Technical Assessment - Structural & Mechanical
Design Engineer
Part 1: Design Analysis Challenge
Scenario A: Single-Axis Tracker Design
You are given the following requirements for a single-axis tracker:
- Module configuration: 2 rows × 60 modules (2m × 1m each)
- Wind speed requirement: 160 km/h (survival)
- Ground clearance: Minimum 0.5m at maximum tilt
- Soil condition: Medium dense sand
- Seismic zone: Zone 3
Deliverables:
1. Preliminary structural design concept
- Key components and materials
- Critical connection details
- Foundation concept
- Drive system selection
2. Analysis Overview
- Loading calculations
- Critical failure modes
- Safety factors
- Cost optimization opportunities
Scenario B: Structural Optimization Problem
Given a dual-axis tracker experiencing excessive deflection during operation:
1. Analyze potential causes
2. Propose design improvements
3. Provide calculation methodology
4. Consider manufacturing and cost implications
Part 2: Technical Problem Solving
Choose TWO of the following challenges:
Challenge A: Wind Load Analysis
- Analyze wind load effects on a tracker array
- Consider wake effects and edge conditions
- Propose mitigation strategies
- Include calculations and assumptions
Challenge B: Material Selection
- Compare material options for main structural components
- Consider environmental factors
- Analyze cost vs. performance
- Include corrosion protection strategy
Challenge C: Drive System Design
- Design a reliable actuation system
- Calculate required torque and forces
- Select appropriate components
- Include maintenance considerations
Challenge D: Foundation Design
- Develop foundation solutions for various soil conditions
- Include calculation methodology
- Consider installation efficiency
- Provide cost comparison
Part 3: Manufacturing & Implementation
Choose ONE scenario:
1. Cost Reduction Initiative
- Identify areas for cost optimization
- Maintain structural integrity
- Consider manufacturing processes
- Quantify potential savings
2. Installation Optimization
- Improve installation efficiency
- Reduce field assembly time
- Maintain quality control
- Consider tooling requirements
Evaluation Criteria
- Technical Analysis (30%)
● Calculation accuracy
● Design methodology
● Standards compliance
● Safety considerations
- Innovation & Problem Solving (25%)
● Creative solutions
● Practical approach
● Cost consciousness
● Optimization strategies
- Documentation & Communication (25%)
● Clear presentation
● Technical drawings
● Specification quality
● Design rationale
- Manufacturing & Implementation (20%)
● Fabrication consideration
● Assembly efficiency
● Cost effectiveness
● Maintenance planning
Submission Requirements
1. Technical Report
- Design calculations
- Analysis methodology
- Material specifications
- Cost estimates
2. Design Documentation
- Concept drawings
- Critical details
- Assembly sequences
- Manufacturing considerations
3. Presentation
- Design overview
- Key decisions
- Technical justifications
- Implementation strategy