A Review on the Sun Tracking Mechanisms for Pv Strings

Abstract

This paper deals with a review on the solar trackers used for increasing the energetic efficiency of the photovoltaic (PV) strings. To begin with, the context from which the utility of the tracking mechanisms emerges is presented. The study continues with the systematization of the PV systems according to the structure that is oriented (i.e. the configuration in which the PV panels are disposed / arranged), presenting also the main advantages and disadvantages of the existing structures. Thus, it is retained as a solution for deepening the research that of the simultaneous orientation of the PV panels arranged in a string-like configuration. Afterwards, the study is focused on the main components that are taken into account in the design process of the tracking systems for PV strings, such as the tracking mode, the evaluation of the solar energy potential (involving the modelling of the solar radiation), the emplacement/disposing scheme of the panels in different array configurations, the mechanical and control devices of the solar trackers.