)

The problem solved by modifying the codes. This is

because the „temppath‟ of the coding didn‟t match

the original path name of Excel „csv‟ files.

Tuesday 6

Wednesday 6

Thursday 6

Friday 6

SIGNED: DATE:

_____________________ Student _____________________





Employment Record


Week Ending:



Monday 6




exists.

Tested the completed system whether it utilised or not.

Coding Progress:

5th part of system is to save all the processed data

and transferred all of them into excel files. (Done)

Tuesday 6

Wednesday 6

Thursday 6

Friday 6

SIGNED: DATE:

_____________________ Student _____________________





Employment Record


Week Ending:

1 May 2015 Week No. : 10


Monday 6

Collected the data at root top of Engineering Building of

WIT.

Arranged MPP Data and Logfile Data into a folder in sort

of month and year.

Managed and organised annual and monthly weather

station data for year 2014.

Prepared graph and schematic diagram for annual and

monthly weather station data.

Summarised the annual and monthly weather station data

by collection of information.

Tuesday 6

Wednesday 6

Thursday 6

Friday 6

SIGNED: DATE:

_____________________ Student _____________________





Employment Record


Week Ending:

8 May 2015 Week No. : 11


Monday 6







Tuesday 6

Wednesday 6

Thursday 6

Friday 6

SIGNED: DATE:

_____________________ Student _____________________





Employment Record


Week Ending:

15 May 2015 Week No. : 12


Monday 6







Tuesday 6

Wednesday 6

Thursday 6

Friday 6

SIGNED: DATE:

_____________________ Student _____________________





Employment Record


Week Ending:

22 May 2015 Week No. : 13


Monday 6







Tuesday 6

Wednesday 6

Thursday 6

Friday 6

SIGNED: DATE:

_____________________ Student _____________________





Employment Record


Week Ending:

29 May 2015 Week No. : 14


Monday 6







Tuesday 6

Wednesday 6

Thursday 6

Friday 6

SIGNED: DATE:

_____________________ Student _____________________





Employment Record


Week Ending:

5 June 2015 Week No. : 15


Monday 6







Tuesday 6

Wednesday 6

Thursday 6

Friday 6

SIGNED: DATE:

_____________________ Student _____________________



Appendix II

Monthly Progress Report


Week Beginning: 9th

February 2015

Week Ending: 27th

February 2015

For the 1st week of my internship, I take part in a tour of the Nanotechnology

Research Group at Engineering Research Building of WIT and was introduced to

various personnel. Lots of facilities and utensils of the department were also

introduced on their general use of application and instruction to using them.

Following the coming next day, a detailed orientation to the several of internship

programs were announced by my internship supervisor. I received my special project

assignment and then began to experience the Solar Monitoring Division.

WIN-IPT (stands for The Wales Ireland Network for Innovative Photovoltaic

Technologies) is an industry-driven initiative, designed to promote invention and

develop business opportunities for small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs)

working in the area of Photovoltaic (PV) technologies. They have few of key projects:

Organic Photovoltaic (OPV), Solar Monitoring, Printed Devices, and lastly is Energy

Harvesting. As I mentioned from above, I was assign to the Solar Monitoring division.

This division is to develop a number of portable Solar Energy Monitoring stations and

carryout a direct comparison between Bangor (North Wales) and Waterford (South-

East of Ireland). Data collected from existing solar electricity generating sites in both

Ireland and Wales will also be gathered and compared in order to accurately assess

the potential for solar power in the cross-border region. WIN-IPT will comparing

solar energy yields on both sides of the cross-border region. Meanwhile, the solar

monitoring data consists of 2 facilities which is WIT Solar Monitoring Facility and

Bangor University Solar Monitoring Facility.

In this division, I have to familiarize myself as soon as possible with numerous kinds

of solar monitoring data such as Logfile, MPP (Maximum Power Point) Data, IV

Main, and IV Data. Logfile stores extra information (maximum and minimum

temperature, humidity, wind speed, wind direction, solar energy and soon on) for each

unit. MPP Data file holds each set of MPP measurements (current, voltage, 2x module

temperatures) as well as an indicator of system operating status. IV Main file holds

one record for each IV curve and IV Data file holds each of the current-voltage points

on the curve as a separate record. These data are collected from the root top of

Engineering Building of WIT by PVMS250 unit. The PVMS250 unit is a dedicated

photovoltaic measurement system. It incorporates a maximum power point tracker

(MPPT) and current-voltage (IV) curve tracing capability, as well as two PT100

temperature sensor inputs. At the same time, I also make my online learning of basic

theory and knowledge of Solar Insulation and Photovoltaic technologies in order to

fix myself into this division.

