Jessy Irvine
& Kalin Sivolella
10-weeks
Fall 2024
Any inneficiencies in a PV technicians daily workflow are
felt exponentially as a result of the labor shortage.
So, what problems do solar workers encounter?
felt exponentially as a result of the labor shortage.
So, what problems do solar workers encounter?
WILL WHITE Solar Farm Subject Matter Expert “Fluke has a unique position in solar as one of the only
companies that has tools for practically every test”
Pain points:
in communication between solar workers
STEVEN ERRICKSON Regional Manager @ Pearce Renewables “Fluke Connect is great, as long as you don’t need to be far away”
Pain points:
What is Fluke Connect™ (FC) ?
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‘Fluke Connect™ is a software tool designed to digitally collect, store and view measurements from Fluke wireless test tools and condition monitoring sensors.’
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APP STORE REVIEWS
“Good hardware, lousy software”
“I want to record for an extended amount of time. The app will not let me do this. The whole purpose is that I do not have to babysit and monitor this process”
“We just want to view real time data remotely, for safety or accessibility”
“I want to record for an extended amount of time. The app will not let me do this. The whole purpose is that I do not have to babysit and monitor this process”
“We just want to view real time data remotely, for safety or accessibility”
KEY PROBLEMS
Disconnected
Confusing CMMS softwares
Confusing CMMS softwares
Workload Burden
Long, often tedious hours
Long, often tedious hours
Cluttered UI
Unnecessary FC features
Unnecessary FC features
01 Rugged
02 Portable
03 Sleek
Our initial concepts explored a wearable AI assistant, a tangible Fluke Connect device, and an interactive GIS system, with a focus on communication and data logging inefficiencies within PV technician work
We narrowed down to the idea of Fluke ‘bugs’— small, portable tools that enable technicians to safely take long-term and remote measurements
We then finalized the supplementary pieces of our design: the charging / carrying case and the redesigned Fluke Connect™
app with new remote measurement features.
What is it?
A wireless, Bluetooth / WIFI compatible tool, that magnetically attaches to nearby surfaces, recording and uploading data.
Why?
Some problems can’t be immediately diagnosed, especially within the solar industry. With Fluke Bugs, PV techs won’t have to surrender their phones for an extended amount of time when running long term measurements. They’ll have more time to attend to other issues on in the field, while also being able to see the data being taken in live time from their phones.
PORTABLE
The compact case is designed for a seamless fit in any pocket while keeping a low profile. It securely stores and charges four Bugs—two for the junior PV tech and two for the senior tech. Though small, each Bug can be easily handled, even with gloves on.
CONNECTED
Fluke Bugs bridge the gap between your preexisting tools and your phone, making remote measurements effortless. With both Wi-Fi and Bluetooth connectivity, they offer a powerful range and keep logging data— even when you’re off-site.
VERSATILE
Fluke Bugs easily attach to surfaces throughout a solar farm— whether it’s an inverter box, mounting structure, tool, or even a solar panel. The magnetic design keeps them securely in place, ensuring they stay within range of Fluke Connect compatible tools.
VIEW ANIMATION FOR FULL PROTOTYPE
Special thanks to my team—Jessy Irvine and Kalin Sivolella—
our professor, Meichun Liu, and the wonderful folks at Fluke.
our professor, Meichun Liu, and the wonderful folks at Fluke.