SOLAR TRACKING SYSTEM

INTRODUCTION
Dual axis tracking systems A dual axis tracking system is a system that follows the sun in multiple angles ensuring that the sunbeam angle is 100% correct on the panel. By tracking the sun, the efficiency of the solar panels can be increased by 30-40%.

Tracking the sun from east in the morning to west in the evening will increase the efficiency of the solar panel by 20-62% The space requirement for a solar park is reduced, and they keep the same output The tracking system amortises itself within 4 years (on average)

How it increases efficiency?

When an object faces the sun directly, it receives more heat. There is a mathematical law associated with this, called Lambert's Cosine Law, which says that intensity of light falling on a plane is directly porportional to the cosine of the angle made by the direction of the source to the normal of the plane. When the angle is '0 degree' i.e. when sun is directly overhead, magnitude of the equation is maximum as "cos 0 = 1" It follows that if we somehow keep the panel aligned with the sun, we'll operate our solar panel on maximum light possible all the time.

How does it work?

Electronic 2-Axis Tracker. 2-axis means in addition to normal morning to evening movement, it also takes into account seasonal movement of the Sun i.e. north-south movement. To sense the position of Sun in the sky, two light sensors {called LDR} are used, in the following configuration. When the position of Sun shifts, one sensor comes in the shadow of the opaque object.. Now here, left side sensor's resistance increases and the right one remains the same. This change is detected by an Electronic Circuit which then moves the sensor board {here clockwise} so that once again both the sensors are equally exposed. This way, it corrects itself continuously. And the output from the circuit is used to control a Solar panel, using DC Motors.

WHY WE CHOOSE THIS PROJECT?

Producing electricity by using solar cells is a fast growing business. Solar energy is available in abundant and can fulfill our increasing energy requirements.

BLOCK DIAGRAM OF SOLAR TRACKING SYSTEM

LDR DOWNUP

Centralized power supply

LDR EAST WEST

Microcontroller

89S52

MOTOR UP DOWN

LIMIT SW MIN (UP DOWN)

MOTOR DRIVER

LIMIT SW MAX (UP DOWN)

LIMIT SW MIN (EAST WEST)

LIMIT SW MAX (EAST WEST) MOTOR EAST WEST

BLOCK DIAGRAM EXPLAINATION

Microcontroller used receives 6 inputs from LDR and LIMIT SWITCH. On the basis of programming done and the inputs received,microcontroller gives 2 output to dc motors. DC motors running at 60 RPM can rotate clockwise as well as anticlockwise. This rotation moves the panel in required direction which is limited and restricted by limit switch.

APPLLICATION
It can be used on street lights. It can be used in radar antennas. Solar tracking system can also be used in satellite communication.

PROBLEMS
Motor will require high power to run. Some times energy to move the panel is greater than energy generated.

THANK YOU