SIGNED: DATE:

_____________________ Student _____________________




Week Beginning: 2nd

March 2015

Week Ending: 27th

March 2015

Start from this week, I have received the first task of my project that is to identify and

resolve the errors of previous system of Solar Energy Monitoring. The Solar Energy

Monitoring System is a system used to calculate and generate final result of solar

energy, for instances: daily yield, daily irradiance, specific yield and performance

ratio after gathering the MPP Data and Logfile Data. At the same time, I have to make

revision on basic theory of Visual Basic myself again by online learning.

As my main task of this project is to resolve the Solar Energy Monitoring System, I

need to redesign a new interface of the system. It used me up to few hours to redesign

so that to make the system more user-friendly and easy to use. This week onwards, I

have started to interpreted and investigated the former code in order to fix into my

new-design system. When the errors exist, I need to make some changes on the codes

to keep the system running free of error even also improve the system. This process

has to be done repeatedly as when an error exists at certain part of the code, it might

not work well in the next coming codes. Therefore, every time I have to examine the

codes and test debug run of the system after modifying the codes.

Back to my programming project, I divided it into five parts. First part of system is to

browse the monthly Logfile data of weather station data. Inside this text file consists

of various kinds of solar monitoring data: date, time, temperature, wind speed, wind

direction, humidity, solar radiation, solar energy and soon on in every minute which

are important for data processing and documentation. At first, a „browse‟ button is

created to show the Logfile onto the listbox of the system. The code is written to

access the computer file system in order to search the Logfile in„txt‟ type. As there are

many of Logfile where we place together into a folder, therefore a “For Loop” is used

to repeat the searching and adding of Logfile onto the listbox. This part of system is

considered as easier part compare with other parts of system due to its browsing and

adding text file function from the computer.

For the second part, the function is to load the selected Logfile by clicking „load‟

button and then to transfer it into the excel form of data grid view. Firstly, I have to

clear the row and set 38 columns of data grid view. This is because the Logfile has 38

columns of different type of data. After that, a “For Loop” is needed to read the row

of Logfile data. As we know, each row consists of collected various solar data per

minute. It takes some time to read the data as monthly Logfile data consists of 43

thousand of rows to transfer into the data grid view. I tried to modify the codes in

order to minimise the loading time of Logfile but at the last I maintain the coding as

well because it showing more and more errors after edit the coding.

On the last week of this month, I was on my way to complete the part 3 of the solar

monitoring system. It is one of the complicated parts in overall system because it

contains of calculation and formulae of certain data. Meanwhile, it also consists of

many debug errors when I start to run the default system as the value of solar

irradiation doesn‟t return to its value. During this week, I was spent my t ime in

inspecting and analysing the way to solve these problem existed.

SIGNED: DATE:

_____________________ Student _____________________




Week Beginning: 3th

April 2015

Week Ending: 24th

April 2015

During this month, I was still continuing my last work of my project which is part 3 of

the system. I found out that the coding had mixed together with part 4 of the system.

For example, when the data for certain column is allocated in column 7, it is supposed

no other data overlap again in that column as it causes the latest data might

interchange with the oldest data. As a result, this effects to the accuracy of data and

the final calculation of solar irradiation. After that, I have made some changes in the

coding and keep testing for the debug run. Finally the values of hourly and daily solar

irradiance return to its real value.

The purpose of this part is to calculate the average temperature, hourly and daily solar

irradiation per day based on the value of collected data (temperature and solar

radiation) and solar formulae. Each of the data will printed on the second data grid

view by daily. I have modified the coding that to accumulate all the total value of

temperature and solar radiation per day, therefore divided by „sample‟ which is total

1440 minutes (24 hours x 60 minutes) to get the average value on that day. This step

is keep repeated until the end of the month.

The 4th part of system is to fill in the PV (photovoltaic) data by inserting the certain

month of MPP Data which is in „csv‟ form of excel file. After inserting MPP Data, the

system started to calculate hourly and daily PV output which is the power generated

by photovoltaic. Moreover, it also compute the specific yield and performance ratio

based on certain formulae. MPP data consists of Impp, Vmpp, Module Temperature

1&2 and Err. Impp and Vmpp are MPP current and MPP voltage that hold the current

and voltage reading taken at specific time. Meanwhile, Module Temperature 1&2 are

PT 100 temperature from sensor 1&2. Err is the current operating status of the unit.

