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STEM, Research, Durham University, Leadership & Research Laidlaw Scholars

Report: Surrogate Functions and Probabilistic Bisection for Solar Panel Orientation

This is my Laidlaw report on using surrogate function and optimisation methods for photovoltaic cells. I also do some work on the Probabilistic Bisection Algorithm, particularly convergence rates, the first time research has been done on this algorithm used on a practical problem.
Go to the profile of Charlie Matthew Davenport
Charlie Matthew Davenport
Laidlaw Scholar, Durham University
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Thank you to my supervisor, Prof. Christopher Marcotte, for their support through the project. It was really valuable to be able to talk through maths problems with them, and have guidance on direction through parts of the project I was less confident in. 

I've enjoyed this experience, it was a good way to blend my interests in renewable energy with simulation and computer science. It was a bit of a step outside my comfort zone at first, but by the end I felt a lot more confident. The feedback process at the end and amending small errors was really important. It helped me appreciate the importance of peer review in academia.

Go to the profile of Charlie Matthew Davenport
Charlie Matthew Davenport (He/Him)
Laidlaw Scholar, Durham University

Hi! My name's Charlie, I'm doing a research project on surrogate functions for solar panel optimisation on tall vertical facades. I'll be comparing optimisation methods between surrogate functions, particle swarm optimisation and genetic optimisation. 

I'm studying Engineering, but when I'm not working I am a part of DU Solarcar (looking forward to the European Solar Challenge 2026!), as well as going to church and running in my free time. I'm always up for a game of chess or a chat about science. I'm also learning French and Spanish in my free time. Fun fact: I'm also enrolled on a Welsh language course at Prifysgol Bangor!

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