Development Of Self-Powered Dual-Axis Solar Tracking System

Chan, Zhi Hao (2013) Development Of Self-Powered Dual-Axis Solar Tracking System. Project Report. UTeM, Melaka, Malaysia. (Submitted)

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Abstract

Solar energy is the most readily available energy available on earth. The energy of the sun is used since ancient times. With fast growing environmental concerns over the climate change risks associated with power generation with non-renewable energy, solar power has been the best answer over the decades. However, the output power of the solar cell panel is highly affected by the sunlight incident angle. By tracking the solar panel to the sun, it can always be pointing at the optimum angle to harvest the maximum solar energy throughout a day or a year. In this project, a new method of solar tracking is presented. The sun movements are studied to design the prototype of sensor and the solar tracker. By using arrangement of six (6) Photodiode and one (1) solid cylinder, a prototype sun-pointing sensor is designed. The sensor works by determining the location of solid cylinder’s shade and tracker would track the sun position in opposite direction. The dual-axis mechanism of the tracker would enable the system to track based on the sun azimuth and altitude. Two DC motors with worm gear are used as actuators; first motor rotates at x-axis (elevation) while second motor rotates at z-axis (azimuth). Also, a potentiometer is also used to read the solar panel elevation position. The solar energy harvested is then stored in a Lithium Polymer (Li-Po) battery. The method is discussed here for an automatic operation of the system which includes an intelligent tracking method, self-sufficient power supply; using microcontroller and active tracker. Moreover the prototype is designed to suit smaller system which is suitable for small domestic or household home-grown solar power plant; where it is affordable, automatous, required minimum maintenance and endplay. After the system is built, various experiments are done to test the functionality and sustainability of the tracker. The performance of the active solar tracker is also compared to the fixed solar panel to determine the improvement in solar energy harvesting capability. The tracker is able to follow the movement of sun throughout the day; while power is stored in the battery. There is also increase in efficiency of 28% when compared to fixed panel.

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