The time taken for MPP Data is from 4am to 10.59pm in minute every day, there is a

total of 4 records of Impp, Vmpp, Module Temperature 1&2 and Err in a minute.

In this part of system, I found that the certain „MPP Data no found‟ message box keep

showing when the debugging time. After I figure out the problem it comes from the

name of the inserting MPP Data. This is because the system won‟t run smoothly

without the exact same name of the MPP Data file, as the MPP Data file is exact the

same name just the date is different. Besides, the way of this part is almost same like

part 3, if the inserting of MPP data is same month of Logfile data, then it should be

run smoothly throughout the system. On the other side, a message box will appear and

state that the error occurs. All the value calculated will be showed zero due to the

correctness of MPP Data. In order to correct the data again, you have to insert the

correct MPP Data again so let the system to get the correct data.

For the 5th part is the last part of system, is to transfer and save all the processed data

into excel form of data. The data saved in the form of excel will be exactly same as

the data that showed in the data grid view of the system. This part of system does not

face lots of problem as the coding run smoothly and data in excel file is exact the

same with the system.

SIGNED: DATE:

_____________________ Student _____________________




Week Beginning: 27th

April 2015

Week Ending: 5th

June 2015

After done the coding of my project, I have to test the system whether it fully utilised

or not. I have browse for the MPP and Logfile Data from 2014 and then print out the

result in order to compare with the previous data. If the comparison of data is same, it

mean that the system run smoothly.

On the 1st week of May, I was accompanied by Yang Dong in order to collect the

MPP and Logfile Data from WIT solar monitoring facility which is the root top of

engineering building of WIT. The Solar Monitoring Facility at Waterford Institute of

Technology is comprised of

i) Weather Station - Davis Instrument Vantage Pro 2, with Solar Radiation

and UV Sensors

ii) PureWafer 235W Polycrystalline Silicon Solar Panel, inclined at 37

degrees to the horizontal

iii) Egnitec PVMS250 PV Measurement System, for logging PV data

The Davis Instrument Vantage Pro2 weather station series function as to measure

barometric pressure, temperature, humidity, rainfall, wind speed and direction,

UV/solar(with additional of Solar Radiation and UV Sensor) and soon on. It consists

of 2 components: the Integrated Sensor Suite (ISS) which houses and manages the

external sensor array; and the console which provides the user interface, data display,

A/D conversion and calculations. The Integrated Sensor Suite (ISS) collects outside

weather data and sends the data to a Vantage Pro2 console. Vantage Pro2 Weather

Station console displays and records the station‟s weather data, provides graph and

alarm functions, and interfaces to a computer using the optional WeatherLink®

software. This instrument is actually where the output of Logfile data I used.

The solar panel that our facility used to record the photovoltaic energy output is

PureWafer 235W Polycrystalline Silicon Solar Panel. In order to get the maximum

solar energy productivity, the solar panel we have inclined it at 37 degrees to the

horizontal. PVMS250 will then collect the measurement of PV output and record into

MPP Data file. The PVMS250 unit is a dedicated photovoltaic measurement system.

It incorporates a maximum power point tracker (MPPT) and current-voltage (IV)

curve tracing capability, as well as two PT100 temperature sensor inputs. Between

regular IV traces the PV module under test can be maintained at specific operating

conditions: maximum power point (MPP), open circuit or short circuit.

The coming next day, I continue arrange all the MPP Data and Logfile Data into a

folder in sort of month and year so that to let the user to get the data easily when using

of this system. Afterwards, I begin to analyse and organise the MPP Data and Logfile

Data by using the Solar Monitoring System. This is because I need to make a

performance analysis for the year 2014 and year 2015. For the performance analysis,

it contains of 12 months of data and I have to make a monthly summary on Solar

Irradiance, System Yield, Specific Yield, and Performance Ratio for each month.








sheet) will have been updated and can be copied into the website as required.

SIGNED: DATE:

_____________________ Student _____________________



Appendix III

CV

Work Placement CV – BEng (Hons) in Electronic Engineering (WD086)

http://www.wit.ie/wd086 Name: Lee Siang Wei Date of Birth: 24 April 1993

E-mail: [email protected] Tel: +353 831673290 Nationality: Malaysian Address: Apartment 21C, Block 9, Riverwalk Accommodation, Inner Ring Road, Waterford.

