Mechanical Engineering ETDs

Publication Date

Spring 5-16-2026

Abstract

This dissertation describes research to develop and apply multi-physics simulation capabilities using finite element methods to analyze photovoltaic module damage mechanisms. Analyses of full-scale solar modules under mechanical load are presented, including experimental validation against measurements of external deflection and internal strain. Module damage by solar cell breakage and interconnection fatigue are discussed, and the applicability of simplifying analyses using mathematical plate theory is assessed. Detailed sub-module component models undergoing thermal-mechanical stressors are also presented, to identify the design features and materials most influential to stress generation and to assess the representativeness of using sub-module assemblies in accelerated testing. Finally, a coupled electrical simulation capability is introduced, to enable direct prediction of electrical output from a thermomechanical simulation of damaged cells. This work seeks to develop, verify, and apply multi-physics simulation workflows to better explain and predict the effect of observed and evolving photovoltaic module degradation modes.

Keywords

photovoltaic module, degradation, finite element modeling

Degree Name

Mechanical Engineering

Level of Degree

Doctoral

Department Name

Mechanical Engineering

First Committee Member (Chair)

Tariq Khraishi

Second Committee Member

Yu-Lin Shen

Third Committee Member

Rafiqul Tarefder

Fourth Committee Member

Scott Roberts

Document Type

Dissertation

Language

English

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