EDUCATION

Third Level

College: Waterford Institute of Technology Date: Sept 2014-May 2016

Course: BEng (Hons) in Electronic Engineering

Subjects included:

Year 3: Analogue Control, Advanced Engineering Maths, Data Structures & Algorithms, Semiconductor Fundamentals,

Electromagnetic Fields & Waves, Telecommunications 3

College: Tunku Abdul Rahman University College, Malaysia Date: May 2011-Sept 2013

Course: Diploma in Technology (Electronic Engineering) CGPA: 3.4123 (Graduated with Merit)

Subjects included:

Year 2: Mathematics IV, V & VI, Electronic Instrumentation & Communications, Electrical Technology & Circuits,

Microprocessors, Engineering Mechanics, Embedded Systems, Design & Application, C++ Programming,

Industrial Control & Automation.

Year 1: Mathematics I, II & III, Engineering Science I&II, Basic Electronics, Principles of Electrical & Electronics

Engineering, Digital Electronics, Analogue Electronics, Engineering Drawing and CADD, English Language.

Mini Project: Password Door Lock System It was a system that using theory of electromagnet to lock the door (based microcontroller). The user needs to enter a correct password to access it.

Second Level School: SMJK Chio Min, Kulim, Kedah, Malaysia Date: Jan 2006-Oct 2010 Leaving Certificate: SPM with 7A & 3B including Chemistry, Physics, Biology, Mathematics, Chinese and English 1119 (GCE-O) 3B

WORK EXPERIENCE Name: UWC Electric (M) Sdn. Bhd, Simpang Ampat, Penang, Malaysia Date: Jan 2013-April 2013 Role or Position: Internship Technical Assistant Responsibilities / Duties:

Visual and functional checked for products. Maintained, analysed, and repaired faulty circuit board and equipment. Evaluated and verified products.

Skills gained: Great time management skills; prioritize main task as well. Developed problem-solving and technical skills. Experience the important of teamwork and interpersonal skills.

Name: Tua Pui Hiang Restaurant, Kulim, Kedah, Malaysia Date: Sept 2013-Aug 2014 Role or Position: Waiter Responsibilities / Duties:

Presented food menus to patrons. Provided guests with good services and information. Delivered food and beverage orders to kitchen staff.

mailto:[email protected]

Work Placement CV – BEng (Hons) in Electronic Engineering (WD086)

http://www.wit.ie/wd086

Ensured order delivery to the table in a timely manner. Clean up dishes and glasses from the table. Fulfilled customer’s requirement when they requested.

Skills gained:

Good customer service; friendly and kindness to serve guest. Effective communication skills with guests and staff. Great attention to details. High degree of personal cleanliness Understanding and dealing with stressful situations.

Name: UYang Smartkids Learning Centre, Bukit Mertajam, Penang, Malaysia Date: Jan 2011-Aug 2014 Role or Position: Taekwon-Do Instructor Responsibilities/ Duties:

Conducted lesson of Traditional Taekwon-Do. Monitored and observed students, and provided feedback for students on their progress. Managed students to grading examination, competition and reality self-defence. Instructed Traditional Taekwon-Do’s spirit and martial virtue to students. Inspected mental and ethical discipline of each student.

Skills gained:

Knowledge and ability in martial arts discipline. Self-confidence; speak and demonstrate in front of an audience. Perseverance and patience; teach students of vastly differing physical ability. Good organisational skills; responsible in running own business. Enthusiasm toward martial arts; inspire confidence and motivate students. Admirable fitness; initiative to exercise regularly in both aerobic and anaerobic exercise.

Computer Skills: Windows 7 Operating System C++ Programming, Visual Basic, Microsoft

Word, Excel & Powerpoint, Internet

Language Skills: Fluent in Mandarin, Malay, & English

Interests and Achievements Taekwon-Do Football Awarded Black Belt 1st Degree of Malaysian

Global Taekwon-Do Federation. President of Taekwon-Do Society in secondary

school (2009-2010). Organised “Will Taekwon-Do” Tournament

2011. Won bronze medal of Penang State Tournament

last year (open category). Led members and students to tournament and

demonstration. Attended training class frequently.

Member of secondary school football club. Won Champion of football team 2010 of

school competition. Awarded Man of the Competition 2010. Enjoyed football and futsal during leisure

time with teammates.

REFEREES O Hanlon, Fergal Lecturer in BEng Electronic Studies Waterford Institute of Technology Tel: +353 5130 2647 Email: [email protected]

Appendix IV

Product Details and Specification

Measurement Technology for Photovoltaics

Software Version: 1.11

Photovoltaic Measurement System

PVMS Datalogger User Manual

August 2012

© 2012, Egnitec 5

5.3 PVMS Measurement Units This section displays details of any PVMS monitoring units which have been loaded. Each PVMS unit loaded into the datalogger will be displayed in a line on the grid, allowing its current operat-ing status and mode to be observed, as well as the last power measurement and its timestamp.

New Unit A dialog box will be displayed which will allow the user to select from a number of avail-able COM ports. Once selected the program will attempt to connect to the PVMS unit and will load and display details of this unit in the PVMS Unit Details dialog box.

Load Unit This allows details of a PVMS unit to be loaded into the datalogger.

Save Unit This allows details of a PVMS unit to be saved.

Remove Unit This allows the selected unit to be removed from the datalogger.

Unit Details This will load a dialog box which displays details about the PVMS unit. The user is able to change some of the unit’s parameters, including Unit Name (MAX 8 characters) and the number of points in the IV curve. If either Unit Name or IV Curve Points are changed on the dialog box then the user will be given the option of updating these values on the unit’s EEPROM when the dialog box is closed. Otherwise these changes will not be saved. If the EEPROM is updated, check that the update was successful by clicking on “Unit Details” again. The details of the Module under test and the load resistance are also entered on this dia-log box. These details are stored in the PVMS unit file on the PC. If any changes are made these must be saved manually (click on “Save Unit” after this dialog box has closed).

Autoload Units This allows the user to select a folder and load all of the PVMS units which have been stored there (file extension *.pvu).

6. Driver Installation. The RS422-USB interface cable is based on the FTDI USB-Serial chipset and suitable drivers must be in-stalled. Please refer to www.ftdichip.com for further details. Connect each USB-RS422 cable into the PC. The

cable does not have to be connected to the PVMS unit for the drivers to be installed. On Windows Vista and Windows 7 the

drivers software will be automatically downloaded and installed.

On older versions of Windows the drivers will need to be installed manually. You will be prompted to install the FTDI driv-ers if they have not already been in-stalled. The drivers can be downloaded from http://www.ftdichip.com/Drivers/VCP.htm.

Two drivers will be installed for each unit: a USB Serial Port (COMxx) and a USB Serial Converter.

Each cable will be assigned a unique COM port number (e.g. “COM31”).The next time the cable is plugged in it will be recognised and assigned the same COM port number.

To check that installation was successful or if there are any problems it is possible to view the device in Device Manager (under Control Panel). Under Ports (COM & LPT) there will be a

USB Serial Port with a COM port number assigned to it for each cable that is con-nected to the PC (by default unconnected devices are not shown).

7. Datalogger Output Files The measurement data is output from the datalogger and goes into a set of four files per PVMS Unit: Logfile: this file stores extra information for each unit. <Campaign>_<Unit Name>_LogFile_<yyyy_mm_dd>.txt (e.g. England_UK0010_logFile_2012_05_31.txt)

MPP Data: this file holds each set of MPP measure-ments (current, voltage, 2x module temperatures) as well as an indicator of system operating status. <Campaign>_<Unit Name>_MPPData_<yyyy_mm_dd>.csv (e.g. England_UK0010_MPPData_2012_05_31.txt)

IV Main: this file holds one record for each IV curve. <Campaign>_<Unit Name>_IVMain_<yyyy_mm_dd>.csv (e.g. England_UK0010_IVMain_2012_05_31.txt)

Datalogger Settings, Driver Installation & Datalogger Output Files

http://www.ftdichip.com/Support/Documents/InstallGuides.htm

http://www.ftdichip.com/Drivers/VCP.htm

http://www.ftdichip.com/Drivers/VCP.htm

© 2012, Egnitec 6

Datalogger Output Files

IV Data: this file holds each of the current-voltage points on the curve as a separate record. <Campaign>_<Unit Name>_IVData_<yyyy_mm_dd>.csv (e.g. England_UK0010_IVData_2012_05_31.txt)

The CSV files can be opened in Excel or a text editor or can be loaded into tables in a database (e.g. MySQL). If the Daily File option is selected on the datalogger the files will be created with the filenames as shown above and a new set of files will be created each and every day. If Daily File is not selected the data will be logged into the same set of files. In this instance the filenames will not include the date (e.g. “England_UK0010_IVMain.csv”).

7.1 CSV Header Records The CSV files each have a set of header records which hold important information regarding the source of the files: Campaign: the datalogging campaign name. Location: the datalogging location name. User: the Windows username from the PC. ObservationType: identifies which type of

measurement the file contains (either “MPPT” or “I-V Curve”).

ObservationName: identifies the data held in that column.

ObjectModel: holds the Module Model Number (from PVMS Unit Details form).

ObjectSerialNo: holds the Module Serial Num-ber (from PVMS Unit Details form)

SensorModel: always “built-in transducer” SensorSerialNo: always “N/A” DataAcquisitionHardwareModel: the model

number of the PVMS measurement unit (e.g. PVMS_250/80/12).

DataAcquisitionHardwareChannel: always “1” DataAcquisitionHardwareSerial: the serial

number of the PVMS unit (e.g. “006/0010”)

7.2 CSV Data Records After the header records there will be the data. Date & Timestamp: The first column of every data record is always a date & timestamp (dd-mm-yyyy hh:mm:ss format). The rest of the columns differ depending on the file: MPP Data: Impp: Current measurement (see note *). Vmpp: Voltage measurement (see note *). Module_temperature1: PT100 temperature

from sensor 1 (see note **).

Module_temperature2: PT100 temperature from sensor 2 (see note **).

Err: the current operating status of the unit is reported as a number: - 0 MPPT Locked 1 MPPT Scan 2 No PV/Low Light (see note ***) 3 Open Circuit 4 Initialising 5 Remote Shutdown 6 IV Trace Internal 7 IV Trace External 8 Overvoltage Fault 9 Calibration 10 Short Circuit Anything apart from 0, 2, 3 or 10 indicates that the unit is not working as expected and the val-ues should be treated as unreliable.

IV Main: Each IV curve has a single record in this file. Impp: MPP current (taken from curve) Vmpp: MPP voltage (taken from curve) Isc: short circuit current Voc: open circuit voltage Module_temperature1 (see note **) Module_temperature2 (see note **) IV_Sweep_EndTime: indicates when the IV

curve sweep finished. No_of_Points: the number of points that were

measured for this particular curve. IV Data: Each IV curve consists of a number of records with the same date & timestamp (matching the date & timestamp in the IV Main file). SweepPoint: the Point No (starting at 0) I: current value V: voltage value Notes: * Impp and Vmpp in the MPP Data file will hold the current and voltage reading taken at that specific time. The analysis of these needs to take into account the operating status of the unit indicated by Err. This will indicate which operating mode the unit is work-ing in or if any error condition exists. ** A value of –99 indicates that no PT100 sensor is present on that channel. *** The unit has determined that the light levels are very low or that no PV panel is connected.

Appendix V

Industry Supervisor’s Report

Student Industrial Placement Guide – WIT BEng (Hons) Electronic Engineering – 2014/15

20

BEng (Hons) Electronic Engineering - WIT Industry Supervisor’s Report

Student

Company

Supervisor

Location

Supervisor’s Assessment of the Student

Maximum Score Actual Score

Technical Competence

10

Ability to Communicate

10

Enthusiasm

10

TOTAL

30

General Comments about the Student and the Placement Programme

Signed: _______________________ Date:________________

Appendix VI

WIT Placement Tutor’s report of

Placement Visit


17

BEng (Honours) Electronic Engineering - WIT INDUSTRIAL PLACEMENT VISIT WIT Placement Tutor’s Report (Page 1 of 2)

Student Company Date of Visit Location

1. General Review of the organisation (Note: This normally involves a tour of the works on the site and/or office and the student should demonstrate his /her knowledge of the work in progress)

2. Review of Documentation

Status Comments

Monthly Reports

Placement Diary

Photos/Acetates

3. Difficulties with Placement? (Note: This may include discussion of salary, working hours/conditions, accommodation, health, relationship with Industrial Supervisor/co-workers, type/range of duties, etc.)


18

BEng (Hons) Electronic Engineering - WIT INDUSTRIAL PLACEMENT VISIT WIT Placement Tutor’s Report (Page 2 of 2) 4. Academic Review (a) Semester 5 Results (b) Final Project – Review of Addendum Reports to date and actions proposed 5. Industrial Supervisor’s (initial) Appraisal of Student (Note: The College Supervisor should meet with the Industrial Supervisor to discuss the student’s performance and the WIT placement programme in general) Name of Industrial Supervisor: Position/Job Title: 6. Assessment of Student during Placement Visit

Maximum Score

Actual Score

Attitude/Enthusiasm

15

Technical Competence

15

Communication Ability

10

TOTAL

40

Signed: __________________________